Karnataka is set to experience a statewide bandh on March 22, 2025, organized by pro-Kannada groups protesting an alleged assault on a bus conductor in Belagavi for not speaking Marathi. This protest comes amid rising linguistic tensions and broader concerns regarding the Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill, which proposes to divide the city into multiple administrative zones.
The bandh, scheduled to run from 6 AM to 6 PM, aims to mobilize support against the recent violence experienced by a Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus conductor, who was reportedly attacked last month by pro-Marathi groups. This incident has sparked outrage among Kannada activists and led to the formation of Kannada Okkuta, the umbrella organization advocating for the bandh.
Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has publicly rejected the call for a bandh, emphasizing the potential disruption it could cause, particularly for the SSLC (Class 10) students who are set to take their board exams on that day. "The bandh is not needed at this time. Instead of calling for a strike, they should have spoken to the government. It will affect students," Shivakumar said, stressing the importance of education and the continuity of daily life.
Adding to the complexities of this situation, the proposed Governance Bill has garnered criticism from various sectors, with many stating it could marginalize local communities and exacerbate job losses for Kannadigas, particularly in key industries. Shivakumar mentioned the government's initiative to launch a month-long water conservation campaign coinciding with World Water Day, which is also on March 22, and encouraged dialogue rather than disruption.
As the date of the bandh approaches, the response from various organizations remains mixed. While Kannada Okkuta leader Vatal Nagaraj has claimed that significant support for the bandh is expected, many key organizations are still undecided on their level of participation. Notably, factions of the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, under leaders like T.A. Narayana Gowda and Praveen Shetty, have opted against endorsing the bandh, resulting in speculation about its overall impact.
Not only are transport services like BMTC and KSRTC likely to be affected, but schools and colleges have also preemptively announced holidays, ensuring that students do not face undue stress during exam periods. The associations representing auto drivers and cab services have voiced their intent to support the bandh, with N. Ashok Kumar, Vice-President of the Ola Uber Drivers’ and Owners’ Association stating, "Our association members will not operate on Saturday," affirming a commitment to the cause.
However, there remains uncertainty regarding the extent to which the transport sector will honor this call, as major unions are still deliberating. For instance, the Karnataka State Hotel Association, represented by President G.K. Shetty, has pledged support "in principle" but assured that hotels will remain operational, as they are considered essential services. Mixed messages from various unions illustrate a state of indecision that could shape how effective the bandh will be on March 22.
In light of these ongoing discussions, the Karnataka government hopes to facilitate dialogue with Kannada organizations to dissuade them from proceeding with the bandh. Shivakumar stated, "We will make them understand that this is not the right course of action, as it will impact students whose exams have already begun. They cannot take the law into their own hands." His approach underscores the priority of maintaining normalcy and the government’s commitment to engaging with the community.
The debate surrounding the bandh illustrates the broader tensions within Karnataka regarding linguistic identity and local governance. As the situation develops in the lead-up to March 22, residents are advised to remain keenly aware of the proceedings, plan their activities accordingly, and support students heading into exams amid these tumultuous conditions.
Whether the bandh will achieve its intended goals of drawing attention to the grievances of Kannada speakers and influencing government policy remains uncertain. However, its repercussions on public life and local governance in Karnataka are expected to be significant. The weather, political dynamics, and community response will ultimately dictate the outcome of this contentious issue.
