Bengaluru: The upcoming statewide bandh in Karnataka, scheduled for March 22, 2025, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., has stirred significant attention and concern among residents as pro-Kannada organizations prepare for a massive shutdown in response to alleged injustices faced by the Kannada-speaking community. The bandh, announced by Kannada activist Vatal Nagaraj, comes as a direct reaction to an assault on a Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus conductor in Belagavi, reportedly attacked by individuals from Marathi groups.
The bandh aims to raise awareness about the ongoing tensions between Kannada and Marathi speakers in the border district of Belagavi. Vatal Nagaraj condemned the violent act, stating, "The Maharashtra Ekikaran Samiti (MES) should be banned, and the government must take action against those responsible for the injustice done to Kannadigas." Nagaraj has also emphasized the need for addressing several pending issues, including the development of North Karnataka and the resolution of the Mahadayi water dispute, while urging all vehicle drivers, including those who serve high-ranking officials, to show solidarity with the bandh.
In light of the bandh, uncertainties loom over various sectors, particularly education. March 22 falls just a day after the commencement of the SSLC exams, set to begin on March 21. While there are no SSLC exams scheduled for the bandh day, lower-class examinations are expected to take place, leading many schools in Karnataka to adopt a 'wait and watch' policy regarding their operational status during the bandh.
Many educational institutions are grappling with the dilemma of whether to hold classes or postpone exams. The Associated Managements of Private Unaided Schools in Karnataka have confirmed that their lower-class exams will proceed as planned, acknowledging that a cancellation would disrupt students' schedules. However, they are also mindful of potential transportation difficulties, as cab drivers and autorickshaw operators have pledged their participation in the bandh. Additionally, the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has yet to confirm the status of bus services for that day, which may impact students’ ability to travel safely to school.
Transportation issues are a significant concern as schools are preparing for a potential wave of students unable to reach their campuses. Vatal Nagaraj's call for participation has left many wondering how the bandh will affect their day-to-day activities. Residents and parents are advised to stay in touch with school authorities for up-to-date information regarding school operations. Some parents voiced their worries, wondering how they would ensure their children could reach school amidst anticipated disruptions in transport.
Schools and public transport are not the only sectors likely impacted by the bandh. Banks and government offices are also dealing with uncertainty over their operational plans. Currently, there is no official announcement confirming closures, leading many to speculate whether they will operate as usual. As the bandh approaches, some business owners are weighing their options on whether to comply with Nagaraj’s call for support, which could further complicate normal operations in the city.
Aside from education and transport concerns, the political dynamics behind the bandh play a significant role in the larger conversation around Karnataka's identity and rights. The pro-Kannada movement has garnered substantial support from various organizations united under the Kannada Okkoota umbrella. Agitation over perceived negligence from the state government regarding development projects, such as the Mekedatu project, serves as a focal point for the protestors. Nagaraj has articulated that the movement will persist until there are clear actions from the government addressing the community's grievances.
In the lead-up to March 22, the government is faced with the delicate task of balancing law enforcement against the protestors' right to demonstrate. Minister Ramalinga Reddy indicated that discussions would occur with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to assess the situation and determine an appropriate government response. As of current reports, there remains ambiguity surrounding any government position on the bandh, potentially influencing how authorities will manage the planned protests.
The complexities of Karnataka's linguistic landscape are evident in the reactions from the community and political leaders alike. As the pro-Kannada organizations move forward with their plans, there are questions about how effective this bandh will be in instigating change in a region already fraught with historical tensions between linguistic groups. Supporters view it as a necessary action to combat what they see as systemic injustices, while detractors worry about the practical implications of a day-long shutdown.
As the date approaches, it will be crucial to observe how the situation develops in Karnataka, particularly regarding the support from the communities directly affected and the government's stance on the demands being made by the pro-Kannada groups.
