Pro-Kannada organisations have called for a statewide bandh in Karnataka on March 22. This protest responds to the Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill and a recent incident in Belagavi. In that event, a Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC) bus conductor was attacked for not speaking in Marathi.
Educational institutions:
The bandh coincides with the exam season. Secondary School Leaving Certificate (SSLC) exams start on March 21, but none are scheduled for Saturday, March 22. Some schools have exams for lower classes that day. The Associated Managements of Private Unaided Schools in Karnataka confirmed these exams will proceed as planned. They expressed concerns that cancelling or postponing exams could disrupt students’ schedules.
Transportation:
Transport disruptions are likely. Cab drivers linked to the Ola Uber Drivers’ and Owners’ Association have pledged full support for the bandh, meaning no cabs will operate. Additionally, many of Bengaluru’s two lakh autorickshaws may not run, making travel difficult for daily commuters. The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has not confirmed whether buses will operate. Limited public transport could make it challenging for students and workers to commute safely.
Public services:
Government offices, banks, and other public institutions are expected to close during the bandh. Residents should plan accordingly to avoid inconvenience.
Essential services:
Hospitals, medical stores, and emergency services will remain operational. However, accessing these services might be challenging due to transport disruptions.
Public sentiment:
The bandh has sparked mixed reactions. Some support the protest to uphold regional pride and language rights. Others express concern over the timing during exam season and potential disruptions to daily life.
