Bharat Bandh on August 21: Bahujan Samaj Party UP state president Vishwanath Pal said that as per Mayawati’s orders, all BSP workers will remain disciplined and submit a memorandum to the President during the Bharat Bandh on 21 August 2024. Do not engage in any kind of disturbance or vandalism. We are all disciplined soldiers of Baba Saheb
Bharat Bandh on August 21: A ‘Bharat Bandh’ has been announced tomorrow i.e. Wednesday (August 21) regarding the Supreme Court’s decision on SC-ST reservation. The Reservation Bachao Sangharsh Samiti has announced a Bharat Bandh on August 21 in protest against the Supreme Court’s decision on SC/ST reservation. SC/ST groups in Rajasthan have supported the bandh. According to a report by The Times of India (TOI), the police have been asked to increase deployment in all districts to avoid any tension. DGP UR Sahu also said that instructions have also been given to the SP to ensure law and order situation in connection with the ‘Bharat Bandh’.
The DGP told the newspaper, “We have asked our officers to hold meetings with the groups calling for the bandh as well as market associations, so that better cooperation can be facilitated.” Apart from Rajasthan, all the workers of Mayawati’s party BSP will participate in large numbers in a disciplined manner in the Bharat Bandh to be held on August 21 in Uttar Pradesh.
Why was ‘Bharat Bandh’ announced?
According to several reports, the Supreme Court’s decision has allowed states to create sub-categories within the SC and ST groups. The order said, “Those who really need it should get priority in reservation.” The decision has sparked widespread debate. Reports say that the main objective of the Bharat Bandh is to challenge the Supreme Court’s decision on reservation and demand its reversal.
Tight security arrangements
In view of the possibility of violence during the ‘Bharat Bandh’, top police officials held a meeting for preparation through video conferencing. According to the report, all divisional commissioners, district magistrates and senior police officials attended the meeting.
Western Uttar Pradesh has been deemed particularly sensitive, with police on high alert. Authorities are taking extensive measures to ensure public safety during protests. Public transport and private offices are usually closed on such days, but emergency services such as ambulances remain operational.
