Bharat Bandh today; What is close and what is open today?

The Reservation Bachao Sangharsh Samiti announced Bharat Bandh on Wednesday. The action is a result of the Supreme Court’s ruling on SC/ST reservations and many SC/ST groups in Rajasthan support the Bandh. 

Police have been instructed to maintain law and order in the states and restrain any untoward situation across the country. Superintendents of Police (SPs) were instructed to ensure a law and order situation during the protest.

The Bahujan Samaj Party has also extended support for the bandh and the party has asked small and big workers to be a part of ‘Bharat Bandh’.

Why Bharat Bandh on August 21?

Several groups are not happy with the Supreme Court’s recent ruling that allows states to create sub-categories with SC and SC groups. The apex court stressed that those who need should receive priority in reservation.

The decision faced criticism from several social and political organizations arguing that it undermines reservation principles. The Bandh across the country is organized against of this decision demanding its reversal.

Bharat Bandh: Will markets be closed?

The Reservation Bachao Sangharsh Samiti requested business organizations to keep markets shut throughout the long-day protest. However, it is unclear if markets will remain closed or if the shutdown will impact the whole country as market committees haven’t shared any update on it.

The nationwide protest might disrupt public transport and private offices, however, emergency services, including ambulances, will remain operational.

Bharat Bandh: Will schools and colleges remain shut?

Many reports claim that the government offices, schools, colleges, and petrol pumps will function properly despite the call for Bharat Bandh. Moreover, emergency services such as medical, drinking water, public transport, rail services, and electricity services will remain open.

Are banks closed Today, August 21, 2024?

According to reports, banks will remain operational today, August 21, 2024, despite Bharat Bandh across the country. 

Bharat Bandh: What will remain open?

Here are the services that will remain operational today, August 21, 2024:

1. Ambulance services
2. Emergency services
3. Hospitals and medical services
4. Police services
5. Pharmacies

Bharat Bandh 2024: Security measures 

Given the possibility of violence during the bandh, top police officials held a virtual meeting to analyze the preparation. All divisional commissioners, district magistrates, and senior police officers were present at the meeting.

Western Uttar Pradesh has been considered a sensitive area, and the police have been put on high alert there. Extensive steps are to be taken by the police officials to ensure public safety throughout the protest. 

On this day, generally, public transport and private offices remain shut. However, emergency services such as ambulances would remain operational.