Bharat Bandh against SC's reservation order evokes mixed response

Most effective in Bihar, Jhrakhand, tribal belts

A nationwide strike called by various Dalit and Adivasi (tribal) organisations against a recent Supreme Court verdict evoked a mixed response across India, significantly disrupting normal life in the states of Bihar and Jharkhand while having a more muted impact in other regions.

The ‘Bharat Bandh’ on Wednesday was organised to protest the Supreme Court’s August 1 order, which upheld the power of states to sub-classify the Scheduled Castes (SCs) for the purpose of granting quotas. The demonstrators fear this move will undermine the fundamental principles of reservation.

Around 21 Dalit and Adivasi groups had given the call for the nationwide shutdown, seeking to draw attention to their concerns over the Apex Court’s ruling. The strike had the maximum impact in the tribal-dominated states of Bihar and Jharkhand.

In Bihar, protesters blocked rail and road traffic in several districts, leading to the disruption of train services and vehicular movement. Police had to resort to lathi charges and use of water cannons to disperse the agitating crowds at various locations.