Karnataka Bandh on March 22: Authorities in Karnataka have heightened security measures ahead of the 12-hour statewide bandh on March 22, called by pro-Kannada groups in response to the alleged assault on a KSRTC bus conductor in Belagavi last month over language issues. To maintain law and order, officials have deployed home guards and City Armed Reserve personnel across multiple districts.
Additional police forces will be stationed at key locations to ensure the bandh remains peaceful and does not disrupt public life. Senior officers will closely monitor the situation on the ground, overseeing security operations to prevent any untoward incidents.
Karnataka Bandh on March 22: Timings
The shutdown, led by Kannada Okkoota, will be observed from 6 AM to 6 PM on Saturday, March 22.
Why is Karnataka observing a bandh?
The protest stems from an incident in February, where a KSRTC bus conductor was allegedly attacked by pro-Marathi groups in Belagavi for not speaking Marathi. This has further escalated linguistic tensions in the region.
Will Bengaluru be affected by Karnataka bandh?
Yes, Bengaluru will witness a complete shutdown on March 22, with potential disruptions in public services throughout the day.
What are the demands of Karnataka bandh organisers?
- Ban on Marathi groups such as Maharashtra Ekikaran Samiti (MES) in Karnataka.
- Protection of Kannada-speaking communities, especially in border areas like Belagavi.
- Opposition to Bengaluru’s administrative division, citing concerns over its impact on Kannada culture.
Will Karnataka bandh impact transport and other services?
Bus services in Karnataka today
KSRTC and BMTC employees have extended support to the bandh, which may lead to statewide disruptions in bus services. However, no official confirmation has been issued yet.
Karnataka schools, colleges and educational institutions open or not?
There is no official statement on whether educational institutions will remain closed, raising concerns among students, especially those appearing for exams.
Are banks open today in Karnataka?
Banks are already closed nationwide on the fourth Saturday of every month. Additionally, the RBI has declared March 22 a bank holiday in Patna for Bihar Diwas. However, there is no confirmation on additional closures due to the bandh.
Will cab and auto services be affected in Karnataka today?
The Ola-Uber Owners and Drivers Association, along with auto-rickshaw unions, have extended their support to the bandh, potentially impacting taxi and auto services.
Karnataka bandh to impact hotels and film industry?
Representatives from both sectors have expressed support, though the extent of disruptions remains unclear.
What did the government say?
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar stated on Thursday that the state government does not support the bandh and will engage with pro-Kannada organisations to explain that it is not the appropriate course of action.
The Maharashtra-Karnataka border dispute has fueled linguistic tensions, particularly in Belagavi, for decades. Following Maharashtra’s formation on May 1, 1960, the state laid claim to 865 villages, including Belagavi (formerly Belgaon), Karwar, and Nippani, seeking their merger. However, Karnataka has firmly opposed these demands, resulting in ongoing conflicts over language and territorial identity.