What is the ‘Bharat Bandh’ movement?

The ‘Bharat Bandh’ movement in India, organized by the Reservation Bachao Sangharsh Samiti, is a nationwide protest taking place today in response to a recent Supreme Court ruling.

The movement specifically opposes the court’s decision to allow states to create sub-categories within Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) for reservation purposes, a move perceived by many as threatening to the existing reservation system.

On August 1, 2024, the Supreme Court issued a ruling that permits states to sub-categorize SCs and STs to prioritize those who are most in need of reservations. This decision has sparked controversy, as critics argue that it undermines the constitutional rights of these marginalized groups. The Bharat Bandh seeks to challenge this ruling and advocate for the preservation of the current reservation system, asserting that the decision could negatively impact SCs and STs.

The protest has garnered support from several political parties and organizations including Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and Samajwadi Party.

The National Confederation of Dalit and Adivasi Organisations (NACDAOR) is leading the call for the Bandh, demanding rejection of the Supreme Court ruling, Implementation of a new reservation law protected by inclusion in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution, release of caste-based data, filling backlog vacancies and  50% SC/ST/OBC representation in the judiciary.

Schools and coaching institutes in Rajasthan, including Jaipur, Dausa, Sawai Madhopur, Deeg, and Bharatpur will remain closed. There may be interruptions to public transportation and commercial activities, however, essential services will remain operational.

Authorities have issued high alerts, especially in sensitive areas like Western Uttar Pradesh, and have requested cooperation from market associations and bandh organizers to minimize disruptions.