New Delhi: Dalit and Adivasi organisations have called for a ‘Bharat Bandh’ on Wednesday over their demand for stronger representation and protection for marginalised communities. The National Confede
New Delhi: Dalit and Adivasi organisations have called for a ‘Bharat Bandh’ on Wednesday over their demand for stronger representation and protection for marginalised communities. The National Confederation of Dalit and Adivasi Organisations (NACDAOR) has released a list of demands, including justice and equity for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs). With the backing of various SC/ST groups across Rajasthan, the bandh is anticipated to be widely supported, potentially leading to the closure of schools and other educational institutions to ensure the safety of students. Authorities have been directed to implement strict measures to uphold law and order during the protest.
Dalit, Adivasi bodies call for ‘Bharat Bandh’ Today: Here’s Why?
The NACDAOR has opposed a recent Supreme Court judgment by a seven-judge bench, arguing that it undermines the earlier ruling of a nine-judge bench in the landmark Indira Sawhney case, which set the foundation for reservations in India.
In response to potential unrest, police forces have heightened their presence across multiple districts. A high-level video conference meeting brought together divisional commissioners, district magistrates, and senior police officials.
The protest organizers have called on all businesses to close in support of the bandh, though market committees have not yet confirmed whether they will comply. The overall impact of the bandh on markets nationwide remains uncertain. While public transport and private sector operations might face disruptions, essential services like ambulances will continue to operate. According to media reports, government offices, banks, schools, colleges, and petrol stations are likely to remain open despite the Bharat Bandh call. Furthermore, essential services such as healthcare, water supply, public transport, railways, and electricity are likely to operate as usual.
As per the news agency PTI report, the National Confederation of Dalit and Adivasi Organisations (NACDAOR) has urged the government to reject this judgment, arguing it threatens the constitutional rights of SCs and STs. The organisation is also calling for the enactment of a new Act of Parliament on reservations for SCs, STs, and OBCs, which would be protected by inclusion in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution.