Karnataka Bandh on August 13: Bengaluru Braces for Protests
Bengaluru, August 12 – As tensions escalate in the Cauvery water-sharing row between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, the state has called for a statewide bandh on August 13. The protest, which will be observed from 6 am to 6 pm, is expected to see widespread participation from Kannada organisations, farmers, and citizens.
Cauvery Water Dispute: The Spark that Ignited the Fire
The Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) has directed Karnataka to release 12,000 cusecs of water every day to Tamil Nadu for 15 days starting August 12. This order has sparked outrage among Kannada organisations, who claim that it is a threat to the state’s water security. Vatal Nagaraj, convener of the Kannada Chalavali Vatal Paksha, has vowed to observe the bandh “at any cost” and has appealed to citizens to support the strike.
Farmers’ Protest: A Growing Concern
The Mandya District Farmers’ Welfare Protection Committee has announced a protest near the Visvesvaraya statue in Mandya on Wednesday, appealing to farmers, Kannada organisations, workers, women, and other citizens to join the demonstrations. A farmer leader has described the CWMA’s direction as a threat to Karnataka’s water security and has urged the government not to release water under any circumstances.
Will Bengaluru Schools Remain Open?
Despite the bandh, schools in Karnataka are expected to function normally on August 13. The Karnataka Associated Managements of Schools (KAMS) had initially called for schools to remain closed but later withdrew the appeal, citing the potential impact on the academic schedule. However, KAMS has extended moral support to the bandh and has asked school managements, teachers, and non-teaching staff to wear black ribbons or black strips in solidarity.
Essential Services to Remain Operational
Banks, hospitals, pharmacies, public transport, and other essential services are expected to remain operational during the statewide bandh. This means that citizens can continue to access basic services without disruption. However, the situation may be different for private companies, which may allow employees to work from home if transport or safety issues arise.
IT Companies and Start-ups on High Alert
Many IT companies, start-ups, and corporate offices in Bengaluru are closely monitoring the situation and may take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their employees. Delivery and logistics services, particularly app-based services, may also face delays if protests block key roads or areas of the city.
Karnataka CM’s Response
Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has said that the state has a responsibility to protect its farmers while also complying with court orders. He has assured that the government will assess the situation before deciding its next course of action. As the state prepares for the bandh, citizens are advised to remain calm and exercise caution while going about their daily activities.