Reservation Bachao Sangharsh Samiti protests against the recent Supreme Court ruling on SC/ST reservations
Reservation Bachao Sangharsh Samiti called a nationwide strike today. India observes a Bharat Bandh on August 21, 2024. The strike was called in response to the Supreme Court’s latest judgment for the sub-classification of Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) issued on August 21, 2024. The protest was supported by SC/ST groups mainly from Rajasthan. The law enforcement of India is preparing to deal with the strike.
The Reason behind protests: Why the strike?
The controversy sparked when the Supreme Court ruled in favor of sub-categorization within SC/ST reservations stating, “Those who need it should get priority in reservation.” The court ruled that the states could prioritize reservations for subgroups within SC/STs that are more disadvantaged. The decision met with strong hostility. Many argue that it could dilute the benefits intended for SC/ST communities. Arguments have also been made that this ruling threatens the constitutional rights of SCs and STs.
Bharat Bandh 2024: The aftermath of the ruling
The Supreme Court ruling led to Reservation Bachao Sangharsh Samiti calling a nationwide strike today. The Bharat Bandh August 21 garnered support from various social and political organizations across the country. The protest was supported by SC/ST groups mainly from Rajasthan. The group of Dalit and Adivasi organizations, with the Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) groups in Rajasthan, expressed their strong support for the nationwide shutdown and protests. They have been particularly vocal, and their participation is expected to be significant. Several political leaders have also backed the protest and expressed their concern over the potential long-term implications of the Supreme Court’s ruling.
Bharat Bandh August 21: Preparations regarding this strike
Extensive security measures have been implemented across the country by the authorities in anticipation of possible discord. A meeting via video conference was coordinated by the senior police officials to ensure public safety. Law enforcement agencies across all districts have been instructed to increase their presence to ensure public safety and maintain order. U R Sahoo, the Director General of Police, in Rajasthan, has instructed district Superintendents of Police to maintain order and engage with local organizations. Biju George Joseph, the Police Commissioner in Jaipur has already initiated dialogue with groups supporting the strike.
Several political parties and social organizations backed the Bharat Bandh
The Bharat Bandh 2024 was backed by Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), the Rashtriya Janata Dal, and the Congress on Tuesday. On Wednesday, the Bahujan Samaj Party extended support to the day-long Bharat Bandh. Akhilesh Yadav, President of the Samajwadi Party also backed the strike stating that “public movements” put a check on “unbridled government”.
Are banks closed today?
Essential services like Government offices, banks, schools, and colleges will function as usual. Ambulances, hospitals, and medical facilities will continue to operate as well as essential medications will be available as pharmacies will stay open. Public transport and private offices will not function today.
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