Reason for the Protest
The Bharat Bandh on August 21, 2024, was
organized by various Dalit and Adivasi organizations in response to a recent
Supreme Court verdict regarding the sub-classification of Scheduled
Castes (SCs). The ruling allowed states to sub-categorize SCs for quota
benefits, effectively enabling the exclusion of the creamy layer from
reservations. Protesters believed this decision could undermine the protection
and representation of marginalized communities, leading to widespread
discontent.
Key Participants and Support
The bandh was spearheaded by the Bahujan Samaj
Party (BSP), which extended its support along with other Dalit and Adivasi
groups. Key political parties that backed the protest included the Jharkhand
Mukti Morcha (JMM), Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), and
Left parties. The protest was particularly significant in regions with
large Dalit and tribal populations, such as parts of Gujarat, Madhya
Pradesh, and Jharkhand.
Major Events and Impact
- Protests
and Demonstrations:
Demonstrations took place across several states, including Bihar,
Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Kerala. In Bihar, protestors
clashed with the police, leading to a lathi charge in Patna, while
other regions like Madhya Pradesh saw large rallies in tribal and
Dalit-dominated areas.
- Impact
on Daily Life: The
bandh led to the closure of markets, schools, and transport services
in affected areas, particularly in regions like Jharkhand, Gujarat, and
Madhya Pradesh. In contrast, states like Assam and Uttar Pradesh
saw minimal disruption, with normal life largely unaffected.
- Political
Reactions: Union
Minister BL Verma criticized the protestors, claiming they lacked
clear motives, while BJP leader Faggan Singh Kulaste accused the
opposition of politicizing the Supreme Court’s decision. On the other
hand, Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav expressed support
for the bandh, emphasizing the importance of public movements in
protecting reservations.
- Law
and Order: In
regions like Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat, security
was heightened, with police patrols, barricades, and drone surveillance
deployed to maintain order. Despite some incidents of violence, the bandh
was largely peaceful.
Conclusion
The Bharat Bandh of August 21, 2024, was a
significant event reflecting the deep-seated concerns among marginalized
communities regarding their representation and rights. The involvement of major
political parties and the widespread participation across various states
highlighted the ongoing debate over reservation policies in India.
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