A nationwide strike, known as “Bharat Bandh,” is taking place today, August 21, in response to a recent Supreme Court ruling on SC/ST reservations. The protest, organized by the Reservation Bachao Sangharsh Samiti and supported by SC/ST groups, is expected to have significant participation, particularly in Rajasthan. Due to safety concerns, schools and other educational institutions in the state may remain closed.
Law enforcement authorities have been instructed to take necessary measures to maintain order during the bandh.
Updates on Bharat Bandh 2024
Protest organizers have called for the closure of all business establishments today. Although business associations have not officially confirmed their participation, uncertainty remains about the potential impact of the bandh nationwide.
Will Schools Remain Closed Today?
According to media reports, government offices, banks, schools, colleges, and petrol stations are expected to remain open despite the bandh. Essential services, including healthcare, water supply, public transportation, railways, and electricity, are also likely to continue operations.
Background on the Supreme Court Ruling
Earlier this month, the Supreme Court ruled that states must identify the ‘creamy layer’ within Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) and exclude them from receiving quota benefits. The Court also upheld the permissibility of sub-classification within SC/ST reservations, overturning a previous ruling that SC/STs form “homogeneous classes” and cannot be sub-classified. The ‘creamy layer’ refers to individuals within these reserved categories who are economically and socially advanced.
