Mumbai, August 21: A "Bharat Bandh," or a nationwide strike, has been called today, August 21, in response to a recent Supreme Court ruling on SC/ST reservations. The Reservation Bachao Sangharsh Samiti called for the Bharat Bandh, supported by SC/ST groups nationwide.

The bandh, which has the backing of several SC/ST groups, will likely have a large turnout. During the protest, law enforcement officials have been directed to take appropriate action to preserve order. Scroll down for more details of the Bharat Bandh on August 21. Bharat Bandh on August 21: All You Need To Know About Nation-Wide Hadtaal Called by Minority Organisations on Wednesday Over Supreme Court’s ‘Exclude Creamy Layer From SC, ST Reservations’ Ruling.

Is Today Bharat Bandh?

A call for Bharat Bandh was given in response to the Supreme Court's recent ruling regarding Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) reservations. The bandh, which has garnered significant support from SC/ST communities, is anticipated to witness extensive participation nationwide.

Who Has Called for Shutdown and Why?

On August 1, the Constitutional Bench of the Supreme Court decided to reserve Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. The Supreme Court said states can make Quotas within the Quota Judgment for reservation; state governments can make sub-categories for Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe categories. Bharat Bandh on August 21: From Schools to Offices and Banks, Know What Will Remain Open and Closed During Nationwide Shutdown.

In addition, the Supreme Court said that the principle of creamy layer applies to Scheduled Castes in the same way it applies to OBCs.

What Remains Open and Closed Today?

Despite the call for Bandh, all government offices, banks, schools, colleges, and petrol stations are expected to remain open. Additionally, essential services such as healthcare, water supply, public transportation, railways, and electricity will likely remain operational today.

A high-level meeting was convened via video conferencing, bringing together divisional commissioners, district magistrates, and senior police officers. Western Uttar Pradesh has been identified as a particularly sensitive region and placed on high alert.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 21, 2024 08:46 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).