Karnataka Bandh: Mixed Response Across State Amid Government’s Assurance of Law and Order

Bengaluru: March 22, 2025

The Karnataka Bandh called by pro-Kannada organizations under the leadership of Kannada activist Vatal Nagaraj saw a mixed response across the state. While protests were reported in some areas, normal life remained largely unaffected in others. The bandh, organized against the alleged assault of a KSRTC bus conductor by members of a pro-Marathi group in Belagavi, aimed to press the government for stricter action against such incidents.

Government’s Response: Home Minister Assures Security

Karnataka Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara stated that necessary precautionary measures had been taken to ensure law and order during the bandh. Speaking to the media, he said, “We had been preparing for the past three to four days. Instructions were given to all district Superintendents of Police (SPs) and Commissioners to prevent any untoward incidents. Police have been directed to monitor the situation closely, and strict action, including arrests, will be taken against those who try to create disruptions.”

He also mentioned that, based on available information, the bandh was not significantly widespread. “The state remains largely peaceful. The police are keeping a close watch, and we will continue monitoring the situation till the evening,” he assured.

Impact on Daily Life

Transportation

Public transport services were partially affected, with some KSRTC and BMTC buses staying off the roads. Many private cab and auto-rickshaw drivers supported the bandh, causing difficulties for commuters. However, metro services continued to operate without disruptions.

Education

The bandh sparked concerns as it coincided with the SSLC (Class 10) examinations. While the government ensured that exams proceeded as scheduled, some students faced difficulties reaching their centers due to the transport disruption.

Business and Commercial Establishments

Markets in Bengaluru, including KR Market and Chickpet, saw partial closures, while many shops in other parts of the city remained open. In districts like Mysuru and Belagavi, some businesses observed the bandh, while others continued normal operations.

Opposition’s Reaction

Opposition leaders criticized the bandh’s timing, pointing out its impact on students and daily wage earners. They urged the government to take a more proactive approach in addressing Kannada-related concerns without resorting to state-wide shutdowns.

Public Sentiment: Mixed Reactions

• Supporters: Pro-Kannada activists staged protests at various locations, distributing flowers and blocking buses in some areas. Traders in Kannada-dominated regions voluntarily shut down their businesses in solidarity.

• Neutral/Opposing Views: Many auto drivers and daily wage workers expressed reluctance to support the bandh, citing financial hardships. Some citizens questioned the effectiveness of such shutdowns in resolving language and border disputes.

Current Situation

As of midday, no major law-and-order incidents were reported, and the state remained largely peaceful. With police on high alert, authorities have assured that any violations will be dealt with strictly. The bandh’s overall impact has been moderate, with life continuing as usual in several areas despite sporadic disruptions.