Kannada activist Vatal Nagaraj said that the Karnataka bandh called for August 13 from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM would go ahead as planned, amid reports of differences among pro-Kannada organisations over the proposed shutdown against the release of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu.
Several Kannada outfits and activists are reportedly of the view that holding a bandh at this juncture may not be appropriate. Representatives of various organisations are likely to meet soon to discuss the issue and decide on the next course of action.
The bandh is expected to affect normal life across Karnataka, with several organisations extending support to the call. However, there is still uncertainty over the participation of some sectors, while the Bangalore Hotels Association has said it will extend moral support but urged the organisers to reconsider the bandh.
Here is what is likely to remain closed and what could stay open during the Karnataka bandh on August 13.
What will be closed during Karnataka bandh?
Shops and commercial establishments: Several shops and business establishments may remain closed in support of the bandh. The extent of participation could vary from one area to another.
Public transport: Bus and other public transport services like KSRTC, BMTC could be affected if transport unions or employees join the bandh. Commuters should be prepared for delays or reduced services.
Private establishments: Some private businesses and establishments may also remain shut depending on their decision to support the bandh.
Schools and colleges could be affected if the bandh receives widespread support. Parents and students should check with their respective institutions before travelling.
Will the Attibele-Hosur border be closed?
The Attibele-Hosur route could see traffic restrictions or disruption during the bandh, particularly if protesters gather near the Karnataka-Tamil Nadu border.
However, there is no confirmation at present that the border will be completely sealed throughout the day.
People travelling between Bengaluru and Hosur should check the traffic situation before leaving and be prepared for delays around Attibele.
What will remain open?
Hotels and restaurants: The Bangalore Hotels Association has extended moral support to the bandh but has also said that the hotel industry comes under essential services. Individual hotels and restaurants will take their own decision on whether to remain open.
Essential services: Hospitals and other essential services are expected to continue functioning. Emergency services are also likely to remain operational.
Government offices: There could be an impact if employees participate in the bandh, but essential government services are expected to continue.
Why is Karnataka observing a bandh?
Pro-Kannada organisations announced the statewide bandh on July 31 following a meeting held under Nagraj’s leadership in Bengaluru.
The bandh was called after the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) upheld an earlier order of the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) directing Karnataka to release 3,500 cusecs of Cauvery water to Tamil Nadu for 15 days.
Karnataka had initially opposed the release, citing low storage levels in its reservoirs. The state later began releasing water after heavy rainfall in the Cauvery catchment areas improved inflows.
Are Kannada organisations divided over the bandh?
Some pro-Kannada organisations and activists are reportedly questioning whether a bandh is appropriate at this stage. Representatives of various organisations are expected to meet to discuss the issue and decide on the next course of action.
Vatal Nagaraj, however, has rejected reports of differences and claimed that more than 2,000 organisations across Karnataka have backed the bandh.
“From Belagavi to Chamarajanagara and from Mangaluru to Kolar, more than 2,000 organisations have supported the bandh in the interest of the state. Students have also extended their support,” he said.
“No one has said no to the bandh. Everyone is supporting it. There is no division among us,” Nagraj added.
What has the Bangalore Hotels Association said?
The Bangalore Hotels Association said it would extend moral support to the bandh but appealed to pro-Kannada organisations to reconsider the shutdown.
The association cited the rainfall received in the state, the all-party meeting convened by Chief Minister D K Shivakumar and his statement that there was no need for a bandh.
It also pointed to court guidelines concerning bandh calls.
What else is Vatal Nagaraj protesting?
Nagaraj and other Kannada activists staged a protest near Attibele on the Karnataka-Tamil Nadu border over Tamil Nadu’s opposition to the Mekedatu project.
Police detained Nagaraj and several other protesters after they attempted to block the highway.
Nagraj said Bengaluru could face a drinking water shortage in the future if the Mekedatu project is not implemented.
The Mekedatu project is a proposed multipurpose drinking water and power project involving a balancing reservoir near Kanakapura in Bengaluru South district. Tamil Nadu has opposed the project, citing concerns over its impact on the state’s share of Cauvery water.