Karnataka Bandh on March 22: Why is Bengaluru Closed? Key Details You Need to Know
The Karnataka bandh on March 22, from 6 AM to 6 PM, has been called by pro-Kannada groups in protest against the alleged assault on a Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus conductor in Belagavi. The 12-hour shutdown is expected to impact public transport, educational institutions, and other essential services across the state.
Karnataka Bandh Timings & Organizers
- Date: Saturday, March 22, 2025
- Time: 6 AM to 6 PM
- Organizer: Kannada Okkoota
Why is Karnataka Observing a Bandh?
The shutdown has been called in response to an incident in February where a KSRTC bus conductor was allegedly attacked by pro-Marathi groups in Belagavi for not speaking Marathi. This incident has intensified linguistic tensions in the region.
Will Bengaluru Be Closed on March 22?
Yes, Bengaluru will experience a 12-hour shutdown on Saturday, March 22. Public services, including transportation and businesses, may be significantly affected.
Impact on Public Transport
- KSRTC and Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) employees have extended their support to the bandh.
- Bus services across Karnataka may remain unavailable, but there is no official confirmation from KSRTC and BMTC on operations.
Will Schools and Colleges Be Closed?
- There is no official confirmation on whether schools and colleges will remain closed.
- Since the bandh coincides with examination schedules, students are concerned about potential disruptions.
Will Banks Be Affected?
- Banks will remain closed on March 22, as it falls on the fourth Saturday of the month.
- The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has also declared a bank holiday in Patna on March 22 for Bihar Diwas.
- However, no official statement has been issued regarding closures due to the Karnataka bandh.
Will Ola, Uber, and Auto Services Operate?
- The Ola and Uber Owners and Drivers Association, along with auto-rickshaw unions, have pledged support for the bandh.
- Cab and auto-rickshaw availability may be severely affected.
Hotel and Film Industry Response
- Representatives from the hotel and film industry have expressed support for the Karnataka bandh.
- The extent of disruption to hospitality and entertainment services remains unclear.
Demands of Karnataka Bandh Organizers
The bandh organizers have outlined the following key demands:
- Ban on Marathi groups such as Maharashtra Ekikaran Samiti (MES) in Karnataka.
- Protection of Kannada-speaking populations, especially in border districts like Belagavi.
- Opposition to the division of Bengaluru into multiple administrative zones, citing concerns over Kannada culture.
Conclusion
The Karnataka bandh on March 22 is expected to impact daily life across the state, with disruptions to transport, businesses, and public services. Residents are advised to plan accordingly and stay updated on official announcements regarding closures and service availability.
Stay tuned for live updates on the Karnataka bandh and its impact on Bengaluru and other cities.
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