Karnataka Bandh on March 22: What's Open, What's Closed

A statewide bandh has been called in Karnataka on March 22 by pro-Kannada groups protesting against the Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill and the recent attack on a bus conductor in Belagavi over language issues. The bandh is expected to impact normal life, with mixed responses from various sectors.

Moral Support from the Hotel Association

Despite the bandh, hotels across Karnataka will remain open. Bangalore Hotel Association President PC Rao confirmed that while the association supports the cause, hotels will function as usual since they provide an essential service.

Meanwhile, CAMS General Secretary Shashikumar has urged Kannada organizations to reconsider the bandh date, as students from Class 1 to Class 9 are in the middle of their academic exams. He emphasized that an unexpected school holiday could disrupt their studies.

Karnataka Bandh: What Will Be Open?

✅ Hospitals & Medical Services - Healthcare facilities will function as usual.
✅ Milk Supply - Distribution will not be disrupted.
✅ Hotels & Restaurants - Will remain open, as per the Bangalore Hotel Association.
✅ Metro Services - Namma Metro is expected to run as usual.
✅ Essential Shops - Pharmacies and essential goods stores will likely remain open.

🚫 What Will Be Closed?

❌ Ola, Uber, and Autos - Some unions have extended support, causing possible disruptions.
❌ APMC Markets - Agricultural markets may remain shut.
❌ Cinema Theaters & Film Industry - Film chambers and theaters may observe the bandh.
❌ Shopping Malls & Retail Shops - Likely to be affected, with shopkeepers in a dilemma.
❌ Street Vendors & Small Businesses - Uncertainty over participation.

School & College Closures?

The bandh comes at a crucial time for students, as Class 1 to 9 exams are ongoing. CAMS General Secretary Shashikumar has urged Kannada groups to reconsider the bandh date to avoid academic disruptions. However, an official announcement on school closures is still awaited.

'We Will Make the Bandh Successful,' Says Vatal Nagaraj

Pro-Kannada leader Vatal Nagaraj, speaking in Mysuru, vowed to ensure the success of the bandh. He highlighted key demands, including:

• A ban on MES (Maharashtra Ekikaran Samiti) for alleged anti-Kannada activities.
• Immediate implementation of the Kalasa-Banduri Mahadayi project.
• Action against Marathi groups accused of harassing Kannadigas.
• Opposition to Hindi imposition in Karnataka.

He urged all Kannadigas to participate in the 12-hour bandh, stating that it is a fight for the self-respect of Karnataka. "The bandh will be observed across the state, from Belagavi to Chamarajanagar," he said, adding that Belagavi is being dominated by Marathi influences rather than Kannadigas.

The Karnataka Bandh will be observed from 6 AM to 6 PM on March 22, and authorities are expected to issue further guidelines on its impact in the coming days. Stay tuned for updates on school closures and transport arrangements.