Bharat Bandh On August 21: What's Open, What's Closed - Key Details For Tomorrow's Nationwide Strike

The Reservation Bachao Sangharsh Samiti has announced a Bharat Bandh on August 21 in response to the recent Supreme Court verdict on SC/ST reservations. The bandh has garnered widespread support, particularly from SC/ST groups in Rajasthan, who have expressed solidarity with the cause.

The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) has also thrown its weight behind the Bharat Bandh. The party has urged its members and supporters, both large and small, to actively participate in the nationwide shutdown. The Bharat Bandh has been trending on social media, reflecting the growing momentum behind the protest.

Photo Credit: PTI

Why Is Bharat Bandh Being Called?

The Bharat Bandh has been called in protest against a significant ruling by the Supreme Court on August 1. The Constitutional Bench of the Supreme Court issued a decision allowing states the right to create sub-categories within the Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) reservation system, effectively enabling a "quota within a quota." This means that state governments can establish separate reservation categories within the existing reservation framework to ensure that the benefits reach those who are often left out.

Furthermore, the Supreme Court ruled that the principle of the "creamy layer" applies to Scheduled Castes, just as it does to Other Backward Classes (OBCs). This decision has sparked controversy and opposition, with many leaders, including BSP supremo Mayawati, criticizing the ruling.

The ruling overturns a 2004 Supreme Court decision in the case of EV Chinnaiah vs. Andhra Pradesh Government, where a five-judge bench had previously stated that state governments could not create sub-categories for SC/ST job reservations. The recent verdict, therefore, marks a significant shift in the legal stance on this issue.

What Will Be Open During Bharat Bandh?

While the Bharat Bandh is expected to impact various sectors across the country, certain essential services will remain operational:

- Ambulance services
- Emergency services
- Hospitals and medical services
- Police services
- Pharmacies

These services will continue to function to ensure that critical needs are met during the bandh.

As the nation braces for the Bharat Bandh, the protest reflects the deep-seated concerns and ongoing debates surrounding the implementation of reservations and social justice in India.