Karnataka bandh: Why is Bengaluru closed today? What's open, closed
What's the story
Karnataka is observing a statewide bandh on Saturday, March 22, from 6:00am to 6:00pm.
The 12-hour shutdown has been called by Kannada Okkoota, a coalition of various pro-Kannada groups.
The bandh was announced after a KSRTC bus conductor in Belagavi was assaulted last month by people associated with pro-Marathi organizations for not speaking their language.
Language dispute
Background of the Karnataka bandh
The attack on the KSRTC conductor for not speaking Marathi resulted in the suspension of inter-state bus services between Maharashtra and Karnataka.
The incident rekindled debates on continuing language disputes between the two states.
The region has a considerable Marathi-speaking population, which has been a bone of contention since Maharashtra's creation in 1960.
Ban on pro-Marathi organizations
Pro-Kannada groups demand action against pro-Marathi activists
The Kannada Okkoota has demanded stringent action against pro-Marathi activists for inciting violence and disturbing communal harmony in the region. They have also demanded the prohibition of pro-Marathi organizations.
Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar announced that the Siddaramaiah-led state government will not support the bandh, saying that they will make them understand that it is not the right course of action as it will affect students whose exams have already begun.
Transport and business
Impact of the Karnataka bandh on public services
Bus services across the state are likely to be affected, with KSRTC and Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) unions supporting the bandh.
Third-party transport vendors including Ola, Uber, and some auto-rickshaw unions have also extended support.
However, metro, railway, and airport services will run uninterrupted.
Banks will be shut on account of it being the weekend.
Open and closed
What about other businesses?
Although eateries including restaurants have offered symbolic support to the bandh after pro-Kannada organizations reached out to them, they are likely to stay open.
Cinemas might have disruptions, particularly in the morning shows.
Government offices will also function, with the Karnataka government refusing to support the protest.
All establishments providing healthcare or other essential services will also function.