Statewide Karnataka Bandh on March 22: What’s Open, What’s Shut

Karnataka is set for a statewide bandh on Saturday, March 22, as approximately 3,000 pro-Kannada organizations prepare to lead the protest. The bandh is expected to impact various sectors from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The bandh was called following an incident on February 21 in Belagavi, where a Marathi youth allegedly assaulted bus conductor Mahadev near Sulebhavi-Balekundri. The dispute reportedly began when the conductor requested a passenger to converse in Kannada, escalating into a broader linguistic conflict.

Kannada Chaluvali Vatal Paksha leader Vatal Nagaraj is spearheading the demonstration, presenting several demands to the state government:

1. Ban on Maharashtra Ekikarana Samiti for alleged anti-Kannada activities and harassment of Kannada speakers.

2. Opposition to the imposition of Hindi and restrictions on its learning in Karnataka.

3. Immediate implementation of the Kalasa Banduri and Mahadayi projects, along with developmental initiatives in northern Karnataka.

4. Protest against the central government over an inadequate GST share and insufficient budgetary allocations for the state.

Impact on Services: What’s Open and Closed

Open:

- Metro services will operate as usual.

- Hotels and restaurants will remain open.

- Milk supply will continue without disruption.

- Medical services, including hospitals and pharmacies, will function normally.

Closed:

- BMTC and KSRTC bus services will be suspended from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

- Ride-hailing services such as Ola and Uber, along with auto-rickshaws, are unlikely to operate.

- Cinema halls and entertainment venues are expected to remain closed.

- Banks will not function during the bandh.

Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Thursday stated that the government does not support the bandh and urged pro-Kannada organizations to engage in discussions instead. He emphasized the potential inconvenience for students and citizens, especially as the administration has scheduled a month-long water conservation initiative starting on March 22, coinciding with World Water Day.

The Kannada-Marathi language conflict in Karnataka, particularly in the Belagavi region, has historical roots. After Maharashtra was formed on May 1, 1960, it laid claim to 865 villages, including Belagavi, Karwar, and Nippani. Karnataka has consistently rejected these claims, leading to ongoing tensions.

Vatal Nagaraj stated on Wednesday that the bandh is expected to receive significant support, although the participation of some organizations remains uncertain.