A 12-hour statewide bandh has been called in Karnataka on Saturday, March 22, from 6 AM to 6 PM, led by Kannada Okkoota, a coalition of pro-Kannada organizations. This protest responds to an alleged assault on a Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus conductor in Belagavi for not speaking Marathi, intensifying existing linguistic tensions in the region.
Anticipated Disruptions in Bengaluru:
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Public Transportation: Bus services, including those by KSRTC and Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC), are likely to be disrupted as employees have expressed solidarity with the bandh. Ride-hailing services like Ola and Uber, along with auto-rickshaws, may also be limited due to support from their unions.
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Educational Institutions: There is uncertainty regarding the operation of schools and colleges. While some institutions may close, others might remain open, potentially affecting students, especially those with scheduled examinations.
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Businesses and Services: The bandh has garnered support from various sectors, including the hotel and film industries, which could lead to closures or reduced operations.
Residents are advised to plan accordingly, anticipate disruptions, and stay updated through official channels for the latest information.