New Delhi: The Bharat Bandh called by various groups on Wednesday to protest the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on the sub-classification of Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) received a mixed response across the country. The bandh led to significant disruptions in some regions, while others remained largely unaffected.
In Jharkhand, the bandh caused partial disruptions, with public buses staying off the roads and schools closed in several areas, including the capital, Ranchi. Chief Minister Hemant Soren canceled his visit to Palamu due to the strike. The ruling alliance in the state, comprising the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), Congress, and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), along with Left parties, supported the bandh. However, the impact varied across the state, with some areas witnessing protests and others continuing business as usual. Security was tightened at key locations to prevent any untoward incidents.
In Madhya Pradesh, the bandh had a minimal impact despite support from veteran Congress leader Digvijaya Singh, who voiced concerns over the Supreme Court’s decision. The state home department had issued directives to district authorities to maintain law and order during the bandh, and disruptions were largely kept in check.
