Several pro-Kannada groups have called for a Karnataka bandh today (March 22) to protest the alleged attack on a bus conductor in Belagavi. The bandh has been organised from 6 am to 6 pm. However, the Karnataka government is not supporting this bandh.
Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar had said on Thursday that the Siddaramaiah-led government will not support the shutdown. He said, ‘We will explain to them (organisations) that this is not the right step as it will affect the students whose exams have already started.’
Following the call for Karnataka Bandh, additional security forces are expected to be deployed in Belagavi and other sensitive areas of the state. Travelers, businessmen and students have been warned that their normal routine may be affected by the bandh.
Bus services: Unions of the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) have supported the shutdown, which may affect bus services across the state.
Ola-Uber service: Third party transport services like Ola, Uber and some rickshaw unions have also supported this bandh, which will disrupt transport in the state. However, metro, railway and airport services will continue without interruption.
Banks: Banks will remain closed as it is Saturday. Some schools and colleges may have a holiday today, but no official announcement has been made yet.