Karnataka Bandh Over SC Sub-Quota Demand; Tension in Border Districts

Bengaluru, March 11: A statewide bandh in Karnataka on Wednesday over the demand for internal reservation (SC sub-quota) within the Scheduled Castes triggered disruptions in several districts, with tensions reported especially in border areas. Various Dalit and pro-reservation organisations called the bandh demanding the implementation of sub-classification among Scheduled Castes to ensure fair distribution of reservation benefits. The protest affected normal life in parts of the state, with shops closed, buses off the roads and traffic movement disrupted in many towns. Tense situations were reported in border districts near Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, where police deployed additional forces to prevent clashes and maintain law and order. Authorities kept a close watch on sensitive areas as protestors staged road blockades and rallies. Public transport services of the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation were partially affected in some regions, while schools, colleges and businesses in several towns remained closed as a precautionary measure. Protest leaders warned that the agitation could intensify if the state government fails to take a clear decision on SC reservation sub-division. Meanwhile, the state administration appealed for calm and urged protestors to maintain peace during the bandh. Security has been tightened across major cities including Bengaluru and other sensitive districts as officials continue to monitor the situation.