NEW DELHI: “Bharat Bandh”, a nationwide strike, has been called on August 21, in response to a recent Supreme Court ruling on SC/ST reservations by Dalit and Adivasi organisations demanding stronger representation and protection for marginalised communities.
What is the Supreme Court ruling?
The Supreme Court recently in a 6:1 ruling said that the states can create sub-classification within Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST). The apex also permitted states to create creamy layer within these categories ensuring that those who are most in need within these groups receive priority which was later turned down by the Centre.
However, this ruling sparked widespread controversy and opposition from several social and political organisations. Critics argue that it undermines the principles of reservation and could lead to increased division among communities.
What are the demands?
The National Confederation of Dalit and Adivasi Organisations (NACDAOR) has put forth a list of demands, which includes justice and equity for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
The organisation has appealed to Dalits, Adivasis, and OBCs to participate in a peaceful agitation on Wednesday, emphasising the importance of their collective action in achieving their demands for justice and equality.
The NACDAOR said that the recent judgement undermines the earlier ruling of a nine-judge bench in the landmark Indira Sawhney case, the cornerstone of India’s reservation framework.
The organisation has called upon the government to reject this judgment, asserting that it jeopardises the constitutional rights of SCs and STs.
Addtionally, the NACDAOR is advocating for the enactment of a new Act of Parliament on reservations for SCs, STs, and OBCs, to be safeguarded by inclusion in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution. This measure, they contend, will protect these provisions from judicial interference and foster social harmony.
The organisation has also demanded the immediate release of caste-based data on SC/ST/OBC employees in government services to ensure accurate representation and are pushing for the establishment of an Indian Judicial Service to recruit judicial officers and judges from all sections of society, with a target of 50 per cent representation from SC, ST, and OBC categories in the higher judiciary.
JMM, Congress, Left, RJD extend support
The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), Congress, and the Rashtriya Janata Dal announced on Tuesday their support for the Bharat Bandh call given by various organizations on Wednesday. Left parties have also backed the call for the strike.
JMM has instructed all its leaders, district presidents, secretaries, and district coordinators to actively participate in the 14-hour nationwide strike and show their support.
Vinod Kumar Pandey, JMM general secretary, said, “The recent verdict given by the Supreme Court on the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe reservations would prove to be an obstacle in the path of upliftment and strengthening of the SC/ST classes.”
Kailash Yadav, RJD state general secretary and media in-charge, confirmed that the party has decided to support and participate in the day-long strike. Similarly, Rakesh Sinha, the state Congress spokesperson, also announced the party’s support for the bandh call.
What might be affected?
The organising group has requested that all business establishments remains close on Wednesady. However, Market committees have not yet confirmed widespread closures.
Additiobally, public transport, including metro services, may experience disruptions. Educational institutions such as schools and colleges are expected to remain open despite the bandh. However, all the educational institutions will remain closed in seven districts of Rajasthan on August 21 in the wake of the Bharat Bandh call given by the Aarakshan Bachao Sangharsh Samiti.
Government offices and banks are likely to function normally. There may be some impact on services due to reduced staff and increased security measures.
Further, eEmergency services, including medical services, ambulances, drinking water supply, public transport, rail services, and electricity services, will remain operational.
