Bharat Bandh: Protests Across India Over Supreme Court Ruling on SC/ST Reservations

A nationwide strike called ‘Bharat Bandh’ is happening across India in response to a recent Supreme Court ruling on SC/ST reservations. The Reservation Bachao Sangharsh Samiti announced the Bharat Bandh to protest the ruling.

Protests in Various Cities

In Patna, the police baton charged people protesting in support of the bandh. In Rajasthan’s Bikaner district, an atmosphere similar to a lockdown is being observed. SC/ST community members are forming groups to ensure the shutdown is successful, while the police are on high alert to prevent any unusual incidents.

In Jharkhand’s capital city, Ranchi, roads like Harmu Chowk, Kathal Mode, and Chapu Toli Chowk are completely blocked by bandh supporters burning tyres. In Noida, Uttar Pradesh, large numbers of police forces have been deployed. Joint Commissioner of Police Shiv Hari Meena stated that foot marches are being conducted to maintain law and order and ensure the general public does not face any problems.

Supreme Court Ruling

The Supreme Court ruled on August 1 that states have the power to sub-classify SCs and STs. The ruling was delivered by a seven-judge bench led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, with a majority judgement of 6:1. The court stated that sub-classification within SCs and STs is permissible, overruling an earlier judgement in the EV Chinnaiah matter.

Justice BR Gavai suggested that states should evolve a policy to identify the creamy layer within SCs and STs to exclude them from affirmative action benefits. However, Justice Bela M Trivedi dissented, disagreeing with the majority judgement.

Government’s Stance

Union Minister Jayant Singh Chaudhary mentioned that the Supreme Court’s comments have been clarified by the Law Minister in Parliament and by the Cabinet, indicating that there is no further issue.