Bengaluru Bandh: Closures and Protests Over Cauvery Dispute
Today, Bengaluru is in the grip of a city-wide bandh, with various groups protesting against the release of Cauvery River water to Tamil Nadu. This contentious issue, fueling decades-long disputes between the two southern states, has recently flared up following a directive from the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA). The CWMA ordered Karnataka to release 5000 cusecs of water to Tamil Nadu, a directive that Karnataka has resisted, citing drought-like conditions and water scarcity.
Protestors, including opposition parties and pro-Kannada groups, have united in their opposition to this water release. As a result, Bengaluru streets remained deserted this morning as the city observed the bandh.
Key Developments:
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Transport Disruptions:
Bus services from Tamil Nadu to Karnataka have been disrupted due to the bandh, causing difficulties for commuters and workers traveling between the two states. While auto drivers and transport corporations supported the bandh, public transport operations are expected to run normally. However, schools, colleges, and other educational institutions have been closed for the day.
Political Reactions:
Former Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy criticized the government for detaining protestors during the bandh. He called for the release of detained protesters and expressed support for the continuous flow of Cauvery River water to Tamil Nadu. He also accused the Congress party of aligning with the DMK on this issue.
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Protests and detentions:
In Bengaluru, farmers protested the release of Cauvery water, raising slogans and even lying on the ground in protest. Police detained Kurubur Shanthakumar, the president of the Karnataka Jala Samrakshana Samithi, for leading a march to Freedom Park without obtaining permission.
Business Closures:
Restaurants in the city have closed their doors today in support of the bandh. The Bangalore Hoteliers Association cited a lack of justice for their decision to participate in the protest.
Transport Services:
Ola and Uber cabs are expected to operate as usual in Bengaluru today, providing some relief for commuters.
Security Measures:
Bengaluru: Police personnel deployed in good numbers at Kempegowda International Airport amid the call for a bandh in the city today.
— ANI (@ANI) September 25, 2023
Section 144 has been imposed in the city, prohibiting gatherings of more than five people. Protests will be allowed only at Freedom Park.
Upcoming Bandh:
Another statewide bandh has been called for Friday, adding to the ongoing unrest over the Cauvery water dispute. Opposition parties have lent their support to these protests.
In conclusion, the Cauvery water dispute continues to generate tensions and protests in Bengaluru, with various groups demanding justice and expressing their grievances through the bandh. While disruptions are evident, life in the city continues, with certain services operating as usual.
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