21 Aug 2024: Dalit and Adivasi organizations have called for a nationwide Bharat Bandh today, demanding stronger representation and enhanced protection for marginalized communities. The strike is supported by several political parties, including the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), and Left parties, reported The Hindu.
The bandh comes in response to a recent Supreme Court verdict that Dalit and Adivasi groups argument undermines the principles established in the landmark Indira Sawhney case, which laid the foundation for reservations in India. The National Confederation of Dalit and Adivasi Organisations (NACDAOR) has taken a strong stance against the seven-judge bench’s ruling, asserting that it poses a significant obstacle to the upliftment and empowerment of Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST).
Political parties like the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) have also joined the bandh, accusing both the BJP and Congress of conspiring to weaken the reservation system. BSP leaders have urged all parties to recognize the critical need for reservations and avoid undermining them.
JMM General Secretary Vinod Kumar Pandey expressed concern over the Supreme Court’s decision, stating that it threatens the progress made by SC/ST communities. He urged party members, district leaders, and supporters to actively participate in the 14-hour strike.
RJD State General Secretary Kailash Yadav and Congress spokesperson Rakesh Sinha have also confirmed their respective parties’ support for the bandh, emphasizing their commitment to the rights and representation of marginalized groups.
The Bharat Bandh is being observed across the nation, reflecting the deep-rooted concerns of Dalit and Adivasi communities regarding their place in the social and political fabric of India.
