Supreme Court Verdict Sparks Nationwide Strike

A nationwide strike, known as 'Bharat Bandh', has been called for on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, in response to the recent Supreme Court verdict on Scheduled Caste (SC) reservations. The strike is being organized by various Dalit and Adivasi organizations, who are demanding stronger representation and protection for marginalized communities.

Support for the Strike

• The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), Congress, and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) have extended their support to the Bharat Bandh.
• Left parties have also backed the call for the strike.
• The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) has also supported the strike, accusing the BJP and Congress of colluding to end reservations.

Supreme Court Verdict on SC Reservations

The recent Supreme Court verdict, delivered by a seven-judge bench, has been criticized by the organizations calling for the Bharat Bandh. They argue that the verdict undermines the earlier ruling of a nine-judge bench in the landmark Indira Sawhney case, which established the framework for reservations in India.

JMM's Stance on the Supreme Court Verdict

JMM general secretary Vinod Kumar Pandey expressed concerns about the Supreme Court's verdict, stating that it would hinder the progress and empowerment of SC/ST communities. He called for active participation in the 14-hour nationwide strike.

RJD's Support for the Bharat Bandh

RJD state general secretary and media in-charge Kailash Yadav announced the party's decision to participate in the day-long strike. The RJD, along with other political parties, has expressed solidarity with the demands of the Dalit and Adivasi groups.

Congress's Position on Reservations and the Supreme Court Verdict

State Congress spokesperson Rakesh Sinha confirmed the party's support for the Bharat Bandh call. The Congress party has historically championed the cause of reservations and is concerned about the potential impact of the Supreme Court verdict on the rights of marginalized communities.

Bharat Bandh: Impact and Demands

The Bharat Bandh is expected to disrupt normal life across the country, with various businesses and services likely to be affected. The organizations behind the strike are calling for:

• Stronger representation and protection for Dalit and Adivasi communities.
• Reversal or modification of the Supreme Court verdict on SC reservations.
• Effective implementation of reservation policies to ensure equitable opportunities for marginalized groups.