The bandh was called by Dr B R Ambedkar Abhimanigala Horata Samiti and several other Dalit organisations to protest against Amit Shah’s recent comments on Dr Ambedkar’s legacy
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI — Mysuru witnessed widespread disruption on Tuesday as a bandh called in protest against Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s remarks on Dr B. R. Ambedkar brought the city to a standstill. Public transport services, including buses, were severely affected, and a majority of shops and commercial establishments remained closed in solidarity with the protest.
The bandh call given by Dr B R Ambedkar Abhimanigala Horata Samiti, was supported by several Dalit and pro-Ambedkar organisations, who condemned Amit Shah’s recent comments, alleging them to be disrespectful to Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy.
According to media reports reaching here, demonstrators took to the streets early in the morning, blocking key junctions and urging citizens to support the bandh. Protesters also staged rallies at prominent locations, chanting slogans in favour of Dr Ambedkar and demanding an apology from the Union Minister.
The protesters also burnt an effigy of Union Home Minister Amit Shah during the bandh, near a bus stand, in Mysuru, reportedly.
Public transport was one of the sectors hit hardest by the bandh. The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) reportedly suspended many of its bus services as a precautionary measure to avoid damage to property and ensure passenger safety. Private bus operators also kept their fleets off the roads, leaving commuters stranded at bus stops and terminals across the city. Auto-rickshaw and cab services were limited, further compounding the difficulties faced by daily commuters.
A large number of people belonging to various Dalit organisations and Karnataka Backward Classes Awareness Forum had gathered near the suburban bus stand and prevented the buses from plying. They raised slogans against Amit Shah and.
Around 25 organisations had extended their support to the bandh. Congress had also extended support and took out a march, led by Congress president (rural) B J Vijaykumar, from the Congress office through Devaraj Urs Road to protest against Amit Shah.
Attendance at government offices and private workplaces was reportedly low, with several employees opting to work from home. Local authorities had advised citizens to avoid non-essential travel and remain indoors to ensure safety.
Despite the large turnout of protesters, the bandh remained largely peaceful. Police forces were deployed across Mysuru to maintain law and order, and no major incidents of violence were reported. However, minor scuffles were witnessed at a few locations where protesters attempted to enforce the bandh by blocking roads, according to reports.
The bandh underscores the deep respect and emotional connection that Dr. B. R. Ambedkar’s legacy holds among citizens.
