Dalit, Adivasi groups call for nationwide strike over top court's ruling on reservation policies

A nationwide strike as Bharat Bandh has been called on Aug 21 in response to a recent Supreme Court ruling on reservations for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs).

This strike is organized by Dalit and Adivasi organizations who are advocating for stronger representation and protections for marginalized communities. The Supreme Court's ruling, which passed with a majority of 6:1, allows states to create sub-classifications within SCs and STs.

Furthermore, it permits the states to establish a creamy layer within these categories, prioritizing those most in need. However, this decision was subsequently rejected by the Central Government.

The ruling has ignited considerable controversy and criticism from various social and political groups. Critics argue that this judgment could undermine the reservation system and potentially increase community divisions.

The National Confederation of Dalit and Adivasi Organizations (NACDAOR) has issued a set of demands aimed at achieving justice and equity for SCs, STs, and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).

The organization is urging Dalits, Adivasis, and OBCs to join a peaceful protest on Aug 21 to press for these demands.

NACDAOR contends that the recent Supreme Court judgment contradicts the principles established by the landmark Indira Sawhney case, which is a cornerstone of India’s reservation framework.

They have called on the government to reject this ruling, arguing that it threatens the constitutional rights of SCs and STs. Additionally, NACDAOR is pushing for the enactment of a new Act of Parliament to safeguard reservations for SCs, STs, and OBCs by including it in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution.

They believe this measure will protect these provisions from judicial challenges and enhance social harmony.

The organization is also demanding the release of detailed caste-based data regarding SC/ST/OBC employees in government services to ensure proper representation.

Furthermore, they are advocating for the creation of an Indian Judicial Service to recruit judges and judicial officers from various societal sections, aiming for 50% representation from SC, ST, and OBC categories in the higher judiciary.

Support for the Bharat Bandh has been announced by several political parties and organizations. The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), Congress, and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) have pledged their backing for the strike.

Leftist parties have also endorsed the bandh. JMM has instructed its leaders and district representatives to actively participate in the 14-hour nationwide strike. JMM general secretary Vinod Kumar Pandey criticized the Supreme Court's ruling as an obstacle to the upliftment of SCs and STs.

Similarly, RJD's state general secretary Kailash Yadav and Congress spokesperson Rakesh Sinha have confirmed their parties' support for the bandh.

The organizers of the Bharat Bandh have requested that all businesses close on Aug 21, although market committees have not yet confirmed widespread shutdowns. Public transport, including metro services, might face disruptions, but schools and colleges are expected to remain open.

Government offices and banks are likely to operate normally, although services might be affected due to reduced staffing and increased security measures. Emergency services, such as medical services, ambulances, and utilities, will continue to function.

Protesters halted the Darbhanga-Delhi Bihar Sampark Express at Darbhanga station in Bihar. In Patna, police used lathi-charges against demonstrators supporting a Bharat Bandh over a Supreme Court reservation ruling. Clashes also erupted in Jehanabad, Bihar, where protesters blocked National Highway 83.

In Rajasthan, the Bharat Bandh will lead to the closure of educational institutions in seven districts—Jaipur, Alwar, Dausa, Sawai Madhopur, Deeg, Jaisalmer, and Bharatpur—following the call from the Aarakshan Bachao Sangharsh Samiti.

Kota University has postponed examinations as a result. The Congress and the Scheduled Caste-Tribe Sanyukt Sangharsh Samiti have also expressed support for the bandh.

In Jaipur, the Aarakshan Bachao Sangharsh Samiti has organized 25 units to enforce the bandh, urging traders to close their shops and planning a rally.

Rajasthan's Director General of Police (DGP), UR Sahoo, has directed district superintendents of police to maintain order and engage with local organizations to ensure cooperation.

In Jaipur, Police Commissioner Biju George Joseph has initiated discussions with groups supporting the strike to prevent potential conflicts and disruptions during the protest.