Various agricultural unions have decided on a statewide Bandh on 28th September. Farmer organizations have been protesting on a number of bills proposed on the farm sector, including those which allow the purchase of agricultural land by non-agriculturists, as well as amendments to the Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) Act, allowing farmers to sell outside Mandis to private players. Farmer organizations opine that these acts as well as proposed changes to the electricity act in the state would be harmful to their interests.
The respective outfits also had a discussion with Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa regarding the matter. After the talks failed, the outfits decided to go ahead with the Bandh. It is said that protests would be intense at Town Hall, Majestic, and near Mysore Bank Circle. Two thousand policemen have been given the duty and based on the response tomorrow, more protection could be called for. The decision would be taken by the higher officials on Monday.
What’s open?
The State Government has made it clear that during the Bandh, essential commodities such as milk, fruits, vegetables, medical stores, and hospital services would be made available. KSRTC, BMTC, and Metro will also function as usual. There would be no disruption in rail or airport operations too.
What’s closed?
SSLC Supplementary exams and Bangalore University’s exams have already been postponed. Importantly, Ola-Uber and Auto-Taxi outfits have given their support for the Bandh, and hence, they will not hit the road. Private Bus and Lorry services will also be absent on Monday.
Shops will remain closed, and Malls have decided to close their shutters too. Depending on the protests and the situation, companies and other industries will take a call whether or not operations would be suspended.
Source: One India
