Nationwide Strike Over SC-ST Reservation Verdict Causes Disruption in Jharkhand

Jharkhand experienced disruptions as a Bharat Bandh called by several groups over the SC-ST reservation verdict led to schools closing and public buses staying off the roads. Chief Minister Hemant Soren canceled a visit due to the strike. Security measures have been heightened to maintain order.

The day-long Bharat Bandh called by some groups over community-based reservation evoked a mixed reaction in Jharkhand on Wednesday, as several public buses stayed off the roads and schools remained closed.

Chief Minister Hemant Soren has also canceled his visit to Palamu on Wednesday due to the strike, an official said.

Twenty-one organizations across the country have called for the Bharat Bandh against the Supreme Court's August 1 decision on the issue of SC-ST reservation. The organizations have opposed the verdict, contending that it will harm the basic principles of reservation.

The state's ruling alliance – Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), Congress and the Rashtriya Janata Dal – have extended support to the bandh. The Left parties, too, have backed the strike.

In some parts of the state, workers of the alliance were seen taking to the streets in support of the bandh.

Schools remain closed in Ranchi and most parts of the state, while several long-route public buses were seen parked at bus stands, inconveniencing commuters.

'I had to go to Giridih today for urgent work. But, buses are not plying. I had no prior information about this development,' said Vinod Rawani, as he awaited transportation at the Khadgarha bus stand.

Security has been bolstered at key locations to prevent any untoward incident, the official said.

(With inputs from agencies.)