Mysuru Bandh: United Protest Against Remarks on Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

The Ambedkar Fans’ Struggle Committee in Mysore has called for a citywide bandh on Tuesday following Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s controversial comments about Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.

The protest has garnered significant support from Dalit groups, progressive associations, Ambedkar Sangha, civic workers’ unions, and the Karnataka State Farmers’ Association.

This united front highlights the deep respect for Ambedkar’s legacy as the architect of the Indian Constitution and a collective readiness to defend it against perceived affronts.

Despite the bandh call, District Collector G. Laxmikantareddy announced that educational institutions would remain operational to limit disruptions to students’ education.

However, the industrial sector has expressed moral support for the cause without committing to direct participation, indicating a varied approach to solidarity.

Congress and Civil Society Join Forces

The Congress party has also lent its support to the bandh. The party organized a protest march featuring religious leaders, political figures, and activists, illustrating broad political and social backing.

Participants planned to garland Ambedkar’s statue at Dasappa Circle before commencing the march, signaling collective disapproval of Amit Shah’s remarks.

However, in a move to balance support for the cause with practical considerations, the Hotel Owners Association decided to remain operational while demonstrating their solidarity by wearing black bands.

“Our association strongly condemns any insult to great personalities,” said Association President C. Narayana Gowda. He emphasized the need to cater to tourists and hospital patients while morally supporting the bandh.

Ensuring Minimal Disruption

Organizers have made it clear that essential services such as medical shops and milk supply will not be affected by the bandh.

This thoughtful approach aims to minimize public inconvenience while amplifying the protest’s message.

K. Shivaramu, state president of the Backward Classes Awareness Forum, emphasized the peaceful nature of the bandh and criticized Amit Shah’s remarks as divisive.

He highlighted the unity among diverse communities rallying against casteism and communalism.

Transportation is expected to be significantly impacted, with plans to block vehicle movement on main highways. Auto, taxi, and private bus operations remain uncertain.

KSRTC Rural Divisional Controller Srinivas stated that bus services would adapt based on the day’s circumstances.

The Mysore City Corporation Permanent and Contract Municipal Workers’ Maha Sangh has also pledged support, with members participating in the bandh before assembling at Town Hall.

Unified Protest Across Mysuru

Over two dozen organizations have backed the bandh, reflecting a unified stand against Shah’s remarks. Former mayor K. Purushottam noted that the protest aimed to push for legal action against the Union Home Minister.

“This is a voluntary bandh. Over 10,000 pamphlets have been distributed to garner support from traders and business establishments,” he said.

Key protest actions include plans to block the Ring Road and national highways, ensuring the bandh’s impact is widely felt.

Teams will be stationed at strategic locations such as the KSRTC Suburban Bus Stand and city entry points to enforce the shutdown.

“This is about defending the pride and legacy of Dr. Ambedkar, the Father of the Indian Constitution,” emphasized Shivaram.

Hotels and Schools Balance Participation

The Hotel Owners Association announced that their members would participate in the agitation by wearing black bands while continuing operations to serve those in need.

“When it comes to protecting the interests of our state and its people, our association will always be at the forefront,” stated Gowda.

While most private schools remain open, citing ongoing examinations, some have declared holidays as a precautionary measure. School heads expressed concern about disrupting students’ schedules with exams fast approaching.

Authorities Prepare for Peaceful Demonstrations

City Police Commissioner Seema Latkar assured residents of sufficient arrangements to maintain law and order during the bandh.

Various Dalit organizations, Backward Class groups, and political entities, including the Socialist Democratic Party of India (SDPI), have pledged support. Leaders warned of further action, including a “Delhi Chalo” march, if no action is taken against Shah.

Former mayor Purushotham urged Prime Minister Modi to sack Amit Shah, emphasizing Ambedkar’s significance to millions of marginalized individuals.

He warned of escalating protests if the Union Home Minister is not removed from his position.