Bangalore bandh on February 13: Here's how it will impact tech city

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BENGALURU: Karnataka bandh called by pro-Kannada outfits on Thursday (February 13) is likely to impact normal life in Bengaluru. The state-wide bandh has been called by Karnataka Sanghatanegala Okkoota, a congregation of various pro-Kannada organisations, demanding reservation in jobs for Kannadigas in both government and private sectors.

The bandh, which will begin from 6 am to 6 pm, is likely to impact life in Bengaluru since app-based cab operators like Ola and Uber have also decided to support the bandh. However, it is not yet clear as to whether the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) staff and workers associations will back Thursday’s bandh. 

In Bengaluru, some other drivers’ associations, including Jai Bharatha Vehicle Owners and Drivers Association and Adarsha Auto and Taxi Union have also supported the bandh.

Several other organisations like the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC), Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), and Lorry Owners Association have supported the February 13 bandh.

In view of the bandh call, schools, colleges and hospitals across Karnataka are likely to remain closed on Thursday. Emergency services like hospitals, ambulance service, medical shops, milk booths will be open. Hotel owners have not extended any support to the strike yet, so it seems like most of the eateries will be open on Thursday. Namma Metro will function Namma Metro will function as usual. 

The Sarojini Mahishi report, which in 1984 suggested that Kannadigas should be given some reservation in jobs in private companies, public sector undertakings and multinational companies, is yet to be implemented.

It is to be noted that Sarojini Mahishi, a four-time MP and Janatha party leader, was appointed by the Ramakrishna Hegde government to head the panel in 1983. The committee submitted an interim report in June 1984. However, a final report was tabled in December 1986 with 58 recommendations, of which the Karnataka government had accepted 45.

(With Agency inputs)