Patna:
The nationwide strike (Bandh) in India, protesting the Supreme Court’s decision on creamy layer in SC/ST reservations, has affected several districts in Bihar. At Ara’s Rani Bagmati Railway Station, protesters blocked an express train. In Bhojpur, shops are closed, and the streets are quiet. In Jehanabad, protesters blocked the main Patna-Gaya road (NH-83) near Erki village. The bandh has created significant problems for students taking police recruitment exams. Due to blocked roads, many had to walk to their exam centers and faced difficulties if their centers were far away.
Jehanabad: NH-83 Blocked
In Jehanabad, protesters blocked NH-83 near the Unta Mor area for about 2 hours. The Mahagathbandhan supported the bandh. There were clashes between protesters and police, leading to the arrest of 5 people. The roadblock was cleared after this.
Protests Across Bihar
Protests are ongoing in various parts of Bihar. Political parties, including the RJD and Vikasheel Insaan Party, support the bandh. In Jehanabad, Vaishali, and Sheikhpura, protesters disrupted traffic. In Aurangabad’s Rafi Ganj, Bhim Army joined the strike. In Saharsa, people are also protesting. The administration is on alert and ready to handle any incidents.
Police Deployed in Sensitive Areas
Police have increased patrols and deployed in sensitive areas. In Hajipur and Muzaffarpur, protesters affiliated with RJD and other groups are demonstrating. The administration has urged peaceful protests and warned that any disruptions will be met with strict action.
Madhubani: Traffic Jam
In Madhubani, the bandh caused significant disruption. The Madhubani Station Chowk was blocked, affecting traffic on the Madhubani-Darbhanga route. Many buses to Patna got stuck in the jam. However, essential services like ambulances were kept operational. The administration is on high alert.
Begusarai: NH-31 Blocked
In Begusarai, Bhim Army protesters blocked National Highway 31, causing major disruptions.
Students Facing Trouble
Students traveling for police recruitment exams are experiencing severe issues due to the bandh. Many students had to walk to their exam centers as vehicles were not running. Some students reported they could not find food and were worried they might miss their exams.
Impact on Services
Except for medical, police, and fire services, everything will be closed from 6 AM to 8 PM. Public transportation, shops, banks, markets, factories, schools, and other services will be shut. People are advised to stock up on essentials in advance.
Vaishali: Roadblocks
In Vaishali, roads are blocked with barricades and burning tires, causing significant inconvenience to residents. Motorcycles are also being stopped.
Supreme Court’s Decision on Reservation
Last Thursday, the Supreme Court delivered a landmark judgment on SC/ST reservations, overturning a 2004 decision. The court ruled that states can create sub-categories within SC/ST reservations and mentioned the concept of a creamy layer. Dalit organizations and political parties are protesting against this decision.
