Karnataka Bandh and Cauvery Water Dispute
Table of Contents
Introduction
The state of Karnataka is witnessing a bandh (strike) today in protest against the Cauvery water sharing dispute. The bandh has led to significant disruptions, including flight cancellations and detentions of protestors. Here are the live updates on the situation:
Flight Cancellations
- Due to the Karnataka Bandh, 22 incoming flights and 22 outbound flights from Kempegowda International Airport have been canceled today. These cancellations are attributed to operational issues, and passengers were informed in advance.
Protests and Detentions
- Over 200 protestors from pro-Kannada organizations have been detained by the Bengaluru Police. Protests have been reported from various parts of the city, including the airport and the border of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
Section 144 Imposed
- Bengaluru Commissioner of Police, B Dayananda, announced that Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure has been imposed in the city. This measure restricts public gatherings and movements.
Legal Challenge
- Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated that the direction of the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee to release water to Tamil Nadu from September 30 to October 15 will be challenged before the Supreme Court. The ongoing protests were triggered by the Supreme Court’s decision on September 21 to uphold the Cauvery Water Management Authority’s directive to release water to Tamil Nadu.
Impact on Services
- With over 1,900 associations supporting the bandh, non-essential shops, particularly in southern Karnataka, including Bengaluru, are expected to remain closed. Essential services like hospitals, ambulances, and pharmacies will continue to operate.
- All schools and colleges in Bengaluru have been closed in light of the bandh.
- Cab aggregators, such as Ola and Uber, have extended their support to the bandh, with many drivers participating in the protests.
The Cauvery water sharing dispute has sparked widespread protests and disruptions in Karnataka, highlighting the contentious issue of water allocation between states.
Source: Indian Express – Karnataka Bandh News Live Updates
