Schools close, transport affected in some areas; Jamshedpur largely unaffected
A nationwide strike over reservation policies has led to varied impacts across Jharkhand.
JAMSHEDPUR – The Bharat Bandh called by various groups to protest recent Supreme Court decisions on reservation policies has resulted in a mixed response throughout Jharkhand.
Several districts experienced significant disruptions, with schools closed and public transportation limited.
Ranchi, the state capital, saw most schools shut down and long-distance buses remaining off the roads.
The Ghatsila subdivision, Chaibasa, and parts of Seraikela-Kharsawan and West Singhbhum districts felt pronounced effects of the strike.
Jamshedpur, however, remained largely unaffected, with schools open and public transport operating normally.
Protesters blocked National Highway 33 at Dimna Chowk near Mango and at Kanderbera in Seraikela-Kharsawan.
Baharagora experienced a complete traffic blockade along NH-33.
Chief Minister Hemant Soren cancelled his scheduled visit to Palamu due to the strike.
The bandh, supported by 21 organizations nationwide, protests the Supreme Court’s August 1 decision on SC-ST reservation.
Jharkhand’s ruling coalition of JMM-Congress and RJD, along with Left parties, backed the strike call.
In Dhanbad, roads were blocked and motorcycle rallies were organized, with police deployed to maintain order.
Khadgarha Bus Stand in Ranchi saw a significant reduction in bus services, affecting commuters.
Auto-rickshaws and other intra-city vehicles were also fewer in number across affected areas.
Security measures have been heightened across the state to prevent potential incidents.
The strike highlights ongoing debates surrounding reservation policies and their implementation in India.
