Karnataka Bandh on March 22: Why It’s Happening, What’s Open & Closed in Bengaluru

Karnataka is bracing for a statewide bandh on March 22, 2025, as several farmer and pro-Kannada organizations unite to protest against multiple issues, including power tariff hikes, Mahadayi river water project delays, and agricultural distress. The bandh is expected to significantly impact daily life, especially in Bengaluru, prompting concerns about traffic, transport, and essential services.

Why Is Karnataka Bandh?

🧑‍🌾 Farmer & Pro-Kannada Protest Movements

• The bandh has been called by Raitha Sanghas (farmer unions) and Kannada activists.
• Key demands include:
  • Rollback of electricity tariff hikes that have affected irrigation and farming.
  • Accelerated work on the Mahadayi and Upper Krishna river water projects.
  • Compensation and support for farmers suffering due to crop loss and loan burdens.

⚠️ State Government Criticism

• Protesters accuse the state government of being insensitive to rural and linguistic issues.
• They demand urgent policy interventions and financial relief.

What’s Closed on March 22?

🚫 Expected to Be Shut

• Shops, markets, and local businesses in protest-heavy areas.
• Educational institutions, especially schools and colleges in rural and semi-urban zones.
• Private transport services like cabs, autos, and private buses may participate in solidarity.

🚌 Partial Impact on Public Transport

• BMTC and KSRTC bus services could see partial disruption.
• Metro services in Bengaluru are expected to run, but with additional security.

🏥 Essential Services Remain Open

• Hospitals, pharmacies, emergency services, and petrol pumps will operate as usual.

What’s Open?

✅ No Full Shutdown in Bengaluru

• Malls, IT offices, restaurants, and airports in Bengaluru will likely remain open.
• Many IT companies have issued advisories for work-from-home or staggered timings.

👮 Security & Precautionary Measures

• Heavy police deployment in sensitive districts and city centers.
• Section 144 may be imposed in select areas if protests escalate.

How to Stay Prepared

🔔 Travel & Commute Planning

• Avoid non-essential travel and check traffic updates before heading out.
• If you rely on buses or autos, keep backup options like ride apps or metro in mind.

📱 Stay Updated via News & Alerts

• Follow updates from local authorities, traffic police, and news apps for real-time information.

Conclusion

The Karnataka Bandh on March 22 is more than a symbolic protest—it highlights deep-rooted grievances among farmers and regional groups. While major urban centers like Bengaluru may not fully shut down, disruptions are expected in transport and daily routines. Citizens are advised to stay alert, plan ahead, and monitor updates as the bandh unfolds.

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