Karnataka is observing a statewide bandh on Thursday, August 13, over the Cauvery Water Management Authority’s (CWMA) direction to the state to release 12,000 cusecs of water daily to Tamil Nadu for 15 days from August 12.
The shutdown, called by various Kannada organisations, is being observed from 6 am to 6 pm. The protest comes amid renewed tensions over the sharing of Cauvery water between the two states.
What's open and what's closed?
Essential services are expected to continue during the bandh. Banks, hospitals, pharmacies and public transport are likely to remain operational.
Schools and colleges are also expected to function normally. The News Minute, citing the Karnataka Associated Managements of Schools (KAMS), reported that the body withdrew its earlier call for schools to remain shut, citing concerns over disruption to academic schedules.
KAMS has, however, extended moral support to the bandh. School managements, teachers and non-teaching staff have been asked to wear black ribbons or black strips as a mark of solidarity.
In Bengaluru, police have said that schools, colleges, offices, shops and commercial establishments, public transport and other routine activities are expected to continue as usual.
Bengaluru police step up security
Ahead of the shutdown, Bengaluru City Police said precautionary measures have been put in place across the city to maintain law and order. Police deployment, patrolling and security arrangements have been increased at important and sensitive locations.
Authorities have warned that violence, threats, damage to public or private property, obstruction of traffic or essential services, and attempts to take the law into one's own hands will not be tolerated.
The police said such acts would be dealt with "firmly and appropriately in accordance with the law."
"Bengaluru City has always demonstrated a spirit of peace, mutual respect and cooperation. In order to uphold this tradition, all members of organisations and the general public are requested to extend their full cooperation to the Bengaluru City Police and help ensure that the city remains peaceful, safe and normal," the Commissioner said.
Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has maintained that the government has a responsibility to protect Karnataka's farmers while complying with court orders. The government will take a decision after assessing the situation.