India: Unrest in Bengaluru amid nationwide strike June 12

Event

A nationwide strike (locally referred to as “bandh”) is taking place on Monday, June 12. The protest was called for by Kannada Okkoota, an umbrella organization fighting for the resolution of a number of crises in the state of Karnataka. However, the bandh is reportedly having a limited effect, with public transit services operating normally and schools open.

Various protests are taking place in Bengaluru. Firstly, a march is being held from the City Hall to Freedom Park and protesters are also reportedly making their way to the Vidhana Soudha building. Clashes between protesters and security forces have been reported in the cities of Kolar, Chikkaballapur, and Anekal. A few stone-pelting demonstrators have been arrested, as well as an organization leader. Farmers set tires on fire in the city of Belagavi.

Context

Kannada organizations are demanding a farm loan waiver program, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s intervention in the Mahadayi River water dispute, and a permanent solution to the problem of water scarcity in arid areas.

Advice

Individuals present in India are advised to avoid all gatherings and to follow any instructions issued by authorities.

As a reminder, some Western governments advise their citizens against nonessential travel to the west of Jammu and Kashmir state and against all travel to the border region with Pakistan (direct vicinity of the Line of Control) due to the high threat of terrorism.