Today, a 12-hour nationwide shutdown is taking place in protest of the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on SC/ST reservations. The court decided to exclude the ‘creamy layer’ or economically weaker sections from SC/ST reservations, leading to widespread demonstrations.
Prominent Dalit leaders, including Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati, Bhim Sena head Chandrashekhar Azad, and Adivasi Party leader Mohan Lal Rot, have endorsed the shutdown. Many Congress members and other political figures have also joined the protest.
The shutdown has caused major disruptions, especially in Bihar, where chaotic scenes led to police intervention. Ports, trains, and bus services are affected, while schools and colleges remain open and essential services have been suspended.
This protest, organized by the ‘Sankaran Bachao Struggle Samiti,’ responds to the Supreme Court’s decision impacting SC/ST reservation policies.