The Dalit organisations in Hubballi-Dharwad of Karnataka called for a bandh in the entire district on Thursday, January 9, in protest against Union Home Minister Amit Shah over alleged derogatory remarks against B.R. Ambedkar. Dalit organisations have been protesting on the streets since early morning after Shah's remarks prompted a call for a Hubballi-Dharwad twin city bandh, condemning his statement.
More than 105 organisations, including various Dalit groups, have supported the bandh. Protests have been led by Gurunath Ullikashi, who was seen holding a portrait of Amit Shah. The twin city bandh, which has received widespread backing, has been enforced from 6 am to 6 pm.
Hubballi-Dharwad Bandh Called
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Organisers have appealed to the public to show solidarity by closing shops and lodges that were open earlier in the morning. The bandh has seen significant participation across both cities. Video shared by the news agency PTI shows shutters of shops are down no vehicular moments seen on roads and government buses are parked to participate in bandh.
"Around 3-4 days ago, we got to know about the agitation call given by Dalit organisations and various other organisations in support of it. All our officers locally in each of the police stations have had elaborate meetings with people who are participating or giving calls for today's protest and agitation. Yesterday I held a meeting with all prominent leaders who are involved in the agitation separately in Hubli and Dharwad. They have assured that the agitation will be peaceful and voluntary. So we'll ensure that no forcible closure of any establishment, no forcible stoppage of any vehicle or public movement is done. All essential services are operational...I appeal to all educators and protesters that the protest should be done peacefully," said Police Commissioner N Shashi Kumar.