Fri Mar 21 15:48:16 UTC 2025: ## Bengaluru Largely Unaffected by Planned Statewide Bandh

**Bengaluru, March 21, 2025** – A statewide bandh called by Kannada Okkuta for March 22nd in protest of a recent assault on a KSRTC driver in Maharashtra is not expected to significantly disrupt life in Bengaluru, officials confirmed Friday. While some transport services may face minor interruptions, essential services and daily routines are anticipated to proceed normally.

The bandh, announced on February 28th and scheduled from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., has seen less support than initially anticipated. Several Kannada organizations, including factions within Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, have declined to participate.

Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) buses and Namma Metro services will operate as usual. KSRTC services may see localized disruptions, but overall operations are expected to remain largely unaffected. While some auto-rickshaw and cab drivers have voiced support for the bandh, major unions have only offered moral backing, suggesting transport will not be completely paralyzed. Employee associations of both KSRTC and BMTC will continue working despite endorsing the protest.

Eateries will remain open, although some malls and multiplexes may choose to close if protests escalate. Essential services, including hospitals, pharmacies, and medical facilities, will function normally. Train and flight operations are also unaffected. Schools and colleges in Bengaluru will remain open. Deputy Commissioner Jagadeesha G. announced this measure on Friday.

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