Chamarajanagar district in Karnataka witnessed a complete paralysis of normal life on Thursday as a widespread bandh brought all activities to a standstill. The shutdown was called in protest against a controversial incident where a shoe was thrown at the vehicle of Karnataka High Court Chief Justice Prasanna B Varale.
District Comes to Complete Standstill
The bandh, which received overwhelming response across the district, saw educational institutions, business establishments, and government offices remaining shut throughout the day. Public transport services were severely affected as private buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws stayed off the roads in solidarity with the protest.
What Sparked the Massive Protest?
The unprecedented bandh was triggered by an incident that occurred on Wednesday when Chief Justice Prasanna B Varale's convoy was passing through Chamarajanagar. Protesters allegedly threw a shoe at the judicial vehicle, though it missed its intended target. The act immediately sparked outrage among various community groups and political organizations.
Widespread Impact on Daily Life
The effects of the bandh were visible across the entire district:
- All schools and colleges remained closed
- Commercial establishments, including shops and malls, shut down completely
- Public transportation services came to a grinding halt
- Government offices witnessed minimal attendance
- Roads wore a deserted look throughout the day
Security Measures and Police Response
Authorities had deployed additional police forces across sensitive areas in the district to prevent any untoward incidents. Security was particularly tightened around government buildings, courts, and major public spaces. Police officials maintained strict vigil to ensure the protest remained peaceful while monitoring the situation closely.
Political and Community Reactions
Various political parties and community organizations have condemned the shoe-throwing incident, calling it an affront to the dignity of the judiciary. The bandh received support from multiple quarters, with organizers claiming it was a spontaneous expression of public anger against the disrespect shown toward constitutional authorities.
Meanwhile, investigations into the original incident continue, with police working to identify the individuals responsible for throwing the shoe at the Chief Justice's vehicle. The judiciary has yet to make an official statement about the incident or the subsequent bandh.
