In response to the prolonged Cauvery river water dispute, over 104 pro-Kannada organisations, led by Vatal Nagaraj, have declared a statewide shutdown in Karnataka on September 29. The bandh, indicative of the escalating unrest, has seen unprecedented backing, including support from the Kannada film industry which will cease all activities that day.
The Karnataka Board of Film Commerce has unanimously decided to halt filming in solidarity. NM Suresh, its president, affirmed the industry’s steadfast support and announced the participation of all its actors in the protest.
As the shutdown approaches, transport disruptions are anticipated. National highways might be closed, and train and flight operations could be affected. Various associations, from the Ola and Uber Drivers Association to the Karnataka Industries Association, have endorsed the protest, forecasting a total halt across the state on Friday.
Political tensions are evident as the BJP and JDS accuse the state government of negligence. While former Chief Minister Yeddyurappa urges dialogue with Tamil Nadu’s CM, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Sivakumar advocates for unity and mediation from the central government.
To preempt any disorder, the Karnataka government plans to deploy thousands of security personnel on the day of the bandh.
Coincidentally, the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) will convene in Delhi on the same day to deliberate on the water sharing matter, with representatives from Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry. This could play a pivotal role in the dispute’s trajectory.
Concurrently, the Mandya region observes persistent farmer protests. One notable farmer, symbolising the agricultural distress, poured dung water over himself as an act of protest.
As September 29 looms, the entire state awaits, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the longstanding Cauvery issue.
