Karnataka Bandh on August 13 Likely to Be Called Off

The proposed Karnataka Bandh on August 13, which was called to protest the release of Cauvery River water to Tamil Nadu, is now facing uncertainty as several pro-Kannada and farmers’ organisations have indicated they may withdraw their support.

With the state receiving good rainfall in recent weeks, many organisations believe the Cauvery water issue is not currently critical. As a result, support for the bandh has weakened significantly. Mr. Sara Govind, who is associated with Vatal Nagaraj’s faction, has made it clear that he does not support the bandh.

Earlier, Karnataka Rakshana Vedike President Narayana Gowda had also announced that his organisation would not participate in the protest. Reports further suggest that the Praveen Shetty faction is also likely to distance itself from the bandh.

The Ola-Uber Association has also not extended its support to the proposed bandh so far. Several organisations have expressed concerns that a statewide shutdown would adversely affect Karnataka’s economy and severely impact daily wage workers, farmers, street vendors, small businesses, and those dependent on the hospitality sector.

As more organisations withdraw their support, public opposition to the bandh has also grown. Given the declining backing from key groups, the August 13 Karnataka Bandh is likely to be called off. However, an official announcement from the organisers is still awaited, and the final decision is expected to be made in the coming days.