Bengaluru: The two-day nation-wide bundh called for by the various left organizations failed to evoke good response in the state. Except for government services, all other services are available. The KSRTC and BMTC services were shut down while Metro services are available in the city.
According to sources, no untoward incidents or violence has been reported from any part of the state so far, although labour unions are holding a protest in many places.
In Bengaluru, hotels and other commercial establishments were opened in the morning as is usual.
In Kodagu, a BJP stronghold, the bundh evoked a very poor response and normal life was unaffected.
In Mysuru, the second largest city of the state, only a few buses are in operation while auto services are available. Schools and colleges are shut down as per the DC’s order, while labour unions are holding protests in the Nanjanagud industrial area.
In all the districts of the North and Hyderabad Karnataka, the people’s support for the bundh is very poor.
Security stepped up
DGP Neelamani Raju has directed the police officials to make sure that adequate police force is in place in the wake of the two-day nation-wide bundh, on January 8 and 9.
A total of 54,000 police are in place across the state to ensure the safety of the public.
In Bengaluru, 10,000 personnel including 15 DCPs, 31 ACPs, 143 Inspectors and 354 SIs have been deputed. As many as 30 KSRP platoons, 30 CAR platoons, 900 home guards, 270 Hoysalas and 1300 cheetah bikes have been pressed into action.
Bundh evokes poor response in coastal districts
Mangaluru/Udupi: As January 8, the first proposed day of the nation-wide bundh begins, the Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts saw a few shuttered stores and mostly empty streets.
There seems to be a mixed response to bundh call, especially in the DK district as shops in Central Market were seen open and people were up and about early in the morning. Some colleges that have scheduled exams during this time have also not cancelled the tests.
A few buses were also seen plying on the roads, however, their passengers were scarce. Autorickshaws were also not seen on the roads, except for a few waiting at the stands.
As of now, it doesn’t seem like life in the twin districts is affected much. The situation might change, however, as the day progresses.
The police, as always, are present and alert to prevent any untoward incidents and to maintain law and order in the districts.
