Karnataka Bandh: Schools to Remain Open Amidst Cauvery Water Dispute

Several Kannada organizations have called for a statewide bandh in Karnataka on Thursday, August 13, concerning the escalating Cauvery water-sharing dispute with Tamil Nadu. The protest follows a directive from the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) mandating Karnataka to release 12,000 cusecs of water daily to Tamil Nadu for 15 days, starting August 12.

What Happened

The bandh, announced by various Kannada organizations, aims to pressure the government against releasing water to Tamil Nadu. Vatal Nagaraj, convener of Kannada Chalavali Vatal Paksha, expressed determination to proceed with the strike, urging public support. In Mandya, the Mandya District Farmers' Welfare Protection Committee organized a protest, calling the CWMA directive a threat to Karnataka's water security and urging the government not to release water.

Key Facts

• A Karnataka bandh has been called for Thursday, August 13.
• The bandh is related to the Cauvery water-sharing dispute between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
• The Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) directed Karnataka to release 12,000 cusecs of water daily to Tamil Nadu for 15 days from August 12.
• Vatal Nagaraj, convener of Kannada Chalavali Vatal Paksha, is a key figure supporting the bandh.
• The Mandya District Farmers' Welfare Protection Committee also planned protests.

What Happens Next

Despite the bandh, schools are scheduled to operate as usual on August 13, according to the Karnataka Associated Managements of Schools (KAMS). KAMS had initially considered a closure but rescinded the decision to avoid academic disruption, though they will extend moral support by asking staff to wear black ribbons. Essential services, including banks, pharmacies, public transport, and hospitals, are anticipated to remain unaffected from 6 am to 6 pm on August 13. Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar stated the government's commitment to protecting farmers while abiding by court orders, indicating a discussion with the irrigation minister and officials. The State Water Resource Minister confirmed that the Chief Minister would hold a meeting with senior advocates and officials to strategize legal responses.