Telangana Bandh on October 18: Will Schools and Colleges Remain Closed?

The Telangana state is gearing up for a complete bandh on October 18 called by various Backward Class (BC) associations to demand 42% reservation for BCs. The movement, led by BC JAC chairman and MP R. Krishnaiah aims to draw the attention of both the state and central governments toward the long-pending demand for fair representation of BCs in education, jobs and politics.

Earlier, the bandh was planned for October 14, but it was postponed to October 18. Now with major political parties like the BRS and BJP extending their support, the bandh is expected to have a wide impact across the state.

Many are wondering how this will affect schools, colleges and offices. As per reports, the bandh is likely to disrupt normal activities, and educational institutions may announce holidays in advance. If that happens, students will get three consecutive holidays Saturday, Sunday and Monday (for Diwali). This means a long festive weekend for students and teachers.

R. Krishnaiah stated that BCs form over 50% of Telangana’s population, but their reservation percentage remains low. He emphasized that despite 76 years of independence, BCs are still fighting for their constitutional rights. He added that the High Court’s stay order on 42% reservations was deeply disappointing and said that BCs would continue their struggle until the issue is addressed in the state legislature.

The bandh’s main goal is to send a strong message about BC unity and the need for justice. BC leaders believe that this protest will pressure both state and central governments to take legal action in favor of increased reservations.