The statewide bandh called by some Muslim religious leaders against the High Court’s decision to ban hijab in classrooms received a good response in north Karnataka on March 17.
Most of the offices, schools, colleges and business organizations remained open in Belagavi. Some shops remained closed in Old Belagavi, Azam Nagar, Shahu Nagar, Bauxite Road and adjoining areas.
As a precaution, police vans have been deployed outside schools and colleges.
The prohibitory orders issued by Deputy Commissioner MG Hiremath under CrPC 144 in the district were withdrawn from the afternoon of March 17. Notably, the DC’s order dated March 14 had described the time period of the restrictions as ‘uncertain’. The removal of restrictions is being seen as removing obstacles in the way of celebrating Holi.
Some shops were closed in Vijayapura, in the old city area, in the vicinity of Jama Masjid and in Old Durga Road. But, most shops in the new city remained open. Buses, commercial vehicles and private vehicles were plying as usual.
Most of the shops, offices and industries remained open in the new Bagalkot, while some offices did not open in the old Bagalkot areas.
In Hubli and Dharwad, the bandh had minimal impact, with most offices remaining open and commuters moving in buses and private vehicles.
The bandh call received a good response in Yadgir and Raichur districts. Businessmen and businessmen from the Muslim community closed their business establishments and shops to express solidarity on the hijab issue.
Only medical shops opened.. Auto drivers of Muslim community did not serve the customers. However, some people, who run their business on handcarts, were seen selling fruits.
“The decision of the Karnataka High Court has troubled us, as it is against Muslims. We pray that God will listen to our complaint and allow us to wear hijab in the days to come,” said Liyak Hussain Badal, district president of Muslim society in Yadgir Hindu,