Pune, 3rd November, 2023:- In a democratic country like India, everyone is born with freedom of speech. It is every Indian’s birthright to voice issues, queries, concerns, and grievances. However, raising a voice at the cost of disturbing the economy, the ordinary public’s convenience, emotions, and daily life is unsettling, is what I feel. Simply put, such situations are known as Bandhs or Strikes.
Bandhs in India are often treated as a medium to communicate issues to the authorities. Political parties, communal fraternities, or interest groups usually announce Bandhs to highlight their demand actions on particular issues, and put the authorities on the back foot to address grievances. Bandhs are indeed an influential tool for advocacy, although they frequently come at a sheer cost that usually creates turmoil in society.
So, the real question I would like to ask is, do the Bandhs have an equally strong alternative medium to voice issues that will not harm the human ecosystem?
Let us understand the gravity of this common issue!
During a Bandh, protesters stride the streets with roaring vehicles, block roads, scream slogans, force shop owners/businesses to shut their ‘Dukaans’, and ensure day-to-day activities go on an indefinite pause. The crux of this action is to manipulate the authorities to take the message or demands more seriously.
How do Bandhs impact society on different levels?
Source: Times Citizen
“While Bandhs serve as a medium for voicing issues, they unsettle many lives and negatively impact the economy. Bandhs create fear in the general public and obstruct essential facilities like public transportation, healthcare services, etc. Daily wage workers and small business owners are the ones who face the wrath of Bandhs the most.“
Sameer Desai, Founder & Managing Director
Considering the consequences and possible outcomes of Bandhs, I feel the debate about Bandhs is encircled by complexity and diversity. In a nutshell, protesters should choose a less disturbing path to express their concerns to the authorities. Peaceful protests, digital campaigns, and being open about an issue through established channels can be the efficient means of communication minus any inconveniences. A Bandh undoubtedly is an integral tool to shed light on important issues to bring it to the notice of the government. Although, it shouldn’t obstruct citizens’ inconvenience and create serious, moral, and functional questions. Those who organize Bandhs need to reconsider the way they protest. Their methods shouldn’t harm innocent citizens.
Governments should also become more responsive and responsible towards addressing the issue raised by protesters to avert the repetition of Bandhs. Ultimately, the message is of invaluable significance. But how it is conveyed should not cause a threat to society.