Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday called for a strict observance of the “Maharashtra Bandh” on August 24 until 2 p.m., with the exception of emergency services which should remain operational.
Speaking at a news conference, Thackeray described the bandh, organised by the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA)—which includes Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and NCP (SP)—as a stand against “perversion” and urged people from all backgrounds to participate.
Mumbai | On tomorrow’s ‘Maharashtra Bandh’ called by MVA, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray says, “Many people have started to feel that girls are not safe in schools. All citizens will take part in tomorrow’s bandh, not just Mahavikas Aghadi. The bandh will continue till 2… pic.twitter.com/sAukxbdo5S— ANI (@ANI) August 23, 2024
The MVA coalition decided to call the bandh after a meeting in Mumbai on Wednesday to protest the alleged sexual assault of two minor girls, aged 4, in a school in Badlapur, Thane district.
The assault took place on August 12 and 13, when a male attendant allegedly assaulted the girls in the school’s washroom.
So, what services are likely to be affected on August 24? Here’s what you need to know:
Will Schools and Colleges Be Closed?
The Shinde-led Maharashtra government has not issued specific directives about school closures. Therefore, schools are expected to remain open, though educational institutions that usually close on Saturdays will follow their regular schedule.
Will Metro and Bus Routes Be Affected?
Similarly, no government notification has been issued regarding metro and bus services. As a result, these services are expected to operate normally.
Will Banks Be Closed?
Banks will be closed on August 24, as it is the fourth Saturday of the month. In accordance with Reserve Bank of India (RBI) regulations, banks are closed on the second and fourth Saturdays, as well as Sundays and holidays.
Withdraw Cases Against Badlapur Protesters: Uddhav
Furthermore, Thackeray, in the same press conference, demanded the withdrawal of charges against those who had protested in Badlapur against the alleged sexual abuse incident. He slammed the Eknath Shinde-led government for its actions against the protesters.
Huge protests erupted in Badlapur, Thane district, on Tuesday, after reports about the alleged incident came to light. The unrest led to clashes with police, resulting in injuries to at least 25 officers and the arrest of 72 individuals. The accused, Akshay Shinde, 23, was arrested on August 17 and remains in custody until August 26. The school management has suspended the principal, a class teacher, and a female attendant.
(With inputs from PTI)
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