BENGALURU'S 2023 PROTESTS

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: In the dynamic protests of 2023, Bengaluru transfor ms into a vibrant stage for diverse voices and causes.

The Kuki community's impassioned calls for justice amid Manipur's strife resonate, spotlighting human rights issues locally.

Simultaneously, the city became a global rallying point, echoing the collective call for solidarity with Palestine during the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Palestine (November 2023) The escalating violence in Palestine during the Israeli-Palestinian conflict triggered a wave of solidarity protests worldwide.

Bengaluru witnessed a massive rally, drawing over 10,000 people. Chanting slogans of "Free Palestine" and holding Palestinian flags, the diverse crowd demanded an end to the occupation and human rights violations.

Activists staged a march symbolising solidarity with Palestine through watermelon-themed placards.

During the demonstration, from Brigade Road to Church Street, the activists clarified they were protesting atrocities against Palestinian civilians.

The city also witnessed a powerful gathering of over 2000 people near MG Road, demanding freedom for Palestine and an end to Gaza bombings.

Manipur (August 2023)

In August 2023, Freedom Park resonated with the cries of the Kuki community.

Thousands, including those displaced by the ongoing violence in Manipur, gathered to demand justice and a peaceful future.

Placards emblazoned with slogans demanding the restoration of their rights, their land, and most importantly, their dignity painted a picture of their plight.

Cauvery (Sep 2023)

On September 26, 2023, Bengaluru echoed with a citywide bandh by the Mahadayi water dispute, a longstanding conflict between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

Chanting "Kaveri Onde Karnataka Kade" (Cauvery Water for Karnataka), a diverse group of protestors, including farmers and activists, filled the streets.

The Supreme Court's order for Karnataka to release water intensified tensions, with protestors arguing their depleted reservoirs were ignored.

The bandh symbolised collective identity, demanding fair resource allocation and urging the Karnataka government to safeguard citizens' rights.

Beyond disruption, it spotlighted historical injustices and underscored the deep-rooted fight for fundamental rights like water.