BENGALURU, 20 MARCH

The State transport department has assured that public transport services, including RTC buses, will operate as usual during the statewide bandh on 22 March.

The shutdown has been called by Kannada Okkoota, a coalition of pro-Kannada groups, and the Transport Employees' Union to protest the alleged attacks on Kannadigas in Belagavi.

A senior KSRTC official told Salar News on Thursday, "We have been directed to continue operations unless any untoward incident occurs."

The department has also instructed all four road transport corporations to ensure smooth travel, especially for students appearing in the Secondary School Leaving Certificate (SSLC) or Class 10 exams in the state.

Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said in the Assembly that the government cannot support the bandh. "Examinations are already underway. A decision will be taken after consulting officials," he said.

The state police have been put on alert to prevent any disruptions and maintain law and order.