A bandh is a general strike. In this case it was called by the Tamil Nadu ruling party (DMK). It is supposedly in support of the Tamil people of Sri Lanka who are currently suffering greatly in being caught in the war between the SL government and the LTTE (Tamil Tigers). Unfortunately it is more likely a political stunt to try and get support during the current general election campaign.
Anyway if a bandh is called by the ruling party they have the power to stop public transport etc and all shops/businesses shut. Most companies decided to shut as there are often paid goons who patrol the streets "enforcing" the strike. However in Chennai city this is less common. My employer decided to stay open and I had no problems going to work.
Large companies such as Infosys and CTS decided to shut, although they have told their employees to go to work on Saturday instead. (Not many enforcable employment rights here!!). I was a bit nervous as to what might happen, especially when you hear stories of what goes on during bandh's in neighbouring Kerala. There, nobody ventures outside during a bandh for fear of intimidation and violence.
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