Punjab Bandh Today: Punjab is witnessing a seven-hour shutdown today, August 21, following a call by the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha over a range of demands concerning Sikh prisoners and those detained during recent protests.
The bandh is scheduled to remain in force from 7 am to 2 pm. Morcha convener Bhai Pal Singh France has appealed to people and commercial establishments to support the shutdown.
The main demand centres on the release of Sikh prisoners who have completed their sentences but remain in custody. The organisation is also seeking at least 10 days of parole for Jagtar Singh Hawara, who was convicted in the assassination case of former Punjab Chief Minister Beant Singh.
Roads, rail services likely to be hit
The protest organisers have announced plans to stop movement on national and state highways as well as district roads during the bandh. As a result, commuters using buses, taxis and auto-rickshaws may face difficulties.
Railway movement could also be affected, as protesters have announced plans to occupy railway tracks at various locations. Passengers travelling by train have therefore been advised to check the status of their services before leaving.
Markets, shopping centres, wholesale markets and other commercial establishments have also been urged to remain shut during the protest period.
Educational institutions to remain closed in some areas
Several schools in Chandigarh and Mohali have announced closures amid the bandh-related concerns, while the Private Schools Association has also appealed for institutions to observe a holiday.
Offices and educational establishments administered by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee are also expected to remain closed.
However, there has been no statewide official order announcing the closure of banks or government offices. Similarly, there is no blanket directive to suspend government or private bus services, although road blockades could significantly affect their operations.
Multiple organisations extend support
The shutdown has received backing from the SGPC, Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar), Akali Dal (Waris Punjab De), Dal Khalsa and the Hawara Committee. Several other Panthic organisations, along with farmer and labour groups, have also extended support to the call.
Four key demands behind the protest
The Qaumi Insaaf Morcha has listed four principal issues behind the bandh. These include the release of Sikh prisoners who have completed their sentences, parole for Jagtar Singh Hawara, opposition to the police action during the August 15 protest at the Chandigarh-Mohali border, and the unconditional release of people detained in connection with that incident.
With road and railway blockades planned during the seven-hour protest, commuters and transport operators are expected to face disruptions across several parts of Punjab before normal movement resumes after 2 pm.
