21/08/2026
Punjab Bandh Over ‘Bandi Singhs’ Release Demand
Punjab is witnessing a seven-hour bandh on Friday as the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha (QIM) presses for the release of Sikh prisoners, referred to as “Bandi Singhs”. The shutdown is being observed from 7 am to 2 pm, with markets and commercial establishments shut at several places and traffic movement affected. The bandh also follows the August 15 confrontation between protesters and police at the Chandigarh-Mohali border.
The shutdown is affecting normal activity across parts of the state, with blockades reported at several locations and commuters facing inconvenience. Private schools have declared a holiday, while Panjab University has postponed certain examinations scheduled for August 21 and rescheduled them for September 10. Government schools in Punjab remain open, while essential services, including medical facilities, are being kept outside the scope of the shutdown.
Security has been tightened across Punjab, particularly at sensitive Chandigarh-Mohali border points, with police maintaining a heightened presence and barricading at key locations. Besides demanding the release of “Bandi Singhs”, the QIM has sought parole for Jagtar Singh Hawara and the release of prisoners who, according to the Morcha, have completed their sentences but remain incarcerated. The ongoing bandh has brought renewed focus to these long-standing demands.
Report by Muskan
Video by Srashti
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