Chandigarh: Security was tightened across Punjab on Friday in view of the Punjab bandh call given by the Kaumi Insaf Morcha over the release of Sikh prisoners and other demands. Police deployment was increased in sensitive areas, while Chandigarh also stepped up surveillance along its borders with Punjab.
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) kept its headquarters, educational institutions and other establishments closed in support of the bandh.
Patiala Superintendent of Police Mohit Aggarwal said there was no reason for concern and that the bandh remained largely peaceful. Government schools opened at their scheduled time, while several private schools remained closed.
The Kaumi Insaf Morcha had called for a shutdown from 7 am to 2 pm, seeking the release of Sikh prisoners who have completed their sentences, parole for Jagtar Singh Hawara and justice in cases related to sacrilege and police firing. The Morcha is also protesting police action and FIRs registered against its members following the August 15 protest.
Markets shut in several areas
The impact of the bandh varied across Punjab. In Mohali and Chandigarh, several commercial establishments decided to remain closed until afternoon amid the prevailing tension.
In Rupnagar district, markets in Anandpur Sahib, Nangal and Rupnagar were initially open, with the bandh having limited impact in the morning. The situation changed around 10.30 am, when groups of Nihang Sikhs marched through the markets and appealed to shopkeepers to close their establishments in support of the bandh. Several traders subsequently pulled down their shutters.
In Dhuri, the bandh received a strong response, with most markets remaining closed during the designated period. Shops selling essential goods were among those that remained open. Morcha leaders also marched through the town and thanked traders for supporting the shutdown.
Police arrangements were strengthened in Dhuri, with SHO Ramandeep Singh Bawa ensuring police presence at key intersections.
The Morcha has said that essential services, hospitals, medical staff, ambulances, the armed forces, wedding and funeral attendees, and foreign travellers would be exempt from the shutdown.
