Chandigarh:
The Qaumi Insaaf Morcha has announced a Punjab bandh on August 21, demanding the release of Sikh prisoners who have completed their sentences, parole for Jagjit Singh Hawara and action against the police crackdown on protesters at the Mohali-Chandigarh border on August 15.
The bandh has been announced from 7 am to 2 pm, during which the Morcha has appealed for the closure of markets, commercial establishments, schools, colleges and road and rail transport across the state.
The bandh has received support from several Sikh and other organisations, including the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar), Akali Dal (Waris Punjab De), Dal Khalsa and Hawara Committee, besides various farmer, labour and social organisations
The SGPC has announced that all its educational institutions and offices will remain closed on August 21. Several private schools in Mohali have also declared a holiday in view of the bandh.
The Morcha has appealed to the public to observe the bandh peacefully and voluntarily. It has also called for the suspension of bus, auto and taxi services and disruption of rail traffic during the bandh period.
Key Demands
The Morcha has demanded the immediate release of Sikh prisoners who have completed their legal sentences and are still lodged in different jails.
It has also sought at least 10 days’ parole for Jagjit Singh Hawara on humanitarian and legal grounds.
Another major demand is action against the police action taken against Qaumi Insaaf Morcha protesters at the Chandigarh-Mohali border on August 15, along with the unconditional release of those detained during the incident.
Meanwhile, authorities have stepped up security arrangements across the state to maintain law and order during the bandh.
