Chandigarh, August 21: Several Sikh religious and political organizations have called for a statewide shutdown in Punjab on Friday, demanding the release of Sikh prisoners who have completed their sentences. The shutdown is set to last until 2 PM, and heavy security measures have been implemented across the state.
Despite support from farmer organizations like the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar), and Waris Punjab De, the impact of the shutdown was only partial in the morning. A senior police officer reported that there have been no incidents of violence so far.
This shutdown follows the use of force by security personnel to disperse protesters at the Mohali border on August 15, which included baton charges, tear gas, and water cannons. The demonstrators were attempting to march towards the Governor’s residence in Chandigarh.
Led by members of the ‘Kauami Insaaf Morcha’, the march also aims to demand parole for Jagtar Singh Hawara, who is serving a life sentence related to the assassination of Chief Minister Beant Singh in 1995.
The organizers of the shutdown have called for protests on railway tracks, highways, and toll collection centers, urging shopkeepers and traders to support the initiative. They have also requested protesters to maintain peace and not disrupt emergency medical services.
Students and individuals traveling for exams, weddings, funerals, or international trips are exempt from the shutdown. Meanwhile, ‘Kauami Insaaf Morcha’ activists are stationed on state and national highways to halt traffic.
Many private bus operators in various towns and cities have supported the call. As a precaution, several private educational institutions have announced closures. Additionally, markets, factories, and commercial establishments in many areas have decided to remain closed until 2 PM.
While government educational institutions are operating normally, student attendance has been low. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee has closed its offices and institutions in a show of solidarity and postponed its scheduled executive meeting.
Coordinator of the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, Sarwan Singh Pandher, stated that markets and institutions would remain closed for the seven-hour duration of the shutdown.
Manpreet Singh Ayali, a supporter of ‘Waris Punjab De’, questioned, “Why are Sikhs still imprisoned despite completing their sentences? They should be released.”
During the statewide shutdown called by Sikh organizations and the SGPC, government schools in Abohar, Fazilka district, remained open and operated normally.
In Patiala, heavy police forces were deployed at Khanda Chowk following the shutdown call. Patiala City SP Mohit Agarwal mentioned that police have engaged in discussions with the relevant organizations regarding the shutdown. He stated that the shutdown is voluntary, and those who do not wish to participate will not be hindered in their work or travel. He also noted that discussions have been held with organizations about transportation arrangements, ensuring that people can travel for essential tasks.
–
Leave a Comment