Amritsar observes near-complete shutdown on Ghallughara Day
Dal Khalsa Says Sikh wounds of 1984 remain unhealed
Babushahi Bureau
Amritsar (Punjab), June 6, 2026: Most markets across Amritsar remained closed on Friday in response to a bandh call given by Dal Khalsa to mark Ghallughara Day, commemorating the victims of the June 1984 military operation at the Golden Temple complex.
Dal Khalsa leaders marched through Hall Gate Bazaar and appealed to traders to observe the shutdown. However, a large number of shops had already remained closed in support of the call, resulting in a significant impact on commercial activity across the city.
Speaking to the media, Dal Khalsa leader Paramjit Singh said the memories of the 1984 events continue to deeply affect the Sikh community. He stated that Sikhs across the world observe the anniversary each year to remember those who lost their lives and to express their continuing anguish over the events of June 1984.
Paramjit Singh said Dal Khalsa traditionally holds a march on June 5 and observes a bandh on June 6 to pay tribute to the victims. He added that the organisation had been in touch with traders and residents over the past several days, seeking their support for the observance. According to him, the response from the business community and the public was encouraging, with most markets remaining shut throughout the day.
He clarified that essential services, including hospitals, medical stores and emergency facilities, were exempted from the bandh to ensure that residents did not face inconvenience.
Referring to the message delivered from Sri Akal Takht Sahib earlier in the day, Paramjit Singh said the address not only remembered the martyrs of 1984 but also highlighted contemporary challenges facing the Sikh Panth and called for unity within the community.
Meanwhile, the police administration maintained heightened security across the city in view of the bandh call. Officials said a large number of security personnel were deployed at sensitive locations and major market areas to ensure peace and prevent any untoward incident.
Police authorities stated that the shutdown remained peaceful, with no reports of disturbances. They added that traders largely cooperated with the bandh call and law and order remained under control throughout the day.