Punjab Bandh on August 21: What will remain closed, what will stay open
Ravi Jakhu
Mohali (Punjab), August 19, 2026: The Qaumi Insaaf Morcha has called for a Punjab bandh on August 21, demanding the release of Sikh prisoners who, according to the Morcha, have completed their sentences but remain in jail. The bandh is scheduled from 7 am to 2 pm.
The announcement was made at a press conference in Mohali on Wednesday following a meeting of Morcha leaders.
Why has the bandh been called?
The Morcha’s main demand is the release of Bandi Singhs, a term used by Sikh organisations for prisoners whose release is being sought after completion of their sentences or on other grounds.
The Morcha has also raised the issue of parole for Jagtar Singh Hawara and the cases registered against its supporters. Leaders alleged that several protesters were booked under provisions of the Arms Act and that 17 people were arrested.
The Morcha also cited the events of August 15, when its supporters attempted to march towards the Punjab Governor’s residence in Chandigarh. Police action during the protest, including the use of water cannons and tear gas, has become another point of contention.
What is expected to remain closed?
The Morcha has appealed for the closure of shops, markets, factories, educational institutions and transport services during the bandh.
It has also said that road and rail traffic could be affected. However, the actual impact may vary from district to district depending on local participation and administrative arrangements.
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has backed the bandh and announced that its offices and institutions will remain closed on August 21. Its scheduled Interim Committee meeting has also been shifted to August 22.
What will remain open?
The Morcha has said that emergency and essential services will remain exempt from the shutdown.
These include:
- Hospitals and medical services
- Medical stores
- Ambulances
- Emergency travel
- People travelling for weddings and other essential religious or family functions
- Airport-bound passengers
The Morcha has appealed to people to observe the bandh peacefully and has said it does not want the public to face unnecessary inconvenience.
What about trains and buses?
Transport is likely to be one of the key areas affected by the bandh. Morcha leaders have announced that government and private buses will not be allowed to operate during the shutdown and have also spoken about affecting rail services.
However, the extent of disruption will depend on developments on August 21. Rail passengers and people dependent on public transport should check the latest status before travelling.
The bandh is expected to draw attention across Punjab because it combines the long-standing demand over Sikh prisoners with fresh tensions following the August 15 protest.