Punjab Bandh draws strong response; Market shut, traffic hit in several areas; Watch Video
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, August 21, 2026: The Punjab Bandh called by the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha witnessed a significant response across the state on Friday morning, with markets remaining closed and traffic affected at several places.
The Morcha has called for a shutdown from 7 am to 2 pm to press for the release of Sikh prisoners. It is also demanding parole for Jagtar Singh Hawara to enable him to meet his ailing mother.
The bandh has received support from several Sikh organisations, farmer groups and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), among others.
In Amritsar, police personnel were deployed across the city as the shutdown began. ADCP Harpal Singh said that all markets in the city were closed and adequate police deployment had been made in all areas.
“All markets here are closed. Police are deployed in all areas of Amritsar. The situation is peaceful in the city. All jathebandis have supported this bandh,” the ADCP said.
Meanwhile, the bandh also affected traffic movement in parts of Mohali. Traffic was disrupted on the Kharar-Mohali flyover near Sunny Enclave following the shutdown call.
In Phase 7, Mohali, the impact of the bandh was also visible at a major traffic intersection, where a few supporters attempted to block traffic and stopped several vehicles from moving ahead.
Police remained deployed at key locations to maintain law and order and ensure smooth movement of essential traffic. The situation was reported to be peaceful in Amritsar, although the shutdown affected normal commercial activity and traffic movement in some areas.