Breaking: Punjab Bandh over Bandi Singhs’ release ends at 2 pm; Traffic and public life return to normal
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, August 21, 2026: The Punjab bandh called by Sikh organisations on Friday to press for the release of Bandi Singhs concluded at 2 pm, following which traffic movement and normal public activity resumed across the state.
The bandh was called to draw the government’s attention to the demand for the release of Bandi Singhs and action in cases involving Sikh prisoners. Protests and demonstrations were held at several places across Punjab, with members of Sikh organisations and supporters gathering to raise the demand.
The impact of the bandh was visible in several cities and towns from the morning, with shops and commercial establishments remaining closed at a number of locations. Protesters demanded concrete steps from the governments for the release of those Bandi Singhs who, according to the protesters, have completed their sentences but continue to remain in jail.
Traffic movement was also affected at several places during the bandh. Gatherings and protests on roads led to disruption or temporary restrictions on movement on some routes.
However, the bandh call was scheduled only until 2 pm. After the deadline ended, the protests were called off and traffic movement gradually returned to normal.
Markets and commercial establishments also began reopening following the conclusion of the bandh, bringing public life back towards normalcy.
The protesting Sikh organisations said the bandh was aimed at highlighting the longstanding demand for the release of Bandi Singhs and urging the governments to take immediate and concrete action on the issue.