A Punjab bandh called by the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha, demanding the release of Sikh prisoners, partially disrupted normal life in Ludhiana on Friday, with several major markets observing a shutdown and protesters blocking important highway stretches for several hours.
The police commissioner said the bandh remained completely peaceful and no untoward incident was reported. The most significant impact was witnessed on the Jalandhar-Ludhiana National Highway, where protesters blocked the road near Ladhowal police station, bringing traffic movement to a halt. A group of Nihangs also blocked a stretch near Samrala Chowk, resulting in long queues of vehicles and leaving commuters stranded. “We believe in non-violence and are observing the protest peacefully. The police maintained a strong presence across the city to prevent any untoward incident and manage traffic diversions. Commissioner of police Swapan Sharma, accompanied by senior police officers, reviewed the law-and-order arrangements at various locations. Police teams remained deployed at key locations to monitor the situation and ensure that the protest did not escalate.
Around 1,200 police personnel were deployed at sensitive points and along major roads during the bandh.
Gurdeep Singh, a representative of a Sikh organisation, said various Panthic groups had come together to press for the release of Sikh prisoners who, according to the protesters, continue to remain incarcerated despite completing their sentences. We have received good support from shopkeepers,” he said.
