Punjab bandh today: Schools, highways shut for 7 hours, disruptions likely
The Qaumi Insaaf Morcha has called for a seven-hour 'Punjab Bandh' to demand the release of Sikh prisoners, leading to the closure of schools and disruptions on highways. While essential services and medical emergencies remain exempt, the protest is expected to significantly impact daily life in the state.
Why it matters
Large-scale civil protests in Punjab reflect ongoing socio-political grievances that can disrupt regional infrastructure and public services.
The seven-hour Punjab Bandh call given by the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha for the release of Sikh prisoners is likely to cause disruptions in the state on Friday.The morcha, which has gathered support from several religious, social, farmer, employees organisations and Sikh political parties, has decided to lay siege to highways and railway tracks, and shut down commercial establishments across the state from 7 am to 2 pm.While Punjab education secretary Sonali Giri said no instructions had been issued for the closure of educational institutions, the Association of Private Unaided Schools, and Federation of Private Schools and Association of Punjab advised their members to close their institutes on Friday for the safety of students and teachers. However, colleges and universities run by the state and Centre have not issued any holiday notice.To avoid inconvenience to students, Panjab University announced postponement of exams to be held on Friday.
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