Tight security at Chandigarh-Mohali border points as Qaumi Insaf Morcha's Punjab Bandh kicks in
The Qaumi Insaf Morcha has called for a 'Punjab Bandh' to demand the release of Sikh prisoners, leading to widespread business closures and tightened security across Punjab and the Chandigarh-Mohali border. While essential services remain operational, the protest has caused significant disruptions to daily life, including school closures and rescheduled university exams.
Why it matters
The protest highlights ongoing tensions regarding the release of high-profile convicts and reflects the significant influence of various political and farmers' organizations in mobilizing public dissent in the region.
Shops and markets remained shut at some places in Punjab on Friday (August 21, 2026) morning while security was tightened at the Chandigarh-Mohali border points in the wake of a 'Punjab Bandh' call given by the Qaumi Insaf Morcha to press for the release of 'Bandi Singhs' (Sikh prisoners).
The call for the bandh has been given from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Heavy police deployment has been made at many places in the State, including Amritsar, Ludhiana and Jalandhar, to maintain law and order.
Chandigarh Police personnel, including the Rapid Action Force (RAF), have been deputed along the barricades put up at the Mohali-Chandigarh border points.
Supporters of the Qaumi Insaf Morcha parked their vehicles at several places, including Mohali and Patiala, to create blockades, causing inconvenience to the commuters.
Shops at several places, including Sangrur and Mohali, remained shut. However, medical shops remained open.
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