Authorities maintain peace during Punjab shutdown demanding parole for convicted leader

Chandigarh, August 21 – Law enforcement agencies across Punjab have reported a calm environment as the state observes a seven‑hour shutdown aimed at securing the release of Sikh detainees who have already served their terms. The strike began at 9 a.m. and will conclude at 2 p.m., with heightened security measures in place to avert any disturbances.

The protest is driven by an alliance of Sikh religious groups and political bodies, who also seek parole for Jagat Singh Hawara, serving a life sentence for alleged involvement in the 1995 murder of former Chief Minister Beant Singh.

Despite broad support from farmer organisations such as the Shirmoni Gurudwara Management Committee and the Shirmoni Akali Dal, the morning impact of the shutdown has been only partial. No reports of violence have emerged, according to senior police officials.

The demand follows a prior episode on August 15 at the Mohali border, where security personnel employed batons, tear‑gas and water cannons to disperse demonstrators marching toward the Governor's residence.

Organisers have called for the suspension of commercial activity, including market operations, toll booths and railway services, until the scheduled end of the strike. They have appealed to traders and merchants to honour the shutdown while ensuring that emergency medical services remain uninterrupted.

Students travelling for exams, marriages, funerals or overseas trips are exempted from the closure. Private bus operators in multiple towns have pledged support, and many private educational institutes have announced a shutdown as a safety measure.

Public schools in the Abohar area of Firozpur district continue to operate normally, whereas Patiala has seen a strong police presence at Khanda Chowk. Police officials have reiterated that participation in the shutdown is voluntary and will not impede essential work or travel.