Punjab Bandh on August 21 has received support from SGPC, teachers, farmers and employee groups over demands for the release of Sikh prisoners.
A statewide shutdown has been announced in Punjab for August 21, with several organisations extending their support to the call. The Punjab Bandh has been announced by leaders of the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha, who are seeking the release of Sikh prisoners who have completed their sentences.
The Punjab Bandh is also linked to demands concerning Sikh prisoners and the case of Jagtar Singh Hawara, who is serving a sentence in connection with the assassination of former Punjab Chief Minister Beant Singh. Morcha leaders have demanded parole for Hawara as well as the release of prisoners who have completed their prescribed sentences.
According to information available, farmer and employee organisations, teacher groups and local bodies have also backed the shutdown. The participation of multiple organisations is expected to make the Punjab Bandh a significant statewide protest.
Teacher Organisations Back the Shutdown
Several joint teacher organisations have announced their support for the August 21 shutdown. Teachers have reportedly communicated their decision to the District Education Officers (DEOs) through letters, expressing solidarity with the demands raised by the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha.
The support from teacher organisations adds another major group to the list of bodies backing the Punjab Bandh.
SGPC Announces Support
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has also announced its support for the shutdown. SGPC president Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami said the committee’s internal committee meeting, which was scheduled for August 21, has been postponed to August 22.
The meeting will now take place at 11 am at the SGPC headquarters. Dhami said the SGPC has consistently worked for the release of Sikh prisoners and supports efforts aimed at securing their freedom.
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He also said that SGPC offices and institutions under the committee will remain closed on August 21 in support of the Punjab Bandh.
Shiromani Akali Dal (Punran Surjit) Supports Call
Shiromani Akali Dal (Punran Surjit) president Giani Harpreet Singh has also backed the August 21 shutdown. He said the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha’s call is aimed at highlighting the demand for the release of imprisoned Sikhs.
According to the party, the protest is also against alleged torture and cases registered against leaders following the peaceful march held by the front on August 15.
Harpreet Singh urged people who support the cause of justice to cooperate with the shutdown and participate in the protest.
What Are the Main Demands?
The key demands associated with the August 21 protest include:
Release of Sikh prisoners who have completed their sentences.
Granting parole to Jagtar Singh Hawara.
Opposition to alleged action against leaders and participants of the August 15 march.
Raising the issue of the long-pending release of Sikh prisoners.
With support coming from the SGPC, teacher organisations, farmer and employee groups and other bodies, the Punjab Bandh is likely to draw attention across the state on August 21.
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