Overview
- The Qaumi Insaaf Morcha called a seven‑hour statewide bandh from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on August 21 to press for parole and release of Sikh prisoners known as 'Bandi Singhs'.
- Participation varied across districts with markets and transport shut in places such as Faridkot, Moga and parts of Mohali while other areas and many government services remained functional.
- Security held after earlier clashes at the Chandigarh‑Mohali border on August 15 when police used water cannon and tear gas and FIRs and arrests followed.
- Panjab University postponed exams to September 10, many private schools closed and organisers said hospitals, ambulances and other emergency services would be exempt from the shutdown.
- The demand ties back to long‑running protests since 2023 and could raise further political pressure by showing strong institutional support from bodies like the SGPC while the state government emphasises continuity of official services.