Punjab bandh Highlights: The Punjab bandh called by the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha (QIM) began on Friday with markets and several private institutions remaining closed across the state. The shutdown has been called over demands for the release of Sikh prisoners and parole for Jagtar Singh Hawara, who was convicted in the assassination case of former Punjab Chief Minister Beant Singh.

The bandh has so far remained peaceful, with no major untoward incident reported from any part of Punjab. Police have been deployed in large numbers at sensitive locations to maintain law and order and keep a close watch on the situation.

Markets closed, private schools shut

The bandh has had a visible impact in several districts, with markets and commercial establishments remaining closed. Private schools have also decided to keep their campuses shut in view of the call for a statewide shutdown.

Government schools, however, opened as per their regular schedule on Friday morning.

In Mohali and Chandigarh, many shopkeepers and business owners kept their establishments closed at least until the afternoon amid concerns over the prevailing situation.

Highway traffic affected in Mohali

The impact of the bandh was also seen on road transport. A highway in Mohali was blocked, while bus services in several areas were affected due to the shutdown.

Despite the protests and road restrictions at some locations, there was no widespread disruption to traffic across Punjab. Highways and roads in several urban areas continued to see movement.

Train services running normally

Railway services remained largely unaffected. Trains were running according to schedule, and there was no major disruption reported on railway tracks so far.

Authorities have maintained a strong security presence at important railway stations and other sensitive points to prevent any untoward incident.

Police say situation under control

Mohit Aggarwal, Superintendent of Police (SP), Patiala, said there was no reason for people to panic and that the bandh had remained peaceful.

Security arrangements have been strengthened across the state as authorities continue to monitor developments throughout the day.

The Qaumi Insaaf Morcha is seeking the release of Sikh prisoners who have completed their sentences, along with parole for Jagtar Singh Hawara. The bandh is being observed as part of the group's campaign to press the government on these demands