Punjab observes shutdown over continued detention of Sikh prisoners
Chandigarh: A shutdown is being observed across Indian state of Punjab today to demand the release of Sikh prisoners.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the shutdown has been called by a coalition of Sikh religious and political organisations and is supported by farmer groups. Private bus operators in several cities and towns of Punjab have also backed the call, while markest, factories, commercial establishments and private schools remain closed. Attendance at government schools has also been reported to be thin.
The continued detention of Sikh prisoners remains a sensitive issue in Punjab, with Panthic organisations and rights activists demanding the release of prisoners who have spent decades in jail. The campaign particularly focused on prisoners convicted in cases dating back to the militancy period of the 1980s and 1990s, which activists say were fabricated or politically motivated.
Addressing a news conference in Patiala, activist Gurcharan Singh said keeping prisoners behind bars even after the completion of their sentences was contrary to the principles of justice and human rights. He urged the Indian government and Punjab administration to take immediate statutory steps for their release.
The news conference was attended by Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) member Surjit Singh Garhi, Prof Mohinder Pal Singh and Harbhajan Singh of Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar), Gurjant Singh of Qaumi Insaaf Morcha, besides representatives of Waris Punjab De and various farmer organisations.
Legislator Manpreet Singh Ayali asked, “Why are the Sikhs being kept in jail despite completing their jail terms? They must be freed.”
The organisers said the shutdown would include rail blockades, demonstrations on major highways and closure of markets across the state. Gurcharan Singh applealed protesters to remain peaceful and ensure that all demonstrations were conducted democratically without disrupting emergency medical services. Students travelling for exams and those travelling for weddings, funerals or going abroad have also been exempted from the shutdown.
The shutdown comes days after a confrontation between Qaumi Insaaf Morcha protesters and police at the Chandigarh-Mohali border on August 15, when protesters attempted to march towards Punjab governor’s residence. Police used tear gas and water cannons to stop the march, and several protesters and political leaders were detained. The August 15 march was also aimed at seeking parole for Jagtar Singh Hawara, who is serving a life sentence in connection with the 1995 assassination of former Punjab Chief Minister Beant Singh.
