Punjab is observing a bandh on Thursday, October 15, called by anti-narcotic activists to protest the killing of activist Parminder Singh Jhota, who was shot dead in Mansa earlier this week. With crowds converging on Mansa and police erecting barricades across the town, the shutdown is expected to hit intercity travel, bus services and daily activity hardest in the region.
Why the bandh was called
Activists called for people to gather in Mansa to condemn Jhota's killing and demand action against his killers, who remain at large. Congress state president Pargat Singh visited Mansa on Wednesday to offer condolences to the bereaved family, and political and anti-narcotic activists have been arriving in the town in large numbers. Police have deployed security personnel in Mansa to maintain order and prevent unauthorised gatherings, setting up checkpoints to monitor the movement of people entering and leaving the town.
Travel likely to be hit
Police have placed barricades on the Barnala-Mansa road and other routes, and commuters could face checks, diversions and delays. Bus services have stopped operating on some routes, leaving passengers stranded at bus stops, and more interruptions are expected through the day. Traders in some towns may keep shutters down in support of the shutdown, though no confirmed statewide closure list for schools, colleges, shops or offices has been issued. Residents have been advised to check with local authorities, schools and businesses before stepping out, and those travelling through Mansa are urged to use alternate routes or seek police permission.
Sources:
- News24 Online: Punjab Bandh October 15 — what's open and closed
Why the bandh was called
Activists called for people to gather in Mansa to condemn Jhota's killing and demand action against his killers, who remain at large. Congress state president Pargat Singh visited Mansa on Wednesday to offer condolences to the bereaved family, and political and anti-narcotic activists have been arriving in the town in large numbers. Police have deployed security personnel in Mansa to maintain order and prevent unauthorised gatherings, setting up checkpoints to monitor the movement of people entering and leaving the town.
Travel likely to be hit
Police have placed barricades on the Barnala-Mansa road and other routes, and commuters could face checks, diversions and delays. Bus services have stopped operating on some routes, leaving passengers stranded at bus stops, and more interruptions are expected through the day. Traders in some towns may keep shutters down in support of the shutdown, though no confirmed statewide closure list for schools, colleges, shops or offices has been issued. Residents have been advised to check with local authorities, schools and businesses before stepping out, and those travelling through Mansa are urged to use alternate routes or seek police permission.
Sources:
- News24 Online: Punjab Bandh October 15 — what's open and closed
