Chandigarh police disperse Sikh prisoner release protesters

Chandigarh police deployed tear gas and water cannons on Saturday, August 15, to disperse protesters from the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha. The group was marching toward the Punjab Governor’s residence to demand the release of Sikh prisoners, referred to as ‘Bandi Singhs,’ whom they claim have completed their sentences but remain incarcerated.

Clashes occurred at the Mohali-Chandigarh border as demonstrators attempted to breach multi-layer barbed wire barricades. The confrontation involved stone-pelting by protesters and a heavy police response, including the use of drones to drop tear gas shells. Security forces, including the Rapid Action Force, were mobilized to seal border points.

Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar) leader Simranjit Singh Mann was detained by authorities after he reportedly attempted to reach the Governor’s residence in disguise. The protesters are specifically seeking parole or release for individuals such as Jagtar Singh Hawara, who is serving a life sentence for the 1995 assassination of former Punjab Chief Minister Beant Singh.

The Qaumi Insaaf Morcha has called for a ‘Punjab Bandh’ (shutdown) on August 21 to continue their agitation.