Punjab observes shutdown demanding parole for Bandi Singh and Jagtar Singh Hawara

A shutdown was observed across Punjab on Tuesday, with shops, schools and public transport largely halted. The protest was organized to press the authorities for the parole of two inmates, Bandi Singh and Jagtar Singh Hawara, who are currently serving sentences.

Activists gathered at several towns, chanting slogans and displaying placards that called for the release of the two prisoners on parole. Police reported that the demonstration remained largely peaceful, though traffic congestion and limited services were reported in major cities.

The demand for parole has been a recurring issue among certain groups in the state, who argue that the prisoners deserve clemency. Government officials, however, have not issued a statement on whether the parole requests will be considered.

The shutdown is expected to be lifted by the evening as normalcy returns, but the call for parole remains a point of contention in Punjab's political discourse.