Chandigarh Sikh Prisoners Protest: Protesters demanding the release of Sikh prisoners in Chandigarh attempted to march towards the residence of Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria. Meanwhile, the police fired tear gas shells and used water cannon to stop the demonstrators who were trying to break the barricade. After this incident now Qaumi Insaf Morcha has announced ‘Punjab Bandh’ on 21 August.
Chandigarh-Mohali border sealed, security tight
A very tight security arrangement was made at the Chandigarh-Mohali border to prevent the protesters from reaching the Governor’s residence (Lok Bhavan). It was barricaded at several levels and topped with barbed wire. A large number of security forces, including anti-riot vehicles and the Rapid Action Force (RAF), were deployed at the scene.
Which prisoners are being released?
The Qaumi Insaf Morcha claims that many Sikh prisoners are locked up in various jails across the country despite having completed their jail terms. The main prisoners being sought by the Front for release include the following names:
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Jagtar Singh Hawara: He is serving a life sentence in 1995 for the murder of the then Chief Minister of Punjab Bayant Singh.
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Balwant Singh Rajoana: Convicted in ex-CM Bayant Singh massacre.
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Devinderpal Singh Bhullar: Convicted in 1993 Delhi bomb blast case.
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Other prisoners: Jagtar Singh Tara, Paramjit Singh Bhiora, Gurdeep Singh Khehra, Lakhwinder Singh Lakha, Gurmeet Singh and Shamsher Singh.
Who is a ‘Bandi Sikh’?
The term ‘Bandi Sikh’ has been used in Punjab since the 1990s to refer to Sikh prisoners convicted in extremism- cases. The Qaumi Insaf Morcho has been staging a continuous dharna since 7 January 2023 near Sector 52-53 in Chandigarh and YPS Chowk in Mohali demanding the release of these Sikh prisoners. Several religious and political organizations including Shiromani Akali Dal, Waris Punjab De and Nihang organizations are supporting the movement.
