Punjab Bandh today: Following the recent confrontations in Manipur that caused anxiety and unrest throughout the country, a similar wave has now reached Punjab.
The violence, which began on May 3, sparked ethnic tensions between the Meiteis and the Kukis. The Manipur High Court directed the state administration to consider placing the Meiteis on the list of Scheduled Tribes (STs), which sparked the uproar. Regrettably, this turmoil has now spread its reach to Punjab.
In response to the continuing Manipur crisis, the local SC and Christian communities in Punjab have called for a bandh (shutdown) and rallies. In preparation for anticipated disruptions, the Punjab Police have deployed significant police units across numerous cities and districts. The major goal of this deployment is to maintain a sense of calm and stability.
Approximately 100 police officers have been assigned to each zone as part of this security operation. It is their role to maintain law and order during protests and similar activities.
To add to the confusion, the Manipur Insaaf Morcha has declared a strike from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. This group effort attempts to voice dissatisfaction and call attention to the current situation.
Authorities order school closure in Punjab
Given Manipur’s ethnic and sectarian conflict, which generated indignation in Punjab, and with the safety and security of students in mind, authorities ordered the closure of educational institutions across the province.
For the safety and well-being of pupils, school officials opted to close educational facilities.
Amritsar largely shut
Amritsar district has been mainly closed in response to the Punjab Bandh call issued by SC and Christian organisations.
Shops and important markets such as Katra Jaimal Singh Bazaar, Hall Bazaar, Golden Temple market, and other Bazaars have been entirely shuttered in central Amritsar.
Mixed response across Punjab
The response has been mixed in numerous Punjab districts, including Pathankot, Gurdaspur, and Batala.
