Punjab Witnesses Comprehensive Bandh in Protest Against Caste Violence in Manipur
In a synchronized effort, the Dalit and Christian communities of Punjab have initiated a statewide bandh today (August 9) as a resolute protest against the prevailing caste violence in Manipur. A united call has been issued to temporarily halt the operation of educational institutions, markets, and industrial establishments throughout Punjab.
Show of Unity: Punjab Bandh in Response to Caste Violence
Multiple sources confirm the alignment of various private schools with the bandh. Initiated through a press conference in Jalandhar, the Dalit and Christian communities’ call for a Punjab bandh on August 9 against Manipur’s violence has been supported by these schools. This proactive stance has resulted in the temporary closure of schools, markets, and other institutions in Punjab from 9 am to 5 pm, as declared by the Morcha’s President.
In anticipation of the widespread protests, the Punjab government has taken the decision to close all schools in the state on August 9. Manipur Insaaf Morcha’s President, Surjit Thapar, has delineated the blueprint, confirming the statewide bandh from 9 am to 5 pm on August 9.
Unified Stand for Justice: Punjab Joins Manipur Protest with Bandh
In a resolute display against the escalating violence in Manipur, the entire Scheduled Caste (SC) community in Punjab has rallied together. The resounding response is a statewide bandh on August 9, spanning from 9 am to 5 pm.
The call for a comprehensive bandh resonates across Doaba districts, encompassing Jalandhar, Kapurthala, and SBS Nagar. In a remarkable demonstration of unity, state-level organizations, social groups, and Christian entities have aligned for a complete shutdown in Punjab from 9 am to 5 pm.
Preempting the protests, many market organizations have proactively shuttered their businesses, causing a significant early-morning impact. However, transport services remain unaffected. Stringent security measures are in place to ensure an incident-free environment. Notably, a majority of shops in Amritsar are closed as well.
Amidst the unified demonstration, protesters emphasize that the central government’s response to Manipur’s unrest falls short of establishing a peaceful atmosphere. Concerns revolve around the prolonged violence and inadequate governmental measures, impacting the minority community’s well-being in the open environment.