Koomi Insaf Morcha Calls Punjab Bandh Over Delayed Release of Prisoners

The Koomi Insaf Morcha, a coalition of civil society groups, has called for a full‑day bandh across Punjab to press the state government to free inmates who have already served their court‑mandated terms. The organization says dozens of prisoners, referred to as “bandi singh,” have completed their sentences yet continue to be held in various jails, prompting the protest.
The bandh, scheduled for today, is expected to disrupt traffic and public transport for up to seven hours, according to the organizers. Shops, schools and government offices in several districts may remain closed during the period of agitation.
Punjab authorities have not issued an official statement on the demand, but police have been instructed to maintain law and order and to ensure that the bandh does not turn violent. The Morcha has urged the government to act swiftly to avoid further inconvenience to commuters and to uphold the rule of law.