Qaumi Insaaf Morcha protesters clash with police at Chandigarh border; Punjab bandh on August 21
MOHALI: Tension prevailed at the Chandigarh-Mohali border on Saturday as Qaumi Insaaf Morcha activists attempted to breach police barricades and march towards Chandigarh. Security personnel stopped them, leading to a clash in which police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse the protesters.The protesters, who attempted to pull down the barricades with tractors, alleged that the police action was excessive and claimed that more than a dozen activists were injured. They also claimed that one protester suffered a fracture during the clash.Following the confrontation, the Morcha announced a Punjab bandh on August 21 to press for the release of Sikh prisoners, commonly referred to as Bandi Singhs. According to the protesters, some of them have remained behind bars for 30 to 35 years despite completing their sentences or becoming eligible for release.The protesters said they would no longer restrict their agitation to seeking parole for Jagtar Singh Hawara and would instead demand the complete release of all eligible Sikh prisoners.
Barricades pulled with tractors
The clash broke out when Morcha activists tried to move towards Chandigarh and attempted to pull out the barricades using tractors. Police personnel deployed at the spot resisted the attempt and used water cannons and tear gas to prevent the protesters from advancing.The protesters alleged that the police used force as if they were dealing with an armed conflict with another country.They also alleged that a chemical substance had been mixed with the water used by the water cannons, claiming it caused irritation and a burning sensation in their eyes. The allegation could not be independently verified.The police action resulted in a confrontation between the two sides as protesters attempted to move beyond the security cordon.
Demand for release of long-incarcerated prisoners
The Morcha has maintained that several Sikh prisoners have spent decades in jail and should be released after completing their sentences, as well as on humanitarian and legal grounds.The protesters said their agitation was not limited to any one prisoner and that the focus would now be on the complete release of all Bandi Singhs who have completed their legally prescribed terms or are otherwise eligible for release.The Morcha also reiterated its demand for the release or parole of Jagtar Singh Hawara, but said it would now intensify the campaign for permanent release rather than limiting the demand to parole.
Long-running protest at YPS Chowk
The Qaumi Insaaf Morcha has been holding a prolonged protest at the Chandigarh-Mohali border near YPS Chowk since January 7, 2023.The agitation has centred on the release of Sikh prisoners who have been incarcerated for prolonged periods, with protesters arguing that some have spent decades in prison.The issue has periodically drawn the participation and support of political and religious figures and has remained a sensitive issue in Punjab’s political and social landscape.
What happened at the border?
- Qaumi Insaaf Morcha activists attempted to cross the police barricades while marching towards Chandigarh.
- Protesters used tractors in an attempt to pull down the barricades.
- Police deployed water cannons and tear gas to stop the protesters.
- Morcha activists claimed that more than a dozen protesters were injured.
- One protester was claimed to have suffered a fracture.
- Protesters alleged that chemicals were mixed with the water, causing eye irritation.
- The allegation regarding chemicals could not be independently verified.
Morcha’s demands
Release of Bandi Singhs: The Morcha is demanding the release of Sikh prisoners who have spent prolonged periods in jail and, according to the protesters, have completed their sentences or are eligible for release.Complete release, not just parole: The protesters said they would no longer confine their demand to parole for Jagtar Singh Hawara and would seek his complete release along with that of other eligible prisoners.Justice on historical issues: The agitation also raises broader demands concerning unresolved issues related to Sikh religious and historical grievances.
Punjab bandh on August 21
Following the clash with police, the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha announced a Punjab bandh on August 21.The protesters said the bandh call was aimed at putting pressure on the state government and authorities to act on their demands concerning the release of long-incarcerated Sikh prisoners.
Two sides of the clash
Protesters: Alleged excessive use of force, claimed that more than a dozen activists were injured and alleged that the water used by police contained a substance that caused irritation in the eyes.Police action: Security personnel used barricades, water cannons and tear gas to prevent protesters from breaking through the security cordon and proceeding towards Chandigarh.
