Punjab Bandh on October 15: What Will Remain Closed? Markets, Schools, Transport SGPC Institutions in Focus

Punjab is likely to see disruptions on Thursday, October 15, as a bandh has been called after the killing of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa district. The call for the shutdown comes amid protests demanding action against those responsible for the killing and accountability from the state government and police administration.

The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has announced its support for the bandh, with its offices and institutions expected to remain closed. However, there has been no comprehensive official notification confirming closures of schools, colleges, markets or public transport across Punjab.

The situation is particularly tense in Mansa, where protests and road blockades have disrupted normal activity following Jhota's killing.

Punjab Bandh on October 15: What Will Remain Closed?

The extent of the shutdown is expected to vary across districts, depending on the participation of local traders, transport operators, educational institutions and other organisations.

Here is what is known so far:

SGPC offices and institutions: The SGPC has announced support for the bandh, and its offices and institutions are expected to remain closed.

Schools and colleges: No statewide holiday notification has been confirmed in the information available. Students and parents should check announcements from their respective institutions and district administrations.

Markets and shops: Commercial activity could be affected in areas where traders and local organisations support the bandh. Statewide closure of markets has not been officially confirmed.

Public transport: Buses and other transport services could face disruptions in areas affected by protests or road blockades. No statewide suspension has been confirmed.

Petrol pumps: There is no confirmed statewide order requiring petrol pumps to close on October 15.
Government offices: No blanket closure order for government offices has been confirmed.

The situation may change as more organisations announce their participation. Residents should check local administrative advisories before travelling.

Why Has a Punjab Bandh Been Called?

The bandh call was announced after the killing of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota, who was shot dead on Tuesday, October 13, after a violent confrontation with a chemist in Mansa district over alleged drug sales.

According to police reports, the accused chemist, Ashwani Kumar, fled after the shooting. Four of Jhota's companions were also injured in the incident. Kumar was subsequently arrested in Rajasthan.

The killing has triggered protests and demands for action against those allegedly involved in the incident. Jhota's family and supporters have also raised questions about the alleged drug trade and the role of local authorities.

Jhota's family called for the Punjab bandh on October 15, seeking justice for the activist and action against those they believe were responsible for his death.