Punjab Bandh Today: Why Punjab Is Closed Today? Are Schools, Banks Open? Check Timings, Buses, Train Updates

Punjab is observing a state-wide bandh on Thursday, October 15, 2026, to protest against the murder of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh. Not just that, the District Bar Association (DBA) of Chandigarh has called for "no workday" for lawyers after the humiliation and mistreatment of lawyers during the Delhi protest at the Supreme Court of India near Jantar Mantar. The protest has reportedly begun at 6 am and will continue till 5 pm.

Why Is Punjab Closed Today, October 15, 2026?

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The protest is related to the brutal killing of Parvinder Singh Jhota, an anti-drug activist. On October 13th, Jhota was shot dead in Mansa, while four other people were reported to have been injured severely. The activist's family demands a CBI investigation into the murder while seeking accountability from the Punjab government and police administration.

As per reports, a medical store owner, Ashwani Kumar, is involved in the killing of Jhota. He has been taken into custody in Salasar, Rajasthan.

Apparently, Jhota's murder was caught in the live stream he carried on Facebook while confronting Kumar over allegedly selling drugs to an elderly man. Soon after an intense argument broke out between Jhota and Kumar while the store owner held a pistol in his hand. The latter opened fire on the activist eventually, killing him.

Apart from this, the District Bar Association (DBA), Chandigarh has called on its members to abstain from work on October 15, 2026. The Association cited the proposed "Punjab Bandh" and the reported humiliation and mistreatment of advocates at the Supreme Court of India in New Delhi during a recent protest, as per Live Law report.

DBA has declared to observe "No Work Day" on October 15, 2026.

Punjab Bandh Today: Are Schools Closed?

There is no official announcement; however, schools and universities could face disruption. Accordingly, schools in the state are following their normal routines until further notice from the state government, district administration, or school management over a holiday.

CBSE, ICE and CISCE schools also remain open.

Punjab Bandh Today: Are Banks Closed?

Just like schools, banks usually do not close for nationwide call for bandh. Also, October 15 is not recognized as holiday from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) or by the state. Hence, bank branches of SBI, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Punjab National Bank, Axis Bank, IndusInd Bank, Bank of Baroda, and Canara Bank among others will remain open as normal today.

Apart from this, internet banking, ATM services, UPI transactions and mobile banking will continue to operate 24x7.

Punjab Bandh Today: Are Buses Services Impacted?

During protests, transportation is generally the first to take the brunt. Bus services from Mansa region may face delays or cancellation. While some routes depending upon the protests movement could be impacted as well.

If you are travelling through Punjab Roadways, Pepsu Road Transport Corporation (PRTC) or private buses ensure to have the latest update before departing for the location.

Punjab Bandh Today: Are Train Services Impacted?

As of now, there is no confirmed cancellation or suspension to train services. However, the possibility of protest demonstrations at train stations could not be ruled out as well. If you are travelling by local trains, check the state local indicator for updates on your train. If you are taking the long-distance journey train check on the Indian Railways and IRCTC for real-time updates on your selective trains before leaving. Also, plan your journey critically as commute on the street will be impacted, leading to heavy traffic congestion. Hence, leave early if possible to reach on time.

Punjab Bandh Today: Are Markets, Shops, Healthcare, Airports Closed?

No, they will operate as normal as the government has not declared a state-wide shutdown due to the protest. All local shops, malls, and restaurants are expected to operate as normal. Meanwhile, hospitals and healthcare services will be functional as they are pivotal. Airport is also open.