AMRITSAR — A statewide shutdown gripped Punjab on Thursday as the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha, backed by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, enforced a bandh demanding the release of detained Sikhs. Shops, transport and educational institutions remained closed across several districts.

The SGPC had announced its support for the bandh earlier in the week and rescheduled its executive committee meeting to align with the protest. The Qaumi Insaaf Morcha has for years pressed for the release of Sikh prisoners it describes as having completed their sentences.

Organisers staged road blockades at key highways and toll plazas, disrupting movement between Amritsar, Ludhiana and other towns. Police were deployed at sensitive points to prevent clashes, and traffic was diverted on several routes.

The shutdown placed renewed pressure on the Punjab government led by the Aam Aadmi Party, which faces demands to raise the prisoners' cases with the central government. Religious and political leaders addressed gatherings at gurdwaras during the day.

An SGPC spokesperson said the protest reflected sustained community sentiment. "The demand for the release of Sikh prisoners who have completed their terms is a matter of justice," the official said.