The Punjab Bandh called by the Valmiki community on Monday had a visible impact across the Doaba region, with markets, private schools and several commercial establishments remaining closed in support of the protest.
The bandh was called against the alleged lathi charge on sanitation workers in Barnala and witnessed widespread participation, particularly in districts with a large Valmiki population.
The shutdown affected normal life in Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, Kapurthala and Nawanshahr. Community leaders had appealed to traders, educational institutions, business owners and the general public to support the bandh by keeping establishments closed.
In Jalandhar, many markets remained shut throughout the day, while commercial establishments also suspended operations, giving several parts of the city a bandh-like look.
The impact was also seen in the education sector and several private schools announced closure on Monday after informing parents through messages sent on Sunday night. Schools including Cambridge Innovative School, Innocent Hearts School, DIPS School and MGN School remained closed, and parents were advised not to send their children to school.
The bandh was called in protest against the alleged police lathi charge on sanitation workers in Barnala and as part of their demands, community leaders have sought strict action against those responsible for the incident.
In Jalandhar, leaders led by Vipin Sabharwal demanded the dismissal of DSP Satbir Singh, who was responsible for the police action and has already been suspended.
Since the Doaba region has a significant Valmiki population, the bandh witnessed maximum support in Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, Kapurthala and Nawanshahr.
Markets and business areas in these districts reported a noticeable reduction in activity during the day.
The police administration remained on high alert across the region in view of the bandh and security was tightened at important locations, and additional police personnel were deployed to maintain law and order.