Various Valmiki organisations have called for a statewide Punjab Bandh on July 27 to protest the alleged lathi charge on sanitation workers in Barnala. The organisations have appealed to the general public, traders’ associations, social organisations and people from all sections of society to support the bandh.
Representatives of the organisations said the Barnala incident has sparked resentment within the community. They have demanded a fair and impartial investigation into the matter and urged the Punjab government to take appropriate action.
The organisations have alleged that unarmed protesters were subjected to the use of force during the protest. They have also demanded legal action against the police officials found responsible, along with immediate justice for the affected sanitation workers.
As part of the bandh, protest demonstrations and peaceful rallies are being planned in several districts across Punjab. Organisers have appealed to supporters to ensure that the protests remain peaceful and democratic while cooperating with authorities to maintain law and order.
At the time of publishing this report, the Punjab government and the concerned authorities had not issued a detailed official response to the bandh call or the allegations raised by the organisations. If the bandh witnesses widespread participation, transport services, markets, educational institutions and other public services across the state may be affected.
