MOHALI, AUGUST 21 — The statewide bandh call given by the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha saw a notable response across Mohali on Friday morning, marked by sparse vehicular movement during early peak hours and partial commercial closures.
Demonstrators organized key transit blockades across the area to push for their demands. Protesters parked tractor-trolleys in the middle of the road at the Gopal Sweets light point in Kharar, completely halting vehicular traffic. Similarly, another group blocked the main Mohali stretch at the Cheema Boiler light point.
Supporting the agitation for the release of Bandi Singhs, several farmer organizations assembled at the Azizpur toll plaza to stage a demonstration. Activists also gathered in smaller assemblies across public spaces and key intersections, though major demonstrations were avoided at those spots.
Local authorities clarified that educational institutions opted independently to adjust operations. “There are no restrictions from our side. Schools and institutions are doing it voluntarily,” stated SP City Dilpreet Singh.
While most private schools in Mohali shifted to online instruction, government institutions recorded low student attendance. In nearby Dera Bassi and Lalru, private schools remained entirely closed as a precautionary step.
Security agencies maintained heightened vigilance throughout the Tricity to manage potential public order issues. Over 1,000 police personnel in Mohali and 800 in Chandigarh were placed on high alert.
Law enforcement forces set up tactical checkpoints to control movements toward neighboring regions. “Rest all entry and exit points are open for road users and commuters,” declared DSP City-2 Harsimran Singh Bal, confirming that barricades were placed primarily near YPS Chowk and the Mohali-Chandigarh border on Jail Road.
Commercial activity remained mixed during the morning hours, with full compliance observed in select pockets. Most small and large shops and showrooms in Lalru stayed closed, while public transport services remained off the roads.
