Multiple Sikh groups including the influential Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) have joined the call for a statewide Punjab Bandh on 21st of August called for by Qaumi Insaaf Morcha. SGPC has announced the closure of its main office and affiliated institutions to the bandh. Shiromani Akali Dal (Punar Surjit), Akali Dal ‘Waris Punjab De’, Dal Khalsa, Hawara Committee, and Mann Dal have also joined the bandh call. The Panthic leaders in the meeting at Shiromani Akali Dal (Punar Surjit) headquarters called for a statewide shutdown, keeping all business and commercial activities closed till 2 pm. They have also allowed emergency services and marriage processions to remain open. The leaders have announced the program to observe a shutdown as a protest to free “Bandi Singhs” who have been in jail for over 32 years. On the Independence Day (15th of August), Chandigarh police had used tear gas, water cannons, and drone-fired canisters to stop a rally of protesters, which was marching towards the Governor’s house. Many protesters were injured in the police crackdown. Due to the crackdown, a decision was made to call for a statewide Punjab Bandh on 21st August.