Ludhiana: The Punjab bandh called in protest against the daylight killing of anti-drug activist Parminder Singh Jhota disrupted normal life across Ludhiana Thursday, with protests erupting at multiple locations, toll plazas being thrown open to motorists and markets witnessing partial shutdowns.Farmer bodies, workers’ unions and various social organisations held demonstrations across the district, blocking roads and staging sit-ins at key intersections. The biggest impact was felt near the Ladhowal toll plaza on the Amritsar-Delhi national highway, where protesters held a dharna and toll barriers were lifted, allowing vehicles to pass free of charge for several hours.While markets initially opened in the morning, many traders downed shutters later in the day following appeals from protest leaders. Traffic remained thinner than usual and commuters faced delays as demonstrations were held at major junctions, including Gill Road, Samrala Chowk and Phullanwal Chowk.Members of the Samyukt Kisan Morcha said the response to the bandh reflected growing public anger over Jhota’s killing and concern over the drug menace. Commuters reported taking longer routes to avoid protest sites and traffic diversions.The bandh’s impact extended beyond Ludhiana city. Demonstrations were also reported from Jagraon, Samrala, Khanna, Payal, Mullanpur, Sidhwan Bet and Raikot, where farmer organisations and Left-affiliated groups organised rallies, raised slogans and demanded justice for Jhota’s family.At Ladhowal and Chowkiman toll plazas, protesters and workers opened toll barriers for several hours as a mark of protest. Police remained deployed at sensitive locations across the district to prevent any untoward incident and maintain traffic flow.Farmer leaders said the protests were also aimed at pressing for stronger action against drug abuse and ensuring protection for those raising their voice against the narcotics trade.
