India, Aug. 22 -- Normal life was disrupted across Punjab on Friday as markets remained closed and traffic movement was hit at several places amid the seven-hour "Punjab Bandh" called by the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha to press for the release of Sikh prisoners.

The bandh, observed from 7 am to 2 pm, evoked a near-total response in several parts of the Majha and Doaba regions, while its impact was mixed in parts of Malwa.

Heavy police deployment was made at several sensitive locations across the state to maintain law and order as supporters of the morcha and various farmers' organisations blocked roads and highways, and marched through markets asking traders to bring their shutters down.

Commuters, especially office-goers and travellers, bore ...