India, Aug. 23 -- Statewide shutdown over Sikh prisoners' release sparks commuter frustration amid road blockades and transport disruptions.

Punjab witnessed a statewide bandh on Friday over the demand for the release of Bandi Singhs, but the shutdown also left many ordinary commuters agitated as road blockades and transport disruptions disturbed their daily routines. The seven-hour bandh, called by the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha from 7 am to 2 pm, affected traffic, markets and public transport at several places across the state. While the organisers described the shutdown as a peaceful democratic protest in support of Sikh prisoners, commuters at several locations complained of inconvenience and difficulty in reaching their destinations. The i...