In Photos: Punjab bandh over Barnala lathi-charge disrupts normal life across state

Normal life was affected at most places in Punjab on Thursday with markets and commercial establishments remaining shut following a state-level 'bandh' call by sanitation workers against the Barnala lathi-charge incident (Source: Photo by Gurmeet Singh)

Sanitation workers also held protests at several places against the state government, demanding action against police officials involved in the lathi-charge incident (Source: Photo by Gurmeet Singh)

On July 22, police resorted to a lathi-charge on sanitation workers after they allegedly hurled stones and garbage bags at police in Barnala in an alleged attempt to thwart a cleanliness drive undertaken by the local municipal corporation and district authorities (Source: Photo by Gurmeet Singh)

Almost all shops and business establishments remained closed in many parts of Punjab. However, hospitals, medical stores, ambulance services and other emergency services remained functional (Source: Photo by Gurmeet Singh)

The 'bandh' call was given by sanitation workers and supported by various employee unions and Dalit organisations. A heavy police presence was deployed across Hoshiarpur city to maintain law and order and prevent any untoward incident. (Source: Photo by Gurmeet Singh)

From the morning hours, shops in key commercial areas, both in the city and cantonment, remained closed and the shopkeepers voluntarily observed the 'bandh' and those establishments which were opened, including a few banks, were shut down by the protesters (Source: Photo by Gurmeet Singh)

Deep Dashanan, national president of Ravan Ambedkar Mission, condemned the lathi-charge incident. He said sanitation workers have been protesting for nearly 20 days over their long-pending demands, but the government has failed to address their concerns (Source: Photo by Gurmeet Singh)

Ludhiana witnessed a near-total shutdown in response to the 'bandh' call. Major commercial hubs including Chaura Bazar, Saban Bazar, Ghumar Mandi, Sarafa Bazar, Civil Lines and Bindraban Road remained closed for the day as shopkeepers extended support to the protest (Source: Photo by Gurmeet Singh)