In video message, Hawara appeals for peace ahead of Qaumi march

On the eve of the scheduled march by several Sikh organisations, seeking the release of Bandi Singhs, Jagtar Singh Hawara has released a video message asking those participating in the protest march to ensure that no untoward incident takes place.

The two-minute video, released by the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha late tonight, was apparently shot in the prison in Delhi, where Hawara is currently lodged.

The Morcha has announced that it will hold a protest march from Mohali to Punjab Lok Bhawan, the residence of the Punjab Governor, at 11.30 am on Saturday. They are seeking the release of Hawara and other Bandi Singhs (those who have been in prison for several years, some beyond their terms). The Chandigarh Police have nearly sealed its borders with Mohali to stop the protesters from entering the city.

In the video, in which Hawara appears to be reading his address to his supporters, he said, "I am in high spirits, thanks to your prayers for my well-being. I appeal to all those participating in the march being organised by Qaumi Insaaf Morcha to ensure that it remains peaceful. The morcha has been continuing at the Chandigarh-Mohali border for four years. It is your duty to ensure that no untoward incident occurs on August 15," he said.