On 12 August 2025, the Indian Supreme Court delivered its verdict in the Sukhdev Yadav case, ruling that convicts serving fixed terms must be released upon completing their sentences. In Punjab, several media outlets have reported that this ruling could also apply to Sikh political prisoners—often referred to as Bandi Singhs—potentially leading to their release.

Journalist Mandeep Singh spoke with Advocate Jaspal Singh Manjhpur of Panjaab Lawyers, who maintains a record of Sikh political prisoners and actively pursues their permanent release.

Advocate Manjhpur clarified that the legal principles set out in the Sukhdev Yadav case do not apply to the cases of Bandi Singhs, and therefore the verdict will have no effect on their release. He further explained how various political parties are exploiting the issue of Sikh political prisoners for political gain. According to him, the continued imprisonment of Bandi Singhs—many of whom have served long terms and are already eligible for premature release—is primarily due to a lack of political will on the part of the concerned governments.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download