Farmers, teachers, students intensify protests against AAP leadership across Punjab
CHANDIGARH: It is not just Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders facing the wrath and anger of farmers across Punjab; now Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders are also on the receiving end. They are facing rising public ire over unfulfilled promises, unanswered queries, and arrogant behaviour. Farmers are posing questions to the leaders, even going so far as to term AAP the B-team of BJP. Now, student groups and teachers associations have also joined in protesting against the ruling party leaders. Yesterday, AAP MLA from Rampura Phul, Balkar Sidhu, and another ruling party legislator from Maur, Sukhbir Singh Maiserkhana, had to face backlash from farmers during their visits to inaugurate development projects. Sidhu had gone to Sidhana village in Rampura to inaugurate an event under the Education Revolution initiative. As the news spread that the legislator was in the area, members of the Bhartiya Kisan Union (Krantikari Punjab) and BKU Ekta Ugrahan gathered in front of the school in the village. As Sidhu arrived at the school under police protection, farmers began raising slogans regarding the atrocities committed at the Shambhu and Khanauri borders. They also raised objections related to the Model School Chaoke case. After the programme ended, the MLA approached the farmers, and the farmer leaders asked him several questions. Sidhu responded, saying he could only comment after speaking with Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Later, in Salebrah village, the MLA faced further protests. Meanwhile, Sukhbir Singh Maiserkhana, another ruling party legislator from the Maur assembly segment, was confronted by members of the BKU (Ekta Ugrahan) during his visit to Ramgarh Bhundar village yesterday. Maiserkhana had earlier been confronted by BKU Sidhupur members while en route to an event under the Sikhya Kranti programme. In another incident, members of the Bhartiya Kisan Union (Ekta Sidhupur) posed several questions to Gidderbaha AAP MLA Hardeep Singh Dimpy Dhillon in Gurusar village on Monday. They described the AAP as the BJPs B-team. They asked him why the farmers were not allowed to protest at the Khanauri and Shambhu borders. In response, Dimpy said the state government might be under some pressure to lift the protests at the borders, as nothing had happened in the past year. Talking with this newspaper, Prem Singh Bhangu, President of the All India Kisan Federation and senior leader of SKM Punjab, said that the AAP Punjab government is facing the wrath and anger of farmers in the villages daily whenever its MLAs and ministers visit the villages to inaugurate the repair work done in school buildings. He stated that they are being dubbed as stooges of the BJP government at the Centre for taking repressive measures to crush and dislodge the peaceful protests of farmers at the Shambhu and Khanauri borders by using heavy force. The government also foiled the March 5 proposed morcha to be launched at Chandigarh by making more than 1,000 arrests of farmers in the state, stopping them from reaching Chandigarh, their own capital, by forcibly stopping them in Punjab. Moreover, the government is trying to create a divide between rural and urban people, and Jat versus non-Jat in the state in order to garner votes, which could cost it dearly in the coming assembly elections, he said. While some party leaders avoid meeting farmers, others have lost their cool when confronted with queries. Punjab Assembly Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan has been targeted many times. On April 8, during a farmers training camp in Faridkot, Sandhwan was interrupted mid-speech when a farmer stood up and bluntly said that Sandhwan knew nothing about dairy farming. Sandhwan did not take offence. The protestors gathered outside his house in Kotkapura. There was also a protest by the Punjab Students Union at Brajindra College in Faridkot. On April 5, Punjab Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian faced a similar situation in Muktsar. Nirmal Singh from the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) Sidhupur interrupted him with questions about paddy varieties. The police immediately detained Singh, booking him under Sections 126 and 170 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). He was sent to jail and then released after four days upon furnishing bail. Also, AAP MLA Labh Singh Ugoke was grilled by farmers demanding an inquiry into the missing trolleys. Ugoke responded that the government had many other responsibilities. Last week, Batyala MLA Amansher Singh, alias Sherry Kalsi, was surrounded by farmers. Initially, he remained calm and talked to the farmers, but when they shouted slogans, he also reportedly shouted AAP zindabad to counter them. Other MLAs, including Gurdev Singh Dev Mann in Nabha, Gurdit Singh Sekhon in Faridkot, Dalbir Singh Tong in Baba Bakala, and Aresh Kataria in Zira, have faced similar confrontations. Sarwan Singh Pandher, coordinator of Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, said that in 2020 and 2022, BJP leaders were questioned by farmers. Now, it is the turn of the AAP leadership. He further said that farmers had planned to question Mann and AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal in Amritsar on April 9 but were not allowed to do so. A few days ago, the villagers of Chauke village in Bathinda decided to ban the entry of AAP leaders in response to the police crackdown on a teachers' protest outside Adarsh School on March 27, where police lathi-charged women protestors. Villagers from several villages in Lambi constituency, from where Punjab Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian is the MLA, have also announced plans to boycott AAP leaders. Additionally, the villagers of Kotla Jattan and Beer Bhamarasi villages in Fatehgarh Sahib and Babarpur Patiala have also banned the leaders of the ruling party from entering their villages. Kaka Singh Kolta, General Secretary of BKU (Sidhupur), said that this is just the start and soon they will not be able to step out of their houses.
The All India Institute of Medical Sciences Bathinda (AIIMS Bathinda) has released an official notification for the recruitment of 02 Senior Palliative Medicine Doctor, Palliative Care Nurse posts. Interested and eligible candidates can apply online through the official AIIMS Bathinda website. The last date to submit the application form is 02-05-2025.
Plot to attack Shah in pro-Amritpal WA group busted, 2 held
CHANDIGARH: After alleged screenshots of a WhatsApp group conversation in support of jailed pro-Khalistan leader and Khadoor Sahib MP Amritpal Singh was leaked on social media, the Punjab Police on Monday registered a case and arrested two persons in the matter. The group reportedly discussed plans to target Union home minister Amit Shah, Union Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu and Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Majithia in retaliation to the one-year extension granted for Amritpals detention under the National Security Act (NSA). An FIR was registered at the Cyber Crime Police Station in Moga under various sections of the BNS, UAPA and the IT Act. The accused have been identified as Lakhdeep Singh Sardargarh from Bathinda, Balkar Singh from New Model Town in Khanna, and Pawandeep Singh from Khote, Moga. Among them, Balkar and Pawandeep have been arrested. DIG (Faridkot Range) Ashwani Kapoor said, A case has been registered by Moga police and two accused have been arrested while efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend other unidentified persons. The alleged screenshots and audio recordings related to the matter have already been shared with security agencies, police added. Police sources claimed the WhatsApp group, which has over 600 members, discussed plans of targeted strikes to avenge the extension of Amitpal Singhs detention. The group conversation allegedly included details on foreign funding, arms procurement, and circulation of inflammatory content online, they added. Sources claimed the leaked chats have revealed that certain members were willing to sacrifice their lives for the cause provided their families are assured protection. According to the sources, the pro-Khalistan group accused Union ministers Shah and Bittu, Akali dal elder Bikram Majithia, and Parminder Singh Talwara, an aide to the late Waris Punjab De founder Deep Sidhu, for their assumed role in keeping the Waris Punjab De chief in jail.
CHANDIGARH: The Punjab Police on Monday registered a case and arrested two individuals in connection with a WhatsApp group chat that allegedly expressed support for jailed Khadoor Sahib MP Amritpal Singh and detailed plans to target senior political leaders. Screenshots of the chat, which surfaced on social media, reportedly included discussions about attacking Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu, and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Bikram Singh Majithia, in response to the one-year extension of Amritpals detention under the National Security Act (NSA). A First Information Report (FIR) was registered at the Cyber Crime Police Station in Moga under Sections 61(2)(a), 113(3), 152, and 353 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, and the Information Technology Act. The accused have been identified as Lakhdeep Singh Sardargarh from Bathinda, Balkar Singh from New Model Town, Khanna, and Pawandeep Singh from Khote, Moga. Of the three, Balkar and Pawandeep have been arrested. Deputy Inspector General of Police (Faridkot Range) Ashwani Kapoor said, A case has been registered by Moga Police at the Cyber Station and two accused have been arrested. Other unidentified persons, once they are identified, will be arrested. Sources claimed that the WhatsApp group, which has more than 600 members, reportedly discussed plans to strike and take revenge against Shah, Bittu, Majithia, and Parminder Singh Talwara, an aide to the late Deep Sidhu, founder of Waris Punjab De . The group blamed them for playing a key role in keeping Amritpal in jail. Screenshots and audio recordings from the group chat have been shared with security agencies. The discussions on this group allegedly took place in the background of the extension of Amritpal's detention under the NSA. Police sources claim the group chat included discussions on foreign funding, arms procurement, and the circulation of inflammatory content online. They added that the leaked chats revealed some members of the group were willing to sacrifice their lives for the cause if their families were assured protection. Now security agencies are reportedly investigating these threats, as there are fears of potential violence in the state. These kinds of threats are taken seriously, whether they appear in the public sphere or otherwise, said a senior police officer on condition of anonymity. Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu alleged that some pro-Khalistan elements linked to the 'Waris Punjab De' outfit - whose chief is radical preacher Amritpal Singh - were plotting to assassinate him and other political leaders in Punjab. The conspiracy has been exposed through leaked screenshots of a chat on social media platforms, he claimed. Warning that the activities of such groups were pushing the state towards instability reminiscent of its dark past, Bittu said the central government has also taken serious note of the plot hatched by the leaders of 'Waris Punjab De'. The Centre will not allow anti-national forces to destabilise Punjab. My grandfather (Beant Singh) laid down his life for peace in Punjab. I come from a family of martyrs and I am not intimidated by extremist threats. I will not allow Punjab to descend into darkness again. Those behind this conspiracy will face the consequences, he asserted. Bittu also criticised the AAP government for what he described as a lenient stance towards criminal elements masquerading as political activists. Meanwhile, senior SAD leader Majithia demanded the immediate arrest of all members of the WhatsApp group linked with the Akali Dal Waris Punjab De party and Amritpal who were planning the execution of high-profile politicians. He demanded a NIA probe into the matter. Majithia announced that he would forward all the evidence in his possession to the Centre, stating that the Punjab Police had become politicised and could not be trusted to investigate Amritpal and his associates. He also questioned why Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann was silent on such a crucial matter. Are the Punjab Police, which have all the evidence in their possession, and the Chief Minister waiting for someone to die? he asked. Majithia also released details of the WhatsApp conversations on the Akali Dal Waris Punjab De Team Moga page, in which team members asserted that they were ready to become martyrs and asked if their families would be looked after in the event they carried out political assassinations of leaders including Ravneet Bittu, Bikram Singh Majithia, and Amit Shah. He also released an audio clip in which a woman is allegedly heard instigating members to become suicide bombers. The Punjab government has extended Amritpal's detention by one more year. He is currently lodged in Central Jail at Dibrugarh in Assam. He was detained under the NSA after his arrest on 23 April 2023. Amritpal's father, Tarsem Singh, on Sunday criticised the AAP government for extending his son's detention under the NSA. Amritpal, who styled himself after slain Khalistani militant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, was arrested in Rode village in Moga district on 23 April 2023, following a more than month-long manhunt.
Punjab Food Supply Recruitment 2025 for 9000+ Vacancies under Ration Depot
Punjab Food Supply Recruitment 2025: District Controller, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Punjab is inviting applications for Depot Holder. More than 9000 vacancies are available across the state including Fatehgarh Sahib, Sangrur, Pathanko, Childrens, Bhagat Singh NagaR, Kapurthala, Painters Cotla, Tarn Taran, S.A.S.NagaR, Mansa, Amritsar, Fazilka, Faridkot, Gurdaspur, Firozpur, Rupnagar, Patiala, Hoshiarpur, Ludhiana, Bathinda [] The post Punjab Food Supply Recruitment 2025 for 9000+ Vacancies under Ration Depot appeared first on Testbook Blog .
Perceived rise in hostility across north India alarms Catholics in Kerala
Theres a visible tendency among some self-proclaimed representatives of the majority religion to dominate minority communities, says Fr. Jose Vallikatt, a Catholic priest based in Bathinda
Punjab: Sukhbir Badal Elected SAD President Again
Amritsar, Apr 12: Sukhbir Singh Badal was elected president of the Shiromani Akali Dal again in the partys general delegate session that took place in Amritsar on Saturday. Badals name was proposed by partys working president Balwinder Singh Bhundar while party leader Paramjit Singh Sarna seconded it. The session for electing SADs new president was held at the Teja Singh Samundari hall in the Sri Darbar Sahib complex here. Several senior party leaders including Badals wife and Bathinda MP Harsimrat [] The post Punjab: Sukhbir Badal Elected SAD President Again appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
5 days after arrest from Chaoke protest, 1-year-old girl released from Bathinda jail with 13 women
Who Is Amandeep Kaur? Punjab Lady Cop Famous For Reels Arrested With Heroin
The 27-year-old cop, who was previously stationed in Mansa but was assigned to Bathinda Police Lines, gained attention not only for her professional role but also for her social media presence.
CHANDIGARH: The Punjab Waqf Board owns a total of 36,625.83 acres of land across the state, but over 14,000 acres of this land are currently under illegal encroachment. Ongoing litigation regarding these encroachments is being heard in various courts, including the Supreme Court. According to sources, data from the Board reveals that the Punjab Waqf Board has a total of 75,965 registered properties and 25,403 registered waqf estates. The Board owns 36,625.83 acres of land across the state, with approximately 14,085.004 acres, or 38.46%, currently under illegal encroachment. The remaining 61.45% of the land is being used for its intended purposes. While 18 cases are pending in the Supreme Court, 462 cases going in the Punjab and Haryana High Court, 1,157 civil suits in different courts for declaration, possession or eviction pending before the five waqf tribunals in the stare and civil courts, said sources. Talking with the TNIE, Latif Ahmed Thind, Executive Officer of Punjab Waqf Board, said, The total number of waqf board properties in Punjab is 75,965. The major problem is illegal encroachments across the state as the maximum encroachments are in Bathinda, followed by Ludhiana, Amritsar, Jalandhar and Patiala. In many cases, the illegal encroachers are sitting on these properties since 1947 and in many others the lease with the board finished but they did not vacate the property or gave its procession to someone else. Both influential people and common persons have encroached upon the waqf board properties. While in Samana near Patiala many shanties are there and those people refuse to vacate. It is just of people from other religions have encroached upon also people from the same community have also done illegal encroachment of the board properties in some cases, he says. We follow the due procedure of the law and cases are going in different courts including supreme court. With the amendment coming in the process will become for cumbersome.he added.
Swaraj Tractors, Mahindra Susten partner to develop Punjab s largest Solar captive project
MUMBAI, Apr 2: Swaraj Tractors, a division of the Mahindra Group has announced its collaboration with Mahindra Susten, the Groups clean-tech arm, to establish Punjabs largest solar group captive project-a 26 MW solar energy installation in Bathinda district. This ambitious venture is a significant step forward towards scaling up Swaraj Tractors renewable energy share to up to 50 per cent, the company said in a statement. The solar energy project developed by Mahindra Susten, will supply clean energy to four [] The post Swaraj Tractors, Mahindra Susten partner to develop Punjab s largest Solar captive project appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
CHANDIGARH: Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Cheema today presented the Rs 2.36 lakh crore states budget for the financial year 2025-26 without imposing any new taxes. However, it is the fourth budget of the AAP government, where the pre-election promise of a scheme providing Rs 1000 per month for women was not implemented. The budget focused on tackling the drug problem with the first-ever drug census to be carried out across the state and recruiting 5000 home guards who will be deployed along the Border Security Force (BSF) to established a second line of defence at border, promoting sports, enhancing health infrastructure and improving public education. The total revenue receipts have been projected to be Rs 1,11,740 crore, of these the own tax revenue accounts for Rs 63,250 crore, and the share of central taxes has been pegged at Rs 25,703 crore and grant-in-aid from the Centre at Rs 10,576 crore. The goods and services tax (GST) target for the next financial year is Rs 27,650 crore. By the end of the next fiscal, the states outstanding debt will be Rs 3.96 lakh crore. The state will raise a loan of Rs 49,900 crore in 2025-26. The budget is being described a futuristic budget and setting a clear Badalda Punjab (Changing Punjab) Roadmap for 2025-26. Finance Minister Cheema also announced a 'Rangla Punjab Vikas Scheme' under which funds will be spent on the most important local everyday developmental needs of the people of a district. The fund will be administered by Deputy Commissioners and will be spent based on the recommendation of MLAs, community organisations, citizen groups and public-spirited people of that district, he said. While the effective revenue deficit and fiscal deficit are expected to be 2.51 per cent and 3.84 per cent, respectively. Finance Minister Cheema mentioned that these parameters were better than before, indicating that the state has taken steps toward fiscal consolidation. Talking about the anti-drug campaign `Yudh Nasheyan Virudh to check drug scourge, Cheema while giving his budget speech, said the state government has decided to carry out the first-ever drug census in Punjab next year and thus earmarked Rs 150 crore for this purpose. It will cover every household of the state and will collect data to understand the prevalence of drugs, usage of de-addiction centres and also collect data on the socio-economic conditions of affected families of the people. This data will be used to chalk out an effective and scientific strategy to eradicate the problem of drugs within the next one to two years, he said. He said that for the first time the state government will establish a second line of defence at the border by deploying 5,000 home guards alongside BSF. These home guards will be selected from the most determined youth of the state who will act as the eagle eyes protecting the future of Punjab. The government will also deploy the most advanced and effective anti-drone systems along the border in the coming year, and for that, Rs 110 crore has been allocated, he said. Cheema took a dig at rival parties who ruled Punjab in the past, and alleged they have destroyed and looted the state. The only legacy these parties left in Punjab was that of 'Udta Punjab'. An entire generation of youth is being eaten hollow from within due to drugs, he lamented, adding that the AAP government's resolve is to build a Rangla Punjab, a Punjab that is inclusive, progressive, and brimming with opportunity for all, said Cheema. Moreover, a budgetary allocation of Rs 5,598 crore has been provided for the health sector, an increase of ten per cent over the previous year. Cheema said, for the first time in the history of the state, the AAP government has decided to extend the state health insurance scheme in the coming fiscal year to make it universal and cover all the 65 lakh families in the state. There will be no bar or discrimination-- rural or urban, rich or poor --everyone can participate in this scheme, he said. At present, 45 lakh families are enrolled in government health insurance schemes, of which 16 lakh families are covered under the Centres Ayushman Bharat Yojana and the remaining 29 lakh families are covered under the state governments Mukh Mantri Sarbat Sehat Bima Yojana. The insurance coverage for the entire family is only Rs 5 lakh per annum in these schemes. The government has decided to extend the insurance cover for all families across the state to Rs 10 lakh per annum, which will include those enrolled in the central government scheme, also as they will get an additional top-up cover of Rs 5 lakh from the state government. Meanwhile, all families who are covered under the Mukh Mantri Sarbat Sehat Bima Yojana will get a Sehat Card next year through which they can avail cashless treatment of up to Rs 10 lakh in government and private hospitals across the state, he added. Cheema further said that to ensure that the state police is well-equipped to respond immediately, Rs 125 crore has been allocated to buy new vehicles for the fleet of emergency response vehicles (ERVs), which will thus be strengthened and will be able to respond to calls made on 112. Thus, the government has decided to procure 758 four-wheelers and 916 two-wheelers, which will be deployed as ERVs and will increase the fleet size by six times. Besides this will reduce the average response time to emergency calls to eight minutes, which will be the lowest in the country as at present the average response time to distress calls goes up to 30 minutes as there are only 258 dedicated vehicles in this fleet, he said. He also spoke about the Rs 53 crore allocation towards building the new Dial 112 headquarters. For the agriculture and allied sectors, Rs 14,524 crore has been allocated in the next financial year, which is 5 per cent higher than last year. While Rs 9,992 crore have been allocated as power subsidy for 14.5 lakh agriculture tubewells and Rs 500 crore earmarked to support farmers, cooperatives, and gram panchayats for crop-residue management, to check stubble burning, specifically during paddy harvest. To incentivise crop diversification, a new scheme covering Bathinda, Kapurthala and Gurdaspur is being introduced for kharif maize crop. Under the Krishonnati Yojana to support critical activities, including agriculture extension, enhancing food security, promoting horticulture, seed development, boosting edible oil production and digital agriculture, Rs 149 crore has been earmarked. The government has also decided to waive loans of Rs 4,650 crore of defaulters who had availed loans from the Punjab Scheduled Castes Land Development and Finance Corporation (PSCFC). For the development of housing and urban local areas, an allocation of Rs 5,983 crore has been made and Rs 300 crore earmarked for the Punjab Municipal Services Improvement Project (PMSIP) to strengthen urban governance. Cheema announced the Mukh Mantri Street Light Yojana for the installation of 2.5 lakh street lights next year across the state. Cheema said the cost of availing doorstep delivery of government services is being reduced from Rs 120 to Rs 50. According to the Advance Estimates provided by the Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Punjab's economy is on a strong growth trajectory, registering an impressive 9 per cent growth in the current year, he said. He said as a result of this growth, Punjab's gross state domestic product (GSDP) at current prices has reached Rs 8,09,538 crore. Cheema added that this momentum of growth is likely to continue, with the GSDP at current prices being projected to expand by 10 per cent in FY 2025-26, reaching the mark of Rs 8,91,301 crore.
Notorious drug trafficker Jaggu Bhagwanpuria shifted to Central Jail in Assam
Jaggu Bhagwanpuria is believed to have continued to orchestrate criminal activities from within Bathinda Central Jail, reportedly using smuggled mobile phones and a loyal network of associates
Punjab gangster-cum-drug lord Jaggu Bhagwanpuria shifted to Silchar jail in Assam
CHANDIGARH: Gangster-cum-drug lord Jagdeep Singh alias Jaggu Bhagwanpuria, an accused in Punjab singer Sidhu Moosewalas murder case has been shifted to Silchar jail in Assam from Central Jail at Bathinda. He has been detained by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB ) under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances (PIT NDPS) Act. He is the first gangster from the State who has been detained under this act. Sources said that on March 22, a joint team of the NCB and Punjab police escorted Bhagwanpuria from Bathinda to Chandigarh under heavy security cover. He was flown to Assam via Delhi and Kolkata. He was lodged in the central jail on March 23 at Silchar. A four-member NCB team over saw the transfer of this gangster. This transfer of Singh took place following a directive dated March 21, from the Joint Secretary (PIT-NDPS). Thus, the NCB carried out his immediate transfer from high-security Bathinda to Central Jail at Silchar in Assam. As per his dossier, some 128 cases are against him, including 12 under the NDPS Act. Intelligence reports indicate his involvement with Pakistan-based suppliers and international networks in Canada and the US, underscoring the transnational nature of his activities. Sources said the PIT-NDPS case was registered in Bhagwanpuria after a detailed investigation in which it was established with evidence how he was allegedly running his operations and orchestrating drug trafficking, extortion besides violent activities from behind bars. He was also using smuggled mobiles as he was issuing instructions and talking via encrypted communication to coordinate supply chains through an extensive network of operatives. Statements from some of his co-accused have further corroborated the evidence. Singh who hails from Bhagwanpur village under the jurisdiction of Kot Surat police station in Gurdaspur district is a notorious gangster and smuggler involved in cross-border narcotics smuggling. As in many cases, he is also involved with illegal weapons (pistols and revolvers.) This is the fourth detention from Punjab under the stringent Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances (PIT NDPS) Act which allows drug traffickers to be jailed for up to one year without bail. Last year in August, the NCB detained three other alleged drug lords from the state and shifted them to Dibrugarh Central Jail in Assam. The three individuals detained are Jaspal Singh alias Goldy, Akshay Chhabra and Balwinder Singh alias Billa Havellian. Sources said that these drug smugglers are running drug syndicates from inside jails in Punjab. This move seeks to break his powerful grip on criminal networks flourishing in the state and nearby regions.
Punjab Expressway to cut Bathinda-Chandigarh travel by 50 km, details inside
The expressway will link Chandigarh to Barnala, Malerkotla, Khanna Bypass, Sirhind, and Mohali, enhancing connectivity in the region
Six including two army men arrested with assault rifle in snatching case
Bathinda Police arrested six individuals, including two Indian Army personnel, following a brief encounter. They were involved in a gunpoint robbery using an AK-47 stolen from an army unit. The incident occurred at Green Hotel near Bathinda, where Rs 7000 was snatched from the owner. Police are verifying the claims of stolen weapon and contact with army authorities is ongoing.
Man armed with iron rod attacks devotees at Golden Temple in Amritsar; five injured
CHANDIGARH: An unidentified man armed with a rod attacked devotees at the Golden Temple in Amritsar, injuring five people. Sources said that the attack took place inside the oldest Guru Ram Dass inn in the golden temple complex near the community kitchen (langar) hall. The state police have arrested the alleged accused and his aide, who had accompanied him to the golden temple. The identity of the attacker has not been officially disclosed. The police are investigating the motive behind the assault. Among the injured, a Sikh youth from Bathinda is in serious condition and is receiving treatment at the emergency wing of Sri Guru Ram Das Institute of Medical Sciences and Research at Amritsar. Meanwhile, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has strongly condemned the shocking attack on devotees and sewadars (attendants) at Sri Guru Ramdas Niwas of Golden Temple. SGPC has urged the police administration to take immediate and stringent action against the culprits and to disclose their identities to the public. SGPC Secretary Partap Singh described the incident as potentially part of a larger conspiracy and called for a thorough police investigation to uncover the truth. Providing details of the attack, he stated that while Sikh devotees from around the world had gathered to pay obeisance at golden temple on the occasion of the new Nanakshahi year, an attacker entered Sri Guru Ramdas Niwas around 12 noon and suddenly launched an assault on devotees and sewadars using an iron rod. Three devotees from Mohali, Bathinda and Patiala along with two sewadars, were injured, he said. Singh said, Alarmingly, one sewadar and a devotee from Bathinda have suffered severe head injuries and remain in critical condition. The injured individuals were immediately admitted to Sri Guru Ramdas Hospital at Vallah managed by the SGPC, where all necessary medical arrangements are being provided by the organization. He said that due to swift response and surveillance footage from the CCTV cameras installed within the Golden Temple complex, the attacker and one of his accomplice was apprehended and handed over to the police. Now, the police administration must conduct a rigorous investigation to expose the culprits and the forces behind this brutal act, he added. Singh lamented that such incidents appear to be part of a deliberate conspiracy aimed at disturbing the peace at Golden Temple, a sacred site revered for its universal message of humanity. He further warned that attempts are being made to instill fear among global Sikh devotees regarding the sanctity and safety of this holy site.
Rod-Wielding Man Assaults Devotees In Amritsar's Golden Temple, 5 Injured
The accused allegedly assaulted inside the Golden Temple with a road, causing serious injuries to a Sikh youth from Bathinda. The assailant and his accomplice were arrested.
Being A Good Person More Important Than Being A Successful Person: President Murmu
Bathinda, Mar 11: President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday asserted that morality is the foundation of a meaningful life, saying being a good person is more important than being a successful person. The president was addressing the convocation ceremony of the Central University of Punjab here. Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria and state Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khuddian were also present on the occasion. She told the students that whatever opportunities they choose in their personal lives or work should not [] The post Being A Good Person More Important Than Being A Successful Person: President Murmu appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Punjab Police arrest six for pro-Khalistan slogans, flag hoisting in CM Manns village
CHANDIGARH: Punjab Police have arrested six youths, alleged Khalistan sympathisers, for hoisting a Khalistani flag and writing pro-Khalistan slogans on the boundary wall of a government school in Satoj village, Sangrur districtthe native village of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Superintendent of Police (Investigation), Sangrur, Palwinder Singh Cheema, shared details of the case, stating, On February 12, a video went viral on social media. It was released by Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who runs the US-based pro-Khalistani group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), which has been banned by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. As Khalistani slogans were written and a flag hoisted in Satoj village, Sangrur district, the police immediately registered a First Information Report (FIR) at Dharamgarh Police Station under Sections 192, 61(2) BNS, 10, and 13 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Cheema further explained, During the investigation, it came to light that three accusedJugraj Singh alias Soni, Amritpal Singh, and Baljeet Singhhad been together in Bathinda Central Jail, as multiple cases were already registered against them. Jugraj, a resident of Biroke Kalan in Mansa district, was convicted in a case. When he was released on parole, Baljinder Singh, brother of Amritpal Singh, and Atarveer Singh, brother of Baljeet Singh, contacted him. They trained him and facilitated his direct contact with Gurpatwant Singh Pannun by making him download certain apps, he said. He added, On the intervening night of February 11 and 12, Jugraj went to Satoj village, wrote slogans, hoisted the flag, made videos, and sent them to Pannun from his phone. The police first arrested Gurmeet Singh alias Gitti, who was Jugrajs accomplice. Jugraj was then arrested, which led us to uncover the entire conspiracy. While in Bathinda Central Jail, they plotted the incident. When Jugraj was released, Baljinder Singh guided him in downloading the app, and Atarveer Singh transferred Rs 3,500 to him, Cheema said. He continued, The case was properly traced. The vehicle used, spray cans, and the flag from the incident were recovered. Additionally, five mobile phones have been seized and sent for forensic examination. Further investigation will follow after the reports come in. In this case, there are a total of seven accusedsix have been arrested, while the seventh, Pannun, remains abroad and is yet to be arrested, he added. According to police records, five FIRs were already registered against Jugraj, while three were filed against Amritpal Singh. Baljeet Singh had a prior murder case registered against him before this case. For the other three accused, this is their first offence. When asked why Satoj village was targeted, Cheema said, This was done to gain more publicity. He further revealed that Pannun has been luring innocent youth from Punjab into such illegal activities with financial temptations. His primary objective is to create unrest and fear in India, he stated.
Punjab Minister held defunct department for 21 months, opposition criticises AAP government
CHANDIGARH: The Punjab Government's Department of Administrative Reforms, which existed only on paper without any officers or staff, was being headed by Cabinet Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal for the past 21 months. Opposition parties have criticised the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led government, questioning its commitment to governance. Dhaliwal, who now retains only the NRI Affairs portfolio, responded to the controversy, saying, The Chief Minister can answer that better. I am a soldier of the party and have carried out every duty assigned to me. A gazette notification dated February 21, issued by the Cabinet Affairs Branch of the Punjab Government, stated: In partial modification of Punjab Government notification dated September 23, 2024, regarding allocation of portfolios amongst the ministers, the Department of Administrative Reforms earlier allotted to Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, Cabinet Minister, is not in existence as on date. Therefore, on the advice of the Chief Minister of Punjab, the Governor of Punjab is pleased to make the following amendment: With effect from February 7, 2025, Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal will hold the charge of NRI Affairs Minister. Previously, Dhaliwal was in charge of the Agriculture and Farmers Welfare portfolio, but he was relieved of this responsibility during a cabinet reshuffle in May 2023. He then retained the NRI Affairs Department and was also assigned the Administrative Reforms Department. In another reshuffle in September 2024, he continued to hold both portfolios, but it has now emerged that the Administrative Reforms Department did not exist. Sources within the government revealed that no staff was ever allocated to the minister for this department, no meetings were held, and no secretary was appointed. The department had been established years ago but had become defunct over time, though it remained on paper. One official noted, There have been no meetings or any programmes related to the Administrative Reforms Department. Further sources disclosed that Dhaliwal had raised concerns about the lack of clarity regarding the departments existence after he was assigned the portfolio. He reportedly asked the government about the absence of a secretary but continued to hold the department nonetheless. Dhaliwal, the fifth senior-most minister in the Punjab Cabinet after Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, New and Renewable Energy Minister Aman Arora, and Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Dr Baljit Kaur, was recently in the news for handling US deportees landing in Amritsar as the Minister for NRI Affairs. An official stated, There is a Department of Good Governance and Information Technology that is working to improve efficiency by introducing IT tools for internal governance. Opposition parties took a dig at the AAP government over the issue. Punjab Congress chief and Ludhiana MP Amrinder Singh Raja Warring wrote in a post: What a Badlaav! SAD leader and Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal also criticised the government, saying, Governance @AAPPunjab style. Allocate non-existent departments to ministers who themselves are ignorant of the portfolios they hold. All this is happening because ministers have no role in governance as the government is being run with remote control from Delhi. Punjab BJP General Secretary Subhash Sharma remarked, It shows the government's mental bankruptcy that a department, which is not in existence, has been allocated. Neither those who allotted it, nor those who had been allotted the department, were aware that it did not exist.
SGPC puts its president Dhamis resignation on hold, appeals to him to reconsider decision
CHANDIGARH: The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) on Friday decided to put the resignation of its president Harjinder Singh Dhami on hold and said that a five-member panel would meet him and urge him to reconsider his decision. On February 17, Dhami had resigned amid a row over the SGPC's decision to sack Giani Harpreet Singh as the Jathedar of the Takht Damdama Sahib near Bathinda -- one of the five seats of temporal authority of Sikhism like the Akal Takht in Amritsar. The sacking was condemned by Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh. Dhami then submitted his resignation citing 'moral grounds'. The executive committee of the SGPC appealed to Dhami to reconsider stepping down amidst the ongoing controversy over the sacking. Senior Vice-President of SGPC Ragujit Singh Virk said that Dhami's resignation was not final and emphasized the governing body's control over such appointments. A five-member delegation of executive members would approach Dhami shortly to urge him to withdraw his resignation and return to his duties, he said. Virk also cited the SGPC executive's autonomy in personnel affairs. SGPC President Dhami resigns; seeks his name be removed from 7-member panel formed by Akal Takht SGPC chief secretary Kulwant Singh Manan said Dhami is a good administrator with a clean image. His contribution to the Sikh organization could not be ignored. So, a resolution was passed in today's meeting urging Dhami to review his decision, he added. He further said that a meeting would be called soon to make stopgap arrangements for taking administrative decisions in Dhami's absence. Dhami had also announced his resignation from the seven-member committee appointed by the Akal Takht Jathedar to oversee the membership drive of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD). Giani Harpreet Singh was dismissed by the SGPC's executive body on February 10 after a three-member inquiry panel indicted him for moral misconduct in its report. Citing the Sikh Gurdwaras Act 1925, Virk, who was one of the panel members, said that the SGPC has the authority and prerogative to appoint or remove the Takht Jathedars. We are also going to ask Giani Raghbir Singh to submit a clarification on sacking Giani Harpreet Singh as it pertains to an administrative issue for which the SGPC has reserved all rights to take a decision, he said. There were serious allegations against him. After a thorough inquiry, we gathered ample evidence that held him guilty. On the basis of the report, the majority of the SGPC executive members decided to remove him as Takht Jathedar, Virk claimed.
Punjab police arrest two involved in grenade attack, recover special weapons
CHANDIGARH: Punjab Polices state special operating cell (SSOC) Amritsar arrested two members of a Pak-ISI-backed narco terror module for allegedly throwing a hand-grenade on Gumtala Police Post in Amritsar. Director General of Police, Punjab, Gaurav Yadav said on Tuesday that those arrested have been identified as Bagga Singh of Guru Teg Bahadur Nagar in Haryana's Sirsa and Puskaran Singh alias Sagar of Amarkot in Amritsar. Police teams have also recovered one hand grenade and two sophisticated pistols along with ammunition from their possession. As per official information, unidentified persons hurled a hand grenade at Gumtala Police Post in Amritsar Commissionerate on January 9 this year. Following the incident, terrorist organisation Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) claimed responsibility for this terror act on social media. The narcotics module is operated by USA-based smugglers Harpreet Singh alias Happy Passian and Sarwan Bhola. DGP Yadav said investigations revealed that arrested accused Bagga Singh is a relative of Sarwan Bhola. Bhola is the brother of notorious smuggler Ranjit Singh alias 'Cheeta', currently lodged in Bathinda jail for in a 532 kg heroin recovery case. Sarwan is also wanted in the 532 kg heroin recovery case and carries a Rs 2 lakh reward announced by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The DGP added that the accused Sarwan Bhola, who has been operating drug smuggling network from USA, has handed over his relative Bagga Singh and his associate Pushkaran to Happy Passian and Harvinder Rinda to carry out terror activities in Punjab. Yadav said that investigations are in progress in scientific manner to establish forward and backward linkages in this case and unveil the entire terror module. Sharing operation details, AIG SSOC Amritsar Sukhminder Singh Mann said following the attack at Gumtala Police Post, police teams have launched an intelligence operation and arrested the two accused. Further efforts are being made to discover the previous crimes committed by the accused persons and arrest remaining members of this module, he added.
Cold weather prevails in Punjab, Haryana; Ferozepur coldest at 2.8 deg C
Cold weather conditions dominated parts of Punjab and Haryana on Saturday. Ferozepur reported the lowest temperature at 2.8C. Faridkot, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, and Bathinda also experienced severe cold. In Haryana, Narnaul and Bhiwani registered significant lows. Chandigarh, the shared capital, saw a minimum of 8.6C, with maximum temperatures across both states ranging between 21-23C.
CBI busts Rs 350 crore crypto ponzi scam; conducts raids across 10 locations in seven states
NEW DELHI: In a major crackdown against the crypto ponzi scheme scam, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday conducted raids at 10 locations across seven states and UTs leading to the recovery of cash worth Rs 34 lakh and digital assets of US$ 38,414 approximately in the cryptocurrency wallets, officials said. Before launching the raids the agency registered an FIR against seven accused in the case involving a scam worth Rs 350 crore, they said. A senior CBI official said, The accused persons were allegedly running seven separate modules based in the cities of Delhi, Hazaribag (Jharkhand), Bathinda (Punjab), Ratlam (Madhya Pradesh), Valsad (Gujarat), Pudukkottai (Tamil Nadu) and Chittorgarh (Rajasthan), taking money from gullible investors promising investments in cryptocurrencies. He said, These ponzi schemes were being promoted through multiple social media groups. An analysis of bank account transactions and cryptocurrency wallets has revealed that the illegal proceeds from these schemes were being converted into cryptocurrencies to make their origin obscure. In the FIR the CBI has alleged that the accused had conducted transactions of over Rs 350 crore in these schemes, the officials said, adding that agency sleuths in different teams swooped down at locations in Delhi, Jharkhand, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and Rajasthan. During the searches, the officials said, the raiding teams seized digital virtual assets totalling US$ 38,414 (approximately) in the cryptocurrency wallets of the accused persons, which had been digitally secured for investigation. The searches resulted in the recovery of cash amounting to Rs 34.2 lakh (approx), along with significant digital evidence, including seven mobile phones, one laptop, one tablet, three hard disks, 10 pen drives, memory cards, SIM cards, ATM/debit cards, email accounts, and several incriminating documents, the official said. The CBI in its probe has also uncovered multiple bank accounts and Virtual Digital Asset (VDA) wallets with cryptocurrency exchanges, including CoinDCX, WazirX, Zebpay, and BitBns, held by the accused members. According to the FIR, the case has been registered under Indian Penal Code section 120-B (criminal conspiracy), read with Section 420 (cheating) and Section 66D of the Information Technology Act, 2000, because it was part of an ongoing investigation that predated the introduction of three new criminal laws last year, the officials said. In the FIR the CBI said, It was alleged that accused persons, acting in criminal conspiracy, have been actively floating various ponzi and fraudulent schemes, promising high returns based on cryptocurrency investments. They are also accused of promoting, promising, and disseminating false and deceptive information to entice investors into these unregulated deposit schemes, which operate without requisite approvals from regulatory authorities such as the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
Marwari stallion priced at Rs 21 crore at Ghora-mandi in Muktsar's Maghi Mela, 600 horses sold
CHANDIGARH: An attraction for all equestrian enthusiasts and breeders, David, a 42-month-old horse, is one of the tallest stallions and a direct descendant of the Raj Hans stallion, which was owned by former Deputy Chief Minister and ex-president of Shiromani Akali Dal, Sukhbir Singh Badal. This Marwari horse, which was on display, has an asking price of Rs 21 crore at the recently concluded Ghora-Mandi at the Maghi Mela in Muktsar. Approximately 3,000 horses and mares participated in the event, and about 600 were sold. Not only David, but another horse, Bilawal, a 69-inch-tall white stallion of the Nukra breed, also attracted attention. Its owner, Jaspal Singh from Tarkhanwala village in Muktsar, is asking for a price in crores. Another horse, a 66-inch-tall mare named Noori, is being offered by its owner, Gurmel Singh Patwar, with an asking price in lakhs. Speaking to this newspaper, Vikramjit Singh Brar, manager of Sanjam Stud Farm at Badal village, which owns David, said they have twenty horses and specialize in breeding. At the recently concluded Horse Mandi, they brought two horses: David, a 72-inch, 42-month-old stallion, and King Earth, a 20-month-old Marwari breed horse. We will not sell David below this price, Brar stated. He added that King Earth's father, Big Jasper, was sold last year for a few crores to a buyer from Pune. We charge Rs 1.25 lakh for each mating with David, as many breeders approach us for mating with his horse. When David was born, his value was around Rs 1 crore. Brar explained that breeders from Pune, Mumbai, Gujarat, and other regions come to Punjab to buy horses from breeders in Muktsar, Bathinda, Moga, Amritsar, Morinda, and other parts of the state. The price of a stallion depends on factors such as height, breeding, upkeep, and appearance. He added, The diet of the horse is 4 to 5 kg per day. Jagat Pal Singh Brar, owner of Virasat Stud Farm at Chaksherewala village, Muktsar, who has ten horses, said that there are only two top livestock fairs in the country: one at Pushkar in Rajasthan and the other at Muktsar. Breeders and others who want to buy horses come from Tamil Nadu and other South Indian states, besides Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and other places. This time, I displayed two of my stallions, both four years old: Prithvi Raj and Damdar, he said. He added that there are 70 to 80 breeders in Punjab and explained that the Nukra breed originates from Punjab, while the Marwari breed comes from Rajasthan. Sukhpal Singh Bhati, partner in the firm responsible for organizing the fair, said that this year, around 2,800 to 3,000 horses and mares were brought to the fair by stud farm owners from across the country, mainly from Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Gujarat. Of these, approximately 600 horses were sold. Foals (two months to one year old) are sold for about Rs 50,000, and the average price of normal horses is between Rs 1.50 lakh and Rs 3.50 lakh. The price depends on factors like height, legs, chest, color, teeth, trot, and body size, he said. Buyers came from across the country. Singh's company, which charges a 4 percent commission on any sale, further explained that most stud farm owners display their horses and mares at the fair for show, rather than to sell them. Horses are often sold later on, after the fair ends. An officer from the animal husbandry department, speaking on the condition of anonymity, explained that foals, colts, and fillies (one to three years old) are generally sold. White-colored horses of the Nukra breed are used for marriage functions, while Marwari horses are used for breeding. Other horses are used in polo and games like pegging. Most deals are done discreetly to avoid the 4 percent commission, and the actual price of the horse is never disclosed, he added.
Screening of Kangana Ranaut's 'Emergency' cancelled in theatres across Punjab following protests
CHANDIGARH: The cinemas and multiplexes across Punjab on Friday were forced to cancel the screening of Kangana Ranaut-starrer Emergency following protests by various Sikh organization and farmers' bodies. Kangana plays the role of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in the film. The films release was earlier delayed after the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) sought several cuts in the movie after Sikh groups raised concerns over the portrayal of the community. On Thursday, SGPC had demanded that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann ban its screening in Punjab. In a letter to Mann, SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami said the movie was a calculated attempt to distort history and harm Sikh sentiments and warned that releasing it could provoke outrage within the Sikh community. The protesters claimed that the movie hurt the sentiments of the Sikhs and provoked outrage in the community. The members of Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) protested against the movie outside the cinemas in Amritsar. Also, there were protests outside cinemas in Bathinda, Patiala, Ludhiana, Jalandhar and Hoshiarpur. The members of one of the factions of farmer union BKU gathered outside Dhillon Plaza and Cosmo Plaza in Zirakpur in SAS Nagar district near Chandigarh and protested alleging that Kangana Ranaut used vulgar language against them during the ongoing farmers' protest and in the movie, facts have been twisted to defame the Sikh community. A member of Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) said that the history of the Sikh religion and the incidents of 1984 were depicted in the movie in a distorted manner. He demanded the movie to be banned. Meanwhile, Kangana reacted to the protests saying it as a complete harassment of art and the artist. She also slammed the propaganda to tarnish her image. In a message posted on platform X, Kangana Ranaut wrote, This is complete harassment of art and the artist, from Punjab many cities are reporting that these people are not allowing Emergency to be screened. I have utmost respect for all religions and after studying and growing up in Chandigarh I have closely observed and followed sikh religion. This is complete lie and propaganda to tarnish my image and harm my film. Punjab Congress President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring said that governments and censor boards must keep an eye on films like Emergency as such films show scripted stories, which are not true and the facts are twisted otherwise, they would not be successful if there was no masala. However, theaters in the Union Territory of Chandigarh screened the movie.
Complete harassment of art and the artist: Kangana after SGPC calls for ban on Emergency
New Delhi, Jan 17: Bollywood star Kangana Ranaut on Friday said the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committees (SGPC) demand for a ban on Emergency and the films restricted screenings in parts of Punjab is a complete harassment of art and the artist. On Thursday, SGPC chief Harjinder Singh Dhami wrote to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann demanding a ban on the movie, which released across the country on Friday. Many cinemas in Ludhiana, Amritsar, Patiala and Bathinda did not screen Emergency [] The post Complete harassment of art and the artist: Kangana after SGPC calls for ban on Emergency appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Why this Punjab panchayat offers cash for weddings
A panchayat in Punjab's Bathinda district has announced an incentive of Rs 21,000 to families who won't serve liquor or play DJ music at wedding ceremonies. The decision was taken to encourage villagers not to indulge in wasteful expenditure on marriage functions and curb liquor abuse.
Punjab village bans liquor, DJs at weddings; offers Rs 21000 incentive for simple celebrations
CHANDIGARH: To encourage villagers not to indulge in wasteful expenditure and curb liquor use in marriage functions, the Balo village panchayat in Punjab's Bathinda district has announced to give a cash incentive of Rs 21,000, as a token of blessing, to families who would follow the conditions. The sale of energy drinks has also been banned in the village. Ballo village sarpanch Amarjit Kaur said it is generally seen that there were frequent fights at functions where alcohol is served and they are often accompanied by loud music played by disc jockeys (DJs). It causes disturbance to the villagers, especially the students. Thus this decision was taken to encourage villagers not to indulge in wasteful expenditure on marriage functions. The panchayat has passed a resolution under which if a family does not serve liquor and play DJ music at wedding functions, it will be given Rs 21,000, the village sarpanch said. She said the initiative would encourage the villagers to embrace sober and meaningful celebrations, aligned with Punjabi culture. We want to set an example for other villages by promoting discipline and responsibility during family events as weddings should symbolise joy and harmony, not chaos or overindulgence, said Kaur. A villager said that the extravagant weddings put unnecessary pressure on families. But a a few other villagers expressed scepticism and questioned whether the incentive would be enough to bring a change. Kaur said the panchayat had sought the government to set up a stadium in the village so the youth could be encouraged to take part in sports activities. The panchayat has also proposed to set up a biogas plant in the village and free seeds would be given to farmers under the Guru Nanak Bagichi Scheme who opted for organic farming. Other resolutions passed by the panchayat include free coaching for the youths preparing for the civil services exam. The panchayat would honour a man and a woman for doing community service with Rs 11,000 on martyrdom day of Shaheed Bhagat Singh.
Punjab plans to launch drug policy focusing on de-addiction alongside centralised patient registry
CHANDIGARH: The Punjab Government is planning to launch a drug control policy focusing on prevention, enforcement, de-addiction and rehabilitation. The state is also planning to launch a centralised platform to manage and monitor patient registration across various Outpatient Opioid Assisted Treatment (OOAT) and private centres to prevent the misuse of detoxification medicine Buprenorphine and improve patient care. Sources said that the policy will focus on strategies to wean away youth from drug consumption. The community policing wing of Punjab Police will be mandated to nudge youth away from drugs. Schools and higher education departments are contemplating the revision of school and college curriculum, and add chapters on drug abuse awareness. Educational institutions will also hire faculty to educate students about the ill-effects of drug usage. The government is seeking to replicate the Manipur State Policy on Substance Use in the state. The focus of the policy is on community-based detoxification and home detoxification of drug addicts and the measures include ready availability of medicines that can prevent drug overdose deaths, if given on time besides understands gender-specific problems in treatment and rehabilitation, said an officer, adding that the policy will be rolled out within two months. The government is also planning to start at least two more de-addiction and rehabilitation clinics for women, as only one centre at Kapurthala is currently operational. There are 303 drug de-addiction and rehabilitation centres across the state, including private centres, besides 590 outpatient opioid assisted treatment (OOAT) clinics and mobile OOATs. A significant number of patients seek treatment in Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Tarn Taran and Bathinda districts. The centres will now focus on de-addiction from pharma opioids, although opioid substitution therapy will continue to be used to wean addicts off other narcotic substances, said sources. Notably, many addicts are in the age group of 18 to 25 years. The state health department has developed a drug de-addiction registry portal that leverages Aadhaar-based biometric authentication to provide a unique identification for each patient. This will ensure secure and accurate record-keeping while protecting patient privacy through the use of a secure data vault for Aadhaar-related information. This helps the government to monitor the dispensing of medicines to patients at treatment centres and ensure accountability. At present, there are about 10 lakh substance abuse patients undergoing treatment in the state of these seven lakh are in private facilities as around 180 private centers. A State Steering Committee headed by Chief Secretary KAP Sinha with Principal Secretary Rahul Tiwari as its nodal officer has already been formed to monitor and coordinate the de-addiction and rehabilitation programme. A few days back Punjab Vigilance Bureau had arrested Amit Bansal for committing illegal activities at the 22 de-addiction centres being by run him in different parts of the state where some tablets are used for the treatment of addict patients. During interrogations it has came to fore that these tablets were misused in the drug de-addiction centers run and owned by the accused Dr Amit Bansal and were sold in the market to other persons (addicts) which were not on the rolls of these rehabilitation centers, said an officer. Punjab Police bust cross-border drug cartel; arrest 12 including five from J&K
Clamour grows to confer Bharat Ratna, Panth Rattan titles on Former PM Manmohan Singh
CHANDIGARH: Leader of Opposition in Punjab legislative assembly and Senior Congress leader Partpal Singh Bajwa has suggested for a joint assembly resolution to seek Bharat Ratna for former PM Dr Manmohan Singh. He expressed it in a letter to Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and assembly speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan. Bajwa also wrote to other prominent leaders, including Manpreet Singh Ayali of SAD, Ashwani Sharma of BJP and Nachhatar Pal of BSP that a joint resolution in the assembly would recognize Manmohan Singhs unparalleled contributions to the nation and his deep-rooted connection to Punjab. Bajwas letter highlighted former PMs transformative role as the architect of Indias economic liberalization in 1991. The move not only revived the Indian economy but also positioned the country as a global economic powerhouse. He consistently prioritised inclusive growth, economic stability, and social justice impacting millions across India. Manmohan Singh is a proud son of Punjab and his journey is an inspiration to all, Bajwa stated. Born in Punjab, his life exemplifies resilience, humility, and selfless service. He has not only brought pride to our state but also addressed critical issues in agriculture, rural development, and education, leaving a lasting impact on Punjab and the nation as a whole, he also stated. Bajwa has also proposed the formation of an all-party delegation to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and advocate for the recognition. He remarked that Singhs calm demeanour, intellectual acumen, and bipartisan approach made him a unifying force in Indian politics. Honouring him with the Bharat Ratna would inspire future generations and acknowledge his exceptional contributions to Indias growth and global stature, he said. Punjab Congress President and Member of Parliament Amarinder Singh Raja Warring appealed to Akal Takht (Highest Temporal Seat of Sikhs) Jathedar (High priest) Giani Raghbir Singh to confer the prestigious Panth Rattan title to former PM in recognition of his contributions to the nation and the Sikh community. Confer Bharat Ratna on Singh: Telangana to Centre Warring wrote a letter to Raghbir Singh which read, Manmohan Singh not only made exceptional contributions to the economic growth of India but also upheld the values of simplicity and righteousness, embodying the true spirit of Sikhism. During his tenure as the prime minister, Singh implemented a landmark agricultural loan waiver of Rs 60,000 crore. The waiver provided essential relief to farmers in Punjab. The agricultural community which holds a central place in Sikh heritage, greatly benefited from it. Warring also underscored Singhs significant role in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots aftermath. He pointed out that the ex-PM had publicly apologised in the Parliament for the tragic events and added that Singhs commitment to the development of Punjab, especially the rural areas. Manmohan Singh government allocated substantial funds for improving rural infrastructure and living conditions across the state, he said. Former chairperson of the National Commission for Minorities, Tarlochan Singh wrote a letter to Gursharan Kaur, wife of late PM Manmohan Singh. In the letter, Singh suggested setting up a school of economics or school of administration in Delhi in honour of Manmohan Singh. A permanent exhibition on the life and works of Dr Sahib can be part of it too, he wrote to Kaur. Tarlochan Singh emphasised that traditionally, Sikhs do not build memorials or samadhis (mausoleums) for individuals regardless of their stature or contributions. There is great confusion about the use of the word 'memorial' which I think is improper. In the entire Rajghat area, there are only one-foot high platforms for each of the President and Prime Ministers who were cremated there. No structure of any kind has been put up. You are aware that in Sikh religion even samadhi is not allowed. The Sikh religious leaders have not accepted even the one of Giani Zail Singh, the letter added. Meanwhile, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) will hold an Akhand Path and Ardas at the Golden Temple in Amritsar in memory of Manmohan Singh. SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal shared the announcement on social media, stating that the ceremony will pray for peace to the departed soul. SAD acknowledges values and respects the extraordinary services which the late prime minister rendered to the nation and the pride he has brought to the Sikh quom (community) all over the world, wrote Sukhbir on X. Dr Sahib (Manmohan Singh) and my late father Parkash Singh Badal shared a special emotional bond and a vision for peace, communal harmony and development, he added. SAD also plans to request the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) to install Singhs portrait in the Sikh Museum at the Golden Temple complex. Dr Manmohan Singhs father went to jail during the Morcha for the establishment of SGPC. He himself was a member of the All India Sikh Students Federation, Badal said. Recalling the late Singhs commitment to Sikh institutions, Badal said Singh had even opposed the Congress-led attempt to form a separate gurdwara committee in Haryana. When the Congress sought to split SGPC, I accompanied Badal (My Father) to request Dr Sahib to intervene. His response was unforgettable: I understand the importance of SGPC as my father had gone to jail for its formation, he also recalled. On Friday, Badals wife and Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal on Friday personally conveyed the partys humble wish and decision in this regard to Gursharan Kaur. Memorial for Manmohan Singh is a requiem for a lost dream
'My life not as important as yours': Dallewal tells farmers at Khanauri Mahapanchayat
CHANDIGARH: Addressing the Kisan Mahapanchayat at the Khanauri border (Punjab-Haryana border), farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal on Saturday said that he is more concerned about the lives of his fellow farmers who are eeling under distress due to the challenges in the sector. My life is not as important as the lives of lakhs of Indian farmers, who are reeling under distress. Already over seven lakh farmers have died by suicide owing to the distress in the farming sector, Dallewal said. Addressing a massive gathering of farmers , Dallewal on the 40th day of his fast-unto-death, urged them to ensure representation from every village at the Khanauri border, where farmers under the banner of Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, have been camping at since February 13 last year, after their march to Delhi was stopped by Haryana Police. Speaking of his fast, a fragile Dallewal said that the police made several attempts to take him to the hospital, but they were foiled by the volunteers. Thanking the protesting farmers for their steadfast support, Dallewal urged them to remain united in the struggle. The 70-year old leader's words resonated with the audience, drawing loud cheers and renewed pledges of commitment to the movement. There was a massive turn up of crowd at the Mahapanchayat to listen to Dallewal as hours before he underwent an ECG test and his report was stated to be normal. He thanked the people for turning up in large numbers. Meanwhile, doctors attending Dallewal advised that he should not speak much as it could deteriorate his health. According to sources, bringing him on the stage amid the cold wave was a challenge as his blood pressure was fluctuating. A makeshift cubical was built on the stage from where Dallewal addressed the gathering. The venue of the mahapanchayat was spread over a four-kilometer stretch along the highway in Khanauri, which is otherwise known as truck scrap yard of Punjab which was transformed into a bustling tent city. With a Supreme Court order directing the Punjab government to hospitalise Dallewal immediately, the farmers, in a stunning show of solidarity, fortified the area at Khanauri with over 100 trailers parked next to each other and some even welded together. There was a massive turn up of crowd at the Mahapanchayat to listen to Dallewal as hours before he underwent an ECG test and his report was stated to be normal. Besides, some 700 farmers also give thikri pehra (night vigil) and have set up three checkpoints to monitor and control access to the area. Anti-fog torches were given to volunteers to keep an eye around the pandal where Dallewal was fasting. Meanwhile, three women activists of farmer organisation, BKU Ekta Ugrahan, were killed and 36 others sustained injuries when the bus they were travelling to SKM Mahapanchayat in Tohana in Haryana met with an accident at Barnala in Punjab. Dallewal also expressed condolences for the farmers who died in the accident. The three deceased women were identified as Sarbjit Kaur (55), Balbir Kaur (67) and Jabir Kaur, all residents of Kotha Guru village in Bathinda. The injured were rushed to Civil Hospital at Barnala, for treatment, from where about a dozen injured persons were discharged after giving treatment. More than 50 farmers were travelling on the bus. In another accident, five activists of BKU (Sidhupur) were injuried when their bus met with an accident near Barnala as farmers were going from Dallewala village to Khanauri to participate in the Kisan Mahapanchayat. Farmer leader Kaka Singh Kotda said that a parallel protest at Tohana in Haryana by the SKM would have no impact on their protest. After attending the kisan maha panchayat in Tohana, BKU national spokesperson Rakesh Tikai said that the next farmers' agitation will be on the KMP Expressway to block Delhi as a broad outline on this has been prepared for that. Besides a legally guaranteed MSP, the farmers have been demanding a farm loan waiver, pension for farmers and farm labourers, no hike in the electricity tariff, withdrawal of police cases and justice for the victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence, reinstatement of the Land Acquisition Act, 2013 and compensation to the families of the farmers who died during a previous agitation in 2020-21. 'Why can't Centre say it will consider genuine grievances of farmers?' SC asks
NHAI seeks Punjab government's help to acquire land for stalled highway projects
CHANDIGARH: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is implementing 37 projects, spanning a total length of 1,344 kilometres in Punjab, with an estimated cost exceeding Rs 50,000 crore. However, it is yet to acquire possession of 103 kilometres of land required to complete 15 highway projects covering 604 kilometres in the state. The primary project facing delays is the flagship Delhi-Amritsar-Katra expressway, which has been stalled due to protests by farmers. Sources revealed that the NHAI has once again raised the issue with the state government. In a letter addressed to Punjab Chief Secretary KAP Sinha, the authority has requested directions to the relevant administrative and police officials to extend necessary support in securing possession of the remaining parcels of acquired land. This is crucial for executing work on the 15 stalled highway projects in Punjab and completing three stretches of the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra expressway. The multi-state expressway, spanning 669 kilometres, is a four-lane access-controlled corridor connecting Jasaur Kheri in Jhajjar district of Haryana with Katra in Jammu and Kashmir. Of this, a 295.51-kilometre stretch passes through Punjab. Possession of 102.73 kilometres of the total 604-kilometre length in the remaining 15 projects is to be handed over to the NHAI, for which administrative/police assistance is required, the letter states. The other projects facing delays include Beas-Dera Baba Nanak, Amritsar-Una, Amritsar Bypass, Abohar-Fazilka, Amritsar-Bathinda, Moga-Bajakhana, Ludhiana-Bathinda, Ludhiana-Ropar, and the Southern Ludhiana Bypass. Meanwhile, the construction of 22 highways, covering 740 kilometres, is progressing at full pace after acquiring the necessary land. Earlier, these projects had also faced delays due to difficulties in securing land possession. The NHAI has faced repeated hurdles in Punjab due to farmers protests and delays in land acquisition. Many projects had remained stalled for a long time before gaining momentum following Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkaris warning that these projects would be cancelled if the state government failed to hand over the required land. Following this, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, the then Chief Secretary Anurag Verma, and Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav intervened. They engaged with farmers through discussions and offered enhanced compensation for their land, successfully securing over 94 per cent of the acquired land for these projects. Sources added that several of these projects are divided into multiple packages, with work awarded to the same or different bidders. Earlier, three greenfield projectsSouthern Ludhiana Bypass, Ludhiana-Rupnagar highway, and Ludhiana-Bathinda highwaywere terminated. These were six-lane projects developed under the Hybrid Annuity Model. Subsequently, the NHAI decided to issue fresh tenders and re-award work for the terminated and stalled highway projects in Punjab.
Punjab: State-Wide Bandh by Farmers Against Centre on MSP Paralyses Life
New Delhi/Chandigarh: Life was badly hit across Punjab on Monday following a state-wide bandh call given by farmers who have been agitating against the Centre for a legal guarantee of a minimum support price for their crops. Rail and road traffic was crippled and commercial establishments remained shut in many parts of the state. The protesting farmers held dharnas on several roads as part of their bandh call, throwing commuter traffic out of gear. A shutdown call was given over a week ago by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha over the Centre not acting on the farmers demand for a legal guarantee for the MSP. As the indefinite hunger strike of farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal entered its 35th day on Monday, the Supreme Court will on Tuesday examine the Punjab governments measures to provide treatment to the ailing farmer leader. A team of the Punjab government officials on December 29 had attempted to persuade the septuagenarian to take medical aid, but he declined it, fearing use of forces to oust him from the protest site. In a related development, the Supreme Court panel formed under the chairmanship of retired Justice Nawab Singh has invited the SKM for talks on January 3. It is learnt that the farmers outfit has accepted this invitation. The protesting farmers have been camping at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13 after their march to Delhi was stopped by the security forces. A jatha (group) of 101 farmers had attempted to march to Delhi on foot three times between December 6 and 14 but were stopped by security personnel from Haryana. Besides MSP, the farmers are also demanding a debt waiver, pension, no hike in electricity tariffs, withdrawal of police cases, and justice for the victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence. On Monday, the farmers observed a sit-in at Dhareri Jattan toll plaza, which affected vehicular movement on the Patiala-Chandigarh National Highway. At Amritsar's Golden Gate, scores of farmers assembled near the city's entry point. Dharnas were also held in Bathinda's Rampura Phul. In Phagwara, farmers held a dharna near the Sugarmill crossing on NH-44, blocking the roads leading from Phagwara towards Nakodar, Hoshiarpur and Nawanshahr. They also staged a dharna at Behram toll plaza on Phagwara-Banga road. Grain markets also remained shut in several places. Public transport remained off roads at several places, while most private bus operators suspended services, abiding by the bandh call. The band's impact was also seen in some neighbouring areas of the state, including Ambala. Hundreds of daily commuters travelling from Ambala to Chandigarh, Mohali, Patiala and other nearby cities of Punjab were thrown off stride because of the shutdown. Buses took alternate routes to go from Ambala to Chandigarh as they had to cross a stretch of the national highway that passes through Punjab. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher told reporters in Amritsar that their strike received strong support from transporters, employee unions, traders bodies, and religious bodies. Mr Pandher also said that emergency and other essential services were allowed to operate. He said anyone travelling to the airport to catch a flight, anyone going to attend a job interview, or anyone needing to attend a wedding, were also allowed. All establishments remained shut. Punjabis have shown their unity today and they are extending full support, Mr Pandher claimed. The bandh is successful. Train services have been completely suspended and no train is entering Punjab, he said.
Punjab bandh: Farmers block roads at many places, traffic hit on Patiala-Chandigarh NH
CHANDIGARH: Farmers blocked roads at many places across the state on Monday as part of their Punjab bandh call, hamstringing the commuter traffic. A call for a shutdown was given last week by Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha over the Centre not accepting the demands of protesting farmers. The bandh will be observed from 7 am to 4 pm . Farmers observed a sit-in at Dhareri Jattan Toll Plaza which affected vehicular movement on the Patiala-Chandigarh National Highway. At Amritsar's Golden Gate, farmers started to assemble near the city's entry point while in Bathinda's Rampura Phul, they blocked roads. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher on Sunday said though there will be a complete bandh, emergency services will be allowed to operate. The bandh will be observed from 7 am to 4 pm. However, emergency services will remain operational. Anyone travelling to the airport to catch a flight or anyone going to attend a job interview, or anyone needs to attend a wedding... all these things have been kept out of our bandh call, he said. Meanwhile, 70-year-old farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal's hunger strike entered its 35th day on Monday. Dallewal has so far refused medical treatment. Hundreds of farmers have been protesting at the Punjab-Haryana border demanding a legal guarantee of a minimum support price (MSP) for crops. Dallewal had earlier said he would not break his fast until the government agreed to the farmers' demands. The apex court has given the Punjab government time till December 31 to persuade Dallewal to shift to a hospital, granting the state the liberty to seek logistical support from the Centre, if necessary. Farmers, under the banner of SKM (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, have been camping at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13, after their march to Delhi was stopped by security forces. A jatha (group) of 101 farmers attempted to march to Delhi on foot three times between December 6 and 14 but were stopped by security personnel from Haryana. Besides the MSP, farmers are also demanding a debt waiver, pension, no hike in electricity tariffs, withdrawal of police cases, and justice for the victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence. Delhi chalo: Haryana police fire teargas at farmers as they near barricades at Sambhu border
Viral Video: Bathinda factory workers caught making gajak with feet, sparks outrage
A viral video showed workers crushing Gajak with their feet in Bathinda. The factory was found to be unlicensed and unhygienic. Authorities seized 4.5 quintals of Gajak and sealed the premises. The owner faces legal action and could be fined. This incident highlights the need for stricter food safety regulations.
BATHINDA, Dec 27: Eight people died and many were injured on Friday when a private bus crashed through a railing of a bridge here and plunged into a drain a few feet below, police said. The bus had over 45 passengers and it fell in Lasara drain at Jeewan Singhwala village, officials said. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp The accident occurred when the bus was enroute to Bathinda from Talwandi Sabo. Locals rushed to the spot immediately [] The post 8 killed in bus mishap appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Punjab: Eight killed, many injured in Bathinda bus accident
Bathinda: Eight people died and many were injured on Friday, December 27, when a private bus crashed through the railing of a bridge here and plunged into a drain a few feet below, police said. The bus had over 45 passengers and it fell into Lasara drain at Jeewan Singhwala village, officials said. The accident Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Bus accident claims eight lives, leaves many injured in Punjab's Bathinda
BATHINDA: Eight people died and many were injured on Friday when a private bus crashed through a railing of a bridge here and plunged into a drain a few feet below, police said. The accident occurred when the bus was enroute to Bathinda from Talwandi Sabo. The bus had over 45 passengers and it fell in Lasara drain at Jeewan Singhwala village, officials said. Locals rushed to the spot immediately to help the passengers, they said. Eight people have died in the accident, the police said. #WATCH | In a bus accident, 8 people lost their lives in Punjab's Bathinda Deputy Commissioner Bathinda, Showkat Ahmad Parray says, 8 people have died unfortunately, including a 2-year-old girl - 5 of them were in Talwandi hospital, other three people lost their lives in the pic.twitter.com/VeHicDNkyf ANI (@ANI) December 27, 2024 Police and district administration also launched a rescue operation and took the injured to a hospital. A team of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) also reached the spot to provide assistance, they added. The weather was inclement in the area, the officials said, while adding that exact cause of the accident is yet to be ascertained. Bathinda Deputy Commissioner Showkat Ahmad Parray, who reached the spot to supervise the rescue operation, said medical teams and ambulances were rushed to the spot.
8 dead, 26 injured as bus plunges into drain in Punjab's Bathinda
Eight people, including a 2-year-old girl, died and 26 others were injured when a bus plunged into a drain near Jiwan Singh Wala village in Bathinda district. The driver lost control of the speeding bus, possibly due to lightning. Locals and officials carried out a rescue operation and transported the injured to nearby hospitals.
8 Dead After Bus Falls Off Bridge Amid Heavy Rain In Punjab's Bathinda
Eight people were killed when a bus fell off a bridge amid heavy rain in Punjab's Bathinda on Friday. The bridge had no railings, which could have prevented the bus from falling into the nullah below.
Over 20 injured as bus plunges down few feet down from bridge in Punjab's Bathinda
The accident occurred when the bus was en rote Bhatinda from Talwandi Sabo. Locals rushed to the spot immediately to help the people get out of the bus
2 Killed, Over 20 Injured After Bus Falls Into Drain In Punjab's Bathinda
The accident took place when the bus, carrying 50 passengers fell into a drain in Jiwan Singh Wala village, while traveling from Sardulgarh to Bathinda
Over 20 injured as bus plunges few feet down from bridge in Punjab's Bathinda
