NHRC summons Punjab chief Secy over Tarn Taran bus tragedy; had flagged serious safety risks
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 15 (IANS) The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a conditional summons to the Punjab government over serious safety violations in buses operating under the Mukhyamantri Tirth Yatra Yojana. The summons was issued by a Bench presided over by member Priyank Kanoongo to the Chief Secretary, Government of Punjab. Five people were killed, and 16 others sustained injuries after two buses carrying pilgrims collided head-on on the Tarn Taran-Bathinda National Highway near Naushehra Pannuan village in Punjabs Tarn Taran district on Saturday. The NHRC, in a press statement on Saturday, said that in its earlier proceedings, it had flagged recurring fatal accidents involving passenger and sleeper buses, structural deficiencies and violations of CIRT guidelines, and had called for urgent preventive measures. A subsequent complaint by the Network for Access to Justice & Multidisciplinary Outreach Foundation highlighted serious safety concerns in buses deployed under Punjabs Mukhyamantri Tirth Yatra Yojana, including alleged unauthorised structural modifications, obstruction of emergency exits, and deficiencies in fire safety and emergency evacuation arrangements, it said. The NHRC had directed the Punjab government to inspect all buses operating under the scheme and immediately withdraw vehicles that failed to meet mandatory safety standards. However, the state government failed to demonstrate effective action on these directions, the statement mentioned. The NHRC said that despite the specific and time-bound directions of the Commission, the Chief Secretary, Government of Punjab, has not submitted the requisite Action Taken Report. No report indicating the inspections conducted, safety deficiencies identified, corrective measures undertaken or accountability fixed has been received from the State Government till date. The subsequent collision between two buses under the same scheme in Tarn Taran on 14 November 2026, resulting in four reported deaths and injuries to around 30 people, has brought these concerns into sharp focus, it added. Taking serious note of the continued non-compliance and the reported tragedy, the Commission deplored the lackadaisical approach of the authorities and issued a conditional summons to the Chief Secretary, Punjab, directing him to appear before the Commission. The Commission observed that ensuring the safety of passengers, particularly senior citizens and other vulnerable persons travelling under a Government-sponsored welfare scheme, is a direct responsibility of the State and the competent regulatory authorities. Such schemes cannot be implemented at the cost of human life, and compliance with mandatory vehicle safety standards cannot be reduced to a mere procedural formality. The continued failure to respond to the Commission's directions, particularly when the very risks highlighted in the complaint have now reportedly culminated in a fatal accident, is viewed with utmost seriousness, the NHRC statement said. The NHRC has directed the Chief Secretary to submit details of bus inspections, safety compliance, corrective measures, action against non-compliant vehicles and a detailed report on the Tarn Taran accident. Failure to submit comprehensive reports by the stipulated deadline will require the Chief Secretary to appear before the Commission. The Commission has reiterated that passenger safety, particularly that of senior citizens and other vulnerable persons, is the direct responsibility of the State and regulatory authorities, it said.
Punjab: Five dead in Tarn Taran road accident; PM Modi condoles deaths
Punjab: Five dead in Tarn Taran road accident; PM Modi condoles deaths Tarn Taran: Five people were killed, and 16 others sustained injuries after two buses carrying pilgrims collided head-on on the Tarn Taran-Bathinda National Highway near Naushehra Pannuan village in Punjabs Tarn Taran district on Saturday, prompting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to express grief [] The post Punjab: Five dead in Tarn Taran road accident; PM Modi condoles deaths appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
CAQM Chief visits Punjab as stubble burning cases cross 5,500
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 12 (IANS) With the number of farm fires in Punjab crossing the 5,500 mark by Wednesday, Union Minister of Environment Bhupender Yadav directed Rajesh Verma, chairperson, Centre for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in NCR and adjoining areas, to visit the state and review the situation. Verma visited Fatehgarh Sahib, Khanna and Patiala on Thursday, November 12, 2026, to review crop residue management and enforcement measures amid the recent rise in stubble-burning incidents. During his meeting with officials, the CAQM chief focused on intensified patrolling, satellite monitoring of fire hotspots, effective utilisation of CRM machinery and promoting the use of paddy straw as industrial boiler fuel. Directions were issued to district administrations and police for strict enforcement, stronger coordination, enhanced field monitoring and zero tolerance towards stubble burning, the ministry has said. On November 11, the cumulative number of stubble burning cases in the district reached 5,517. The maximum number of cases were reported from the Ferozepur, Tarn Taran and Sangrur districts. Despite government orders, farmers are continuing with the activity. On November 10, there were 345 fresh incidents in the state. A day later, 515 cases were reported, impacting air quality in the Delhi NCR region severely. According to government statistics, 4,657 cases of stubble burning were recorded in the state between September 15 and November 9. Ferozepur contributed 728 of these, followed by Tarn Taran (687), Sangrur (628) and Bathinda (499). Authorities have swung into action and registered 1,259 FIRs under Section 223 (disobedience of order promulgated by public servant) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Fines, totalling more than Rs 85 lakh, have been imposed in 1,695 cases. Of this, nearly Rs 37 lakh has been recovered. The government has also made 1,637 red entries in land records for stubble burning. A farmer with a red entry is not entitled to receive a loan against his farmland or sell it. Farmers resort to stubble burning to clear their farmlands for the wheat crop immediately after paddy is harvested in October and November. The monitoring period starts from September 15, two weeks ahead of paddy procurement. While incidents continue to be reported, numbers have come down significantly over the last few years. In 2023, the number of cases reported was 36,663. This fell to 10,909 in 2024 and 5,114 in 2025. The figure has gone up this year. Officials have said that not all farm fires get recorded, as farmers have shifted the timing to between 4 pm and 6 pm to avoid the standard afternoon satellite observation period.
Punjab stubble burning: 5,517 cases reported, Ferozepur tops list with 728
The report, updated till November 11, stated that Tarn Taran recorded 687 incidents, followed by Sangrur with 628 and Bathinda with 499. Patiala ranked fifth with 374 cases
Punjab records 5,517 stubble-burning incidents; Ferozepur tops the list with 728 cases
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Nov 12 (IANS) Stubble-burning incidents continue to be reported across Punjab amid the ongoing paddy harvesting season, with the state recording a total of 5,517 such cases so far, according to the latest report of the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB). Of the total incidents reported across the state, Ferozepur is at the top with 728 cases, while 374 cases have been recorded in Patiala district, placing it fifth among districts with the highest number of stubble-burning incidents. The PPCB report, up to Wednesday (November 11), states that 96.65 per cent of the total paddy area of 32.87 lakh hectares in Punjab has been harvested so far. Meanwhile, the district administrations and the Pollution Control Board are closely monitoring the situation and taking action against farmers found burning crop residue. This comes as North India continues to grapple with the alarming pollution levels. As part of the enforcement measures, authorities have inspected 4,620 fields across the state, while physical verification of reported stubble-burning incidents has been carried out at 2,003 locations. The authorities have imposed fines amounting to Rs 85.90 lakh as 'Environmental Compensation' (EC) in connection with stubble-burning cases. Of this amount, Rs 37.55 lakh has been recovered so far. In addition, First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered in 1,259 cases, while 'red entries' have been recorded in the revenue records in 1,637 cases. The report further states that authorities have issued 1,435 warnings and show-cause notices to those allegedly involved in stubble burning as part of the action being taken to curb the practice. In Patiala district, around 98 per cent of the total paddy area measuring 2.314 lakh hectares has been harvested. Despite the high level of harvesting, the district has reported 374 stubble-burning incidents so far, officials said. Of these cases, officials have inspected 282 fields, while physical verification of the incidents has been completed at 184 locations. The district administration has also initiated enforcement action against those found responsible for burning crop residue. According to the officials, fines worth Rs 6.70 lakh have been imposed as Environmental Compensation in Patiala, out of which Rs 2.60 lakh has been recovered. Furthermore, FIRs have been registered in 153 stubble-burning cases, while 'red entries' have been made in the revenue records in 120 cases. Patiala has also issued 390 warnings and show-cause notices in connection with stubble-burning incidents, the highest number among all districts in Punjab, according to the report. The report also highlights that three fields in Patiala district have been identified where stubble burning was confirmed by non-AFL (non-Agriculture Field Level) officials. Across Punjab, a total of 147 such fields have been identified by the authorities. Among the districts reporting the highest number of stubble-burning incidents, Ferozepur is at the top with 728 cases. Tarn Taran follows with 687 incidents, while Sangrur has reported 628 cases. Bathinda stands fourth with 499 incidents, followed by Patiala with 374 cases. The authorities continue to monitor the situation and enforce measures to discourage farmers from burning crop residue, officials said.
Start agitation against drugs, Harsimrat Badal appeals to Punjab women
Digital Desk | Amritsar, Nov 10 (IANS) Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Harsimrat Kaur Badal on Tuesday appealed to the Mai Bhago di Fauj to start an andolan against drugs on the pattern of the Kisan Andolan, asserting only a large-scale sustained campaign by those who are most affected by this menace can eradicate it once and for all. The Bathinda MP, who addressed gatherings of women at Attari and Raja Sansi in Amritsar district, said, I appeal to you to start a mass movement against drugs by forming jathas to make these messengers of death aware that you are fully organised to take them on. You should also start thikri pehra in your villages to deny access to drug traffickers. Asserting that the women themselves would have to take charge of the fight against drugs, Harsimrat Badal said: Both the previous Congress and the present Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) governments have failed you. Instead of fulfilling their guarantee to end this menace, they have presided over its spread. She also accused the AAP government of betraying women by promising them Rs 60,000 but disbursing only Rs 3,000 to purchase their votes. Is this satkar (respect) for women or an insult to them? She said if anybody had respected women as a chief minister, it was Parkash Singh Badal who started the Shagun scheme for them, besides distributing cycles to girls and initiating the aata daal scheme. All this and more was done without giving any guarantee, she added. Harsimrat Badal also said the situation had become such that Punjab was ranked number one in drug smuggling and number two in drug overdose deaths. Even while we have achieved this dubious distinction under the AAP rule, we have gone down to the 18th position in education and health parameters nationally. This is the reason why women are coming up to me everywhere and telling me they have no demand except ending the drug menace in the state, she added.
Punjab records 4,657 stubble-burning cases; 1,442 FIRs registered
Digital Desk | Patiala, Nov 10 (IANS) Punjab has recorded 4,657 stubble-burning incidents despite continued administrative action and monitoring to curb the practice, with 1,442 FIRs registered and environmental compensation of Rs 7.28 crore imposed, according to the latest report of the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB). The report stated that of the total environmental penalties imposed, Rs 3.36 crore has been recovered so far. According to the data, harvesting has been completed across 93.70 per cent of the states total paddy area of 32.87 lakh hectares. Administrative and monitoring teams have continued inspections of agricultural fields to identify stubble-burning incidents and verify cases on the ground. So far, inspections have been conducted at 3,845 fields where fires were reported, while physical verification has confirmed evidence of stubble burning at 1,675 locations, as of November 9. In Patiala district, 299 stubble-burning incidents have been recorded. Of these, field inspections have been carried out in 195 cases, while physical evidence of burning has been confirmed at 122 locations. The district has registered 86 FIRs in connection with stubble burning and imposed environmental penalties amounting to Rs 43.50 lakh, of which Rs 15 lakh has been recovered. Additionally, red entries have been made in land records in 35 cases, while 185 warning notices have been issued. A district-wise analysis shows that Tarn Taran has recorded the highest number of stubble-burning incidents in the state, with 659 cases, followed by Ferozepur with 621 cases. Sangrur has reported 508 incidents, while Bathinda has recorded 412 cases, highlighting the continuing challenge faced by authorities in these districts. In terms of FIRs, Ferozepur has registered 365 cases, while Tarn Taran has recorded 307 FIRs. Sangrur has registered 80 FIRs, whereas Bathinda has reported 19. The figures indicate that enforcement measures, including field inspections, registration of criminal cases, environmental penalties and warning notices, are continuing across Punjab. However, the persistence of thousands of stubble-burning incidents despite these measures remains a major challenge for the state administration and its efforts to ensure effective crop residue management. The PPCB data also highlights the scale of the monitoring exercise, with thousands of field inspections undertaken and financial penalties imposed to discourage farmers from burning crop residue.
AIIMS Bathinda Faculty Recruitment 2026
All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bathinda (AIIMS Bathinda), Recruitment Cell, has released Notification No. AIIMS/BTI/RC/Faculty/2026/2490 for 55 vacancies, including Professor, Additional Professor, Associate Professor, and Assistant Professor posts. Eligible candidates can apply online at aiimsbathinda.edu.in from 09 November 2026 to 30 November 2026.
Conspiracy: Delhi Minister Kapil Mishra on spurt in stubble burning on Diwali in Punjab
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 9 (IANS) Delhi Minister Kapil Mishra on Monday raised questions over the spurt in stubble-burning incidents in Punjab on Diwali, hinting at a conspiracy behind the torching of crop residue without the farmers consent to malign Diwali, farmers and the national capital government. Addressing a press conference at his official residence, Mishra stated that according to satellite data, approximately 100 to 125 stubble-burning incidents were recorded in Punjab on November 5, 6 and 7, whereas the number suddenly increased to nearly 1,200 on the evening of November 8 or Diwali. This is a conspiracy against farmers, a conspiracy against Diwali, a conspiracy against Delhi and a conspiracy against Punjab, he said. The Minister said that such a massive increase in burning incidents within just a few days raises several serious questions. He expressed apprehension that fields were deliberately set on fire by miscreants to malign Diwali, farmers and Delhi. Mishra said, Arvind Kejriwal and his party colleagues are running a campaign against Diwali, firecrackers and Sanatan traditions. Stop insulting Sanatan and disrespecting Hindu festivals. Do not commit this sin against Diwali and Sanatan. God will never forgive you for this sin. He appealed to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to ensure that FIRs are immediately registered in all areas where incidents of fields being set on fire took place on the night of November 8, and that a detailed investigation is conducted. The Delhi Minister appreciated the efforts of farmers in Punjab and said that they were making every possible effort to avoid stubble burning. There may have been some instances of fire due to unavoidable circumstances, but the sudden appearance of such a large number of incidents on Diwali raises serious questions, said Mishra. Referring to pollution levels in various cities of Punjab, Mishra said that reports indicated an AQI of 1,238 in Malout, 1,307 in Abohar and 1,651 in Sangrur on the morning of November 9. He said that farmers and ordinary citizens in Punjab were also struggling to breathe. He questioned, Who will be held responsible for the AQI recorded in Sangrur today? Who will be responsible for the AQI in Bathinda? Who is setting the farmers fields on fire in Punjab, and why are these fires being deliberately started? Mishra alleged that even before Diwali, leaders of the Aam Aadmi Party had been creating an atmosphere against the festival, firecrackers and Sanatan traditions. He said that derogatory remarks against Diwali, disrespect towards Hindu festivals and campaigns against Sanatan traditions had been witnessed. He added that the timing of the sudden increase in stubble-burning incidents in Punjab, along with the campaign against Diwali, raises serious suspicions.
Punjab records 2,787 stubble-burning cases, imposes Rs 46.10 lakh in fines
Digital Desk | Patiala, Nov 6 (IANS) Punjab has recorded 2,787 incidents of stubble burning so far this season, with authorities imposing environmental compensation of Rs 46.10 lakh and registering 710 FIRs, according to the latest report released by the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB). The report, covering monitoring and enforcement action up to November 5, stated that field inspections were conducted at 2,194 locations out of the total reported incidents. Stubble burning was confirmed at 994 locations. According to the report, environmental compensation (EC) was imposed in 914 cases, amounting to a total of Rs 46.10 lakh. Of this amount, Rs 24.85 lakh has been recovered so far. Additionally, 710 FIRs have been registered under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) in connection with stubble-burning incidents. Red entries have also been made in revenue records in 829 cases. Among the districts, Tarn Taran recorded the highest number of stubble-burning incidents at 586. Field inspections were conducted at 553 locations, with burning confirmed at 294 places. Ferozepur followed with 361 incidents, while Sangrur reported 240, Amritsar 221 and Bathinda 216 cases. In Ferozepur, stubble burning was confirmed at 163 locations, while 49 locations in Sangrur were found to have witnessed such incidents. In Patiala district, 156 stubble-burning incidents were reported. Field inspections were done at 103 locations, with agricultural residue burning confirmed at 59 places. Environmental compensation was imposed in 42 cases, amounting to Rs 2.15 lakh, of which Rs 70,000 has been recovered. The district also recorded 27 FIRs in connection with stubble burning, while red entries were made in revenue records in 16 cases. Authorities issued 25 warning notices in the district. The PPCB report stated that the total area under paddy cultivation in Punjab stood at 32.87096 lakh hectares. By November 5, harvesting had been completed across 87.60 per cent of the cultivated area. Across the state, 786 warning or show-cause notices have been issued. The report also mentioned that prosecution proceedings have been initiated against the concerned officials in 18 cases. The figures indicate that despite enforcement measures, including field inspections, environmental penalties, FIRs and red entries in revenue records, stubble-burning incidents continue to be reported across several districts of Punjab.
Punjab reports 2,196 stubble burning incidents; 494 FIRs registered
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Nov 4 (IANS) A total of 2,196 incidents of stubble burning have been recorded in Punjab, and FIRs have been registered in 494 cases, officials said on Wednesday. This comes as the air pollution in North India continues to worsen as winter approaches. According to a report by the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) covering the period up to Tuesday (November 3), a total of 2,196 incidents of stubble burning have been recorded in the state so far. In connection with these incidents, Environmental Compensation (EC) has been imposed in 636 cases. The department has levied a total fine of Rs 32.05 lakh, of which Rs 20.60 lakh has already been recovered, the officials said. According to the report, the highest number of stubble-burning incidents in the state has been reported in Tarn Taran district, with 545 cases. This is followed by Ferozepur with 305 cases, Amritsar with 198, Sangrur with 154, and Bathinda with 148. Additionally, 52 incidents have been recorded in Fazilka, 66 in Faridkot, and 108 in Gurdaspur, the report mentioned. Meanwhile, in Patiala district, the PPCB report recorded 93 incidents of stubble burning. The department inspected 39 fields and confirmed stubble burning at 10 locations. Environmental Compensation has been imposed in 7 cases within the district. A total fine of Rs 40,000 was levied, of which Rs 20,000 has been recovered, officials said. Furthermore, according to the authorities, in Patiala, FIRs have been registered in nine cases related to stubble burning, and 'red entries' have been made in the revenue records for 10 fields. Additionally, warning notices have been issued to 10 farmers. Officials further mentioned that environmental compensation has been imposed in 636 cases. According to the report, 1,487 fields in the state have been inspected so far, with stubble burning confirmed at 701 locations. Additionally, 81 fields were identified where authorities discovered evidence of burning. FIRs have been registered in 494 cases, and 'red entries' have been made in the revenue records of 527 fields. Furthermore, prosecution proceedings have been initiated by the authorities in 16 cases. The report also reveals that no charge sheets have been filed, nor have any suspension orders been issued against any nodal or supervisory officers to date. However, 609 warning notices have been issued regarding negligence. Thus, government data indicates that despite actions taken against stubble-burning incidents, such fires continue to occur across the state. In this context, raising awareness among farmers, alongside vigilant monitoring and enforcement by the administration, remains crucial, officials said.
AAP flays BJP for blaming Punjab's farmers for Delhi's pollution
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Nov 3 (IANS) Punjab Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Baltej Pannu on Tuesday targeted the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for blaming Punjab's farmers for Delhi's pollution while conveniently ignoring the substantial efforts made by the Bhagwant Mann-led government and farmers to manage paddy stubble. Taking a direct aim at the Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Media In-charge Pannu said that BJP leaders are making Punjab's farmers scapegoats instead of addressing the multiple sources of pollution in the national capital. Pointing out that Parliament's data recorded an 80 per cent decline in stubble-burning incidents in Punjab last year and that the state government has deployed more than 21,000 Crop Residue Management (CRM) machines, the AAP leader challenged the Delhi Minister and other BJP leaders to visit Punjab and witness the ground reality instead of spreading propaganda. He also reminded the Centre that it had refused to share the financial burden of stubble management despite the state government's offer, asserting that BJP leaders must answer for Delhi's pollution instead of shifting the blame onto Punjab's farmers. Even before the paddy harvesting season had properly begun, certain leaders had started running a campaign to defame Punjab for Delhi's pollution. How can smoke from Punjab supposedly cross Haryana and reach Delhi through some imaginary pipeline so quickly? BJP leaders are conveniently ignoring the multiple sources of pollution in the national capital. Several reports and even discussions in Parliament have established that stubble burning is not the only cause of Delhi's pollution, he said. Citing the Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav's statement in Parliament, Pannu added, Stubble-burning incidents in Punjab declined by 80 per cent last year due to improved management and sustained efforts. The Bhagwant Mann government has further strengthened these efforts this year, with more than 21,000 Crop Residue Management (CRM) machines purchased for stubble management. These include 14,274 Super Seeders, which have emerged as the most popular machines among farmers, along with Mulchers, MB Ploughs and Baling Machines. Punjab ranks among the leading states in the country in the use of agricultural machinery. He said that farmers are increasingly taking advantage of government subsidies ranging from 50 to 80 per cent to purchase these machines. Many farmers and private operators are also renting out machinery, making it accessible to more cultivators. Across major highways connecting Zirakpur to Bathinda, Chandigarh to Ludhiana, Mohali to Sirhind and on the Amritsar highway, large quantities of paddy stubble can be seen collected and compressed into bales. These bales are being transported to industries and used as raw material rather than being burnt in fields, Pannu said. He also asked that why is Haryana, despite having fewer stubble-management machines than Punjab, not being subjected to the same scrutiny? Travelling from Punjab to Delhi takes at least four to five hours by road. The simplistic claim that smoke from Punjab directly reaches Delhi is an attempt to mislead people rather than an evidence-based explanation, he added.
AIIMS Bathinda Recruitment 2026
All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bathinda (AIIMS Bathinda) has released Notification No. AIIMS/BTI/DEAN-RES/2026/223 for 2 vacancies, including Assistant Research Officer and Lab Technician posts, to be filled through a Walk-in Interview. Further details are available at aiimsbathinda.edu.in.
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 3 (IANS) Delhi Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on former Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal over rising air pollution in Punjab, alleging that he had ruined the state in five years, just as he had left Delhi struggling with pollution during his 10-year rule. Addressing a press conference, Sirsa claimed that Punjab has set a new record in air pollution, with Bathinda's Air Quality Index (AQI) reportedly crossing 1,100, making it one of the most polluted cities in the country. Arvind Kejriwal has set a new record in Punjab after Delhi. Just as he left Delhi struggling with pollution for 10 years, he has now created another record in Punjab. Bathinda's AQI has reached 1,100, earning it the distinction of being the most polluted city in India. I am not saying this; today's news reports are reporting it, Sirsa said. Citing pollution figures from different parts of Punjab, he said, Not just Bathinda, Barnala has an AQI of 1,244, Talwandi Sabo 1,036, Malaudh 960, Abohar 885, Gurdaspur 528, Jalandhar 690 and Ludhiana 560. They have created all these records. The way Kejriwal ruined Delhi in 10 years through pollution, they have now ruined Punjab in five years. They have set a new benchmark by making Punjab one of the most polluted states in India, he alleged. Sirsa further questioned the AAP leadership, saying that Bathinda had now emerged as one of the most polluted cities in the country. What is left now? Kejriwal has destroyed Punjab, where the AQI has crossed 1,100. Due to the western disturbance, it is natural that air pollution will also affect Delhi. The poor air quality in the national capital is a result of pollution coming from Punjab. I congratulate Kejriwal for setting this record, he said sarcastically. The way he ruined Delhi, they have now ruined Punjab, Sirsa added. Taking a further swipe at the AAP government, he alleged that drug abuse, too, had become a major problem in Punjab. In Delhi, intoxication was available for free, and now the same is happening in Punjab. He has ruined Punjab with drugs and now with air pollution, he alleged.
BJP-Akali Dal Reunion On The Cards? Formal Announcement Likely Soon
Political speculation is intensifying in Punjab amid reports that the BJP and Shiromani Akali Dal are close to reviving their alliance ahead of the Assembly election. Sources indicate that a formal announcement could be made during a proposed Prime Minister Narendra Modi rally in Bathinda after Diwali, with the Akali Dal expected to remain the senior partner. The discussions come as parties sharpen their campaign strategies, with Rahul Gandhi preparing to kick off Congress's Punjab outreach from Sangrur and all major players gearing up for a high-stakes electoral contest.
Senior Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader and Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal on Saturday requested Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to initiate breach of privilege and contempt of the House proceedings against Mansa SSP Vaibhav Chaudhary for obstructing her from discharging her duties as an MP and trivialising her grave concerns over the forcible abduction of the body of a drug victim. According to the release from Shiromani Akali Dal, the Bathinda MP, who wrote to the Speaker on Saturday to formally submit a notice under Rule 223 and seek his consent to raise a question of breach of privilege and contempt of the House, also called for summoning a report from the Punjab government vis-
Punjab records 1,007 stubble-burning cases; Tarn Taran tops list with 397 incidents
Digital Desk | Patiala, Oct 30 (IANS) Punjab has recorded 1,007 stubble-burning incidents during the ongoing paddy harvesting season, with Tarn Taran district accounting for the highest number of cases, followed by Amritsar and Ferozepur, according to the district-wise report of the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB). Tarn Taran reported 397 cases, accounting for nearly 39 per cent of the total incidents recorded across the state. Amritsar stood second with 171 cases, while Ferozepur ranked third with 104 incidents. The three districts together accounted for 672 cases, indicating a concentration of stubble-burning incidents in these areas. According to the PPCB report, Gurdaspur recorded 72 cases, followed by Kapurthala with 63, Bathinda with 31, Fazilka with 28, Jalandhar with 22 and Faridkot with 21 incidents. Patiala and Hoshiarpur recorded 16 and 12 cases, respectively. Sangrur also reported 12 incidents, while Fatehgarh Sahib recorded 11. Muktsar reported nine cases, followed by Moga, Barnala and SAS Nagar with seven each. Ludhiana recorded six incidents, Malerkotla five, SBS Nagar three, Rupnagar two and Pathankot one. No stubble-burning incident was recorded in Mansa in the report. The report further stated that of the 1,007 incidents reported across Punjab, officials had inspected 778 locations. Stubble burning was confirmed at 379 locations following the inspections. Additionally, 26 fields were found to have traces of stubble burning by PPF and nodal officers. As part of enforcement measures, environmental compensation was imposed in 349 cases. The total penalty imposed stood at Rs 17.50 lakh, of which Rs 13.15 lakh had been recovered, the report stated. A total of 246 FIRs have also been registered in connection with stubble-burning incidents, while red entries have been made in the revenue records of 297 fields. The authorities have issued 426 warnings and show-cause notices to nodal and supervisory officers in connection with the incidents. However, the report recorded zero figures for prosecution action under Section 14 of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) Act, filing of chargesheets and suspension of officials. In Patiala district, 16 stubble-burning cases have been reported so far. Officials inspected 14 locations and confirmed burning at seven of them. Environmental compensation was imposed in six cases in the district, amounting to Rs 35,000, of which Rs 20,000 has been recovered. The report provides cumulative figures for the ongoing season up to October 29 and does not contain a separate district-wise breakdown of fresh incidents reported during the preceding 24 hours. Therefore, the district recording the highest number of new cases during that period cannot be established from these figures. With the paddy harvesting season underway, the state authorities are continuing inspections and enforcement measures to curb stubble burning, which contributes to air pollution during the post-monsoon period.
Ambuja Cements' Q2 revenue at Rs 9,197 crore; commissions 4.6 MTPA capacity
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 29 (IANS) Ambuja Cements Limited, part of the diversified Adani Group, on Thursday reported revenue from operations of Rs 9,197 crore for the quarter ended September 30, 2026, with operating EBITDA of Rs 1,271 crore and an EBITDA margin of 13.8 per cent. The cement maker recorded sales volume of 16.5 million tonnes during the quarter, supported by continued growth in its trade business, according to its stock exchange filing. Trade volumes rose 8.6 per cent year-on-year, while the share of trade sales increased by six percentage points to 74 per cent. Premium products accounted for 37 per cent of trade sales, up two percentage points from a year earlier. The company's EBITDA per tonne stood at Rs 770 during the quarter, as per its regulatory filing. Ambuja Cements said it commissioned 4.6 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of new capacity during the quarter, including projects at Dahej, Salai Banwa and Kalamboli. Another 3.2 MTPA of capacity at Bathinda and Jodhpur Penna is being stabilised and ramped up, while a further 2.4 MTPA capacity at Warisaliganj is expected to be commissioned in the second half of FY27. Commenting on the performance, Vinod Bahety, Whole-time Director and CEO of Ambuja Cements, said the company's results reflected a focus on quality-led growth despite seasonal challenges and external pressures. Our Q2 and H1 FY27 performance underscores Ambujas focus on quality growth despite seasonal and external headwinds. Strengthening trade and premium product mix improved revenue quality, while disciplined execution and cost management supported profitability, Bahety noted. According to the company, total cost during the quarter stood at Rs 4,410 per tonne. Excluding the impact of geopolitical disruptions, total cost was Rs 4,182 per tonne. Higher petcoke and coal prices, elevated diesel costs and increased packaging expenses continued to exert pressure on industry margins. The company said logistics costs rose moderately on a year-on-year basis, though part of the impact was offset by a reduction in primary lead distance to 254 km from 265 km. On the financial front, Ambuja maintained a debt-free balance sheet with a net worth of Rs 72,238 crore and cash and cash equivalents of Rs 1,070 crore. The company also holds the highest AAA/A1+ credit ratings from agencies including CRISIL, CARE Ratings, India Ratings and ICRA.
Organise thikri pehra to curb drug trafficking in Punjab: Harsimrat Badal
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 28 (IANS) Calling on womenfolk to turn their villages and neighbourhoods into the first line of defence against Punjabs drug menace, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader and Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal on Wednesday urged the partys womens wing, Maavan Dheeyan Di Fauj, to organise traditional thikri pehra (community night patrols) in every village and mohalla to curb drug trafficking. Addressing a gathering of women at a Maavan Dheeyan Di rally in Kharar town, near here, she said the fight against drugs was deeply personal for the women of Punjab, who had borne the brunt of the crisis as families struggled with its devastating consequences. For the women of Punjab, ending the scourge of drugs is their number one priority, she said, adding that SAD had launched a women-led campaign against drugs because women had suffered the most from the menace. Urging the gathering to stand united against drug traffickers, she called on women to identify those allegedly involved in selling drugs and those suspected of protecting them. She said community vigilance and collective action could help expose the drug trade and hold those responsible accountable. The SAD leader said the party, if voted to power in 2027, would establish a special task force headed by a woman Director General of Police to take on the drug mafia. She also promised stricter laws, including a proposed 10-year denial of bail to drug traffickers and confiscation of their properties, with the proceeds intended to compensate victims. Harsimrat Badal also raised concerns over what she described as the growing intimidation of people speaking out against drugs. Referring to the reported removal of Daljit Singhs body by police while his mortal remains were being taken to a protest site, she alleged that his family members were assaulted when they tried to stop the police. She linked the incident to the ongoing struggle for justice by the family of Parvinder Singh Jhota, an anti-drug campaigner, accusing the Aam Aadmi Party government of failing to curb trafficking and protect complainants and whistleblowers. She also referred to the reported detention of a CISF constable who had raised allegations of drug use at Government Rajindra Hospital in Patiala, saying such incidents could discourage people from speaking out against the drug trade. Harsimrat Badal criticised Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for allegedly refusing to meet Jhotas family, claiming that the government had failed to demonstrate the urgency the situation demanded. She further cited the cases of Mohanjit Singh, who she alleged was tortured after protesting against the drug trade, and Gulzar Singh of Dirba, who she said died by suicide after being harassed for questioning the alleged sale of chitta, a colloquial term for heroin.
Data on childhood cancer survival rate set to improve further in 5 years: AIIMS Delhi expert
Digital Desk | Mohali, Oct 24 (IANS) The quality and quantity of information related to childhood cancer survival rate in the country is likely to get better over the next five years due to the big strides taken during the past decade, said Sameer Bakhshi, Professor and Head of Department of Medical Oncology at AIIMS, New Delhi, on Saturday. Addressing the10th Pediatric Haematology Oncology Support Services Conference (PHOSSCON 2026) here, Bakhshi said, Of the information we have today, three-fourths has come in the last 10 years. On a graph, if the information for the last three decades is treated as almost a flat line, it could shoot up sharply in the next five years. Bakhshi shared his experience on challenges related to inadequate data on survival rates in light of his AIIMS teams landmark research that consolidated three decades of Indian childhood cancer survival evidence across 182 studies involving 22,886 children, said a statement. Poonam Bagai, organising chair of all10th PHOSSCON editions and who is a co-author of the AIIMS New Delhi-led study, emphasised the importance of the findings in establishing the evidence needed to track progress towards UNGA 80 resolution for 60 per cent-plus survival for children with cancer by 2030. She said the study shares insights that promise to help policymakers identify gaps and strengthen accountability in India's fight against childhood cancer. Aligning with the Punjab governments objectives, the two-day conference, which began on Saturday at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali, SAS Nagar, is offering a platform for discussions on childhood cancer survival and the evidence needed to improve outcomes. Punjab offered an important example during the discussion. Building on CanKids partnership with the state government since 2017, an Integrated Childhood Cancer Care Framework is being developed with HBCH Mullanpur, AIIMS Bathinda and CMC Ludhiana as key hubs. The session on Towards 60 per cent-plus survival: From Evidence to Action was led by Bagai, Member, ICMR Central Ethics Committee on Human Research, Cankids founder and Childhood Cancer International's WHO South East Asia Region Representative. Bagai led the discussions on the ambition of reaching a childhood cancer survival rate of 60 per cent or more by 2030, highlighting the importance of research, reliable data and collaboration. Reflecting on the journey begun in 2015, Bagai said: Over 10 PHOSSCONs, research, advocacy and healthcare systems have changed. Today, we are asking a bigger question not just how to help children through treatment, but how to help more children survive. Other sessions at the conference focused on access to treatment and financial protection for families; stronger collaboration between society and the medical community; support systems from diagnosis and treatment to survivorship and long-term care and research; and shared learning and future roadmaps for pediatric haematology-oncology support services, the statement said.
MRSPTU Registrar Recruitment 2026
Maharaja Ranjit Singh Punjab Technical University, Bathinda (MRSPTU) has released Notification No. MRSPTU/ESTB./2026/DPR/596 for the post of Registrar. Eligible candidates can submit their offline applications till 10 November 2026.
Hockey: Trophy tour begins in Mohali ahead of Asian Champions Trophy Punjab
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 19 (IANS) The build-up to the Asian Champions Trophy Punjab 2026 gathered momentum with the launch of a nine-day trophy tour in Mohali on Sunday, bringing the upcoming mens hockey tournament closer to fans across the state ahead of the continental competition from October 27 to November 5. The tour was flagged off at the Olympian Balbir Singh Senior International Hockey Stadium in Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar (Mohali) on October 18 and will travel through several cities and towns, including Patiala, Amritsar, Bathinda, Ludhiana and Kapurthala, before reaching Jalandhar on October 26. The initiative aims to build excitement for the ninth edition of the tournament while celebrating Punjabs longstanding contribution to Indian hockey. The trophys journey will give local communities, aspiring players and supporters an opportunity to engage with the competition ahead of the arrival of Asias leading hockey teams. Punjab has been a traditional stronghold of Indian hockey, producing generations of players who have represented the country at major international events. The tour seeks to connect this legacy with the upcoming championship, which will bring international hockey back to the state. Jalandhar will host the league-stage matches at the Olympian Surjit Singh Hockey Stadium from October 27 to November 2. The competition will then move to Mohali, where the Olympian Balbir Singh Senior International Hockey Stadium will stage the semifinals and medal matches on November 4 and 5. Established in 2011, the Asian Champions Trophy has developed into a prominent fixture on the continental hockey calendar, bringing together some of Asias strongest national teams. India, the tournaments most successful side with five titles, will aim to add to its record while competing on home soil. Malaysia, Japan, South Korea, China and Bangladesh will join the hosts in the six-team competition.
Sachin Pilot to tour Punjab, to meet gangster-hit families
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 15 (IANS) AICC General Secretary and in-charge of Punjab, Sachin Pilot, will undertake a five-day visit across the state from October 16 to meet families who have lost loved ones to gangster violence and the breakdown of law and order in the state, the party said on Thursday. He said his visit would cover multiple districts, comprising Moga, Bathinda, Mansa, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Kapurthala, Hoshiarpur, Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Tarn Taran and Amritsar. In each district, Pilot will visit homes of bereaved families, offer condolences, and listen to their accounts of the crimes and of the response they have received from the police and the state government. Many of these killings have been claimed by or linked to organised gangs. Several families have waited months, and some years, for arrests, chargesheets or a fair trial. The purpose of the visit is to give these families a voice. The Congress will carry their demand for justice to the public, to the state government and, where needed, to the courts. Pilot will highlight the steady deterioration of law and order in Punjab, which has unequivocally eroded any moral right of the current AAP government to remain in office. Newly appointed Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) President Pargat Singh on October 11 assumed office in Chandigarh, pledging to fight for the rights, dignity and better future of the people of the state. Speaking on the occasion, the state Congress chief said the real strength of the state lay in its ordinary citizens: farmers who feed the country, young people struggling to secure their future, traders and business owners who contribute to the state's economy, and families aspiring to a safe, dignified and better life. He added that the Congress had a responsibility not merely to contest elections but also to become the voice of the people and stand firmly for their rights. The people of Punjab are waiting for their rights, justice and a secure future. It is our responsibility to meet the expectations of every section, from farmers to young people. The Congress is united, and our struggle is against a system that has failed to secure people's rightful entitlements, he had added.
Akali Dal's Big Focus On Women In Punjab, Through Drugs, Financial Help
Akali MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal has addressed a large gathering of women in Bathinda, using the platform to target the Bhagwant Mann government over its unfulfilled promises to women and alleged failure to curb drug trafficking.
Eleven Acquitted in Punjabi Mother Tongue Protest Case
A Bathinda court has acquitted 11 people, including Lakha Sidhana, Baba Hardeep Singh Mehraj and Rajwinder Singh Raikhana, in the 2018 Punjabi mother tongue protest case. The post Eleven Acquitted in Punjabi Mother Tongue Protest Case appeared first on Sikh Siyasat News .
Delhi CM slams Arvind Kejriwal for hollow promise to check stubble burning in Punjab
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 6 (IANS) Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Tuesday hit out at Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal for betraying Punjab farmers and not offering any solution to stubble burning that adds to air pollution in north India during winter. Taking to his official X account, the Delhi Chief Minister shared a video of stubble burning in Punjab's Tarn Taran and reminded Kejriwal of his promise to resolved the problem that adds to air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR). She accused Kejriwal, a former Delhi Chief Minister himself, of lack of intent and willpower to find a collective solution with Punjab farmers, despite the Centre providing resources for the purpose. In her message on X, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said, Kejriwal ji had said, give me one year, and I'll stop the burning of stubble in Punjab. Years passed by. Farmers kept waiting for help, and the 'AAP'da government, instead of freeing them from the compulsion to burn stubble, just left them to fend for themselves. Stubble burning has started again in Tarn Taran. The Central government provided funds, gave machines, offered subsidies, yet Bhagwant Mann ji and Kejriwal ji's 'AAP'da government couldn't even manage arrangements on the ground, she added. Resources were fully provided, but intent, willpower, and accountability all three have failed. The people of Delhi have rejected Kejriwal ji. Is he now venting the frustration of that crushing defeat on the people of Delhi? CM Gupta asked. Highlighting that efforts are being made in the NCR to curb air pollution, the Delhi CM said, We are working day and night to roll out new solutions on the ground to clean up Delhi's air. Meanwhile, in Punjab, the fire from stubble burning has exposed the 'AAP'da government's true colours. No preparation, no solutions. Just false promises and betrayal of the farmers. Earlier, the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) has deployed of flying squads in 18 districts across Punjab to monitor stubble burning, a statement said. The deployment, from October 1 to November 30, has been structured in successive phases, with flying squads assigned to respective districts for different deployment periods to ensure sustained field-level monitoring throughout the paddy harvesting season 2026, it added. The deployment of flying squads in Punjab covers key paddy-producing districts, including Sangrur, Tarn Taran, Firozpur, Muktsar, Bathinda, Amritsar, Moga, Mansa, Fazilka, Patiala, Ludhiana, Kapurthala, Faridkot, Barnala, Malerkotla, Gurdaspur, Jalandhar and Fatehgarh Sahib, it said. The teams will coordinate with farmers, Parali Protection Force, district-level authorities, state government nodal officers, officers of the respective State Pollution Control Boards, the CAQM Cell at SAS Nagar and the Commission, the statement said.
AAP MLA cries foul over teacher shortage in Punjab; is suspended by party
Sukhveer Singh Maiserkhana, the partys MLA from Bathindas Maur constituency, was suspended after alleging a shortage of teachers in government schools in his constituency
A video from Punjab's Bathinda showing a young woman in an allegedly intoxicated condition has gone viral on social media, prompting political reactions and reigniting concerns over the zombie drug abuse in the state, which is already plagued by the menace.
Analysis: Harsimrat Kaur's Big Political Moment Test Of Badal Family Legacy
Harsimrat has launched a women-focused Maawan-Dhiyan campaign at Rampura Phul and Nathana in Bathinda, addressing gatherings, leading protest marches and submitting memorandums addressed to the Punjab Governor.
'Punjab Will Be Drug-Free in 6 Months': Shivraj Singh Chouhan Launches Yatra Phase 4 in Bathinda
Punjab BJP to launch four anti-drug marches across state today
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Sep 18 (IANS) To bring the issue of drug abuse into sharper focus in Punjab ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections, with the ruling Aam Aadmi Party and Opposition parties trading accusations over the government's handling of the issue, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will launch four statewide marches against drug abuse in the state from Friday. The marches will cover all 117 Assembly constituencies before culminating in a rally later this month, which will be addressed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The Nasha Mukt Punjab Yatras will begin from four locations between September 18 and 21 and collectively cover about 4,000 km, according to the Punjab BJP. BJP national President Nitin Nabin will flag off the first march from Ekta Sthal at Madhopur in Pathankot district on Friday. The march will pass through constituencies in Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Ferozepur, Kapurthala and Jalandhar before reaching its destination. The second yatra will begin on September 19 from Fatehgarh Sahib and will be flagged off by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta after she pays obeisance at Gurdwara Sri Jyoti Saroop Sahib, Punjab BJP general secretary and yatra in-charge Rajesh Bagha said. It will travel through parts of Ludhiana, Fatehgarh Sahib, Mohali, Ropar, Hoshiarpur, Nawanshahr and Phagwara before concluding in Jalandhar. The third yatra will start on September 20 from the Sadiki border in Fazilka, near the Asafwala 1971 War Memorial, with Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal scheduled to flag it off. It will cover constituencies in Fazilka, Muktsar, Bathinda, Faridkot, Moga, Ludhiana and Malerkotla. The fourth march will begin on September 21 from Gurdwara Sri Damdama Sahib in Talwandi Sabo. Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini will flag it off. That route will cover Bathinda, Mansa, Barnala, Sangrur and Patiala districts before heading towards Jalandhar. All four yatras are scheduled to converge in Jalandhar on September 30, when the BJP will hold a public rally addressed by HM Shah. The BJP has described the campaign as an effort to build public awareness against drug abuse. Party leaders have also raised concerns about law and order and corruption in Punjab as part of their wider political messaging.
Inter-state gang targeting Char Dham pilgrims busted, key accused arrested
Digital Desk | Chamoli, Sep 12 (IANS) The Chamoli Police in Uttarakhand have invoked the Gangsters Act against an organised inter-state gang allegedly involved in pickpocketing and cheating pilgrims during the ongoing Char Dham Yatra, with the gang leader arrested from Devprayag. The accused, identified as 26-year-old Sunil Kumar, a native of Bharatpur in Rajasthan and currently residing in Punjab's Bathinda was arrested on September 11 following sustained technical surveillance and ground-level intelligence gathering. According to the police, the gang took advantage of the heavy rush of devotees during the Char Dham Yatra and systematically targeted pilgrims. The investigation revealed that the accused were not part of an ordinary or loosely connected group but were operating as an organised inter-state criminal gang. A case was registered at Kotwali Shri Badrinath on April 27, 2026, under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). As the investigation progressed, police established links between the accused and a wider organised network involved in targeting pilgrims. Police had earlier arrested four members of the gang. They were identified as Krishna Kumar, 28, a resident of Punjab's Bathinda; Diya, 25, a resident of Mor Mandi in Bathinda; Sunil Kumar, 26, a native of Rajasthan's Bharatpur and currently residing in Bathinda; and Lalit Kumar, 31, a resident of Rajasthan's Alwar. During interrogation, police uncovered details of the gang's activities and found that its members had allegedly targeted pilgrims not only in the Badrinath Dham area but also in Kedarnath Dham. A separate case in connection with similar incidents has also been registered at Sonprayag police station. According to the police, the findings in both cases established the organised and inter-state nature of the gang's criminal activities. Chamoli Police subsequently prepared a detailed gang chart and obtained approval from the District Magistrate before initiating action under the Gangsters Act against the gang and its members. Police teams maintained continuous surveillance on the suspects and combined technical inputs with information collected on the ground. The coordinated investigation eventually helped them trace the gang leader. Based on technical surveillance, Sunil Kumar was arrested from Devprayag on September 11. Police said the action is an important step towards ensuring the safety of pilgrims during the Char Dham Yatra and curbing organised criminal activities targeting devotees.
Fazilka Falcons beat Bathinda Royals but miss Sher-E-Punjab T20 semis
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Sher-E-Punjab T20: Naman Dhirs 95 powers Amritsar Soormas to third straight win
Digital Desk | Mohali, Sep 10 (IANS) Amritsar Soormas continued their impressive late-season surge in the Sher-E-Punjab T20 League with a thrilling nine-run win over Jalandhar Warriors, securing their third consecutive victory and strengthening their playoff push. Batting first, the Soormas posted 178/9, powered by another sensational knock from Naman Dhir, who followed his match-winning 173 in the previous game with a blazing 95 off 48 balls, including six fours and eight sixes. Dhir struck at 197.92, once again putting the opposition under pressure and giving Amritsar a strong platform. Jalandhar mounted a spirited response, led by Randeep Singh (32 off 22), with Prabhsimran Singh (28) and Aryan Yadav (26) also contributing. However, Amritsar kept striking at crucial moments to restrict the Warriors to 169/8. Jaipartap Singh Johal, Akash Pandey and Shubham Rana picked up two wickets apiece, while Dhir also chipped in with 1/15. The win takes Amritsar Soormas to second place with eight points from seven matches, ahead of Jalandhar on net run rate. Having won their last three games, the Soormas are now firmly in contention for a top-four finish, with just one league-stage game remaining. Amritsar will close out their league campaign against Ludhiana Lions on Friday (September 11) at 7 PM at the I.S. Bindra Stadium, Mohali. With the playoff race finely poised, the Soormas will look to carry their winning momentum into the final game and strengthen their case for a top-four finish. Skipper Ramandeep Singh led from the front with a blistering, unbeaten 71 off 36 balls as Mohali Kings stormed into the semifinals of the Sher-E-Punjab T20 League with a five-wicket win over Bathinda Royals at the I.S. Bindra Stadium on Wednesday. Chasing a competitive target of 185, Mohali Kings got off to a disastrous start, losing two wickets with just four runs on the board. But skipper Ramandeep and Anmolpreet Singh (49 off 28 balls) revived the chase with a crucial 52-run stand for the third wicket before Ramandeep took control to take his side over the line.
Sher-e-Punjab T20: 'Focus only on the next game,' says Arshdeep ahead of crucial clash
Digital Desk | Mohali, Sep 10 (IANS) Ludhiana Lions captain Arshdeep Singh said the team would not be distracted by the points table and would instead focus on executing its plans as they look to secure their place in the top four when they take on Amritsar Soormas in their final league match of the Sher-e-Punjab T20 League at the IS Bindra Stadium on Friday. Ludhiana are currently third on the points table, with most teams still in contention for the remaining three playoff spots. Mohali Kings are the only side to have already secured their place in the last four. We go into our final league match with the same mindset, focusing only on the game in front of us and not getting distracted by the points table, Arshdeep said ahead of the clash. Ludhiana enter the match with renewed confidence after ending a three-match losing streak with a six-wicket win over Shubman Gills Fazilka Falcons in their previous outing. Salil Arora starred with 78 off 38 balls, while Bikramjeet Singh and Arjun Rajput contributed 58 and 35, respectively, to help Ludhiana chase down the target comfortably. Were at the business end of the tournament. I believe we have played much better cricket than our current points suggest. With one league match remaining, the plan is simple: go out, execute our plans and do everything within our ability to fight for a place in the playoffs, said Arshdeep. It is still within our reach. Im confident that if we tighten up the small things that have gone against us in the last few matches, we can find ourselves in the final four. Arshdeep also praised the contribution of both senior players and youngsters in the Ludhiana squad. Every member of the squad, whether an experienced senior or a young talent who may not have as many games under his belt, has taken his role and responsibility extremely seriously. The boys have consistently put their hands up for whatever the team needs and have played crucial roles for Ludhiana Lions, he said. Among the emerging players, Arjun Rajput, Kartik Chadha, Sahil Bhaskar and Madhav Singh Pathania have made important contributions. Rajput scored 82 runs off 45 balls and claimed four wickets for 27 runs in the same match against Bathinda Royals, while Chadha has been among the leading wicket-takers in the tournament. He is currently second on the wicket-taking charts behind his Ludhiana teammate Sahil Bhaskar. Arjun Rajput is an obvious name. Hes slowly been making his presence felt and has also earned his U19 call-up. I genuinely believe he has a very bright future ahead, Arshdeep said. Kartik Chadha is another player who really stands out to me. He has shades of multiple Indian superstars in his game, and Im confident that whenever he gets the opportunity, hell grab it with both hands. His bowling performances already speak for themselves. Ludhiana Lions will face Abhishek Sharmas Amritsar Soormas at 7 pm on Friday in what promises to be a crucial encounter in the race for the playoffs.
Punjab: 'Khedan Wattan Punjab Diyan' begins from Bathinda
Akali Dal activists seek bribery case registration against Punjab CM's wife
Chandigarh, Sep 5 (IANS) Activists of the Istri Akali Dal, the official women's wing of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), led by Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal on Saturday marched to the residence of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to demand his resignation as well as registration of a criminal case against his wife Gurpreet Kaur, who is facing allegations of demanding Rs 5 crore to suppress a rape case. However, Gurpreet Kaur has already rejected the allegations, saying the charges are baseless. Meanwhile, the police put up barricades to stop the Istri Akali Dal members led by Harsimrat Badal, MLA Ganieve Kaur and the Women Wing President Hargobind Kaur from marching towards the Chief Minister's residence following which they staged a sit-in on the road and courted arrest. The women continued to hold the protest even after the senior SAD leaders were detained. Speaking on the occasion, Harsimrat Badal said the Chief Minister's office had become a den of corruption where crores were being sought by the latter's wife to let off a predator against whom two women had filed rape and kidnapping charges. She added that recent audio and visual evidence had revealed how Gurpreet Kaur's brother-in-law had sealed a deal with a colleague of the accused rapist and media influencer Guri Chahal for Rs 5 crore. Everyone has seen how Gurpreet Mann's relative Amardeep Grewal negotiated with the predator's colleague while sitting in a restaurant with the Chief Minister's wife and even shared a picture of the latter to establish his credentials, she alleged. Harsimrat Badal said, We have also seen how following the sealing of the deal with the Chief Minister's wife, the accused was let off within two months and was also allowed to flee to the United States. Asserting that the Akali Dal would launch a mass movement across the state until Gurpreet Kaur was not arrested, she also demanded the arrest of all other accused in the case, besides the dismissal of the police officers who had filed cancellations reports to favour the rape accused and facilitate his release from jail. Harsimrat Badal also called for extending protection to the rape victims who had registered complaints against the media influencer, besides demanding a CBI probe into the entire incident. It has also come to light that five women had personally complained to the Chief Minister against the same 'predator' but the latter did not take any action in the matter. This should also be probed to ascertain why the CM's office was siding with rapists. Meanwhile, warning people that the fire could reach their houses also, Istri Akali Dal leader Hargobind Kaur and Ganieve Kaur Majithia appealed to the people of Punjab to unite and fight for the cause of the wronged women as well as putting an end to corruption in the Chief Minister's office and residence.
Punjab Launches Fourth Season of
The fourth season of Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan begins in Bathinda, featuring 38 sports and support for athletes from the Punjab government. Punjab Launches Fourth Season of Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan with Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann
Mohali Kings vs Bathinda Royals, Sher-E-Punjab T20 League 2026 Live Streaming
Mohali Kings face Bathinda Royals in the Sher-E-Punjab T20 League at PCA IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali, on August 31, with Bathinda Royals opting to field after winning the toss.
Protests Erupt in Bathinda Over Unmet Demands of Civil Hospital Staff
Bathinda, August 26: Employees at the Civil Hospital in Bathinda, Punjab, staged a protest today over their long-standing demands. Key issues include equal pay for equal work, salary increases, gratuity, and the regularization of temporary staff. The protesters also supported the closure of Aam Aadmi Clinics in Bathinda district, claiming these facilities lack adequate resources. ... Read more Protests Erupt in Bathinda Over Unmet Demands of Civil Hospital Staff
Amid Bathinda Road Row, Opposition Alleges Police Crackdown, AAP Hits Back
The controversy centres around the newly constructed Kot Bhaiyya-Ramgarh Bhundar road.
Opposition Attacks Bhagwant Mann Government Over Bathinda Road Row
The controversy centres around the newly constructed Kot Bhaiyya-Ramgarh Bhundar road.
Akali Dal and BJP May Reunite Ahead of Punjab Assembly Elections
Sunam, August 20: Discussions about a potential alliance between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) have gained momentum ahead of the Punjab Assembly elections. This speculation has been fueled by statements from SAD leader and Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal. During an event commemorating the death anniversary of former SAD ... Read more Akali Dal and BJP May Reunite Ahead of Punjab Assembly Elections
Punjab hosts the 4th Khedan Watan Punjab Dian with more than 10 lakh participants across 38 sports, including para events, and a free online registration system.
Demand for NIA Investigation into Attack on Sukhbir Singh Badal
New Delhi, August 16: There is a rising demand for a National Investigation Agency (NIA) probe into the life-threatening attack on Sukhbir Singh Badal, the President of the Shiromani Akali Dal and former Deputy Chief Minister of Punjab, which occurred on August 13. Former Union Minister and Member of Parliament from Bathinda, Harsimrat Kaur Badal, ... Read more Demand for NIA Investigation into Attack on Sukhbir Singh Badal
Baghel asks workers to beware of traitors within Punjab Congress
Addressing the gathering in Bathinda, he said the next elections will not be fought by the candidates alone, but by the entire partys rank and file, underlining the need for strengthening the organisation at the grassroots level
PM Modi to Dedicate Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway Today, Delhi-Katra Travel Time to Halve
The project will reduce travel distance and time between Ludhiana and Bathinda, while also improving connectivity to other major economic centres, a release added.
