While Punjab and Haryana have seen normal monsoon rainfall overall, distribution has been uneven across paddy-growing regions. Several key districts like Sangrur, Muktsar, and Bathinda in Punjab, and Ambala, Karnal, Kaithal, and Jind in Haryana, have recorded deficient rainfall. Conversely, some districts experienced excess rainfall, potentially impacting paddy crops differently across both states.
Punjabs Rs 12,700 crore NH projects stalled; Rs 828 crore PMGSY road works scrapped over delays
CHANDIGARH: Multiple key road infrastructure projects in Punjab including major national highway developments and those under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-III (PMGSY), are facing serious setbacks, with no clear timeline for completion. As many as sixteen national highway projects worth 12,700 crore, being implemented by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Punjab Public Works Department (PWD), have either been stalled, significantly delayed, or face termination. The primary reasons cited are land acquisition hurdles and delays in obtaining statutory clearances. Simultaneously, rural road development has also taken a hit. Projects under PMGSY-III worth 828.87 crore, involving the upgradation of 64 roads and construction of 38 bridges, have been scrapped due to the state governments failure to float tenders and commence construction on time. Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, in a written reply to Congress MP Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, confirmed that eight projects are being executed by NHAI and another eight by the state PWD, all of which have encountered delays or stoppages. Projects in the state of Punjab are mainly delayed, stalled, or terminated due to land acquisition issues and delay in obtaining statutory clearances. The government is taking requisite measures, in consultation with stakeholders including the state government, to resolve these issues, the Minister stated in Parliament. Key Affected Projects Under NHAI DelhiAmritsarKatra Expressway (Spur-II): 30.5 km stretch worth 2,197.17 crore terminated due to lack of land; fresh bids to be invited once land is acquired. DelhiAmritsarKatra Expressway (Spur-III): 28.07 km stretch worth 1,951.70 crore delayed, now scheduled for completion by 30 November 2026. AmritsarBathinda (Package-I): 39 km project worth 1,229.38 crore, originally set to finish by November 2024, now delayed until 31 December 2026. AmritsarGhomanTandaUna (Package-I): 45.73 km stretch worth 1,443.47 crore also delayed, with a new completion target of 30 June 2026. Package-II of this corridor (31.05 km, 818.41 crore) has been terminated due to land issues. The LudhianaRupnagar corridor has also been severely affected: Package-I (37.7 km, 1,368.91 crore): Work halted after the contractor issued a termination notice over delayed land handover; matter is under review by a Conciliation Committee. Package-II (47.24 km, 1,488.23 crore): Terminated for similar reasons; re-tendering will occur post land possession. Projects Delayed Under Punjab PWD JalandharHoshiarpur (NH-3, 39.13 km): Sanctioned for 1,069.59 crore, awarded in 2017, now facing termination due to persistent land acquisition delays. Widening of a 3.57 km stretch of same highway (15.04 crore): Facing right-of-way constraints; revised completion date: 30 November 2025. MakhuArifke (NH-703A, 24.6 km): Worth 192.48 crore, including two ROBs, now rescheduled to finish by 31 December 2025 (original deadline was May 2021). ROB at Fazilka (NH-07, 38.02 crore): Delayed due to pending railway clearances, now progressing with a target completion date of 31 October 2025. ArifkeFerozepurMuktsarMalout (NH-354, 63.27 km, 263.19 crore): Delayed due to NOCs from the Irrigation Department and land issues. Muktsar SahibMalout section (27.66 km, 152.58 crore): Toll plaza construction stalled; PWD advised to redesign within available land. PMGSY Projects Worth 828 Crore Scrapped Road and bridge projects sanctioned under PMGSY-III have been scrapped due to the Punjab governments inability to initiate work before the required deadline of 31 March. The Centre had sanctioned 64 rural roads (628.48 km) and 38 bridges (each over 15 metres in length) for a total of 828.87 crore. Some of these were located in sensitive border districts such as Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Pathankot, and Tarn Taran. In correspondence with the Union Ministry of Rural Development, Punjabs PWD stated that many of these roads were recommended for urgent repairs by Members of Parliament and were of utmost importance. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also wrote to Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan requesting reconsideration, stating that without these bridges, the completed roads would be of little use. However, the Centre responded that only projects tendered and already under construction by the original March 2025 deadline now extended to March 2026 would be allowed to continue. Works which have started on the ground but are not feasible to continue further shall be foreclosed, the Ministry clarified. Sources revealed that 59 of the roadworks were to be implemented using Full Depth Reclamation (FDR) technology, for which very few consultancy firms in India have adequate expertise another contributing factor to the delays. With Punjabs road infrastructure plans facing widespread disruption, the delays pose serious questions over administrative efficiency, land management, and inter-agency coordination at both the state and central levels.
Following Operation Sindoor, three Punjab districts received honors for their contributions after the Pahalgam massacre. Gp Capt Ranjit Singh Sidhu of Muktsar was awarded the Vir Chakra. Bathinda and Fazilka received commendations, with SP Amneet Kondal, DC Showkat Ahmad Parray, ACP Babandeep Singh, and DC Amarpreet Kaur Sandhu recognized.
COAS Dwivedi Visits Chetak Corps At Bathinda Military Station
Bathinda, Aug 14: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi on Thursday visited the Chetak Corps at the Bathinda Military Station and the iconic Nagi War Memorial at Sriganganagar, officials said. During his visit, Gen Dwivedi was briefed by the general officer commanding, Chetak Corps, on the operational readiness of the units and the formations deployed in the sector, the prevailing security situation, training activities, and operational logistics, an official release said. General Dwivedi then laid a wreath at [] The post COAS Dwivedi Visits Chetak Corps At Bathinda Military Station appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Bathinda sees 3rd drug-overdose death in 4 days
Student from Zimbawe attacked at Bathinda university, admitted to AIIMS with head injuries
28 years later, Bathinda villagers remember teen killed after gangrape
DGP Gaurav Yadav chaired law and order review meetings across multiple ranges, emphasizing counter-terror readiness and inter-district coordination ahead of Independence Day 2025. He directed officers to intensify the anti-drug campaign, focusing on financial investigations and dismantling drug trafficking networks. Instructions were given to maintain peace, intensify police presence, and implement preventive measures.
Bathinda to host all-india traders' conference
Max Hospital introduces CORI surgical robot for joint replacement surgeries
Excelsior Correspondent BATHINDA, Aug 8: Max Super Speciality Hospital today announced the launch of CORI surgical robot, a state-of-the-art robotics-assisted platform for joint replacement surgeries. With this launch, Max Hospital, Bathinda, has become a robotics-equipped facility offering advanced knee and hip replacement surgeries. Addressing a press conference, Dr Dilveer Brar, Director Orthopedics & Joint replacement at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Bathinda said, This new robotic navigation technology allows patients to benefit from the combination of human insight and the experience [] The post Max Hospital introduces CORI surgical robot for joint replacement surgeries appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Palpreet Singh Brar from Bathinda village joins elite group of Punjabi captains in sports
To stop teacher from joining protest, Bathinda cops enter classroom, stay for 6 hours
Punjab and Haryana HC dismisses Kanganas plea seeking quashing of defamation complaint
CHANDIGARH, Aug 1: The Punjab and Haryana High Court on Friday dismissed a plea of BJP MP Kangana Ranaut seeking quashing of a defamation complaint against her and the summoning order by a court in Bathinda. The actor-turned-politician had challenged the defamation case which stemmed from her retweet consisting of her own comment about the complainant during the 2020-21 farmer protests against the now repealed farm laws. The complaint was filed by Mahinder Kaur (73) of Bahadurgarh Jandian village in [] The post Punjab and Haryana HC dismisses Kanganas plea seeking quashing of defamation complaint appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Punjab & Haryana High Court dismisses Kangana Ranauts plea to quash defamation case against her
CHANDIGARH: The Punjab and Haryana High Court has dismissed a petition filed by actor-turned-politician and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut seeking to quash the summoning order on a defamation complaint filed against her by an elderly woman of Bathinda. Ranaut had sought quashing of the criminal complaint filed under Sections 499 and 500 of IPC, as well as the summoning order and all subsequent proceedings in the matter. After considering the matter, the High Court found no merit in the petition and dismissed it. The Bench of Justice Tribhuvan Dahiya did not accept the argument for quashing the complaint and the summoning order. There are specific allegations against the petitioner who is a celebrity, that false and defamatory imputations by her in the retweet have dented the respondents reputation and lowered her in her own estimation, as also in the eyes of others. Therefore, filing of the complaint to vindicate her rights cannot be termed mala fide, the high court has observed in its detailed order. The court further observed that the magistrate has duly applied mind to the material on record, and only after recording satisfaction that commission of offence under Sections 499 IPC is prima facie made out against the petitioner, the process has been issued. With this, she has to face the trial before the local court in Punjab. Kangana Ranaut says she never feared ageing: Politics is kinder to older women than movies On February 22, 2022, Bathinda judicial magistrate had issued summons asking Kangana to appear before the court. But she had approached the Punjab and Haryana high court contending that the trial court had misapplied Section 202 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. The defamation complaint against Kangana was filed by 73-year old Mahinder Kaur of Bahadurgarh Jandian village in Bathinda district. Kaur in her complaint before the Judicial Magistrate First Class, Bathinda had alleged that it had falsely compared her to another elderly woman associated with the Shaheen Bagh protests by farmers and featured in a magazine. She contended that the defamatory content not only hurt her pride and honour, but also lowered her reputation among fellow protestors. She asserted that she had no connection with the Shaheen Bagh protests or the woman featured in a magazine, and that the imputations were wholly false. She alleged that Kangana Ranaut had defamed her in a tweet by identifying her wrongly as Bilkis Bano of Shaheen Bagh fame and implying that such women could be hired for Rs 100 to participate in the protest. The tweet, which was later deleted, targeted Mahinder Kaur during her participation in the farmers' agitation at Delhi's borders.
Jailed gangster Jaggu Bhagwanpuria threatened to kill my son, alleges Punjab Congress MP Randhawa
CHANDIGARH: Senior Congress leader and Member of Parliament from Gurdaspur, Punjab, Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, has alleged that the jailed gangster Jagdeep Singh alias Jaggu Bhagwanpuria has threatened to kill his son, Udhayveer Singh Randhawa. Randhawa, the former Deputy Chief Minister of Punjab, who is currently in the national capital for the Monsoon Session of Parliament, said that a person named Parminder Singh from Fatehgarh Churian and a few other party supporters came to meet his son at 10 am on Thursday. An hour after a picture from the meeting was posted online, there was a firing at his son's turban shop. But thankfully, no one was injured. I have brought the matter to the notice of the Punjab DGP, he said. He alleged that even from inside prison, Bhagwanpuria was threatening people and that one of his associates had also received a threatening call. After the firing incident on Thursday evening, one person repeatedly wrote objectionable comments on my son's social media post, Randhawa added. He questioned the functioning of the states law enforcement agencies, asking, Where is their intelligence, where is their cyber crime unit? If a common individual posts a status with a gun in hand, they are arrested immediately. But those who are openly threatening otherswhat action is being taken against them? Threats didnt deter us even during the days of terrorism. We are not afraid. But my concern is: where does the law and order situation in the state stand today? Alleging that law and order has collapsed in Punjab, Randhawa pointed to a recent incident where a prominent businessman was shot dead in broad daylight outside his showroom. There have been several other serious crimes. What is the situation today? he asked. This latest incident comes just over a month after Bhagwanpurias mother, Harjit Kaur, and a relative, Karanvir Singh, were shot dead in Batala, Gurdaspur district, on June 26. The rival Davinder Bambiha gang claimed responsibility for the killings. Randhawa said that after the Batala incident, an MLA from the ruling AAP claimed the killing of Bhagwanpurias mother was a political murder. The police should have taken his statement and questioned how it was a political murder. What are the police doing? I have repeatedly brought to the notice of senior officers the issue of a police officers nexus with gangstersa matter that threatens national securitybut no action has been taken, he said. Earlier, Randhawa also posted on X, stating: Jailed gangster Jaggu Bhagwanpuria has threatened to kill my son. One of my associates met my son and within an hour of leaving, he was fired upon today. Bhagwant Mann and Arvind Kejriwal have turned Punjab into a gangster's paradise where law and order have totally collapsed. I am in Delhi for the Parliament session. No gangster can shake me! Randhawa has previously accused Bhagwanpuria of influencing voters in Dera Baba Nanak during elections, including the November 2023 assembly bypoll, where he alleged the gangsters family intimidated locals to support AAP candidates. Responding to the allegations, AAP spokesperson Neel Garg said Randhawa should provide full details so the matter can be investigated. He added, Everyone knows that gangsters got patronage under previous Congress governments. The AAP government has zero tolerance towards gangsterism. We do not spare anyone who tries to disturb law and order. Since coming to power, we have jailed several gangsters and even attached their properties. Jaggu Bhagwanpuria, a gangster with over 128 criminal casesincluding murder, extortion, arms smuggling, and drug traffickingis currently lodged in Silchar Central Jail, Assam, under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. He was shifted there from Bathinda Central Jail in March this year. He was already in the custody of Punjab Police in connection with the 2022 murder of singer Sidhu Moosewala and faces several other criminal charges. Reacting to Randhawa's claims, Leader of the Opposition in Punjab and senior Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa said, A jailed gangster openly threatening a senior INC leader, former Deputy CM, and sitting MPthis is not just a law and order failure, its a damning indictment of the complete collapse of governance under Bhagwant Mann and Arvind Kejriwal. If gangsters can intimidate elected representatives from behind bars, what chance does the common man in Punjab stand? Is this the badlav AAP promiseda state where criminals rule and citizens live in fear? Bajwa accused the AAP government of turning Punjab into a playground for gangsters, saying, While Kejriwal remains busy marketing false narratives, Punjab has become lawless under AAP. Punjab Congress president and Ludhiana MP Amrinder Singh Raja Warring also condemned the incident, saying, A gangster has the audacity to threaten a senior INC leader from inside jail! Imagine the plight of common people in Punjab. This reflects the complete collapse of law and order in Punjab.
Leafhopper outbreak in decade hits North Indias cotton belt
A severe outbreak of leafhopper pests, commonly known as jassids, in the cotton fields of North India could significantly impact the country's already declining cotton production. A recent field survey conducted by the South Asia Biotechnology Centre revealed a massive infestation of green leafhoppers, referred to locally as hara tela , in key cotton-growing districts. These areas include Hisar, Fatehabad, and Sirsa in Haryana, as well as Mansa, Bathinda, Abohar, and Fazilka in Punjab, and Hanumangarh and Sri Ganganagar in Rajasthan. The survey was part of the Bandhan project, a programme run by government institutions such as the Central Institute of Cotton Research and various State Agriculture Universities, in collaboration with local non-profit organisations. The aim of this project is to assist farmers in combating Pink Bollworm pests in cotton crops. The survey team, consisting of scientists, found infestation levels of 1215 leafhoppers per leafsignificantly above the Economic Threshold Level (ETL). The team further noted that an alarming number of cotton leaf injuries exceeded ETL, based on the damage grading system. For the past three consecutive weeks, green leafhopper (jassid) populations have exceeded ETL, allegedly triggering widespread yellowing of leaf margins and downward curlingclassic symptoms of jassid attack. Scientists attribute the outbreak to a confluence of weather conditions, including above-average rainfall, an increased number of rainy days, persistent humidity, and cloud cover, all of which have allegedly created ideal conditions for jassid proliferation. Fields were graded 3 to 4 based on the ICAR-CICR infestation scale, indicating severe to extreme damage. Experts confirm this is the worst outbreak in a decade in the North cotton-growing zone. The leafhopper infestation has emerged at a time when the cotton crop stands, and overall condition, are significantly better than in the past three to four years. The crop appears robust across the northern region, except in late-sown areas of Sri Ganganagar, where irrigation was unavailable during the sowing period, noted Dr Bhagirath Choudhary, Founder & Director of South Asia Biotechnology Centres High-Tech R&D Station, Sirsa, Haryana. The survey team noted that failure to control this green leafhopper infestation promptly could lead to substantial damage to the cotton crop in the coming days. Farmers must remain alert and take immediate action to manage the pest effectively to avoid potential yield losses. The field team was led by scientists and cotton experts including Dr Dilip Monga, Dr Bhagirath Choudhary, Dr Naresh, Deepak Jakhar, and KS Bhardwaj.
Farmers take out tractor marches demanding immediate withdrawal of land pooling scheme in Punjab
CHANDIGARH: With anger mounting against the controversial land pooling scheme of the Punjab government, farmers across the state held tractor marches demanding its immediate withdrawal. The state government plans to acquire 65,533 acres of land across 21 cities and towns in the state to develop both industrial and residential zones. It is the largest acquisition of land by the government in the state since it was reorganized in 1966. The Sanyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) comprising 35 farm unions had given a call for tractor marches which got support from other farm unions including the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) and BKU Ekta-Ugrahan, the largest farm union of the state. On the call given by the SKM, tractor marches were taken out in various parts of the state including Ludhiana, Amritsar, Sangrur, Mohali, Bathinda, Taran Taran, Patiala, Ferozepur, Fategarh Sahib, Ropar, Jalandhar, SBS Nagar, Hoshiarpur, Moga and Mansa districts despite inclement weather. The biggest show of strength by farmers was witnessed in Ludhiana district where the state government proposes to acquire 45,861 acres of land. This includes 24,311 acres of land for residential purposes and 21,550 acres for setting up industrial zones. The epicentre of the protest was Dana Mandi in Jodhan near Ludhiana. A cavalcade of nearly 300 vehicles including tractors and tempos carrying many farmers and activists made its way through various villages. Senior SKM leader and president of BKU (Lakhowal Group) Harinder Singh Lakhowal who himself led the tractor march from Kum Kalan to Ratangarh village, covering 30 villages of the area, told TNIE that farmers in thousands participated in the tractor march, which started at around 9.30 am and ended at 2 pm. On August 4, a meeting of the SKM will be held to decide where to hold the massive rally which we have planned for August 24. If by then the government does not take back the land pooling scheme, a big agitation will be announced by us, he added. Without naming the AAP, posters have been put up in many villages, which read, Any official or leader of any party who wants to apprise about the benefits of the scheme will not be allowed to enter the village. Terming the policy a 'major conspiracy' to erase villages from the map of the state, senior SKM leader and president of BKU (Rajewal Group) Balbir Singh Rajewal said the tractor rally was held in several places of Ludhiana district including Kumkalan, Balion, Dakha, Jodha and Jagraon. It was the biggest-ever march in recent times, as the public in rural areas showed their anger against the governments bid to take over their fertile lands and displace them from their homes. This policy will ruin at least 20,000 families of farmers and leave farm labourers jobless, he said. In Amritsar district, tractor marches were taken out in Ajnala and Mannawala as farmers from villages around Guru Ka Bagh marched towards Gurdwara Morcha Sahib on the Amritsar-Ajnala road where they were joined by another cavalcade from villages around Rajasansi. A march was also taken out in neighboring Tarn Taran district. In Sangrur district, the rally started from Sohian village, near Sangrur, and culminated at the deputy commissioner's office. Farmers led by SKM leaders also started a dharna against the government in front of the DC office in Fatehgarh Sahib. Sarwan Singh Pandher, General Secretary of Kisan Mazdoor Sangarsh Committee, said they appeal to the government to withdraw the policy before a massive agitation starts. We know that the proposed acquisition announcement by the government was just a start, he said. Several tractors were fitted with music systems and extra seating to accommodate more protesters. These mobile convoys passed through the villages where the government reportedly plans to acquire land under the pooling policy. Women also extended support to the protesting farmers as they offered refreshments including chabeels, langars and parshad. The farmer leaders say that farmers are getting ready to fall into direct confrontation if such a situation arises. We are determined to oppose the land pooling scheme and do not want to part with our fertile lands and will go to any length to stop our land to be taken forcibly, said a farmer Kamalpreet Singh. The AAP government has been facing flak from opposition parties, including the Congress, Shiromani Akali Dal and BJP, which dubbed its land pooling policy a looting scheme to rob farmers of their land. In return, the AAP has hit out at the opposition parties for spreading misleading propaganda.
Shiromani Akali Dal members staged a protest rally in Mohali against the land pooling policy. The party announced to hold another demonstration rally in Bathinda on August 4
Punjabs jails to get AI surveillance, 5G jammers in Rs 252 crore overhaul
CHANDIGARH: In a major push to modernise its prison infrastructure and security measures, the Punjab government is rolling out advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based surveillance systems, full-body scanners, and 5G jammers across all 14 jails in the state. The initiative aims to curb drug smuggling, mobile phone use, and in-prison violence, while also addressing overcrowding. The state has sanctioned Rs 252 crore for comprehensive jail upgrades. Of this, Rs 126 crore is for installing security equipment and Rs 126 crore for constructing new barracks to accommodate over 5,000 additional inmates. According to senior government officials, AI-enabled CCTV systems will be installed in 11 jails this year as part of a state-wide rollout. This will help in detection and generating alerts on identification of throws from over the walls, crowd detection, entry into prohibited zones, entry or exit of foreign objects, an official said. The Prison Inmate Calling System has also been expanded, with 800 calling machines installed to ensure inmates can legally communicate with their families without resorting to unauthorised means. To block unauthorised mobile signals and deter criminal coordination from inside the jails, 63 V-Kavach jammers, capable of disrupting 5G and 5GHz Wi-Fi, will be installed in three central jails in the state: Bathinda, New Jail Nabha, and Goindwal, as well as in the high-security zones of ten others. The procurement process is underway, and towers for the jammers are already being constructed. The security revamp also includes procurement of full-body scanners, X-ray tunnel scanners (both large and small), body-worn cameras, floodlights, searchlights, walkie-talkie sets, non-linear junction detectors to detect hidden phones, boom barriers, anti-riot kits, e-carts, and wire mesh in high-security areas. The states canine squad will also be expanded, with 32 sniffer dogs being inducted, up from fewer than 10 at present. Currently, Punjabs prisons house approximately 38,000 inmates, far exceeding the sanctioned capacity of 26,081. To address this, the state is constructing new barracks in nine jails, which will add capacity for over 5,100 prisoners. Of this, around 4,000 spaces are expected to be ready within this financial year. Tenders have been floated by the Punjab Police Housing Corporation for the same. The state is also augmenting manpower, with recruitment underway for 692 personnel, including wardens, matrons, assistant superintendents, and deputy superintendents. This multi-pronged upgrade is one of the most ambitious prison reforms Punjab has allegedly undertaken in recent years.
AI-based CCTV surveillance system to be installed across all 14 jails in Punjab
CHANDIGARH: An Artificial Intelligence (AI) based CCTV surveillance system will be installed in all 14 jails in Punjab to detect the throwing of mobile phones and other contrabands, including drugs, from across the walls. The measure will help to keep an eye out for no violence and aid in curbing criminal activity, besides crowd detection. The V-Kavach jammers (upto 5G and 5Gz wifi) will be installed in Bathinda, New Jail, Nabha and Goindwal jails and in high security zones of ten other most sensitive jails. Full body scanners, body cameras, and boom barriers will also be installed. A total of Rs 252 crore is being spent on security equipment to be installed and also for the upgradation of infrastructure by building new barracks which can accommodate more than 5000 inmates across the jails. High-placed sources said that the state government has sanctioned a total of Rs 126 crore to be spent on security equipment to be installed in all 14 jails across Punjab. The prison department is procuring an Artificial Intelligence (AI) based CCTV surveillance system to be installed in all the jails, and this year, it will be installed across 11 jails. This will help in detection and generation of alerts on identification of objects thrown over the walls, detect crowd, entry into prohibited zones, entry or exit of foreign objects, said an officer. He added that the Prison Inmate Calling System has been augmented and 800 prison calling machines have been installed to provide legal space to the inmates to communicate with their families. A total of 63 jammers will be put in place, and the process for procuring machines has been initiated, and sites have been identified. Towers are being constructed in which these jammers will be placed, said sources. Also, full body scanners, X-ray based scanner (Large and Small tunnels), body worn cameras, search lights, flood lights, high mast poles, walkie-talkie set, non linear junction detectors (to detect mobile), boom barriers, anti riot kits, e-carts and wire mesh in high security zones are being procured besides 32 sniffer dogs. At present, fewer than ten sniffer dogs are in use. As of date, there are approximately 38,000 inmates lodged in all the jails against an authorised capacity of 26,081 prisoners. The cumulative capacity of lodging prisoners in the jails is being enhanced by around 5,100 inmates as construction of new barracks in nine jails is underway. In the present financial year, the capacity for over 4,000 inmates will be enhanced in five jails for which the tender process has already been initiated by the Punjab Police Housing Corporation. Not only the infrastructure is being enhanced, but also the manpower in the jails is being augmented as wardens, matrons, assistant superintendents, and deputy superintendents are being recruited. A total of 692 personnel will be recruited, said sources.
AIIMS Bathinda Project Technical Support Recruitment 2025 - Apply Online
The All India Institute of Medical Sciences Bathinda (AIIMS Bathinda) has released an official notification for the recruitment of 02 Project Technical Support posts. Interested and eligible candidates can apply online through the official AIIMS Bathinda website. The last date to submit the application form is 19-08-2025.
CHANDIGARH: The Aam Aadmi Party-led Punjab government and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the apex representative body of Sikhs, are at daggers drawn over events planned to commemorate the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur from November 19 to 25 this year. SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami said that the Punjab government should focus on establishing meaningful memorials in connection with the 350th martyrdom anniversary of the Ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Teg Bahadar, instead of creating a confrontational atmosphere by organising parallel religious events. Dhami said the SGPC had already planned a series of events related 350th martyrdom anniversary a year in advance, beginning in April 2025 from Gurdwara Guru Ke Mahal, Amritsar. Since then, events have been organised across various parts of the country. He said that the Punjab governments announcement of parallel eventsoverlapping with those planned by the SGPC at Anandpur Sahibwill cause confusion among the Sangat (community) and goes against long-standing traditions He alleged that the government appears to be deliberately trying to sideline Sikh institutions. Historically, centenary celebrations related to Sikh heritage and history have been led by the Khalsa Panth, with participation from all Sikh sampradas and organisations while the governments supporting them. Dhami questioned why the government has not shown due seriousness towards nearly 12 Sikh centenaries during its tenureincluding the centenary of the Guru Ka Bagh Morcha, the centenary of the Saka Panja Sahib, 200 years of Shaheedi of Akali Baba Phoola Singh, Guru Angad Devs Guruship Day, and the 450th Jyoti Jot Diwas of Guru Amar Das. He recalled how earlier governments cooperated with the Panth in marking the centenaries, establishing major memorials such as Guru Nanak Dev University, Guru Nanak Hospital (Amritsar), and colleges during Guru Nanak Devs 500th Prakash Purab (birth anniversary) in 1969; Virasat-e-Khalsa and Panj Piara Park during the 300th Khalsa Sajna Diwas in 1999 and a historical memorial at Chappar Chiri in 2010 in remembrance of Baba Banda Singh Bahadars victory at Sirhind. However, the current government led by Bhagwant Mann is instead interfering in the jurisdiction of Panthic institutions and organizations, he alleged. Dhami reaffirmed that the SGPC, as the supreme religious body of the Sikh Panth, has already made clear that heads of all governments will be invited to participate in these commemorations, ensuring inclusivity. In such a context, the government's move to announce parallel programs raises serious concerns. Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday had announced a series of events to be organised by the state government to commemorate the 350th martyrdom day of Guru Tegh Bahadur. After chairing a meeting, Mann said the events would primarily be held at Anandpur Sahib under the aegis of the state government . He had said that from November 19 to November 25, a series of events will beorganised with deep reverence and respect across the state. In a statement, Mann said these events will primarily take place in Anandpur Sahib under the auspices of the state government. To mark the occasion, CM Mann announced that four grand yatras will begin from different corners of Punjab and converge at Anandpur Sahib. The first will begin on November 21 from Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir and pass through Pathankot and Hoshiarpur to reach Anandpur Sahib. Likewise, CM Mann said that the second yatra will start from Gurdaspur and travel through Baba Bakala, Amritsar Sahib, Tarn Taran, and Jalandhar, eventually reaching Anandpur Sahib. He said the third yatra will start from Ferozepur, pass through Moga and Ludhiana to proceed towards Anandpur Sahib and the fourth yatra will also start from Ferozepur and will pass through Faridkot, Bathinda, Barnala, Sangrur, Mansa, and Patiala, and conclude at Anandpur Sahib. The CM had added that light-and-sound shows and poetry sessions based on Guru Sahib's life and sacrifice would be organised in all 23 districts of Punjab. Blaming the SGPCs stance, Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains said, You know the reasons. They do not want to meet us. Through you, we are extending an invitation to them. They can call us or approach the state government.
41 children found begging rescued in raids across 18 locations in Punjab
CHANDIGARH: In a significant move to eradicate child begging, 41 children were rescued in the last two days during 18 raids conducted across various locations in Punjab under the states intensified child protection initiative, Project Jeevan Jyot 2.0 Save the Childhood. Authorities have ordered DNA testing in suspicious cases to verify whether the accompanying adults are the childrens biological parents. Punjab Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr Baljit Kaur said, When we see small children forced to beg on our streets, it is not just their dignity that suffers, it raises serious questions on our societys collective conscience and on the honour of Punjab itself. The minister explained that the earlier version of the programme, Project Jeevan Jyot 1.0, launched in September last year, led to the rescue of 367 children across 753 raids. Of these, 350 children were reunited with their families. Seventeen children whose parents could not be identified were placed in Child Care Homes (Bal Ghar), while 150 rescued children from other states were repatriated to their families under the same initiative. Dr Kaur noted that the project also focused on reintegration through education and financial support. A total of 183 children were admitted to schools, and 13 children under the age of six were enrolled in Anganwadi centres for early childhood care. Additionally, 30 children from extremely poor families were enrolled in the Sponsorship Scheme, receiving 4,000 per month to ensure their education continues uninterrupted. Another 16 children were brought under the states pension scheme, receiving 1,500 per month, she said. She emphasised that the governments role goes beyond rescue. We are ensuring continuous monitoring, as every three months, district-level child protection teams verify whether these children continue attending school and are not back on the streets, she said. However, she admitted that despite these efforts, 57 children were found missing again from the schools or homes they were placed in. This raises an alarming question: Are these children truly safe with their families, or have they fallen victim to human trafficking or begging mafias? she added. To address these concerns, the government has upgraded and intensified the mission under Project Jeevan Jyot-2. Over the last two days, 18 rescue operations were conducted across districts, resulting in 41 children being rescued. DNA testing has now been introduced in cases where it is unclear whether the adults accompanying the children are their biological parents. If any adult is found forcing unrelated children to beg, strict action will follow under the law. DNA tests will be conducted with orders from the Deputy Commissioner, and during the 1520 day report period, the children will remain safely under government protection in Bal Ghar. If DNA reports confirm that the adults are not the biological parents, stringent legal action will be initiated, including charges under anti-trafficking and child protection laws, she said. Kaur added that an FIR has already been registered in Bathinda, where 20 children were allegedly rescued from villages suspected of being exploited for begging. She claimed that Punjab is the first state in the country to initiate such an integrated, aggressive and self-conceived programme without waiting for any directive from the central government. Project Jeevan Jyot-2 combines provisions from The Beggary Act, The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, guidelines of the Supreme Court and High Court, and SOPs issued by the Punjab State Child Protection Commission.
Secret call recordings allowed in divorce cases
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday set aside a Punjab and Haryana High Court order that prevented a man from using secret phone call recordings or surveillance of his wife as evidence in divorce proceedings, while noting that these recordings wouldnt be considered a a violation of privacy. A two-judge bench, comprising Justices B V Nagarathna and Satish Chandra Sharma, said, We do not think there is any breach of privacy in this case. Section 122 of the Evidence Act does not recognise any such right. On the other hand, it carves out an exception to the right to privacy between spouses and therefore, cannot be applied horizontally at all. Earlier, the Punjab and Haryana HC Judge Justice Lisa Gill had held that recording a wifes telephonic conversations or snooping on her amounted to clear breach of privacy of her fundamental right and thereby cannot be admitted as evidence before a Family Court during the matrimonial proceedings or case. Before the HC verdict, a Family Court in Bathinda had allowed a husband to rely on certain recordings of phone calls against his wife to support claims of cruelty. Later, the woman challenged this in the HC, saying that the recordings were made by her husband without her knowledge or consent and violated her fundamental right to privacy. The HC accepted the wifes plea and ruled the evidence inadmissible, stating that surreptitious recording amounted to a clear breach of privacy and was legally unjustified. Eventually, the SC restored the trial court order and said recorded conversations can be taken note of during the matrimonial proceedings. It, thereby, in its verdict, asked the family court to proceed with the case after taking judicial note of the recorded conversations. While reversing the HC judgement, the HC observed, If the marriage has reached a stage where spouses are actively snooping on each other, that is in itself a symptom of a broken relationship and denotes a lack of trust between them. The SC pronounced the verdict after hearing an SLP filed by the husband. Also in top court Cartoonist to delete posts after SC rap The top court has directed the president and secretary of the Gautam Budh Nagar district court bar association to appear before it over the alleged manhandling of a senior advocate. A two-judge bench on March 21 last year directed both the office bearers to appear before it but they failed to comply with the order. SIMI continues on five year ban The Supreme Court rejected a plea filed by a former SIMI member, challenging an order of a tribunal which confirmed the 5-year extension of ban imposed on SIMI. The tribunal was constituted under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 after the Centre had on January 29, 2024 decided to extend the ban.
AAP government in Punjab to hire retired doctors amid severe shortage of medical specialists
CHANDIGARH: Facing an acute shortage of medical specialists, the Aam Aadmi Party-led Punjab government has begun hiring retired doctors, even as it claims to have improved the states healthcare infrastructure. Nearly 47 per cent of sanctioned specialist posts in government hospitals remain vacant across Punjab. Sources said that out of the 2,098 posts of sanctioned specialists, 990 are lying vacant. Not only specialist doctors but also posts of doctors in the general medical officer cadre are lying vacant. 1,962 posts are yet to be filled out of 3,847, which comes to 51 per cent. Sources said that the state health department has decided to recruit 100 retired medical specialists through walk-in interviews. Thus, it has invited applications from the retired government doctors to apply for these contractual posts of consultants in district hospitals, sub-divisional hospitals and community health centres (CHCs). As per the notification issued by the state health department, the posts to be filled include 21 in paediatrics, 20 in general medicine, 20 in gynaecology, 15 in general surgery, 13 in anaesthesia, 7 radiologists and four doctors in psychiatry. Also, only retired specialist doctors between 58 and 64 years of age will be eligible to apply. The contract will be for one year and can be extended annually based on performance and subject to the approval of the finance department. These doctors will get remuneration equivalent to the last pay drawn, minus pension, plus dearness allowance as admissible on the date of appointment. Besides, they must be free of disciplinary proceedings. They will not be allowed to engage in private practice during the contractual period and will only do clinical duties (outpatient, inpatient, and emergency care) and will be exempted from medico-legal, administrative, or post-mortem responsibilities. Recently, posts of specialised doctors were advertised, but only 60 doctors joined. In 2022, the government also tried to fill 634 posts of specialist doctors but did not get a good response. The reason that doctors refrain from joining the state medical services is due to pay disparities, lack of emergency medical staff thus, specialist doctors have to take care of emergencies, and they are also deployed for VVIP duties. This decision of the state health department to hire retired specialists has not gone well with the young doctors, and many of them say they have been awaiting recruitment since November 2022, when the last advertisement for regular posts was issued. Interestingly, 31 specialist doctors who pursued post-graduation under the government quota have exited service without completing the mandatory service period or depositing the stipulated bond amount of Rs 50 lakh. As per rules, after one gets admission under the Punjab Civil Medical Services (PCMS) quota, one has to serve with the state government as one signs a 10-year service bond in exchange for subsidised admission. As four doctors each resigned from Sangrur and Ludhiana, three each from Kapurthala, Mansa, and Faridkot, two each from Mohali, Tarn Taran, and Ropar and one each from Bathinda, Patiala, Fatehgarh Sahib, Nawanshahr, Hoshiarpur, Gurdaspur, Jalandhar and Barnala. They have also not deposited the bond amount they pledged at the time of admission. The health department has directed civil surgeons to initiate recovery proceedings. The civil surgeons have been instructed to contact these doctors immediately and serve them a 21-day notice to deposit the bond, amount and if they fail, disciplinary action will be initiated, and the department has directed that a formal request be made to the Punjab Medical Council or relevant regulatory bodies to cancel their medical registration. Punjab Civil Medical Services Association (PCMSA) president Dr Akhil Sarin said a few months back, 110 specialised doctors joined as part of their bond obligation, and in the coming days a few more are likely to join after the end of the extensions granted to them. Also, walk-in interviews for an additional 160 specialist posts are also in the pipeline. All these steps are effectively aimed at providing specialist services to the poor and underserved. In 2020, the then government stalled career progression of medical officers this was one of the causes why specialised doctors did not opt for government jobs. While lack of security is another issue, he said. ` A few years back their were similar schemes of re-employment of post retirement and few doctors had taken the extensions then, he said.
Rs 4,215 crore scam: Telangana CID nabs Falcon COO
Hyderabad: The Telangana Crime Investigation Department (CID) has arrested the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Falcon Group, Aaryan Singh, in Rs 4,215 crore scam. Aaryan Singh alias Aaryan Singh Chhabra was apprehended by the Telangana CID in Bathinda, Punjab, on July 4 and produced before the local court for transit remand. He was brought to 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 .
Hyderabad: Falcon COO Arrested for Rs 4,215 Crore Scam
Aaryan Singh diverted an amount of Rs 1.62 crore to his account from the funds of Falcon. When the crime was reported, he fled away to Nanded and later Bathinda, where he took shelter at a Gurdwara. On a tip off, a special team of CID Telangana went to Bathinda and apprehended him.
CHANDIGARH: The Punjab Police has arrested one of its own Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSP) for allegedly attempting to bribe the staff of a senior official in a bid to suppress a complaint filed against him. Sources revealed that DSP Rajan Pal, posted in the Crime Against Women Cell in Faridkot, was booked under the Prevention of Corruption Act after he was caught allegedly offering a bribe of Rs 1 lakh to Assistant Sub-Inspector Jaswinder Singh, reader to the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) of Faridkot, Dr Pragya Jain. The complaint against Rajan Pal originated from Kiranjit Kaur of Pakka village, who had filed a case related to a matrimonial dispute. Her brother, Karmtej Singh, alleged that the DSP had demanded Rs 1 lakh to act on their case. Despite allegedly receiving the money, the officer failed to take any action. When the family reported the matter to SSP Dr Pragya Jain, the accused officer allegedly attempted to bribe her staff to cover up his misconduct. A senior police official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the arrest and stated that a case has been registered against DSP Rajan Pal. He has been taken into custody and further investigations are underway. Disciplinary action, including suspension, is likely. This incident comes just two days after the Punjab Vigilance Bureau arrested Head Constable Raj Kumar, who was working as the assistant reader to the DSP of Bhucho, Ravinder Singh. He was caught red-handed accepting a bribe of Rs 1 lakh. A case under the Prevention of Corruption Act was registered at the Vigilance Bureaus police station in the Bathinda range. Additionally, last month, DSP Harbans Singh Dhaliwal, posted as DSP-1 in Bathinda, was suspended for alleged misconduct in the handling of organised crime cases.
25 Punjab jail officials suspended as government cracks down on systemic corruption, drug trade
CHANDIGARH: In a major move against corruption and drug rackets operating within prisons across the state, the Punjab Government has suspended 25 officials, including three Deputy Superintendents and two Assistant Superintendents of the Jails Department. Following reports of irregularities and drug-related activities within jails, the government said the action was to end corruption and drug networks. The big action was taken as per information received about corruption and drug networks in jails, said an official on condition of anonymity. He further stated that the suspensions aim to bring about systemic reform in prison management and ensure greater transparency and efficiency. This action is expected to significantly improve the functioning of jails and promote a more accountable system, he added. Sources said that in the last few years, there have been multiple instances of gangsters operating drug and criminal syndicates using mobile phones inside prisons, with visitors devising innovative methods to smuggle contraband and jail staff allegedly facilitating the entry of drugs and other banned items. In a recent case, jailed pastor Bajinder Singh was found in possession of a mobile phone and cash inside his cell at the Mansa district jail. A fresh case under the Prisons Act has been registered against him. Singh is currently serving a life sentence for the rape of a woman in 2018. On 9 June this year, an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) and a head constable were arrested in connection with the smuggling of drugs and other prohibited items into Ropar district jail. Prior to that, on 15 May, the Deputy Superintendent of Police (Security) at Sangrur jail was arrested for his alleged active involvement in drug smuggling. In July last year, 200 inmates lodged in various prisons were shifted to Bathinda Central Jail by the Special Task Force to curb mobile phone usage, as the facility is equipped with advanced jamming technology. Sources also revealed that there are currently around 36,000 inmates in jails across Punjab, against a sanctioned capacity of 26,000. The recent surge in inmate numbers is largely attributed to arrests made under the state governments ongoing Yudh Nashian Virudh (War Against Drugs) campaign. A screening of jail inmates conducted in 2022 found that at least 47 per cent were addicted to drugs. Of the approximately 30,000 inmates screened, 14,000 were found to be drug-dependent, with many reportedly becoming addicts after entering prison. The most commonly used substances were morphine, tramadol and buprenorphine.
CHANDIGARH: Amritpal Singh Mehron, the main accused in the murder of Punjab-based social media influencer Kanchan Kumari, also known as Kamal Kaur Bhabi, is now being glorified as a hero in parts of Punjab. Flex-boards depicting Mehron with phrases such as Kaum Da Heera (Jewel of the Community) and Izattan De Rakhe (Protector of Honour) have appeared in Ludhiana, sparking outrage and concern. What has caused further alarm is that Malkiat Singh, the Head Granthi of the Golden Temple, has come out in open support of Mehron. Speaking on the matter, Malkiat Singh alleged that the victim had adopted a Sikh name with the intention of tarnishing the image of the Sikh community. He claimed that Kamal Kaurs name misled people into believing she belonged to a Sikh family. Sikh history is filled with examples where those engaging in indecent activities were punished, he said. According to Sikh teachings, we are discouraged from listening to vulgar songs. People spreading obscenity and defaming the community deserve such treatment. Nothing wrong has happened its not the first time such a thing has occurred. Amritpal Singh Mehron wanted for murder, threats to women influencers; Punjab Police issues lookout notice The flex-boards, however, violate standard legal requirements as they lack printer details or mention of any sponsoring individual or organisation. Despite their visibility, the Ludhiana district administration currently focused on the Ludhiana West Assembly by-election has yet to respond to the matter, according to sources. Mehron reportedly fled to the UAE just hours after the alleged murder, which has gripped the state in controversy. Malkiat Singhs position as Head Granthi of the Golden Temple makes him one of the highest religious functionaries in Sikhism, second only to the Jathedar. While the Jathedar addresses broader issues concerning the Sikh community, the Head Granthi is responsible for maintaining religious discipline and overseeing daily ceremonies. Amritpal Singh linked to murder of Sikh activist as Punjab police arrest three suspects In a significant development, the Punjab Police have issued a lookout circular for Ranjit Singh of Sohal village in Tarn Taran district, another suspect in the case. A lookout notice had earlier been issued for Amritpal Singh Mehron, described as the mastermind of the crime. Two of his alleged accomplices, Jaspreet Singh and Nimaratjeet Singh, are already in police custody. Senior Superintendent of Police, Bathinda, Amneet Kondal clarified that, according to the post-mortem report, the influencer was not raped. The post-mortem does not mention sexual assault. The body was in a highly decomposed state, making it difficult to determine any such evidence. The cause of death has been confirmed as strangulation, and the viscera report is awaited, she said. Meanwhile, Bollywood singer Mika Singh released a video message condemning the murder. Urging Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to take swift and strict action, Mika Singh said such acts of violence are deeply disturbing and go against Sikh values. True Sikhs protect women they do not harm them, he said.
Akal Takht head priest justifies murder of social media influencer Kanchan Kumari
Amritsar, Jun 17: The head priest of the Akal Takht has justified the killing of social media influencer Kanchan Kumari, saying nothing wrong has happened and nobody should listen to obscene songs. Kanchan, also known as Kamal Kaur Bhabhi, was allegedly targeted for promoting obscenity in her videos. She was murdered on June 9 and her body found in an abandoned car in Bathinda. As per Sikh religions teaching, nobody, including Hindus and Muslims, should listen to obscene songs, especially [] The post Akal Takht head priest justifies murder of social media influencer Kanchan Kumari appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
CHANDIGARH: Self-styled Sikh radical Amritpal Singh Mehron , the prime accused in the murder of digital content creator Kanchan Kumari alias Kamal Kaur Bhabhi allegedly for posting 'obscene' content has also issued threats to other social media influencers, including Simarpreet Kaur alias 'Preet Jatti' and Deepika Luthra. Punjab Police have now issued a lookout circular against Mehron, who remains absconding, and have blocked four of his Instagram handles in India, along with the account of the group he heads, Kaum De Rakhe, for allegedly posting racist content and death threats. A 30-year-old Nihang and resident of Moga, Mehron has a significant social media following. His blocked accounts amritpalsinghmehron , amritpalsingh_mehron , amritpal.singh.mehron , and kaum.de.rakhe are now inaccessible in India, displaying a message citing legal restrictions. Sources state several other accounts are under scrutiny for supporting Mehron's objectionable content. Disturbingly, some influencers from Punjab and Haryana have posted videos justifying Kanchans murder as a warning to so-called immoral elements. Punjab Police ask Tinder for details on profile linked to radical preacher Amritpal Singh On Saturday, Simarpreet Kaur, alias Preet Jatti a popular influencer from Tarn Taran with over 5 lakh Instagram followers revealed she had received death threats for promoting astrology. She stated she had been warned against posting any content and appealed for police protection, highlighting her concern for her five-month-old child. Another influencer, Deepika Luthra from Amritsar, said she too was threatened by Mehron. Though she had deleted her earlier posts and publicly apologised, she claimed to still feel endangered. Mehron allegedly warned her that there are many parking lots, and it is not necessary for a body to be found every time. The cybercrime cell of Amritsar Police has registered a case against Mehron for issuing threats to Luthra and others, warning them against posting double meaning or vulgar content. In a video posted on Friday, three members of the social media platform Pendu Jatt Records also issued an apology to Mehron, pledging to stop posting obscene content, admitting they had done so to increase their follower count. Meanwhile, Pakistan-based gangster Shahzad Bhatti has come out in support of Mehron, offering him any kind of support to act against social media influencers allegedly promoting indecent content. Senior Superintendent of Police, Bathinda, Amneet Kondal confirmed that a lookout circular has been issued to prevent Mehron from fleeing the country. The state cyber cell has launched a formal investigation. Mehron, who refers to himself as a religious leader, contested the 2022 Punjab Assembly election from the Tarn Taran seat on a Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar) ticket but was unsuccessful. As per his election affidavit, he studied up to Class 12 (non-medical stream) and holds a diploma in diesel mechanics. Chairperson of the Punjab State Commission for Women, Raj Lali Gill, condemned the incident, saying, Self-styled vigilantes have no right to indulge in moral policing or take the law into their own hands. However, it is also the responsibility of content creators to ensure that their material does not breach the social and moral fabric of society. There is a need to raise awareness on this issue, especially as children and youth are heavily influenced by social media.
CHANDIGARH: The Punjab Police have cracked the blind murder case of 30-year-old social media influencer Kanchan Kumari, popularly known as Kamal Kaur Bhabhi, with the arrest of two nihangs who allegedly killed her as part of a moral policing act. Kanchan was found dead under mysterious circumstances inside her car parked outside Adesh University at Bhucho Kalan, along the Bathinda-Chandigarh highway, on Wednesday. The arrested accused have been identified as Jaspreet Singh (32) of Mehron village in Moga district and Nimratjeet Singh (21) of Harike in Tarn Taran district. Both are unemployed and frequently wore nihang attire. They were arrested around 1 am on Thursday. However, the key accused, Amritpal Singh Mehron, remains absconding. Canada-based designated gangster-terrorist Arsh Dalla had also allegedly threatened Kanchan earlier, warning her of dire consequences if she continued posting objectionable videos. Confirming that the murder was premeditated and executed with full coordination, Senior Superintendent of Police of Bathinda, Amneet Kondal, said, The alleged accused Jaspreet Singh and Nimratjeet Singh have been arrested for the murder, while a search is on for the third accused, Amritpal Singh Mehron, a self-styled Sikh radical leader, who is on the run. They had earlier warned the deceased Kanchan not to post her online content, which they thought was vulgar and objectionable. The main accused Amritpal Singh had earlier warned her to stop posting vulgar videos and had planned to teach her a lesson. He, along with others, then hatched a conspiracy and they strangled her to death at an isolated location on Tuesday, Kondal added. She further revealed that on June 7, Amritpal had approached Kanchan at her Ludhiana residence and sought promotional work in Bathinda. He again met her the next day and convinced her to visit Bathinda. Then, on June 9, he contacted her again, and Kanchan agreed. That night, her mother could not contact her. Later, on Wednesday night, her decomposed body was found inside her car parked outside Adesh University near Bathinda, said Kondal. The alleged accused also took her to a workshop on the pretext of getting her car repaired. During an argument, Jaspreet, who was wearing a waistband under his shirt, strangled her. Later, her body was shifted and dumped in her car to mislead the police, Kondal said. She added that the police collected CCTV footage to trace the accused during the investigation. Kanchan, who belonged to a family of migrant workers but spoke fluent Punjabi, had 2.36 lakh followers on YouTube, 3.84 lakh on Instagram, and 1.74 lakh on Facebook. She frequently posted reels and stories and was cremated in Bathinda on Thursday as her family was unable to take her mutilated body back to Ludhiana. Her mother, Girija Devi, told the police that her daughter often travelled for promotional work. The arrests came after Amritpal Singh Mehron claimed responsibility for the murder on social media, just hours after Kanchans decomposed body was discovered. A video surfaced online in which Mehron is seen justifying the crime, saying Kanchan was killed by two of his accomplices. He claimed she belonged to a non-Sikh family but used a Sikh name to create immoral content. He went on to say that his accomplices would continue to target people engaged in objectionable content creation.
Amritpal Singh Mehron claimed responsibility for the murder of social media influencer Kamal Kaur, alleging she defamed Sikh traditions. Kaur's body was discovered in a car in Bathinda, prompting a police investigation. Two Nihang Sikhs have been arrested, and authorities are exploring their connections to Mehron and the crime.
Punjab: Influencer Kamal Kaur Found Dead in Car
Forensic evidence suggests murder; Kaur was killed elsewhere before being left in a parked car near Bathinda.
Who Was Kamal Kaur 'Bhabhi', Instagram Influencer Found Dead In Car In Bathinda?
Kaur, a resident of Ludhiana, had more than 3.8 lakh followers on social media and had allegedly received threats from Khalistani terrorist Arsh Dalla
Who was Kamal Kaur? Ludhiana-based social media influencer found dead in her car in Bathinda
A post-mortem examination is scheduled for Thursday to ascertain the cause of death.
Who was Kamal Kaur, the controversial Punjabi influencer found dead in Bathinda?
Popular Punjabi influencer Kamal Kaur was discovered dead in a car near Adesh Medical University, Bathinda. Police found the body after reports of a foul smell. Preliminary investigations suggest a possible murder. The car had fake license plates. Kaur, also known as Kanchan Kumari, had received threats previously. Police are investigating all angles to find the culprits.
Punjabi Influencer Found Dead In Car In Mysterious Circumstances In Bathinda
Kanchan had a notable presence on social media and had been involved in several controversies online.
CHANDIGARH: The power demand in Punjab on Tuesday touched an all-time high of 16,838 megawatts (MW) amid severe heatwave conditions, with maximum temperatures in the southern and western parts of the state soaring between 46 degrees Celsius and 48-degree Celsius. With ongoing paddy transplantation further adding to electricity usage, it is anticipated that the state's power demand may soon cross the 17,000 MW mark. Bathinda recorded a sweltering 47.6 degrees Celsius while Sirsa in neighbouring Haryana registered 46.2 degrees Celsius. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) Chandigarh office, these prevailing heatwave conditions are likely to continue over Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh for the next three days. As per data from the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL), the state was drawing 10,243 MW from the Northern Grid, while its gross in-state generation stood at 6,600 MW. All state-run thermal and hydropower plants, including all four units of Ranjit Sagar Dam, were operating at full capacity. The breakdown of power generation at peak demand was as follows: State thermal generation: 2,020 MW Private thermal generation: 3,192 MW PSPCL hydropower generation: 950 MW Solar generation: 395 MW The current drawing limit from the Northern Grid is 10,400 MW, while the ideal in-state power availability is estimated at 6,600 MW. Meanwhile, coal stock across all thermal plants, both public sector-run and privately owned, is sufficient. At government-owned thermal plants, Lehra Mohabbat Thermal Plant has a 21-day stock, Ropar Thermal Plant has a 34-day stock, and Goindwal Thermal Plant has a 28-day stock. Among private sector plants, Rajpura has a 31-day stock and Talwandi Sabo has 23 days' worth of coal. In terms of power output, the Ropar Thermal Power Plant generated 680 MW, Lehra Mohabbat produced 830 MW, and Goindwal contributed 505 MW. Private sector plants also operated at high output, with Rajpura generating 1,325 MW and Talwandi Sabo contributing 1,860 MW. A PSPCL official said the department is prepared to take additional measures, including importing more power and optimising local generation, to meet the anticipated demand. However, an official, speaking on condition of anonymity, warned, If the power demand exceeds 16,800 MW, the consumers will start facing power cuts as it will surpass the transmission capacity infrastructure of PSPCL. Yesterday, the state had also broken its previous record by reaching 16,249 MW, surpassing the June 29 peak last year of 16,089 MW. The water level at Bhakra Dam was recorded at 1,555.4 feet, which is 28 feet lower than the 1,584.2 feet recorded on the same day last year. At Ranjit Sagar Dam, the water level was at 506.9 metres, slightly down from 507.2 metres last year on the same day. The paddy transplantation in the state, spread over nearly 32 lakh hectares, began in staggered phases from June 1 to June 9, adding further pressure on the power supply. In its afternoon statement, the IMD Chandigarh Office said, It is observed maximum temperature over southern and western parts of Punjab are in the range of 46-48 degrees Celsius with highest maximum temperature reported over Bathinda (47.6 degrees Celsius). Maximum temperatures over northern and eastern parts of Punjab are in the range of 44-46 degree Celsius. It is observed maximum temperatures over southern and western parts of Haryana are in the range of 45-47 degrees Celsius with highest maximum temperature reported over Sirsa (46.2-degree Celsius). Maximum temperature over northern parts of Haryana including Chandigarh are in the range of 44-45-degree Celsius, it added. The IMD further stated that prevailing heatwave conditions are most likely to continue over Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh during the next three days. Isolated severe heatwave conditions are also likely in southwestern districts of Punjab and Haryana during this period, with no large change in maximum temperatures expected in the next three days. A fall of 2-4 degree Celsius is likely thereafter. Whereas maximum temperature over northern and eastern parts of Punjab, Haryana including Chandigarh are likely to remain 44-46 degree Celsius during this period, the statement added.
Heatwave Persists In Punjab, Haryana; Bathinda Sizzles At 47.6 C, Sirsa Touches 46.2 C
Chandigarh, Jun 10: Haryana and Punjab continued to reel under intense heatwave on Tuesday with Bathinda recording the highest maximum temperature in the two states at 47.6 degrees Celsius, according to the weather department here. Blistering heat also swept Haryanas Sirsa as it recorded a high of 46.2 degrees Celsius. The mercury also continued to soar in Chandigarh, the common capital of the two states, which recorded the seasons highest maximum so far at 43.9 degrees Celsius, against Mondays 43.8 [] The post Heatwave Persists In Punjab, Haryana; Bathinda Sizzles At 47.6 C, Sirsa Touches 46.2 C appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Former DSP Bhola, convicted in Rs 700 crore drug racket case, out on bail after 12 years
CHANDIGARH: Former Deputy Superintendent of Punjab Police and Arjuna Award-winning wrestler Jagdish Bhola, an alleged kingpin of a synthetic narcotics racket worth Rs 700 crore, walked out of Bathinda Central Jail on June 1 after nearly 12 years of incarceration. He was granted bail by the Punjab and Haryana High Court on May 21. Hailing from Raike Kalan village in Bathinda, Bhola had been convicted in one of the largest drug trafficking cases in the history of the State, which involved a Rs 700 crore synthetic narcotics racket. He has been convicted in two cases, while a few more criminal cases were pending against him. In 2019, a special CBI court sentenced Bhola to 24 years in prison. Last year, he received an additional 10-year sentence following a conviction for money laundering. Confirming that Bhola has been released, Bathinda Central Jail Superintendent Manjit Singh Sidhu said that it took place in the evening of Sunday after all formalities were completed. The bail order of the Punjab and Haryana High Court came with strict conditions. Bhola was required to furnish a Rs 5 lakh bond and surrender his passport and complete a community service project (planting 100 trees within 15 days of his release). He was dismissed from the police force in 2012 after the recovery of poppy husk. Bhola was arrested by Punjab Police in November 2013 in connection with the Rs 700-crore multi-state drug trafficking network. Investigations led by Punjab Police and central agencies uncovered the illegal trade of synthetic drugs, including pseudoephedrine. The ED arrested him in 2014 and filed six charge sheets till 2017. His case became emblematic of the alleged nexus between crime and politics in Punjab. The Punjab Police had seized heroin, methamphetamine, pseudoephedrine, ephedrine, opium, intoxicating powder, and Rs 1.91 crore, besides foreign currency and arms from him. Despite being out on bail, Bholas legal troubles are far from over. His appeals in both the drug trafficking and money laundering cases are currently pending. Many FIRs have been registered against him in Patiala, Fatehgarh Sahib and SAS Nagar districts of the State. Earlier he was allowed to visit his native village, Raike Kalan in Bathinda district, for five hours to perform the last rites of his father, Balshinder Singh, on July 26 last year. Earlier, he had come out to perform the last rites for his mother for a brief period in June 2023. Once celebrated as the 'King Kong' of Indian wrestling, he won a silver medal at the 1991 Asian Wrestling Championship. His dominance on the mat earned him the prestigious Arjuna Award, and he was appointed as a DSP by the Punjab Government in recognition of his sporting excellence.
Six trainee recruit constables of Punjab police dismissed for failing dope test
CHANDIGARH: Six trainee recruit constables of Punjab Police who tested positive for drug consumption at the Punjab Police Recruit Training Centre at Jahankhelan in Hoshiarpur were relieved from the basic training with immediate effect. The incident has prompted many to question the impact of the 'Yudh Nashian Virudh' program started by the AAP-led Punjab government to eradicate drug menace from state. Sources said that the trainee recruits reportedly exhibited suspicious behavior and that it was decided to conduct their dope tests. They trainees were tested on May 21 at the Civil Hospital in Hoshiarpur. Of the six trainees relieved from training, three were from Patiala district, two from Tarn Taran, and one from Ludhiana. They were all from the same batch, No. 270. All six have been sent back to their respective districts and struck off from the training program, said an official on condition of anonymity. The official letter issued by Camp Adjutant (Outdoor) Kuldeep Singh of Punjab Police Recruit Training Centre at Jahankhelan in Hoshiarpur on May 24, stated that the behaviour of the trainees indicated possible use of odourless intoxicants thus prompting the decision to subject them to a drug screening. The letter was addressed to Ludhiana Police Commissioner and senior police officials of Tarn Taran and Patiala. The office of the civil surgeon confirmed the positive results to the training centre authorities following which immediate disciplinary action was taken. The letter further stated that the names of recruits have been struck off from the ongoing training batch, and they have been directed to return to their respective districts. The district police officials concerned have been instructed to monitor and address the drug-related issues of the dismissed recruits to prevent any negative influence on other personnel. The problem of the drug abuse is prevalent in the state. Last month, a constable of the state police who rose to fame on social media as Insta Queen, Amandeep Kaur, was arrested for drug possession. 17 grams of drugs were recovered from her Thar jeep during a search on Badal Road in Bathinda last month, after which she was dismissed from service. On Monday, the Punjab Vigilance Bureau arrested her in connection with a disproportionate assets case. She was taken into custody from the residence of Raftar Khan, the elder sister of singer Afsana Khan, at Badal village in Muktsar district. Sources said that during the investigation, they found Amandeep had amassed assets worth approximately Rs 31 lakh more than her known sources of income between 2018 and 2025. Interestingly, the Punjab Government had started war against drugs Yudh Nashian Virudh to eradicate drug menace from state, and till date, 13,449 drug smugglers have been arrested in last 85 days. The state government is claiming to enforce a three-pronged strategy Enforcement, Deaddiction and Prevention (EDP) to eradicate drugs from the state. A few years back an assistant sub-inspector and a head constable of Tarant Taran were dismissed from service after they tested positive in a dope test. Both were posted at Patti and the Tarn Taran civil hospital had conducted their dope test.
Punjab Vigilance Bureau arrests AAP MLA Arora on charges of corruption
CHANDIGARH: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA representing Jalandhar (Central) constituency, Raman Arora (54), was arrested on Friday by the Punjab Vigilance Bureau on charges of corruption. The legislator allegedly used former assistant town planner (ATP) of the municipal corporation Sukhdev Vashisht to issue bogus notices to seal buildings and extort money from the public. Vashisht was arrested last week. Arora is the third ruling party MLA to be arrested in a corruption case since AAP came to power in the state in 2022. The sleuths of the Punjab Vigilance Bureau raided the residence of Raman Arora and arrested him on charges of demanding money in exchange for performing official duties at the Municipal Corporation, as well as issuing extortion threats. The security of Arora was already withdrawn on May 12. Sources said that Aroras name cropped up during the interrogation of Vashisht who was arrested for demanding Rs 30,000 on May 14. Vashisht had Aroras patronage. Vashisht apparently threatened owners that he would seal buildings during inspections. He also reportedly claimed that he was not afraid of any potential transfer. During interrogation, Vashisht had reportedly admitted he issued 350 notices to stakeholders from April 2022 to March 2025. He was posted in Jalandhar Central zone one-and-a-half years ago. He served in Jalandhar West zone before that for four years, said an official on condition of anonymity. It is learnt that Vashisht was arrested following complaints from commercial unit owners and others. The complainants had alleged he had been delaying file approvals and extorting money from applicants. Sources said that the officials of the bureau has confiscated files pertaining to permissions given for change of land use, notices issued to commercial and residential units to pay their dues and authorization granted to residential colonies and development of commercial hubs in Jalandhar Central and West assembly constituencies in the past two years. Arora has faced multiple complaints accusing him of accepting bribes from the public. Arora is the third AAP MLA to be arrested by the vigilance bureau in the last three years on corruption charges. His arrest comes exactly three years after the VB arrested former health minister and Mansa MLA Dr Vijay Singla for corruption on May 24, 2022 and then Bathinda Rural AAP MLAAmit Rattan Kotfatta in a corruption case on February 23, 2023. Congress MLA from Bholath, Sukhpal Singh Khaira termed it a latant eyewash and a political gimmick orchestrated by the Mann-led AAP government to mislead the public ahead of the Ludhiana West by-election. Khaira drew parallels to the arrest of former AAP Minister Dr Vijay Singla prior to the Sangrur Lok Sabha by-election in 2022, pointing out that despite serious corruption charges, no charge sheet was filed against Singla. Singla continues to enjoy the full patronage of AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal and the party, proving that such arrests are mere stunts to create a false narrative of accountability, Khaira alleged. Khaira asserted that if a genuine and impartial inquiry were conducted into the activities of AAP MLAs, most of them would have to be arrested, as they are neck-deep in corruption. He accused the Mann government of shielding its leaders while projecting a facade of being anti-corruption to gain electoral mileage. The arrest of Raman Arora is a repeat of the same script played out before the Sangrur by-election. The AAP government is desperate to divert attention from its failures and rampant corruption within its ranks, Khaira alleged.
CHANDIGARH: Around 50 people from various parts of Punjab are under the police scanner as their antecedents are being verified for suspected links to the arrested individuals. Meanwhile, two more individuals from Gurdaspur have been arrested by Punjab Police for allegedly engaging in espionage for Pakistan, bringing the total number of arrests in the past three weeks to eight. Sources revealed that the two individuals, Sukhpreet Singh of Adiyan village and Karanbir Singh of Chandu Wadala, were arrested from Gurdaspur. Police recovered three mobile phones and eight live cartridges of .30 bore from their possession. Preliminary investigations confirmed both the accused were in direct contact with operatives of Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and had transmitted sensitive information concerning the Indian Armed Forces. A police official, on condition of anonymity, stated that these 50 individuals currently under scrutiny have not been detained. Most of these individuals who have been questioned had claimed innocence about the secret work of the alleged spies but would only get a clean chit after thorough verification, said a source. The police have launched technical and human intelligence investigations to assess the nature of these individuals associations with the arrested suspects. All these individuals who were in contact with the people allegedly involved in espionage are being verified to dig deep into their activities, the source added. NIA, IB grill YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra for spying for Pakistan; travel details, transactions under scanner Earlier, on May 11, the Punjab Police had arrested a 31-year-old woman, Guzala, and her associate Yameen Mohammad from Malerkotla for allegedly aiding a Pakistani official posted at the High Commission in Delhi. Police said the two were part of a broader espionage network operating in the region. According to officials, Guzala had met Ehsan-ur-Rahim alias Danish at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi and became his informant, allegedly sharing details about army activities in exchange for money. Danish instructed Yameen, a passport and visa agent, to transfer funds to Guzala. She reportedly received 10,000 from Yameen and 20,000 directly from Danish. On May 12, Neeraj Kumar, a 28-year-old salesman from Pathankot, was arrested for allegedly issuing SIM cards to unauthorised individuals using fraudulent documentation. The case came to light after Mohit Kumar of Shahpurkandi filed a complaint stating that he had purchased a SIM card from Neeraj in 2020, but later discovered that another SIM had been issued on his documents without his consent. During investigation, it was revealed that the unauthorised SIM card had been active in Pakistan before being deactivated. On May 13, Raqeeb Khan from Roorkee in Uttarakhand, who had been working as a tailor in a shop inside Bathinda Cantonment for the past two years, was arrested for allegedly spying for the neighbouring country. Cantonment officials grew suspicious of his activities and reported him to the police. His phone has been seized and sent for forensic examination. He lived within the shop premises inside the cantonment area. Odisha police question YouTuber Priyanka Senapati over links with spy Jyoti Malhotra During interrogation, Raqeeb reportedly said that he had received calls and voice messages from Pakistani numbers in January this year but claimed he did not engage with them. He also admitted to possessing military documents left behind by Army personnel at his shop. Officials disclosed that Raqeeb was the second civilian linked to espionage from that location, the first being Sunil Kumar, a cobbler and native of Samastipur, Bihar. He was arrested on April 29. Kumar had been working at the Bathinda Cantonment since 2017 and had lived in Dhobiana Basti for over a decade. His brother and uncle are also cobblers in the same area. Kumars bank statement and property details are being analysed, and his mobile phone has also been sent for forensic analysis. The report is awaited, said a police official. On May 3, two men, Palak Sher Masih and Suraj Masih, were arrested in Amritsar for allegedly photographing and sharing sensitive details of army cantonments and airbases. They were allegedly in contact with ISI through Harpreet Singh alias Pittu alias Happy, an inmate at Amritsar Central Jail. Police believe the duo had direct links with Pakistani intelligence operatives. Sources confirmed that all of the arrested individuals were allegedly in constant contact with the ISI and passed information to the enemy, including details about troop movements and key strategic locations in Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu and Kashmir.
This Uri family survived 11 Pakistani shells, but lost their house and livelihood
Four months ago, Naseem Khan and his brother Zubair, residents of Uri, purchased 35 expensive Beetal goats from Bathinda in Punjab and Hanumangarh in Rajasthan helped by a bank loan of Rs 9 lakh. The brothers, who work as labourers, had started earning a good income by selling goat milk. To manage their household more effectively, they decided that one of them would focus full-time on the milk business. However, their dreams were shattered on May 7 when shelling from across the border destroyed their home. The nearby barn was also hit, killing all the goats. The shelling came in response to Operation Sindoor, a counter-terrorism offensive launched by India on the same day targeting terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The shelling started at 2am, recalled Naseem. When we realised the shells were hitting our neighbourhood, we went to the bunker for safety, he said. Naseems joint family has 32 members, including 11 children. Not everyone managed to escape. Naseems young niece and his father, Hamed Khan, remained trapped in the house, taking cover beneath a staircase. Amid the ongoing shelling, one of Naseems brothers braved the danger and rushed back to rescue them, only to find both unconscious. Hamed had sustained injuries to his back and leg, while the little girl was discovered under the rubble, suffering from a concussion. When one of the shells hit the side of the house, the wall collapsed inward and knocked her out, Naseem explained. Around 7am, when the shelling finally ceased, an ambulance arrived to transport the injured to the hospital. Concerned neighbours had called for help after witnessing shells strike the Khan residence. The entire family left with the ambulance. The family lives in Ramgai village which is 15 km away from the Indo-Pak border. The 80-120mm artillery shells fired from the other side of the border cover a range of 30-40 km. Hence, Naseem's village along with many other villages in the bordering district of Baramulla bore the brunt of the retaliation. A week later, Naseem and his brother returned to assess the damage. The sight of their shattered home moved them to tears. I dont want to live here anymore. Theres fear everywhere, he said. When you grow up in a house from childhood, it carries all your dreams. Now, its all gone. For the past week, the Khan family has been living with friends and relatives in Baramulla town. Naseems father and niece are still in the hospital but their condition is stable now. When asked why they did not go to the camps set up by the government, he said, Children wont be able to stay. At home, there are 30 people together. But there, it would be in the hundreds. The shelling left the children traumatised. If we shut the door or the window, or there is strong wind blowing, they would start screaming. If there is any noise outside, they will start screaming. One of the kids had to be taken to the hospital that very morning for his trauma. He was non-responsive, frozen with an expression of horror on his face. Even we (adults) are scared. Still we are thankful that we are alive, thats the big thing, he said. It truly was a lucky escape considering Naseems family was hit by at least 11 Pakistani shells that night. According to the latest media reports, at least 20 people were killed in the bordering villages by Pakistani shelling during the period of escalation post-Operation Sindoor. However, the government has not issued any official statement on casualties and livelihood losses. A portion of Naseems house was obliterated, reduced to dust and debris that blanketed everything. The kitchen floor was covered in huge chunks of wood and concrete. All the windows were shattered, and all the fabrics left in tatters. There was no object in the house not riddled by splinters from the shells. Holding an angular piece of wood, he said it was the main door of the house; a metallic box of junk was the family fridge; a shredded piece of black leather was his daughters school shoes. Holes also dotted the childrens school uniforms. Now we have to buy these things again, he said. His family in Baramulla is unaware of how bad the conditions are back home. The two brothers have not told them yet. Some of them have heart ailments, said Naseem. But both the brothers have to rebuild the house quickly. How long can friends and relatives keep us? But how will he manage? We built the house with our wages. Now, we dont have a house nor wages. I dont know what to say anymore, I feel I will tear up, Naseem said. Naseems family and hundreds of others hit hard by the shelling now pin their hopes on government support. The Centre, Jammu and Kashmir government and Punjab government have announced compensation for the families of the deceased, but not for those who lost their houses and livelihoods. But Naseem remains optimistic. We trust the government. Hope it will do something for us soon, he said.
CHANDIGARH: A widening espionage net has led to 10 arrests across Haryana and Punjab in just over two weeks, with the latest being Hisar-based YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra, who was held for allegedly spying for Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Sources said Jyoti Malhotra, who runs a YouTube channel called Travel with Jo , was arrested from the New Aggarwal Extension area in Hisar. She has 3.77 lakh subscribers on YouTube and 1.32 lakh followers on Instagram, and has also posted videos about her travel to Pakistan in March this year. The Hisar Police registered an FIR and produced her before a local court, which sent her to a five-day police remand. She has been booked under Sections 3 and 5 of the Official Secrets Act and Section 152 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) on the complaint of Sub-Inspector Bijender Singh at the Civil Lines Police Station. According to the FIR, Malhotra came into contact with Ehsan-ur-Rahim alias Danish, a staffer at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi. She visited Pakistan twice in 2023, and Danish allegedly acted as her handler, introducing her to ISI operatives and maintaining regular contact via encrypted platforms. She revealed that during her visit to Pakistan in 2023, she met Ali Ehwan, who arranged her stay and travel. Ehwan introduced her to Pakistani security and intelligence officials, including Shakir and Rana Shahbaz, the FIR stated. Hisar Police spokesperson Vikas Kumar confirmed her arrest, saying officials are questioning her for further details. Danish was declared persona non grata by the Indian government and expelled on May 13. According to sources, Arman, a resident of Nuh, was arrested by Haryana Police on Thursday based on secret inputs. He allegedly shared information with Danish, a staffer at the Pakistan High Commission. A case has been registered. Earlier, in a separate case, a 24-year-old youth, Nauman Ilahi from Kairana in Uttar Pradesh, who worked as a factory security guard, was arrested in Panipat for allegedly supplying sensitive information to ISI operatives. He was staying with his sister Zeenat and brother-in-law Irfan in Hali Colony, Panipat. On May 12, Devender Singh, 25, from the Guhla area in Haryana's Kaithal district, was arrested for uploading photos with weapons on social media. Singh, pursuing a masters degree in political science from a college in Punjab, had visited Nankana Sahib in Pakistan last year. During that visit, he allegedly came into contact with Pakistani intelligence officials and remained in touch after returning to India. A senior police officer claimed that Singh admitted to taking and sending photographs of the Patiala Cantonment from outside. On May 13, Raqeeb Khan of Roorkee, Uttarakhand, working as a tailor at a shop inside Bathinda Cantonment for two years, was arrested by Punjab Police for alleged espionage. Suspicious activity was reported by cantonment officials, and his phone has been sent for forensic analysis. He is the second civilian from the area to be linked to spying. On April 29, Sunil Kumar, a cobbler from Samastipur, Bihar, was arrested. He had been working in Bathinda Cantonment since 2017 and residing in Dhobiana Basti. His brother and uncle are also cobblers in the same area. Police are analysing his bank and property records, and his phone is under forensic examination. On May 11, Punjab Police arrested two individuals, a 31-year-old woman, Guzala and her associate, Yameen Mohammad from Malerkotla, for allegedly assisting a Pakistani official posted at the High Commission in Delhi. Police believe the two were part of a broader espionage network. Earlier, on May 3, two men, Palak Sher Masih and Suraj Masih, were arrested in Amritsar for allegedly taking photographs and sharing sensitive details of Army cantonments and airbases. They were reportedly in contact with ISI through Harpreet Singh alias Pittu alias Happy, an inmate at Amritsar Central Jail. Police sources say all nine individuals were allegedly in frequent contact with the ISI and actively passed sensitive information to Pakistani handlers.
Chandigarh Diary | Governor cancels Rajasthan visit amid tensions
The intensifying hostilities between India and Pakistan last week prompted Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria to change his travel plans and get into immediate action. According to sources privy to the development, Kataria contacted the Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendent of Police of border districts to assess the ongoing situation. Following this, the Governor convened an all-party meeting and organised a sarva dharma gathering at the Raj Bhawan on Saturday. Leaders from various political parties, including Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, were present. Leaders seek special package for Punjab In view of the challenging situation at Punjab border due to operations and counter-operations between India and Pakistan, leaders of all political parties have come together to demand a special package for the state. CM Bhagwant Mann stressed that the state is always the first to bear the brunt during wars and escalations. State Congress leader and LoP Partap Singh Bajwa also pressed for a package for the development of the six border districts. He urged the introduction of a robust economic stimulus package to foster long-term stability and growth in the areas. BJP state president Sunil Jakhar echoed the same during an all-party meeting. Locals gather around drone wreckage After being neutralised by Indias air defence system, remnants and debris from drones and a suspected missile were scattered across several villages in Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Tarn Taran, Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, Bathinda, and Ferozepur. This drew large crowds of people who were eager to see the debris. Social media flooded with videos of locals taking photos and making reels with the remnants, pointing out various parts. Many people discussed what to do with the debris, touching it out of curiosity. Some even attempted to take pieces home or considered selling them to scrap dealers. In response, CM Bhagwant Mann urged the public to stay away from debris. Harpreet Bajwa Our correspondent in Chandigarh hsbajwa73@gmail.com
MD, Directors among private players of companies booked for duping Rs. 2.46 cr
Jammu, May 13: Jammu Crime Branch on Tuesday booked Managing Director, Directors, partners of four private companies and others for duping Rs. 2.46 crores on different pretexts from the innocent people ofJammu. Senior Superintendent of Police Crime Jammu Benam Tosh said that four separate FIRs have been registered by the Crime Branch againstChandigarh, Bathinda (Punjab) [] The post MD, Directors among private players of companies booked for duping Rs. 2.46 cr appeared first on Northlines .
Pakistan ceasefire breach triggers blackouts, security measures in border areas of Punjab, Haryana
CHANDIGARH: Within hours of India and Pakistan declaring a ceasefire, the neighbouring country unilaterally broke the peace by indulging in shelling along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir. Following this, blackouts were re-imposed in several districts of Punjab, as well as in Ambala, Haryana, which houses a key air force base. Sources said complete blackouts were suddenly imposed as a precautionary measure in six border districts of PunjabAmritsar, Tarn Taran, Gurdaspur, Pathankot, Ferozepur, and Fazilkaafter local administrations were alerted about ceasefire violations by Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir. Blasts in Srinagar after ceasefire shock residents; all okay now, clarifies Centre Additional blackouts were also enforced in Moga, Sangrur, Patiala, Hoshiarpur, Muktsar, Barnala, and Bathinda. Street lights were switched off in many parts of the state. Ambala in Haryana also faced blackout due to its strategic air force base. Sources claimed that a drone was spotted in Fazilka and Pathankot districts. Earlier in the day, the district administrations of Sangrur, Rupnagar, and Fazilka had withdrawn blackout orders, while authorities in districts like Jalandhar, Kapurthala, and Patiala also cancelled restrictive orders. Local authorities in districts including Jalandhar, Pathankot, and Kapurthala had advised the closure of markets and commercial establishments and urged citizens to avoid large gatherings in the wake of the ongoing tension between India and Pakistan. India agrees to a ceasefire with Pakistan after call from across the border
Pakistan moving troops in forward areas, launched strikes at multiple locations: Indian govt
NEW DELHI: Pakistan's military is observed to be moving its troops to forward areas, India said on Saturday, terming it a provocative move as the two countries continued attacking each other's military facilities, dangerously escalating the ongoing conflict. The Pakistan military is observed to be moving their troops to border areas, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi said at a press briefing along with Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. Officials said that Pakistan has also deployed heavy weaponry to target both Indian military and civilian areas, adding that the Indian Armed Forces are fully prepared for any eventuality. Wing Commander Singh said India was committed to on-escalation provided that Pakistan reciprocates. The officials also stated that Pakistan has been carrying out escalatory actions, predominantly using heavy-calibre weapons, missiles, and fighter jets to target military sites along the Western front. They added that the attacks have also included cowardly strikes on civilian infrastructure, including schools as well as medical facilities in Srinagar, Avantipura and Udhampur, terming it a deploarable act. Around 400 drones used to target military bases, places of worship: Centre on Pakistani escalation Col Qureshi explained that the Pakistan military is using unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs), long-range weapons, and other heavy equipment, attempting to hit more than 26 locations across India along the International Border (IB) and Line of Control (LoC). The targets included airbases in Udhampur, Pathankot, Adhampur, and Nalia. Pakistan military has resorted to unprofessional actions, targeting civil airbases in Srinagar, Awantipur, and Jammu, as well as schools and civilian infrastructure in an irresponsible manner, she said. At the LoC and IB, their fighter jets attempted to intrude at over 26 locations. The Indian Armed Forces neutralised most of the attempts. However, there was some damage at air force stations in Udhampur, Pathankot, Bhuj, and Bathinda, Colonel Qureshi said. Pakistan used a high-speed missile to target the Punjab airbase at 1.40 am, she added. Wing Commander Singh confirmed that India targeted Pakistani military assets in a retaliatory action and rejected Islamabad's claims of briging down India's S-400 air defence system. In a swift and calibrated response, Indian Armed Forces carried out precision strikes only at identified military targets. Pakistan has also engaged in a continued misinformation campaign, claiming destruction of the Indian S-400 system and airfields at Suratgarh and Sirsa. India unequivocally rejects these false claims, she said. Pakistans military bases in Rafiqui, Murid, Chaklala, Rahim Yar Khan, Sukkur, and Chunian were targeted through air-launched precision ammunition and fighter jets. The radar site in Pasrur and the aviation base in Sialkot were also hit with precision strikes. India ensured minimal collateral damage during these actions. Sialkot base was also targeted with precision weapons, Wing Commander Singh said. Pakistans use of civil flights as shields was highlighted during the briefing, with officials accusing Islamabad of taking cover behind civilian aircrafts. It is a matter of concern that taking the cover of civilian aircraft taking off from Lahore, Pakistan misused international air routes. So that they can hide their activities. Such tactics compelled Indian air defence system to act with great patience while ensuring civilian security, Col Qureshi said. India hits three Pakistan airbases in retaliatory strikes Meanwhile, Foreign Secretary Misri reiterated Pakistans disinformation campaign, which falsely claimed the destruction of Indias S-400 system at Adhampur, the Brahmos Cruise Missile Base at Nagrota, and the Chandigarh Ordnance Depot. Wing Commander Singh also reported that at the Line of Control, drones and artillery are being used by the Pakistan Army to target areas such as Kupwara, Baramulla, Poonch, Rajouri, and Akhnoor. India has delivered a befitting response, causing significant damage to Pakistans military infrastructure, she said. Foreign Secretary Misri underscored that India does not wish to escalate the situation, provided Pakistan also behaves responsibly. Officials said Pakistans military continues to use multiple threat vectors, including long-range weapons, loitering munitions, and drones, to intrude into Indian airspace. They added that Pakistans air intrusion and harassment attacks targeted 26 locations along the LoC and IB, including Indian Air Force bases in Adhampur, Nalia, and Bhuj. Indias response has been swift and calibrated, with Pakistans technical infrastructure, command and control centres, radar positions in Chaklala, Rahim Yar Khan, Sukkur, Farkhor, and Sialkot being targeted with precision strikes, causing minimal collateral damage. Misri emphasised, We must not be misled by the tissue of lies being spread by Pakistan. Their consistent attempts to sow discord among communities in India continue to fail. He also confirmed that Additional Development Commissioner Rajkumar Thapa had been killed in a pakistani shelling in J&K's Rajouri on early Saturday morning. Terming Pakistans claims of Indian missiles targeting Shri Amritsar Sahib as ludicrous, Misri said, These attempts are doomed to fail. At the end of the briefing, Foreign Secretary Misri indicated that the situation remains fluid, adding, We are dealing with an evolving situation, and updates will follow.
Amid rising tension between India and Pakistan, the Ministry of External Affairs detailed Pakistan's aggression along the western border and LoC. In a joint press conference by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Defence, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi said that the attacks, spanning over 26 locations, attempted airspace infiltration from Srinagar to Naliya, using drones, long-range weapons, UCAVs, loitering ammunition, and fighter jets to target Indian military structures. Despite sustaining damage to airbases in Udhampur, Pathankot, Adampur, Bhuj, and Bathinda, and injuring personnel, Indian forces successfully retaliated, the MEA said. The use of high-speed missiles and unprofessional targeting of non-military areas like hospitals and schools were particularly condemned. While Pakistan continued striking, the Indian Army successfully neutralised attempted strikes on various locations across the country, preventing them from reaching their targets.
India Hits 8 Military Sites Across Border As Pakistan Targets Udhampur, Pathankot, Bathinda
Indias air defence success: A saga of decade-long toil
NEW DELHI: The surgical precision with which India destroyed terror camps in Pakistan and its occupied territories in Kashmir not only asserted the countrys status as one of the most forceful nations in counter-terror operations, but also exposed the vulnerabilities in Pakistans defence network. It took over a decade for India to strategically strengthen its air defence system and enhance its combat power by incorporating cutting-edge warfare technologies. Many experts believe the successful execution of Operation Sindoor has sent a clear and unequivocal message that India is no longer just capable of defending its skiesit now commands, dictates, and controls them, remarked a senior official. It was a loss of face for Pakistan after India avenged Pahalgam terror attack. In a move to reclaim its lost image and shore up receding spirits, Pakistan escalated the situation in the border areas by launching missile strikes on Indian military installations across Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan and Gujarat. However, every single missile was intercepted or neutralised. Despite the setback, Pakistan continued its reckless provocation by unleashing indiscriminate drone and missile attacks on the night of May 8 in several parts of India. Thanks to Indias elaborate and robust air defence system, none of these attacks reached their intended targets. Sources within the government said Indias swift, coordinated response showcased the formidable strength of its air defence ecosystempainstakingly developed over the past 11 years under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. According to information available in the publicly domain, a combination of technologiesincluding the Integrated Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Grid, S-400 Triumf Systems, Barak-8 missiles, Akash surface-to-air missiles, and DRDOs anti-drone Systemscame together seamlessly to form an aerial shield over India that held firm and thwarted every single attempt by the enemy to inflict damage on this side of the border. Amid continuous cross-border provocations, India did not limit itself to defence. It retaliated swiftly with precision, inflicting significant destruction on the Pakistani side. Under Operation Sindoor, the Indian Armed Forces demonstrated their sharpest and most accurate deep-strike capabilities, penetrating Pakistani territory and destroying a Chinese-supplied HQ-9 air defence unit in Lahore, as well as damaging vital radar infrastructure. Such preparedness is not the result of a single days effort. Since 2014, the Modi government has systematically strengthened Indias air defence architecture. Key acquisitions and developments include the Rs 35,000-crore deal for five S-400 Triumf squadronssigned in 2018. Three squadrons are now operational along the borders with China and Pakistan. The deployment of Barak-8 Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missiles (MR-SAM), part of a $2.5 billion deal signed in 2017 with Israel, now actively defends key bases such as Bathinda. There are also indigenous Akash missile batteries and DRDO-developed counter-drone systems that collectively form a robust shield against enemy manoeuvres. Indias Man-Portable Counter-Drone Systems (MPCDS), installed in 2024 to jam and disable hostile UAVs, have also significantly enhanced modern warfare capabilities. Notably, Operation Sindoor marked the combat debut of loitering munitionsso-called suicidal drones ordered in 2021 and manufactured domestically. These drones executed simultaneous, precision strikes across multiple sectors, catching Pakistans defences completely off guard. Along with all others, the Israeli-origin Harop dronesnow being produced in India, were deployed to target and destroy air defence infrastructure in Karachi and Lahore. These advanced systems were further complemented by the strategic use of Rafale fighter jets equipped with SCALP and HAMMER missiles, underlining Indias ability to conduct precision strikes with surgical efficiency. The Modi governments defence strategy has never been about showy, one-off actionsit has been focused on building a resilient, multi-layered ecosystem.
Centre extends closure of 24 airports for civilian flights till May 15
NEW DELHI: At least 24 airports in northern and western parts of the country, including Srinagar and Chandigarh, have been shut for civilian flights till May 15, sources said on Friday. Earlier, these airports were closed for civilian flights till May 10 in view of the military conflict between India and Pakistan. Airlines on Friday said that their flights have been cancelled due to the temporary closure of airports till May 15. The sources said at least 24 airports have been closed for civilian flights till 05:29 hours of May 15. The airports include Chandigarh, Srinagar, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Bhuntar, Kishengarh, Patiala, Shimla, Dharamsala, and Bathinda. Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Leh, Bikaner, Pathankot, Jammu, Jamnagar, and Bhuj are among the other airports that have been temporarily closed for civilian flights. Following a notification from aviation authorities on continued closure of multiple airports in India, Air India flights to and from the following stations -- Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Bhuj, Jamnagar and Rajkot -- are being cancelled till 0529 hrs IST on 15 May, the airline said in a post on X. Air India also said customers holding valid tickets for travel during this period will be offered a one-time waiver on rescheduling charges or a full refund for cancellations. In a post on X, IndiGo said in accordance with the latest directives from the relevant authorities, all flights to and from 10 destinations will remain cancelled until 0529 hours on May 15 due to temporary airport closures. The airports are Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, Dharamsala, Bikaner, Rajkot, Jodhpur and Kishangarh. These precautionary measures have been instituted with your safety and security as our highest priority, the airline said. The military conflict between India and Pakistan has intensified. Under Operation Sindoor, armed forces had carried out strikes on terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on Wednesday in retaliation against the Pahalgam terror attack that had killed at least 26 people last month.
Around 400 drones used to target military bases, places of worship: Centre on Pakistani escalation
India said on Friday that Pakistan violated its airspace on the night of 89 May, striking 36 sitesincluding military installations and places of worshipin a stark escalation of cross-border hostilities. Speaking at a Ministry of External Affairs briefing, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi said Pakistan used 300 to 400 drones to target India on the intervening night of Thursday and Friday. Around 300 to 400 drones were used (by Pakistan) to attempt infiltration at 36 locations... Forensic investigation of the wreckage of the drones is being done. Initial reports suggest that they are Turkish Asisguard Songar drones, she said. The Indian forces shot down the Pakistani drones. The drones and its debris are being analysed, she added. Officials said one Pakistani armed unmanned aerial vehicle had been sent to target Bathinda military station and that the attempt was foiled. They added that Indian armed forces had shot down the Pakistani drones using both kinetic and non-kinetic means. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that places of worship had also been targeted, terming it a ew low for Islamabad. Pakistani side targeted places of worship with a particular design... it is a new low even for Pakistan, he said. The Foreign Secretary added that Pakistani cross-border firing had hit a Christian missionary school in Poonch, killing two children. We do have some information about this extremely regrettable and condemnable incident. During heavy shelling across the Line of Control in the early morning of 7th May, a shell fired from Pakistan landed just behind the Christ School run by the Kamalites of the Mary Immaculate Congregation in Poonch. Tragically, the shell fired from Pakistan hit the home of two students of the Christ School, Misri said. Misri also criticised Pakistan for not closing its airspace and accused Islamabad of using civilian air traffic as a shield. Pakistan did not close its airspace and used civilian air traffic as a shield. Pakistani airlines were seen flying over Karachi and Lahore. There were heavy losses to the Pakistani army as India retaliated, he said. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh said the non-closure of Pakistans airspace posed a danger to unsuspecting civilian airliners, including international flights flying near the international border between India and Pakistan. The screenshot we showed displays the data from the Flight Radar 24 application during a high air defence alert situation in the Punjab sector. As you can see, the airspace on the Indian side is completely devoid of civil air traffic due to our declared closure. However, civil airlines continue to fly the route between Karachi and Lahore, she added. She also said the Indian Air Force had demonstrated considerable restraint in its response, ensuring the safety of international civil carriers. Notably, India on Thursday night swiftly thwarted Pakistans fresh attempts to strike military sites with drones and missilesincluding in Jammu, Udhampur and Pathankot, among other border areasafter foiling similar bids at 15 locations in the northern and western regions of the country, as tensions soared between the two nations amid fears of a wider conflict.
Debris resembling parts of missile found in Punjab
Debris resembling parts of a missile was found in a field in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, while metal parts of unidentified objects were discovered at two locations in Bathinda, sparking panic among locals. The incidents come after India successfully thwarted Pakistan's attempts to target military installations with drones and missiles across the country.
CHANDIGARH: Amid soaring tension between India and Pakistan, debris resembling parts of a missile was found in the fields near Kamahi Devi village in Hoshiarpur district. Such objects were found at three more places in Bathinda district of Punjab. The metal debris was found Thursday evening and appeared akin to a missile. Acting promptly, the villagers informed the police. The Indian Air Force (IAF) was also informed. Thereafter, the area was cordoned off. An IAF team arrived at the spot and conducted preliminary investigation before collecting the debris, sources said. Debris resembling that of missiles were also found near Bir Talab Basti number 4 area in Bathinda, at Gehri Baghi village in the district. Also, a house in Tungwali village sustained minor damage during the incident reported last night as the windows and door panes were shattered due to an explosion. A shed in the house was also damaged. The police reached the site early on Friday morning. The villagers said that such minor incidents are common in war-like situations. Local MLA Master Jagsir Singh who visited the area praised the courage of the villagers. Meanwhile on Friday morning the Chandigarh Administration sounded a fresh air raid siren, appealing to people to remain indoors. An air warning has been received from the air force station of a possible attack. Sirens are being sounded. All are advised to remain indoors and stay away from balconies, an official statement issued by the Chandigarh administration said. About an hour later, it said the siren for the alert was over. Uneasy calm in J&K as India-Pakistan tensions escalate, border residents move to safer places The people across the state especially border districts Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Ferozepur, Fazilka, Taran Taran and Pathankot had a tense night following complete blackout. Meanwhile, the SAS Nagar district administration on Friday began installing new air raid sirens with 30 requisitioned for Kharar and 20 for Zirakpur and Dera Bassi. The state government has allocated emergency funds to all the deputy commissioners across the state to address exigencies with the option to request additional funds as required in view of the prevailing situation. Also, the government has cancelled the leaves of all IAS and PCS officers in the state with immediate effect. In view of the prevailing situation and preparedness for the emergency response system, it has been decided that no officer shall proceed on any kind of leave or leave their station of posting without explicit approval of the Chief Secretary Punjab. All the leaves approved so far stand cancelled. Meticulous compliance may be ensured failing which suitable action under relevant rules shall be initiated, stated a letter issued by Punjab, secretary personnel, Gurpreet Kaur Sapra. The Punjab police has already cancelled the leave of its personnel. The Punjab Government has asked the Food Corporation of India (FCI) to immediately transfer the wheat that has been bought in the border districts of Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Gurdaspur, Pathankot, Ferozepur and Fazilka. A concerted effort has been put in to speed up the lifting of wheat from the six border districts of the state. Sources said that the government has informed the FCI officials to check the destination where the wheat needs to be sent and also check the availability of rakes for transporting the wheat. As on date, on an average about 15 rail rakes of wheat a day is moved from Punjab to the recipient states. Rajasthan remains on edge after drone attacks; blackout to be enforced in all border districts Meanwhile the Punjab Police has deployed specialized forces, including SOG Hits, SSG, and Ghatak teams, accompanied by bulletproof vehicles. Also in coordination with the BSF, 73 well-equipped nakas have been set-up at strategic points, enhancing the second line of defence. The Village Defence Committees (VDCs) have also been formed throughout the border areas to support local security measures. Apart from this, 14 additional companies of Punjab Armed Police have been deployed in border districts and state-level control rooms along with district-level control rooms have been established to ensure seamless communication and coordination among all security forces, said sources. In the neighboring Haryana, Deputy Commissioner of Ambala has ordered a complete blackout from 8 pm till 6 am. The orders in this regard were issued by District Magistrate Ajay Singh Tomer. The administration also banned the use of inverters or generators for outdoor lighting. In view of the prevailing circumstances and intelligence inputs indicating a potential air strike threat from Pakistan, it is imperative to ensure complete blackout during the night hours for public safety and strategic interests. And whereas, use of inverter, generator and any other power backup used for outdoor lights, bill board, street lights etc may invite any terror/drone attack in District Ambala, the order said. The order was issued under Section 163 (Power to issue order in urgent cases of nuisance or apprehended danger) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. IPL suspended for one week amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan
'Bomb-like' object recovered in Jaisalmer's Kishanghat area after Thursday's cross-border firing
JAIPUR: A bomb-like object was found in the Kishanghat area of Rajasthan's Jaisalmer district on Friday morning, prompting swift action by the local police and air force. According to the police, the object was found near a nursery in the colony of the Jogis, located in front of Kishanghat under the Kotwali police station area. Kotwali SHO Prem Daan said it seems to be a bomb-like object. Experts from the army are on their way Kishanghat to defuse it. It it currently not known if it is live or destroyed, he said. VIDEO | Rajasthan: Debris of unidentified object found in Jaisalmer's Kishan Ghat area. Security personnel at the spot. More details awaited. (Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvqRQz ) #Rajasthan pic.twitter.com/aGVD2gBSIt Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 9, 2025 Arjun Nath, a local, spotted the object and immediately informed Kishanghat Sarpanch representative Kalyan Ram, who then alerted authorities. Following this, teams from the local police and the Indian Air Force arrived at the scene, they said. The area has been cordoned off as a precautionary measure and further investigation is underway. The object resembled parts of a drone that was launched by Pakistan on Jaisalmer on Thursday night around 10.30 pm. However, official confirmation is awaited. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and follow safety instructions as security measures have been intensified in the region. Notably, on Thursday night India swiftly thwarted Pakistan's fresh attempts to strike military sites with drones and missiles, including in Jammu, Pathankot and Udhampur, after foiling its attempts to target military installations in 15 cities in the northern and western parts of the country. According to the defence ministry, the Pakistani military on Thursday night attempted to target Awantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bathinda, Chandigarh, Nal, Phalodi, Uttarlai and Bhuj.
Air raid sirens in Chandigarh, residents urged to stay indoors; Mohali, Patiala issue alerts
The Chandigarh administration sounded an air raid siren on Friday, urging residents to stay indoors, as tensions between India and Pakistan escalated. The alert was lifted about an hour later. An air warning has been received from the air force station of a possible attack. Sirens are being sounded. All are advised to remain indoors and stay away from balconies, the administration said in an official statement. *ALERT* An Air warning has been received from Air force station of possible attack. Sirens are being sounded. All are advised to remain indoors and away from balconies. DC Chandigarh Chandigarh Admn (@chandigarh_admn) May 9, 2025 Chandigarh serves as the shared capital of Punjab and Haryana. Authorities in neighbouring districts also took precautionary measures. The Panchkula district administration sounded a similar siren and advised people to remain indoors. Meanwhile, officials in Punjab's Mohali district, which borders Chandigarh, issued an alert for nearby residents. There is an alert in some areas of Chandigarh. We are advising Mohali residents in the bordering sectors to remain indoors and away from windows and glass panes, the Mohali administration said in a message. There is an alert in some areas of UT Chandigarh. We are advising Mohali residents in bordering sectors as well to remain indoors and away from windows and glass panes. Specifically sectors 45-47. Mohali Administration DC Mohali (@dcmohali) May 9, 2025 Further south, the Patiala district administration also urged caution. Please avoid stepping out unless it is absolutely necessary. All educational institutions in the district are closed until further notice. Residents are strongly advised to stay indoors and away from balconies, rooftops, and open areas, its advisory stated, asking the public to contact the control room in case of an emergency. A similar air siren was sounded in Chandigarh on Thursday night as India swiftly thwarted Pakistan's fresh attempts to strike military sites with drones and missiles, including in Jammu, Pathankot and Udhampur, after foiling its attempts to target military installations in 15 cities in the northern and western parts of the country. According to the defence ministry, the Pakistani military on Thursday night attempted to target Awantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bathinda, Chandigarh, Nal, Phalodi, Uttarlai and Bhuj. The renewed attempts by the Pakistani forces came after the Indian armed forces on Wednesday carried out precise missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Pakistan under 'Operation Sindoor' in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. Punjab orders closure of all schools, colleges for next three days amid rising border tensions
Debris From Pakistani Projectiles Intercepted By India Found In Bathinda, Hoshiarpur And Jaisalmer
The discovery of the debris comes after a night of reported explosions and heightened security measures in these border states.
Drones, blackouts, and sirens: People spend anxious night in border Punjab districts
Residents across border districts in Punjab including Amritsar, Pathankot, and Ferozepur, spent a tense night on Thursday as authorities enforced a complete blackout in response to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. Blackouts were also imposed in Jalandhar, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, and other regions, with power supply cut off in Chandigarh, the shared capital of Punjab and Haryana for about two hours until midnight. The precautionary measures followed a fresh wave of attempted attacks by Pakistan on Thursday night. According to the Ministry of Defence, Pakistan launched a coordinated offensive using drones and missiles to target military sites in multiple Indian cities, including Jammu, Pathankot, and Udhampur. The Indian armed forces swiftly intercepted the threats, successfully thwarting the strikes. The targeted locations included 15 cities across northern and western India, among them Srinagar, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bathinda, Chandigarh, Nal, Phalodi, Uttarlai, and Bhuj. These attempted strikes came just a day after the Indian military launched Operation Sindoor , a series of precision missile attacks on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). This operation was in retaliation for the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam. In Pathankot, some residents reported hearing explosion-like sounds on Thursday night, although no official confirmation was issued. Air raid sirens were activated around 8:30 p.m., and a complete blackout was enforced. By Friday morning, however, the situation remained calm. Similar scenes played out in other border districts like Amritsar and Ferozepur, where residents expressed initial anxiety but praised the armed forces for their quick and effective response. In Chandigarh, despite the blackout and tense atmosphere, daily life began returning to normal on Friday. Baldev Chand, an elderly local resident, resumed his morning walk, saying, There were some anxious moments last night, but the way our forces handled the situation makes us feel secure. Authorities across Punjab urged residents to stay indoors, switch off lights, and follow blackout protocols. Pathankot Deputy Commissioner Aditya Uppal emphasized the importance of remaining calm and vigilant. In addition to the blackout in major cities, power cuts were enforced in Rupnagar, Fazilka, Kapurthala, Ludhiana, Sangrur, Bathinda, Patiala, and Panchkula in Haryana as precautionary steps to ensure public safety. In light of the heightened security situation, the Punjab government has ordered the closure of all schools and educational institutions for the next three days. Chandigarh authorities have also shut all schools until Saturday. (With input from PTI) Tensions soar in Jammu & Kashmir after Pak's failed drone attack, heavy shelling: Woman killed
Explained: Operation Sindoor aftermath and how it has impacted flights in India
Following Operation Sindoor and heightened security concerns, India's air travel sector has been hit. The closure of 30 airports across several states has left hundreds of flights cancelled and thousands of travellers stranded or scrambling for alternatives. Here's a breakdown of the current situation. What triggered the disruption? The disruption stems from the closure of operations at several civilian airports many of which double as military airfields after India conducted precision strikes in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir in the wee hours of May 7. Operation Sindoor: Nine strikes, 25 minutes of chaos for Pakistan Fearing potential retaliation post these strikes, the Indian government suspended operations at critical airports in the North, Northwest, and Central regions of the country. Which airports are affected? The closure impacts airports in Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, and the Delhi NCR region. Notable airports shut down include: J&K & Ladakh : Leh, Thoise, Srinagar, Jammu Punjab : Amritsar, Pathankot, Ludhiana, Patiala, Bathinda, Halwara, Chandigarh. Himachal Pradesh : Dharamshala, Shimla, Bhuntar, Gaggal Rajasthan : Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Kishangarh, Bikaner Gujarat : Bhuj, Jamnagar, Rajkot, Porbandar, Mundra, Kandla, Keshod Others : Hindon (Delhi NCR), Gwalior (Madhya Pradesh) Airlines expect the disruption to last at least until 5:29 AM on May 10, though airport sources hint it may continue longer. How are airlines responding? Major airlines have rolled out large-scale cancellations and advisories: IndiGo has suspended 165 daily flights, including those from Amritsar, Bikaner, Chandigarh, Gwalior, Jammu, Jodhpur, Leh, and Srinagar. Air India has cancelled flights to and from Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot. SpiceJet has stopped operations in Leh, Srinagar, Jammu, Dharamshala, Kandla, and Amritsar. Akasa Air has cancelled flights from Srinagar. Passengers holding tickets for these routes have been offered full refunds. Impact on flyers Travellers are experiencing severe stress due to abrupt cancellations, particularly those with connecting flights. Entire itineraries are being disrupted when the primary leg of the journey is cancelled, as seen in multiple cases. R Sushmita, travelling from Himachal to Nagpur via Chandigarh and Delhi, had to reroute by train to Delhi due to a cancelled Air India flight. Fortunately, Air India issued a fresh ticket at no extra cost. Piyush Sawarkar, stuck in Leh with his family, tweeted for help after his Indigo flight to Mumbai was cancelled. Like many others, he received a standard airline response requesting his PNR via direct message. Social media platforms of airlines have been flooded with similar distress calls, and many passengers are still awaiting clarity and rebooking options. A necessary safety measure According to Captain CS Randhawa, President of the Federation of Indian Pilots Association, while the inconvenience is considerable, the move was necessary from a national security perspective. The government wants flyers to stay safe. Closure of air force bases wont impact the public directly since civilian aircraft dont usually operate there, he said. However, international carriers are significantly affected. To avoid Pakistani airspace, flights from the Gulf to Delhi are forced to take detours. For instance, British Airways, Air France, and KLM from Delhi are heading towards Mumbai and then rerouting through Turkey, with longer flight paths and additional operational costs, he explained. Whats next? The situation remains fluid. Airlines and airport authorities are monitoring developments, but flyers should be prepared for ongoing disruptions beyond May 10. Travellers are advised to stay updated through official airline channels and plan alternate routes where possible.
IAF declines to comment on crash reports
An unidentified aircraft crashed near Aklian Kalan village in Bathinda, Punjab, resulting in the death of a civilian and injuries to ten others who approached the wreckage site. The incident occurred around 1:30 am, prompting a response from authorities who collected debris from the area, located approximately 20km from Bhisiana airbase. The IAF has not yet commented on the incident.
One dead, nine injured after aircraft crash in Punjab village
Crash site in Bathinda district cordoned off; authorities yet to confirm details of unidentified aircraft
SAD chief Badal condemns Pakistan forces''attack' on gurdwara in Poonch during cross-border shelling
CHANDIGARH: Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal on Wednesday strongly condemned the attack on a gurdwara in Poonch by Pakistan forces during cross-border shelling that led to the death of three Sikhs. At least 12 people, including four children, were killed and 57 others injured as the Pakistan Army carried out heavy artillery and mortar shelling on forward villages along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday. The intense shelling from across the border started shortly after Indian armed forces carried out missile attacks on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir to avenge the April 22 terror attack in south Kashmir's Pahalgam that had left 26 civilians dead. The worst-hit in the Pakistani shelling was Poonch district which accounted for all the civilian deaths, the officials said, adding 42 people were also injured and the condition of some of them was stated to be serious. Among the dead were Amarjeet Singh, Amrik Singh and Ranjit Singh in Poonch. In a post on X, SAD chief Badal said, Strongly condemn the inhuman attack by Pakistani forces on the sacred Central Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Poonch, in which three innocent Gursikhs, including Bhai Amrik Singh Ji (a raagi Singh), Bhai Amarjeet Singh and Bhai Ranjit Singh lost their lives. He said his party expresses complete solidarity with the families of the deceased and prays for peace for the departed and courage for their friends and loved ones. We demand that the martyrs be honoured for their sacrifice and that the bereaved families receive adequate compensation to support them in their time of grief. The Sikhs have always been, and will continue to be, the sword arm of the country. We stand like a rock with our armed forces. Although the Shiromani Akali Dal and our country stand for peace, if our honour is challenged by the enemy, we need no reminder to fulfil our patriotic duties, said Badal. Bathinda MP and former union minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal too condemned the incident. Pained to learn about the tragic demise of Bhai Amrik Singh Raagi, ex-serviceman Amarjeet Singh and shopkeeper Ranjit Singh in the course of shelling by Pakistan in Poonch. Also learnt that a gurdwara has been targeted & damaged. I condemn this cowardly action. I'm sure GOI will avenge this dastardly attack & the three martyrdoms will not go in vain, she said in a post on X. Union Minister and BJP leader Ravneet Singh Bittu and Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee chief Harjinder Singh Dhami also condemned the incident. Deeply condemn the cowardly attack by Pakistani forces on the sacred Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib, Poonch. The martyrdom of Bhai Amrik Singh Ji, Bhai Amarjeet Singh Ji & Bhai Ranjit Singh Ji is a tragic loss. India will not tolerate such barbarity, said Bittu in a post on X.
An unidentified plane crashed in Bathinda killing one person and injuring 9 others, sources said on Wednesday.
1 killed, 9 injured as unidentified plane crashes in Bathinda
Chandigarh, May 7: An unidentified plane crashed in Bathinda killing one person and injuring 9 others, sources said on Wednesday. Sources said the plane crashed around past midnight into wheat fields of Akilan Kalan village of the district in which a farm labourer, originally from Charkhi Dadri of Haryana, was killed and nine [] The post 1 killed, 9 injured as unidentified plane crashes in Bathinda appeared first on Northlines .
One killed, nine injured as unidentified aircraft crashes in village near Punjab's Bathinda
CHANDIGARH: One civilian killed and nine others injured as an unidentified aircraft caught fire and crashed in Aklian Kalan village of Bathinda district in Punjab. The deceased has been identified as Govind a farm labourer hailing from Charkhi Dadri in Haryana, sources said. The aircraft crashed around 2 am in harvested wheat fields, approximately 500 meters from the nearest residential area. There was no information about the pilot till this report was filed. After the crash, public approached the burning wreckage and discovered Govind and the other injured. As per eyewitnesses, several farm labourers were at the local grain market late Tuesday night when they noticed an aircraft flying unusually low. The eyewitnesses further added that they woke up to the loud sound of a crashing aircraft, which immediately caught fire. As aircraft was spotted which was in flames people rushed to rescue the pilots. As the villagers were rushing towards the plane, it exploded and several of them were hurt, said a local. Defence personnel and police teams cordoned off the crash site and fire tenders plunged into action at the scene. The district administration is tight-lipped about the identity of the plane stating that any comment on the incident will be issued only by the defence authorities. Senior officials of the district administration reached the crash site and also police have been stationed at the hospital. The injured Govind was immediately rushed to the public health centre in Goniana, where he was declared dead on arrival. While the other injured were taken to Shaheed Bhai Mani Singh Civil Hospital, from where at least one was referred to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bathinda. Meanwhile all schools will remain closed in five border districts of Ferozepur, Fazilka, Gurdaspur, Amritsar and Pathankot of the state in the wake of tension between India and Pakistan. The Ferozepur Deputy Commissioner had issued an order that all schools in the district will remain closed on Wednesday. In Pathankot, all schools will remain shut for 72 hours. Meanwhile the flight operations from Chandigarh, Amritsar and Dharamsala airports suspended. Further, Air India announced that all flights to and from Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Chandigarh, Jamnagar and Rajkot have been cancelled for May 7 till 12 noon, pending updates from authorities. Ministry of Home Affairs, bureau of immigration closes Kartarpur Corridor till further orders. 150 pilgrims , who had gathered at the Integrated check post today morning , were asked to return home after being made to wait for 90 minutes. In retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack , Indian armed forces early Wednesday carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, including the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba's base in Muridke. The military strikes were carried out under 'Operation Sindoor', two weeks after the massacre of 26 civilians at Pahalgam of Jammu and Kashmir.
Punjab all set for mock drills in 20 towns as nation ramps up defence preparedness
CHANDIGARH: Amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, civil defence mock drills will be held at 20 places in Punjab, besides several locations in Haryana and the Union Territory of Chandigarh on Wednesday, as per instructions issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). In Punjab, the mock drills will be held in Amritsar, Bathinda, Ferozepur, Gurdaspur, Batala, Hoshiarpur, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Adampur, Halwara, Patiala, Pathankot, Barnala, Mohali, Faridkot, Kotkapura, Rupnagar, Bhakra Nangal, Sangrur and Abohar. Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said, The civil defence teams and Punjab Police, along with the Home Ministry, will conduct mock drills tomorrow, adding that the state government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, is closely monitoring the exercise to ensure the safety of citizens. Preparations are almost complete for conducting the mock drills. The objective of the drills is to create awareness among the public and take necessary precautions in the event of any attack, he added. Cheema said the directions of the Home Ministry will be followed during the mock drills. Sources said that public announcements will be made before the drills. As per the guidelines issued by MHA, the drills will include activation of air raid warning sirens, training of civilians, students and others in civil defence procedures to protect themselves in the event of a hostile attack, implementation of crash blackout measures, early camouflaging of vital plants and installations, updating and rehearsing of evacuation plans. The ministry had asked several states to conduct mock drills on May 7 for effective civil defence. In the meeting today, the issue of sirens was raised as for many years these have not been tested thus many might be dysfunctional for that we need to first check the working of all the civil and defence siren systems and these will be tested. Thus people should not panic, said a senior functionary who took part in the meeting. MHA conducts key review meeting ahead of massive civil defence mock drill, identifies 19 'top priority' sites Meanwhile, Ferozepur Deputy Commissioner Deepshikha Sharma said as part of the mock drill preparations, six civil defence sirens will be sounded in the city and the Ferozepur Cantonment area from 7 to 7.15 pm on Tuesday. These sirens will be sounded for the preparation of the May 7 mock drill, she said, adding that there was no need to worry. A senior police official in Ferozepur said a blackout rehearsal will be carried out from 9 to 9.30 pm on Wednesday and police patrolling teams will be deployed. In Haryana too, mock drills will be conducted at many places, including Ambala, Faridabad, Gurugram, Hisar, Panchkula, Panipat and Rohtak. In a letter to the chief secretaries of all states and administrators of Union Territories, the MHA stated that the measures to be taken during the mock drills include the operationalisation of air-raid warning sirens, training civilians on civil-defence aspects to protect themselves in the event of a hostile attack and cleaning bunkers and trenches. The other measures are provisions for crash-blackout measures, early camouflaging of vital plants and installations and updating and rehearsing evacuation plans. The mock drills also include the operationalisation of hotline and radio-communication links with the Indian Air Force (IAF), testing the functionality of control rooms and shadow control rooms. It said the active participation of the district controllers, various district authorities, civil-defence wardens, volunteers, home guards (active and reservists volunteers), National Cadet Corps (NCC), National Service Scheme (NSS), Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS), college and school students is envisaged in the exercise. Civil defence volunteers rehearse emergency response in Lucknow ahead of nationwide mock drill
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.
