facebook

Chandigarh

...

Amit Shah hails security personnel for restoring peace in J&K

New Delhi, Oct 21:Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah on Wednesday hailed the security personnel for restoring peace in Jammu and Kashmir. Paying tribute to the police personnel, who were killed in the line of duty, at the National Police Memorial in New Delhi on the occasion of Police Commemoration Day, Shah said, Significant success has been achieved in curbing terrorism in Kashmir. Addressing the ceremony, he said, We have assembled at the National Police Memorial to pay homage to the brave police personnel who made the supreme sacrifice in service of the nation from independence to the present day. The Home Minister said that nearly eight decades after independence, India stands today in a position of honour and respect in the world. The foundation of this achievement lies in the sacrifices of our brave personnel. No one can even imagine where we would stand today if these personnel had not made the supreme sacrifice to safeguard the countrys internal security and protect its borders, he said. Shah said that 2026 was an extremely significant year for the Indian police. On March 31, 2026, the country achieved freedom from Naxalism, which had plagued India for decades. From 1981 to March 2026, the country endured numerous hardships due to Naxalism. During this period, many brave security personnel and innocent civilians lost their lives. More than 3600 security personnel were killed, and nearly 13,700 innocent civilians also lost their lives, he said. The Home Minister said he wanted to convey to the families of the slain personnel that as the country moves forward on the path of development after overcoming this five-decade-old problem, the sacrifices of these 3600 personnel form the foundation of this progress. Addressing the families of the slain security personnel, he said that while their loss could never be compensated, the entire nation of 1.4 billion citizens remains grateful for the dedication and sacrifice of their families. Recalling the history of Police Commemoration Day, Shah said that on October 21, 1959, in the remote and inhospitable Hot Springs region of Ladakh, 10 CRPF personnel were killed while resisting an attack by Chinese troops. A study of the Hot Springs incident makes it clear that when the battle was decided in the high-altitude mountains, the outcome was almost certain. Yet, these immortal heroes remained steadfast in their resolve that not even an inch of the countrys land should fall into foreign hands, making the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. Since then, October 21 has been observed every year as Police Commemoration Day, he said. The Home Minister said that the National Police Memorial, where they were gathered, was inaugurated in 2018 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in honour of police personnel who had lost lives in the line of duty. The objective behind establishing the memorial was to inspire future generations of police personnel to remain committed to their responsibilities and be prepared to make the supreme sacrifice while performing their duties, he said. Shah said that the memorial had also become a place of reverence for citizens from across the country. Grateful citizens visit the site to pay tribute to 36,852 police personnel and express the nation's gratitude for their service and sacrifice, he said. The Home Minister said that among all government services, police service was one of the most challenging. Every citizen in the country celebrates festivals such as Raksha Bandhan, Holi, Diwali, and Eid, but police personnel often have no holidays to celebrate these occasions, he said. Shah said that while people celebrate festivals with their families, police personnel remain on duty, safeguarding internal security, managing traffic and ensuring public safety. They devote the prime years of ones life to the nation while staying away from ones family is a great service to the country, he said. The Home Minister said that there were numerous examples across the country of police personnel demonstrating extraordinary patience, restraint, discipline, courage, and dedication, thereby strengthening the nations internal security. He said that police personnel constitute both the first and the last line of defence for internal security. Shah expressed his special gratitude to all personnel of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) deployed along the borders and entrusted with security responsibilities within the country. Staying away from their families, these personnel remain vigilant and strengthen the nations internal security on every occasion, whether during elections, festivals, protests or border security duties. They remain constantly on duty to ensure the smooth functioning of the country. Whether it is safeguarding democracy or ensuring the smooth conduct of democratic processes, it is impossible to imagine these tasks being accomplished without the Central Armed Police Forces, he said. The Home Minister said that India had succeeded in eliminating electoral violence in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, but electoral violence had continued in West Bengal for a long time. He said that during the recently concluded West Bengal Assembly elections, security personnel achieved a significant success by ensuring that the elections were completed without a single fatality. In doing so, the Central Armed Police Forces had established a new benchmark, Shah said. He said that the entire country now recognises that electoral violence had been brought to an end in the nation. The Home Minister said that over the past few years, the country had faced several challenges, three of which had persisted for decades. He said that peace had now been established in all three major hotspots Kashmir, the North-East, and the areas affected by Left-Wing Extremism. An environment conducive to development has emerged in these regions, and they are now ready to compete with the rest of the country in terms of development, Shah said. Following several agreements and the surrender of arms by thousands of people, the entire North-East has moved forward on the path of peace. He said that police and Central Armed Police Forces personnel had achieved a major breakthrough in completely eliminating the five-decade-old Naxal problem, which had spread across several states. The Home Minister specifically thanked the CRPF and its CoBRA Battalion for their contribution to the elimination of Naxalism and praised the bravery of the Chhattisgarh Police. He said that the country had not yet become completely free of problems and that several challenges remain. Shah said that the Union Ministry of Home Affairs had set a target to free the country from the drug menace by December 31, 2029, through a concerted fight against drugs over the remaining part of 2026 and the next three years 2027, 2028 and 2029. He described this as a very important goal for the nation. The Home Minister said that drug abuse and trafficking undermine the future of coming generations, place an unnecessary burden on the economy, and often provide financial support to organisations with anti-national intentions. He called upon police forces across the country to wholeheartedly join the efforts to implement the roadmap for a Nasha Mukt Bharat, formulated under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and work towards safeguarding future generations. On this occasion, Shah flagged off a nationwide motorcycle rally organised around the message 'Fight against Drugs.' It included around 90 riders from various states and Union Territories (Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi), Central Armed Police Forces (CRPF, CISF, BSF, SSB, ITBP and NSG), and certain central police organisations (RPF, NDRF and NIA). The rally is part of a nationwide campaign organised around the message 'Fight against Drugs', in which motorcycle riders from all states, Union Territories and Central Forces across the country will reach Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, to participate in the Ekta Parade-2026. The Police Commemoration Day ceremony was attended by Members of Parliament Krishna Prasad Tenneti and Rajiv Kumar; Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan; Director of the Intelligence Bureau Mahesh Dixit; Director General of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police Shatrujeet Kapoor; the Directors General of other Central Armed Police Forces; and several senior officers.

Greater Kashmir 22 Oct 2026 6:37 am

Amritsar link under lens in Tiger Shroff firing probe

The Times of India 22 Oct 2026 1:49 am

Jhota murder: Mansa DSP & drug inspector suspended

The Times of India 22 Oct 2026 1:47 am

Punjab farm fires surge, 50 fresh cases take tally to 454

The Times of India 22 Oct 2026 1:40 am

Promotion is sweet will of employee: says HC

The Times of India 22 Oct 2026 1:39 am

PRTC, Punbus staff extend strike indefinitely as talks fail

The Times of India 22 Oct 2026 1:22 am

Man kills father with wooden stick in Fatehabad

The Times of India 22 Oct 2026 1:00 am

7 arrested; hand grenade, 2 pistols & 3.5kg heroin seized

The Times of India 21 Oct 2026 11:42 pm

2 killed as in HRTC bus-bike collision

The Times of India 21 Oct 2026 11:42 pm

Rs 20k penalty ordered as info delayed by 2 yrs

The Times of India 21 Oct 2026 11:25 pm

6 days on, body of Sirsa bizmans wife recovered from canal

The Times of India 21 Oct 2026 11:17 pm

Punjab farmers procure 21,019 crop residue management machines

Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 21 (IANS) Punjab has taken another significant step towards eliminating stubble burning, with farmers procuring 21,019 crop residue management (CRM) machines during the current season. The Super Seeder emerged as the most preferred equipment among farmers, Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian said on Wednesday. He said the large-scale procurement, supported by subsidies ranging from 50 to 80 per cent, reflects a significant shift in the states approach to crop residue management, with farmers increasingly adopting sustainable alternatives to stubble burning. The Super Seeder topped the list of the five most popular machines, with farmers purchasing 14,274 units. It was followed by the mulcher, with 1,721 units, and the Hydraulic Reversible MB Plough, with 1,346 units. The zero till drill and baling machine ranked fourth and fifth, with 1,123 and 927 units, respectively. Straw rakes also witnessed considerable demand, with 874 units procured, the minister added. Attributing the growing adoption of CRM equipment to the state government's subsidy support, Khudian said individual farmers are being provided a 50 per cent subsidy on machinery purchases, while Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs), Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), cooperative societies and panchayats are eligible for an 80 per cent subsidy. He said the state government's efforts are backed by a substantial Rs 576-crore action plan for 2026-27. These initiatives have contributed to a sharp decline in stubble-burning incidents, which fell by nearly 90 per cent, from 49,922 in 2022 to 5,114 in 2025. The progress has earned Punjab national recognition for its crop residue management strategy. Substantial subsidies and extensive awareness campaigns have encouraged farmers to view crop residue as a valuable resource rather than a liability, Khudian said. The minister highlighted the environmental and agricultural benefits of CRM machinery, noting that Super Seeders and zero-till drills enable farmers to sow wheat directly into paddy residue. This helps save time and conserve soil moisture while reducing the need to burn crop residue. Meanwhile, balers and rakes support the collection and utilisation of straw for purposes such as power generation and animal fodder. Reaffirming the Bhagwant Mann-led Punjab government's commitment to the welfare of farmers, Khudian said the state government remains firmly committed to supporting the farming community and promoting environmentally sustainable agricultural practices. He urged farmers to make maximum use of available CRM machinery and abandon stubble burning, emphasising that environmental protection is a collective responsibility. Every farmer's contribution, he said, is essential to safeguarding public health, preserving natural resources and ensuring a cleaner, healthier future for coming generations.

bhaskarlive 21 Oct 2026 5:37 pm

On Police commemoration day, Amit Shah sets December 2029 deadline to make India drug-free

New Delhi, Oct 21: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday called upon police forces across the country to intensify efforts against drug abuse and trafficking, setting December 31, 2029, as the target to free India from the drug menace. Addressing a Police Commemoration Day ceremony at the National Police Memorial in New Delhi, Shah urged police forces to work towards implementing the roadmap for a Nasha Mukt Bharat prepared under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Shah also flagged off a nationwide motorcycle rally carrying the message Fight Against Drugs as part of the campaign against substance abuse. The rally features around 90 riders from Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi, along with personnel from the Central Armed Police Forces and other central police organisations. The riders will proceed to Ekta Nagar in Gujarat to participate in the Ekta Parade-2026. Shah said drug abuse and trafficking threatened the future of younger generations, placed an unnecessary burden on the economy and could provide financial support to organisations with anti-national intentions. He called for coordinated efforts over the remainder of 2026 and the next three years to achieve the drug-free India target. At the ceremony, the Home Minister paid tribute to police personnel who laid down their lives in the line of duty, saying their sacrifices had laid the foundation for Indias security and progress. He described 2026 as a significant year for the Indian police, stating that the country had achieved freedom from Naxalism on March 31, 2026. According to Shah, more than 3,600 security personnel and nearly 13,700 civilians lost their lives during the decades-long Naxal conflict. He said the sacrifices of security personnel had contributed to the countrys progress and expressed gratitude to the families of those killed in the line of duty. Recalling the origins of Police Commemoration Day, Shah said October 21 marked the anniversary of the 1959 incident in the Hot Springs region of Ladakh, where 10 CRPF personnel laid down their lives while resisting an attack by Chinese troops. The National Police Memorial, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2018, honours police personnel who sacrificed their lives in service of the nation. Shah said citizens visit the memorial to pay tribute to 36,852 police personnel. He described police service as one of the most challenging government services, noting that personnel often remain on duty during festivals and other occasions to maintain public safety and internal security. Shah also praised the Central Armed Police Forces for their role in securing borders, managing elections and maintaining public order. He said the forces had helped ensure that the recently concluded West Bengal Assembly elections were conducted without a single fatality. The Home Minister further said that Kashmir, the North-East and areas affected by Left-Wing Extremism, which had faced prolonged internal security challenges, were witnessing peace and moving towards development. He credited security forces with curbing terrorism in Kashmir, advancing peace in the North-East and tackling Naxalism. Police Commemoration Day is observed annually on October 21 to honour police personnel who have made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.

Greater Kashmir 21 Oct 2026 2:51 pm

Chandigarh Institute for Transformation Recruitment 2026

Chandigarh Institute for Transformation has announced 3 vacancies, including Team Leader, Sector Expert, and Sector Expert II Environment posts. The last date to submit the offline application is 10 November 2026. Further details are available at chandigarh.gov.in.

FreeJobAlert 21 Oct 2026 2:02 pm

Deported from US, Punjab

Chandigarh:Three men from a village in Punjabs Kapurthala district who were flown back from the US in handcuffs and leg chains last year have left India again, this time for Spain. The three, all from Bagrian village in the Bholath area, were among the 104 Indians deported on a US military aircraft that landed in 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 .

The Siasat Daily 21 Oct 2026 12:59 pm

Seven Held in Punjab With Grenade, Pistols, 3.49 Kg Heroin

Chandigarh, Oct 21: Punjab Police have arrested seven people and recovered a hand grenade, two pistols and 3.491 kg of heroin while dismantling a drug trafficking, illegal arms and explosives smuggling network, an official said on Wednesday. Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav said the recovery was made by Amritsar Rural Police as part [] The post Seven Held in Punjab With Grenade, Pistols, 3.49 Kg Heroin appeared first on Northlines .

The Northlines 21 Oct 2026 12:13 pm

EXCLUSIVE: Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat turns ONE; what do the film, Hanuman Ansh and Obsession have in common? Milap Zaveri explains why controlled budgets are the key to success: Biggest issue is WASTAGE of moneywe spent where required, but not unnecessarily

Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat (2025), starring Harshvardhan Rane and Sonam Bajwa, completes one year of its release on October 21. Three days before the anniversary, the films team came together for a lovely reunion, as evident from a picture posted by its writer-director Milap Zaveri. In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, Milap spoke about the reunion, his memories of the film and how its controlled budget offers an important lesson for the industry. Tell us about the Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat reunion that happened recently It was a get-together and a musical night at producer Anshul Gargs office. It was held on Sunday. And yes, you can call it a reunion! Was it specifically timed to coincide with the films first anniversary? No, it wasn't planned that way. It just happened organically. These things happen magically when they are meant to happen. Luckily, Harsh didn't have a shoot that day, and Sonam was also free. Hence, we met and had a great time reminiscing about the film. What memories did you guys share? Around a year ago, we were at the same place celebrating Diwali and the success of the film. We hadn't assembled as a group since then. Hum alag-alag ek doosre se mile the. However, the last time all of us were together was on the night of the film's release. So, this reunion felt even more special. We clicked pictures, chatted and laughed. We joked about how we were the underdogs and how very few people had faith in the film before its release. And then, we recalled how it won hearts and surprised everyone. It's a film that changed everyone's lives in a beautiful way. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Milap Zaveri (@milapzaveri) Today is October 20, and the time is 12:45 pm. Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat was released on October 21 last year. What was Milap Zaveri doing exactly a year ago, on this date and at this time? (Laughs) Milap Zaveri was going through a mix of emotions! By then, there was tremendous buzz around the film, thanks to Anshul's marketing efforts. Raghav Sharma also put his best foot forward. The music had become a rage, especially the title song, while the dialogues had gone viral. So, there was obviously a lot of anticipation and excitement. Moreover, the film was releasing on a Tuesday, which was a huge gamble. We were excited and nervous, but at the same time, confident about what we had made. For me, it was my first film in four years. So, obviously, I had huge butterflies in my stomach. Somewhere, I was confident that I had made an honest film that would touch people's hearts. I must give a lot of credit to Harsh, Anshul, Gaurav Verma, Aman Gill, Shaad Randhawa and others. They believed in the film very strongly from the moment they saw the first edit. When your team is so confident, it inspires confidence in you as well. There's a saying in our industry jab log bikhar jaate hain, toh pata chalta hai ki film mein problem hai. Lekin jab log rukte hain aapke saath, baat karte hain, discuss karte hain, that's when you know that the film has struck a chord. That meant a lot to me. Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat was made on a tight budget, and yet it looked grand. Recently, Hanuman Ansh struck a chord despite being made for less than Rs. 3 crores. Similarly, the Hollywood film Obsession was reportedly made for under Rs. 10 crores. These examples prove that one can spend less and still deliver a classy-looking product. Do you feel the industry should learn from the success of such reasonably budgeted films? Absolutely. The fact that Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat was made at the right cost is precisely why it's a super-hit. Agar cost high hota, toh hit hoti. Usse high hota, toh average hoti. Usse bhi high hota, toh flop hoti! Today, budgeting is extremely important. You need to make your film smartly while ensuring that it looks grand. I must give a lot of credit to Anshul. Even though we didn't have a sky-high budget, he encouraged me to shoot in Chandigarh and Manali. I told him that I would shoot the climax in two days. He replied, 'You take three days'. When I asked for three cameras, he gave me four! He was clear that I shouldn't compromise on the climax. Similarly, for the song 'Bol Kaffara Kya Hoga', we travelled to Rajasthan and shot in a real palace. So, wherever required, we spent money. But we didn't spend unnecessarily. Your cast and crew also need to support you. I had an extraordinary crew that worked tirelessly, along with a fantastic cast. Harsh, Sonam and Shaad shot four to five scenes each in a single day. These were dramatic and emotional scenes, so it wasn't easy. Had they not been such capable actors, and had I spent time explaining every little thing to them, I wouldn't have been able to complete the shoot in just 35 days. So, it's extremely important to surround yourself with the right actors and technicians who understand that the film has a certain budget but are still determined to deliver the best possible output. If producers, actors and directors work together with this understanding, a lot of money can be saved. The biggest issue is wastage. For instance, a Jimmy Jib comes at a cost. You should hire it only for the days when you actually need it. Also Read: Milap Zaveri on Harshvardhan Ranes character from Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat accused of being problematic, His love isnt driven by lust or obsession

Bollywood Hungama 21 Oct 2026 11:40 am

Exciting Job Openings at GMCH Chandigarh: Apply Now!

The Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) in Chandigarh is offering 242 job vacancies in various medical roles. Interested candidates can apply online until October 28, 2026. The recruitment includes positions such as Senior Resident and Medical Officer, with eligibility criteria based on educational qualifications and age limits. A written examination is scheduled for November 3 and 4, 2026, followed by interviews for successful candidates. Don't miss this chance to advance your career in the medical sector!

Naukrinama 21 Oct 2026 11:36 am

Punjab Police dismantle drug trafficking, arms, explosives smuggling network; arrest seven

Chandigarh In a major breakthrough, Punjab Police on Wednesday said they have dismantled a drug trafficking, illegal arms and explosives The post Punjab Police dismantle drug trafficking, arms, explosives smuggling network; arrest seven appeared first on Bilkul Online .

Bilkulonline 21 Oct 2026 11:25 am

Amit Shah to pay homage to martyrs on Police Commemoration Day, flag-off nationwide motorcycle rally against drugs

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 21 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah will pay homage to the martyrs on Police Commemoration Day at the National Police Memorial in Chanakyapuri, New Delhi on Wednesday. The Union Home Minister will also address the assembly. The programme will conclude with him laying a wreath at the altar dedicated to the martyrs of Hot Springs, according to the official statement. The Home Minister will also flag off a motorcycle rally of about 90 police riders from States/UTs (Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi); Central Armed Police Forces (CRPF, CISF, BSF, SSB, ITBP and NSG) and some Central Police Organisations (RPF, NDRF and NIA). According to the statement, this initiative is part of a nationwide Fight Against Drugs rally, in which police riders from all States, Union Territories, and Central Forces will converge at Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, to participate in the Ekta Parade on October 31. On the lines of previous years, Police Commemoration Day will be observed across the country to pay homage to police martyrs. The main function will be organised at National Police Memorial, New Delhi, where a joint parade of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and Delhi Police would be held. As part of the remembrances, CAPFs/CPOs will organise various commemorative events at NPM from October 22 to 30, which will include visits of family members of martyrs, Police Band Display, motorcycle rallies, Run for Martyrs, blood donation camps, essay/painting competitions for children and display of video films showcasing sacrifice, valour and services of police personnel, said the statement. On this day in 1959, 10 valiant policemen laid down their lives in an ambush laid by heavily armed Chinese troops at Hot Springs, Ladakh. Since then, October 21 is observed as Police Commemoration Day every year. In recognition of the sacrifices made by police personnel and their paramount role in preserving national security and integrity, the Prime Minister dedicated the National Police Memorial (NPM), Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, to the nation on Police Commemoration Day 2018.

bhaskarlive 21 Oct 2026 7:35 am

Chandigarhs anti-drug drive hits 1,000-arrest milestone.

The Times of India 21 Oct 2026 3:27 am

Mann hands over Jhota murder probe to CBI

The Times of India 21 Oct 2026 1:30 am

AAP puts 4 posers to Shah on drugs, gangsterism

The Times of India 21 Oct 2026 1:18 am

Crackerless Ravans fly off shelves in Mohali

The Times of India 21 Oct 2026 1:09 am

Arbitrary: HC quashes Yamunanagar SP order blocking FB page

The Times of India 21 Oct 2026 1:08 am

Punjab logs 36 new cases, tops farm fire list

The Times of India 21 Oct 2026 1:08 am

Fake cops scam Pinjore retiree of 7 lakh

The Times of India 21 Oct 2026 12:58 am

Over 79k arrested in nine months of Gangstran Te Vaar

The Times of India 21 Oct 2026 12:49 am

Sukhu offers prayers at Jakhu Temple on Dussehra

The Times of India 21 Oct 2026 12:46 am

Sukhu to visit Holi in Chamba tomorrow, launch projects

The Times of India 20 Oct 2026 11:40 pm

Man found dead on Jubbal highway

The Times of India 20 Oct 2026 11:31 pm

Over 10.25 lakh devotees visit 7 HP shrines during Navratri

The Times of India 20 Oct 2026 11:23 pm

Two drug suspects held after twin Kshtera shootouts

The Times of India 20 Oct 2026 11:08 pm

HM Shahs visit sends strong message to drug smugglers: Punjab BJP chief

Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 20 (IANS) Punjab BJP President, Kewal Singh Dhillon, on Tuesday said Union Home Minister Amit Shahs visit to Punjab had sent a strong message that the days of drug smugglers were numbered and that the state would soon be free from drugs. Dhillon made the statement after accompanying Shah during meetings with families of victims allegedly affected by the drug menace, including the family of Parvinder Singh Jhota. He said he accompanied the Home Minister to meet the families of Vikramjit Singh in Gurdaspur, Gulzar Singh in Turbanjara in Sangrur, and Jhotta in Mansa. According to Dhillon, the families were assured that justice would be delivered. Targeting the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab, Dhillon alleged that it had failed to control drug trafficking and that those raising their voices against drugs were being killed. Reacting to the state government's decision to hand over the Jhota murder case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Dhillon claimed that the move was prompted by political pressure following Shahs visit rather than a genuine commitment to justice. He alleged that the state government had initially attempted to portray Jhotas murder as a case of personal enmity. Dhillon demanded that the Punjab government publicly apologise to Jhotas family and the people of the state. He said the decision to transfer the investigation to the CBI reflected the government's inability to ensure justice for the victims family. The BJP state President further said his party had taken up the matter earlier, writing to the Punjab Governor on October 13 to demand a CBI investigation, as the party believed the state government would not take appropriate action. Dhillon claimed that the families of Jhota and other victims could expect justice only through the intervention of Shah, the Central government and the CBI. He demanded that all similar cases be transferred to the central agency for impartial investigations and accountability. Launching a further attack on the AAP government, Dhillon said it could not evade responsibility for the situation in Punjab. He claimed that the people of the state were ready to remove the government, which he accused of coming to power on the basis of false promises.

bhaskarlive 20 Oct 2026 6:48 pm

Sara Ali Khan seeks blessings at the Golden Temple with Udta Teer co-star Ayushmann Khurrana

Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 20 (IANS) Bollywood actress Sara Ali Khan took blessings at the Golden Temple with her Udta Teer co-star Ayushmann Khurrana. Talking about his visit, Ayushmann shared that he is visiting the Golden Temple for the third time and whenever he comes here, it is always a great experience. On Tuesday, Sara took to her official Instagram handle and uploaded a picture of herself and Ayushmann posing in front of the Golden Temple. Twinning in white ethnic wear, the co-stars faced the camera with their hands folded in front of the temple. Wishing all on the auspicious occasion of Dussehra, the 'Atrangi Re' actress wrote on the photo-sharing app, Happy Dussehra (Folded hands and Two heart emojis) Wishing everyone love, luck and laughter (Hug emoticon) (sic). Ayushmann and Sara are currently busy promoting their upcoming laughter ride, 'Udta Teer. Earlier this month, both of them were seen enjoying the rich culture of Punjab, imbibing the spirit of the place. Ayushmann, who is from Chandigarh, was seen savouring a big glass of traditional Punjabi lassi. Accompanying him, Sara was also enjoying her experience, exploring the Punjabi culture. She took to her Insta account and posted a clip of herself posing in a beautiful pink salwar Kameez, standing in the middle of a farm. The 'Kedarnath' actress said, Sat Sri Akal, viewers. This morning, I had a dream. I am in Chandigarh, in the heart of Punjab. With me is a man who is extremely amazing. Please put your hands together for Ayushmann Khurrana sahib. Directed by Aakash Kaushik, the promising cast of the movie also includes Rahul Bose, Ram Kapoor, Gulshan Grover, Mukul Dev, Suhail Nayyar, Raghubir Yadav, Brijendra Kala, Sandeep Anand, Supriya Pilgaonkar and Smita Tambe, along with others. Udta Teer, which was initially scheduled to be out in the cinema halls on October 9, is now slated to be released on October 23.

bhaskarlive 20 Oct 2026 3:18 pm

HM Shah meets family of slain anti-drug activist Vikramjeet Singh in Punjabs Gurdaspur

Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 20 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday visited Punjabs Gurdaspur district, bordering Pakistan, to meet the family of Vikramjeet Singh, who was allegedly killed after opposing drug trafficking. The Home Minister spent around 15 minutes with the family. The family, it is learnt, handed him a list of demands, comprising a fair probe, a government job and financial aid. The visit is part of HM Shahs tour of Punjab to meet the families of three individuals whose deaths have drawn attention to the states drug menace. The other planned meetings are with the family of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa and the family of Gulzar Singh in Sangrur. Vikramjeet Singh was allegedly shot dead on October 15 in the Mari Pannwan village area under Hargobindpur Sahib in Gurdaspur district. The incident reportedly occurred in the context of opposition to drug sales. HM Shahs visit comes amid growing public concern over drug-related violence and demands for stronger action against those involved in narcotics trafficking. The Union Home Ministry has also sought detailed reports from the Punjab government regarding the recent deaths. During his Punjab visit, HM Shah is also scheduled to attend Dussehra celebrations at Daresi Ground in Ludhiana, where the anti-drug message is expected to feature prominently. The meeting with Vikramjeet Singhs family is part of the Centres engagement with families affected by drug-related violence in Punjab. Ahead of the day-long visit of Home Minister Shah, the AAP government reiterated its support for the family of Parminder Singh Jhota, who has been fighting against drug abuse, and announced that his case will be handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in response to the familys demand. We stand firmly with the father and family of Parminder Singh Jhota, who has been fighting against drugs. Respecting the familys demand, we are handing over the case to the CBI, the Chief Minister wrote on X. Responding to the state governments decision, former state BJP President Sunil Jakhar said the government took way too long in issuing the CBI order. The Punjab government has finally been forced to bow before public outrage and hand over the investigation of Parvinder Singh Jhota's murder to the CBI. But this is not just one case. Under the patronage of the Aam Aadmi Party government in Punjab, there have been numerous such incidents where drug traffickers have murdered people for raising their voices against drugs or forced them to commit suicide, Jakhar wrote on X. We request the honorable Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah ji, who is on a visit to Punjab, that now when the CBI investigation begins, it should be conducted on a broader scale and completed within a stipulated timeframe to expose the entire nexus behind it, so that the victims can get complete justice, he added.

bhaskarlive 20 Oct 2026 1:41 pm

PGIMER Chandigarh Nursing Officer Exam Date 2026 Out - Check Revised Exam Schedule at pgimer.edu.in

PGIMER Nursing Officer Exam Date 2026 has been revised to 18 November 2026 (afternoon shift) for 243 Nursing Officer (Group B) posts under Advertisement No. PGI/RC/055/2026/2276. The CBT, originally scheduled for 21 October, has been postponed.

FreeJobAlert 20 Oct 2026 12:52 pm

Anti-drug activist Jhota murder case: Punjab govt to hand over probe to CBI

Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 20 (IANS) Ahead of the day-long visit of Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the state, the AAP government in Punjab on Tuesday reiterated its support for the family of slain anti-drug activist Parminder Singh Jhota, who has been fighting against drug abuse, and announced that his case will be handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in response to the familys demand. We stand firmly with the father and family of Parminder Singh Jhota, who has been fighting against drugs. Respecting the familys demand, we are handing over the case to the CBI, the Chief Minister wrote on X. Reaffirming its commitment to tackling the drug menace in Punjab, the government said its fight against drug traffickers would continue with full determination. Our fight against drug traffickers is a decisive one. We will not back down from taking any stringent measures necessary to make Punjab drug-free, he added. Home Minister Shah is visiting Punjab amid growing concern over drug trafficking and drug-related violence, with the death of anti-drug activist Jhota in Mansa bringing the issue into sharp focus. During his visit, HM Shah is scheduled to meet the families of three people whose deaths have drawn attention to the states drug problem. His itinerary includes Mansa, Sangrur and Gurdaspur, followed by Dussehra celebrations in Ludhiana, where an effigy symbolising Chitta, a synthetic drug, is scheduled to be burnt alongside Ravana. The visit comes at a time when the drug menace has become a major political issue in Punjab ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections. The Union Home Ministry has also sought detailed reports from the Punjab government regarding three cases linked to the controversy. In Mansa, HM Shah is scheduled to meet the family of Jhota, an anti-drug activist who was shot dead on October 13. His killing has triggered protests and demands for justice, intensifying public debate over the safety of people who speak out against drug trafficking. Jhotas father, Bhim Singh, has expressed support for HM Shahs visit and invited the Union Home Minister to his residence. He has also appealed to HM Shah to meet the family at home rather than at the protest site. The familys demand for justice has become a central issue in the ongoing confrontation surrounding the case. Apart from Mansa, HM Shah is scheduled to visit Mari Panwan village in Gurdaspur district to meet the family of Bikramjit Singh, who was killed on October 15. In Sangrur district, HM Shah is expected to meet the family of Gulzar Singh, who died by suicide on September 7 after an alleged confrontation concerning drug sales in his village and remarks directed at Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema. The circumstances and allegations surrounding the case have become part of the wider political debate. State BJP General Secretary Anil Sareen said the three families HM Shah is scheduled to meet have become symbols of the fight against drugs in Punjab. The BJP has pledged that Punjab will be completely drug-free by December 31, 2029, after the party forms the government in the state. Sareen said HM Shahs visit comes at a time when Punjab is struggling with the devastating impact of drugs, while Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann is enjoying himself on a foreign tour. The BJP alleged that the Aam Aadmi Party government has left Punjab to fend for itself, whereas the BJP stands firmly with the affected families.

bhaskarlive 20 Oct 2026 10:29 am

Former Jammu Kashmir-Cadre IPS Officer Dies in Chandigarh

SRINAGAR: Former Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Ram Prakash, who served in the erstwhile Jammu and Kashmir cadre, died in Chandigarh on Sunday. Prakash was remembered in police, administrative and political circles for a high-profile confrontation with former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Mohammad Shah, popularly known as GM Shah. He served in the []

KashmirLife 20 Oct 2026 9:25 am

Former J&K cadre IPS officer Ram Prakash passes away in Chandigarh

Srinagar, Oct 19: Former Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Ram Prakash, who belonged to the erstwhile Jammu and Kashmir cadre and was widely remembered in police and administrative circles for his professional integrityincluding an epic face-off with the then Chief Minister Ghulam Mohammad Shahpassed away in Chandigarh on Sunday. He had been unwell in recent times. Prakash served the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir during a period marked by political flux and challenges to law and order. As a senior IPS officer of the J&K cadre, he held various key field and supervisory assignments across the region. Colleagues and contemporaries recalled him as an officer known for uprightness and a willingness to uphold professional norms.

Greater Kashmir 20 Oct 2026 7:01 am

Hockey Asian Champions Trophy tour rolls into Sangrur

The Times of India 20 Oct 2026 1:26 am

Harsimrat writes to Shah, seeks CBI probe into Jhota murder

The Times of India 20 Oct 2026 1:12 am

Shah to attend Dussehra festivities in Ludhiana

The Times of India 20 Oct 2026 1:05 am

Over 70,000 devotees visit 3 temples on Navratris ninth day

The Times of India 20 Oct 2026 12:49 am