Ahead of a planned protest against the alleged mistreatment of a farmer leader and missing items from demolished protest sites, Punjab Police have initiated a crackdown, placing several farm leaders under house arrest, including Jagjit Singh Dallewal. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann warned against disruptions to public life, threatening strict legal action against protesters blocking roads or railways.
Dallewal, several farmer leaders put under 'house arrest' ahead of May 6 protest
CHANDIGARH: A day ahead of the protest announced by Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM Non Political) outside the Shambhu police station, farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal was placed under house arrest at his village in Faridkot district. Many other farmer leaders and activists across the State have been detained and placed under house arrest to prevent any law and order issues. Sources said that a police team reached Dallewals village early on May 5 and was asked to stay indoors for at least three to four days. Dallewal uploaded a video of his detention on Facebook, criticising the police action against the Sidhupur faction. He said that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government is harassing the farmers rights group, which is fighting for justice. Dallewal alleged that when the farmers were forcibly evicted from Khanauri and Shambhu by the police, they allegedly faced police misconduct. He also alleged that several of their belongings, including tractors, went missing. The government then ensured that losses would be compensated. However, when we demanded compensation for the missing items, traced to close associates of AAP leaders and police personnel, the police started booking cases against farmers instead of taking action against the culprits, he said. Now, when we have planned a protest on May 6 against the conduct of the police, the government has attempted to derail our agitation, he said. I can barely walk and yet they have confined me to my home. We had only announced a one-day peaceful protest outside the Shambhu police station. People must rise and speak out, or they will silence all our voices, he said. Bharatiya Kisan Union (Doaba) president Manjit Singh Rai and other leaders of the union, including vice president Davinder Singh Sandhwan and general secretary Satnam Singh Sahni, were placed under house arrest. Other leaders like Baldev Singh Sirsa were also confined to their homes. The farmers' unions were planning to send their representatives for the protest planned at the Shambhu police station on a call given by the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (Non-Political). The protest was aimed against the alleged injuries sustained by farmers in the police action at the Shambhu and Khanauri borders on March 19. The cadres of the BKU (Doaba) intended to assemble at the Ladowal toll plaza from where they would head to the Shambhu police station. While the state police called the detention of farmers, putting up special nakas at strategic points on the highways and link roads, a routine measure to maintain law and order, the farmer leaders were taken by surprise to see that almost all roads connecting their houses with the highways were sealed. However, the police did not announce any detentions officially. After the detentions of the farmer leaders, issuing a strong warning, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann wrote on X, Any announcements, protests or strikes in Punjab that involve blocking roads or railways to cause inconvenience to the general public and disrupt daily life will be considered as acts against the public. All organisations, unions and groups are advised to take note of it. There are other ways to express opposition, troubling the people is not right. Otherwise, be prepared for strict legal action, issued in the interest of the hardworking people of Punjab, he said.
Day before protest, several SKM leaders put under house arrest in Punjab: Farmer leaders
CHANDIGARH, May 5: Farmer leaders have claimed that several Samyukt Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) leaders, including Jagjit Singh Dallewal, were put under house arrest by the Punjab government on Monday, ahead of their scheduled protest outside the Shambhu police station. The May 6 protest was called against the Punjab government over its alleged use of repressive methods to evict protesting farmers from Shambhu and Khanauri border points in March. The farmer leaders claimed that Punjab Police personnel reached their houses [] The post Day before protest, several SKM leaders put under house arrest in Punjab: Farmer leaders appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
More wet days likely in Tricity till May 9
Unused, unkept: PUs retreats forgotten in hills as students pay crores
Himachal Roadways conductor assaulted in Pinjore
Rajya Sabha MP Randeep Surjewala calls for central intervention to end Punjab-Haryana water dispute.
Make Call Before U Dig app mandatory for all road excavation activities: Centre to UT
3 decades on, land acquired for tourist complex lies abandoned in Pinjore
Man who fled to Dubai after 2nd marriage held at Chennai airport
UT cops file FIR against FIITJEE chairman, others for fraud & misappropriation of student funds
Shepherd, livestock washed away in Chamba flash flood
Generals Jottings: Key to crafting a strategy in response to Pahalgam horror
BJP leader questions presence of Pak nationals in Punjab after deadline to leave india
Amravati electricity sub-division office receives staff after nearly four years
Muddy water supply concerns residents in Sector 15, Panchkula
Illegal tree felling cases reported in Panchkula; watchman drugged, officials attacked
Urgent need to safeguard the Constitution: Cong
PGIs project Sarthi struggles with volunteer training, patient assistance
Water crisis: Punjabs single engine heavy on BJP's double engine government, says Deepender Hooda
Congress leaders Uday Bhan and Deepender Singh Hooda led rallies in Ambala and Kurukshetra as part of the Sanvidhan Bachao campaign, addressing concerns over constitutional values and the BJP government's alleged failures in Haryana. Hooda criticized the state's inaction on the SYL canal issue and water rights, while Bhan warned of an undeclared emergency and the undermining of the Constitution.
Late-night firing in Haryana narrowly misses forest team
Congress MP Surjewala slams Centre, Punjab & Haryana CMs over escalating water dispute
CHANDIGARH: Amid the ongoing stand-off between Punjab and Haryana over water sharing, senior Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala on Sunday questioned the silence of the Union government on the issue. He also urged the Centre to instruct the Bhagwant Mann-led AAP government in Punjab not to obstruct Haryanas water allocation. Surjewala questioned why the Narendra Modi-led NDA government is not issuing written orders to the Mann government under Article 257 of the Constitution, which deals with the control of the Union over states in certain cases. Why is it not giving directions to ensure Haryanas water is not stopped? he asked. The senior Congress leader alleged that since the assembly elections in Punjab are scheduled for 2027, the BJP is deliberately maintaining silence and avoiding action. According to him, the BJP is trying to portray Bhagwant Mann as a hero in order to prevent the Congress from coming to power in Punjab at any cost. A controversy was deliberately created over the water from the Bhakra Nangal Dam, although it was entirely avoidable, Surjewala claimed. The fact is that the water level in the dam currently stands at 1,556 feet. As per the parameters, the water level should be maintained at a minimum of 1,506 feet. If 8,500 cusecs of water is supplied daily to Haryana, by May 21 the level would still be at 1,532 feetwell above the minimum required level. So, what objection can any state have in such a situation? Yet objections are being fabricated to help the BJP support the sinking ship of Mann, he alleged. Surjewala also criticised the chief ministers of both Punjab and Haryana, claiming they are indulging in rhetoric while the Union government remains inactive. Despite the severe water shortage, Mann and Saini are busy writing letters to each other. Instead of meeting the Prime Minister and Power Minister, the Haryana CM is staging a drama with an all-party meeting and talking about approaching the Supreme Court, he said. He accused the central government of ignoring the issue altogether. The Union government is sleeping as if Punjab and Haryana dont exist. The Bhakra Beas Management Board, which falls under the Centres Power Ministry, is doing nothing, Surjewala alleged. Punjab Police deployed at Bhakra Nangal dam despite Union Home Secretary asking to withdraw force Highlighting the impact on Haryana, Surjewala said the state is facing a severe water crisis, especially in the districts of Kaithal, Kurukshetra, Jind, Fatehabad, Rewari, Bhiwani, Dadri, Mahendragarh, and Sirsa. He noted that water supply from Bhakra Dam has been reduced from 8,500 cusecs to 4,000 cusecs. In this scorching heat, around 215 water works have dried up, and village ponds are nearly empty. Cattle are on the verge of dying of thirst, and tanker mafias are charging Rs 1,000 per tanker. The cotton crop (Narma) must be sown by May 15, but in the Cotton Bowl of HaryanaSirsa, Hisar, and Fatehabadsowing has stopped in nearly 5 lakh hectares, he claimed. The stand-off between Punjab and Haryana intensified on Saturday as the Punjab government boycotted a meeting of the Bhakra Beas Management Board. Meanwhile, an all-party meeting held in Haryana called on the Punjab government to unconditionally release the water. The AAP-ruled Punjab government has refused to release additional water to the BJP-ruled Haryana, claiming the latter had already utilised 103 percent of its allocated share by March.
IPL 2025: Lucknow Super Giants Elect To Bowl First Against Punjab Kings, Stoinis Comes In
Lucknow Super Giants: Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have won the toss and elected to bowl first against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 54 of IPL 2025 at the HPCA Stadium on Sunday. This is also PBKS first match at their second home venue in the ongoing season after playing four games in New Chandigarh. PBKS are fourth on the points table with six wins from 10 games and are very much in the reckoning to enter the playoffs. On the other hand, LSG are back after a week-long break from the competition, and are at sixth place with five wins from 11 matches. A win for them will keep their playoffs hopes alive. After winning the toss, LSG skipper Rishabh Pant said the ball might stop a bit early on, which is why he opted to bowl first. LSG have also kept leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi in the impact substitutes list, which tells that the side feels the pitch would aid seamers. With inclement weather in the city for last two days, LSG have given a cap to left-arm pacer Akash Singh. We feel it is a bowling first pitch. We don't know how it is going to play. Looks like, it will stop a bit. Little loose on the top. Still, a good wicket. It is going to be a good match. Bowling first we will have the advantage and see how the game unfolds and that's the kinda of advantage we were looking to have. Just trying to be simple more often. You want people to have conversation when you are losing. Good to see youngsters stepping in, he said. PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer said they have made one change seam-bowling all-rounder Marcus Stoinis comes into the playing eleven. We would have bowled first as well. The wicket was covered for a while and it was pouring yesterday and the day before. It was under the sheets and you know the moisture it adopts to. The grass is thicker. I don't want to predict how the wicket is going to be. We are up for the competition. You gotta to take positives from the game. You can't dwell on how bad you have done in a particular game. It haunts you every now and then. We need to be in high spirits and keep motivating each other and see to it that we are enjoying each other's success. That's the culture and camaraderie in the team. Just keeping things simple. I know it is tough but that's the mantra, he said. Playing XIs Punjab Kings: Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, Shreyas Iyer (captain), Josh Inglis (wk), Shashank Singh, Nehal Wadhera, Marcus Stoinis, Azmatullah Omarzai, Marco Jansen, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Arshdeep Singh Impact Substitutes: Vijaykumar Vyshak, Harpreet Brar, Pravin Dubey, Suryansh Shedge, and Xavier Bartlett Lucknow Super Giants: Aiden Markram, Nicholas Pooran, Rishabh Pant (captain & wicketkeeper), Abdul Samad, Ayush Badoni, David Miller, Akash Maharaj Singh, Digvesh Singh Rathi, Avesh Khan, Mayank Yadav, and Prince Yadav Impact Substitutes: Vijaykumar Vyshak, Harpreet Brar, Pravin Dubey, Suryansh Shedge, and Xavier Bartlett Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Article Source: IANS
Punjab Police arrest two for allegedly providing sensitive information to Pakistan's ISI
CHANDIGARH: In a counter-espionage operation, the Punjab Police has arrested two persons for allegedly supplying sensitive information and photographs of Army cantonment areas and air bases to Pakistan intelligence. Director General of Police, Punjab, Gaurav Yadav, said Amritsar Rural Police arrested Palak Sher Masih and Suraj Masih on Saturday. Preliminary investigation revealed their links to Pakistani intelligence operatives, established through Harpreet Singh alias Pittu currently lodged in Amritsar Central Jail. A case has been registered under the Official Secrets Act, and the investigation is underway. Further critical revelations are expected as the probe deepens, he added. Yadav further said that the Punjab Police stands strong with the Indian Army and remains unwavering in its duty to safeguard national interests. Any attempt to undermine the security of our armed forces will be met with firm and immediate action, he said. Senior Superintendent of Police (Amritsar Rural) Maninder Singh said that they received a secret tip-off about both Palak and Suraj that they were in constant touch with operatives of ISI of Pakistan and providing them information about sensitive installations. We have arrested both of them and recovered a lot of data. Harpreet Singh, who facilitated them to get in touch with ISI, is presently lodged at Amritsar Central Jail. We will bring him on a production warrant. He is already booked under the NDPS Act, and now the police have registered a case under the Official Secrets Act and the Information Technology Act, he said. As per the initial probe, the two alleged accused were given Rs 5,000 in return for minor information and Rs 10,000 for sensitive information about the movement of troops. They used to pick heroin consignments from the border, earlier.
The Punjab and Haryana High Court has struck down a 2020 amendment to Haryana's urban development rules, deeming it unconstitutional. The invalidated rule allowed the state to demand land and forfeit large sums from developers surrendering licenses.
Timber smugglers open fire on forest team in Yamunanagar, escape into woods
In Yamunanagar, Haryana, timber smugglers ambushed a forest department team investigating illegal tree felling in the Khijrabad area. The officials narrowly escaped gunfire after the smugglers, caught in the act, opened fire. Authorities have registered a case, launched investigations, and are intensifying security measures to apprehend the culprits and combat timber mafias in the region.
Punjab: Two Held In Amritsar On Charge Of Spying
Chandigarh, May 4: In a counter-espionage operation, Punjab Police arrested two persons for their alleged role in leaking sensitive information and photographs of army cantonment areas and air bases in Amritsar. Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav on Sunday said Amritsar Rural Police arrested Palak Sher Masih and Suraj Masih on Saturday. Preliminary investigation revealed their links to Pakistani intelligence operatives, established through Harpreet Singh alias Pittu currently lodged in Amritsar Central Jail, the DGP said. A case has been [] The post Punjab: Two Held In Amritsar On Charge Of Spying appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
GPS jammers put in place along India-Pak borders, harrowing time for pilots
NEW DELHI: The electronic warfare units deployed by India to jam Global Positioning Systems (GPS) of Pakistan military aircraft along the Indo-Pak border are creating issues for flights within India flying over cities in the vicinity, said an airport source. There is no major passenger safety involved but the flights are forced to fly a little longer due to problems encountered by the navigation aids inside the cockpit. Of late, we have received complaints from pilots of different airlines flying over Amritsar, Chandigarh and Srinagar about the sudden signal drops at some points during the travel. This forces them to fly a little longer than expected. Airlines are now loading some extra fuel in the flights flying towards this direction, taking into account the need to move around a bit extra distance whenever needed, the source said. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation too has been apprised of the issue, the source added. According to Global tracker of aircraft flights, flightradar24, in a report states, GPS jamming involves saturating GPS receivers with unknown signals to render the receiver unusable, essentially degrading everyones ability to effectively use GPS for navigational issues. Aviation safety consultant and former pilot Captain Mohan Ranganathan said, All flight management systems use GPS signals and separations are based on accurate signals. If they are degraded, radar separations and conventional navigation has to be followed. This will cause delays. Airlines and Air Traffic Controllers will have to anticipate disruptions in schedules. A pilot, requesting anonymity said, That can happen in any war-ravaged area. It is called as a GPS denied airspace. He added, Defence aircraft mostly are fully equipped and wont be affected by GPS spoofing as the technology and satellites are under our control.
ETP at GMCH ready, UT health dept seeks consent to operate
Chandigarh resident loses Rs 1.4cr in online share trading fraud
Northern Railway GM inspects Kalka railway station, reviews passenger facilities
Chandigarh administration plans premium direct bus service to Delhi airport
Mohali cops bust inter-state robbery gang, arrest 4
HC orders removal of unauthorized gurdwara & temple in Kharar
Chandigarh administration wants to reassess MCs finances, asks for revenue receipts
Shimla MC court orders demolition of remaining 2 floors of 5-storey Sanjauli mosque
Resources in Punjab, Haryana and Himachal
Pahalgam attack: Indian diaspora unites to support govt action against terrorism
No movement observed at Attari-Wagah border after exit orders for Pakistani nationals
Petition in HC: Withdraw Punjab cops from Bhakra headworks, obstructing water
6.2LMT wheat procured in Amritsar: DC
Lovepreet Singhs family threatens to go on fast unto death over police inaction in his murder case
Nangal to be developed as world-class tourist destination, says min
Indira ordered greatest surgical strike: Warring hits back at BJP over Channi
Water dispute makes oppn rally behind Haryana CM: Mann restorting to unconstitutional moves
Dubai-based NGO comes to aid of Jagdev Kalan accident victims family
Mann vows to safeguard Punjabs water resources, farmer interests
HC directs Punjab to provide security to Bikram Singh Majithia based on MHAs report
Punjab overdrawing water: Saini; AAP accuses Haryana CM of manipulating data
Water dispute a conspiracy by centre, claims farmer body
Varinder Kumar appointed special DGP human rights in Punjab Police reshuffle
HC: Illegal religious structures in housing colony must go
Water dispute: Haryana spreading false claims, say Pb ministers
Inadequate canal supply, tubewells dry: Water crisis worsens in Haryana
HC attaches Punjabi varsity registrars salary over delayed retirement benefits
Citing seven-day notice rule, Punjab boycotts BBMB meeting over water-sharing row with Haryana
CHANDIGARH: A day after the BJP-led Union Government advised the AAP-led Punjab Government to implement the Bhakra Beas Management Boards (BBMB) order to release an additional 4,500 cusecs of water from the Bhakra Dam to Haryana over the next eight days to meet the urgent water needs of the state, Punjab did not participate in the BBMB meeting held today. Instead, it sent a letter requesting that the meeting be postponed. Sources said that in the letter to the BBMB chairman, the state government stated that a special session of the Punjab Assembly has been convened on Monday (May 5), during which the BBMB's decision to allocate 4,500 cusecs of additional water to Haryana would be discussed. As such, it could not participate in the meeting. The officials of the state government are currently preoccupied with preparations for the assembly session. The Water Resources Department further stated that a seven-day notice is mandatory before convening a BBMB meeting, as per Section 7 of the 1976 Regulations, and demanded adherence to proper procedures. It is respectfully requested that the meeting may kindly be adjourned. The Punjab government has called a special session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on May 5 amid the water-sharing dispute with Haryana, the letter read. Not a drop of excess water from Bhakra dam: Punjab parties unite to block release to Haryana The state government also pointed out that, as per BBMB regulations, a notice of no less than seven days is required for holding a special meeting. Subsequently, another notice was issued on April 29 for the April 30 meeting. In both cases, the provisions of Regulation 3 of the 1976 Regulations were not followed. Under the circumstances, the decisions taken in both meetings are therefore not in accordance with the law. It is requested that the meeting proposed on May 3 be adjourned, the letter added. Meanwhile, in a meeting held yesterday in Delhi and headed by Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, the Punjab Government was advised to release the water. Punjab Water Resources and Soil and Water Conservation Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal said that the Punjab Government boycotted the BBMB meeting. Terming the meeting completely unconstitutional and illegal, Goyal said that proper protocols had been violated in the scheduling of the 255th Special Meeting. Under Regulation 3 of the 1976 Regulations, a seven-day notice is mandatory before scheduling a BBMB meeting, he said. Goyal pointed out that the recent BBMB meetings held on April 28 and April 30 were also convened without adhering to the mandatory notice period. Notices for these meetings were issued merely a day before the scheduled dateson April 27 and April 29, respectivelyrendering any decisions taken during these meetings legally questionable. The BBMB regulates water distribution from the Bhakra, Pong, and Ranjit Sagar dams. Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan are the partner states that meet their requirements for various purposes, including irrigation, from the Bhakra and Pong dams. The board decides the annual quota of water supply to the three partner statesPunjab, Haryana, and Rajasthanfor a yearly cycle from May 21 to May 21 each year. 'Illegal, inhuman': All-party meet in Haryana asks Punjab government to release water unconditionally
Shimla municipal commissioner court orders demolition of two more floors of Sanjauli mosque
CHANDIGARH: The Court of the Municipal Commissioner has ordered the demolition of two additional floors of the mosque in the Sanjauli area of Shimla, following a similar order issued last year for the demolition of three floors of the same mosque. This decision was made after the Waqf Board failed to present the mosques revenue records during the court hearing. The Waqf Boards lawyer argued that the mosque originally existed before 1947 and was rebuilt after being demolished. However, Commissioner Bhupender Kumar Attri questioned why the necessary permissions, including architectural plans, were not obtained from the municipal corporation for the reconstruction. MC Commissioner Attri ruled that the mosque had been built without the required approvals, including a building permit, a no-objection certificate, and a sanctioned map, all in violation of municipal regulations. He ordered the demolition of the lower two floors, in addition to the three floors previously ordered to be demolished in October last year. VHP warns of mass movement if Sanjauli mosque is not demolished in 15 days Jagat Pal, the lawyer representing local residents who had sought the demolition of the mosque, stated that the Waqf Board failed to produce documents proving ownership of the land and the sanctioned building plan. Following this, the Court of the Municipal Commissioner, Bhupender Kumar Attri, passed the demolition order. There is also a related matter pending before the Himachal Pradesh High Court, which is scheduled for hearing on May 8. Earlier, on October 5 last year, the Commissioners Court had ordered the demolition of three floors of the Sanjauli mosque, he said. Advocate B. S. Thakur, representing the Waqf Board, said that a detailed order is still awaited. The Commissioners Court has pronounced the order, holding that the construction at the mosque site was illegal. The Sanjauli Mosque Committee had demolished the original mosque and erected a new structure without obtaining the required permissions from the concerned authorities, including the Municipal Corporation and the Estate Office. The court has not commented on the ownership of the land, which belongs to the Himachal Pradesh Waqf Board. We are waiting for the detailed order to decide the next course of action, he said. The Himachal Pradesh High Court had directed the Municipal Commissioner to decide the case within three months, by May 8. The Commissioners Court passed the order after hearing both parties.
All-party meet in Haryana asks Punjab government to release water 'unconditionally'
CHANDIGARH: The stand-off between Punjab and Haryana over water sharing intensified on Saturday with an all-party meeting in Haryana asking the AAP government in the neighbouring state to allow the release of water from the Bhakra dam unconditionally. This came a day after an all-party meeting in Punjab backed the state government's refusal to release more water to BJP-ruled Haryana. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, after chairing the all-party meeting on Saturday, hit out at the Punjab government, saying not following the Bhakra Beas Management Board's direction to release water was unconstitutional, inhuman and an attack on the federal structure of the Constitution. The all-party meeting decided that the Mann government should release water immediately and unconditionally, Saini said at a press conference flanked by leaders from various parties who attended the meet. Centre directs Punjab to implement BBMB order to release 4500 cusecs of water to Haryana A resolution was passed at the meeting in which an appeal was made to the Punjab government that the decisions of Bhakra Beas Management Board's (BBMB) technical committee dated April 23 and another one on April 30 should be implemented forthwith unconditionally. While vowing to protect the state's rights, Saini asserted that our path is not of confrontation, but of cooperation and urged the Bhagwant Mann government to understand the pain of the neighbour. They should immediately remove the inhuman, unconstitutional, illegal and inappropriate bar on the release of water. We resolve to ensure it and the construction of the SYL canal. We are ready to fight any battle, Saini said. They have cut drinking water. All parties have expressed a strong reaction to this. All parties said they will work unitedly to protect state's interests, not just as Haryana political parties, but as Indians who have deep faith in federal structure and brotherhood, said Saini and urged the people of both states to maintain peace. Among the leaders present in the meeting were Haryana's Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Shruti Choudhry, Agriculture Minister Shyam Singh Rana, Energy Minister Anil Vij, State BJP chief Mohan Lal Badoli, Congress's Bhupinder Singh Hooda, state Congress chief Udai Bhan, JJP's Dushyant Chautala, INLD's Rampal Majra and AAP's Sushil Gupta. The Bhagwant Mann government is stopping Haryana's water in an unconstitutional manner. Mann has taken oath under the Constitution, but he is doing unconstitutional work, Saini alleged. This water belongs to the entire country. Water-sharing agreement is there between states. So, water does not belong to any one state. Even today the problem is not as big as is being projected by the Mann government, he said. Haryana govt says Punjab CM's claim 'false', will approach SC amid water row Haryana had been getting its full share of water even in 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 when the water level of the dam was quite low, said Saini. Haryana never sought more than its share. BBMB, which is an independent body, has decided Haryana's quota, but the Mann government has refused to agree with it. This is not just injustice with Haryana, but a direct attack on India's federal structure by the Mann government, Saini said. In a federal system, every state has the responsibility to respect the interests of neighbouring states, but this attitude of the Mann government is setting a ad example, he said. If Mann's government remains adamant, then under the provisions in our Constitution, we will protect our rights. But we want to say that our path is not of confrontation, but of cooperation. We appeal to the Mann government that it should adopt the path of love and brotherhood with Haryana, he said. Haryana wants to move shoulder-to-shoulder with Punjab, but for this, they also have to understand the pain of their neighbour. To protect our country's federal structure is our collective responsibility, said Saini. A fresh row had erupted over the issue of water sharing between the two neighbours, with the Punjab government refusing to release more water to the BJP-ruled Haryana. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had asserted that his government would not allow the release of more water to the neighbouring state, claiming it has already utilised 103 per cent of its allocated share. Mann had said the Punjab government, as a humanitarian gesture, had already generously allotted 4,000 cusecs of water daily to Haryana since April 6. He had also hit out at the BBMB for its decision to release extra water to Haryana, saying such obbery of Punjab's rights will not be tolerated and that the board has no right to dictate matters related to his state. The BBMB regulates water distribution from Bhakra, Pong and Ranjit Sagar dams. Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan are the partnering states that meet their water requirement for different purposes, including irrigation, from Bhakra and Pong dams. Punjab heightens dam security amid water release dispute with Haryana
CHANDIGARH: Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, the 'High Priest' of Akal Takht (the highest temporal seat of the Sikhs), on Friday issued a directive prohibiting filmmakers and artists from making movies or any animated versions using artificial intelligence (AI) that depict historic Sikh figures, stating that such portrayals violate Sikh principles. The directive comes amid Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar announcing his plans to make a film on the life of Sikh martyr Hari Singh Nalwa. Jathedar Gargaj clarified that such a film would not be permitted until the Akal Takht announces a concrete policy outlining the dos and donts for such representations. The directions were issued during a special meeting held at Akal Takht Sahib, attended by Sikh intellectuals and representatives. Jathedar Gargaj stated that previous orders of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) on the matter would remain in force. The SGPC has already issued directives imposing a blanket ban on the depiction of Sikh Gurus and their families in any film, documentary, or songwhether by actors or in animated form. Gargaj pointed out that the Religious Advisory Committee of the SGPC had passed a resolution in 1934 strictly prohibiting the portrayal of Sikh Gurus and their family members. Similar resolutions were adopted in 1940, 2003, 2015, and 2022. The meeting was convened following the release of the film Akaal by Punjabi singer Gippy Grewal, which drew objections from Sikh organisations. The gathering included Sikh intellectuals, scholars, Panthic personalities, and artists who discussed the implications of films, animated productions, and AI-generated content related to Sikh Gurus, historical Sikh warriors, and Sikh history more broadly. Jathedar Gargaj later stated that the suggestions received during the meeting would be carefully reviewed. A committee will soon be formed to evaluate these suggestions in line with Sikh principles. A draft policy will be prepared in collaboration with the SGPC. Referring to Akshay Kumars recent statement expressing his desire to make a film on Hari Singh Nalwa, Jathedar Gargaj reiterated that such a project would not be allowed. He emphasized that Nalwa, who was martyred in the Battle of Jamrud, is a revered figure in the Sikh community, and making films about Sikh martyrs is strictly prohibited. A statement issued by the Akal Takht Secretariat noted that scholars expressed concerns over how current technological trends pose significant challenges to Sikh identity, traditions, and philosophy. It stressed the importance of preserving and promoting traditional modes of religious engagement, such as oral traditions, Gurdwaras, and Sikh institutions. Jathedar Gargaj concluded by stating that all scholars present at the meeting unanimously agreed that the Sikh community cannot permit its heroes and martyrs to be used for commercial purposes. He emphasized that the Khalsa Panth remains clear and united in its position: no films should be made featuring representations of Sikh Gurus, their family members, Sahibzadas (sons of Gurus), Sikh martyrs, revered personalities, or Sikh religious ceremonies.
Tourists cancel Kashmir bookings, shift to Himachal after Pahalgam attack fallout
CHANDIGARH: Tourists now prefer vacationing in Himachal Pradesh over Jammu and Kashmir after the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 persons were killed. Approximately 15-20% of both domestic and international bookings have shifted from Kashmir to Himachal's popular destinations including Manali, Shimla and Dharamshala; however, the surge in footfall is not as expected as tourists have adopted a 'wait-and-watch' policy amid prevailing uncertainties and hostilities between India and Pakistan. Ashwani Bamba, president of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Kangra, told TNIE that, after the terror attack, tour operators and potential tourists inquired for booking in Himachal and Uttarakhand and that they expected the surge to be significant. But, actually only 15-20% of tourists shifted from J&K to Himachal and the rest probably prefer to not venture out during this summer season owing to the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. Thus, the occupancy of hotels across the state at present is around 40% only, the same as last year. Bookings that were shifted were that of tourist groups traveling from Maharashtra, Gujarat and other states, not the immediate bookings in Kashmir which had gotten cancelled, he said. Bamba added that, in Himachal, Manali had the maximum number of shifted bookings at about 20%, while Dharamsala, Dalhousir and Shimla had much fewer. He said that advance bookings had already been made for the IPL matches in Dharamsala. Kashmir tourism stumbles after Pahalgam terror attack, but industry leaders remain hopeful Mohinder Seth, president of Himachal Pradesh Tourism Stakeholders Association, said that tourists are adopting a wait and watch policy due to India-Pakistan tensions. On everyone's mind, there is only one question: What will the Union government do in the coming days? The common is just waiting for that. There were a lot of inquiries after the unfortunate incident as people got diverted from the Kashmir Valley, but the actual number of bookings are very less. In May, generally, there is about 30-40% occupancy across the state, after May 15 we are expecting that it may touch 60-70% as advance bookings are already been done, he said. This tragedy not only upended the tourism sector in Kashmir, but has also impacted the neighboring states of Himachal and Uttarakhand. Ex-President of Manali Hotel Association Mukesh Thakur said that after terror attack there was lot of expectation that the tourist rush will shift to Himachal and lot of queries had also come. But the number of booking which are less as, first, the tourists have to get their booking cancelled and take a refund and then again they will think where to go. Already as predicted that the summers will be hot this year so already there are lot of booking done in advance as far as Manali is concerned. At present around 30-40% occupancy in the hotels here and after May 15 as summer intensifies the occupancy is expected to touch more than 80% as already people have booked. Also is expected that in coming days more online bookings will be done. The tourism industry contributes 7.78 per cent to the GDP of the hill state. As per the Economic Survey report for Himachal Pradesh for 2024-25, the number of domestic visitors increased to 1.8 crore in 2024 from 56.32 lakh in 2021 while the surge in foreign tourists was 83,000 in 2024 from 5000 in 2021. On the other hand the tourism industry contributes 7.2 per cent to the GDP of Jammu and Kashmir.
'Will cause drinking water crisis': Bhupinder Singh Hooda on Haryana-Punjab water dispute
Bhupinder Singh Hooda urged a special Assembly session and all-party meeting to tackle the escalating water dispute between Punjab and Haryana, intensified by the BBMB's directive for water release. Haryana CM Saini criticized Mann's opposition, emphasizing the critical need for water and cautioning against politicizing the issue. Punjab plans a special Assembly session to propose solutions.
Business Wire India World Education Summit 2025 AsiaTodaysuccessfullyhostedthe 15th WorldEducationSummit2025 on 30th April at Hotel The Park, New Delhi. Thesummitwas graced by esteemed guests, including Raj Bhushan Choudhary, Honble Minister of State of Jal Shakti, Government of India; Nilesh Ronil Kumar, Counsellor, High Commission of the Republic of Fiji; and Mohan Singh Bisht, Deputy Speaker of Delhi Legislative Assembly. During theWorldEducationSummit2025, Raj Bhushan Chaudhary, Honble Minister of State, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India, stated, The Modi government has taken several well-planned steps to turn the vision of a developed India into reality. Special focus has been given to initiatives like the NewEducationPolicy and Digital India, which are preparing the youth to compete globally. At the same time, development is reaching every corner of the country through schemes such as support for small and medium enterprises, women empowerment, the Swachh Bharat Mission, Jal Jeevan Mission, and Har Ghar Nal Yojana. Throughout the event, educationists engaged in meaningful discussions on integrating AI into classrooms, developing student-centric learning models, and preparing educators for a tech-driven future. Speakers emphasized the need to embrace innovative teaching methods and ensure that teachers are equipped with the right tools and training to keep pace with technological advancements. Pradeep Choudhry is the active CEO of Asia Today Media, said that Education is the pillar to success, and it was an honour to have the educationists from all over India on a single platform who are working tremendously for the bright future of the youth. Education plays a crucial role in ones life and thats what makes you a good human. A special felicitation ceremony was held to recognize educators and institutions that have made significant contributions to the field ofeducation. From digital learning initiatives to inclusiveeducationmodels, thesummitcelebrated impactful work being done to transform student experiences and outcomes. The summit felicitated around Twenty educational institutions and leaders across the nation, including SRM University AP - One of The Best University With Excellent Placement of The Year-India, Johnson Grammar School ICSE & ISC Mallapur - Best Private Co-Education School of The Year-Telangna, Admissiongyan Education Consultancy - Most Trusted German Education Consultant in India, International School of Technology and Sciences For Women - One of The Best Engineering College for Women-Andhra Pradesh, Sri Siddhartha Institute of Management Studies - Most Trusted Institute of Management- Karnataka, Rathods IAS Academy - Best UPSC IAS Coaching Institute In Hyderabad, Mr. P. Venkata Ramesh - Academic Advisor of The Year, Alphores Women's Degree & Pg College - Best Womens Degree College With Academic Excellence in Telangana, Little Flower Group of Institutions - Best Group of Institute With Academic Excellence of The Year, Mere Nanhe Kadam - Best Pre-School in Jharkhand, Satluj Public School - Most Trusted Group of School of The Year, Pingaksh Foundation- Excellence in Social Work-Education, Burdwan Holy Child School - Best School With Academic Excellence of The Year-West Bengal, Ark Reflections IAS By Madhu Ram- Best UPSC Coaching Centre in Hyderabad, Sri Institute of Management Mba College - Best Rural Area Mba College in Odisha, KIIT World School - Best School for Imparting Quality Education in Delhi, Mr. Alok - Most Admired Education Consultant-Delhi, Shoobhi Foundation- Admired Computer Training Institute For Poor Student in Delhi, Shivalik Institute Of Paramedical Technology- Best Paramedical College in Chandigarh. About Asia Today Media Asia Today Media is a dynamic global media and analytical company providing research, analysis and rating services. We have been providing state of the art market research, rating and analysis for organizations of all sizes.
Women distribute sweets after Bathinda police demolish house of drug peddler
Bathinda police demolished properties of alleged drug peddlers, Ramesh Sahni and Kewal Singh, following numerous complaints from local women about rampant drug availability. SSP Amneet Kondal led the operation, razing Sahni's house in Beant Nagar and Singh's in Dhobiana Basti.
Not a drop of excess water from Bhakra dam: Punjab parties unite to block release to Haryana
CHANDIGARH: Cutting across political lines, all Punjab parties on Friday unanimously decided not to spare a single drop of additional water to Haryana from the Bhakra dam. Following an all-party meet over sharing of water with Haryana as per the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) order, leaders said an all-party delegation is likely to meet Prime Minister Modi over the standoff. The two hour meeting chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann was attended by the representatives of the seven Punjab political parties who unanimously backed the state government to decide the next course of action for safeguarding Punjabs rights on its waters. After the meeting, the CM asserted that the order to release water to Haryana was being forced upon Punjab and all parties are together on the issue of safeguarding the states waters. He said after hearing the views of all parties, the government will now prepare a plan of action. Let me reiterate that there is no politics and no different political line on the issue of safeguarding the states waters and we are all together... they will later seek time from the Prime Minister. Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar and senior BJP leader and former minister Manoranjan Kalia reiterated that Punjab had no water to spare for Haryana and this injustice will not be tolerated, while saying confrontation should have been avoided. The BJP state unit would support the state government on the issue, they said.
American woman accuses bank manager of Rs 2.5 cr fraud, says FIR not filed
Andheri-based American national, 75, says cops not filing FIR against bank wealth manager who hoodwinked her into buying property worth Rs 2.5 crore in Chandigarh and Noida; accused says her claims are baseless
Punjab parties one on forcible release of extra water to Haryana
Centre directs release of extra water to Hry; BBMB to meet today
BBMB control dispute highlights concerns over authority of water and power ministries
JJP general secretary Digvijay Chautala blames AAP, BJP govts negligence for water crisis in Haryana
NGT disposes of plea against advancing paddy transplantation date
Inclement weather threatens large stocks of unsold wheat in Punjab mandis
Water crisis: BJP says issue blown out of proportion by Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann-led AAP govt
Wont let Akshay Kumar make film on Sikh martyr Hari Singh Nalwa: Akal Takht jathedar
Police stop protesting farmers from heading towards Faridkot
ASI held for accepting Rs 15K bribe
HC seeks explanation from Punjab, PSPCL over hospital power outages
