AAP holds protest against CEC in Chandigarh, backs CJP stir call; Sisodia, other leaders detained
Punjab's ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) staged a protest in Chandigarh against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged vote theft, demanding his resignation. Led by Manish Sisodia and Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, the demonstration criticised the BJP-led Centre over detentions in Delhi ahead of the Cockroach Janata Party's Jantar Mantar protest.
People Underrate Shai Hope A Lot, Has Special Skill In Shutting Out Noise: Roston Chase
JSCA International Stadium: West Indies off-spin bowling all-rounder Roston Chase believes skipper Shai Hope does not get enough credit for evolving his batting and commended him for having the special skill of shutting out the noise after his unbeaten century inspired the visitors to a record chase against India in the second T20I on Friday night. An in-form Hope hammered an unbeaten 102 off just 45 balls as the West Indies chased down India's imposing 249/5 with six wickets in hand to level the five match series 1-1 at the JSCA International Stadium. Hope had previously led the West Indies chase down 353 by hitting an unbeaten 162 in the third ODI against India in New Chandigarh last week. I think about Shai Hope, people underrate him a lot. But Shai Hope is a guy that he can blank out a lot of noise and just focus on what he has to do and I think that's his special skill. Because when everything seems to be going wrong, he's still out there giving his best and performing for the team, Chase said to reporters at the conclusion of the game. He also dismissed the criticism that Hope bats too slowly or plays for personal milestones and described him as an exemplary professional who works tirelessly behind the scenes. Everyone knows he's great in 50-over cricket and still sometimes people don't give him the credit. They always say he either bats too slow or he bats for himself. He puts in the hard work and he's the ultimate professional. He tries to tick every box and do the right things all the time. He also revealed about the efforts Hope makes in the gym, which helped transform from a slow starter into a power-hitter. He's done a lot of gym work to make himself stronger in terms of hitting the ball over the ropes. He also practises a lot of range hitting to get in those strong positions. Speaking about the mammoth 120-run partnership between Hope and Sherfane Rutherford (84 off 37 balls), Chase said, To chase 250 in any conditions, any ball in attack, I think that was a tremendous effort. I think it's a record chase for us. It was just a great feeling and it came out in the celebration. On his own bowling, which saw him pick 3-24, with his scalps being Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan and Shivam Dube, Chase revealed that he changed his tactic after Sanju Samson smashed his first delivery for four. I told myself probably the wicket is a bit too good to be using the wicket consistently. So I thought I had to mix up in terms of using the wicket and then going for the yorkers as well. On his own bowling, which saw him pick 3-24, with his scalps being Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan and Shivam Dube, Chase revealed that he changed his tactic after Sanju Samson smashed his first delivery for four. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Chandigarh Traffic Advisory: Road Diversions for Marathon on October 11
Chandigarh Traffic Police issues advisory for marathon, implementing road diversions from 5 AM to 9:30 AM on October 11. Chandigarh Traffic Advisory: Road Diversions for Marathon on October 11
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Chief Secys apology exposes employee betrayal: Punjab BJP on DA case
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 9 (IANS) With Punjab Chief Secretary KAP Sinha offering an unconditional apology before the Punjab and Haryana High Court in the ongoing dearness allowance (DA) case, state Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Kewal Singh Dhillon on Friday targeted the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government. He said the Chief Secretary's apology exposes the government's betrayal of employees. Dhillon said the BJP had consistently raised the issue of employees' pending dues and alleged that the Bhagwant Singh Mann government deliberately made mistakes in its petition before the Supreme Court against the High Court's order. He claimed that the move was aimed at delaying the matter until the Assembly elections, likely to be held in early 2027. Dhillon said the government was avoiding its responsibility. Instead of clearing employees' legitimate dues, it prolongs the legal battle, he said, adding that this was just the beginning and that more of the government's failures would come to light in the coming days. He said Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann would eventually have to apologise to employees for betraying their trust. Dhillon questioned the government's spending priorities. He said the government spends crores of rupees on advertisements but has no money to clear pending DA arrears. He accused the AAP government of failing on several fronts, including payment of DA, tackling drugs, and maintaining law and order in Punjab. Dhillon said the government made tall promises to every section of society before coming to power but failed to fulfil them. Employees now approach the courts to secure their rightful dues, he said. He added that people recognised the gap between the government's promises and its performance. Dhillon said voters would hold the AAP government accountable in the upcoming elections. He said people were questioning its unfulfilled promises, treatment of employees and failure to address Punjab's worsening situation.
PGTI Tour: Shubhankar Sharma retains lead in Kapil Dev Invitational Tour Championship
Digital Desk | Greater Noida, Oct 9 (IANS) Shubhankar Sharma returned an even-par 72 to retain a two-shot lead after the third round of the INR 2 crore Kapil Dev Invitational Tour Championship at the Jaypee Greens Golf & Spa Resort in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, on Friday. The 30-year-old Chandigarh golfer (68-65-72), who began the day with a four-stroke advantage, mixed five birdies with three bogeys and a double bogey to remain at 11-under 205 heading into the final round. Bengalurus Manoj S (70-71-66) and Italys Michele Ortolani (72-70-65) emerged as Shubhankars closest challengers at nine-under 207. Manoj climbed from sixth to tied second after making six birdies in a bogey-free 66. Ortolani rose from seventh overnight with a blemish-free seven-under 65, the joint-lowest score of the day. Last years PGTI Order of Merit champion Yuvraj Sandhu (71-69-69) of Chandigarh made a three-under 69 to occupy fourth place at seven-under 209. Shubhankar began strongly, making four birdies on the front nine before adding another on the 10th. However, he dropped three bogeys and a double-bogey on the closing stretch that reduced his lead from his overnight four strokes to two. It was an up-and-down day, Shubhankar said. I started strongly and made four birdies on the front nine, including gains on the second, fourth, and seventh, before adding another on the 10th. The back nine was disappointing because I missed a few opportunities coming in and dropped some shots. However, Im still playing good golf and have plenty to look forward to tomorrow. Hopefully, I can carry the momentum from todays front nine through all 18 holes in the final round, he added. Chandigarhs Brashwarpal Singh (72-65-73) and Bengalurus Khalin Joshi (72-67-71) shared fifth place at six-under 210. Joshi, a four-time winner on the DP World PGTI this season, began the week second in the Race to DP World India Championship. Current Race to the India Championship leader Saptak Talwar (75-72-72) climbed from tied 31st to tied 25th at three-over 219. The Pro-Am on Friday was won by the team consisting of professional Tapendra Ghai and amateur Prem Duggal. The Pro-Am winning team had a total of 48 Stableford Points.
ISL 2026-27: Punjab FC announce squad, include 10 academy graduates
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 9 (IANS) Punjab FC announced a strong 27-member squad for the Indian Super League (ISL) 2026-27 season, which includes an established core and ten academy graduates. The team will start its ISL campaign with a home fixture on Wednesday against Odisha FC at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi. Fourteen players from last seasons ISL squad, including national team players Bijoy Varghese, Ricky Shabong, Muhammed Uvais, Nikhil Prabhu and Muhammad Suhail F, along with Arshdeep Singh, Khaiminthang Lhungdim and Leon Augustine, have been retained. Patrick Bahanack, Mickael Malsa, Diego Raposo, Alfred Planas Moya and Raphal Messi Bouli are the foreign players in the squad. The squad also includes new domestic signings Mohammad Inam and Gurkirat Singh. The team comprises 10 academy graduates, three more than last season, who were rewarded with a place in the squad for their performances in the age group leagues and the recently concluded IFA Shield, where the Shers reached the semifinals. Goalkeeper Ayush Deshwal, midfielder Manglenthang Kipgen and forwards Muhammad Suhail F and Vishal Yadav, all part of last seasons squad, are joined by defenders Ngarin Shaiza, Sohel Khan and Karish Soram; midfielders Bishu Sharma and Laishram Rishikanta Meitei; and forward Konsam Sanathoi Singh. Speaking ahead of the new campaign, Head Coach Pavlos Dermitzakis expressed his confidence in the squad and its readiness for the season: This is a squad built with a clear idea of how we want to play, and I am very happy with the balance we have. We have experience in every department, players who know this club and the league, and ten young players from our academy who have earned their place through their work every single day. The ISL has a demanding schedule, and every player in this group will have a role to play. The players have prepared well, the hunger in the dressing room is there, and we are ready to begin. The Head Coach will be supported by Assistant Coach Georgios Angelidis and Indian Assistant Coach Sankarlal Chakraborty, along with Christos Vorgiatzidis as the Strength and Conditioning Coach and Vinay Singh as the Goalkeeping Coach. All three goalkeepers from last season have been retained, with the experienced Arshdeep Singh leading the department along with youngsters Muheet Shabir and Ayush Deshwal. Bijoy Varghese, Muhammed Uvais, Suresh Meitei and Khaiminthang Lhungdim will lead the defensive lineup, along with new signing Patrick Bahanack, with academy graduates Ngarin Shaiza, Sohel Khan and Karish Soram completing a defensive unit with plenty of depth. In midfield, Punjab FC possess a dynamic blend of creativity, control, and energy. Mickal Malsa and Manglenthang Kipgen are expected to play a pivotal role in orchestrating attacking moves, with Nikhil Prabhu, Ricky Shabong and Mohammad Inam offering stability in the middle of the pitch. Bishu Sharma and Rishikanta Meitei, who caught the attention with their performances in the IFA Shield, will bring youthful energy and exciting football to the side. The forward line carries both variety and attacking promise. The experienced Raphal Messi Bouli has started his life in Punjab FC with three goals and three assists in the IFA Shield, while the other foreign signings, Diego Raposo and Alfred Planas Moya, have also started the season well. Muhammad Suhail, one of the most exciting talents of the country, will add pace in the wings, while the versatile Leon Augustine can be relied upon in any given situation. Local lad Gurkirat Singh, along with under-20 Indian international Vishal Yadav and Sanathoi Singh, will provide valuable options for the side. Punjab FC squad for Indian Super League 2026-27: Goalkeepers: Arshdeep Singh, Muheet Shabir, Ayush Deshwal Defenders: Khaiminthang Lhungdim, Ngarin Shaiza, Jephthe Patrick Gerard Bahanack, Mohammed Sohel Khan, Bijoy Varghese, Nongmaikapam Suresh Meitei, Muhammed Uvais Moyikkal, Karish Soram Midfielders: Naravi Nikhil Jayantha Prabhu, Mickal Ramon Vincent Malsa, Ricky John Shabong, Bishu Sharma, Laishram Rishikanta Meitei, Manglenthang Kipgen, Mohammad Inam Forwards: Raphael Eric Messi Bouli, Diego Henrique Oliveira Raposo, Alfred Planas Moya, Leon Augustine, Muhammad Suhail F, Bikash Singh Sagolsem, Konsam Sanathoi Singh, Vishal Yadav, Gurkirat Singh
BJP to hold protest against AAP govt in Chandigarh on October 10 over corruption, rising crime
Chandigarh [India], October 9 (ANI) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will hold a protest against the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Chandigarh on Saturday over issues of corruption, rising crime and the drug menace. The protest is expected to see the participation of senior BJP leaders from the state, including party in-charge Satish Poonia, along with other prominent leaders and party functionaries. Through the protest, the party aims to highlight these issues and hold the state government accountable for its handling of key public concerns. Senior leaders are expected to lead the demonstration, with party workers participating to register their opposition to the AAP government
BJP to protest against AAP in Chandigarh on 10 October over corruption
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Drugs MDMA worth 1.58 crore seized in Mangaluru, three arrested
The Mangaluru police said the trio arrested by the CCB had procured the MDMA from Chandigarh
CCBSS Senior Assistant Recruitment 2026
Chandigarh City Bus Services Society (CCBSS) has published the Recruitment 2026 notification for the post of Senior Assistant. The offline application process will be conducted from 01 October 2026 to 15 October 2026. For complete details, candidates can visit chdctu.gov.in.
Gaurav Yadav Appointed Regular Punjab DGP After High Court Rap
CHANDIGARH, Oct 9: The Punjab Government on Friday appointed 1992-batch IPS officer Gaurav Yadav as the regular Director General of Police (DGP), ending a prolonged period of uncertainty over the states top police post and granting him a minimum two-year tenure. The appointment came days after the Punjab and Haryana High Court questioned the delay [] The post Gaurav Yadav Appointed Regular Punjab DGP After High Court Rap appeared first on Northlines .
Mann govt makes Gaurav Yadav regular DGP of Punjab after serving as acting chief since 2022
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 9 (IANS) The Punjab government on Friday appointed 1992-batch IPS officer Gaurav Yadav as the regular Director General of Police (DGP) of Punjab, issuing an official notification and ending the prolonged arrangement of having an officiating police chief. Yadav, 57, who has been heading the Punjab Police as officiating DGP since July 2022, was selected from a panel of three senior IPS officers recommended by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The other two officers on the panel were Sharad Satya Chauhan and Harpreet Singh Sidhu. The appointment concludes a lengthy selection process that had remained pending for several months after the UPSC forwarded its panel to the state government in July. The issue had also come under judicial scrutiny. On October 1, the Punjab and Haryana High Court directed the state government to take an appropriate decision on appointing a regular DGP and sought a compliance affidavit from Chief Secretary K.A.P. Sinha by October 13. Yadav was initially assigned additional charge of the state police chief in July 2022, when the then DGP, V.K. Bhawra, proceeded on leave. At the time, Yadav was serving as Special DGP (Administration) and was also associated with the office of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. During his tenure as officiating DGP, Yadav led the state police force amid continuing challenges involving drug trafficking, gangster networks and law and order. Tackling organised crime, strengthening the anti-drug campaign and improving policing have remained key priorities for the state police. On consideration of the panel received from the Union Public Service Commission, the Governor of Punjab is pleased to appoint Shri Gaurav Yadav IPS as Director General of Police (Head of Police Force), Punjab, reads the order signed by Alok Shekhar, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Home Affairs. It says Yadavs tenure will be for a minimum of two years from the date he assumes charge. It refers to the Supreme Courts directions dated September 22, 2006, and July 3, 2018, in the Prakash Singh and Others vs Union of India and others case on police reforms. His appointment as regular DGP formalises his position at the helm of the Punjab Police after more than four years in the officiating role. The development is also significant for the states police administration, which had faced questions over the prolonged continuation of an additional-charge arrangement.
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 9 (IANS) Supreme Court judge, Justice Sheel Nagu, on Friday recused himself from hearing the Punjab government's plea challenging the Punjab and Haryana High Court's order directing a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into allegations of corruption involving Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's Officer on Special Duty (OSD) Rajvir Ghuman and others. A Bench of Justices Dipankar Datta and Sheel Nagu was to hear the matter when Justice Datta observed that the case could not be heard by Justice Nagu. The Justice Datta-led Bench said it would sign an order directing that the matter be placed before the Chief Justice of India (CJI) for the constitution of another Bench. CJI Surya Kant, who is the master of the roster, will constitute a fresh Bench to hear the Punjab government's plea. The development comes a day after the Supreme Court adjourned the hearing on the Punjab government's plea till Friday, after Justice Datta said the case file had reached the Bench late and Justice Nagu had not had the opportunity to examine the papers. During Thursday's hearing, senior advocate Vikas Singh, appearing for the Punjab government, had sought protection against any precipitative action in the meantime. However, the Justice Datta-led Bench questioned how it could pass an interim order without examining the case file. When we haven't read the file, how can we? it had remarked. The Punjab government has challenged the High Court's October 5 order directing the CBI to take over the investigation into allegations of corruption arising from three letters written by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav. The High Court had directed the CBI to register a case and submit a status report within two months, while asking the Punjab government and police to extend full cooperation to the central investigating agency. The ED had claimed that Ghuman and his associates, Nitin Gohal and Bir Devinder, were interfering in administrative transfers and postings as well as government tenders, and had called for the registration of an FIR. After the Punjab Police did not register an FIR on the basis of the ED's communications, advocate Nikhil Saraf approached the Punjab and Haryana High Court through a Public Interest Litigation (PIL), seeking an independent probe by the CBI. The petition alleged that the communications contained serious allegations concerning persons linked to the Punjab Chief Minister's Office and sought a fair investigation free from the influence of the Punjab Police and Punjab Vigilance. The CBI has already registered an FIR in the matter and initiated an investigation pursuant to the High Court's directions. The agency also conducted searches at eight locations across Chandigarh and Punjab on Tuesday, including the Chief Minister's camp office in Chandigarh and premises linked to Ghuman in Sangrur and Mohali. On Wednesday, Ghuman and other associates were summoned to appear before the CBI's Chandigarh office in connection with the probe.
Playing against Mumbai at Wankhede is a challenge, but Im ready for it
Samant, who guided Mumbai to their Vijay Hazare Trophy triumph in 2018-19 as head coach, joined the Manan Vohra-led Chandigarh team in Mumbai last evening.
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BJP launching election campaign through investigative agencies, says Punjab CM
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 8 (IANS) Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday hit out at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) raid at his camp office here, saying it signals that the state elections will be held on time, and accusing the BJP of launching its election campaign in the state through investigative agencies. Pointing to similar raids ahead of elections in Delhi, West Bengal and Chhattisgarh, Mann said no amount of raids would yield even a rupee of corruption against the Aam Aadmi Party government, asserting that he had entered politics to serve Punjabis, not to loot Punjab. The CBI search at the Chief Minister's Camp Office itself means that the Punjab Assembly elections will be held on time. The BJP has started preparing for the elections in Punjab and has chosen to begin its election campaign through the CBI, Chief Minister Mann told the media. The Chief Minister said that the BJP was trying to create fear and tarnish the image of an elected government through central investigative agencies. But no matter how many raids they conduct, they will not find even a single rupee of corruption with us. We are neither afraid of these actions nor will we allow them (BJP) to divert us (AAP) from our commitment to the people of Punjab. We have entered politics to serve Punjabis, not to loot Punjab, he added. Chief Minister Mann said, Our politics is about giving people their rights, creating employment, strengthening public services and putting Punjab back on the path of progress. We have come into politics with a commitment to serve the people and transform the state. He added that the people of Punjab had repeatedly rejected politics based on fear and intimidation. They (BJP) can conduct raids, send agencies and create pressure, but they cannot raid the hearts of Punjabis or silence their voice. The people of Punjab will continue to stand with truth and development, he said.
Indri launches Ruby Port Cask Diwali Collectors Edition 2026, limited to 600 bottles
The expression will be available from mid-October across Gurugram, Chandigarh and Bengaluru, priced as a premium collectible
Shubhankar Sharma opens four-shot lead in Kapil Dev Invitational Tour Championship
Digital Desk | Greater Noida, Oct 8 (IANS) Shubhankar Sharma fired a seven-under 65 to establish a four-shot lead after the second round of the INR 2 crore Kapil Dev Invitational Tour Championship at the Jaypee Greens Golf & Spa Resort in Greater Noida on Thursday. The 30-year-old Chandigarh golfer (68-65), who began the day two strokes behind overnight leader Shaurya Bhattacharya, made an eagle, seven birdies and two bogeys to reach 11-under 133. A two-time winner on the DP World Tour, Shubhankar returned to the winners circle at the Boulders Classic on the PGTI in April, ending an eight-year wait for a professional title. Chandigarhs Brashwarpal Singh (72-65) matched Shubhankar for the lowest score of the day. His seven-under 65 featured eight birdies and a solitary bogey as he surged from tied 11th overnight to second place at seven-under 137. Overnight leader Shaurya Bhattacharya (66-72) of Delhi slipped to third at six-under 138 after an even-par 72 containing three birdies and three bogeys. Bengalurus Khalin Joshi (72-67), a four-time winner on the DP World PGTI this season, climbed from tied 11th to fourth at five-under 139. His 67 featured an eagle on the par-five fourth, five birdies and two bogeys. Joshi entered the week second in the Race to DP World India Championship. Shubhankar was particularly encouraged by the control he displayed with his ball-striking after struggling to bring the different parts of his game together in recent weeks. I played really well and felt very solid throughout the round, he said. My ball-striking had not been at its best over the past few weeks, even though there was not much wrong with my game. Today, everything came together. I hit the ball exactly where I wanted, shaped shots both ways and felt in complete control. I could have holed a few more putts, but Im very pleased with the day, he said. The highlight of Shubhankars round came on the par-five fourth. After finding the left half of the fairway with his drive, he struck a six-iron from approximately 212 yards to 18 feet and converted the eagle putt. The putt just caught the left edge, he said. Most of my shots came off exactly as I had visualised them, and that was the most encouraging part. Shubhankar continued creating opportunities throughout the round, including on the final hole, where he struck his approach to about five feet but missed the birdie putt. There were several shots like that today, he said. Those are positive signs for this tournament and also for my preparations for next week. Shubhankar also praised DP World PGTI President Kapil Dev for his contribution to the growth of the DP World PGTI. Since Kapil Dev became President, more sponsors have come on board, while the organisation, social media and player facilities have continued to improve, Shubhankar said. The introduction of a players lounge is one example of the many positive changes on tour. Shubhankar, who played alongside Kapil in a Pro-Am in Hyderabad recently, said their shared Chandigarh connection made their interactions particularly easy. Despite being one of Indias biggest sporting icons, he constantly looks for ways to promote golf and move the sport forward, he said. Everyone in Chandigarh calls him Paaji, so speaking with him feels very easy. I have tremendous respect for everything he is doing for the game. Last seasons PGTI Order of Merit winner Yuvraj Sandhu (71-69) occupied fifth place at four-under 140. Current Race to DP World India Championship leader Saptak Talwar (75-72) climbed from tied 36th to tied 31st at three-over 147. The Pro-Am on Thursday was won by the team consisting of professional Shubhankar Sharma and amateur Rajeev Gupta. Their score was 48 stableford points.
SCs repoll order in 50 wards puts Punjab govt on the spot: BJP
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 8 (IANS) Former Punjab Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Ashwani Sharma on Thursday said the Supreme Court's decision to cancel and order fresh elections in 50 Municipal Corporation and Municipal Council wards in Patiala and Moga districts had raised serious questions about the functioning of the state Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government. He said the decision had also exposed the government's alleged high-handedness during the local body elections. In a statement issued here, Sharma said the Supreme Court-appointed fact-finding committee's report highlighted serious irregularities during the nomination process, including preventing candidates from filing nominations, snatching, tearing, or destroying nomination papers, and threatening candidates. The committee found irregularities in the election process in 28 wards of Patiala, all 15 wards of Baghapurana and seven wards of Dharamkot in Moga district. Following this, the Supreme Court ordered fresh elections in these wards within six weeks. Sharma said that in a democracy, elections are not merely about casting votes but also about ensuring a level playing field and equal opportunity for every candidate. He alleged that the AAP government misused its power to suppress the voices of Opposition candidates. He said the Supreme Court's decision to constitute a monitoring committee headed by a retired High Court judge and order videography of the entire process, from nomination to polling, made it clear that the electoral process required close supervision. The BJP leader said the people of Punjab would not tolerate any compromise with democracy or with the conduct of free and fair elections. Meanwhile, state BJP president Kewal Singh Dhillon, in a separate statement, said that the moment the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) began investigating alleged corruption in the AAP government, the Delhi-based gang suddenly started claiming that Punjab's federal structure was under threat. He said the government's argument before the Supreme Court that fabricated cases were being raised because of the Punjab Assembly elections was proof that the AAP was merely seeking political excuses to evade accountability. Dhillon said AAP leaders had been claiming in the media that the CBI investigation amounted to interference in the federal structure. This government initially made these arguments in the media to mislead the people and is now repeating the same hollow arguments before the Supreme Court, he said.
Dismiss poll commissioner after SC sets aside elections in Punjab, demands Akali Dal
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 8 (IANS) The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) on Thursday urged Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria to dismiss State Election Commissioner Raj Kamal Chaudhari following the Supreme Court's observations that the December 2024 nomination process and subsequent municipal elections were severely affected by violence, intimidation and obstruction. SAD leader Daljit Singh Cheema also demanded that responsibility be fixed on all officials who allegedly assisted the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in manipulating the municipal elections and called for exemplary action against them. Giving details, Cheema said a court-appointed fact-finding commission headed by former Punjab and Haryana High Court judge Justice Nirmaljit Kaur had confirmed that Opposition candidates were physically assaulted, prevented from filing nominations, or subjected to forced withdrawals and bogus voting. He alleged that Raj Kamal Chaudhari had ignored complaints regarding the alleged misuse of civil and police machinery during the elections. Now it has been proven beyond doubt that the State Election Commissioner murdered grassroots democracy under his watch. He does not have any right to remain in office, Cheema said. Welcoming the Supreme Court's decision, Cheema said the apex court's appointment of a monitoring committee headed by a retired judge to supervise re-elections in 28 wards in Patiala, all 15 wards in Baghapurana and seven wards in Dharamkot reflected a lack of confidence in the State Election Commissioner's ability to conduct free and fair elections. The SAD leader also criticised Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann over the registration of cases against farmers accused of burning paddy stubble. He said the Chief Minister had earlier stated that no action would be taken against such farmers and that they would receive Rs 1,500 per acre to manage stubble. Cheema alleged that surveillance drones were now being used to identify stubble-burning incidents and cases were being registered against farmers. Seeking clarification from the Chief Minister, Cheema said farmers wanted to know whether any notification had been issued regarding the promised Rs 1,500 per acre compensation and when the amount would be released. He alleged that the AAP government had failed to provide farmers with either adequate machinery for stubble management or compensation.
Development Commission has become a loot centre: Punjab BJP
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 8 (IANS) Former Punjab Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Sunil Jakhar on Thursday staged a protest outside the Punjab Development Commission office here, alleging that the institution had become a centre of loot by sidelining constitutional institutions and undermining the legal framework. He described it as a hub of corruption in Punjab and alleged that a group of on-state actors was plundering the state while weakening its governance structure. Speaking to the media outside the commission's office, Jakhar alleged that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had mortgaged Punjab to Arvind Kejriwal. He further alleged that Kejriwal had outsourced the task of running the commission to his appointees, who were being paid substantial salaries from the state exchequer. Accusing the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government of functioning like a corporation, Jakhar alleged that the commission had been transformed into a mechanism for large-scale misuse of public resources. Rather than serving as the Punjab Development Commission, he claimed, it had become a commission for looting Punjab. Jakhar further alleged that the commission had appointed preferred individuals in disregard of rules and legal procedures and paid them salaries higher than those of senior government officials. He claimed that the commission's appointees were collectively being paid around Rs 2 crore per month in salaries. Jakhar also alleged that the commission had collected personal data of Punjab residents under various pretexts. Referring to the collection of data relating to drug use, he alleged that extensive personal information had been gathered and could potentially be misused for political or commercial purposes. He termed the exercise highly illegal. Jakhar further claimed that the commission did not have a single Punjabi member who fully understood the state's local conditions. He alleged that it had neither held substantive discussions with Punjab's legislators and ministers nor sought their advice while preparing development plans. Questioning the commission's functioning, Jakhar said meaningful development planning could not take place without consultation with elected representatives and stakeholders. While acknowledging the academic qualifications of the appointees, he alleged that their actions were not serving the interests of Punjab.
Sharma Takes Commanding Lead At Kapil Dev Invitational
Shubhankar Sharma fired a seven-under 65 in the second round of the Kapil Dev Invitational Tour Championship, establishing a four-shot lead. The Chandigarh golfer reached 11-under 133, with Brashwarpal Singh in second place and overnight leader Shaurya Bhattacharya slipping to third.
Ranji Trophy: Siddesh Lad, Ayush Mhatre Carry Weight Of Huge Legacy As Mumbai Chase 43rd Title
Mumbai Cricket Association: With 42 titles in their kitty, the current generation of Mumbai cricketers have to shoulder the weight of a humongous legacy when they step into the field for every Ranji Trophy edition. Having gone without a title in the last couple of seasons, the domestic giants are getting ready for their season-opener on Sunday, with captain Siddhesh Lad and his deputy Ayush Mhatre getting into new roles. Lad will handle captaincy on a permanent basis for the season for the first time, having led sporadically on various occasions, while Mhatre, the Under-19 World Cup-winning captain, is stepping into the vice-captain's role for the first time. Both Lad and Mhatre on Thursday admitted that Mumbai's unmatched dominance in the top domestic red-ball competition is something they have to live with, but felt that the pressure was something they can carry because of their experience and the preparations they have made for the season. Given Mumbais rich history, the 42 Ranji Trophy titles we have won and the legacy of players who have represented the team, there will always be pressure when you wear the Mumbai jersey. But as a unit, we want to embrace that pressure rather than run away from it. We understand the history and culture that come with representing Mumbai, and we are looking forward to the season, Lad said in a pre-season press conference organised by the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) on Thursday. Mumbai will open their campaign in Group D in the national cricket championship against Chandigarh on Sunday and will travel to Bilaspur in Himachal for their next game starting on October 18. Lad and Mhatre will lead a young and energised Mumbai side which begins its campaign against Chandigarh at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday. The team is a bit short on experience, with former India captain Ajinkya Rahane announcing his retirement at the end of the previous season and the selectors deciding not to include Suryakumar Yadav. Lad said Rahane's experience would be missed but felt he can always pick up the phone to discuss things with him if necessary. He was diplomatic in dealing with the SKY issue and said the decision was taken by the selectors and he would focus on the 15 players he has been handed. Mumbai do have a couple of team combination issues to sort out as all-rounder Shardul Thakur is still recovering from an injury and is sure to miss the opening match and is also doubtful for the second game against Himachal Pradesh. Lad said they will take confidence from the performances of pacer Tushar Deshpande, Tanush Kotian, Shams Mulani and Sarfaraz Khan. Mulani and Deshpande were part of the India A squad that played Australia A at home, while Sarfaraz turned out for Rest of India in their win over Jammu & Kashmir in the Irani Cup match. In the pre-season press conference at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday, Lad and Mhatre shared insights into the teams preparations, tactical approach and ambitions for the upcoming red-ball season. Following his elevation to a leadership role, Mhatre elaborated on taking up responsibility and working alongside the seniors. He said: Being named vice-captain of Mumbai is a big responsibility and a very proud moment for me, especially given the stature of the team and what the Ranji Trophy means to Mumbai cricket. The support I have received from the team has been excellent, and I have never felt like I was treated differently because I am a youngster. Siddesh Lad has supported me a lot and always made me feel comfortable within the team. Mhatre, who has played for Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL), said he has picked up things about leadership by talking to former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni. I have also learnt the importance of staying calm on the field. We have always seen how Mahendra Singh Dhoni remains calm, and one of the things I have learnt from him is that anger may last for five minutes, but decisions taken in anger can often be wrong. Once you calm down, you can think better. I have tried to follow that approach, stay composed on the field and make better decisions for myself and the team, he said. Mumbais 16-member squad blends experienced domestic campaigners with emerging young talent, with the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sarfaraz Khan and Musheer Khan adding depth and pedigree as the side begins its pursuit of a record-extending 43rd Ranji Trophy title. Captain Lad brings extensive First-Class experience to the leadership group, having amassed over 5,600 runs across his domestic career. A key middle-order presence during the 202526 season, Lad provided Mumbai with stability and resilience in pressure situations. Vice-captain Mhatre continues his rapid rise in domestic cricket. The 19-year-old opening batter has scored 660 runs in 13 First-Class matches. Having returned from a hamstring injury that ruled him out earlier this year, Mhatres composure at the top of the order will be an important asset for Mumbais batting unit. Mumbai squad for first match of Ranji Trophy 2026-27: Vice-captain Mhatre continues his rapid rise in domestic cricket. The 19-year-old opening batter has scored 660 runs in 13 First-Class matches. Having returned from a hamstring injury that ruled him out earlier this year, Mhatres composure at the top of the order will be an important asset for Mumbais batting unit. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Fix infra before building high: Residents to Chandigarh administration
