Punjab BJP demands early Assembly polls (Lead)
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 29 (IANS) Punjab BJP leader Sunil Jakhar has written to the Governor, urging him to recommend to the Election Commission that the Model Code of Conduct be enforced in the state at the earliest. Citing Punjabs deteriorating law and order situation, which he said the Bhagwant Mann government had itself now acknowledged, Jakhar said this was necessary to ensure that the forthcoming Assembly elections were peaceful and fair and that people could exercise their right to vote without fear. The former state BJP chief also said the party would soon approach the Election Commission of India to demand early enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct. He alleged that if the AAP government remained in power any longer, it would worsen the situation to such an extent that holding peaceful and impartial elections in an atmosphere free from fear would become impossible. Speaking to the media here, Jakhar said an anti-drug marathon had been held annually in Abohar for several years, with thousands of young people participating in the campaign against drugs. This year, however, the government had cancelled permission for the marathon in writing, stating that the atmosphere was unfavourable and that the event could not be held because of the poor law and order situation. He said law and order had indeed deteriorated to an extremely alarming level and that no one in the state was safe. While drugs were claiming young lives, he alleged, the terror unleashed by the drug mafia had grown to such an extent that sincere voices speaking out against drugs were being silenced with bullets. He said people were being killed openly across Punjab, from the holy city of Amritsar to Tarn Taran, Khem Karan, Gurdaspur, Hargobindpur, Mansa, Abohar, Sangrur and Ludhiana, in virtually every district and town. Criticising the governments role, he alleged that police were even forcibly taking away the bodies of children who had died due to drugs. Anyone who protested against drugs or expressed their anguish before the government, he said, was either subjected to police repression or driven to suicide. Jakhar attributed these developments to what he described as a deliberate strategy of the AAP government. He said the partys own senior leader, Manish Sisodia, had revealed this approach by stating that they would use every means to win elections persuasion, inducements, punishment, division, confrontation, lies or truth. He alleged that under this strategy the government had appointed pliant officers, while criminals and gangsters were either being inducted into the party or provided protection. He further alleged that the Chief Ministers Office had itself become a hub of corruption and that Punjab was suffering the consequences of this policy.
Bizarre NHAI Signboards Confuse Commuters on Chandigarh-Hisar Highway
Delhi Crime Branch arrests three drug traffickers, recovers 1.279 kg charas
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 29 (IANS) The Delhi Police Crime Branch has arrested three drug traffickers and recovered 1.279 kg of charas from their possession during an operation in Dwarka, officials said on Thursday. The accused, identified as Navdeep Goyat alias Chotu (31), Bunty alias Banti (34) and Sandeep (30), are residents of Haryana's Jind district. The police also seized a white Tata Tiago car used by them to transport the contraband. According to the police, the accused had procured the charas from Jari in Himachal Pradesh and were transporting it to Delhi for further distribution and sale. The arrests were made on October 27 near Gate No. 10, Yashobhoomi T-Point, along Dabri-Gurugram Marg in Sector 25, Dwarka. A team of the Northern Range-II unit of the Crime Branch was conducting an Intelligence-based operation when it noticed three men standing near the car. On seeing the police approaching, the men entered the vehicle, and the driver attempted to start it. The team intervened and apprehended all three. A search led to the recovery of 879 grams of charas from Navdeep, 231 grams from Bunty and 169 grams from Sandeep. A total of 1,279 grams of the contraband was seized. A case under Sections 20(b)(ii)(C) and 25 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act was registered at the Crime Branch police station, and further investigation is underway. During interrogation, Navdeep disclosed that he had been procuring charas from Malana and Jari in Himachal Pradesh and selling it near tea stalls in Jind and Chandigarh. The police said he had resumed the activity after being released from jail in June 2026 in connection with another NDPS case. He is reportedly involved in 17 criminal cases, including three murder cases. Bunty told investigators that he had contacted Navdeep in October to procure and sell charas for monetary gain and subsequently involved Sandeep in the plan. Sandeep joined them after being promised financial gains. The three reportedly travelled to Jari in the car and were returning via Gurugram when they were intercepted in Dwarka. The operation was conducted by a team led by Inspector Pardeep Kumar under the supervision of ACP Girish Kaushik. The police said efforts were underway to establish the source of the contraband and identify other people linked to the alleged drug supply network.
Restore voting rights of 13 crore disenfranchised people, no need for rallies then: Manish Tewari
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 29 (IANS) Congress MP Manish Tewari on Thursday questioned the BJP's 'Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy march, saying that restoring the voting rights of 13 crore disenfranchised people would eliminate the need for rallies. The remarks come amid a political face-off between the BJP and the Congress, with both parties claiming to be defending democracy. As the Congress prepares to take its vote chori campaign to Ramlila Maidan on November 1, the BJP has taken its campaign to the streets of Old Delhi, organising a Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy padyatra in busy Chandni Chowk. The BJP is also holding similar marches across the country. Led by BJP President Nitin Nabin and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the march comes amid concerns raised by traders who fear that barricading, traffic diversions and possible Metro restrictions due to marches and protests during the festive shopping season could disrupt business in the capital's wholesale markets. Speaking to IANS, Tewari questioned the purpose of the BJP's march in an area that is not a designated protest sight in the national Capital. What is this padyatra even about? We are fighting for voting rights. Restore the voting rights of the 13 crore people who have been disenfranchised, and there will be no need to take out any rallies, he said. Tewari also reacted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks on the recent Member of Legislative Council (MLC) poll results, saying that every election had its own context. The context of every election is different. MLC elections have a distinct electoral constituency. In such a situation, it does not behove someone holding the office of Prime Minister to make such remarks. As I said earlier, every election has its own unique context and scope, he said. On Wednesday, PM Modi took a swipe at the Congress over MLC elections held across 28 seats in Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar and Karnataka, highlighting that the polls were conducted using ballot papers and questioning how many seats the Congress had won. However, the Nagpur MLC election result provided the Congress with an opportunity to target the BJP, including PM Modi and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis as it retained the seat in the area that houses the RSS' national headquarters. The Maharashtra results also provided a boost to the Opposition MVA, which won three of the five seats that went to polls in the state.
Chandigarh waste data conflicts with HC filings
Chandigarh municipal corporation has faced scrutiny due to conflicting affidavits regarding waste management practices. Recent filings indicate discrepancies in the daily generation and processing of garbage over the years. The corporation has reported varying figures for both dry and wet waste without clear reconciliations. Public concerns arise concerning the volume of waste not being processed and its ultimate destination.
AICTE-validated distance-mode engineering degrees cannot bar consideration for promotion: HC
Man opens fire on car suspecting occupants to be gangsters; one killed
Disrespect of Sikh articles of faith in Mansa shameful: Giani Gargaj
HC dismisses plea against termination of PCA life membership, says dispute is private in nature
Prove it was murder: Mansa farmers wife to police, gets silence in return
Family questions probe into Panjab University scholars death.
Pak drone carrying pistol, heroin crashes near Attari border checkpoint
HC grants parole to murder convict to care for son with 50% disability
Amit Shah to honour police valour, lay first bricks of Chandigarhs future infrastructure.
CBI raids Punjab Medical Council building in Mohali in Jhota murder probe
Extortion threats rattle Jind traders, 3 cases reported in a fortnight
Will amend policy to help trainee medical officers get PG opportunities: Sukhu
Akal Takht jathedar seeks UK recovery networks help to tackle Punjabs drug crisis
AAP claims 1,495% rise in Majithias assets during SAD-BJP rule, cites chargesheet
Instagram brothers foreign gift costs Panchkula woman 7 lakh.
WPD dissolves existing district-level organisational structure
Disrespect of Sikh articles of faith, turbans in Mansa shameful: Gargaj
As cops refuse to help, man sits on dharna outside home of wifes lover
Man gets life for killing labourer over wages
Advocate moves NHRC after minors paraded with shaved heads in Hisar
VB files final chargeshgeet against SADs Majithia in assets case
Daughter murdered in US, mom writes to MEA for safety of grandson
Vigilance chargesheet details Rs 737cr money trail linked to Majithia: AAP
HC summons Kasauli SDM over delay in probe into allegations of illegal construction, tree felling
HP govt approves engagement of 3,100 teachers for CBSE schools
Daljits wife says family did not consent to postmortem; police deny claim
Untimely rain delays paddy harvest, narrows wheat-sowing window, raises farm-fire risk
CRPF jawan alleges assault after flagging drug paraphernalia at Patiala hospital; police deny charge
Punjab Vigilances chargesheet against Majithia reveals money trail of Rs 736.96 crore: AAP
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 28 (IANS) The Punjab Vigilance Bureaus filing of a 40,000-page chargesheet in the case against Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia had brought a Rs 736.96 crore money trail, shell companies and liquor businesses under scrutiny, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) media in-charge Baltej Pannu said on Wednesday. He said the investigation had traced unaccounted assets and funds, with Majithias assets showing an increase of 1,495 per cent during the Akali-BJP regime from 2007 to 2017. Recalling that former Enforcement Directorate (ED) officer Niranjan Singh was transferred overnight after Majithias name emerged in the drug investigation, Pannu said those responsible for pushing the states youth into the drug menace must be held accountable. He asserted that the Bhagwant Mann government would not retreat from its commitment to make Punjab drug-free and corruption-free, and that the legal proceedings would continue in accordance with the law. Pannu told the media here that the investigation has traced financial irregularities and a money trail amounting to Rs 736.96 crore. He challenged those describing the action as a political vendetta to examine the chargesheet and statements of nearly 300 witnesses. The 40,000-page chargesheet and statements of nearly 300 witnesses contain the details of the investigation. Those calling this action a political vendetta should read the chargesheet and examine the evidence for themselves, he said. The APP leader said the case was registered under Sections 13 (1) (e) and 13 (2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and Section 120-B, in connection with the first information report of June 25, 2025, registered at the Police Station of the Vigilance Bureau in Mohali. He said the investigation concerned the accumulation of disproportionate assets between March 2, 2007, and March 31, 2017, during the Akali-BJP government. The Vigilance Bureau has traced Rs 736.96 crore in unaccounted assets and funds, while the total financial irregularities and money trail identified during the investigation amount to Rs 736.96 crore. These figures reflect the scale of the financial transactions examined by the investigating agency, added Pannu.
Organise thikri pehra to curb drug trafficking in Punjab: Harsimrat Badal
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 28 (IANS) Calling on womenfolk to turn their villages and neighbourhoods into the first line of defence against Punjabs drug menace, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader and Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal on Wednesday urged the partys womens wing, Maavan Dheeyan Di Fauj, to organise traditional thikri pehra (community night patrols) in every village and mohalla to curb drug trafficking. Addressing a gathering of women at a Maavan Dheeyan Di rally in Kharar town, near here, she said the fight against drugs was deeply personal for the women of Punjab, who had borne the brunt of the crisis as families struggled with its devastating consequences. For the women of Punjab, ending the scourge of drugs is their number one priority, she said, adding that SAD had launched a women-led campaign against drugs because women had suffered the most from the menace. Urging the gathering to stand united against drug traffickers, she called on women to identify those allegedly involved in selling drugs and those suspected of protecting them. She said community vigilance and collective action could help expose the drug trade and hold those responsible accountable. The SAD leader said the party, if voted to power in 2027, would establish a special task force headed by a woman Director General of Police to take on the drug mafia. She also promised stricter laws, including a proposed 10-year denial of bail to drug traffickers and confiscation of their properties, with the proceeds intended to compensate victims. Harsimrat Badal also raised concerns over what she described as the growing intimidation of people speaking out against drugs. Referring to the reported removal of Daljit Singhs body by police while his mortal remains were being taken to a protest site, she alleged that his family members were assaulted when they tried to stop the police. She linked the incident to the ongoing struggle for justice by the family of Parvinder Singh Jhota, an anti-drug campaigner, accusing the Aam Aadmi Party government of failing to curb trafficking and protect complainants and whistleblowers. She also referred to the reported detention of a CISF constable who had raised allegations of drug use at Government Rajindra Hospital in Patiala, saying such incidents could discourage people from speaking out against the drug trade. Harsimrat Badal criticised Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for allegedly refusing to meet Jhotas family, claiming that the government had failed to demonstrate the urgency the situation demanded. She further cited the cases of Mohanjit Singh, who she alleged was tortured after protesting against the drug trade, and Gulzar Singh of Dirba, who she said died by suicide after being harassed for questioning the alleged sale of chitta, a colloquial term for heroin.
1 dead, 2 injured as 2 men open fire in Punjabs Tarn Taran
Punjab govt seeks UK investment in organic farming, dairy technology
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 28 (IANS) Punjab Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian on Wednesday rolled out the red carpet for British investment in organic farming, packhouses, cold chains and dairy technology and to take homegrown brands like Verka and Five Rivers to the UK market. Khudian, along with Principal Secretary (Food Processing) Rakhee Gupta Bhandari, held deliberations here with a British delegation comprising Deputy High Commissioner Alba Smeriglio, First Secretary Trade (British High Commission) Dr Nicholas Gribit and Senior Trade Adviser Anup Narayan to deepen bilateral cooperation in organic farming, dairy, crop residue management and quality certification in other sectors. Welcoming the delegation, Minister Khudian said the welfare of farmers will remain the cornerstone of any international partnership and assured full support from the state government for collaborations. Underlining Punjab's pivotal role as India's food basket- spanning wheat, basmati rice, kinnow, peers, litchi, milk and dairy products, seed potatoes and carrots- he said the state offers a thriving food processing ecosystem. Punjab brings a strong agricultural base, established processing capabilities, recognised brands and a growing pool of innovative enterprises. Punjab ranked first in kinnow, carrot and disease-free seed potato production, second in pears and third in peas and honey, while topping the country in per capita milk availability at 1.28 litres per day. We see scope to connect these strengths with UK market demand, technology, investment and expertise, creating value for businesses while strengthening opportunities for farmers and food-processing enterprises, the minister said. Outlining investment opportunities, Khudian highlighted technology transfer and brand collaboration, citing state-backed brands as win-win models where Punjab's processing strengths can leverage UK technology and market access. The minister invited UK collaboration for shared infrastructure including pack-houses and pre-cooling facilities, cold-chain connectivity, technology transfer for modern processing equipment and product innovation in value-added uses of kinnow peels and by-products.
Panjab University Project Associate I Recruitment 2026
Panjab University, Chandigarh has released the official notification for the recruitment of 2 Project Associate-I posts. The last date to submit the offline application is 06 November 2026. Further details are available at puchd.ac.in.
HM Amit Shah to inaugurate Martyrs Memorial in Ambala on Nov 5
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 28 (IANS) Haryanas Transport Minister Anil Vij on Wednesday said that Union Home Minister Amit Shah will inaugurate the Aazadi ki Pehli Ladai ka Shaheed Smarak in Ambala Cantonment on November 5. It has been built at a cost of approximately Rs 800 crore. After the inauguration, he will address a public meeting in Gandhi Ground. It is significant to attend the rally as people will be participating in an event honouring a martyrs memorial, said the minister. The Martyrs Memorial will be opened to the public from November 6. Vij said the government has issued instructions for the visit of students from schools and educational institutions across the state to the memorial to educate them that the freedom struggle began in Ambala before Meerut in 1857. He urged people to attend the rally at Gandhi Ground in Ambala Cantonment in large numbers as it will mark the inauguration of a national-level memorial. Vij was addressing BJP office-bearers at Ambala Club in Ambala at a meeting chaired by state party President Archana Gupta to review preparations for the Martyrs Memorial programme. Minister Vij said he had been working for the construction of the Martyrs Memorial for the past 25-30 years. He said books taught that the Congress fought the Independence struggle, but when he read, he found that in 1857, before the Congress was even founded, an armed struggle for Independence was fought across India and it began in Ambala. He said documents showed that in 1857 at 9 a.m., 10 hours before the uprising in Meerut, the 60th and 5th Native Infantry regiments sounded the bugle of the freedom struggle in Ambala Cantonment. Yet history never remembered those heroes who were tied to trees and shot, or those upon whom oil mills were operated; the nation never paid tribute to those martyrs, which is painful. The martyrs of 1857 were also sons of the motherland who joined the struggle for Independence. The minister said anyone who took even one step out of their home for Independence deserves homage, whether they were a Congress member or not. Vij, who also holds the Energy portfolio, said the First War of Independence took place across the country in 1857, but no one remembered it, and no memorial existed anywhere to showcase that struggle. The minister said he stood in the Assembly several times to demand the memorials construction and that there is an official record of this. At one point, he said he even compelled the Congress government, but it did not build the memorial. However, when the BJP government came to power in 2014, it approved the construction of a national-level memorial. Vij said the complete history will be displayed in the memorial. The places where battles were fought in 1857, in Haryana, Bihar, Punjab, and elsewhere, will be presented through modern technology, showing the history of the war.
Gujarat visit goes beyond exploring investment opportunities: Haryana CM
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 28 (IANS) Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Wednesday said his two-day visit to Gujarat went beyond exploring investment opportunities, with a strong emphasis on fostering closer cooperation, mutual engagement and stronger ties between the two states. During the visit, the Chief Minister interacted with members of the Haryanvi community in Surat and Ahmedabad, where they shared their achievements, concerns and expectations. Acknowledging the issues raised during these interactions, CM Saini reiterated the Haryana governments commitment to safeguarding the interests of Haryanvis living outside the state and expanding facilities for their welfare. Addressing the Haryanvi community in Surat, the Chief Minister announced that the government would develop a dedicated online portal for the prompt and effective redressal of their grievances. The portal will enable Haryanvis residing outside the state to register their complaints and ensure their resolution within a stipulated timeframe. The initiative is expected to strengthen their connection with the Haryana government and make grievance redressal more accessible. Another significant initiative is the proposed establishment of a Haryana Bhavan in Gujarat, on the lines of the facility in Maharashtra. Steps have already been initiated in this direction. The proposed Bhavan will serve as a centre for cultural, social and administrative activities of the Haryanvi community while also acting as a cultural bridge between Haryana and Gujarat. The Chief Minister emphasised that cooperation between Haryana and Gujarat would not be confined to investment and economic opportunities but would also extend to strengthening social, cultural and people-to-people ties. He expressed confidence that the growing partnership with Gujarat, the birthplace of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, would give fresh momentum to Haryanas development journey and take the states growth story to new heights. Meanwhile, CM Saini met his Gujarat counterpart Bhupendra Patel and discussed various issues, with a focus on further strengthening coordination and cooperation between the states. Discussions were also held on sharing experiences and exploring opportunities for cooperation in various areas of development.
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 28 (IANS) Union Minister and Lok Janshakti Party (LJP-Ram Vilas) chief, Chirag Paswan, on Wednesday said that problems concerning the country's youth could only be solved through constructive dialogue, while backing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's outreach efforts towards youngsters. Paswan made the remarks during a visit to Chandigarh. Speaking to reporters, the Union Minister noted that there is esentment among the youth today. If they have problems or concerns, it is only through constructive dialogue that we can find solutions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also shares this exact vision that we should engage with the youth as much as possible, on every possible platform, so that we can move forward by understanding their perspectives, he said. Regarding the law-and-order situation in Punjab, Paswan said: This is indeed alarming. I am not saying this simply because I belong to the Opposition (in Punjab), but because I genuinely believe it. I have a deep personal connection with Punjab, as my maternal family is from here. We witness murders taking place here on a daily basis...it becomes a grave concern to see Punjab gradually falling prey to everything, from rampant drug abuse to violent criminal activities. Moreover, Chirag Paswan said that his LJP-Ram Vilas is gradually preparing itself to contest elections in Punjab. In this context, today our party's state executive committee is also meeting here. After the meeting, under the leadership of party in-charge K.P. Chaudhary sahib, the entire team will review and share the details. My perspective is always that we must engage in dialogue with the youth as much as possible. Today's program at CGC University in Mohali has been organised with the objective of interacting with young people, he said. Asserting that the youth are the country's future, the Union Minister reiterated: We can move towards any kind of solution only by holding dialogue with them. Meanwhile, Paswan criticised the Opposition for their allegations against the electoral process and the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. They are in the Opposition, so they will protest, and they are doing so. But it has yielded them no benefit. Wherever elections are held, they end up losing, he remarked.
From connectivity to long-term value, here's what Tricity buyers are prioritising in 2026
From larger homes and thoughtful design to integrated amenities, green spaces and connectivity, festive-season demand reflects evolving homebuyer priorities. In the Tricity region, which comprises Chandigarh, Panchkula and Mohali, festive-season buyers are looking beyond ownership...
Strange irony that those in power are holding rally to save democracy, says Manish Tewari
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 28 (IANS) Congress MP Manish Tewari on Wednesday criticised the BJP's 'Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy' padayatra, calling it a 'strange irony' that the ruling party was holding a rally while the Opposition was protesting to protect voting rights. Speaking to IANS, Tewari said, It is a strange irony. The Opposition protests against the government when it does something wrong, and here, the Opposition is protesting to protect voting rights. It is unusual that those in power are holding a rally. What are they holding a rally for? If you want to save the Constitution, restore the voting rights of the 13 crore people who have been deprived of them, and the Constitution will be protected. His remarks came as BJP National President Nitin Nabin is scheduled to lead a foot march titled 'Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy' in Delhi's Chandni Chowk on Wednesday. The march is part of the party's outreach campaign amid Opposition protests over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, state BJP President Harsh Malhotra, MPs and other senior party leaders are also expected to participate in the march. The BJP's nationwide outreach assumes significance ahead of the INDIA bloc's proposed rally in Delhi on November 1. The Opposition alliance has announced a 'Vote Bachao, Desh Bachao' rally at Ramlila Maidan to protest against alleged irregularities in the ongoing SIR of electoral rolls. Tewari also expressed concern over the law and order situation in Punjab, saying the state has been facing the challenge of narco-terrorism for decades. I have maintained, and have also written about this, that Punjab has been going through an era of narco-terrorism since 1995. Just as terrorism was fought and eliminated between 1980 and 1995, Punjab must unite and collectively fight narco-terrorism, or drug-fuelled terrorism, to protect future generations, he said. Meanwhile, on Wednesday, the Punjab government reportedly denied permission for the seventh annual anti-drug marathon organised by the Jakhar Trust in Abohar, citing the prevailing law and order situation. The trust, run by the family of BJP leader Sunil Jakhar, has been organising the event for the past seven years under the slogan 'Nashon Se Door, Khelon Ki Ore', which promotes sports as an alternative to drug abuse.
Jagtar Singh Hawara gets no relief from High Court; next hearing on November 19
Chandigarh (Punjab) [India], October 28 (ANI): The Punjab and Haryana High Court on Wednesday heard the parole plea filed by Jagtar Singh Hawara, but granted no relief during the hearing. The court directed all concerned parties to file their replies with the Registry. However, no arguments could take place during the hearing. The matter has been listed for the next hearing on November 19. Jagtar Singh Hawara is in jail because he was convicted as a key conspirator in the 1995 assassination of Punjab Chief Minister Beant Singh. (ANI) Hawara was arrested on September 21, 1995, tried, and convicted for the murder of former Punjab Chief Minister Beant Singh and has remained in jail from the date of his arrest to this day; he has been incarcerated for over 28 years. The trial court, by order dated March 27, 2007, convicted Hawara and gave him the death sentence. The Punjab and Haryana High Court, by order dated October 12, 2010, modified the sentence to life imprisonment for the rest of hi...
Family seeks justice after Punjab man's suspected overdose death, Oppn targets govt over drug menace
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 28 (IANS) After the suspected death of a 35-year-old man due to a drug overdose in Punjab's Mansa district triggered a protest by his family, Opposition leaders also targeted the ruling party over its alleged failure to curb the drug menace in the state. The family of the deceased, Daljit Singh, placed his body on a main road on Tuesday and blocked traffic, demanding strict action against those allegedly involved in selling drugs in the area. The family suspects that Daljit died of a drug overdose, while police officials have said the exact cause of death will be established only after the postmortem examination. Daljit's wife, Paramjit Kaur, and his mother, Sinder Kaur, along with other relatives, alleged that drug-related deaths continue to claim lives in Punjab despite repeated assurances from the government that the menace would be brought under control. They demanded that the police identify and arrest those supplying narcotics in the locality, warning that the easy availability of drugs was putting more lives at risk. Tensions escalated during the demonstration when protesters clashed with the police. Amid the confrontation, police took away the deceased's body, further intensifying the family's anger and raising questions over the handling of the situation. Heavy police deployment was made along major roads to prevent protesters from reaching the ongoing protest site of slain anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota at Tinkoni, near the Deputy Commissioner's residence. Police set up pickets in neighbouring districts to prevent people from mobilising for protests on Wednesday. Punjab Congress president Pargat Singh, speaking to reporters, criticised the political leadership over the prevailing situation and demanded accountability from senior officials and the state government. The real issue is that Punjab is being turned into a spectacle. Both these parties are responsible for creating this situation; one is the B-team and the other is the A-team. I have always said this. The SSP should be dismissed immediately, and Bhagwant Mann and the DGP should resign, he said. At the same time, Singh appealed to people to ensure their protests remained peaceful and did not result in further harm. Meanwhile, members of the deceased's family questioned the police action and alleged that they had been pressured to sign documents without their consent. Speaking to IANS, a family member said, They are now portraying it as murder. The police have taken my father along and are conducting a postmortem. Why are they doing it without our consent when no one in our family has agreed to it? They came to our house and pressured us to sign documents. Another family member, speaking to IANS, said the family had been struggling for years and did not want any other member to experience a similar tragedy. Where is so much drug coming from, and where is this chitta (drug) being sold? There should be an investigation; that is all we want. We hold no grudge against anyone. Our only resentment is that the body was taken away from us. What right did the police have to stop the vehicles? the family member questioned. The family also questioned the manner in which the police were handling the case, particularly the decision to take away the body and separate relatives during the proceedings. If the police believe it was a murder, is this how they conduct an investigation -- by hiding the body, fleeing with it and taking family members to separate police stations? Is this what a police investigation looks like? a relative questioned. The relative added that even if the police had taken the body away to prevent the law-and-order situation from worsening, the action did not justify detaining the deceased's family members. Even if the police took the body to prevent the law-and-order situation from deteriorating, that is understandable. But that does not justify detaining the deceased's family, she added. Meanwhile, according to the police, an investigation into the case is underway, and the cause of death will only be confirmed after the postmortem report comes. Further details are awaited.
AAP sarpanchs son shot dead outside gurdwara near Amritsar
Farmers lock naib tehsildar's office in Kurukshetra over wrong paddy data
Haryana bags Rs 12,000 cr investment proposals on Sainis Gujarat outreach
Jakhar writes to Shah, seeks NIA probe into drug trade, arms networks operating in Punjab
Dhillon slams AAP, Congress for 'creating a ruckus' on final day of assembly session
Resolutions without legislation have no real impact: Partap Bajwa
Hockey is in blood of Punjab, says Mann as Champions Trophy kicks off in Jalandhar
Punjab notifies re-election in 28 Patiala MC wards; polls by Nov 18
Save HMT, save jobs: Protesters seek revival of Pinjore plant
6 months on, PGI neuroscience centre awaits first inpatient
Jyoti death: Ball in PUs court as DC forwards probe report
PGI tele-ICU keeps 83% critically ill kids closer to home
Assembly signs off with 8 resolutions; Mann bets on AAP repeat
Youth held for fleeing police checkpost; 12 vehicles impounded during overnight drive in Mohali
Cyber-safety tips for Veterans
HC dismisses PIL seeking CBI probe into Jhota murder
Cheating plaint against Canada-based man closed; both sides deny claims
Over 400kg substandard sweets destroyed in Sirsa
After repeated attacks on doctors, Punjab moves to strengthen hospital security
Beekeepers to get financial protection against risks and losses
Haryana expands CHIRAYU health cover to middle-income families
BJP to hold marches across HP over SIR; Assam CM to attend Shimla rally on Nov 1
DIG Sanjeev Gandhi posted as General Industries Corp MD
Shimla-Matour highway caves in near Bilaspurs Khalota, traffic diverted
6-day winter session of HP assembly to begin on Nov 16
Punjab Central varsity and CGWB to study uranium contamination in groundwater
Untimely rain delays harvesting, raises farm-fire fears
Tibetan monastic body bars monks from holding political positions
IOC chapters mobilise for Rahul Gandhis Delhi Chalo rally
Congress unity ride draws AAP, BJP jibes
Not a single drop of states rightful share will be surrendered, Punjab CM informs Assembly
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 27 (IANS) Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday drew a firm line on the states river waters, declaring that not a single drop of the states rightful share would be surrendered as the Assembly passed a resolution asserting the states rights. Vowing to fight from courts to streets, he questioned Rajasthans continued access to Punjabs water without payment, pegged the states outstanding royalty claim at Rs 1.43 lakh crore, and asserted that Rajasthan and Haryana had no share in the waters of the Ravi and the Beas. The Chief Minister pointed out his government is strengthening the states own irrigation network, expanding canal water access from 22 to 80 per cent of fields in four years and laying 14,000 km of underground pipelines. Participating in discussions on resolutions concerning river waters and other important issues on the final day of the Assembly session, CM Mann said Punjab would no longer tolerate injustice in the distribution of its precious water resources. Water is a state subject, and the control of headworks rests with the states. Punjab will vigorously pursue its legitimate rights and will not allow the states interests to be sacrificed, he said. Questioning Haryanas claim over Ravi-Beas waters, the Chief Minister said, It is unfair that Haryana stakes its claim over Ravi-Beas waters while Punjabs rightful share in Yamuna waters is ignored, despite the Yamuna being part of undivided Punjab. Highlighting the transformation in irrigation, CM Mann said when his government assumed office in 2022, only 22 per cent of Punjabs water resources were being utilised, whereas the figure had now risen to nearly 80 per cent. We have undertaken an extensive overhaul of Punjabs irrigation network to ensure that canal water reaches even the tail-end fields. By cleaning rajbahas, laying 14,000 km of pipelines and rejuvenating canals and watercourses, we have strengthened the irrigation system and improved access to water for farmers. The Chief Minister said the government has revived the Kandi Canal after nearly four decades and operationalised eight new canals in Pathankot, Amritsar and Gurdaspur districts. These initiatives have significantly improved irrigation access, with 60.80 lakh acres of land being irrigated through the governments efforts. Our commitment is to ensure that every drop counts, strengthen agriculture and provide much-needed relief to farmers, he said. The Chief Minister asserted that the government would pursue every legitimate avenue to protect Punjabs water rights and secure justice for its people.
Punjab Assembly passes resolution for uninterrupted public welfare schemes
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 27 (IANS) To protect the socio-economic rights of lakhs of families across the state, the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on Tuesday unanimously passed a comprehensive resolution affirming that the public welfare schemes and direct financial entitlements of the people of the state shall continue uninterrupted. Moved on the floor of the House by Finance Minister Harpal Cheema, the resolution firmly established that the resources of Punjab belong to its people, and the foremost duty of an elected government is to deploy those resources to provide financial dignity, quality healthcare, and essential household relief. The House categorically rejected attempts to label public welfare spending as a waste of money. Moving the resolution, Cheema said, Direct assistance provides critical relief to mothers managing monthly household budgets, farmers cultivating fields, and families confronting unexpected medical crises. The Assembly affirmed that public support reinforces citizen dignity, self-respect, and economic independence rather than diminishing it. The resolution highlighted key achievements of the Bhagwant Mann government that have transformed daily living standards across the state. For womens financial independence, over 80 lakh mothers and daughters are registered under the Mukh Mantri Mawan Dhiyan Satkar Yojana, receiving Rs 1,000 per month for the general category and Rs 1,500 per month for eligible Scheduled Caste women. In addition, women undertake over 1 crore free journeys each month on state-run buses, while the Ashirwad Scheme provides Rs 51,000 for the marriage of eligible daughters. In household and agricultural energy relief, the provision of 300 units of free domestic electricity per month has eliminated power bills for more than 90 per cent of households since 2022. Free power for agricultural tube-wells continues to support lakhs of farming households. For universal healthcare access, the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana provides health treatment coverage of up to Rs 10 lakh per family annually. A network of 1,244 Aam Aadmi Clinics has already served around 2 crore patients, drastically lowering out-of-pocket medical expenses. Social security pensions of Rs 1,500 per month support 30 lakh senior citizens, widows, destitute persons, and persons with disabilities. Under the Meri Rasoi Yojana, 40 lakh families receive essential food supplies free of cost every quarter, while nearly seven lakh elderly citizens have completed free spiritual journeys under the Mukh Mantri Tirath Yatra Yojana. Calling on all political parties to end ambiguity and declare their stand clearly to the people of Punjab, the resolution noted that withdrawing these benefits would directly deprive households of funds required for basic food, healthcare, and education.
AI must enhance human wisdom, not replace it, says Dr SS Bhatti at an event in city
Meeting assesses Punjab Vidhan Sabha poll preparedness
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 27 (IANS) A delegation comprising Senior Deputy Election Commissioners, Director Generals and other senior officials of the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday held a review meeting with the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Punjab, the state police nodal officer and representatives of various Central and state enforcement agencies to assess preparedness for the upcoming Vidhan Sabha elections. The day also witnessed the successful conduct of a First Level Checking (FLC) workshop aimed at training officials and personnel in the technical and administrative procedures associated with the checking of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) units. During the workshop, the CEO, Punjab, informed that the FLC process across districts would commence on November 12 and be carried out with complete transparency in accordance with ECI guidelines. The process will remain under strict daily monitoring by the respective District Election Officers to ensure compliance with prescribed procedures. Expert engineers from Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) conducted practical demonstrations and hands-on training sessions to familiarise participants with the technical aspects of FLC. The workshop also included an evaluation exercise and a dedicated session to address queries and clarify doubts. The workshop was attended by District Election Officers, Additional District Election Officers, FLC Nodal Officers, Master Trainers, BEL experts and other officials concerned with the process. Special emphasis was placed on adhering to established protocols and ensuring the highest standards of transparency, accuracy and caution throughout the FLC process. Following the workshop, a review meeting was held with enforcement agencies to assess their preparedness and coordination for the upcoming elections. The meeting focused on ensuring the active involvement of all enforcement agencies to facilitate the smooth, fair and transparent conduct of the electoral process.
Ravneet Bittu turns Punjabs governance debate into a satirical cocktail
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 27 (IANS) A liquor bottle with a bell-shaped cap becomes the centrepiece of a political jibe at Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, with former Union minister Ravneet Singh Bittu using Punjabi wordplay to raise questions over governance, accountability and the functioning of the AAP government. In the state politics, where political promises are often served neat and accountability can leave a bitter aftertaste, BJP leader Ravneet Singh found a new prop for his latest political broadside: a high-end imported liquor bottle with a bell-shaped cap. The target? Chief Minister Mann. The punchline? Talli a Punjabi expression that can mean intoxicated, while the bell-shaped cap adds another twist to the joke: when the bottle rings, who comes running? With a little Punjabi wordplay and a generous splash of political sarcasm, Ravneet Singh turned the bottle into a metaphor for what he alleges is the state of governance under the Aam Aadmi Party government. In this political theatre, the bottle is the prop, the bell is the punchline, and the real question is who is answering the call. The symbolism was aimed at the reported customs-duty controversy at Delhis Indira Gandhi International Airport involving Chief Minister Mann after his return from France with his family, when he was reportedly asked to wait for nearly three hours. Ravneet Singh used the episode as a springboard for a wider political attack, suggesting that the controversy deserved more than a passing headline. His message was that questions surrounding the conduct of those in high office cannot simply be drowned out by the next political announcement. The bottles bell-shaped cap provided the perfect satirical twist. In Ravneet Singhs telling, the joke was not merely about being talli; it was about who gets called when the bell rings -- and how quickly the machinery of government responds. The satire took a sharper turn with allegations about calls to senior officials, including the Director General of Police, the Chief Secretary and his OSD Rajbir Ghuman. His political narrative suggested that the official machinery could be summoned to act on directions involving cases against political opponents and other individuals, as well as matters concerning drug trafficking, illegal mining and alleged unlawful activities. The satire also raised questions about the alleged flow of illicit money to powerful political patrons in Delhi, questioning whether Punjabs political and administrative priorities are being determined in the interests of the state or those of its leadership. For the BJP leader, the intended message was that governance cannot be reduced to a performance, nor can allegations about the use of state machinery be brushed aside with political slogans.
This 'bottle' has ruined Punjab: Ravneet Bittu slams Punjab CM over governance failure
Launching a scathing attack on the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the opposition Congress, senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Ravneet Singh Bittu accused Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann of utter inaction over the past five years. Addressing the media in Chandigarh, Bittu held up a symbolic liquor bottle, referring to it colloquially as a alli, to characterise what he described as five years of administrative apathy, governance failure, and political hypocrisy in Punjab. Targeting Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, the BJP leader alleged that the state government spent its entire term indulging in political theatrics rather than tackling core governance challenges, drug issues, and infrastructure development. This 'talli' explains why nothing has been done in Punjab over the last five years. Chief Minister Sahab has just been busy ringing this 'talli' instead of doing any real, substantive work... Bittu charged that the state has suffered immense damage due to administrative negl...
Misl Satluj to Organise Discussion on Sahib Shri Kanshi Ram Ji
Misl Satluj will organise a discussion on Kanshi Ram Jis Vision on October 27 in Chandigarh, focusing on political empowerment, social equality and justice. The post Misl Satluj to Organise Discussion on Sahib Shri Kanshi Ram Jis Vision on October 27 appeared first on Sikh Siyasat News .
While layoffs and cost-cutting put jobs under pressure, a Chandigarh-based company has gifted four Kia Sonet SUVs to loyal employees. The initiative follows previous car-gifting drives, including 51 vehicles distributed during Diwali last year. The company also offers fuel allowances and a lucky draw through which newer employees can win a car.
Punjab Speaker Vows Strict Action Against Gun Violence Perpetrators
Punjab Speaker Kuldeep Singh Sandhu pledges no leniency for gun violence offenders during a press briefing in Chandigarh. Punjab Speaker Vows Strict Action Against Gun Violence Perpetrators
Chandigarh: Police use water cannons on BJP leaders protesting Kharges remarks on PM Modi
Chandigarh, October 27, 2026 (Udaipur Kiran): Weather conditions are likely to change across Haryana, with rainfall activity expected to increase from Wednesday, October 28. The Meteorological Department has Haryana Weather Update: Rain Expected from October 28, Yellow Alert for Heavy Rain on October 29 and 30
Punjab Weather Update: Rain, Thunderstorms and Strong Winds Expected on October 29 and 30
Chandigarh, October 27, 2026 (Udaipur Kiran): Punjab is likely to experience dry weather on Tuesday and Wednesday, but the weather is expected to change later this week. According Punjab Weather Update: Rain, Thunderstorms and Strong Winds Expected on October 29 and 30
