1cr CCTV project, vendor policy await nod amid MC panel meeting delays
Chief secy pushes for accountability, digital governance in Chandigarh
MC makes fresh bid to outsource C&D waste plant maintenance
Audit finds lapses in UTshandling of Hamari Beti
Pkl police crack down on illegal parking, issue record challans
6% CCTVs meant to catch traffic violators not working: RTI data
Mohali indl plot price plunges from 8.5cr to 4.5 cr in 4 mths
Ex-DGP Mohammad Mustafa sons mysterious death case transferred to CBI
Punjab to hold second phase of light & sound shows on Guru Tegh Bahadurs martyrdom anniversary
AAPs Rajinder Gupta takes oath as Rajya Sabha MP
Congress protests outside EC office in Chandigarh
Sunam shines in old glory, Virasati Darwaza restored
2nd Federation Gatka Cup to be held in Bengaluru from today
British Army delegation pays tribute to Saragarhi martyrs in Ferozepur
Punjab now leading stubble management efforts after Green Revolution: CAQM chairperson
Holy book destroyed in gurdwara fire in Talwandi Bhai town
Doctors body opposes Pb govts move to open medical colleges under PPP model
NGT tells Sirhind council to restore old dump, give update on condition of new landfill
Himachal Pradesh: Attempted abduction sparks communal tension in Sundernagar
CHANDIGARH: Communal tension erupted on Wednesday evening in Sundernagar town, Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh, as members of two communities came face to face, leading to a fight and heated arguments over allegations of harassment and an attempted abduction of a 13-year-old schoolgirl by a 38-year-old married man from a minority community. Sources said that the 38-year-old man had allegedly been stalking the girl for several days. On Wednesday, he reportedly arrived in an SUV near the minors house and attempted to abduct her. The girls family intervened, but the accused allegedly misbehaved with them. This prompted locals to gather at the spot, thrash him, smear his face with black paint, and hand him over to the police. As the police recorded statements from the victim and her relatives, members of the accuseds community reportedly entered the police station, created a disturbance, and engaged in heated arguments with the people accompanying the girls father. The incident also caused a traffic jam in the area. Additional police forces were called in as members of both communities gathered outside the police station, and the situation was eventually brought under control. The incident resulted in the registration of three First Information Reports (FIRs). Deputy Superintendent of Police, Sundernagar, Bharat Bhushan, confirmed that one FIR was registered against the man who attempted to abduct the minor under relevant sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and the vehicle involved has been impounded. The second FIR was registered against the relatives of the accused for creating a disturbance at the police station, while the third FIR was filed against those who assaulted the accused. The police stated that the accused will be produced in court.
World can still rescue 1.5C, says new analysis mapping the highest-ambition path
A new Climate Analytics study reveals that global warming can still be limited to well below 1.5C this century with immediate, ambitious climate action. The 'Highest Possible Ambition' scenario outlines a roadmap involving rapid renewable energy scaling, electrification, and fossil fuel phase-out, aiming to halt warming before 2050 and return temperatures below 1.5C by 2100.
Two-day national seminar on wheat from November 7
The Wheat Products Promotion Society and Roller Flour Millers Association of Punjab will host a national seminar in Chandigarh on November 7-8, 2025. Titled 'Wheat in Transformation: Preparing for Climate, Quality, and Consumption,' the event will unite the entire wheat value chain to strategize for the industry's future amidst climate change and evolving consumer demands.
Chandigarh Diary | Mann questions delay in land allotment to AAP
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann has questioned the Chandigarh Administration for delaying the allotment of land to AAP for its office. Mann said AAP had applied to the Punjab Governor, who is also the Chandigarh Administrator, but no action was taken. He said the party had fulfilled all conditions and deserved land as a national party. Mann criticised the BJPs Sheesh Mahal-2 jibe. He said the delay exposed political bias against AAP and urged the administration to follow the rules. Punjab Congress MLA Khaira hits back at Modi Punjab Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira has criticised PM Narendra Modi for his remarks against former CM Charanjit Singh Channi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. During a rally in Bihar, Modi said Channi wanted to stop people from Bihar from coming to Punjab. Khaira said the charges were false. He reminded the Prime Minister that states like Gujarat and Uttarakhand, ruled by the BJP, have laws restricting outsiders from buying land, becoming voters or taking government jobs. Khaira reiterated that he wants a law in Punjab to safeguard the demographics of the state. Questions over Haryana Congress discipline move After long, Haryana Congress has taken a significant step in enforcing discipline. It has set up a new disciplinary committee under Dharampal Malik. President Mallikarjun Kharge cleared the panel to keep order in the state unit. But the move comes at a tense time. Three leadersCaptain Ajay Yadav, Samtap Singh, and Kuldeep Sharmahave spoken out against the state leadership. The unrest follows the appointment of Rao Narender Singh as state chief and Bhupinder Singh Hooda as Congress Legislature Party leader. Harpreet Bajwa Our correspondent in Chandigarh hsbajwa73@gmail.com
Punjabs plan to shift RMOs to health department sees poor response, only 10 consent to move
After several shooting cases, Hry cops launch Op Trackdown to jail offenders
Haryanas Murrah bull takes 1st place at Pushkar, owner says got Rs 21cr offer
Feels like coming home: Sampat back in INLD after 16 years
Innovative Bathinda farmer starts saffron cultivation, pearls next
Centre pauses PU restructuring, Punjab parties call it victory, vow to keep up fight
Not just power & farming, Shahpur Kandi Dam to also boost water sports in Punjab: CM
Punjab govt to move HC to challenge PU senate restructuring: Mann
Punjab CEO asks SC panel to withdraw summons to Tarn Taran DC over Warring remarks
Conflict erupts in Chautala clan over Meham incident
Cong leaders condemn oppn parties for distorting Warrings remarks
Vote rigging charge: Cong takes out candle march in Jind
Hooda demands DSP post for cricketer Shafali Verma
Noni Mann of SAD held for 2024 Jalalabad poll clash
ORP Rank: HC protects adhoc promotions of Haryana police officials
Punjab issues health advisory as air quality worsens
UT expects delivery of 25 new e-buses in Nov
New SAD factions Kahneke blames greed, graft for SGPC poll drubbing
Felt like Pahalgam: Hindu man who was denied Pak entry for Gurpurab pilgrimage
Could not defend illegal act: Akali Dal on PU U-turn
Power engineers condemn action against 2 officials
No stubble burning for 11 years: Fazilka farmer sets example
Jathedar Gargaj reaches Fazilka as Khalsa Aid lays foundation of 3 Gurdwaras
Himachal roads get safer: Accidents dip, lives saved
Beaten by teacher, Class IV boy bleeds from head
2-day BJP workshop to strategise for 27 polls
Act on migrant welfare activists death threats complaint within 1 month: HC to Asr cops
7 Himachal districts get new SPs
FIR against Punjab Cong chief on complaint by Buta Singhs son
HP guv lauds daily Aarti initiative at Renukaji lake
EC must answer Rahuls allegations, say Haryana Cong leaders
Fresh snowfall blocks roads, lowers temperatures in HP
Man dies during police raid at Fatehabad home; wife alleges assault, cops deny charge
Centre withdraws notice dissolving Senate and Syndicate of Panjab University
CHANDIGARH: Following political backlash, the Centre withdrew the earlier notification dissolving 143-year-old Panjab University's senate and syndicate, and replacing them with nominated bodies. The Centre also put a hold on the immediate overhaul of the university, hours after Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann vowed to challenge the move in the Punjab and Haryana High Court. A fresh notification issued by the Union Ministry of Education reads, In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1), read with sub-sections (2) and (3) of section 72 of the Punjab Reorganisation Act, 1966, the Central Government hereby rescinds the notification dated October 28, 2025. The Punjab University Act, 1947 (East Punjab Act 7 of 1947) shall have effect from the date, as appointed by the Central Government, subject to the following modifications, the new notification stated. The Centres clarification is being seen as a tactical pause amid the escalating tensions over what critics have called an unconstitutional and anti-federal move, while supporters maintain the reforms are vital to free the university from political interference. The development comes in the wake of intense protests by students, farmer unions and opposition parties against the Centre's earlier decision to dissolve the Senate and Syndicate of Panjab University, and replace them with nominated bodies. The October 28 notification suggested amendment of the Panjab University Act, 1947, reducing the strength of universitys top governing body from 91 members to 24, abolishing the graduates constituency completely, and replacing its elected Syndicate with a largely nominated structure. With the withdrawal of the October 28 notification, the Senate and Syndicate will continue to function under their existing framework as defined by the Panjab University Act, 1947. Mann had termed this move unconstitutional, asserting that the Union govenrment had overstepped its powers. The Punjab government will approach the high court against the issuance of a notification unconstitutionally dissolving the Senate and Syndicate of Panjab University, Chandigarh. A panel of the countrys eminent and specialist lawyers will be formed to tenaciously fight against this act of high-handedness, he posted on X. He had also argued that the Centre had no authority to amend the Panjab University Act through a notification. Either the Assembly can amend it, or the matter has to be taken to Parliament. But none of that happened. By issuing the notification, the BJP has revealed its anti-Punjab face, the matter would be raised in the Assembly to strengthen Punjabs position legislatively, he said. Established in 1882 at Lahore, Panjab University is one of the oldest universities in the country. After partition, a new campus of the university was built in India. Again, when Punjab was split into Haryana and Himachal Pradesh, the university became an inter-state body corporate under the Punjab Reorganisation Act, 1966, passed by Parliament. Despite the fact that the university is controlled by the Union government, the Punjab government continues to hold a major stake. As an inter-state body corporate, PU does not have the status of a full-fledged central university. While visiting the university in 2015, the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) underlined the need to revisit the governance structure especially in terms of appointments of faculty deans, it was pointed out. A 2021 committee set up by then Vice President and Chancellor Venkaiah Naidu under Prof R P Tiwari had also recommended heavily paring down of the PU Senate and Syndicate.
Pak officials told us you are Hindu, you cant go with Sikh jatha, says Hindu pilgrim
CHANDIGARH, Nov 5: Pakistani officials told us you are Hindu, you cannot go with a Sikh jatha, said Amar Chand, who was sent back along with six of his family members after they crossed over to the neighbouring nation to participate in the birth anniversary celebrations of Guru Nanak Dev. A jatha (a group) of nearly 1,900 Sikh pilgrims crossed over to Pakistan through the Attari-Wagah border for the celebrations of Parkash Purb of Guru Nanak Dev on Tuesday. [] The post Pak officials told us you are Hindu, you cant go with Sikh jatha, says Hindu pilgrim appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Punjab MP Amarinder Warring booked over casteist remarks against late leader Buta Singh
CHANDIGARH: Punjab Congress president and Member of Parliament from Ludhiana Amarinder Singh Raja Warring has been booked over 'casteist remarks' against veteran leader late Buta Singh made during a campaign for the Tarn Taran bypoll. A case has been registered at the Cyber Crime Police Station in Kapurthala under Sections 353 (Statements causing public mischief), 196 (Promoting enmity between groups on ground of religion, race, others) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and other sections of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 (Amendment 2015). Sarabjot Singh Sidhu, son of late leader and former minister Joginder Singh Mann and nephew of Buta Singh, filed a complaint with Senior Superintendent of Police of Kapurthala Gaurav Toora. The complaint stated that the remarks have the potential to incite caste-based tensions and disrupt communal harmony in the state as they dishonour the legacy of a national leader. The statement made by Warring is not only factually incorrect and racially charged, but it also constitutes a direct insult to the dignity and legacy of Buta Singh, a revered leader of the Scheduled Caste community and former home minister of India, who belonged to the Mazhabi Sikh community, it further read. Sidhu asserted that the words amounted to body shaming, caste humiliation and promotion of hatred, claiming that the intent behind the statement was disrespect a marginalised community. The complaint stated that the accused allegedly remarked that Buta Singh was made Union Home Minister only because he was a black Mazhabi Sikh who worked in buffalo fodder feeding activities. Confirming that a First Information Report (FIR) has been registered, Kapurthala SI Toora said, On the basis of the complaint submitted on November 3, we have sought opinion from our legal team, which recommended in writing to register an FIR against the accused as mentioned in the complaint. A detailed action will be carried according to the course of law before taking further action. Sources said that the case has been handed over for investigation and further inquiry is underway to verify the allegations and collect evidence, including video recordings, witness statements, and media reports related to the alleged speech. The investigation will examine whether the statement was made in the reported manner, the context of the speech, and whether the legal provisions invoked in the FIR are applicable. After his remarks drew sharp criticism from leaders of other parties, Warring apologised and clarified that Buta Singh was like a father figure to him. While I reaffirm and reiterate that I meant no disrespect to late Sardar Buta Singh, if anyone has felt hurt, I tender my unconditional apology, he added. After the Punjab Scheduled Castes Commission, the National Scheduled Caste Committee has also sought a report from the Tarn Taran deputy commissioner and SSP within seven days.
Centre holds back on implementing Panjab University's Act amendments amid protests
The central government has halted immediate implementation of sweeping changes to Panjab University's Act. A previous notification bringing these reforms into effect has been withdrawn. This decision follows criticism from political parties and student groups. The amendments will now be enforced on a date to be separately appointed by the Union government.
Punjab Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring faces legal action. He has been booked for allegedly making casteist remarks about former Union minister Buta Singh. The FIR was filed following a complaint by Buta Singh's son. Warring has apologized for his comments. The remarks were made during election campaigning. This has sparked criticism from rival political parties.
Aditi Sheoran: The young all-rounder powering Haryanas cricket dreams
Fifteen-year-old Aditi Sheoran, a village girl from Haryana, is making waves in junior cricket. She broke barriers by training with boys and has since excelled as a top-order batter and all-rounder, leading her U-19 Chandigarh team. Aditi's dedication and consistent performances have earned her state and national recognition, highlighting her potential as India's next cricketing star.
CHANDIGARH: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann today urged the Union Government to reopen the Kartarpur corridor and demanded that trade with Pakistan through the Attari-Wagah route be resumed, as he paid obeisance at the Golden Temple in Amritsar on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev. After offering prayers at the Golden Temple, CM Mann, accompanied by his wife Gurpreet Kaur, told the media that he prayed for progress, peace, and harmony in Punjab. To a question on the reopening of the Kartarpur corridor, Mann said the Central Government should take the initiative on its own. What is the use if they reopen it only when someone writes to them? They should reopen it on their own. Now cricket matches are also being played with them (Pakistan). Devotees even return after four to five hours after paying obeisance at Kartarpur Sahib. Therefore, the home ministry and external affairs ministry should reopen the Kartarpur corridor, he demanded. Mann also pointed out that trade with Pakistan through Gujarat continues. Matches are also being played with them. People of both countries want peace, he added. Asked about the resumption of trade through the Attari-Wagah route, the Chief Minister said, Definitely, it should resume. Lakhs of people will get jobs. Our trade will expand. We have been demanding this from time to time. The Kartarpur corridor links Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan the final resting place of Sikhisms founder Guru Nanak Dev to the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjabs Gurdaspur district. India had closed its side of the Kartarpur corridor following heightened tensions with Pakistan after the April 22 Pahalgam attack.
Centre to decide on Bijli Mahadev ropeway project amid protests & environmental concerns
Sons sleuthing turns moms accidental death into murder case
CLP meet discusses law & order, farmers issues in Hry
In 1st major border crossing since Op Sindoor, 1,796 enter Pak for Guru Nanaks birth anniv
Hyundai launches all-new VENUE
Excelsior Correspondent CHANDIGARH, Nov 4: Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has launched the all-new Hyundai VENUE, marking a fresh chapter in the compact SUV segment with a blend of modern design, advanced technology, and enhanced comfort. A statement said the upgraded VENUE now stands taller, wider, and comes with a longer wheelbase, offering more cabin space and a stronger SUV stance. It features a bold exterior with quad beam LED headlamps, twin horn LED DRLs, a dark chrome grille, and [] The post Hyundai launches all-new VENUE appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
J&K Bank extends project finance to RERA-approved Armaan Heights in Mohali
Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Nov 4: In a move aimed at promoting transparent and sustainable housing development, J&K Bank has extended project finance facilities to M/s Royal Street for its upcoming residential project Armaan Heights, located along the Chandigarh-Ludhiana Highway at SAS Nagar, Mohali. A statement said the project has received approval from the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA), ensuring that all construction and sales processes adhere to transparent regulatory standards. The agreement for project financing was signed by the Banks [] The post J&K Bank extends project finance to RERA-approved Armaan Heights in Mohali appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Denial of bail at advanced trial stage can cripple defence: HC
Buta Singh remarks: Day after Warrings apology, demands for action get louder
No Punjab city among top-10 most polluted in Oct: Report
Fear of losing welfare benefits drives migrant exodus to Bihar for polls
Overpriced: Nabha and Bhadson municipal councils oppose waste mngmnt contract
Haryana constable clears CDS exam on 7th attempt, set to join IMA
NGT notice to Union ministry, Punjab, HP, J&K, 25 districts over plea to free 5 rivers of pollution
Mann reiterates AAP promise of Rs 1k monthly allowance to all women
You are Hindu, you cant go: Pakistan blocks devotees at Wagah after Op Sindoor; Sikh jatha crosses
Pakistan barred Hindu pilgrims from joining a Sikh jatha to Nankana Sahib for Guru Nanak Dev's birth anniversary, despite completed formalities. Indian officials condemned the move as discriminatory and unprecedented, potentially aimed at creating divisions. Many Hindu devotees returned dejected, highlighting concerns for future pilgrimages, including to Kartarpur Sahib.
Pak shocker at Wagah: Hindu devotees of Guru Nanak Dev turned away
PU boils as students storm admin block, protest affidavit withdrawn
Senior citizen dies at UT secretariat
Friend pays for ticket: Jaipur veg vendor wins Rs 11 crore Punjab Diwali Bumper lottery
A humble vegetable vendor from Jaipur, Amit Sehra, has won the Rs 11 crore Punjab State Lottery Diwali Bumper 2025. He purchased the winning ticket after borrowing Rs 500 from a friend, as he had no money. Sehra plans to gift Rs 1 lakh to his friend before making any decisions for his own family.
Politicians, farm leaders throw weight behind students
PUCSC prez seeks 2 seats for student representatives in reformed Senate
Hind Di Chadar light-and-sound show at Patiala in Gurus memory
Punjab Cong defends chief: Rivals trying to distort words
Shopkeeper booked for assaulting elderly man
Bag with assault rifles recovered near border
Punjab govt launches events to mark Gurus martyrdom
Political crisis intensifies in Nabha MC as councillors demand prez resignation
Jewellery stolen from actor Kuljinder Sidhus store
