Chandigarh: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered an FIR against Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Manns Officer on Special Duty (OSD), Rajbir Ghuman, and others over alleged manipulation of postings of IAS, IPS and other officers in exchange for money. Following registration of the case, the agency conducted searches at eight premises across Chandigarh, [] The post CBI Books Punjab CMs OSD In Cash-for-Transfers Case, Raids Eight Premises appeared first on Northlines .
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Slams BJP After CBI Raids Camp Office Ahead of 2027 Polls
High-voltage political drama erupted across Punjab after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducted coordinated searches at Chief Minister Bhagwant Manns official camp office in Sector 2, Chandigarh, alongside multiple premises connected to his Officer on Special Duty (OSD), Rajbir Singh Ghuman. The crackdown immediately escalated into a heated political showdown between the ruling Aam [] The post Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Slams BJP After CBI Raids Camp Office Ahead of 2027 Polls appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Ayushmann Khurrana enjoys lassi as Sara Ali Khan embraces Punjabi culture
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 7 (IANS) Actors Ayushmann Khurrana and Sara Ali Khan recently embraced the vibrant Punjabi spirit during their time in Chandigarh. The Bala actor, who hails from Chandigarh, appeared to be enjoying a quintessential Punjabi experience as he savoured a glass of traditional lassi. The actors love for his hometown and its culture was evident as he took in the familiar flavors of Punjab. Sara, meanwhile, soaked up the local charm and explored the Punjabi way of life. Taking to Instagram, the actress shared a video in which she is seen dressed in an elegant pink suit, standing in the middle of a farm. She also showcased her poetry skills as she said, Sat Sri Akal, viewers. This morning, I had a dream. I am in Chandigarh, in the heart of Punjab. With me is a man who is extremely amazing. Please put your hands together for Ayushmann Khurrana sahib. The actor, on the other hand, was seen holding a large copper glass. He wore a denim outfit paired with a white shirt that had Udta Teer written on it. The video ended with Sara posing with Ayushmann, resting her head on his shoulder. Ayushmann also drove a tractor while Sara sat beside him, giving her a glimpse of Punjabi farm life and allowing her to explore the countryside. Sara Ali Khan and Ayushmann Khurrana recently visited Chandigarh as part of the promotional tour for their upcoming film Udta Teer. The film, directed by Aakash Kaushik, was earlier slated to hit theatres on October 9, 2026, but its release was later pushed to October 23. Ayushmann plays Bilal Ahmad, a Pakistani spy who suffers from memory loss. The ensemble cast also includes Rahul Bose, Ram Kapoor, Gulshan Grover, Mukul Dev, Suhail Nayyar, Raghubir Yadav, Brijendra Kala, Sandeep Anand, Supriya Pilgaonkar and Smita Tambe in prominent roles.
How Haryana hurricane stormed Asiad
World Architecture Day commemorated at SKICC
Srinagar, Oct 6:The Indian Institute of Architects (IIA), Srinagar Centre, concluded its World Architecture Day 2026 celebrations at SKICC, Srinagar. The event brought together architects, academicians, professionals, distinguished guests, students and members of the architectural fraternity from across Jammu & Kashmir. The programme commenced with the formal inauguration and welcome address by Ar. Irshad Majid, Chairman, IIA Srinagar Centre. In his address, he highlighted the importance of architecture in shaping sustainable, inclusive and culturally responsive built environments, while emphasising the role of the architectural fraternity in contributing to the development of the region. A key highlight of the programme was the presentation and professional discourse led by eminent architects from outside the region. Ar. Leena Kumar from Bengaluru and Ar. Surinder Bagha from Chandigarh shared their experiences, perspectives and insights on contemporary architecture, design practice and the evolving role of architects. Their presentations provided a valuable platform for professional learning, dialogue and interaction. The event was attended by architects from the IIA Srinagar Centre and across the Kashmir Valley, along with representatives of the IIA J&K Chapter from Jammu. The programme also witnessed participation from students pursuing architecture through IIA, providing them an opportunity to engage with senior architects and gain exposure to contemporary professional practice. The programme also featured a presentation by Nerolac, the Official Event Sponsor, highlighting the significance of materials, colours and innovation in contemporary architectural practice. The IIA Srinagar Centre presented an overview of its initiatives and professional activities, as well as its ongoing efforts to strengthen the architectural profession and foster greater engagement among architects, institutions, government and society. The evening culminated in an Award Ceremony, during which distinguished architects and contributors were recognised and felicitated for their valuable contributions to the profession and the wider architectural community. The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Ar. Aamir Rafi, Vice Chairman, IIA Srinagar Centre, who expressed gratitude to the distinguished guests, speakers, architects, students, award recipients, members of the architectural fraternity and for their valuable support and participation.
Opposition Intensifies Attacks on AAP Government Following CBI Raid in Chandigarh
The CBI raid on Chief Minister Bhagwant Manns office in Chandigarh sparks fierce criticism from Punjabs opposition parties. Opposition Intensifies Attacks on AAP Government Following CBI Raid in Chandigarh
KU academic council clears 23 major policy proposals
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ANTF to probe Rajjit Hundals benami properties, bank accounts
CBI raid at my camp office part of BJP's poll preparation: CM Mann
CBI searches Manns camp office after filing FIR against OSD
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Wilfully misleading: HC sends notice to Punjab chief secretary in DA case
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Shatabdi Express Wheel Skid: Why has Railway Board ordered a probe into wet-track braking
The Railway Board has asked RDSO to investigate a WAP-5 locomotive wheel skid on wet rails during emergency braking by a New Delhi-Chandigarh Shatabdi, and review track fencing after cattle incursion.
President urges AIIMS Bilaspur doctors to take quality healthcare to remote Himachal
Illegal mining unearthed at Kot Sidhu village; FIR registered
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CBI Begins Probe Into Alleged Corruption in Punjab CMO, Searches Chandigarh Camp Office
Chandigarh, October 6 (Udaipur Kiran): The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has begun an investigation into alleged corruption in the office of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. On Tuesday evening, CBI teams conducted searches at several locations, including the Chief Ministers camp office in Chandigarh. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has openly opposed the action. Meanwhile, ... Read more CBI Begins Probe Into Alleged Corruption in Punjab CMO, Searches Chandigarh Camp Office
How India-UK economic ties can expand at regional level
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 6 (IANS) The visit of a business delegation from the north of England to India offers an opportunity to shift the focus of bilateral economic engagement between the two nations from London to regional industries, universities and emerging centres of innovation, according to a media report. The delegation, operating under the Great North banner, brings together representatives from Liverpool City Region, West Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, York and North Yorkshire, the North East, Cheshire and Warrington, according to the report on the Khalsa Vox news website. Indias economic relationship with Britain need not be limited to attracting investment from London-based corporations or securing access to the British consumer market. Its companies can also benefit from establishing direct relationships with regional industrial clusters, universities and local administrations, it observed. For the United Kingdom, the initiative also addresses a longstanding domestic challenge: ensuring that the benefits of international trade extend beyond London and the South East. Northern England possesses substantial strengths in advanced manufacturing, engineering, technology, higher education, clean energy, and creative industries. Yet international perceptions of Britains economy often remain disproportionately associated with its capital. The India mission offers an opportunity to challenge that imbalance by positioning northern cities and industrial clusters as destinations for Indian investment and collaboration. This approach is particularly relevant for Indian states seeking to strengthen exports, attract technology partnerships and diversify international investment. Punjab and Haryana provide an instructive example. Earlier Northern Powerhouse initiatives included engagement with Punjab, Karnataka, and Delhi. British diplomatic representatives in Chandigarh subsequently highlighted progress in education, skills development and exchanges involving students and businesses. A stakeholder consultation organised by Indias Ministry of Commerce and Industry in Chandigarh in June highlighted opportunities arising from Indias expanding network of free trade agreements. Among the sectors identified as having export potential for Punjab and Haryana were textiles, apparel, engineering goods, agriculture, food processing, pharmaceuticals and chemicals. Several of these industries align with the capabilities and commercial interests of northern England. For example, Punjabs manufacturing enterprises could explore partnerships involving specialised engineering, industrial technology and advanced production systems. Textile businesses could examine opportunities for technology transfer, product development and access to new distribution networks. Universities and technical institutions could collaborate on vocational education, research and industry-oriented skills programmes. Clean energy and sustainable industrial development offer another promising area of cooperation, particularly as businesses in both countries respond to changing environmental requirements and the transition towards lower-carbon production, the article added.
'Result of BJP's frustration': Arvind Kejriwal after CBI raids Punjab CM's camp office
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 6 (IANS) Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday lashed out at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) raided the Punjab Chief Minister's camp office in Chandigarh for evidence in a graft case linked to the CMs Officer on Special Duty (OSD), calling it the esult of BJP's frustration. The CBI took over the investigation into alleged corruption involving Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Manns OSD Rajbir Singh Ghuman and other associates and conducted searches at eight locations in Chandigarh, Mohali, Jalandhar and other cities. It also registered an FIR against Punjab CM Mann's OSD and five others. In a post on the social media platform X, Kejriwal said: The CBI raid on the Punjab Chief Minister's office two months before the elections is the result of the BJP's frustration. Ever since the BJP government came to power at the Centre, it has always pushed 'Punjabis' aroundbe it the farmers' movement, the issue of Punjab's water, or the Punjab University issue. And now, it's even pushing around their elected Chief Minister, he added. The AAP chief remarked that because the BJP can't win elections by contesting in Punjab, so it wants to fight the elections with the help of ED-CBI. However, he expressed confidence in the AAP's victory in the upcoming Assembly polls in the state, saying: But Punjabis have made up their minds, and they will respond to the BJP's CBI raid in the upcoming elections by electing Bhagwant Mann with 100+ seats and making him Chief Minister again. During the searches, the CBI collected incriminating evidence such as laptops, mobile phones and documents and sent them to a forensic lab for extracting data linked to the alleged bribery and impropriety, a CBI official said in a statement. The probe agency said it registered an FIR in the matter following orders of the Punjab and Haryana High Court and receipt of a report from the Enforcement Directorate. The CBI has booked six persons, including two public servants, middlemen and associates, namely Rajbir Singh Ghuman, Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to the Chief Minister, Punjab, Nitin Gohal, Jitin Gohal alias Raja, Romi Raja Mahajan, Bir Devinder, R.S. Nagra and unknown public servant(s) and private person(s).
Former sarpanch, 76, arrested in 40-year-old land dispute in Hisar
CBI raids Punjab's CM Bhagwant Mann's camp office, AAP hits back at BJP amid poll preparations
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Tuesday carried out a raid at Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's camp office in Chandigarh, triggering a sharp political reaction from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).The CBI team...
Punjab: CBI books 6, raids 8 locations for evidence in graft case linked to CM Manns OSD
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 6 (IANS) The CBI on Tuesday took over the investigation into alleged corruption involving Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Manns OSD Rajbir Singh Ghuman and other associates and conducted searches at eight locations in Chandigarh, Mohali, Jalandhar and other cities. During the searches, the CBI collected incriminating evidence, laptops, mobile phones and documents and sent digital devices to forensic lab for extracting data linked to the alleged bribery and impropriety, a CBI official said in a statement. The probe agency said it registered the FIR in the matter following orders of the Punjab and Haryana High Court and receipt of report from the ED. The CBI has booked six persons, including two public servants, middlemen and associates namely Rajbir Singh Ghuman, Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to Chief Minister, Punjab, Nitin Gohal, Jitin Gohal alias Raja, Romi Raja Mahajan, Bir Devinder, R.S. Nagra and unknown public servant(s) and private person(s). An official statement said that the CBI has registered the FIR to investigate the allegations of corruption against the OSD to the Punjab Chief Minister (CM) and his associates for influencing and manipulating postings of officers, including that of IAS and IPS officers, departmental proceedings and matters pertaining to policy formulation. The probe will also cover decisions of the accused aimed at manipulating administrative approvals, tender conditions, licensing matters, land use conversion matters, property disputes, revenue and land related issues in lieu of pecuniary benefits, said the statement. It is also alleged that the accused public servants purportedly accessed and provided drafts of orders and policies to private persons prior to their issuance by the government. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday alleged that the CBI action was politically motivated. The allegations came a day after the Punjab and Haryana High Court directed the CBI to register a case and submit a status report within two months regarding allegations of corruption involving CM Manns OSD Ghuman and others. The ED had earlier written three letters to Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav alleging that Ghuman and his associates, Nitin Gohal and Bir Devinder, were involved in corruption-related activities. The anti-money laundering agency alleged that they were interfering in administrative transfers, postings and government tenders, and had sought registration of an FIR. After the Punjab Police did not register a case on the basis of the ED communications, advocate Nikhil Saraf filed a public interest litigation (PIL) before the High Court seeking a CBI investigation. In the petition, Saraf argued that the ED letters contained serious allegations involving persons linked to the Punjab Chief Ministers Office and sought a fair and independent investigation free from the influence of the Punjab Police and Punjab Vigilance Bureau.
After High Court order, CBI registers corruption case in connection to Punjab CM Manns office
A CBI official confirmed the development, adding that the CBI conducted searches at multiple locations, including Chief Minister Bhagwant Manns camp office in Chandigarh
After High Court order, CBI registers corruption case in connection to Punjab CM Manns office
A CBI official confirmed the development, adding that the CBI conducted searches at multiple locations, including Chief Minister Bhagwant Manns camp office in Chandigarh
'PCS officer bride vanishes with 14 tola gold, cash after marrying AAP neta; 6 booked
A woman from Tarn Taran allegedly posed as a Punjab Civil Services officer to deceive an AAP functionary. After marrying Amarinder Singh Mandofal, she left her matrimonial home with valuables and cash. Her family purported false information about her background, including her deceased parents. Mandofal discovered multiple instances of forgery regarding her identity documents and previous marriage.
CBI conducts raid at Punjab CM Manns camp office, FIR filed against OSD
The CBI is now investigating allegations of corruption that ensnare Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's OSD and other officials. This development comes on the heels of a High Court directive citing possible misconduct in government actions. The Enforcement Directorate has pointed fingers at businessman Nitin Gohal, linking him to a 'cash-for-transfer' scheme.
As Harmanpreet Kaur steps down, her Punjab village remembers the girl who played cricket with boys
PGIMER Chandigarh Announces Nursing Officer Exam Schedule and Admit Card Details
The Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh has announced the exam schedule for the Nursing Officer position, set for October 21, 2026. Candidates can download their admit cards starting October 14, 2026, from the official website. The admit card will include essential details such as roll number, exam center, and timing. Candidates are advised to check their registered emails for exam city information and to verify all details on the admit card. For further assistance, candidates can contact the Recruitment Cell at PGIMER.
NHM Chandigarh Recruitment 2026 - Walkin for Gynaecologist, Paediatrician and More Posts
National Health Mission Chandigarh (NHM Chandigarh) has announced 5 vacancies for various posts, including Gynaecologist under NHM, Paediatrician under NHM, Epidemiologist (NP-NCD) under NHM, and other positions. Eligible candidates can attend the walk-in interview on 13 October 2026. Candidates should review the detailed notification before attending the interview.
Michael Kors opens new store in Chandigarh, India
New Delhi [India], October 6: Michael Kors is excited to announce the opening of its new Michael Kors Lifestyle store in Chandigarh, India. Located in the Nexus Elante Mall, the new store brings Michael Kors' flair and sophistication to a new global shopping destination.
Punjab: Drug menace takes centre stage ahead of assembly polls
Chandigarh: With the Punjab assembly polls just a few months away, the issue of drug menace has taken a centre stage in political discourse with opposition parties mounting a sustained attack on the AAP government for allegedly failing to wipe out the scourge. The Bhagwant Mann dispensation, however, highlighted its anti-drug drive Yudh Nashian Virudh, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
India's Predicted XI For 1st T20I vs West Indies: Big Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Call On Cards
The T20I series follows just three days after the West Indies chased down 352 in New Chandigarh, achieving their highest successful ODI run chase against India.
New career low for Suryakumar Yadav
Suryakumar Yadav has been dropped from Mumbai's Ranji Trophy squad for the opening match against Chandigarh, despite confirming his availability, due to selectors' concerns over his red-ball form after an 18-month hiatus from the format.
PGI paranthas, Stu-C meals take Sebi, AMFI chiefs back to their PU days
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High-level bridge to replace Mubarakpur causeway over Ghaggar
63% households aware of securities market, only 9.5% invest: Sebi launches Project Jaagruk
Newborns body found in dustbin in Zirakpur
New Delhi, Oct 5: India and the West Indies were on Monday fined by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for maintaining slow over-rates during the third ODI in New Chandigarh. While India have been fined 20 per cent of their match fee, the West Indies were docked 10 per cent of their earnings after being []
180 ETT teachers to get relief from pay disparity with their juniors
Chandigarh court restrains three FB pages from uploading AI content against Cong neta
Congress, Akali Dal, BJP against monthly financial assistance to women: Mann
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Satnam Singh gets Rs 50 lakh cash award for Asian Games bronze
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Court restrains 3 FB pages as AI videos target Cong man
HC hands over Punjab cash-for-transfer case to CBI
Farmers call off NH-44 blockade after govt assures action on paddy procurement
MP overtakes Punjab in stubble burning, 254 farm fires reported across 7 states
7 Haryana men held for assaulting 3 youths in Mandi
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CM announces Rs 1 crore each for three Himachali kabaddi gold medalists
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Digital system to track high-risk pregnancies, newborn care in Haryana
Congress demands CEC Gyaneshs removal, calls for fresh Haryana polls on ballot paper
Majithia skips SIT summons in drug case
Punjab to intensify Hepatitis C screening, strengthen transfusion safety
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U-19 WC-winning Captain Mhatre Appointed Mumbai Vice-captain; Suryakumar Left Out
T20 World Cup: Ayush Mhatre, who captained India to U-19 World Cup triumph earlier this year, has been appointed vice-captain in Mumbais squad for their Ranji Trophy season-opener against Chandigarh, starting on October 11 at the Wankhede Stadium. In a major development, Suryakumar Yadav, who led India to win the T20 World Cup on home soil earlier this year, has not been included in the squad despite making himself available for selection, as the selectors led by Rajesh Pawar have opted to prioritise youth power in the red-ball format. Pawar had an hour-long meeting with other selectors, which was also attended by skipper Siddhesh Lad, head coach Omkar Salvi, and cricket advisor, former India cricketer and chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar. Mumbai will also miss seam-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur, who suffered a fracture to his right middle finger during training and is set to miss at least the first two matches. India opener Yashasvi Jaiswal has also been named in the squad, boosting the batting unit and giving him valuable match time in preparation for Indias Test series against New Zealand, to be held in November. Mhatre missed competitive action for almost five months following a hamstring injury during IPL 2026, where he was playing for Chennai Super Kings. Mhatre and Lad, who dislocated his shoulder while playing in the Mumbai T20 league, recently cleared their fitness tests at the BKC indoor facility and even played in the Kanga League to prove their match fitness. Opener Divyansh Saxena, who was Jaiswals teammate in the 2020 Mens U19 World Cup in South Africa, has also made a comeback to the Mumbai Ranji Trophy squad on the basis of putting out strong performances in the pre-season competitions. Mumbai, the 42-time Ranji Trophy winners, are in Elite Group D in this years competition alongside Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Railways, Uttarakhand, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh. Mhatre missed competitive action for almost five months following a hamstring injury during IPL 2026, where he was playing for Chennai Super Kings. Mhatre and Lad, who dislocated his shoulder while playing in the Mumbai T20 league, recently cleared their fitness tests at the BKC indoor facility and even played in the Kanga League to prove their match fitness. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
High Court order on CBI probe significant development in Punjab politics, says Akal Dal leader
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 5 (IANS) Shiromani Akali Dal leader and former minister Bikram Singh Majithia on Monday targeted the Bhagwant Mann government after the Punjab and Haryana High Court handed over to the CBI the investigation into alleged corruption involving Chief Minister Bhagwant Manns OSD Rajbir Singh Ghuman and other associates. Calling the High Court order a significant development in state politics, Majithia said the court had directed the CBI to register a criminal case, investigate the allegations and submit a status report within two months. He said the matter was no longer limited to political allegations and that the complete record would now come before the investigating agency. The questions we have been putting before the people of Punjab for a long time must now be answered through evidence during the investigation. The truth must come out, Majithia said. He said the most serious aspect was that the Enforcement Directorate had written three letters to the Punjab DGP seeking action and registration of an FIR over alleged corruption, but the matter did not move forward. This eventually led to the matter reaching the High Court through a public interest petition, following which the court handed the investigation to the CBI. Majithia alleged that certain police officers had attempted to prevent the matter from progressing and allegedly destroy evidence in order to protect people close to Chief Minister Mann, including his OSD Ghuman, Ghumans associate Nitin Gohal and others. He alleged that former DGP L.K. Yadav was also involved in this process. Majithia said the CBI should investigate what action the Punjab Police took on the letters sent by the ED, which officers took decisions on them and why there was a delay in registering an FIR. If there was any attempt at any level to tamper with evidence, influence the investigation or allegedly protect anyone, responsibility must also be fixed, and strict action should be taken against the officials found responsible, he said.
High Court exposes govts claims of zero-tolerance for corruption, says Punjab BJP
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 5 (IANS) Punjab BJP President Kewal Singh Dhillon on Monday hailed the Punjab and Haryana High Courts decision to hand over to the CBI the investigation into allegations of corruption involving Punjab Chief Ministers OSD Rajvir Ghuman and the Chief Ministers Office (CMO). He said the courts decision has exposed the reality behind a government that claims to be a zero-tolerance government for corruption. Speaking to the media here, Dhillon said that following the exposure of this alleged corruption network, the Chief Minister should immediately resign, as the government has lost the moral right to remain in power. Dhillon said that in this matter, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had written to the Punjab DGP three times, but the Punjab Police did not register an FIR. When the matter reached the court through a public interest litigation, the High Court ordered a CBI probe into the case. The High Court has directed the CBI to register a case and submit a status report within two months. Expressing hope that the CBI will conduct a fair and transparent investigation, Dhillon said that allegations of corruption against the Chief Ministers Office have exposed the government that claims to be zero tolerance for corruption. He questioned whether the government considers itself truly honest, why it runs away from an investigation despite repeated letters from the ED, and why the Chief Minister is afraid of an investigation into his own office. Does this not mean that there is something fishy? he asked. Dhillon said people in Punjab are being misled by putting up boards proclaiming an honest Chief Minister across the state. He said several former ministers and legislators of the AAP government have already faced allegations or investigations related to corruption and money laundering, including former ministers Vijay Singla, Fauja Singh Sarari and Sanjeev Arora, and MLAs Amit Rattan Kotfatta and Jaswant Singh Gajjan Majra. He also alleged that former minister Laljit Singh Bhullar is currently in jail in connection with the suicide case involving a government official. Dhillon demanded that the government and Punjab Police immediately provide the CBI with all necessary records and full cooperation so that the investigation can proceed within the two-month deadline set by the court. The High Court has also directed the government and the police to extend full cooperation to the CBI. The state BJP chief also raised questions over the law and order situation in Punjab, saying not only ordinary citizens but even police personnel are not safe in the state. Referring to recent criminal incidents, including the killing of social media influencer Mad Sandhu in Amritsar, Dhillon said the government must take effective action on the ground instead of merely making statements.
Make Him Think: Morne Morkel Reveals How India Are Nurturing Sooryavanshi
Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee: India bowling coach Morne Morkel believes young opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi can make significant strides simply by being around an experienced Indian dressing room, urging the teenager to observe, ask questions and absorb the habits of established players as India begin their five-match T20I series against West Indies here on Tuesday. Two Lucknow-based IPL pacers, Mayank Yadav and Prince Yadav, will also return to Indias T20I setup in the series opener at the Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, with the management pondering over its bowling combinations on a pitch that is expected to offer a mix of pace, bounce and spin. But Morkel believes Sooryavanshis growth should not be judged by the amount of game time he gets, with the 14-year-old already reaping the benefits of being around senior players and watching them prepare and react to different situations. Yeah, I mean, we all know the talent of Ivan. I think the more time he spends in this environment with the quality players, the more time he trains at this standard, will only be great for his cricket. And if he's not getting that game time, he's still on a bus, in the dugout, in the hotel with guys with a lot of experience. And I think with him sharing that sort of dressing room and talking to guys, or just actually watching how the guys go through their processes and how they set up innings, will be key for him, Morkel said in the pre-match press conference in Lucknow on Monday. Im a big believer that sometimes, if you put guys in the right environment and they can ask the right questions and they can observe. So I always challenge them; I say, watch what this guy is doing in training, how does he face his first 15 balls? When the wicket is doing stuff, what sort of game plan does he come up with? And for any young player, if he gets game time or if that game time is a little limited, its still our job to make sure that these guys learn, they grow, and they ask questions. Morkel said he also encourages the young batter to reflect on what he has learnt from each training session. I think that for me is a fantastic growth sort of mind map. I mean, I'm a fast bowler; I can't really talk too much about batting, but I always ask him on the bus, ' What's one thing you've learned today? Tell me, what did you think about that guy's batting? And that makes him think. And I think next time when he comes to nets, those sort of things he'll observe; he'll adapt to his game, he added. While Sooryavanshis role at the top could depend on Indias combination, Morkel expects the management to assess the players returning from the Asian Games before finalising the XI. Im pretty sure Gautam will look to rotate. I mean, as I said, that is up to the selectors, and obviously the coach and the captain in terms of the playing 11, or which playing 11 will be the best to win a game for India on home soil. And that will always be the main focus, Morkel said. In terms of the starting 11, as I said, the guys just came back from the Asian Games, so we'll assess how everybody is feeling after jet lag, after travelling, and then from there make a plan. India enter the T20I leg after winning the preceding three-match ODI series 2-1, although the West Indies finished that contest on a high by taking the final game at New Chandigarh. India will also carry the confidence of their Asian Games campaign, where they won the men's T20 gold medal. Morkel expects the transition between formats to provide a stern test, particularly with West Indies possessing a batting line-up capable of putting pressure on the bowling attack from the outset. Yeah, I think, you know, waiting for the spectators, it's going to be fantastic viewing. I think for both sides at the moment, the red flag or the problem might be, you know, our guys travelling back after the Asian Games. Some of the guys only arrived a couple of days ago, so jet lag, getting over the journey. But I think once we are up and running and we get the series going, we are all really looking forward to it, Morkel added. The immediate challenge for India will be adapting to a fresh format while also continuing to build their player pool, with the 2027 ODI World Cup already behind them and the next global tournament still some distance away. Look, the main goal always will be to win the games. I think this group of players have played some exceptional cricket over the last couple of years. The guys who got opportunities came in and, you know, they've done a brilliant job, Morkel said. Yes, it will be great for Indian cricket if we keep on growing that pool, keep on giving guys that experience of the taste of what it is to play in an Indian shirt. And also a nice opportunity for guys who were out of the loop for a while to come back. One such returnee is Mayank Yadav, whose comeback from injury adds another dimension to Indias pace attack. You know, Mayank Yadav, he's back from injury, so look forward to seeing how he goes when he gets an opportunity. So I think it is sort of looking at the bigger picture, but also you want to win games for India. You want to give the guys who have done well so far to continue that, and yeah, we look forward to the series, and we'll take it as it comes. Mayanks raw pace gives India an X-factor that is difficult to replicate, while Prince Yadav has taken a different route into the international setup after initially being a net bowler. I mean, if you look at Mayank, immediately that comes to mind is his pace, his X-factor. I think for me, Prince, where he was a net bowler a couple of years ago, he's now playing for India. That resilience, the hard work that he's put into his game to reach international stages, is admirable, Morkel said. For me, that shows that these guys are hardworking players. Mayank had a couple of setbacks with injury, back-to-back setbacks with that; for a young player to get through that, and then again to find themselves in the situation to play for India just shows character. Both pacers have a particularly strong connection with the venue, having represented Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL, and their knowledge of the Ekana surface could prove useful for India. The question, however, is whether India will lean heavily on that local knowledge. Of course, you know, one aspect is obviously for them to share their knowledge, what they found playing here. But to be honest with you, I think for us it is about... we talk about that, but it's not to make that our main focus, Morkel said. Like I said, the strength of this team moving forward will be how individuals can, at the moment, adapt to some of the conditions and how they can execute that. Of course, we'll look at all the players, we'll come up with plans, but I think that is the winning moment in white-ball cricketis that decision under pressure as a bowler with a captain. What's the best decision you can make, and can you execute that? Execution could be especially important with the conditions on Pitch No. 5, the centre strip, being used for the contest. The pitch is a combination of red and black soil surface; Lucknow saw a lot of runs in IPL 2026 after being a little more bowler-friendly in the first part of the season. There has been some rain around the city too, with both teams practice sessions affected on Monday, although no rain is forecast during match hours on Tuesday. There are a few showers expected during the day, but conditions should be clear when the match kicks off. The Ekana wicket has been tricky to read over the years. The last T20I played here was against New Zealand in 2023, when India chased down 100 successfully, but that was before the surfaces were re-laid. IPL 2026 was a tale of two halves for the venue. Bowlers had help in the initial half of the tournament with movement and bounce on the more bowler-friendly pitches, while in the second half the pitches flattened out quite a bit. Any moisture left from the recent rain could bring the seamers back into the contest early, while the surface is generally considered good for batting and can bring spinners into play as the ball gets older. Morkel said India will not enter the match with a rigid pace-versus-spin blueprint. Look, I don't think there is one sort of blueprint or thing we're gonna go with. We'll come up with the best solution for how we think we're going to win games. If it's extra pace, if it's extra spin, that is yet to be determined, but for me, it's always my sort of feel here in T20 or especially white-ball cricket; it's good wickets, so yeah, I think you get tested on your execution. That execution could become even more important against a West Indies side known for aggressive batting. Morkel expects both teams to have to read conditions quickly rather than rely solely on pre-match plans. Yeah, look, I mean, I just walked past the square now; I haven't had a proper look at the wicket. We'll assess sort of the conditions as best as possible tonight. We understand that in this series it's going to be a high-scoring game. Your skills will be tested; execution, most importantly, will be tested, he said. In a short turnaround, we'll try and plan as best as possible. But I think the key for both teams is how we can read the conditions and how you can come up with the best plans in that moment, and then, as I said, execution is going to be key. The size of the Ekana boundaries could also increase the value of having additional bowling options. But I think purely on that, you need to see what the conditions are like, and from there you can make a play. But from my point of view, the more bowling options we can have on a night, as a captain, at times that can help, Morkel said. So I think it's about always keeping these guys ready, and then from there reading the conditions, reading what the wicket is doing, boundary sizes. Obviously we've got a luxury here that it's quite a big field, so these guys come into the conversation a lot more. India could also have a selection call to make between Ravi Bishnoi and Kuldeep Yadav, with the latter returning to the T20I setup after last playing the format in February. Morkel said Kuldeeps confidence and rhythm have returned at the right time. Look, I think Kuldeep spoke about it in the past after the ODI series that he feels he's bowling well again. And that is great news for us. As a bowler, sometimes we can struggle with our rhythm; it takes a little bit longer at times to find that, but for us, he's a massive match-winner, he's confident, he's bowling well. India could also have a selection call to make between Ravi Bishnoi and Kuldeep Yadav, with the latter returning to the T20I setup after last playing the format in February. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Punjab Cabinet clears Ranjitgarh Development Authority Bill
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 5 (IANS) The Punjab Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, on Monday approved the Ranjitgarh Development Authority (RDA) Bill, 2026. The Chief Ministers Office said the Ranjitgarh Development Authority Bill would provide for the establishment of the Ranjitgarh Development Authority for the planned, sustainable and eco-tourism-oriented development of the Ranjit Sagar Dam and Shahpur Kandi Dam areas. The authority will be constituted as a statutory body under the administrative control of the Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs. It will be vested with the requisite administrative, financial and regulatory powers for integrated development, land management, project implementation and destination governance. The authority will be chaired by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, with the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs serving as Vice-Chairman. An Executive Committee headed by the Chief Secretary will oversee its day-to-day functioning and inter-departmental coordination. The Cabinet also approved the creation of new driver posts in the office of the Chief Electoral Officer. These posts have been created by surrendering peon posts from among 19 permanent positions and one permanent post of Moharrir. The move is aimed at streamlining the functioning of the office of the Chief Electoral Officer. The Cabinet also approved an amendment to Appendix-B of the Punjab Nursing Education Service Rules (Group B), 2016, for filling the posts of tutor in Government College of Nursing, Patiala, and Government College of Nursing, Amritsar, under the Department of Medical Education and Research through promotion. The posts will be filled from among staff nurses and nursing sisters working regularly under the control of the Director, Research and Medical Education, Punjab, who have obtained an M.Sc. (Nursing) in the relevant speciality. Preference will be given to candidates having one year of teaching experience in nursing education. The Cabinet also gave concurrence for the regularisation of the services of non-teaching staff working on a contractual basis under the Punjab Information and Communication Technology Education Society (PICTES). The employees to be regularised will be extended the benefit of regularisation under PICTES in the prescribed pay scales.
Arijit Singh announces 9-city India Tour 2027 to mark 20 years in music
Arijit Singh has announced his biggest-ever India tour, which will take him across nine cities between January and May 2027. The tour will mark 20 years of his journey in the music industry and bring his music to audiences across some of the countrys large-scale venues. Titled Kotak Solitaire presents Arijit Singh India Tour 2027 powered by Visa, the tour will begin in Ahmedabad on January 9 and conclude in Hyderabad on May 15. The singer will also perform in Chandigarh, Jaipur, Mumbai, Bengaluru, New Delhi, Pune and Indore. Produced and promoted by Team Innovation, the tour will feature multiple stadium-scale presentations. Tickets will be available exclusively through thumpN. The performances are expected to feature songs from different phases of Arijit Singhs career, covering the music that has connected with listeners over the years. The production will include a multi-tiered stage with an extended runway, allowing the singer to perform closer to different sections of the audience. The shows will also feature 360-degree spatial audio, LED fixtures, panoramic screens, laser arrays and pyrotechnics. Speaking about the tour, Arijit Singh said, 20 years of music is a journey I feel very grateful for. The greatest part of it has always been the people - the listeners who have given these songs a life of their own. Im really looking forward to travelling across India and experiencing that love together, live on stage. There are so many songs, so many memories and so many people to meet. I cant wait. Mohit Bijlani, Founder, Team Innovation, said, We take immense pride in presenting a nationwide tour of this magnitude to audiences across the country. Bringing Indias most loved voice to so many cities is a deeply meaningful milestone for our team. It is a genuine tribute to an extraordinary musical legacy, and we are thrilled to create an unprecedented live event. Every single detail of this journey is being designed to world-class standards, offering fans a live experience at a scale never seen before in his home country. Varun Khare, CEO, thumpN, said, There are very few artists whose announcement can make an entire country stop and ask one question: When do the tickets go on sale? Arijit Singh is one of them. His music has an extraordinary ability to bring people together - and we expect these shows to be exactly that. Thousands of people singing the same words, at the same time, in the same place. For thumpN, being the ticketing platform for this tour is a privilege. Our job is to make sure that getting from I need to be there to actually being there in the moment is as seamless as possible. Were incredibly excited to bring this experience to fans across all 9 cities. Alaap Gosher, CEO & Co-Founder, TM Ventures, said, This tour has been an exciting opportunity to bring together the experience and expertise of the people weve worked with for over 13 years with a fresh team of creative minds and new perspectives. Theres something powerful about combining deep knowledge of the artist and his live journey with a new generation of creative thinking. With an artist like Arijit, the ambition has always been to keep evolving the live experience, and this time we wanted to challenge ourselves to look at the show through a completely fresh lens - bringing new ideas and approaches while staying rooted in what makes his connection with audiences so unique. Its been an incredible journey of combining experience with fresh thinking to build something that feels both familiar and completely new, and we cant wait for audiences across India to experience it. Gaurav Ramdev, Head Of Marketing, India And South Asia, Visa, said, Music has an incredible power to connect people, and Arijit Singh's journey over the past 20 years reflects that beautifully. At Visa, we believe in being present wherever our cardholders want to be, whether that's an everyday purchase or a once-in-a-lifetime moment. This tour represents millions of fans coming together to celebrate songs that have become the soundtrack to their lives, and we're proud to help make those moments possible. Because at Visa, we don't just enable transactions, we power the extraordinary moments that move people. The Kotak Solitaire Visa Credit Card pre-sale will begin on October 10, 2026, at 12 PM and continue until October 11 at 2 PM. The pre-sale for all Kotak Visa Credit Cards will run from October 11 at 12 PM to October 13 at 2 PM. The general sale will begin on October 13 at 2 PM onwards. Also Read : Arijit Singh voices Main Na Raha Mera title track featuring Adhyayan Suman and Divita Rai
No guarantees for Sooryavanshi as India look to build on Asian Games success
West Indies will hope to carry the momentum from their ODI win in New Chandigarh
