Chandigarh Diary | Governor cancels Rajasthan visit amid tensions

The intensifying hostilities between India and Pakistan last week prompted Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria to change his travel plans and get into immediate action. According to sources privy to the development, Kataria contacted the Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendent of Police of border districts to assess the ongoing situation. Following this, the Governor convened an all-party meeting and organised a sarva dharma gathering at the Raj Bhawan on Saturday. Leaders from various political parties, including Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, were present. Leaders seek special package for Punjab In view of the challenging situation at Punjab border due to operations and counter-operations between India and Pakistan, leaders of all political parties have come together to demand a special package for the state. CM Bhagwant Mann stressed that the state is always the first to bear the brunt during wars and escalations. State Congress leader and LoP Partap Singh Bajwa also pressed for a package for the development of the six border districts. He urged the introduction of a robust economic stimulus package to foster long-term stability and growth in the areas. BJP state president Sunil Jakhar echoed the same during an all-party meeting. Locals gather around drone wreckage After being neutralised by Indias air defence system, remnants and debris from drones and a suspected missile were scattered across several villages in Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Tarn Taran, Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, Bathinda, and Ferozepur. This drew large crowds of people who were eager to see the debris. Social media flooded with videos of locals taking photos and making reels with the remnants, pointing out various parts. Many people discussed what to do with the debris, touching it out of curiosity. Some even attempted to take pieces home or considered selling them to scrap dealers. In response, CM Bhagwant Mann urged the public to stay away from debris. Harpreet Bajwa Our correspondent in Chandigarh hsbajwa73@gmail.com

No normalcy? Schools in border areas of Punjab shut

Blackouts were enforced in Amritsar and Hoshiarpur's Dasuya and Mukerian areas as a precautionary measure. Electricity supply in Amritsar was restored at 11:42 pm on Monday.

India-Pakistan tensions: Schools remain closed in Punjabs border districts

Blackouts were enforced in Amritsar and Hoshiarpur`s Dasuya and Mukerian areas as a precautionary measure. Electricity supply in Amritsar was restored at 11:42 pm on Monday

Punjab: Schools in Amritsar, Pathankot, Fazilka, Ferozepur, Tarn Taran remain shut

Punjab border districts faced closures. Schools shut down in Amritsar, Pathankot, and other areas. Blackouts occurred in Amritsar and Hoshiarpur. An IndiGo flight to Amritsar returned to Delhi. Drone activity was reported in Jalandhar. Armed forces neutralized a suspected drone. India and Pakistan had previously agreed to halt military actions. Normalcy was returning with markets reopening.

Drones sighted in Jalandhar, blackout in Amritsar, airport temporarily closed

CHANDIGARH: DRONES were reportedly sighted late Monday evening over Jalandhar and Hoshiarpur in Punjab, and a surveillance drone was brought down in Jalandhar. A blackout was enforced tonight in Amritsar, Hoshiarpur and parts of Jalandhar districts. The Amritsar International Airport has been temporarily closed for civil operations. It reopened this morning. An Amritsar-bound flight from Delhi was asked to turn back. Sources claimed a drone sighting near Sura Nussa in Jalandhar, near the Indian armys ammunition depot. Another sighting was reported in Unchi Bassi, between Mukerian and Dasuya in Hoshiarpur district, on the Jammu national highway. Electricity was immediately switched off in some parts of Jalandhar city, Dasuya, and Mukerian. An air-raid siren was sounded in the border city of Amritsar, followed by a blackout. An IndiGo Delhi-Amritsar flight that was on its way to the holy city from the national capital returned to Delhi. A few other commercial flights were rerouted to avoid overflying that area. The IndiGo flight, which had taken off from Delhi at 8.26 pm, landed back in Delhi around 9.15 pm. Sources said the Amritsar airport has reportedly been closed until further notice. Jalandhar DC Himanshu Aggarwal wrote on X, I have been informed that the Armed forces brought down one surveillance drone at around 9:20 pm near village Mand. Meanwhile, Hoshiarpur Deputy Commissioner Aashika Jain said, We got information around 8:30 pm that some objects were spotted in the sky, and this information is still under verification. What kind of objects were those? The armed forces are engaging with them. The blackout is in force until further orders. Amritsar DC Sakshi Sawhney, asked the people to switch off lights and move away from the windows.

Drone sighting in Punjab triggers blackouts; one surveillance drone shot down, Amritsar airport shut again

CHANDIGARH: Drones were reportedly sighted late this evening over Jalandhar and Hoshiarpur districts in Punjab, with one surveillance drone brought down by Indian armed forces near Jalandhar. The incidents occurred shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modis address to the nation. In response, blackouts were imposed in Amritsar, Hoshiarpur, and parts of Jalandhar district. Civil operations at Amritsar International Airport, which had resumed only today after a temporary closure, were again suspended. An Amritsar-bound IndiGo flight from Delhi was forced to return mid-air. Sources reported that one drone was sighted near Suranassi in Jalandhar, where an Indian Army ammunition depot is located. Another drone sighting occurred at Unchi Bassi, between Mukerian and Dasuya in Hoshiarpur district along the Jammu National Highway. As a precaution, electricity supply was cut in certain areas of Jalandhar. In Dasuya and Mukerian, the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) disconnected power from the grid following instructions from the local administration. An air-raid siren was sounded in Amritsar, which lies near the international border, followed by a citywide blackout. An IndiGo DelhiAmritsar flight (6E), which had taken off at 8:26 PM, returned to Delhi and landed at around 9:15 PM. Several other flights were diverted to avoid overflying the affected airspace. Amritsar airport, which had resumed operations after being shut since 7 May, has now been closed again until further notice, according to sources. Drones sighted, engaged by air defence system in J&Ks Samba Deputy Commissioner of Jalandhar, Himanshu Aggarwal, posted on X: As a precautionary measure, lights have been switched off in some areas around Suranassi due to drone sighting reports. We are verifying the sightings. There is no cause for alarm. The Armed Forces remain on regular vigil. In a follow-up message, Aggarwal confirmed: I have been informed that one surveillance drone was brought down by the Armed Forces around 9:20 PM near village Mand. An expert team is searching for the debris. Citizens are requested not to go near any suspected debris and to report it immediately to the nearest police station. No drone activity has been seen in Jalandhar since 10 PM. He further added: I urge residents to stay calm and not to burst firecrackers, as some reports have emerged. Strict police action will be taken against anyone creating panic. Light has been cut off in some areas of Jalandhar as a precaution. The situation will be reviewed shortly. There is nothing to worry about. Hoshiarpur Deputy Commissioner Aashika Jain said: We received information around 8:30 PM that some unidentified objects were seen in the sky. The nature of the objects is still under verification. The Armed Forces are actively engaged. We have imposed blackouts in areas like Dasuya and Mukerian and advised residents in other parts of the district to remain alert. When asked about reports of explosions in the Unchi Bassi area of Hoshiarpur, she responded: That information is also being verified by Army authorities. The blackout remains in place until further orders. Once we receive inputs from Army and Air Force authorities, we will decide whether to extend or withdraw the blackout. The Amritsar administration also appealed for calm. Deputy Commissioner Sakshi Sawhney posted on X: You will hear a siren. We are on alert and initiating a blackout. Please switch off your lights and move away from windows. Stay calm we will inform you when it is safe to restore the power supply. Do not panic. This is a precautionary step. Sources said schools in the border districts of Punjab will remain closed tomorrow, following instructions issued by the concerned district authorities.

Blackout back in Punjab after Pak breaches truce

Blackout measures have been imposed in many districts including Hoshiarpur, Ferozepur, Fazilka, Pathankot, Patiala, Moga, Kapurthala, and Muktsar districts.

Blackout Reimposed In Several Punjab Districts As Precautionary Measure

Chandigarh, May 10: Punjab reimposed blackout measures in several districts as a precautionary measure after withdrawing it earlier on Saturday. Blackout measures have been imposed in Hoshiarpur, Ferozepur, Fazilka, Pathankot, Patiala, Moga and Muktsar districts. The development comes about two hours after district authorities in Punjab withdrew blackout measures and restrictive orders after India and Pakistan agreed to an immediate ceasefire. Deputy Commissioner (Amritsar) Sakshi Sahwney said, Since there are reports of ceasefire violation, we will remain on alert [] The post Blackout Reimposed In Several Punjab Districts As Precautionary Measure appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Pakistan ceasefire breach triggers blackouts, security measures in border areas of Punjab, Haryana

CHANDIGARH: Within hours of India and Pakistan declaring a ceasefire, the neighbouring country unilaterally broke the peace by indulging in shelling along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir. Following this, blackouts were re-imposed in several districts of Punjab, as well as in Ambala, Haryana, which houses a key air force base. Sources said complete blackouts were suddenly imposed as a precautionary measure in six border districts of PunjabAmritsar, Tarn Taran, Gurdaspur, Pathankot, Ferozepur, and Fazilkaafter local administrations were alerted about ceasefire violations by Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir. Blasts in Srinagar after ceasefire shock residents; all okay now, clarifies Centre Additional blackouts were also enforced in Moga, Sangrur, Patiala, Hoshiarpur, Muktsar, Barnala, and Bathinda. Street lights were switched off in many parts of the state. Ambala in Haryana also faced blackout due to its strategic air force base. Sources claimed that a drone was spotted in Fazilka and Pathankot districts. Earlier in the day, the district administrations of Sangrur, Rupnagar, and Fazilka had withdrawn blackout orders, while authorities in districts like Jalandhar, Kapurthala, and Patiala also cancelled restrictive orders. Local authorities in districts including Jalandhar, Pathankot, and Kapurthala had advised the closure of markets and commercial establishments and urged citizens to avoid large gatherings in the wake of the ongoing tension between India and Pakistan. India agrees to a ceasefire with Pakistan after call from across the border

Debris of unidentified projectiles found in Punjab's Hoshiarpur

Debris from unidentified projectiles was discovered in two villages in Punjab's Hoshiarpur district on Saturday morning. Authorities reported no casualties or property damage in Sikri and Sandhra villages. Police promptly notified the Indian Air Force, and the objects were taken by armed forces for examination and disposal, amidst ongoing tensions and recent strikes on terror launchpads.

Markets shut in Pathankot after explosion-like sounds; air sirens ring out in Punjab districts

CHANDIGARH: Pathankot in Punjab went into alert mode on Saturday after explosion-like sounds were heard in the border district, with the local authorities ordering closure of markets in the region as a precautionary measure. After a night of bristling tension, people woke up to explosion-like sounds in Pathankot and Jalandhar districts, while air sirens rang out in Hoshiarpur, Amritsar and Ferozepur amid a sharp upturn in the military conflict between India and Pakistan. Punjab shares a 532-km border with Pakistan. The district authorities in Pathankot has set up a control room, which will function round-the-clock for the convenience of the people, officials said. Pathankot Deputy Commissioner Aditya Uppal has urged people that if any material or object falls from the sky, they should inform the nearest police station or contact the control room. It has been observed that some people pick up such items and they take them, which can prove dangerous, Uppal said, as he warned of legal action against such persons. He also asked people that if any such material is found lying on the ground, they should neither go near it nor touch it. Besides Pathankot, people also heard explosion-like sounds in Jalandhar district on Saturday morning, while air sirens rang out in Hoshiarpur, Amritsar and Ferozepur, officials said. In Haryana's Sirsa too, some locals claimed they heard blast-like sounds after midnight. A police officer from Sirsa said debris of an unidentified metallic object landed in the fields of a village shortly past midnight. We were sleeping when we heard a loud sound. In the morning, we found that a metallic object had fallen in the fields. Later, defence personnel came and collected the debris, a villager said. Border areas of Gujarat on high alert, Indian Army downs suspected Pakistani drone at Kutch The debris of an unidentified projectile which landed amid the military conflict between India and Pakistan, being taken away, in Sirsa, Haryana, Saturday, May 10, 2025. An unidentified projectile also landed in a residential area at Kanganiwal village in Jalandhar district early Saturday, officials said. The locals said a migrant labourer was injured in the incident, while a few houses in the area also sustained damages. Parts of the unidentified object were lying in the area, they said. I was standing near a window when some object hit a water tank (of a house) around 1.30 am, shattering glasses of 4-5 houses before landing, a woman from the area said. A migrant labourer who suffered injuries on his arm was taken to the hospital, she said. Satinder Kumar, a local, said, The water tank of our house was damaged, while many window panes were also shattered. There was smoke all around. Another local resident, Muskan, too said a big explosion took place at night that forced several people to come out of their homes. One car was damaged...We were all scared, she said. Sharing her experience, Surjit Kaur said a red-coloured light flashed in the sky which was followed by a big explosion. Water tanks of some other houses in the area were also damaged, she said. Jalandhar Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Aggarwal has urged people to avoid large gatherings or crowding as part of the precautionary measures. He also urged people to avoid moving out in the open or in tall buildings, besides ordering closure of markets in Jalandhar Cantt and Adampur. Malls and high-rise commercial buildings in the rest of the district will remain closed today, Aggarwal said, asking people to stay calm. Akshita Gupta, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Phagwara, said an advisory has been issued to keep all marketplaces, barring medical stores, closed in Phagwara city on Saturday. Malls and commercial high-rises in the rest of the district will also remain closed, officials said. In Kapurthala too, all the commercial establishments remained closed on Saturday. Debris of unidentified objects were also found at some places at Beas in Amritsar, Jalandhar, Ferozepur, Pathankot and Tarn Taran districts, officials said. An unidentified object fell in a field between Khalyan and Sahni villages in Phagwara district early Saturday, officials said. Locals said an explosion-like sound was heard at 2.40 am from the fields of Major Singh at Khalyan village towards Sahni. The impact of the unidentified object created a crater about 7-8 feet deep and 12-14 feet wide in the field, the officials said. Similarly, an unidentified projectile fell in a field at Chhichhra village in Gurdaspur district early Saturday, leaving a crater. The strikes followed after Pakistan launched a fresh wave of drone attacks targeting 26 locations in India -- from Jammu and Kashmir to Gujarat -- for the second night on Friday. According to officials, the security forces thwarted multiple drone attacks launched by Pakistan in Ferozepur, Pathankot, Fazilka and Amritsar districts. In Ferozepur, three members of a family were injured on Friday night after a crashing projectile from a Pakistani drone destroyed by the Indian air defence system landed at their house at Khai Pheme Ke village, setting the structure and a car on fire. Tensions between India and Pakistan soared significantly after the Indian armed forces on Wednesday conducted precision strikes targeting terror launchpads in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to the April 22 Pahalgam attack that had cross-border linkages. Pakistan moving troops in forward areas, launched strikes at multiple locations: Indian govt

Drones neutralised, Jalandhar on red alert overnight

Jalandhar and surrounding areas experienced blasts overnight, prompting a red alert and the neutralisation of suspected missiles or drones. Debris damaged a house in Kangniwal, injuring one. Alerts were issued in Jalandhar and Hoshiarpur, with market closures and safety advisories implemented. Debris was also found in Kapurthala, and a drone fell into the Beas River, leading to precautionary measures.

Pakistani drone attacks thwarted in Punjab; three of family injured in Ferozepur

Authorities enforced blackouts at many places, including Ferozepur, Pathankot, Amritsar, Hoshiarpur, Fazilka, Muktsar and Sangrur

Unidentified Object Explodes In Jalandhar Village; Air Sirens Ring Out In Amritsar, Hoshiarpur

CHANDIGARH, May 10: After a night of bristling tension, people woke up to explosion-like sounds in Punjabs Pathankot and Jalandhar districts, while air sirens rang out in Hoshiarpur, Amritsar and Ferozepur districts, as the military conflict between India and Pakistan took a sharp upturn, officials said. In Haryanas Sirsa too, some locals claimed they heard blast-like sounds after midnight. An unidentified projectile landed in a residential area at Kanganiwal village in Punjabs Jalandhar district early Saturday, officials said. The locals [] The post Unidentified Object Explodes In Jalandhar Village; Air Sirens Ring Out In Amritsar, Hoshiarpur appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Pakistani drones hit Punjab border: 3 of family injured in Ferozepur, missile-like debris found in villages

Following a night of explosions and flares amid a pre-announced blackout, suspected Pakistani drones and missile-like objects were discovered in Punjab's border villages. In Ferozepur, a drone strike injured three family members and damaged their home, while similar objects were found in fields in Bathinda and Hoshiarpur, causing damage to property and prompting investigations by authorities and bomb disposal squads.

Punjab Roadways suspends bus service to Jammu

Jammu Tawi, May 9: Punjab Roadways has suspended its bus service from Hoshiarpur to Jammu for the day due to the military conflict between India and Pakistan, an official said on Friday. Jasvir Kotla, General Manager of Punjab Roadways, Hoshiarpur, said none of the depots buses were sent to Jammu on Friday as a precautionary [] The post Punjab Roadways suspends bus service to Jammu appeared first on Northlines .

Three of family injured in Pakistani drone attack in Punjab, blackout in six border districts of state

CHANDIGARH: Three members of a family were injured in a village in Ferozepur as Pakistan launched drones into border districts of Punjab on Friday night. Multiple explosions were heard as the drones were neutralized. A widespread blackout was enforced in six border districts: Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Pathankot, Ferozepur, Fazilka and Tarn Taran. Sources said that drones were sighted in Jammu and Samba in Jammu and Kashmir and Pathankot, Ferozepur and Fazilka in Punjab. One drone fell on a house in Khai Feme Ke village injuring three members of a family. They were identified as Monu Singh son of Lakhwinder Singh. Sukhwinder Kaur, the wife of Lakhwinder. They were rushed to a private hospital. A senior officer on condition of anonymity said, There was a heavy drone attack in Ferozepur and a drone was neutralized. As it fell down in a ball of fire, it hit a house in Khai Feme Ke village near Ferozepur. Three of a family have burn injuries and were rushed a hospital. The lady was cooking food at that time and has maximum burn injuries, while her husband and son have also been burnt. Sources said the village is situated close to the army cantonment, and the drone attack was perhaps aimed to hit the army installation there but it landed in the village. Earlier, the Pakistan Army launched a series of drones in this border town on Friday evening. Several red coloured flying objects (swarm drones) could be seen coming one after another. Massive drone attacks also targetted the Srinagar airport and Awantipora airfield in south Kashmir on Friday evening. In addition to these locations, drones have been sighted at 26 locations ranging the Baramulla in the North to Bhuj in the South, along both the International Border and the Line of Control with Pakistan. These include suspected armed drones posing potential threats to civilian and military targets, according to an army statement. The locations include Baramulla, Srinagar, Avantipora, Nagrota, Jammu, Ferozpur, Pathankot, Fazilka, Lalgarh Jatta, Jaisalmer, Barmer, Bhuj, Kuarbet and Lakhi Nala. As per information, some of these drones were carrying explosvies and a few of them were meant for surveillance. Meanwhile, Army personnel have taken over the security of important bridges and other strategic installations in Ferozepur city. Deputy Commissioner of Ferozepur Deepshikha Sharma said that teams have been dispatched to the village where the house was damaged. Sources said that complete blackouts were imposed in the six border districts of the state at 8 pm as sirens went on and the authorities switched off the power supply. Besides the border districts, a blackout was also imposed in Hoshiarpur. Locals claim that sounds of explosions were heard in Ferozepur, Amritsar and Pathankot. On Thursday night too, there was a blackout in most of the districts in the state and electricity was back only on Friday morning around 5.30 am. Why military strategists are questioning Pakistan's abilities after Operation Sindoor The Airport Authority has extended the suspension period for all types of flights till May 15 at Sri Guru Ramdas International Airport, Amritsar. In a statement issued here, the Airport Authority said, It is intimated to all concerned that suspension of all commercial/civil domestic and international flight operations from Amritsar Airport is further extended till 05.30 hrs on 15.05.2025. The ban has also been extended at Chandigarh airport. In Haryana, the Deputy Commissioner of Ambala has ordered a complete blackout from 8 pm till 6 am. The orders in this regard issued by District Magistrate Ajay Singh Tomer also banned the use of inverters or generators for outdoor lighting. In view of the prevailing circumstances and intelligence inputs indicating a potential air strike threat from Pakistan, it is imperative to ensure complete blackout during the night hours to safeguard public safety and strategic interests. The use of inverter, generator and any other power backup used for outdoor lights, bill board, street lights etc may invite a terror/drone attack, the order reads. However, these may be used for indoor use on condition that all doors and windows are fully covered by thick curtains, so as to ensure no lights come out. In view of the emergent situation and shortage of time, this order is being passed ex-parte and is being addressed to the general public, it said. Any person found guilty of violating of the order shall be prosecuted and punished as per the law under Section 223 of the BNSS, it added. An advisory issued by Bilaspur District Magistrate Rahul Kumar appealed to the residents to ensure a complete blackout in their respective areas to minimise risks in the event of a potential aerial attack. Bilaspur district in Himachal Pradesh shares a boundary with Punjab which is on high alert following the escalating tensions with Pakistan. As per the guidelines issued by the district administration, all lights, both outdoor and indoor, must be turned off during night hours, while citizens have been advised to remain in sheltered locations and avoid unnecessary travel. Also, vehicular movement should be halted at night to facilitate the smooth functioning of security forces in case of any emergency. Pakistani drone attack on Pokhran foiled; Rajasthan border on red alert, blackout enforced This advisory has been issued in public interest. The administration requests strict compliance from all residents. Restraint and vigilance are the strongest shields in such situations, it said. Meanwhile, all educational institutions were shut in Una district on Friday for, which a notification was issued late on Thursday night. The Chandigarh administration has directed all shops selling non-essential items, such as clothing, eating joints, hotels, restaurants, and malls, to close starting at 7 pm. Shops selling essential items, including medicines, are exempt from the directive and can remain open. According to Deputy Commissioner Nishant Kumar Yadav, the order is in effect for Friday only, and shops can resume their usual operations in the morning. Meanwhile, on Friday morning, the Chandigarh administration sounded a fresh air raid siren, appealing to people to remain indoors. About an hour later, it said the siren for the alert was over. In the neighbouring Mohali, cinema halls and shopping malls will remain closed daily from 8 pm to 6 am until further notice. India confronting challenge of terrorism, shared threat to international community: EAM Jaishankar

India-Pakistan Conflict: Blackout In Several Punjab Districts; Loud Explosions Heard In Pathankot, Ferozepur

Air raid sirens were sounded in Ferozepur, Pathankot, Amritsar and Hoshiarpur districts.

Bus Service From Punjabs Hoshiarpur To Jammu Suspended

Hoshiarpur, May 9: Punjab Roadways has suspended its bus service from Hoshiarpur to Jammu for the day due to the military conflict between India and Pakistan, an official said on Friday. Jasvir Kotla, general manager of Punjab Roadways, Hoshiarpur, said none of the depots buses were sent to Jammu on Friday as a precautionary step in light of the prevailing situation. In view of the current tense atmosphere resembling war-like conditions between India and Pakistan, no Punjab Roadways buses from [] The post Bus Service From Punjabs Hoshiarpur To Jammu Suspended appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Debris resembling parts of missile found in Punjab

Debris resembling parts of a missile was found in a field in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, while metal parts of unidentified objects were discovered at two locations in Bathinda, sparking panic among locals. The incidents come after India successfully thwarted Pakistan's attempts to target military installations with drones and missiles across the country.

Debris resembling parts of missile found in Hoshiarpur, Bathinda in Punjab; tension prevails in border villages

CHANDIGARH: Amid soaring tension between India and Pakistan, debris resembling parts of a missile was found in the fields near Kamahi Devi village in Hoshiarpur district. Such objects were found at three more places in Bathinda district of Punjab. The metal debris was found Thursday evening and appeared akin to a missile. Acting promptly, the villagers informed the police. The Indian Air Force (IAF) was also informed. Thereafter, the area was cordoned off. An IAF team arrived at the spot and conducted preliminary investigation before collecting the debris, sources said. Debris resembling that of missiles were also found near Bir Talab Basti number 4 area in Bathinda, at Gehri Baghi village in the district. Also, a house in Tungwali village sustained minor damage during the incident reported last night as the windows and door panes were shattered due to an explosion. A shed in the house was also damaged. The police reached the site early on Friday morning. The villagers said that such minor incidents are common in war-like situations. Local MLA Master Jagsir Singh who visited the area praised the courage of the villagers. Meanwhile on Friday morning the Chandigarh Administration sounded a fresh air raid siren, appealing to people to remain indoors. An air warning has been received from the air force station of a possible attack. Sirens are being sounded. All are advised to remain indoors and stay away from balconies, an official statement issued by the Chandigarh administration said. About an hour later, it said the siren for the alert was over. Uneasy calm in J&K as India-Pakistan tensions escalate, border residents move to safer places The people across the state especially border districts Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Ferozepur, Fazilka, Taran Taran and Pathankot had a tense night following complete blackout. Meanwhile, the SAS Nagar district administration on Friday began installing new air raid sirens with 30 requisitioned for Kharar and 20 for Zirakpur and Dera Bassi. The state government has allocated emergency funds to all the deputy commissioners across the state to address exigencies with the option to request additional funds as required in view of the prevailing situation. Also, the government has cancelled the leaves of all IAS and PCS officers in the state with immediate effect. In view of the prevailing situation and preparedness for the emergency response system, it has been decided that no officer shall proceed on any kind of leave or leave their station of posting without explicit approval of the Chief Secretary Punjab. All the leaves approved so far stand cancelled. Meticulous compliance may be ensured failing which suitable action under relevant rules shall be initiated, stated a letter issued by Punjab, secretary personnel, Gurpreet Kaur Sapra. The Punjab police has already cancelled the leave of its personnel. The Punjab Government has asked the Food Corporation of India (FCI) to immediately transfer the wheat that has been bought in the border districts of Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Gurdaspur, Pathankot, Ferozepur and Fazilka. A concerted effort has been put in to speed up the lifting of wheat from the six border districts of the state. Sources said that the government has informed the FCI officials to check the destination where the wheat needs to be sent and also check the availability of rakes for transporting the wheat. As on date, on an average about 15 rail rakes of wheat a day is moved from Punjab to the recipient states. Rajasthan remains on edge after drone attacks; blackout to be enforced in all border districts Meanwhile the Punjab Police has deployed specialized forces, including SOG Hits, SSG, and Ghatak teams, accompanied by bulletproof vehicles. Also in coordination with the BSF, 73 well-equipped nakas have been set-up at strategic points, enhancing the second line of defence. The Village Defence Committees (VDCs) have also been formed throughout the border areas to support local security measures. Apart from this, 14 additional companies of Punjab Armed Police have been deployed in border districts and state-level control rooms along with district-level control rooms have been established to ensure seamless communication and coordination among all security forces, said sources. In the neighboring Haryana, Deputy Commissioner of Ambala has ordered a complete blackout from 8 pm till 6 am. The orders in this regard were issued by District Magistrate Ajay Singh Tomer. The administration also banned the use of inverters or generators for outdoor lighting. In view of the prevailing circumstances and intelligence inputs indicating a potential air strike threat from Pakistan, it is imperative to ensure complete blackout during the night hours for public safety and strategic interests. And whereas, use of inverter, generator and any other power backup used for outdoor lights, bill board, street lights etc may invite any terror/drone attack in District Ambala, the order said. The order was issued under Section 163 (Power to issue order in urgent cases of nuisance or apprehended danger) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. IPL suspended for one week amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan

Punjab: Missile-like debris found in Hoshiarpur village; IAF called for probe (VIDEO)

Debris resembling parts of a missile was found in the fields near Kamahi Devi village in Hoshiarpur district on Thursday evening, officials said.

Debris From Pakistani Projectiles Intercepted By India Found In Bathinda, Hoshiarpur And Jaisalmer

The discovery of the debris comes after a night of reported explosions and heightened security measures in these border states.

Drones, blackouts, and sirens: People spend anxious night in border Punjab districts

Residents across border districts in Punjab including Amritsar, Pathankot, and Ferozepur, spent a tense night on Thursday as authorities enforced a complete blackout in response to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. Blackouts were also imposed in Jalandhar, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, and other regions, with power supply cut off in Chandigarh, the shared capital of Punjab and Haryana for about two hours until midnight. The precautionary measures followed a fresh wave of attempted attacks by Pakistan on Thursday night. According to the Ministry of Defence, Pakistan launched a coordinated offensive using drones and missiles to target military sites in multiple Indian cities, including Jammu, Pathankot, and Udhampur. The Indian armed forces swiftly intercepted the threats, successfully thwarting the strikes. The targeted locations included 15 cities across northern and western India, among them Srinagar, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bathinda, Chandigarh, Nal, Phalodi, Uttarlai, and Bhuj. These attempted strikes came just a day after the Indian military launched Operation Sindoor , a series of precision missile attacks on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). This operation was in retaliation for the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam. In Pathankot, some residents reported hearing explosion-like sounds on Thursday night, although no official confirmation was issued. Air raid sirens were activated around 8:30 p.m., and a complete blackout was enforced. By Friday morning, however, the situation remained calm. Similar scenes played out in other border districts like Amritsar and Ferozepur, where residents expressed initial anxiety but praised the armed forces for their quick and effective response. In Chandigarh, despite the blackout and tense atmosphere, daily life began returning to normal on Friday. Baldev Chand, an elderly local resident, resumed his morning walk, saying, There were some anxious moments last night, but the way our forces handled the situation makes us feel secure. Authorities across Punjab urged residents to stay indoors, switch off lights, and follow blackout protocols. Pathankot Deputy Commissioner Aditya Uppal emphasized the importance of remaining calm and vigilant. In addition to the blackout in major cities, power cuts were enforced in Rupnagar, Fazilka, Kapurthala, Ludhiana, Sangrur, Bathinda, Patiala, and Panchkula in Haryana as precautionary steps to ensure public safety. In light of the heightened security situation, the Punjab government has ordered the closure of all schools and educational institutions for the next three days. Chandigarh authorities have also shut all schools until Saturday. (With input from PTI) Tensions soar in Jammu & Kashmir after Pak's failed drone attack, heavy shelling: Woman killed

Anxious night in Punjab amid India-Pakistan tensions, blackout in several places

Chandigarh: People in several districts of Punjab, including the key border areas of Amritsar, Pathankot and Ferozepur, spent an anxious night as authorities enforced a complete blackout amid heightened tension between India and Pakistan. Blackouts were also enforced in districts such as Jalandhar, Gurdaspur, and Hoshiarpur. Power snapped in Chandigarh The authorities also snapped power 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 .

Punjab orders closure of all schools, colleges for next three days amid rising border tensions

CHANDIGARH: Punjab government has ordered the closure of all educational institutions for the next three days in view of the escalating tensions at India-Pakistan border. In the Union Territory of Chandigarh, which is the common capital of Punjab and Haryana, authorities declared closure of all schools till Saturday. In a post on X, Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains said, In view of the evolving situation, it is hereby ordered that all schools, colleges and universities -- government, private and aided -- across entire Punjab shall remain completely closed for the next three days. In Haryana, all educational institutions in Panchkula will remain closed on Friday and Saturday, officials said. Meanwhile, Panjab University in Chandigarh has postponed exams scheduled for May 9, 10 and 12. The new dates will be announced later, the university said in a statement. Punjab is in alert mode with schools in border districts closed and leaves of all police personnel cancelled, officials said a day after India struck terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. A blackout was enforced in several cities including Pathankot, Mohali, Jalandhar, Amritsar, Hoshiarpur and Chandigarh on Thursday evening. Blackouts in Punjab, Rajasthan on 'red alert' amid Pakistani drone attack; hospitals on alert, shelters set up

Blackout In Chandigarh Till Further Orders After Desperate Pakistan Attacks India

A blackout was also enforced in several districts of Punjab including Pathankot, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, and Mohali

Blackouts in Punjab, Rajasthan on 'red alert' amid Pakistani drone attack; hospitals on alert, shelters set up

CHANDIGARH: A blackout was enforced in several districts including Pathankot, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, Mohali in Punjab and Union Territory of Chandigarh, on Thursday evening, officials said. The move comes amid escalating tension between India and Pakistan. In Pathankot district, some locals claimed they heard an explosion-like sound. However, there was no official confirmation in this regard. Air raid warning sirens have been activated in Pathankot where the blackout was enforced around 8.30 pm. Authorities have appealed to people to keep their lights switched off and stay at home. However, the district authorities said there was no need to panic. The deputy commissioners of six border districts Amritsar, Taran Taran, Gurdaspur, Ferozepur, Fazilka, and Pathankot had earlier ordered a complete ban on the use of fireworks in their respective jurisdictions. Tensions escalated after Indian armed forces early Wednesday carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), including the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba's base in Muridke, in retaliation for the terror attack in Pahalgam . #WATCH | A complete blackout has been enforced in Amritsar in Punjab (Visuals deferred by an unspecified time) pic.twitter.com/go2rsovpTr ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2025 India thwarts Pakistani attack on Jammu and surrounding areas, no casualties reported Rajasthan on red alert The administrations of Rajasthan's border districts have sounded a red alert with a blackout in several cities, in view of the rising tensions along the Line of Control. In Sriganganagar, police have asked the citizens to remain inside their homes and switch off lights. There is a red alert. Everybody stay in their homes and turn off all lights, Sriganganagar Police said on microblogging site X. In a statement, District Collector Dr Manju too appealed people to switch off lights run with inverters and generators. In Barmer, siren sounded for the fifth time in the day -- at the railway station, main market and district collectorate. Sirens sounded in Jaisalmer city as well. People switched off lights as the city echoed with explosion sounds, which were possibly drone attacks by Pakistan in Jaisalmer-Pokhran, according to sources. Bikaner witnessed a complete blackout, which is set to continue until further orders. District Magistrate Namrata Vrishni issued orders for blackout in Bikaner tehsil as well. In Jodhpur too, the blackout is implemented with immediate effect on the instructions of the district collector. All citizens are requested to immediately switch off all types of light sources and ensure complete compliance with the instructions, Jodhpur District Magistrate Gaurav Agarwal said. Amid recent developments, the Phalodi administration has announced several measures to meet any emergency amid the possibilities of a cross-border strike at a local airbase. All hospitals have been directed to ensure uninterrupted power, and ensure ample provisions of water, and fuel. Shops and hotels have been ordered to shut by 10 pm. District Collector Harji Lal Atal has urged the general public to support the government orders. Leaves of all government employees have been cancelled, and they have been called back to duty. According to Atal, orders have been made to reserve around 450 beds across 26 hospitals in the district. Also, provisions have been made to secure sufficient blood stock in the district hospital's blood bank, keep the ICUs ready, ensure ambulance and oxygen cylinder readiness, and cancel all staff leave with instructions to remain stationed at the district headquarters. Hospitals have also been instructed to keep generators ready for power backup, he said. Emergency shelters have been set up in around 25 buildings in Phalodi and Bap, and several buildings on the IGNP premises.

Blackouts in Punjab, Rajasthan on 'red alert' Pakistani drone attack; hospitals on alert, shelters set up

CHANDIGARH: A blackout was enforced in several districts including Pathankot, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, Mohali in Punjab and Union Territory of Chandigarh, on Thursday evening, officials said. The move comes amid escalating tension between India and Pakistan. In Pathankot district, some locals claimed they heard an explosion-like sound. However, there was no official confirmation in this regard. Air raid warning sirens have been activated in Pathankot where the blackout was enforced around 8.30 pm. Authorities have appealed to people to keep their lights switched off and stay at home. However, the district authorities said there was no need to panic. The deputy commissioners of six border districts Amritsar, Taran Taran, Gurdaspur, Ferozepur, Fazilka, and Pathankot had earlier ordered a complete ban on the use of fireworks in their respective jurisdictions. Tensions escalated after Indian armed forces early Wednesday carried out missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), including the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba's base in Muridke, in retaliation for the terror attack in Pahalgam . #WATCH | A complete blackout has been enforced in Amritsar in Punjab (Visuals deferred by an unspecified time) pic.twitter.com/go2rsovpTr ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2025 India hits Lahore after thwarted attack on Jammu Rajasthan on red alert The administrations of Rajasthan's border districts have sounded a red alert with a blackout in several cities, in view of the rising tensions along the Line of Control. In Sriganganagar, police have asked the citizens to remain inside their homes and switch off lights. There is a red alert. Everybody stay in their homes and turn off all lights, Sriganganagar Police said on microblogging site X. In a statement, District Collector Dr Manju too appealed people to switch off lights run with inverters and generators. In Barmer, siren sounded for the fifth time in the day -- at the railway station, main market and district collectorate. Sirens sounded in Jaisalmer city as well. People switched off lights as the city echoed with explosion sounds, which were possibly drone attacks by Pakistan in Jaisalmer-Pokhran, according to sources. Bikaner witnessed a complete blackout, which is set to continue until further orders. District Magistrate Namrata Vrishni issued orders for blackout in Bikaner tehsil as well. In Jodhpur too, the blackout is implemented with immediate effect on the instructions of the district collector. All citizens are requested to immediately switch off all types of light sources and ensure complete compliance with the instructions, Jodhpur District Magistrate Gaurav Agarwal said. Amid recent developments, the Phalodi administration has announced several measures to meet any emergency amid the possibilities of a cross-border strike at a local airbase. All hospitals have been directed to ensure uninterrupted power, and ensure ample provisions of water, and fuel. Shops and hotels have been ordered to shut by 10 pm. District Collector Harji Lal Atal has urged the general public to support the government orders. Leaves of all government employees have been cancelled, and they have been called back to duty. According to Atal, orders have been made to reserve around 450 beds across 26 hospitals in the district. Also, provisions have been made to secure sufficient blood stock in the district hospital's blood bank, keep the ICUs ready, ensure ambulance and oxygen cylinder readiness, and cancel all staff leave with instructions to remain stationed at the district headquarters. Hospitals have also been instructed to keep generators ready for power backup, he said. Emergency shelters have been set up in around 25 buildings in Phalodi and Bap, and several buildings on the IGNP premises.

Explosions, mysterious missile-like objects, blackouts create panic in Punjab

CHANDIGARH: A blackout at 1.30 am and shells of missile-like cylindrical objects being discovered set off panic among people at Jethuwal village in Kathunanagal area on the Amritsar-Batala road in Amritsar on Thursday. Punjab is on high alert amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan after India carried out Operation Sindoor - multiple strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied-Kashmir on the small hours of Wednesday. India launched Operation Sindoor in reply to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 which claimed 26 lives. Sources said that missile-like cylindrical devices were found scattered at different places in the Jethuwal village by the residents. The parts of missile-like object fell at around 1.30 am, said the villagers. However, they added no loss of life or property was reported. The object was found in the fields of one Baldev Singh and Makhan Singh. There was no explosion as such. Nor was there any impact on the ground. The police and the forensic teams are examining it. The army officers have also been informed about the object, a senior police officer said. Meanwhile, sometime around 1.30 am, a series of explosions were heard by residents in Amritsar. Three explosions were heard around 1.30 AM in the holy city creating panic. However, the district administration issued a statement indicating that there is nothing to panic and a blackout has been implemented. A senior police officer said that though the sounds of explosions were heard there was no damages reported anywhere in the city. Against this backdrop, a white colour, geyser-like cylindrical object was recovered from Ghagwal village in Dasuaya of Hoshiarpur district. Wires were found projecting out of the object. This device fell inside the compund of the house of one Ashok Kumar on May 7. The explosion was so loud that even the villagers woke up. The police, upon information, arrived and took the object under their possession. Also a part of a missile shell was spotted at Makhan Windi, which is near Jethuwal village in Amritsar and another object was found at Pandher village. Blackout in Gurdaspur The Deputy Commissioner of Gurdaspur has issued orders stating that from May 8 till further orders there will be blackout in the district from 9 pm till 5 am. Leaves cancelled for Punjab police The Punjab police has cancelled the leaves of all police personnel and officers with immediate effect. Sources said that leaves would be granted only under extraordinary circumstances. The order issued by the DGP's office read: Leaves should be granted only in special circumstances with the approval of the competent authority. Sources said that the police personnel would keep an eye on rumour-mongering, hoarding, besides helping the National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF) in case of eventuality and maintaining liaison with the Border Security Force (BSF) for helping civilians in the border districts and maintain law and order besides assisting the Defence forces. Further, the Mission Director of the National Health Mission, Chandigarh, also cancelled the leaves of all medical officers with immediate effect and directed them to remain available for emergency duty round the clock. All schools in six border districts of Punjab Ferozepur, Pathankot, Fazilka, Amritsar, Gurdaspur and Tarn Taran have also been shut until further orders. India thwarts Pakistans missile strikes, neutralises air defence system in Lahore

Punjab tutor held for abducting student; boy rescued from Darjeeling after over a month

HOSHIARPUR: A 13-year-old boy, who was allegedly abducted by his tutor about over a month ago, has been rescued by the police and the kidnapper arrested, officials said on Sunday. Model Town SHO Sub-Inspector Gursahib Singh said the boy, a native of Himachal Pradesh's Kangra, was currently living with his parents in a rented accommodation in Hoshiarpur. Studying in Class 7, the boy used to take tuition from Bhupinder Singh (51), a resident of Dashmesh Nagar, daily between 3 pm and 7.30 pm. According to the police, Bhupinder Singh somehow convinced the boy's parents to allow him to take the child to Shimla for two days. However, after taking the boy with him on March 12, he blocked all contact numbers of the family and prevented the child from speaking to anyone. The boy's parents searched for him on their own for around 18 days, but when they failed to trace the abductor and their child, they lodged an FIR. The FIR was registered at the Model Town Police Station on April 2 under relevant provisions of the law that deal with the punishment for kidnapping or abducting someone with the intent to secretly confine them. A hunt was launched for Bhupinder, who kept changing his location frequently to evade arrest. Eventually, police located him at a hotel in West Bengal's Darjeeling and arrested him two days ago. The boy was safely rescued. The police said the accused had taken the boy close to the Nepal border and there was a strong possibility that he could have crossed over into Nepal with the child. The rescued boy has been produced before the Child Welfare Committee, while the accused was presented before a court, which remanded him in four-day police custody for further interrogation. The police are investigating the motive behind the kidnapping.

Punjab police bust two BKI terror modules; 13 arrested

CHANDIGARH: Punjab Police on Saturday arrested 13 alleged accused including one minor in two intelligence-led operations and thus busted two ISI-backed Khalistani terror modules that were being run by a proscribed terrorist outfit Babbar Khalsa International (BKI). Police also seized two rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs), two IEDs (2.5 kg each) two hand grenades and two kilogram RDX, five pistols, six magazines, 44 live cartridges, one wireless and three vehicles. Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav said here today, The terror modules, sponsored by the Pak-based ISI, were being controlled by BKI, with two key operational nodesFrance-based Satnam Singh alias Satta and Greece-based Jaswinder Singh alias Mannu Agwan. Their role was earlier also figured in various operations, with accused Satnams role came into notice in 2010 in IED and RDX recovery case. He said that apart from recovering two RPGs including one launcher, police teams have also recovered two Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) each weighing 2.5 kg, two hand grenades with detonator, 2 kg of RDX along with remote control device, five pistols including Beretta and Glock along with six magazines and 44 cartridges and one wireless communication set, besides impounding their three vehicles. Yadav said that with busting of these modules, Punjab Police has foiled the Pak-ISI masterminded conspiracy to disturb peace and harmony in the border state. Sharing operation details of the first module, Assistant Inspector of Police (CI Jalandhar) Navjot Singh Mahal said that in an intel-based operation, police teams have arrested Jagroop Singh of Basti Amritsarian in Hoshiarpur, Jatinder Singh alias Honey of Daburji in Kapurthala and Harpreet Singh of Dharamkot Hoshiarpur and recovered arms and explosives from their possession. He said that preliminary investigations revealed that these accused were working on the instructions of France-based Satnam Satta. Further investigations are being conducted to unearth this entire network and efforts are being made to discover the previous crimes committed by the accused, he added. Sharing operation details of second module, Senior Superintendent of Police (Batala) Suhail Qasim Mir said that in a week-long intelligence led operation, police teams have arrested nine persons including a 17-year-old juvenile. The other eight arrested persons have been identified as Pawanpreet Singh, Balbir Kumar alias Varun, Gomji alias Gotta, Gurpreet Singh alias Gopi, Ajaypal Singh, Rahul alias Bhaia and Johanson, all residents of Batala and Jatinder, a resident of Kapurthala. He said that inquiry is ongoing on various leads and more arrests are expected in coming days. In this regard, two separate FIRs have been registered under the relevant sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Explosives Act at Police Stations SSOC Amritsar and Batala, respectively.

Punjab Farmers protest outside residences of AAP ministers, MLAs

CHANDIGARH/HOSHIARPUR: Punjab farmers on Monday staged protests outside the residences of the AAP MLAs against police crackdown in which protesters were evicted from the Shambhu and Khanauri border points. The call for the protest was given by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha. They were condemning the March 19 Punjab Police action in which it detained several farmers leaders as they were returning after a meeting with a central delegation led by Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan in Chandigarh. The meeting was organised to discuss the farmers' demands, especially the MSP guarantee. As the departing farmers entered Mohali, they were met with heavy barricading and some of their leaders were detained. Police had evicted farmers and had dismantled temporary structures from the Shambhu and Khanauri border points. Vehicular traffic had resumed on the Shambhu-Ambala and Sangrur-Jind highways. Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee state president Satnam Singh Pannu on Monday said the protests were held outside the houses of seven ministers and 21 MLAs in 17 districts. Farmer leaders lashed out at the Bhagwant Mann government, accusing it of evicting their protests at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points in cahoots with the BJP-led Centre. KMM leader Sarwan Singh Pandher said they were also demanding compensation for the theft of tractor-trolleys, and other belongings from the protest sites following the dismantling of temporary structures by police. They wanted action against those who stole their articles from the protest sites. Several farmers, who were part of the Shambhu and Khanauri protests, have claimed that their belongings including trolleys were missing, adding that they might have been stolen. In Jalandhar, a group of farmers entered into a scuffle with Punjab Police officials and tried to force their way through barricades to head towards state minister Mohinder Bhagat. In Moga's Dharamkot, protesting farmers, who were sitting outside the residence of AAP MLA Devinderjit Singh Laddi Dhose, alleged that a security guard of the legislator allegedly drove away their vehicle from the protest site. They also alleged that their microphone was also snatched by the security guard of the Dharamkot MLA. In Hoshiarpur, protesters staged a sit-in outside the residences of state minister Dr. Ravjot Singh, MLA Jasvir Singh Raja and in front of AAP Office at Dasuya, expressing their resentment over the recent police crackdown. The protestors also raised slogans against the Punjab government. Bharatiya Kisan Union (Doaba) State President Manjit Singh Rai alleged that the state government had promised an annual revenue of Rs 20,000 crore from mining, but instead, these funds were being misappropriated. Condemning the police action, he alleged that it was carried out at the behest of the Union government. He also criticized the Punjab government, accusing it of failing to protect the interests of farmers. At Shaheed Bhagat Singh Market in Dasuya, members of the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee (Piddi Group) led by Zone Garna Sahib President Jagdeep Singh Jaggi staged a demonstration outside the AAP office. In Tanda, workers led by Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee District President Paramjit Singh Bhulla protested outside the residence of Urmur MLA Jasvir Singh Raja. The protesters submitted a memorandum listing their demands to the MLA.

Army issues first public statement on assault case involving Colonel Pushpinder Singh Bath

CHANDIGARH: The Army on Tuesday called for a fair and honest investigation into an alleged assault case involving Colonel Pushpinder Singh Bath and his son Angad Singh Bath in a transparent and time-bound manner. Meanwhile, the Punjab Police announced that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the incident reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the dignity of Army officers. Lt Gen Mohit Wadhwa, Chief of Staff, Army Western Command headquarters Chandimandir and Gaurav Yadav, Director General of Police, Punjab, together addressed the press on Tuesday. Lt Gen Wadhwa said, We reiterate the need for a fair and honest investigation in a transparent and very time bound manner to punish the guilty and restore faith in the system. The guilty police personnel should be punished in a timely and exemplary manner so that the incident does not vitiate the atmosphere and effect the long cherished bonhomie between the civil administration and Punjab Police with serving and retired army personnel. I assure that all possible steps are being taken that Col Bath who was assaulted gets due justice. I would like to assure all that the Indian Army remains fully committed to pursuing the case to its logical conclusion, Wadhwa added. He said that the army was informed about the incident in the afternoon of March 15, and since then this issue has been addressed with due alacrity both at the state and at the district levels. 'They were like a pack of wolves': Wife of Army colonel attacked by Punjab cops demands CBI probe He added that the officer was shifted from a civil hospital to a command hospital in Chandimandir, where he underwent treatment, and is presently recuperating from his injuries. The matter was very strongly taken up with the highest echelons of the state administration and the Punjab Police for prompt investigation and delivery of justice, said Wadhwa. Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav said any person who has assaulted the serving Army officer shall be dealt with severely and in accordance with law. Yadav talked about various steps taken by the Punjab Police after the incident. Yadav said, The continuous contact between army authorities and civil administration has helped in the speedy resolution of the matter and ensuring justice to the aggrieved army officer. A high level investigation team headed by Additional DGP SPS Parmar including Sandeep Malik SSP of Hoshiarpur and Manpreet Singh SP Mohali has been constituted for conducting investigations in a fair and transparent manner. The SIT has been directed to conduct investigation on day to day basis for collection of evidences and further legal proceedings in order to ensure that the culprits are proceeded as per law. He added, Any person who has assaulted the serving army officer shall be dealt with severely and in accordance with law, internal investigation shall be completed swiftly so that the culprits are brought to book soon. He also appealed that the present situation should not be used to pit the army against the police. Assault on Army officer: HC raps Punjab Police, asks state govt to explain delay in registering FIR

Punjab Police forms SIT to probe assault on Army officer

CHANDIGARH: The Army on Tuesday called for a fair and honest investigation into an alleged assault case involving Colonel Pushpinder Singh Bath and his son Angad Singh Bath in a transparent and time-bound manner. Meanwhile, the Punjab Police announced that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the incident reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the dignity of Army officers. Lt Gen Mohit Wadhwa, Chief of Staff, Army Western Command headquarters Chandimandir and Gaurav Yadav, Director General of Police, Punjab, together addressed the press on Tuesday. Lt Gen Wadhwa said, We reiterate the need for a fair and honest investigation in a transparent and very time bound manner to punish the guilty and restore faith in the system. The guilty police personnel should be punished in a timely and exemplary manner so that the incident does not vitiate the atmosphere and effect the long cherished bonhomie between the civil administration and Punjab Police with serving and retired army personnel. I assure that all possible steps are being taken that Col Bath who was assaulted gets due justice. I would like to assure all that the Indian Army remains fully committed to pursuing the case to its logical conclusion, Wadhwa added. He said that the army was informed about the incident in the afternoon of March 15, and since then this issue has been addressed with due alacrity both at the state and at the district levels. 'They were like a pack of wolves': Wife of Army colonel attacked by Punjab cops demands CBI probe He added that the officer was shifted from a civil hospital to a command hospital in Chandimandir, where he underwent treatment, and is presently recuperating from his injuries. The matter was very strongly taken up with the highest echelons of the state administration and the Punjab Police for prompt investigation and delivery of justice, said Wadhwa. Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav said any person who has assaulted the serving Army officer shall be dealt with severely and in accordance with law. Yadav talked about various steps taken by the Punjab Police after the incident. Yadav said, The continuous contact between army authorities and civil administration has helped in the speedy resolution of the matter and ensuring justice to the aggrieved army officer. A high level investigation team headed by Additional DGP SPS Parmar including Sandeep Malik SSP of Hoshiarpur and Manpreet Singh SP Mohali has been constituted for conducting investigations in a fair and transparent manner. The SIT has been directed to conduct investigation on day to day basis for collection of evidences and further legal proceedings in order to ensure that the culprits are proceeded as per law. He added, Any person who has assaulted the serving army officer shall be dealt with severely and in accordance with law, internal investigation shall be completed swiftly so that the culprits are brought to book soon. He also appealed that the present situation should not be used to pit the army against the police. Assault on Army officer: HC raps Punjab Police, asks state govt to explain delay in registering FIR

Colonel Pushpinder Singh Baths family lifts protest after assurance of meeting with Punjab CM Mann

CHANDIGARH: The family of Army Colonel Pushpinder Singh Bath has ended their protest following an assurance from the Punjab government that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann will meet them on March 31 to hear their grievances. The family, supported by ex-servicemen, had been protesting outside the Deputy Commissioner's office in Patiala, demanding a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the assault on Col Bath and his son by 12 Punjab Police personnel on March 14. They were also calling for the transfer of Patialas Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Nanak Singh. According to sources, the family and ex-servicemen had been holding the dharna since Saturday. However, on Monday, a series of meetings took place between them and district officials. The family submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner, requesting a personal hearing with Chief Minister Mann. Wife of assaulted Army Colonel leads protest in Patiala, ex-servicemen join in The protest was lifted after Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Patiala visited the dharna site and handed over a letter to Jaswinder Kaur, the wife of Col Bath, confirming that the Chief Minister would meet them on March 31 at noon. An official confirmed, A letter has been given to the family, and they, along with others, can meet CM Mann on March 31. Kaur stated that she, along with her son, husband, and a representative from the union that supported them during the protest, will meet the Chief Minister. If our demands for a CBI inquiry and the transfer of SSP Nanak Singh are not met, we will resume our protest in April, she said, adding, We do not trust the police. She also thanked the Deputy Commissioner and Additional Deputy Commissioner for facilitating the meeting with the government. A large number of ex-servicemen from across Punjab had joined the protest in support of the family. Last week, the Colonels family had met Punjab Governor Banwarilal Purohit, seeking a CBI probe. They had rejected the Punjab governments order for an executive magistrate-led investigation. Following this, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was constituted by the Director, Bureau of Investigation, Punjab, headed by Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) SPS Parmar. The SIT also includes Sandeep Malik, SSP Hoshiarpur, and Manpreet Singh, SP (Rural), SAS Nagar. The team has been directed to conduct the investigation on a day-to-day basis, collect evidence, and proceed with legal action against those responsible. A case has already been registered, naming the police officials involved. Additionally, instructions were issued to the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Patiala Range to immediately transfer the police officials concerned out of Patiala district. After the order, they were reassigned. The Additional Director General of Police (Security), Punjab, was also directed to provide adequate protection to Col Baths family. The assault took place on the night of March 13-14 at a roadside eatery near Government Rajindra Hospital in Patiala. Col Bath is currently posted at Army Headquarters in New Delhi.

Wife of Army Colonel assaulted over parking row leads protest in Patiala , ex-servicemen join in

CHANDIGARH: The wife of the Army Colonel, who has accused 12 Punjab police personnel of assaulting him and son over a parking dispute , staged a sit-in protest outside the Patiala deputy commissioner's office on Saturday. She was joined by several ex-servicemen. The protest came a day after the Punjab Police registered a fresh FIR based on the statement of Colonel Pushpinder Singh Bath. A high-level Special Investigation Team (SIT) has also been set up to expedite investigation. During the protest, the Army Colonel's wife, Jasvinder Kaur Bath, accused the 12 police officials of brutally thrashing her husband and son, and demanded speedy justice. BJP leader and former MP Preneet Kaur, who joined the protest, strongly condemned the incident. As a citizen of India and the wife of an ex-Army officer (former chief minister Amarinder Singh), I stand in complete solidarity with the assaulted officer and family. I demand an impartial probe, so that the guilty get proper punishment, she said. Speaking to reporters in Patiala, Kaur said Army officials should be included in the SIT. Since the Army is involved, the government is involved and the police force is also involved. A joint SIT should be formed with Army and police officials, and a judge involved, she said. The alleged incident took place on the intervening night of March 13 and 14, when Colonel Bath and his son were having food at a roadside eatery near Government Rajindra Hospital in Patiala. The family alleged that some police officers in civil dress asked the Colonel to move his car, as they had to park theirs. When the Colonel objected to their rude tone, the officers thrashed him and his son. The Colonel's arm was broken, and his son suffered a long cut on head. The Colonel's wife had on Thursday met Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, who spoke to the state DGP and advised him to register an FIR on the Colonel's statement. 'They were like a pack of wolves': Wife of Army colonel attacked by Punjab cops demands CBI probe Punjab Police on Friday said it has registered an FIR at Civil Lines police station. Colonel Bath's statement names the police officers who assaulted him and details their roles in the assault, a statement said on Friday evening. An SIT consisting of SPS Parmar, Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order); Sandeep Malik, Senior Superintendent of Police, Hoshiarpur, and Manpreet Singh, Superintendent of Police (Rural), SAS Nagar has been constituted to investigate the incident. A Punjab Police spokesperson said that Patiala Range DIG has been instructed to immediately transfer the police officers concerned. All the 12 officers have been placed under suspension and departmental proceedings initiated against them, he added. The Additional Director General of Police (Security), Punjab, has been directed to provide protection to Colonel Bath's family.

'They were like a pack of wolves': Wife of Army colonel attacked by Punjab cops demands CBI probe

CHANDIGARH: The attack on a serving Army colonel and his son by 12 Punjab Police personnel over a parking dispute in Patiala has snowballed into a major controversy. Even as the Punjab government on Thursday ordered a magisterial probe into the incident, the Army officers family rejected it on Friday, saying they do not trust the state government. Frequently breaking down in tears and speaking in a voice choked with emotion, Jasvinder Kaur Bath, wife of Colonel Pushpinder Singh Bath, demanded that the case be transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for an impartial investigation. She said that the accused policemen meted such inhuman treatment to my husband. We do not even deal with terrorists like this. She demanded the immediate registration of an FIR based on her husbands complaint under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita including attempt to murder, the naming of all 12 accused police officers in the FIR, and the immediate transfer of the accused officers out of Patiala. The FIR should be registered on my husband's complaint, under Sections 109, 118 (2), 118 (1), 115 (2), 126 (2), 308 (4), 311, 351 (2&3) read with 3 (5) of BNS, naming all 12 guilty police officers, she said, while demanding arrest of the accused police officials. She further alleged that the police had not named the 12 officers who have been suspended in the case because it would bring a bad name to the force as they were involved in working out a case and commended the same morning. Like a pack of wolves, they descended upon him, and before he could even defend himself, at least 12 officials, including four inspectors, began ruthlessly thrashing him with batons, fists and kicks, without stopping for a second to consider that they were assaulting a soldier of this very nation. When my son, Angad Singh, tried to shield his father, he too was attacked with relentless blows, Jasvinder alleged. She accused Patiala Senior Superintendent of Police Nanak Singh of failing to take action in the matter. Singh should also be posted out of Patiala for lack of cooperation, as the family requested him multiple times to register the FIR, but he kept giving false hopes, delaying the process of justice and causing untold harassment to the family, she alleged. Jaswinder alleged that she was asked to compromise on the issue and not pursue the case even when she showed the videos of the rutal violence that had been committed and also the videos where four accused police inspectors were seeking forgiveness from me. The family claimed that when the two were standing outside their car and having food, some police officers in civilian clothes approached and asked the Colonel to move his vehicle so they could park theirs. When the Colonel objected to their rude tone, one of the officers punched him, and soon all the police personnel began thrashing him and his son. Army colonel, son thrashed by Punjab Police over parking in Patiala; 12 cops suspended She submitted a representation to the Deputy Commissioner of Patiala, recounting the ordeal her family allegedly faced at the hands of the Punjab Police. She urged the DC, Please help restore my shattered faith in the justice system and ensure that no innocent citizen suffers what we have encountered. She said she had received phone calls from several politicians. But I did not pick up even one politician's phone because it is not a political fight. I am a fauji's wife, my husband fights for the country, it is not my fight alone, it is everybody's fight, she said. Jaswinder further alleged that some of the accused cops threatened her in the police station, saying today they were seeking forgiveness from her, but tomorrow hey will see her and her son who live in Patiala. I saw no remorse in their eyes, she said. The same dhaba owner, who had initially given me CCTV extracts and named the accused officials, was later forced under pressure to change his statement, a clear sign of intimidation and manipulation by the police force, she alleged. She said her repeated visits to police stations in Patiala were met with apathy, arrogance and outright refusal to act. Instead of justice, my family has only received threats, she alleged. The family has planned to hold a protest march in Patiala on March 22 to seek justice in the matter. The incident took place on the intervening night of March 13 and 14, when Colonel Bath and his son were at a roadside eatery near Government Rajindra Hospital in Patiala. Bath is currently posted at Army Headquarters at New Delhi. On Thursday, the Colonels family had met with the Punjab Governor, seeking a CBI probe into the matter. The family also rejected the investigation by an executive magistrate ordered by the Punjab government. If my husband and my son are found guilty, they should be punished as well, she said. SSP Patiala Nanak Singh was not available for comment despite repeated tries. Many senior ex-Army officers and other ex-servicemen have stood in solidarity with the Colonel and his family. During the zero hour on the first day of the state budget session, Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa demanded the immediate transfer of Senior Superintendent of Police of Patiala Nanak Singh for protecting police officers who assaulted a serving colonel. Bajwa sought exemplary punishment for the erring police officers and a judicial probe by a sitting or retired judge into the incident. Citing a similar incident, Bajwa said a Lt Col in Chandigarh in 1992 faced the brutality of a 'hotheaded SSP. The then Punjab governor Surinder Nath launched a joint inquiry under a Brigadier and DIG. They found the SSP guilty and subsequently he was transferred. A case was registered on Friday in Police Station Civil Lines, Patiala, on the statement of Colonel Bath. The statement names the police officials who assaulted him and also gives the roles attributed to each person in the assault. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by Additional DGP (Law and Order) SPS Parmar including Sandeep Malik Senior Superintendent of Police, Hoshiarpur and Manpreet Singh, Superintendent of Police, Rural, SAS Nagar has been constituted by the Director, Bureau of Investigation, Punjab. The SIT has been directed to conduct the investigation on day-to-day basis for collection of evidence and further legal proceedings, in order to ensure that the culprits are proceeded against as per law. Also, instructions have been issued to DIG Patiala Range to immediately transfer the concerned police officials out of Patiala district. Meanwhile, Additional Director General of Police, Security, Punjab has been directed to provide adequate protection to the family of Colonel Bath. Bajwa said if the Punjab government failed to do justice to Colonel Bath, the Union government should take cognizance of the matter. The way SSP Nanak Singh handled the entire episode of police cruelty, it can be concluded that he has been shielding his men in uniform. He even failed to mention the names of the accused police personnel in the FIR. He has had a biased approach since day one. Therefore Singh must be transferred from Patiala, Bajwa said while speaking in the assembly.

SGPC rejects resignation of its president Dhami, appeals to reconsider his decision

CHANDIGARH: The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the apex body overseeing Sikh gurdwaras in India and overseas has rejected the resignation of its president Harjinder Singh Dhami. It has also appealed to reconsider his decision and return to duties. The decision was unanimously taken in an Executive Committee meeting headed by Senior Vice President Raghujit Singh Virk. After the meeting, Virk said that following the rejection of Dhamis resignation, all executive committee members shall visit his residence in Hoshiarpur and request him to return to duties. Earlier, a five-member delegation of executive members of SGCP met Dhami and urged him to withdraw his resignation. On February 17, four-time SGPC president Dhami offered to step down days after Giani Harpreet Singh was removed as Jathedar of Takht Damdama Sahib on 'moral grounds' following a statement on social media by the then Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh. The SGPC had also sacked Raghbir Singh and Sultan Singh, the Jathedar of Keshgarh Sahib. Virk also shared other decisions taken, including the approval of forming a committee of academic scholars to review the Centre Governments New Education Policy. It comes in light of the message delivered by the Jathedar of Akal Takht Sahib and Takht Kesgarh Sahib, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gadgaj on the occasion of Hola Mohalla. He mentioned that the committee will evaluate reforms that are necessary in the Centres New Education Policy based on Punjabs context, and take necessary actions accordingly. The committee will also deliberate on current challenges faced by the Punjabi Gurmukhi language and make recommendations to the Centre. He further mentioned that as per the Jathedars orders, the SGPC will initiate a vigorous religious campaign that will reach every household. This campaign will commence on April 13, on the occasion of Vaisakhi. On its launch, large Amrit Sanchar (initiation) ceremonies will be held at Takhts, where thousands of Sikhs will be initiated into the Sikh faith. He also stated that at Takht Kesgarh Sahib, the Amrit Sanchar will be performed using the historical Khanda of Guru Gobind Singh. He also added that this year, the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib and the 350th Guruship centenary of the tenth master, Guru Gobind Singh is being commemorated according to Panthic traditions. Sikh community unites against SGPC's appointment of new Jathedars

BSP under 'iron lady' values action over words, says Mayawati on Kashi Ram's birth anniversary

LUCKNOW: Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati on Saturday said the vast population of Uttar Pradesh has seen how the party under the leadership of iron lady values action over words. Paying tributes to Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) founder late Kanshi Ram on his 91st birth anniversary, Mayawati said, Today, on the birth anniversary of the founder of BSP Kanshi Ram Ji, the party across the country paid homage to him and resolved to strengthen his movement for social change and economic liberation. To liberate the 'Bahujan Samaj' from the troubled life of immense poverty, unemployment, exploitation, oppression, backwardness, casteism, communal violence and tension, it is necessary to understand the power of your precious vote and obtain the master key to power. This is the message of today, she added. Referring to herself as iron lady, the BSP supremo said, The vast population of Uttar Pradesh has seen how the BSP under the leadership of 'iron lady' believes more in action than in words. It ensured the all-around development of the Bahujans when in power, while most claims made by the other parties proved baseless and deceptive. Born in Punjab's Rupnagar on March 15, 1934, Kanshi Ram worked for the upliftment and political mobilisation of people belonging to backward classes. He founded the All India Backwards and Minorities Communities Employees Federation (BAMCEF) in 1971, the Dalit Shoshit Samaj Sangharsh Samiti in 1981, before forming the BSP in 1984. Kanshi Ram was elected to the Lok Sabha from Etawah in Uttar Pradesh in 1991 and from Hoshiarpur in Punjab in 1996. He also served as a Rajya Sabha member from 1998 to 2004. The BSP stalwart passed away on October 9, 2006, in Delhi at the age of 71.

AAP MP Sahney calls for crop diversification, agri processing for Punjab's development

CHANDIGARH: Dr Vikramjit Singh Sahney, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha from Punjab, who unveiled the report titled Punjab Vision - A Blueprint for Progress, discussed the importance of crop diversification, agri-processing, industrial infrastructure, and skill training for the development of Punjab. The report, a part of the Punjab Vision 2047 held in November last year, details various recommendations in the agriculture sector for crop diversification, including millets in the mid-day meal and providing millets in the 5 Kg Ration Scheme. Punjab should create and promote AI technology for sustainable crop diversification and should set up AI-driven chatbox to assist farmers, Sahney said. On agri-processing, Sahney said that there is an urgent need to set up food processing parks, preferably through multipurpose cooperative societies in a cluster of villages with storage and processing facilities, oil extraction, flour mills, processing and packing of spices, pulses, honey, mushrooms etc. He also emphasised the need for organic farming with institutions like MARKFED and Punjab Agro to provide market linkages. Sahney also proposed setting up of crop specific clusters like pulses, oil seeds, and cotton in Malva, Sugarcane in Doaba, Maize in Hoshiarpur, dairy development in Kapurthala, Floriculture in Ludhiana, Litchi in Pathankot and Chillies in Ferozpur . Regarding trade and industry, Sahney reiterated that Punjab should develop strong industrial zones and revamp key areas in Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Mohali, and Amritsar. He mentioned that the Rajpura Industrial Zone should commence operations within this year. Additionally, he highlighted that further strengthening of STPIs to establish IT hubs and BPOs could be a game changer for Punjab, as skilled IT talent from the state is currently migrating to Bangalore and Hyderabad. Sahney highlighted that skill training for the youth of Punjab is crucial to safeguard lives and livelihoods. He provided details about five world-class skill centers being established by him, along with the 10 ITIs he has adopted. He expressed deep concern over the depleting water level and the presence of Arsenic and other harmful substances in the water. He expressed concern over the declining water levels and the presence of arsenic and other harmful substances in the water. To address these issues, he suggested adopting Direct Seeded Rice along with a micro-irrigation system. He further demanded that Punjab should receive immediate funds under the Atal Bhujal Yojana for water conservation, noting that the state meets all the criteria of the scheme. While appreciating the State governments war on drugs, Sahney said that skill training for drug rehabs is very critical to bring back youth into mainstream. He also advocated the need for investing in solar energy to optimize subsidy allocation for free power.

Two Indian youths taking 'Dunki' route to US held captive in Guatemala

CHANDIGARH: Two youths, one from Haryana and the other from Punjab, who took the ' Dunki' route to the US have allegedly been kidnapped and kept as hostages in Guatemala. The kidnappers have demanded USD 20,000 as ransom. The families have requested the union government to step in and get their children back. Meanwhile, the Haryana Police has registered a case in this regard against the local travel agents. Kuldeep Singh, father of the kidnapped youth Yuvraj Singh of Mohna village in Kaithal district of Haryana, along with villagers and locals approached the Superintendent of Police of Kaithal Rajesh Kalia yesterday requesting immediate action for their safe return. Singh said that the kidnappers had sent a distressing video of his son being tortured at gunpoint. He added that they demanded USD 20,000 for his release. Singh said that his son left for the US in October last year and the travel agent told him that he would send his son via the legal route. I gave the passport of my son to these three agents including one from Kurushetra, and the deal was done for Rs 41 lakh and he paid Rs 2 lakh in advance. They then said that the rest of the money they will take once he reached US. But while he was on the way, he took another Rs 14 lakh from me, he said. Over 3,200 FIRs filed against travel agents in Punjab in last three years Singh said, Then they took another Rs 8 lakh from me. These agents are hand in glove with the kidnappers. At times they say the kidnappers are demanding USD 20,000 then they say they demand 40,000 dollars. Singh added that he met the Kaithal SP and demanded that the chidern should be brought back home safely and action should be taken against these travel agents. It has been three months since the family has spoken to my son. We have not spoken to him since December. The other youth is from Dasuaya in Hoshiarpur of Punjab, Singh alleged that the agents involved in the illegal migration process have since gone missing. Another local Davinder Singh Cheema said that the family got the video of kidnapping in December, and after that it contacted the local travel agents who had sent these youth. He said the family asked for more time as the local panchayats also approached them, but till date nothing happened and these travel agents did not get back. These agents are now absconding first they were in touch with the family. Superintendent of Police of Kaithal Rajesh Kalia told TNIE that the family, along with villagers, contacted him yesterday and the police has registered a First Information Report (FIR) against the local travel agents and will be taking action against those responsible besides also writing to the concerned authorities. 42 Indian youths, who took 'dunky route' to US, have been missing for 15 years

Two Indian youths going to US via Dunki route held captive in Gautemala

CHANDIGARH: Two youths, one from Haryana and the other from Punjab, who were going to the United States (US) via the Dunki route have allegedly been kidnapped and kept as hostages in Guatemala. The kidnappers have demanded USD 20,000 as ransom. The families have requested the union government to step in and get their children back. The Haryana Police has registered a case in this regard against the local travel agents. Kuldeep Singh father of kidnapped youth Yuvraj Singh of Mohna village in Kaithal district of Haryana yesterday along with villagers and locals approached the Superintendent of Police of Kaithal Rajesh Kalia requesting immediate action for their safe return. Singh said that that the kidnappers had sent a distressing video of his son being tortured at gunpoint. He claimed that they demanded USD 20,000 for his release. Singh said that his son left for US in October last year and the travel agent told him that he would send his son via the legal route. I gave the passport of my son to these three agents including one from Kurushetra, and the deal was done for Rs 41 lakh and he paid Rs 2 lakh in advance. They then said that the rest of the money they will take once he reached US. But while he was on the way, he took another Rs 14 lakh from me, he said. Over 3,200 FIRs filed against travel agents in Punjab in last three years Singh said, Then they took another Rs 8 lakh from me. These agents are hand in glove with the kidnappers. At times they say the kidnappers are demanding USD 20,000 then they say they demand 40,000 dollars. Singh added that he met the Kaithal SP and demanded that the chidern should be brought back home safely and action should be taken against these travel agents. It has been three months that the family has not spoken to my son since December. The other youth is from Dasuaya in Hoshiarpur of Punjab, Singh alleged that the agents involved in the illegal migration process have since gone missing. Another local Davinder Singh Cheema said that the family got the video of kidnapping in December, and after that it contacted the local travel agents who had sent these youth. He said the family asked for more time as the local panchayats also approached them, but till date nothing happened and these travel agents did not get back. These agents are now absconding first they were in touch with the family. Superintendent of Police of Kaithal Rajesh Kalia told TNIE that the family, along with villagers, contacted him yesterday and the police has registered a First Information Report (FIR) against the local travel agents and will be taking action against those responsible besides also writing to the concerned authorities. 42 Indian youths, who took 'dunky route' to US, have been missing for 15 years

BJP, SAD slam Kejriwals 'massive convoy' for Vipassana retreat

CHANDIGARH: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has arrived at Anandgarh village in Hoshiarpur for a 10-day Vipassana meditation retreat, triggering political controversy as the BJP and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) criticised the Punjab government over security arrangements. Kejriwal and his wife Sunita drove to the Chohal forest rest house on the outskirts of Hoshiarpur on Tuesday, where they were received by Hoshiarpur MLA Brahm Shankar Jimpa. After discussions with AAP leaders, Kejriwal proceeded to the Dhamma Dhaja Vipassana centre on Wednesday evening. The meditation course will begin on Thursday and continue until March 15. It remains unclear if his wife will also participate. Elaborate security arrangements have been put in place for Kejriwals visit. However, opposition leaders have lashed out at the Punjab government, accusing it of prioritising Kejriwals comfort over farmers concerns. Punjab BJP spokesperson Pritpal Singh Baliawal said, Kejriwal claims to be on a meditation retreat, but with 50 police vehicles and bureaucratic support, it seems more about indulging in luxuries at Punjabs expense after being rejected by Delhi voters. Senior SAD leader Dr Daljit Singh Cheema questioned why Kejriwal was being given a state-level welcome despite having no constitutional authority in Punjab. He also accused the Punjab government of failing to fulfil promises made to farmers, including assured minimum support prices for Moong and Maize and compensation for crop losses. Kejriwals visit comes at a time when AAP is facing political and legal challenges, including setbacks in the Delhi Assembly elections, where the party secured only 22 out of 70 seats, and an ongoing money laundering case linked to the excise policy. This marks Kejriwals second Vipassana retreat at Anandgarh, having previously attended a course at the same centre from December 21 to December 30, 2023. Known to be a regular practitioner, he has attended similar meditation retreats in Jaipur, Nagpur, Dharamkot near Dharamshala, and Bengaluru in the past. Vipassana, an ancient meditation technique rooted in the teachings of Gautam Buddha, is taught through a 10-day residential course where participants must observe complete silence and avoid all forms of communication except with instructors regarding meditation practice.

'Like a VIP Maharaja': BJP, Congress target Kejriwal over 'lavish convoy' in Punjab

Arvind Kejriwal faced criticism from BJP and Congress for using a VIP convoy without holding a constitutional post, while visiting Punjab for a Vipassana session. Accusations centered on the use of taxpayer money for his security entourage. The AAP leader, accompanied by his wife, arrived in Hoshiarpur for a 10-day meditation course.

No place for gangsters and criminals in Punjab: CM Mann

Hoshiarpur, Mar 2: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Sunday asserted that gangsters, smugglers, criminals and other anti-social elements have no place in the state and will soon be wiped out. Addressing a gathering here during the passing out parade of 2,490 cops, Mann said this pious land produced saints, seers, martyrs, legendary players and [] The post No place for gangsters and criminals in Punjab: CM Mann appeared first on Northlines .

No place for gangsters and criminals in Punjab, they will be wiped out: CM Mann

Hoshiarpur, Mar 2: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Sunday asserted that gangsters, smugglers, criminals and other anti-social elements have no place in the state and will soon be wiped out. Click Here To Join Daily Excelsior on WhatsApp And Get Latest News Addressing a gathering here during the passing out parade of 2,490 cops, Mann said this pious land produced saints, seers, martyrs, legendary players and generals. The chief minister, however, said that smugglers, gangsters and other criminals have [] The post No place for gangsters and criminals in Punjab, they will be wiped out: CM Mann appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Over 3,200 FIRs filed against travel agents in Punjab in last three years

CHANDIGARH: In recent years, an increasing number of young individuals from Punjab have fallen prey to unscrupulous travel agents exploiting their desire to migrate abroad. Whether through the so-called Dunky Route, student visas, or fraudulent marriages, these agents have capitalised on the desperation of youth. Over the past three years, Punjab has seen the registration of 3,225 First Information Reports (FIRs) against travel agents. Of these, more than 1,100 cases have been filed under the Punjab Prevention of Human Smuggling Act, 2012. A closer look at the data reveals that the highest number of cases was registered by the SAS Nagar Police (398), followed by the Jalandhar Police Commissionerate (375), Hoshiarpur Police (293), and Patiala Police (235). Other notable police stations include the Ludhiana Police Commissionerate (228), the NRI Wing of the Punjab Police (190), Amritsar Police Commissionerate (188), Jalandhar (Rural) Police (141), and SBS Nagar Police (127). An analysis of these cases further highlights that 1,117 were registered under the Punjab Prevention of Human Smuggling Act, 2012, 783 under the Emigration Act, and 1,325 under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The Jalandhar Police Commissionerate recorded the highest number of cases under the Human Smuggling Act (294), followed by Amritsar Police Commissionerate (141) and Hoshiarpur Police (110). Under the Emigration Act, the SAS Nagar Police registered 287 cases, followed by Ludhiana Police Commissionerate (161) and the NRI Wing (75). Under IPC sections, Patiala Police topped the list with 198 cases, followed by the NRI Wing (115) and Hoshiarpur Police (111). Dilemma of desperate deportees Talking to this newspaper, Additional DGP (NRI Wing) Parveen Sinha said, Punjab is the only state in the country where the Punjab Prevention of Human Smuggling Act, 2012, is enforced. We take stringent action against travel agents upon receiving complaints. In the past three years, over 3,000 cases have been registered across the state. Speaking on the issue, Capt. SP Singh, Chairman of the Association of Licensed Immigration and Education Consultants (ALIEC), said, As per the Act, travel agents are required to display their license number prominently outside their offices and in advertisements. However, illegal agents are predominantly active on social media platforms, making it difficult to trace their backgrounds. This makes it easier for them to deceive vulnerable individuals. We urge that advertisements on social media be regulated under this Act and be subject to scrutiny. From snakes, crocodiles to trimming beard, US deportee from Punjab recalls perilous 'donkey route' The situation calls for an understanding of these agents' modus operandi. The Act must be amended to keep pace with evolving tactics. Currently, there are approximately 5,000 to 7,000 registered agents, but the number of illegal agents remains uncertain, Singh added. Jatinder Benipal, President of ALIEC, said that the majority of deported individuals linked to illegal migration were victims of unregistered agents. These agents evade the regulatory oversight set by the Punjab Travel Professionals Regulation Rules, 2013. Illegal migration is primarily facilitated by unregistered agents, not by licensed professionals who comply with the legal framework, Benipal said. Sources revealed that three flights landing in Amritsar on February 5, 15, and 16 were carrying a significant number of deportees from Punjab. A total of 333 illegal immigrants were deported, of whom 126 (37.8%) were from Punjab. Other deportees included 110 from Haryana (33%), 74 from Gujarat (22.2%), and smaller numbers from Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, Goa, Chandigarh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Uttarakhand. Among the deportees, 262 were men, 42 were women, and 29 were children (18 boys and 11 girls) returning from the United States with their families. Why Amritsar chosen? Political slugfest erupts over US planes carrying Indian deportees

Deportees who sold land and took loans for US via 'Dunky Route' face uncertain future and debt repayment

CHANDIGARH: The second flight from the US, carrying 117 deported Indians, landed at Amritsar International Airport late Sunday night. Of the deportees, 65 were from Punjab, who had traveled to the US via the 'Dunky Route' in search of better opportunities, spent fortunes ranging from Rs 40 to Rs 55 lakh. Now, many of these youths face a bleak and uncertain future. In addition, they must repay massive loans, as their families sold land and mortgaged properties to finance their journey to the 'dream land. Daljit Singh, 42, from Kurala Kalan village in Hoshiarpur, took two years to reach the United States, only to be deported. He paid a travel agent Rs 45 lakh to travel via the 'Dunky Route.' Kamalpreet Kaur, Daljits wife, claims the agent assured them that her husband would be sent directly to the U.S. When the agent demanded more money and we couldn't pay, he took the general power of attorney for our five acres of land, the family alleged. Over a month ago, the agent informed the family that Daljit had reached the U.S. but was unable to connect with them. Daljit's family has now demanded that the government ensure the return of their land and take action against the agent. A couple from Jaula Kurdh village, SAS Nagar (Mohali), paid Rs 80 lakh to the agent to take the 'Dunky Route,' but they, too, were deported. Both are now suffering from depression. The husbands father, a police officer, said, The agents told us they would send them legally, but they deceived us. Eight months ago, we spoke to the agent, and he promised they would be sent to the U.S. within a week. The last contact we had was on February 5, and they said they had crossed into the U.S. after passing through several countries. Mangal Singh Thind, from Nawan Kot village near Jandiala Guru in Amritsar, sold his commercial vehicles, including two trucks, and borrowed money from relatives to pay Rs 55 lakh to the agent. It took my grandson, Jasnoor Singh, 19, nine months to reach the U.S. He was stuck in Colombia for six months before being dropped off in Guhana by air, he said. Jaswinder, cousin of Saurabh from Chandiwala village in Ferozepur, said his cousin spent Rs 40 lakh on an agent to enter the U.S., only for his dreams to be shattered. My sisters son, Harjot Singh, and his cousin, Harjit Singh, from Khanowal village (Gurdaspur), arranged Rs 45 lakh each for the agent. Both have been deported after selling their agricultural land and taking loans, said Nishan Singh from Ajnala. The family of 20-year-old Jashanpreet Singh from Pandori Rajputan village in Kapurthala sent their son to Spain in June last year, where he got in touch with an agent who sent him to the U.S. His mother, Kuldeep Kaur, said, He went to the U.S. about a month ago but was apprehended by U.S. Border Patrol and taken to a camp. We sent around Rs 45 lakh to get him abroad. Gurmeet Singh of Talania village is among the 117 deported to India late last night. He had left for the U.S. on November 12 last year. His father, Chunni Lal, said the travel agent took Rs 40 lakh, and to pay him, they mortgaged jewelry and their house to private money lenders and borrowed money from relatives. Lal added, We left him in New Delhi and dont know how the agent got him to the U.S. before he was arrested by U.S. authorities. Its a similar story for 22-year-old Sahilpreet Singh from Taraf Behhal Bahadur village in Kapurthala, whose family paid Rs 40 lakh to the agent. He left just a month ago but was deported back. Sahils grandfather said, We sold a plot, pledged our land, and borrowed money from relatives to send him. Now we fear we may lose our house too. We wouldnt have sent him abroad if he had found a job here. We request the government to provide him with a job. Another youth, Pardeep Bassi from New Market in Goraya near Phagwara, was deported after paying Rs 45 lakh to an agent to go to the U.S. He was apprehended at the U.S.-Mexico border shortly after leaving. Pardeep had been living with his widowed mother, Surinder Kaur, while his brother was settled in Canada. Saurabh from Chandiwala village in Ferozepur sold two acres of land and paid Rs 45 lakh to go to the U.S. He entered the border on January 27 but was arrested and sent to a camp for 18 days before being deported. Mantaj Singh from Hoshiarpur shares a similar tale of deception and loss.

Hands cuffed, legs chained, deportee from US recounts journey back to Amritsar

Hoshiarpur: Daljit Singh left his native village in Punjab for the US last year in a desperate bid to provide a better future for his family. On Saturday night, he landed in Amritsar in a US military aircraft, his hands cuffed and legs chained. A native of Kurala Kalan village in Punjabs Hoshiarpur district, Daljit 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 .

US deportees on second flight back home handcuffed, chained; Sikh youth boarded without turban

CHANDIGARH: 117 Indians deported from the United States (US) landed at the Amritsar International Airport at 11.40 pm on Saturday . Deportees alleged that the men had their hands cuffed and legs chained while the women and minor children aboard the second US Air Force plane, C-17 Globemaster III were let free. Additionally, Sikh youth were deported without turbans. Of the 117 deportees, 65 are from Punjab, 33 are from Haryana, eight from Gujarat, three from Uttar Pradesh, two each from Goa, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan, and one each from Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir. The deported illegal immigrants included four women and two minors, including a six-year-old girl and a 10-year-old boy, and 112 men. Most of the deportees are in the age group of 18 to 30 years. Sources added that this time the difference was that the women were not handcuffed and chained, unlike the last time when women were also in shackles. Sources said that after security clearance, immigration, and background checks, the deportees were given food. The illegal immigrants who hailed from Punjab were then taken to their homes by Punjab Police at around 4:30 am on Sunday. The Haryana government also made transportation arrangements for the deportees from the state by sending police buses. As a few families had come to the airport to receive their children, they were not handed over to their kin and were told to go back. While those from Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Goa were sent early this morning on flights from Amritsar, coordinated by the Union government, said an officer. Daljit Singh of Kurala Kalan village in Hoshiarpur, who was among the deportees, claimed that they were handcuffed with their legs chained during the journey. Our legs were chained and hands were also cuffed, he said. Singh said he was taken through the 'dunki route'. Saurabh of Chandiwala village in Ferozepur said, We were handcuffed and chained, put in the plane and sent back. They treated us very badly and humiliated us. Two cousin brothers from Gurdaspur district, who were deported back, said that they were threatened by the US army personnel while being deported and tortured. We crossed the US border on January 27, and the authorities put us in the camp for 18 days and never listened to us. Then we were put on the plane, handcuffed, and sent back, never allowed even to speak, said one of them. The C-17 aircraft that landed around 11:35 pm on Saturday was the second batch of Indians to be deported by the Donald Trump administration as part of its crackdown on illegal immigrants. If agriculture was profitable, Indians wouldn't move abroad: Dallewal on US deportation Another controversy has arisen: the Sikh youth were deported and were not allowed to tie their turbans, returning with open hair. Senior Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia said, Bhagwant Mann and his ministers are playing to the gallery on the deportation of youth from the USA, but shockingly and shamelessly, they are silent on bringing Sikh youth bare-headed without turbans. Not a single word on this major issue. Why Bhagwant Mann? Is it because you don't use the word Singh in your name? Shame on you for such dirty politics. I strongly condemn this action of US authorities for bringing Sikh youth without turbans. I also urge the Ministry of External Affairs to immediately take up the matter with US authorities so that such an incident is never repeated in the future, he added. Shiromani Gurdwara Parbhandak Committee (SGPC) Member Gurcharan Singh also raised this issue and condemned the kind of treatment meted out to the Sikh youth. He said that the SGPC would write to the US authorities in this regard. We gave the turbans to the youth once they landed at the airport after we came to know about this, he said. Why Amritsar chosen? Political slugfest erupts over US planes carrying Indian deportees

Two deportees who arrived in second US plane arrested in murder case

CHANDIGARH: 117 Indians deported from the United States arrived on a US Air Force plane, C-17 Globemaster III late Saturday night at Amritsar International Airport. The men had their hands cuffed and legs chained, women and the two children were not. Additionally, Sikh youth were returned without turbans. Meanwhile, Punjab Police arrested two deportees in connection with a murder case. The US Air Force plane, C-17 Globemaster, with 117 Indian deportees, landed at Amritsar International Airport at 11:40 pm. Of these, 65 are from Punjab, 33 are from Haryana, eight from Gujarat, three from Uttar Pradesh, two each from Goa, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan, and one each from Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir. The deported illegal immigrants included four women and two minors, including a six-year-old girl and a 10-year-old boy, and 112 men. Most of the deportees are in the age group of 18 to 30 years. Sources added that this time the difference was that the women were not handcuffed and chained, unlike the last time when women were also in shackles. Sources said that after security clearance, immigration, and background checks, the deportees were given food. The illegal immigrants who hailed from Punjab were then taken to their homes by Punjab Police at around 4:30 am on Sunday. The Haryana government also made transportation arrangements for the deportees from the state by sending police buses. As a few families had come to the airport to receive their children, they were not handed over to their kin and were told to go back. While those from Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Goa were sent early this morning on flights from Amritsar, coordinated by the Union government, said an officer. Daljit Singh of Kurala Kalan village in Hoshiarpur, who was among the deportees, claimed that they were handcuffed with their legs chained during the journey. Our legs were chained and hands were also cuffed, he said. Singh said he was taken through the 'dunki route'. Saurabh of Chandiwala village in Ferozepur said, We were handcuffed and chained, put in the plane and sent back. They treated us very badly and humiliated us. Two cousin brothers from Gurdaspur district, who were deported back, said that they were threatened by the US army personnel while being deported and tortured. We crossed the US border on January 27, and the authorities put us in the camp for 18 days and never listened to us. Then we were put on the plane, handcuffed, and sent back, never allowed even to speak, said one of them. The C-17 aircraft that landed around 11:35 pm on Saturday was the second batch of Indians to be deported by the Donald Trump administration as part of its crackdown on illegal immigrants. The two deportees, Sandeep Singh and Pradeep Singh, are cousin brothers and were wanted in a murder case filed in 2023 in Rajpura, Patiala. A team of Patiala Police arrested them at Sri Guru Ramdas International Airport in Amritsar. Sources said that both the accused hailed from Rajpura and had already been declared proclaimed offenders in the murder case. Both the accused were booked under sections 302, 307, 323, 506, 148, and 149 of the Indian Penal Code by Patiala Police in a murder case registered on June 26, 2023. However, police officials said they hadn't issued a 'Look Out Circular' against the two. The family members said that they spent Rs 1.20 crore to send them to the US. Confirming their arrest, Senior Superintendent of Police of Patiala Nanak Singh said that they were arrested from the Amritsar airport. Another controversy has arisen: the Sikh youth were deported and were not allowed to tie their turbans, returning with open hair. Senior Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia said, Bhagwant Mann and his ministers are playing to the gallery on the deportation of youth from the USA, but shockingly and shamelessly, they are silent on bringing Sikh youth bare-headed without turbans. Not a single word on this major issue. Why Bhagwant Mann? Is it because you don't use the word Singh in your name? Shame on you for such dirty politics. I strongly condemn this action of US authorities for bringing Sikh youth without turbans. I also urge the Ministry of External Affairs to immediately take up the matter with US authorities so that such an incident is never repeated in the future. Shiromani Gurdwara Parbhandak Committee (SGPC) Member Gurcharan Singh also raised this issue and condemned the kind of treatment meted out to the Sikh youth. He said that the SGPC would write to the US authorities in this regard. We gave the turbans to the youth once they landed at the airport after we came to know about this, he said. US deportation: Punjab police arrests travel agent in case related to illegal migration

'Legs Chained, Hands Cuffed': Recalls Deported Punjab Resident, Who Took Donkey Route To US

Daljit Singh, a native of Kurala Kalan village in Punjab's Hoshiarpur district, is among 116 illegal Indian immigrants deported from the US. They returned to Amritsar on Saturday night.

We Were Handcuffed, Claims Deportee Who Arrived In Second Batch From US

CHANDIGARH, Feb 16: Daljit Singh, who was among the deportees who reached Amritsar from the US on Saturday night, on Sunday claimed they were handcuffed with their legs chained during the journey. Our legs were chained and hands were also cuffed, Singh told reporters in Hoshiarpur. Singh, a native of Kurala Kalan village in Punjabs Hoshiarpur district, was among 116 illegal Indian immigrants who were brought back in a US aircraft that landed at the Amritsar airport on Saturday night. The post We Were Handcuffed, Claims Deportee Who Arrived In Second Batch From US appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Dunki route & treacherous trek through Panama tough terrain

CHANDIGARH: The Dunki Route has existed for sometime but gained significant attention after several Indians who used it to arrive in the US were deported. Originating in Punjab, Dunki means to hop from place to place. The Dunki route starts from South American continent primarily in Brazil. From Brazil, the illegal immigrants enter Peru or Ecuador before travelling to Columbia. They then navigate the dangerous panama jungle which takes about a week to cross. While in the jungle they may encounter skeletons or dead bodies and pass through cross Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Guatemala and finally enter Mexico. From there they cross into the United States. The entire journey is facilitated by agents who trap innocent and desperate people, especially the youth, who dream of making it big in the US. Recounting the horror, one of the victims Harwinder Singh of Tahli village in Hoshiarpur district said that he was first made to catch a flight to Qatar and then to Brazil. Contrary to the plan of being flown to Peru, he was taken to Panama by road and forced to take the donkey route. In almost all the cases, the immigrants would have either sold their land or took loans to pay fees ranging from Rs 30 lakh to Rs 1 crore to travel agents. The trauma doesnt end here as these agents extract much more money than promised. Another victim, Daler Singh of Salempura village in Amritsar said that he too was forced to endure the torture. An illusive dream A recent Bollywood film Dunki had depicted the details of Dunki routes, reason why people embark on it and what they encounter in foreign countries. The promise of higher incomes, opportunities and improved living standards, encapsulated in the American Dream, fuels the desire to migrate.

Handcuffed & chained in the sky for 40 hours

CHANDIGARH: A video released by the American authorities on Thursday confirmed what the 104 deportees said upon landing in Amritsar the day beforethat during the 40-hour flight, the US officials cuffed their hands and feet and were not allowed to move from their seats. They were only grudgingly allowed to use the washroom but with the shackles on. They had to drag themselves to and fro. The handcuffs remained while they ate food, too. The video the United States Customs and Border Protection (USBP) released went viral on Thursday and showed the deportees handcuffed and chained at the ankles. USBP Chief Michael W Banks shared the video on X and wrote that USBP and partners successfully returned illegal aliens to India, adding, If you cross illegally, you will be removed. One of the 104 deportees, 30-year-old Lovepreet Kaur of Bholath in Kapurthala, underwent a horrible experience of going to the US and returning immediately after spending a whopping Rs 1 crore. Back in Amritsar, she said she reportedly paid Rs 1 crore to reach the US with her 10-year-old son had landed there on. They left India on January 2, reaching the US on January 27. They first flew to Medellin in Colombia and stayed there for two weeks. Their next stop was San Salvador, from where they walked and crossed into Guatemala and took a taxi to Mexico. Two days later, they crossed the border but got caught. We were kept in a camp for five days and then chained from the waist, our feet and hands cuffed. Only the children were spared. She was in a group comprising seven families and some single men and women. No one told us where we were being taken. We were told we had returned to India when we arrived in Amritsar. Our dreams shattered in that instant. Deportee Harwinder Singh of Tahli village in Hoshiarpur said the journey was more mentally traumatic than physically exhausting. The crew and officials forced us to eat with handcuffs. They ignored our repeated requests to remove the handcuffs. It is the trauma that possibly led to another deportee, 27-year-old Davinderjit Singh of Jalandhar, going missing. He returned home from Amritsar Wednesday night. On Thursday morning, he took his bike and left home. The family has been unable to locate him since then. Another case of a wasted journey is Jaspal Singhs. He is from Hardorawal village in Gurdaspur. His agent told him he would reach the US by air. He reached Brazil last July. But the final leg never materialised. After six months, he managed to cross over to the US, only to be caught by US Border Patrol. He was in custody for 11 days before being sent home.

Legs and hands tied on flight to India from US, say deportees

CHANDIGARH: Jaspal Singh, who was among 104 deportees brought in a US aircraft on Wednesday, claimed that their hands and legs were cuffed throughout the journey and they were unshackled only after landing at the Amritsar airport. Singh, 36, who hails from Hardorwal village in Gurdaspur district, said he was captured by the US Border Patrol on January 24. A US military aircraft carrying 104 illegal immigrants from various states landed here on Wednesday, the first such batch of Indians deported by the Donald Trump government as part of a crackdown against illegal immigrants. Of them, 33 each were from Haryana and Gujarat, 30 from Punjab, three each from Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, and two from Chandigarh, sources said. Nineteen women and 13 minors, including a four-year-old boy and two girls, aged five and seven, were among the deportees, they said. Deportees from Punjab were taken to their native places in police vehicles from the Amritsar airport. After reaching his home town Wednesday night, Jaspal said he was defrauded by a travel agent as he was promised that he would be sent to the US in a legal way. I had asked the agent to send me through a proper visa. But he deceived me, said Jaspal. He said that the deal was done at Rs 30 lakh. Jaspal claimed that he reached Brazil by air in July last year. He said he was promised that the next leg of journey, to the US, would be by air too. However, he was cheated by his agent, who forced him to cross the border illegally. After staying for six months in Brazil, he crossed the border to the US, but was arrested by the US Border Patrol. He was kept there in custody for 11 days and then sent back home. Jaspal said he didn't know he was being deported to India. We thought we were being taken to another camp. Then a police officer told us that they were being taken to India. We were handcuffed and our legs were chained. These were opened at the Amritsar airport, he claimed. Jaspal said he was shattered with deportation. A huge sum was spent. The money was borrowed. Earlier, Jaspal's cousin Jasbir Singh said, We came to know about his deportation through the media on Wednesday morning. About the deportations, he said, These are issues of governments. When we go abroad for work, we have big dreams for a better future for our families. Those have now been shattered. Two more deportees, who reached their home towns in Hoshiarpur on Wednesday night, also shared their ordeal they went through to reach the US. Harwinder Singh, who hails from Tahli village in Hoshiarpur, said he left for the US in August last year. He was taken to Qatar, Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Panama, Nicaragua, and then Mexico. From Mexico, he along with others were taken to the US, he said. We crossed hills. A boat, which was taking him along with other persons, was about to capsize in the sea but we survived, he told reporters. He said he saw one person dying in the Panama jungle and one drowning in the sea. Punjab minister seeks PM Modi's intervention in deportation of Indians from US, urges him to find a solution Singh said his travel agent had promised him that he would first be taken to Europe and then to Mexico. He said that he spent Rs 42 lakh for his trip to the US. Sometimes we got rice. Sometimes, we did not get anything to eat. We used to get biscuits, he said. Another deportee from Punjab spoke about the 'donkey route' used to take them to the US. Our clothes worth Rs 30,000-35,000 were stolen on the way, he said. The deportee said they were first taken to Italy and then to Latin America. He said they took a 15-hour-long boat ride and were made to walk 40-45 kms. We crossed 17-18 hills. If one slipped, then there would be no chance that he would survive... We have seen a lot. If anybody got injured, he was left to die. We saw dead bodies, he said. Earlier in the day, the C-17 Globemaster aircraft of the US Air Force landed at the Amritsar airport. The US action came just days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Washington for wide-ranging talks with President Donald Trump. The deportees were questioned inside the airport terminal building by different government agencies, including the Punjab Police, and various state and central intelligence agencies to check if they have any criminal record.

Huge loans, land loss in pursuit of American dream a nightmare now

CHANDIGARH: The families of illegal Indian immigrants deported back on Wednesday had taken loans and sold their lands or homes to send their wards to the United States, and they are now worried about how to repay the vast amounts. They had raised anywhere between Rs 40-60 lakh to pay agents for sending the youths abroad through the donkey route, a move that has backfired. They want the government to help them out financially. One of the deported youths, Gurpreet Singh, who belongs to Tarf Behbal village in Kapurthala district, had gone to the US only six months ago. His family says they only learned on Wednesday that he was being sent back. We have now lost our house, as we took a loan of Rs 45 lakh from relatives, friends and others to send him. Now, we can only survive if the government helps us. Else, it is all over, said a family member. Akashdeep Singh from Rajatal in Amritsar had been out of contact with his family for the last fortnight. His father came to know why, when the police informed him of his return. The family spent Rs 60 lakh to send him to the US. But he is happy that at least his son returned safely. It is the same story with Jaswinder Singh of Ahanpura village in Fategarh Sahib. His son reached the US on January 15 this year after they raised Rs 50 lakh through a loan. He left India around the Dussehra festival last year. He was asking for money from me. I arranged it by taking loans on interest from jewellers and relatives. I do not know how he went. We sent him abroad because he did not find any work here. We thought he would earn and improve our lot. But we did not know this would happen, said a family member. One of the deported women is Sukhjit Kaur. Her father, though, is in Italy. Her family has a similar tale of woe. Punjab minister seeks PM Modi's intervention in deportation of Indians from US, urges him to find a solution Spending Rs 42 lakh, the family of Harwinder Singh of Tahli village in Hoshiarpur district had sent him to the US about 10 months ago. His wife lamented, When my husband returns home, I will ask him how he got caught and how he was treated. The agent had told us he would send my husband legally, but instead, he sent him through the donkey route. When my husband reached the US, his condition was terrible. She took loans to give him the money. She has at home two children, her husbands father and younger brother. The family has to survive on income from a small piece of land and a small dairy. Our financial condition is terrible, she added. His father hopes the government will help them. Over 100 illegal Indian migrants deported from US via military aircraft land in Amritsar Regarding Pardeep of Jarout village in SAS Nagar district, the family spent Rs 41 lakh on him by selling half an acre of their land and taking a loan. His mother said, Now the family is tense. What should we do? He returned to the US six months ago and is home now. We used to ask the agent about him, and he used to tell us that Pardeep was doing fine. We used to talk to Pardeep, and he also told us he was fine. The mother demands that he should get a government job. Punjab NRI Affairs Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal said that he spoke to the deportees, and most of them told him that they were sent to the US by Dubai-based travel agents, the agreements struck over the phone. The youth from here went to Dubai and were sent to the US via different countries, including the UK. A few of them even had Canadian visas, he added. According to sources, the deportees reportedly said during initial questioning that they had used different agents and stayed at multiple locations before being caught.

Deported youths had entered US via Mexico, kin at wits' end after spending Rs 40-60 lakh

The 104 Indian nationals deported to India on Wednesday aboard a US military flight were individuals who had entered the US through the Mexican border into Texas, sources familiar with the process told The New Indian Express . More individuals from the same area are expected to be deported in the coming days as both nations continue verifying their nationalities. There are also thousands of Indians waiting for deportation along the Canadian border which is also being discussed between the two countries. We received 104 nationals on Wednesday who were residing illegally in the United States. The process is ongoing, and in line with our policy, we will return nationals whose nationality is confirmed after overstaying, said a source. Though the US government has been sending back illegal immigrants to India for some years now, this was the first instance of deportation under the second Trump administration. During the last deportation in October, the US government had used a chartered aircraft. When asked why a military aircraft was used, a spokesperson for the US embassy in New Delhi said: The US military is supporting the administrations effort to expedite the removal of illegal migrants. Over 100 illegal Indian migrants deported from US via military aircraft land in Amritsar Meanwhile, the government is focused on improving the migration process to ensure that a few illegal migrants do not tarnish the country's image as a source of highly skilled workers through legal channels. ast week, the US President mentioned that he had discussed immigration with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and stated that India would do what is right in managing the return of illegal immigrants. Likewise, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had earlier remarked that New Delhi is open to the legitimate return of Indian nationals living illegally abroad, including in the US. During a meeting of the parliamentary standing committee on external affairs, chaired by Congress MP Dr. Shashi Tharoor, on Tuesday the government briefed members on the issue. While many, including Congresss Rajeev Shukla, raised serious concerns about the future of these Indians returning to India, sources said there was broad agreement among members on addressing illegal immigration by promoting legal emigration with the US and other countries. This includes strengthening existing legal frameworks and raising awareness. However, despite efforts by successive governments, the Emigration Act of 1983 remains unchanged. Now, the Ministry of External Affairs is preparing a new bill for presentation in Parliament, tentatively titled the Overseas Mobility (Facilitation and Welfare) Bill, 2024. Once discussions with other ministries are completed, the bill will be made available for public comments. The movement of people and migration patterns have undergone significant changes. In recent times, migration has become a highly politicized issue in many countries. We need to align our migration policies with these evolving global realities. It's not just about the US; many countries are now rethinking their approach to migration, said a source. Punjab minister seeks PM Modi's intervention in deportation of Indians from US, urges him to find a solution The families of the deported youths had taken loans and sold lands or houses to send them to the US through the 'donkey route' paying anywhere between Rs 40 to Rs 60 lakh. They are at their wits' end on how to pay back the loans. One of the deported youths, Jaswinder Singh of Ahanpura village in Fategarh Sahib, had reached the US only on January 15 this year after his family took loans of Rs 50 lakh to send him. He went last year around the Dussehra festival. We arranged for loans and also took money from relatives to send him to the US. We do not know how he went. He did not find any work here so we sent him abroad. We thought that he will earn well there and thus his and our lives will turn for good but we did not know this will happen, said a family member. It's the same story with Gurpreet Singh from Tarf Behbal village in Kaurthala district who had gone to the US only six months back. His family said they came to know only on Wednesday through the media that he had been deported. We have now lost our house, as we had taken a loan of Rs 45 lakh to send him. Only if the government helps us can we survive, otherwise it is all over, said a family member. Spending Rs 42 lakh, the family of Harwinder Singh of Tahli village in Hoshiarpur district had sent him about ten months back to United States. You can see how we are feeling. The agent had told us that he will send my husband legally but instead he sent him through the 'donkey route', said his wife, adding that she took money from villagers and her brothers and sisters to send him abroad. She said they have two children and their financial condition is very bad. Singh's father demanded that the government should help them financially. The family of Pardeep of Jarout village in SAS Nagar district spent Rs 41 lakh to send him to the US, selling half an acre of their land and also taking a loan. Now we are worried. He had gone six months ago. We used to talk to him and he would tell us he is fine, said his mother, demanding that he should be given a government job. Akashdeep Singh from Rajatal in Amritsar had not been in contact with his family for fifteen days. His father stated that the police informed them of his return. The family spent Rs 60 lakh to send him to the US and expressed relief that he has returned safely. Punjab NRI Affairs Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaiwal said he spoke to illegal immigrants from Punjab who were deported and most of them told him that they were sent to the US by travel agents based in Dubai. The youth from here went to Dubai and then they were sent to the US via different countries including the UK. A few of them had Canadian visas too. Sources said that during initial questioning, the deportees reportedly said that they had used different agents and stayed at multiple locations before being apprehended.

Punjab minister seeks PM Modi's intervention in deportation of Indians from US, urges him to find a solution

AMRITSAR: A US military aircraft carrying 104 illegal immigrants from various states landed here on Wednesday, the first such batch of Indians deported by the Trump government as part of a crackdown it resolved to carry out when it was sworn in last month. Of them, 33 each are from Haryana and Gujarat, 30 from Punjab, three each from Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, and two from Chandigarh, sources said. Nineteen women and 13 minors, including a 4-year-old boy and two girls aged five and seven years, were among the deportees, they said. The C-17 Globemaster aircraft of the US Air Force landed at the Amritsar airport at 1:55 pm. The US action came just days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Washington to hold wide-ranging talks with President Donald Trump. Hours after the US military aircraft landed at the airport, Punjab NRI Affairs minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intervention, urging him to speak to his friend US President Donald Trump regarding the deportation of Indians. Over 100 illegal Indian migrants deported from US via military aircraft land in Amritsar Dhaliwal also spoke to some of the deportees hailing from Punjab at the airport. Addressing the media, Dhaliwal said a total of 104 Indians have been deported from the US and out of them 30 were from Punjab. It was a long flight. All are healthy and fine; they had their meal, he said. Paperwork of deportees hailing from Punjab was done in the first batch. Thereafter, the immigration process of those from Haryana, Gujarat and other states will be carried out, the minister said. Describing the deportation of illegal Indians from the US as a very serious issue, Dhaliwal, said, We all know that PM Modi used to say that 'Trump is my friend'. He even campaigned for Trump during the 2019 US elections. These are international issues and can be discussed and resolved at that level. I urge PM Modi that the sword of deportation and jail is hanging on the heads of many Indians and he should hold their hands. He should sit with Trump and find a solution to this issue. The deportees were questioned inside the airport terminal building by different government agencies, including the Punjab Police, and various state and central intelligence agencies to check if they have any criminal record. Around 6:45 pm the deportees from Punjab were taken to their respective hometowns in police vehicles after completion of all formalities. Similarly, illegal immigrants from Haryana were taken by the state police to their native places, sources said. They also said that arrangements were made by the state governments concerned to take the deportees to their native places. None of the deportees spoke to the media. There was heavy barricading outside the airport and police personnel were deployed in large numbers. Except for an Amritsar-based man, who came for his grandson, none of the family members of other deportees showed up at the airport. He, however, refused to talk to reporters at the airport and seemed miffed by the volley of questions. Earlier, media reports claimed that the US military plane was carrying 205 illegal immigrants. Among the illegal immigrants hailing from Punjab, six were from Kapurthala, five from Amritsar, four each from Patiala and Jalandhar, two each from Hoshiarpur, Ludhiana, SBS Nagar and one each from Gurdaspur, Tarn Taran, Sangrur, SAS Nagar and Fatehgarh Sahib, sources said. Family members of the illegal immigrants from Punjab said they took huge loans to send the youths to America hoping for a bright future but now feel it is impossible to break free from the crushing debt. They alleged that the travel agents adopted unfair means to facilitate the youths' travel to the US without their knowledge. They now seek strict action against those agents. Senior Punjab BJP leader Harjit Singh Grewal asked Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to make arrangements for the resettlement and employment of those from the state who have been deported by the US government. He also demanded strict action against the travel agents who sent the youths to the US through donkey routes and other illegal means by taking lakhs of rupees from them. Meanwhile, the Congress expressed sadness over pictures of Indians getting handcuffed and humiliated while being deported from the US and recalled that America had to express regret over the treatment meted out to India diplomat Devyani Khobragade in 2013 after the then UPA government retaliated sharply. Pictures of Indians getting handcuffed, humiliated while being deported from US saddening: Congress Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Tuesday said the media kerfuffle over the deportation of illegal Indian migrants from the United States obscures a few facts. This is not the first such planeload, nor is it directly related to the ascent of @realDonaldTrump. There were 1,100 Indians deported in the previous fiscal year (ending September 2024), under Biden, not Trump. As of 2022, there were 725,000 undocumented Indian immigrants in the US -- the third-largest group, outnumbered only by nationals of Mexico and El Salvador, he said. Since October 2020, US Customs and Border Protection officials have detained nearly 170,000 Indian migrants attempting to cross the border illegally from either Canada or Mexico. They are all subject to deportation, Tharoor said. After Donald Trump assumed office as the US President last month, the country's law enforcement agencies have launched a crackdown against illegal immigrants. Many Indians, who entered the US through donkey routes or other illegal means by spending lakhs of rupees, are now facing deportation. Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said on Tuesday that the state government would receive the immigrants and set up counters at the airport.

Farmers hold tractor parade in parts of Punjab in support of their demands

Hoshiarpur/Chandigarh, Jan 26 (PTI) Farmers from various organisations under the banner of the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) on Sunday took out a tractor parade at multiple locations across Punjab in support of their demands. These demands include a legal guarantee on minimum support price (MSP), which is based on the C2 plus 50 per cent formula given by the Swaminathan committee, a comprehensive loan waiver scheme for farmers and farm workers, no privatisation of electricity, withdrawal of the National Policy Framework on Agriculture Marketing (NPFAM), and debt waiver, among others. Hundreds of farmers, including senior SKM leaders, took part in