AAP government facing backlash as village panchayats pass resolutions against land pooling policy

CHANDIGARH: The Aam Aadmi Party-led Punjab Government is facing backlash in many villages across the state over the controversial land pooling policy , which it has notified and plans to acquire 65,533 acres of land across 21 cities and towns in the state to develop both industrial and residential zones. As many as 107 panchayats across the state have passed resolutions in their respective villages, saying they will not give up their land to the government and in the coming days, many more panchayats are expected to pass similar resolutions. Talking with TNIE , Senior Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) leader and president of BKU (Lakhowal group) Harinder Singh Lakhowal said that the opposition to the state government's controversial land pooling policy is growing, despite CM Bhagwant Mann and several AAP leaders insisting that land acquisition will be purely voluntary. Around 15 to 20 panchayats in Jodha, Dohal Kallan, Rattana and other villages near Ludhiana have already passed resolutions in their respective panchayats not to give land to the government. Also, many other village panchayats who had earlier passed resolutions not to give land are now re-passing the resolution because the original resolutions were not legally tenable. A proper procedure has to be followed to call a gram sabha and appoint a secretary who will oversee that the resolution has been passed, he added. AAP govt in hot water in Punjab as farmer unions oppose land pooling; BJP, Congress give tactical support to stir Lakhowal said that a total of around 200 panchayats of 160 where land is being acquired for residential purposes and another 40 where, in the coming week, land will be acquired for industrial purpose, are expected to pass the resolutions soon. Most of them are in Ludhiana, and around 24,000 acres of land is being acquired in the district, followed by Moga, Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur and Amritsar districts, he added. Besides this 24,000 acres to be acquired in Ludhiana for residential purpose and another 21,000 acres is being acquired for industrial purposes, the notification of the same is expected to be issued in the coming week for that the farmers unions have called for a meeting tomorrow to oppose the acquisition and we will ask the villagers if they want to give their land to the government or not as all of them have already objected, he said. Pawandeep Singh of Mehlon said that 250 acres of land is being acquired in their village, which is being opposed. The very thought of losing his small landholding and moving to a new place did not let him sleep, he said. Gurinder Singh of Nathu Bhaini village says that around 350 acres of land in their village are being acquired by the government, leaving nothing to the villagers. This is the first legal hurdle we have cleared in what we assume will be a long fight with the state government, he said. In Bhattian village near Phillaur, where 700 acres of land is to be acquired, the sarpanch of the village Ranjit Singh Batth said that the panchayat passed a resolution against the acquisition a few days ago. Many farmers are drawing parallels between this policy and the three farm laws that were introduced in 2020 by the BJP-led Union Government, which were later repealed after a year-long struggle. Senior SKM leader and president of the BKU (Rajewal Group) said that the SKM was also guiding panchayats on filing of resolutions against their land being taken away. The government is falsely saying that the farmers support this policy, he said. The farmers from across the state will take out a tractor march on July 30 against the land pooling policy.

Kargil Diwas: Of folded flags, blurred letters, and unfading memories

For some, it is a page of history. For some, it is a lived experience. While another section sees it as an unspoken pain and a memory imprinted in folded flags. Twenty-six years after the Kargil War, also known as Operation Vijay, the memories continue to linger in conversations, ceremonies, and in the glass frames where medals rest beside photographs. The Indian army, with a mission to win over the peaks occupied by the cross-border army, also battled altitude and distance from family. This duty to the nation came above every personal task and relationship. The only thread that connected them to their homes was the fragments of paper bearing good wishes, and the promises of returning safely made to the families they clung to it. In Chennai, far from the border, the tremors were felt in news bulletins, prayer meetings, and protest marches. Communities came together to donate and support the army. (Retd) Major Madhan Kumar shares, When Atal ji started the Defence Personnel Fund, Tamil Nadu was the highest contributor. Karunanidhi, then Chief Minister, conducted a music festival at the Nehru Indoor Stadium. A lot of donation was collected, which were eventually routed to the Fund. He adds that most of the autorickshaws in the city and state carried posters of Major M Saravanan and Vikram Batra. A lot of people volunteered, and many were willing to go fight for the Indian Army, he notes. While the instances of the entire nation coming together bring back emotional memories, soldiers and their families bear the invisible scars of the war, even 26 years since it ended. As civilians share posts on social media today for the jawans , Kargil Diwas is more than just a date on the calendar for those who were in the scene; its a constant reminder of bravery, loss, and resilience. (Retd) Col Sada S Peter and his wife Maria Anita from Chennai Anita recalls the days before the Kargil War began: I had just delivered my second baby in November and was about to join my husband after a break from his field post in Sikkim. In May 1999, he was about to take me and the babies to his regiment in Delhi. Then suddenly, I fell sick, so I could not go with him right away. After 10 days, I got a call from him saying, You wont be able to join me. I have been assigned to something bigger. I cant tell you over the phone. Right now, you look after the baby and continue the [elder] childs education. We will talk about it. Then, a month later, he called me, and his voice was feeble, and the call got disconnected soon. Later, through the media, we got to know the situation he was in. It was not what we were expecting. After that, every fortnight, he tried to call me. In those calls, I could sounds of bomb shellings. In the meantime, I used to write letters. I used to write what all happened throughout the day, about the childrens activities. Its not like he got the letters frequently. Col Sada says, I used to get 7-8 letters in bulk. I used to sit on the bonnet of my jeep and read them. Each letter was about 2-3 pages long, which also had some drawings by my son. I used to keep them in my pockets. In September, he came home. He just came for a couple of weeks, and he went back again. He came back in the last week of December and took us back to the regiment. He was a little troubled then. I could sense that through his disturbed sleep. I could see something was amiss because it was too much for him...that trauma. I started having bizarre dreams. Something black was coming from the tap. Warriors were standing in front of me. Then one day, I saw two small boys walking with my boots on and trampling all over the house. The whole house was full of marks. I would get up shaken, sweating, and in pain, says Col Sada. It took him almost two years to come out of it. She handled all my eccentricities, irritation, low threshold to accepting an issue, and my anger bursts. After a lot of hand-holding from her side, introspection, and prayers, I became better, concludes Col Sada. (Retd) Lt Col Murugesan C from Tirunelveli I was the reinforcement officer at the time placed in Sonamarg, J&K. Suddenly, in the night, at around eleven, I got a call to move with my troops to Tololing. The moonlight was beaming over the roads. There was snow everywhere, and the road was slippery. At that time, the government did not allow the army to cross the LoC. Our role was to cross the Line of Control in the nighttime, after 11 oclock, observe the enemys movement over there, and come back before first light, that is before 5 o clock. We were getting trained for the war, and the strategies were being built at that time. On one of these days, my commanding officer (CO) met us at 8.30 am. He supplied drinks to everyone, gave us a letter to write, and said, Write a letter as if this is the final letter to your parents and family. Write whatever you want. I was confused; whom to write to and what to write? I was thinking of writing to my father, mother, sister...and my aunt in my village. She was my caretaker when I was working there. My letter read, When this letter reaches you, and when you are reading this, it means Im not here. Take care of the family and everything. I posted the letter and forgot. Meanwhile, when the letter reached home, my sister told everybody Murugesan is dead and the villagers started crying. My sister came to the Dakshin Bharat area in Chennai and inquired about me. The letter had details about my regiment in Akhnoor. My sister gave a call to Akhnoor. And from Akhnoor, the call was connected to my unit, and my CO answered and said, Murugesan is here only. The call with my CO went something like this: You bloody. Are you alive? My team and I went on the operation, we succeeded, and we came back. We were alive. Then a year later, I went back home, and the villagers greeted me saying, a ghost has come. This is the most memorable moment. In 2019, I was posted in Kargil. This time, I was the camp commandant in 56 Mountain Brigade. The twentieth Kargil Diwas was celebrated, and I was in charge of receiving the war veterans and the guests. A team came from Jalandhar. I took them to a particular point in Tololing. From there, we went to another place, from where we could see Tiger Hill. I briefed them about what happened how Pak infiltrators were sitting on the top, and our people [army officers] climbed on the hill, opened fire, and everything that followed. Life came full circle. Shakthivelu R Shakthivelu R, Liaison Officers Car Driver (Retd) from Madurai WHEN the war broke out, Saurabh Kalia and five of his gallant soldiers were held captive by the Pakistani army. They tortured them. There was evidence of ear drums pierced with hot rods, broken teeth and bones, punctured eyes and nails, cut lips, chipped noses, and more in the post-mortem report. These bodies were brought to Leh airfield, where it was received by Chief of Army, Ved Prakash Malik, and the Defence Minister, George Fernandes. There were restrictions on flight take-off timings because of weather conditions, and natural light to land at Leh. So, around 3.30 pm, I, among others, shifted the covered and unrecognised bodies to the aircraft. After that, I was in Chandigarh. I served there for two years, and throughout the time, bodies were being recovered from the peaks. As the snow melted, bodies were found. The government allocated the N Area referring to the headquarters N Area Office Aerodrome for the bodies to be brought and honouring the officers with a 21-gun salute. This was the place that was used by the army to transport ammunition, food and others. Kargil was one of the riskiest wars fought by the country. Every army officer who climbed the peak knew that they may or may not return alive, yet they went ahead. Such is the grit of the army officers. And the Indian army, in particular, has a lot of willpower and resilience. They also got equal support from their families and citizens of the nation.

NIT Jalandhar Guest Faculty Recruitment 2025 Walk in for 34 Posts

National Institute of Technology Jalandhar (NIT Jalandhar) Recruitment 2025 for 34 posts of Guest Faculty. Candidates with B.A, B.B.A, B.Com, B.Sc, B.Tech/B.E, M.Ed, M.Sc, M.E/M.Tech, MBA/PGDM, M.Phil/Ph.D, PGDM Can attend the walkin.The Walk-in starts from 28-07-2025, and ends on 29-07-2025. For detailed information please visit NIT Jalandhar official website, nitj.ac.in.

Punjab government, SGPC spar over parallel events for Guru Tegh Bahadur's 350th martyrdom anniversary

CHANDIGARH: The Aam Aadmi Party-led Punjab government and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the apex representative body of Sikhs, are at daggers drawn over events planned to commemorate the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur from November 19 to 25 this year. SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami said that the Punjab government should focus on establishing meaningful memorials in connection with the 350th martyrdom anniversary of the Ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Teg Bahadar, instead of creating a confrontational atmosphere by organising parallel religious events. Dhami said the SGPC had already planned a series of events related 350th martyrdom anniversary a year in advance, beginning in April 2025 from Gurdwara Guru Ke Mahal, Amritsar. Since then, events have been organised across various parts of the country. He said that the Punjab governments announcement of parallel eventsoverlapping with those planned by the SGPC at Anandpur Sahibwill cause confusion among the Sangat (community) and goes against long-standing traditions He alleged that the government appears to be deliberately trying to sideline Sikh institutions. Historically, centenary celebrations related to Sikh heritage and history have been led by the Khalsa Panth, with participation from all Sikh sampradas and organisations while the governments supporting them. Dhami questioned why the government has not shown due seriousness towards nearly 12 Sikh centenaries during its tenureincluding the centenary of the Guru Ka Bagh Morcha, the centenary of the Saka Panja Sahib, 200 years of Shaheedi of Akali Baba Phoola Singh, Guru Angad Devs Guruship Day, and the 450th Jyoti Jot Diwas of Guru Amar Das. He recalled how earlier governments cooperated with the Panth in marking the centenaries, establishing major memorials such as Guru Nanak Dev University, Guru Nanak Hospital (Amritsar), and colleges during Guru Nanak Devs 500th Prakash Purab (birth anniversary) in 1969; Virasat-e-Khalsa and Panj Piara Park during the 300th Khalsa Sajna Diwas in 1999 and a historical memorial at Chappar Chiri in 2010 in remembrance of Baba Banda Singh Bahadars victory at Sirhind. However, the current government led by Bhagwant Mann is instead interfering in the jurisdiction of Panthic institutions and organizations, he alleged. Dhami reaffirmed that the SGPC, as the supreme religious body of the Sikh Panth, has already made clear that heads of all governments will be invited to participate in these commemorations, ensuring inclusivity. In such a context, the government's move to announce parallel programs raises serious concerns. Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday had announced a series of events to be organised by the state government to commemorate the 350th martyrdom day of Guru Tegh Bahadur. After chairing a meeting, Mann said the events would primarily be held at Anandpur Sahib under the aegis of the state government . He had said that from November 19 to November 25, a series of events will beorganised with deep reverence and respect across the state. In a statement, Mann said these events will primarily take place in Anandpur Sahib under the auspices of the state government. To mark the occasion, CM Mann announced that four grand yatras will begin from different corners of Punjab and converge at Anandpur Sahib. The first will begin on November 21 from Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir and pass through Pathankot and Hoshiarpur to reach Anandpur Sahib. Likewise, CM Mann said that the second yatra will start from Gurdaspur and travel through Baba Bakala, Amritsar Sahib, Tarn Taran, and Jalandhar, eventually reaching Anandpur Sahib. He said the third yatra will start from Ferozepur, pass through Moga and Ludhiana to proceed towards Anandpur Sahib and the fourth yatra will also start from Ferozepur and will pass through Faridkot, Bathinda, Barnala, Sangrur, Mansa, and Patiala, and conclude at Anandpur Sahib. The CM had added that light-and-sound shows and poetry sessions based on Guru Sahib's life and sacrifice would be organised in all 23 districts of Punjab. Blaming the SGPCs stance, Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains said, You know the reasons. They do not want to meet us. Through you, we are extending an invitation to them. They can call us or approach the state government.

Centres help also sought for Jalandhars sports goods sector

114-year-old Fauja Singh, worlds oldest marathoner cremated with state honours in Punjab

CHANDIGARH: The 114-year-old Fauja Singh, the worlds oldest marathoner, was cremated today with state honours at his native village Beas, near Jalandhar. The Punjab Government has decided to rename the school in his village after him, besides installing his statues at the village stadium and the Sports College in Jalandhar. Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, and leaders from across political parties attended his cremation, along with scores of rural residents. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also sent words of praise for Singh. Singhs son, Harvinder Singh, lit the funeral pyre, and the Punjab Police gave a gun salute. The 114-year-old was allegedly hit by an SUV driven by Canada-based Amritpal Singh Dhillon on July 14 while crossing the JalandharPathankot highway. Earlier, Singhs body was kept in a glass casket at his residence in the village, with his photograph beside it, where people paid their tributes. Around noon, it was carried to the cremation ground located outside the village. The family expressed pride in the achievements of their centenarian loved one, for whom they also received a condolence letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. That he (Fauja Singh) took up long-distance running at a very advanced age speaks volumes of not only his physical fitness, but more importantly, his mental strength and resilience, read the letter. Punjab Governor Kataria, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Cabinet Minister Mohinder Bhagat, Congress MLAs Pargat Singh, Rana Gurjeet Singh, Sukhwinder Singh Kotli, Hardev Singh Ladi Sherowalia, senior Shiromani Akali Dal leader Dr Daljit Singh Cheema, Jalandhar Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Aggarwal, and Jalandhar Range DIG Naveen Singla placed wreaths at the pyre. Kataria recalled how Fauja Singh walked with him during a Nasha Mukt Yatra, an anti-drug campaign, last year. He said that after walking for one kilometre, he asked him to stop, but to his surprise, Fauja Singh insisted that they continue walking. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, who laid a wreath on Singhs body, expressed profound grief and sorrow over the demise of the international marathoner. He said that the sports fraternity would forever remain indebted to the late Singh for his enormous contribution to taking athletics to new heights by defying his age on the international stage. Mann said that the void created by the death of this legendary athlete is difficult to fill in the near future. Recognising his immense contribution, the state government will rename the school in his village after him, besides installing his statues at the village stadium and the Sports College in Jalandhar. Singhs career as a marathon runner began when he was 89. He went on to become a global icon, gaining the nickname Turbaned Tornado for his endurance and athleticism.

Last Rites of Marathon Legend Fauja Singh Held in Jalandhar

Family members, friends, and admirers gathered to pay their respects to the iconic runner, who was fondly known as the 'Sikh Superman' and the 'Turbaned Tornado' for his remarkable achievements in marathon running.

World's oldest marathoner Fauja Singh cremated with full state honours in Jalandhar's Beas

World's oldest marathoner, Fauja Singh, known as 'Turbaned Tornado,' was cremated with full state honors in his native village, Beas. Punjab's Governor and Chief Minister attended the funeral. Singh, 114, died after being hit by a car on July 14. His running career began at 89, making him a global icon.

Fate, not time, outran this turbaned Tornado

At an age when most people soothe their soles and massage sagging egos, Fauja Singh was lacing up his trainers for another bout with himself, for he was his own rival of his age on the asphalt track. The tentative strolls in the courtyard were not for him. He preferred the top variant the marathon, all 26.2 miles of it. This remarkable specimen of health and determination was a man of contradictions. Until the very end of his extraordinary life, cut short at 114, Singh remained a human paradox: delicate in frame, yet indefatigable in spirit; quiet of demeanour with a thundering legacy. He did not need a stopwatch to run. Time stopped to meet his pace. Fauja Singh was the youngest of four children.Gallari (talkative), as he was called, was born in Beas village in Jalandhar in 1911. Fragile as a newborn, his parents were worried when he wobbled trying to walk even at five. In the end, it was his legs that would carry him to global fame on their shoulders. He had an uneventful life, the lone high point being his move to the UK in 1993, after his wife and a son passed away in Punjab. Bent with age and sorrow, he was on the brink of exhaustion. He said to himself, Hello, why am I wallowing in self-pity? His salvation came in the form of running. He left his grief behind as he pumped his muscles, pounding his feet on the paved streets. At 89, he ran his first marathon. Longevity, for him, was a matter of academic interest. The world began to notice him. First with amusement, then awe and finally, adoration. He kept himself fit. People loved him for his joie de vivre, his friendly face with the mouth always creasing into a smile and, yes, the twinkle in his eyes. He ran nine full marathons, including six London Marathons, and several half marathons, his last official engagement at the age of 101. He ran in the UK and abroad, in London, Hong Kong, New York, and Toronto, remaining fit and agile as he grew older, a living testament to human potential. He turned 100 in 2011 and how! He took part in the Toronto Waterfront Marathon, completing it in 8 hours, 11 minutes, and 6 seconds. No human ever came close to running that long at that age. It was a Guinness World Record, but was mired in controversy because he couldnt produce a birth certificate. The world watched this frail but bouncing marathoner as he carried the Olympic torch for the London Games in 2012. Records mattered a whit for Fauja Singh as long as he could run. Nutritionists and dieticians followed his routine, meaning to prise the secret of his enduring health. A strict vegetarian, his meals were simple yet nourishing. Dal and roti, lukewarm water and warm milk at night and, of course, his favourites long gourds, apple gourds and mangoes. It was all in the mind, he would say. His name was a brand. Global sports brands embraced him. He featured in the 2004 Adidas campaign, Impossible Is Nothing (Muhammad Ali and David Beckham were among others). The British Queen honoured him. Khushwant Singh wrote his biography, Turbaned Tornado: The oldest marathon runner Fauja Singh. He will enter the celluloid world when the biopic on him is made. More than fame, what made Fauja Singh happy was seeing senior citizens across the globe take to physical exercise, even running, and emulate him. He was as generous off the track as he was competitive on it. Fauja Singh supported charities. He enjoyed contributing to the welfare of children, providing relief from man-made disasters, and, of course, participating in Sikh humanitarian efforts. He ran for a variety of causes. And as the world got accustomed to greeting him on his birthdays, he was suddenly gone. He might have regretted the way he had to go, fatally flipped by a speeding car near home. He would have preferred ending his journey on running track with his trainers on.

Towards fit India

EDITORIAL Fauja Singhs life can serve as an inspiration to take the movement forward Earlier this week, the world mourned the death of centenarian marathon runner Fauja Singh (114). He succumbed to injuries sustained after being hit by an SUV while crossing a road in his birth village, Beas Pind, in Jalandhar district, Punjab. Police []

Fauja Singh hit-and-run: NRI who was driving SUV felt guilty; held for leaving marathoner to die

Amritpal Singh Dhillon, a Canada-returned man, was arrested for fatally hitting 114-year-old marathoner Fauja Singh with a borrowed Fortuner on the Jalandhar-Pathankot highway. Dhillon, who fled the scene, claimed he was unaware of the victim's identity until news reports surfaced.

Chandigarh diary | Kangana concerned over lack of respect for MPs

Bollywood actor and Mandi MP Kangana Ranaut in a recent interview roughed many of her party leaders after she expressed concern about lack of respect and resources for MPs. The national award-winning actress said she had implied that she was not enjoying her work as an MP as people would came to her with panchayat-level problems. If you are an MP, you cannot be in the profession if your are an honest person, she said. When asked if she expected to be part of the Union Cabinet, Kangana said she expected to get a portfolio. She said after her contributions toward the people and the Centre, she believes she should have been assigned a ministry. Mann praises 2 Cong MLAs in the assembly 2: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann showered praises on two Congress MLAs in the recent special Assembly session; the legislators being Pargat Singh from Jalandhar (Cantonment) and Rana Gurjit Singh from Kapurthala. The CM As Captain of the Indian hockey team, he (Pargat) witnessed the Tricolour being raised during international hockey competitions. He also praised Rana Gurjit, calling him Bapu (father-figure) . Both Congress legislators were left surprised by the CMs words of affection. Pargat and Rana have been critical of Punjab Congress president and Ludhiana MP Amarinder Singh Raja Warring and LoP Partap Singh Bajwa. Sainis dressing down to cops over law & order Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini chaired a 3-hour-long meeting over law and order last week with the top brass of state police. In the meeting that ran well into the night, Saini did not mince his words in conveying his displeasure over the poor law and order situation in the state. He reportedly stressed the need for each police station to consistentl y track crime patterns and respond swiftly to any rise in criminal incidents. Accountability should be ensured not only at the district level but also at the police station level, the CM said. Saini told the officers that he was in power because of the mandate of the people and not due to some ones generosity. Harpreet Bajwa Our correspondent in Chandigarh hsbajwa73@gmail.com

Punjab chief info commissioner slams Jalandhar municipal body for lapses

Hit and run case: 'Didn't know I hit Fauja Singh', says driver held for his death

Amritpal Singh Dhillon, a Canada-returned man, was arrested for fatally hitting 114-year-old marathoner Fauja Singh with a borrowed Fortuner on the Jalandhar-Pathankot highway. Dhillon, who fled the scene, claimed he was unaware of who he had struck and was scared. Police investigations, including CCTV footage analysis, led to his arrest, and he now faces culpable homicide and rash driving charges.

'Learnt About It From News': Canada-Based Man Held For Hit-And-Run Of Fauja Singh

The tragic incident occurred on Monday in Bias village in Punjabs Jalandhar district, where Fauja Singh was walking along the JalandharPathankot highway.

Canada-based driver of SUV that ran over veteran marathoner Fauja Singh arrested

CHANDIGARH, July 16: Police have arrested a Canada-based man who allegedly drove his SUV over Fauja Singh, killing the worlds oldest marathoner. Officials said the accused had returned home in Punjab just three weeks ago. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Jalandhar Rural, Harvinder Singh, told a press conference that Amritpal Singh Dhillon (26) was arrested on Tuesday night and his vehicle has also been seized. Dhillon, a native of Kartarpur, had gone to Canada on a tourist visa but got [] The post Canada-based driver of SUV that ran over veteran marathoner Fauja Singh arrested appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Video: Moments Before Marathoner Fauja Singh Was Killed By Speeding SUV

A CCTV footage has emerged of Fauja Singh, the world's oldest marathoner, walking down a road in Punjab's Jalandhar, minutes before he was mowed down by an SUV earlier this week.

NRI Who Ran Over Fauja Singh Came From Canada 3 Weeks Ago: All About Him

Amritpal Singh Dhillon, originally from Kartarpur in Jalandhar, lives with his family - mother and three sisters - in Canada, where he works as a labourer.

Driver of SUV that ran over veteran marathoner Fauja Singh arrested

Amritpal Singh Dhillon, 26, has been arrested for allegedly running over and killing Fauja Singh, the 114-year-old marathoner, in Punjab's Jalandhar district. Dhillon's vehicle has been seized, and he faces charges of rash driving and culpable homicide. The incident prompted condolences from leaders, including Prime Minister Modi and Chief Minister Mann, who praised Singh's inspirational impact.

Driver of SUV that ran over veteran marathoner Fauja Singh arrested

Amritpal Singh Dhillon, 26, has been arrested for allegedly running over and killing Fauja Singh, the 114-year-old marathoner, in Punjab's Jalandhar district. Dhillon's vehicle has been seized, and he faces charges of rash driving and culpable homicide. The incident prompted condolences from leaders, including Prime Minister Modi and Chief Minister Mann, who praised Singh's inspirational impact.

Driver of SUV that ran over Fauja Singh arrested

The driver of the SUV that fatally struck Fauja Singh, the world's oldest marathoner, has been arrested. Amritpal Singh Dhillon, 26, was apprehended and his vehicle seized. The incident occurred on the Jalandhar-Pathankot highway in Punjab's Jalandhar district.

Last walk to dhaba: Fauja Singh ran to heal after son's death; died on way to eatery built in his memory

Fauja Singh, the world's oldest marathon runner, tragically died at 113 after being struck by a speeding vehicle near his home in Jalandhar. He was on his way to visit his family's eatery, a place built in memory of his late son.

NRI Driver Arrested In Fauja Singh Hit-And-Run Case, Fortuner Seized

The man who allegedly rammed his car into 114-year-old marathon runner Fauja Singh on the Jalandhar-Pathankot highway has been arrested, police said on Wednesday.

Fauja Singh hit-and-run: Accused NRI driver arrested in death of worlds oldest marathon runner; Fortuner also seized

Punjab police have apprehended a suspect in connection with the hit-and-run incident that resulted in the death of Fauja Singh, the world's oldest marathon runner. The 113-year-old athlete was struck by a vehicle on the Jalandhar-Pathankot highway. Investigations involving CCTV footage and eyewitness accounts led to the identification of the vehicle and subsequent arrest.

Fortuner That Hit And Killed Marathoner Fauja Singh Identified: Cops

The car which hit 114-year-old marathon runner Fauja Singh on the Jalandhar-Pathankot highway and sped away has been identified almost 24 hours after the incident, cops said.

114-yr-old marathon runner Fauja Singh dies in a hit-and-run in Punjab

Chandigarh: Veteran marathon runner Fauja Singh died on Monday, July 14, after being hit by an unidentified vehicle while out for a walk in his native village in Punjabs Jalandhar district. He was 114. His demise was confirmed by author Khushwant Singh, a former state information commissioner of Punjab, who spoke to Fauja Singhs family 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 .

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge pays Tribute to 'Turbaned Tornado' Fauja Singh

Indian National Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of legendary marathon runner Fauja Singh, who died on Monday at the age of 114. Singh, widely revered as the 'Turbaned Tornado,' lost his life in a tragic road accident in his ancestral village in Punjab's Jalandhar district.

114-yr-old Marathon runner Fauja Singh dies in road accident in Jalandhar

Well known marathon runner, Fauja Singh, died in a fatal road accident after being struck by an unidentified vehicle in Jalandhar on Monday.

Who Was Fauja Singh? 114-Year-Old Marathon Runner Who Died After Being Hit By Vehicle In Jalandhar

Born in 1911 into a family of farmers, Fauja Singh was the youngest of four siblings. He became the first centenarian to complete a marathon, earning multiple records while participating in international events.

At 114, oldest marathon runner Fauja Singh killed in road accident

Fauja Singh, the 114-year-old marathon runner and Sikh icon, tragically died in a road accident near his village in Jalandhar. Known as the 'Turbaned Tornado,' he inspired millions with his dedication and achievements, including becoming the first centenarian to complete a marathon.

114-Year-Old Fauja Singh, Legendary Marathon Runner, Dies In Road Accident On Punjab Highway

Fauja Singh was an iconic runner who earned the title of the world's oldest marathoner. He was hit by a vehicle on the Jalandhar-Pathankot highway on Monday.

114-year-old veteran marathon runner Fauja Singh dies in road accident in Jalandhar

His demise was confirmed by author Khushwant Singh, who spoke to Fauja Singh's family members.

114-yr-old veteran marathon runner Fauja Singh dies in road accident in Jalandhar

Veteran marathon runner Fauja Singh tragically passed away at the age of 114 after being struck by an unidentified vehicle in his native village in Punjab's Jalandhar district. Author Khushwant Singh confirmed the news, expressing deep sadness over the loss of his 'Turbaned Tornado.

Police arrest PO and notorious offender involved in multiple fraud and cheque bounce cases

Malerkotla Police have arrested Rupam Sharma, a proclaimed offender from Jalandhar, wanted in about fifty cases across Punjab and neighboring states. Sharma, who operated R S Agro, was primarily booked for fraud, cheating, and cheque bounce offenses, including a case in Malerkotla from 2023. The court has remanded him to 14 days of judicial custody.

AAP government in Punjab to hire retired doctors amid severe shortage of medical specialists

CHANDIGARH: Facing an acute shortage of medical specialists, the Aam Aadmi Party-led Punjab government has begun hiring retired doctors, even as it claims to have improved the states healthcare infrastructure. Nearly 47 per cent of sanctioned specialist posts in government hospitals remain vacant across Punjab. Sources said that out of the 2,098 posts of sanctioned specialists, 990 are lying vacant. Not only specialist doctors but also posts of doctors in the general medical officer cadre are lying vacant. 1,962 posts are yet to be filled out of 3,847, which comes to 51 per cent. Sources said that the state health department has decided to recruit 100 retired medical specialists through walk-in interviews. Thus, it has invited applications from the retired government doctors to apply for these contractual posts of consultants in district hospitals, sub-divisional hospitals and community health centres (CHCs). As per the notification issued by the state health department, the posts to be filled include 21 in paediatrics, 20 in general medicine, 20 in gynaecology, 15 in general surgery, 13 in anaesthesia, 7 radiologists and four doctors in psychiatry. Also, only retired specialist doctors between 58 and 64 years of age will be eligible to apply. The contract will be for one year and can be extended annually based on performance and subject to the approval of the finance department. These doctors will get remuneration equivalent to the last pay drawn, minus pension, plus dearness allowance as admissible on the date of appointment. Besides, they must be free of disciplinary proceedings. They will not be allowed to engage in private practice during the contractual period and will only do clinical duties (outpatient, inpatient, and emergency care) and will be exempted from medico-legal, administrative, or post-mortem responsibilities. Recently, posts of specialised doctors were advertised, but only 60 doctors joined. In 2022, the government also tried to fill 634 posts of specialist doctors but did not get a good response. The reason that doctors refrain from joining the state medical services is due to pay disparities, lack of emergency medical staff thus, specialist doctors have to take care of emergencies, and they are also deployed for VVIP duties. This decision of the state health department to hire retired specialists has not gone well with the young doctors, and many of them say they have been awaiting recruitment since November 2022, when the last advertisement for regular posts was issued. Interestingly, 31 specialist doctors who pursued post-graduation under the government quota have exited service without completing the mandatory service period or depositing the stipulated bond amount of Rs 50 lakh. As per rules, after one gets admission under the Punjab Civil Medical Services (PCMS) quota, one has to serve with the state government as one signs a 10-year service bond in exchange for subsidised admission. As four doctors each resigned from Sangrur and Ludhiana, three each from Kapurthala, Mansa, and Faridkot, two each from Mohali, Tarn Taran, and Ropar and one each from Bathinda, Patiala, Fatehgarh Sahib, Nawanshahr, Hoshiarpur, Gurdaspur, Jalandhar and Barnala. They have also not deposited the bond amount they pledged at the time of admission. The health department has directed civil surgeons to initiate recovery proceedings. The civil surgeons have been instructed to contact these doctors immediately and serve them a 21-day notice to deposit the bond, amount and if they fail, disciplinary action will be initiated, and the department has directed that a formal request be made to the Punjab Medical Council or relevant regulatory bodies to cancel their medical registration. Punjab Civil Medical Services Association (PCMSA) president Dr Akhil Sarin said a few months back, 110 specialised doctors joined as part of their bond obligation, and in the coming days a few more are likely to join after the end of the extensions granted to them. Also, walk-in interviews for an additional 160 specialist posts are also in the pipeline. All these steps are effectively aimed at providing specialist services to the poor and underserved. In 2020, the then government stalled career progression of medical officers this was one of the causes why specialised doctors did not opt for government jobs. While lack of security is another issue, he said. ` A few years back their were similar schemes of re-employment of post retirement and few doctors had taken the extensions then, he said.

AAP, BJP hold parallel protests in Jalandhar

ED Raids Seven Locations In Haryana In 'Donkey Route' Human Trafficking Case

According to officials quoted by ANI, the searches, led by EDs Jalandhar Zonal Office, were carried out in the districts of Mansa, Kurukshetra, and Karnal.

ED conducts fresh searches in Punjab, Haryana in 'donkey route' case related to Indian immigrants deported from US

JALANDHAR: The Enforcement Directorate on Friday conducted fresh searches in Punjab and Haryana as part of a money laundering investigation into a 'donkey route' case related to illegal Indian immigrants who were deported by the US this year, official sources said. Raids are being undertaken at seven locations at Mansa in Punjab and Kurukshetra and Karnal in Haryana under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), they said. The latest raids are based on credible inputs gathered durin g the first round of searches conducted on July 9 at 11 locations in these two states, the sources said. Post the July 9 searches, the federal probe agency on Thursday said in a statement that it has recovered 30 original passports and got hold of the names of various agents and immigration agencies running the donkey route business of sending Indians abroad illegally on a large-scale. Inputs gathered shows that human traffickers were used to arrange illegal route resources outside India in connivance with donkers (human trafficking conduits), the sources said. The ED had said it was found that those willing to go to the US were duped by travel agents and middlemen on false promises of sending them through legal channels. However, they were sent to the US through the donkey route, crossing the borders of various countries and illegally negotiating dangerous routes, with the help of 'donkers' and the mafia, it had said. The word donkey, dunkey or dunki refers to the donkey-like long and hard journey undertaken by immigrants to enter countries illegally.

ED raids in Punjab, Haryana in 'donkey route' case related to illegal Indian immigrants deported from US

JALANDHAR: The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday conducted searches in multiple cities of Punjab and Haryana as part of a money laundering investigation into a 'donkey route' case related to illegal Indian immigrants who were deported by the US this year , official sources said. Offices and houses of suspects and agents in at least 11 cities in the two states , Amritsar, Sangrur, Patiala and Moga in Punjab and Ambala, Kurukshetra and Karnal in Haryana are being raided under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the sources said. The money laundering case stems from 17 FIRs registered by Punjab and Haryana police departments against the travel/visa agents and middlemen who cheated various persons willing to go to the US illegally, they said. A number of Indians from these two states and few others were deported onboard US military planes in February this year and the agency later recorded the statements of few deportees. These statements and some linked investigation threw up the names of certain suspects and they are being searched, the sources said. 682 Indians deported from US since January, majority had attempted to enter illegally: MEA The agents used to arget innocent persons who were willing to go abroad and on the false promise of sending them to the US through legal channels and flights they used to charge an amount ranging from Rs 45-50 lakh per candidate. However, the agents used to dupe these people as they were sent through illegal routes (donkey route) by crossing the borders of many countries illegally through dangerous/jungle routes under the influence of 'donkers' and mafias, the sources said. These agents, in collusion with 'donkers' and mafia used to create a hreatening situation for the aspiring travellers and their families that they were forced to cough up more and more money, the sources said.

ED Raids In Punjab, Haryana In Donkey Route Case

Jalandhar, Jul 9: The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday conducted searches in multiple cities of Punjab and Haryana as part of a money laundering investigation into a donkey route case related to illegal Indian immigrants who were deported by the US this year, official sources said. Offices and houses of suspects and agents in at least 11 cities in the two states Amritsar, Sangrur, Patiala and Moga in Punjab and Ambala, Kurukshetra and Karnal in Haryana are being raided under [] The post ED Raids In Punjab, Haryana In Donkey Route Case appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Khalistani terrorist Happy Passia, wanted in 14 grenade attacks across Punjab, likely to be extradited from US

CHANDIGARH: Happy Passia, an alleged mastermind of 14 grenade attacks across Punjab and a wanted notorious gangster-turned-Khalistani terrorist is likely to be extradited from the United States to India. Highly placed sources said that the US authorities have confirmed to the Indian security agencies that the extradition of Happy Passia, whose real name is Harpreet Singh, who is linked to Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) and also has links with Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) of Pakistan has been approved. However, there is no official confirmation in this regard. In January this year, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) put a reward of Rs 5 lakh on Passia in a case of the hand grenade attack in September last year on a house in Sector 10 of Chandigarh by two youths. The attack targeted a retired Superintendent of Police, Jaskirat Singh Chahal, who served as the Station House Officer (SHO) in Nakodar in 1986, during which four sikh protesters were killed in police firing. In 2021, Passia illegally entered the US through the Mexico border with the help of a human trafficking network and continued to coordinate terror activities from there. Earlier in 2020, he had escaped to the UK with the help of a fake identity and stayed there for several months before he entered the US. On April 17 this year, Passia was arrested by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) from Sacramento. As per the FBI, he used burner phones to evade capture. Passia was arrested by the US authorities after the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Punjab Police, who had earlier confirmed that Passia was hiding in the United States. The authorities had also issued a lookout notice and sent legal notices to his residence. Earlier the Punjab Police had submitted a formal request to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) for his extradition as Passia is accused of orchestrating at least 14 grenade attacks across the state targeting police stations, religious places and residences of public figures of which one of senior BJP leader Manoranjan Kalia in Jalandhar. Out of the 16 grenade attacks that took place in the state, his name has cropped up during investigations into at least 14 such attacks. Sources said that Harpreet Singh hails from Passia village in the Amritsar district of Punjab, belongs to an agriculturalist family and is wanted in 17 criminal cases. He was declared an absconder in the case registered on October 1 last year. Since 2023 he is associated with Khalistani militant Harwinder Singh Sandhu alias Rinda, and they have been involved in setting up terror modules in Punjab. He was named in a chargesheet filed before the special NIA court, along with Harwinder Singh Sandhu alias Rinda as Passia had a hand in multiple terror attacks and was wanted in many cases including those registered under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), Arms Act, and Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Last year during the questioning a number of associates of Lakhbir Singh Sandhu alias Landa, a Canada-based Khalistani terrorist and Rinda, NIA found that both the terrorists have stopped working together and Rinda has started working with Passia. His network is suspected of involvement in the murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala in 2022, said sources.

Punjab Congress leaders under vigilance scrutiny fear being targeted by AAP-led govt ahead of 2027 polls

CHANDIGARH: With 19 months left till the 2027 assembly elections, the Punjab Congress leadership is apprehensive that the current AAP-led Punjab government might target party leaders who are facing vigilance inquiries. Such concerns have been raised following the arrest of Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Majithia in a drugs and disproportionate assets case, while former Health Minister and AAP MLA Vijay Singla and his OSD Pradeep Kumar were given a clean chit in a corruption case registered against them in 2022. Sources said that a charge sheet has been filed in cases registered against former Congress MLA Kushaldeep Singh Dhillon and former cabinet minister OP Soni. Other Congress leaders who are facing vigilance inquiries include: Punjab Congress President and Member of Parliament from Ludhiana Amarinder Raja Warring, former Chief Minister and Member of Parliament from Jalandhar Charanjit Singh Channi, former cabinet ministers Sunder Shyam Arora and Vijay Inder Singla, and MLAs Barindemeet Singh Pahra and Pargat Singh. Channi, who himself is under the scrutiny of the vigilance, claimed that those politicians who are vocal against the government are being targeted by the AAP government. They have already been after me for a long time, several party leaders, including Jalandhar (Cantonment) MLA Pargat Singh, were under the lens of the vigilance bureau. After Bikram Majithia, Pargat Singh might be next target of the government, he said. Ludhiana MP Warring said, It would be premature to comment at this moment. On the other hand, Punjab Police has given a clean chit to former Health Minister and AAP MLA Vijay Singla and his OSD Pradeep Kumar in corruption case registered against them in 2022 at Phase 8 Police Station in Mohali. The state police have filed a closure report in a court in Mohali recently, citing that no conclusive evidence was found to proceed against the accused. The court will take up the matter on July 14. While thhe complainant in the case, Rajinder Singh, a government engineer on deputation with Punjab Health System Corporation, has agreed with the closure report. It is worth mentioning here that the complainant had submitted that he was summoned to Punjab Bhawan, and a commission of one per cent was demanded from him. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had dismissed Singla from his cabinet.

Punjab Police arrest travel agent behind fake college offer letter scam

CHANDIGARH: The Punjab Police have arrested the mastermind behind the fake offer letter scam, Brijesh Mishra. The scam lured hundreds of Indian students aspiring to study in Canada. Sources said that on June 24, Mishra was taken into custody after he landed at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. Mishra, who hails from Thalwada in Darbhanga of Bihar, had boarded a flight from Toronto on June 22. Talking with TNIE , Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police of Jalandhar Harinder Singh Gill said, Brijesh Mishra was detained as soon as he landed at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, as a look-out circular (LOC) had been earlier issued against him in connection with cases registered against him. He was then handed over to a team of Jalandhar Police. We took him into custody on June 24, and yesterday (June 25), he was produced in local court in Jalandhar, and we got his seven-day police remand. Now we are questioning him as nine cases were registered against him in 2023 on charges of cheating, forgery and criminal conspiracy in division number 6 police station, he said. Gill further said that he is being questioned about others involved in this racket, how he made these fake offer letters of colleges, how many students were contacted, and how much money he charged the victims. We will also be calling the parents of these students who filed the cases against the accused and record their statements, as well as ask them whether their children have been deported or still in Canada, and if so, doing what, he said. Unregistered agencies offer fake overseas jobs for youngsters in Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh on social media platforms Gill said that during the interrogation, Mishra confessed to having remained in the custody of the Canadian authorities for approximately one and a half years as he was detained. Then, after he was released from detention, he stayed for a few months in Surrey, British Columbia, before returning to India. On June 23, 2023, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) apprehended Mishra while he was trying to sneak into the country illegally. The CBSA conducted a detailed investigation and zeroed in on Brijesh Mishras company Education and Migration, and slapped five charges, including those for counselling misrepresentation, unauthorised representation or advice for consideration, under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. In March 2023, approximately 700 students were issued deportation notices by the CBSA over fraudulent offer letters that had been provided to them by Mishra while processing their study visas. Mishra has been accused of running a fake offer letter racket through his consultancy, Education and Migration Services, based in Jalandhar. He allegedly duped hundreds of students between 2016 and 2020 by issuing forged admission letters of colleges in Canada, as scores of students discovered the fraud only after reaching Canada, where they were denied entry or deported when immigration authorities flagged their documents as fake.

Kashmiri students face travel hardships after evacuation from war-hit Iran

Suhail Bhat SRINAGAR, June 22: Kashmiri students evacuated from war-hit Iran under Operation Sindhu continue to face travel hardships, as yet another bus developed a mechanical fault today, leaving them stranded on Jalandhar-Pathankot highway for over three hours. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp One of the three buses carrying nearly 30 students from Delhi to Kashmir broke down due to a technical snag, causing further distress to the already-exhausted students. A student told Excelsior that the bus developed [] The post Kashmiri students face travel hardships after evacuation from war-hit Iran appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Punjab Police book IAS officer, husband for attempted murder; gunman arrested

CHANDIGARH: Punjab IAS officer Babita Kaler, husband Stephen Kaler, and gunman Shubh Karan Singh have been booked by the Punjab Police on charges of attempt to murder; the gunman has been arrested. As per the complaint given to the police, the gunman shot at and injured the manager of an industrial house following a dispute over the dumping of sand onto a vacant plot adjacent to the Kalers' house in Chhoti Baradari area of Jalandhar. The manager, Harpreet Singh, was shot in the thigh and later admitted to the civil hospital, sources said. On Saturday, a case was registered against the three persons under Sections 109 (attempt to murder), 115(2) (voluntarily causing hurt) and 61(2) (criminal conspiracy) of the BNS and Arms Act. One Lakhbir Singh said, based on the plot owner's direction, the workers had started dumping sand to fill the land. However, the immediate neighbours--the IAS officer and her husband--asked them to stop the work and started misbehaving with the workers. In the scuffle, Kalers gunman opened fire, he alleged. Eyewitnesses alleged that there was an attempt to forcibly stop land filling work and take over the plot. On the other hand, Stephen Kaler denied the allegations. He said that he had gone back inside the house after having a telephonic conversation with the plot owner and requesting the workers to halt construction, but the workers misbehaved with their gunman and tried to overpower him, after which the gunman opened fire to defend himself. We told them to first speak to the actual plot owner. I even helped them contact the owner and went back inside. Meanwhile, they started abusing and attacking the gunman, forcing him to fire in self-defence, he said. When contacted, Jalandhar Police Commissioner Dhanpreet Kaur said that a case has been registered against the IAS officer Babita Kaler, her husband Stephen Kaler, and gunman Shubh Karan Singh. He said that the police are investigating the matter. Babita Kaler is posted as Commissioner of Agriculture at present while her husband, Stephen Kaler, is an industrialist affiliated with the Aam Aadmi Party.

Chandigarh Diary | Punjab CM Mann all praise for sada veer Harbhajan Singh

Former spinner and AAP Rajya Sabha MP Harbhajan Singh got tongues wagging as he recently attended a state-level function in Jalandhars Burlton Park, where Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann and AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal laid the foundation stone for a sports hub. Mann proudly pointed out to Kejriwal on the occasion that Jalandhar, which is often dubbed as the sports capital of India, is Harbhajans hometown. He showered praise on the former cricketer and described him as sada veer. It is great to have Harbhajan with us, as batters from across the world were scared of his spin bowling and aggression, Mann remarked. No cooperation? No business: Punjab to HDFC Bank Citing a lack of cooperation and a failure to carry out certain transactions in a time-bound manner, the Punjab government has de-empanelled HDFC Bank. The order issued by the Director of Punjabs Institutional Finance and Banking has asked all financial commissioners, principal secretaries, administrative secretaries, heads of the departments, divisional commissioners, deputy commissioners and convener of the state-level bankers committee not to conduct any business with the bank. The drastic step has left many in the banking sector disconcerted. Meanwhile, officials of the bank remain tight-lipped. Seven months on, HP Cong unit yet to be reconstituted It has been seven months since the Himachal Pradesh Congress unit was dissolved, and new leaders, including the state and block presidents, are yet to be appointed. The ghost of factionalism seems to be chasing the grand old party. Despite holding several rounds of meetings, the state Congress leaders just cannot see eye to eye. Ministers of the state government have shown reluctance to lead the party into the 2027 Assembly elections, reflecting deep-seated issues in its rank and file. Holding on to power remains a challenge for the grand old party not just in the hill state of Himachal but also in Karnataka and Telangana.

NCP leader Baba Siddique murder mastermind detained by Canadian authorities

MUMBAI : In a major breakthrough in the highprofile murder case of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader and former minister Baba Siddique , Zeeshan Akhtar alias Jassi Purewal , alleged mastermind behind the killing, has been detained by Surrey Police in Canada, according to Mumbai Police sources. Mumbai Police confirmed that Zeeshan Akhtar, a key operative of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, is in custody with Surrey Police. He is accused of coordinating the shooters involved in Siddiques assassination and orchestrating the crime. Investigations indicate that Akhtar escaped India with assistance from Pakistani underworld figure Shehzad Bhatti of the Farooq Khokhar gang. A Mumbai Police source said, Three days ago, we received information about Zeeshan Akhtars detention. We waited for official confirmation, which we have now received. Formalities are underway, and authorities expect to extradite him to Mumbai, where he will stand trial. Baba Siddique was fatally shot on the night of October 12, 2024, outside the office of his son, Zeeshan Siddique, in Bandra, Mumbai. The Lawrence Bishnoi gang claimed responsibility, alleging that Siddique was targeted due to his close ties with Bollywood actor Salman Khan. Subsequent investigations revealed that Zeeshan Akhtar, a native of Jalandhar, Punjab was present at the crime scene and played a central role in planning the murder. He fled India shortly afterward. Lawrence Bishnoi's gang later disowned Akhtar and reportedly issued threats against him. In early 2025, Akhtar released a video acknowledging he was wanted in connection with Siddiques murder and other criminal cases. In that video, he publicly thanked Bhatti, referring to him as a big brother. Born Mohammad Yasin Akhtar, he hails from Jalandhar and has a history of criminal cases, including a 2022 arrest by Punjab Police on unrelated charges. His name emerged prominently in the investigation launched after Siddiques murder. Police allege that Akhtar managed the three shooters, Dharmaraj Kashyap, Gurmel Baljeet Singh, and Shivkumar Gautam and arranged weapons, logistics, and accommodation. The charge sheet indicates he instrumental in targeting Siddique. Akhtar is reportedly a close associate of imprisoned gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. He is said to have formed this connection while in prison, sharing space with shooter Gurmel Singh. The murder plot was reportedly hatched in May 2024, with Akhtar leaving Mumbai a month prior to the attack to avoid suspicion. After his release from prison, Akhtar traveled to Kaithal, Haryana, to coordinate with Gurmel Singh, Kashyap, and Gautam. He facilitated their journey to Mumbai and helped them establish a base before the assassination. Indian authorities are now working closely with Canadian counterparts to expedite extradition proceedings. Given the highprofile nature of the case and its potential national security implications, legal efforts to bring Akhtar back to India are a top priority. Two Baba Siddique murder case accused move plea to retract 'involuntary' confession statements

Espionage case: Punjab YouTuber Jasbir Singh sent to 14-days judicial custody

CHANDIGARH: A Mohali court on Monday sent Punjab YouTuber Jasbir Singh , arrested on espionage charges to fourteen days' judicial custody. Singh alias Jaan Mahal, a resident of Mahlan village in Rupnagar district, was arrested on June 4 and was sent to Ropar Jail from Mohali. He was running a YouTube channel JaanMahal Video with over 11 lakh subscribers, ostensibly posting travel and cooking vlogs. Singh was produced before the court after the completion of the two-day police remand. Speaking to the presspersons, the counsel appearing for Mr Singh said that they will file his bail application. Meanwhile, his female friend, hailing from Jalandhar, was questioned for hours at the State Special Operation Cell (SSOC) of the Punjab Police. According to the police, She has told them that Singh took her to Delhi several times and once accompanied her to an invitation-only Pakistan Day event hosted by the Pakistan High Commission, despite her not having an official invite. Singh allegedly used his close ties with Pakistan operative Ehsan-ur-Rahim alias Danish to secure her entry, according to police sources. The woman also claimed that Singh had been providing her with financial assistance for some time. Her phone and social media accounts are currently being examined as part of the broader investigation into a suspected Pakistan-backed espionage network. According to investigators, Danish had been attempting to lure more young women into the network. Singh is also suspected to have been in contact with another Pakistani Intelligence Operative (PIO), Shakir alias Jutt Randhawa. Jyoti Malhotra's judicial custody extended by another 14 days Meanwhile, a court in Hisar on Monday extended the judicial custody of YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra by another 14 days. The next hearing is scheduled for June 23. Malhotra, who is also under investigation for her alleged links with Pakistani intelligence operatives, was first remanded to judicial custody on May 26. Her lawyer, Kumar Mukesh, confirmed the extension, saying, She joined court proceedings virtually. We will be filing for regular bail soon. Earlier, Hisar police spokesperson Vikas Kumar said that a forensic analysis of Jyotis three mobile phones and a laptop had yielded over 12TB of digital data. The analysis has revealed direct one-on-one chats with four individuals identified as Pakistani intelligence operatives, suspected money trails, and records of VIP treatment received during her trip to Pakistan, he said, adding that the digital evidence is being further examined.

Wheelchair-bound rape survivor moves SC seeking medical help

NEW DELHI: A wheelchair-bound neck down paralysed woman, who was brutally raped, gangraped, tortured and illegally confined for seven-months, has moved the Supreme Court seeking immediate access to medical treatment and rehabilitative support and justice. Senior lawyer Shobha Gupta, representing the petitioner, told this newspaper that the repeated acts of gruesome sexual violence inflicted by the accused on the 34-year-old bedridden neck down disabled survivor is barbaric and inhuman. The petitioner was wheelchair-bound and suffering from partial disability when she came in contact with the accused. The dehumanising sexual slavery and brutality subjected on the petitioner further aggravated her medical condition and she has become paralysed below the neck, with only minor sensation in her fingers. The acts of extreme sexual violence committed on the petitioner by the accused have left her in a state of irreversible physical disability, emotional trauma, and social destitution, said, Gupta, who was representing the petitioner along with other advocates Dhiraj Philip, Namrata Mahapatra and Achalika Ahuja. The petitioner-survivor, has been disowned by both her immediate and extended family, and is wholly without any form of familial support or care. In her plea the woman has requested for urgent medical support as well as directions to the Centre and state govt for rehabilitative support through financial assistance to enable her to live with dignity. On May 23, the HC directed admitting her in the AIIMS, New Delhi, for urgent medical treatment and care. As per the plea, the survivor has been subjected to sexual violence with unspeakable brutality, inhumanity for 7-months and was reduced to an inhumane state by the accused, a 52-year-old online-app cab driver. The accused hails from Jalandhar, Punjab, with known criminal antecedents, and is lodged in Hoshiarpur jail. He first came into contact with her through a cab ride-booking application. Following months of medical negligence, repeated rapes in illegal confinement and abandonment, the Petitioner was rescued in 2023, by One Stop Centre and an FIR was registered against the accused under Section 376 (Rape) of the IPC in Hoshiarpur, Punjab. After the completion of the trial, the accused was convicted by the Fast Track Court, Hoshiarpur in January 2025, and sentenced to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment. The survivor stated that the accused was granted minimum punishment without taking into account the brutality of the crime. The petitioner continues to suffer physically, psychologically, emotionally and socially, while also facing continuous threats. Also in top court Plea against Assam deportation drive A plea has been filed in the SC alleging that the Assam government has reportedly launched a sweeping and indiscriminate drive to detain and deport persons suspected to be foreigners without nationality verifications. It directed Assam to initiate process of deportation of 63 declared foreigners.

Chandigarh Diary | Shub din for Punjab as its puttar takes lead

At 25, Shubman Gill has scripted history by becoming the first India Test captain from Punjab since Bishan Singh Bedi (1976-78). Gill, who is used to seeing fans go gaga over him in the stadium, has now become the cynosure of all eyes in the states political circles. From Punjab Congress President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring to SAD chief Sukhbir Singh Badal, leaders cutting across party lines hailed him as the next big leader in the sport. Heartiest congratulations to all Punjabis on our Punjab Da Puttar @Shubmangill becoming Indias new Test cricket captain! Badal wrote on X. AAP in dock over arrest of its MLA in graft case Things looked up for AAP MLA from Jalandhar (Central) Raman Arora when he first stepped into politics. But in a dramatic fall from grace, he was recently arrested by the Punjab Vigilance Bureau in a corruption case. Far from being embarrassed by the legislators arrest, AAP is seizing the development to score brownie points with voters, suggesting that the party is so upright that it doesnt even spare its own leaders found to be tainted. However, the partys Amritsar (North) MLA, former IPS officer Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh, does not seem to buy it. Singh, who never shies away from pointing fingers at his own party, expressed concerns about Aroras proximity to CM Bhagwant Manns family. Cong legislature party leader not named yet The Congress high command is in no hurry to name Congress Legislature Party (CLP) leader in Haryana. But Haryana Congress chief Udhay Bhan is still loyal to former CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda. As the meeting of the Haryana assembly selection committee was delayed due to non-availability of CLP leader for the selection of the state information commissioner, the BJP-led state government asked Bhan to nominate the seniormost leader to represent the party in the meeting. Bhan nominated Hooda for the meeting. The 3-member committee comprised of Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, Hooda instead of leader of opposition and minister-in-charge. Harpreet Bajwa Our correspondent in Chandigarh hsbajwa73@gmail.com

AISSF president shot dead in Punjab over parking dispute

CHANDIGARH: Parminder Singh Dhingra, president of the All India Sikh Student Federation (AISSF), was today shot dead in Jalandhar in broad daylight following a heated argument with a neighbour reportedly over a car parking dispute in Grover Colony of Jalandhar. Sources said that Dhingra, who is also a lawyer, was shot in the leg and fell down the stairs, suffering a head injury. Meanwhile, eyewitnesses claim he was not taken to the hospital in time, thus resulting in fatal blood loss. When the police arrived, he was still alive after being shot; had he been taken to the hospital immediately, he might have survived, but the police were just mere spectators, alleged the locals. The incident has sparked widespread outrage in legal, social and religious circles as locals accused the police of negligence in handling the aftermath. He is survived by his wife, two daughters, a son, and his elderly parents. Jalandhar Commissioner of Police, Dhanpreet Kaur said that two alleged accused have been detained, and a case is being registered under relevant sections of the law. She further said that the cause of death was not solely the bullet injury; Dhingra also had a fatal head injury after falling from the stairs upon being shot in the leg. She further said that the incident occurred between 1.30 pm and 2 pm, but the police only got to know about it around 3.30 pm, and then a police team was immediately dispatched to the scene of the crime, and forensic experts also reached after shortly to assist with the investigation.

Supreme Court directs urgent medical care for paralysed rape survivor

NEW DELHI: Hearing the plea of paralysed survivor who was brutally gangraped, tortured and illegally confined for seven months, SC on May 23, directed to admit her to the AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences) Trauma Centre, New Delhi, for urgent medical treatment and care. She continues to remain hopeful for justice as she fights for her life. The survivor in her plea, in the top court, has requested for urgent medical support as well as directions to the Centre and State government for rehabilitative support through financial assistance to enable her to live with dignity. Senior lawyer Shobha Gupta representing the survivor, exclusively talking to TNIE , said that the ordeal faced by the the 34-year-old woman due to the repeated acts of gruesome sexual violence, including rape, gangrape, physical abuse and torture in illegal confinement, inflicted by the accused is barbaric and inhuman. The woman was wheelchair bound and suffering from partial disability when the accused came in contact with her. The dehumanising sexual slavery and brutality subjected to the petitioner aggravated her medical condition, and she has become paralysed below the neck, with only minor sensation in her fingers. The acts of extreme sexual violence committed on the petitioner by the accused have left her in a state of irreversible physical disability, emotional trauma, and social destitution, said Gupta, representing the petitioner along with other advocates Dhiraj Philip, Namrata Mahapatra and Achalika Ahuja. The survivor has been disowned by both her immediate and extended family and does not have any form of familial support, care, or protection. The plea stated that the survivor has been subjected to sexual violence with unspeakable brutality, inhumanity for seven months and was reduced to an inhumane state by the accused, a 52-year-old online-app cab driver. The accused hails from Jalandhar, Punjab, with known criminal antecedents, and was presently lodged in Hoshiarpur Jail. He first came into contact with her through a cab ride-booking application. Following this, the accused allegedly began stalking the petitioner over several days, kept her in his illegal captivity away isolated the world and subjected her to continuous and aggravated sexual assault over a period of seven months. Owing to her physical disability, the survivor was rendered helpless and was unable to escape his illegal confinement for seven months. Trapped in an illegal confinement and sexual slavery in a condition of total physical handicap, the survivor endured repeated acts of rape, sodomy and physical torture with no opportunity for escape or any contact with the outside world. The sustained brutality inflicted upon her was both systematic and sadistic, leaving her in a state of extreme physical, emotional and psychological pain, the plea said. It is pertinent to note that after the incident of brutal rape for a continuous period of seven months of illegal confinement, the petitioner's medical condition became severely life threatening. Following months of medical negligence, repeated rapes in illegal confinement and abandonment, the petitioner was rescued in 2023, by One Stop Centre and an FIR was registered against the accused under Section 376 (Rape) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) in Hoshiarpur, Punjab. After the completion of the trial, the accused was convicted by the Fast Track Court, Hoshiarpur in January 2025, and sentenced to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment. The survivor stated that the accused was granted minimum punishment without taking into account the brutality of crime committed on her. The petitioner continues to suffer physically, psychologically, emotionally and socially, while also facing continuous threats. She has also sought intervention from the apex court to allow the transfer of the appeal filed by the accused against the conviction, pending before the High Court of Punjab and Haryana to the HC of Delhi, in the interest of justice and physical state of the petitioner. The act of rape in illegal confinement, particularly of a physically disabled woman, strikes at the core of Article 21 of the Constitution. It is not just a violation of bodily integrity, but also of dignity, privacy, physical and psychological well-being, the plea said. The petitioner was residing in Delhi under the care of a friend who had graciously provided her temporary shelter in the absence of any medical or familial support.

AAP MLA Raman Arora sent to 5-day Vigilance Bureau remand in corruption case; his lawyer calls it 'political vendetta'

Jalandhar Central AAP MLA Raman Arora has been remanded to five days in police custody by the Punjab Vigilance Bureau on corruption charges. Arora's lawyer alleges political vendetta, stating recovered items were declared in his election affidavit. The vigilance team also questioned Arora's PAs and raided the house of a local commission agent.

Punjab Vigilance Bureau arrests AAP MLA Arora on charges of corruption

CHANDIGARH: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA representing Jalandhar (Central) constituency, Raman Arora (54), was arrested on Friday by the Punjab Vigilance Bureau on charges of corruption. The legislator allegedly used former assistant town planner (ATP) of the municipal corporation Sukhdev Vashisht to issue bogus notices to seal buildings and extort money from the public. Vashisht was arrested last week. Arora is the third ruling party MLA to be arrested in a corruption case since AAP came to power in the state in 2022. The sleuths of the Punjab Vigilance Bureau raided the residence of Raman Arora and arrested him on charges of demanding money in exchange for performing official duties at the Municipal Corporation, as well as issuing extortion threats. The security of Arora was already withdrawn on May 12. Sources said that Aroras name cropped up during the interrogation of Vashisht who was arrested for demanding Rs 30,000 on May 14. Vashisht had Aroras patronage. Vashisht apparently threatened owners that he would seal buildings during inspections. He also reportedly claimed that he was not afraid of any potential transfer. During interrogation, Vashisht had reportedly admitted he issued 350 notices to stakeholders from April 2022 to March 2025. He was posted in Jalandhar Central zone one-and-a-half years ago. He served in Jalandhar West zone before that for four years, said an official on condition of anonymity. It is learnt that Vashisht was arrested following complaints from commercial unit owners and others. The complainants had alleged he had been delaying file approvals and extorting money from applicants. Sources said that the officials of the bureau has confiscated files pertaining to permissions given for change of land use, notices issued to commercial and residential units to pay their dues and authorization granted to residential colonies and development of commercial hubs in Jalandhar Central and West assembly constituencies in the past two years. Arora has faced multiple complaints accusing him of accepting bribes from the public. Arora is the third AAP MLA to be arrested by the vigilance bureau in the last three years on corruption charges. His arrest comes exactly three years after the VB arrested former health minister and Mansa MLA Dr Vijay Singla for corruption on May 24, 2022 and then Bathinda Rural AAP MLAAmit Rattan Kotfatta in a corruption case on February 23, 2023. Congress MLA from Bholath, Sukhpal Singh Khaira termed it a latant eyewash and a political gimmick orchestrated by the Mann-led AAP government to mislead the public ahead of the Ludhiana West by-election. Khaira drew parallels to the arrest of former AAP Minister Dr Vijay Singla prior to the Sangrur Lok Sabha by-election in 2022, pointing out that despite serious corruption charges, no charge sheet was filed against Singla. Singla continues to enjoy the full patronage of AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal and the party, proving that such arrests are mere stunts to create a false narrative of accountability, Khaira alleged. Khaira asserted that if a genuine and impartial inquiry were conducted into the activities of AAP MLAs, most of them would have to be arrested, as they are neck-deep in corruption. He accused the Mann government of shielding its leaders while projecting a facade of being anti-corruption to gain electoral mileage. The arrest of Raman Arora is a repeat of the same script played out before the Sangrur by-election. The AAP government is desperate to divert attention from its failures and rampant corruption within its ranks, Khaira alleged.

Probe Agency ED Conducts Raids In Multiple Cities In Money Laundering Case

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday conducted search operations in various cities, including Mumbai, Bengaluru, Jalandhar, Indore and Kolkata, in connection with its probe into alleged money laundering in a firm.

Punjab: Retreat Ceremony For Public Along Pak Border To Resume From May 21

AMRITSAR, May 20: The Border Security Force (BSF) has said the public flag-lowering retreat ceremony at three locations in Punjab along the Pakistan frontier will begin on Wednesday, about two weeks after it was stopped following Operation Sindoor by India in response to the Pahalgam attack. The Jalandhar headquartered Punjab frontier of the force said the ceremony will resume from Tuesday, but it will be open only for media persons. The public can participate from Wednesday, it said, adding the [] The post Punjab: Retreat Ceremony For Public Along Pak Border To Resume From May 21 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Himachal farmers demand ban on Turkish apples

CHANDIGARH: Apple growers of Himachal Pradesh, who contribute around Rs 5,000 crore to the apple economy of the hill state, have demanded that India should stop importing Turkish apples. They also demanded that the import tariff on Washington apples should not be decreased further. The demand came following the discontent among Indians after Turkey expressed open support for Pakistan after 'Operation Sindoor'. Talking to TNIE , Sanyukt Kisan Manch (SKM), Himachal Pradesh, convener Harish Chauhan said that they will be meeting Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on May 20 to discuss the issue. They will be handing him a memorandum for Prime Minister Narendra Modi demanding that the import of Turkish apples should be stopped by the Union government in India. They have also demanded that the import of apples from Iran should not be allowed, and the import tariff on Washington apples should not be decreased further. The Minimum Import Price (IMP) on apples, which were imported from various countries, should be Rs 100 per kilogram. Last year, the union government announced that it would levy Rs 50 per kg IMP on the import of apples from abroad, but that was not implemented. The apple season of Himachal Pradesh will start from mid-July, and it is expected that this year the apple crop will almost be the same as last year (2.18 crore boxes), said Harish Chauhan. He also said that the apple growers are badly impacted because of the import of apples from Turkey and Iran. Per kg of apple from Turkey costs between Rs 60 to Rs 65, and that from Iran costs anywhere between Rs 38 to Rs 40 per kg. While our (Himachal Pradesh) cost of production is approximately Rs 40 per kg and we sell our best apple in the running market anywhere approximately between Rs 50 to Rs 60 per kg, he said. Chauhan further said that 1.10 metric tons of apples were imported from Turkey in 2022, and then it went up to 1.29 metric tons in 2023, but in 2024, the imports from Turkey fell to 1.11 lakh metric tons. While 79,000 metric tons of apples were imported from Iran in 2022 and 1.16 lakh MT in 2023, the imports fell to 1.07 lakh MT in 2024, he said, quoting data from DGCIS. Meanwhile, a delegation of the Himalayan Apple Growers Society met Union Commerce and Industries Minister, Piyush Goyal. Citing losses to the apple farmers of the state due to cheap and subsidised imports, the delegation sought an immediate ban on the import of apples from Turkey. A member of the delegation, Chetan Singh Bragta, who is also a BJP leader, said that demanding a ban on the import of apples from Turkey is not just a trade decision but a matter of national pride and protection of apple growers, sending a strong message to countries supporting terrorism. The hoteliers of Manali have demanded the removal of Turkish firm Yksel Proje from the Bilaspur-Manali-Leh railway survey, citing national security concerns and ecological threats to the fragile mountain region. Talking to the media, Ved Ram Thakur, Chief Adviser to the Hotel Association of Manali, said that the public anger was growing against Turkey, and thus, the involvement of the Turkish company with several village panchayats also voiced opposition to the ongoing survey. On the other hand, Lovely Professional University (LPU) a private university near Jalandhar in Punjab, has terminated all its Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with institutions in Trkiye and Azerbaijan. The university has formally ended six academic collaborations, citing recent geopolitical developments that it considers to be against Indias national interest. The development follows similar decisions taken by other prominent Indian universities. Earlier this week, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) suspended its MoU with Inonu University, citing national security considerations.

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

Sudanese student stabbed to death, another injured near Punjab university, six who fled to Himachal arrested

CHANDIGARH: A 25-year-old Sudanese student was stabbed to death and another injured during a violent altercation in a residential area near Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Phagwara early on Thursday. All six accused have been apprehended. The incident took place shortly before 4 am in the Green Valley locality near Law Gate, in Maheru village, a residential hub for international students, mainly those from African nations. According to the FIR registered at Satnampura Police Station, based on the statement of the injured student Ahmed Mohammad Nour Ahmed Hussen, he and Mohammad Wada Bala Yousuf Ahmed were returning from morning prayers, accompanied by two Sudanese girl students, when they were stopped by a group of youths. He alleged that they were under the influence of alcohol and started harassing the girls and demanded their phone numbers. I tried to stop them, but they started fighting with us. Two of them had knives, and they started stabbing both of us on the left side of the chest, he said in his statement to the police. He stated that, upon hearing their cries for help, a man identified as Prabhat Dubey intervened, causing the attackers to run away. Dubey then rushed them to Johal Hospital in Jalandhar, where doctors declared Mohammad Wada Bala Yousuf Ahmed dead. In his complaint, Nour named six assailants, who were identified as Abdul Ahad of Karnataka; Kunwar Amar Partap Singh, Aditya Garg, Mohammed Shoaib, Sushank Shaggy and Yash Vardhan Rajput, all of them living in PGs at Maheru Colony. A case has been registered under Sections 109 (common intention), 103(1) (murder), 190 (voluntarily causing hurt), and 191(3) (attempt to murder) of BNS. Senior Superintendent of Police Gaurav Toora said all six accused have been apprehended after being tracked down in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh. This was a heinous crime. We apprehended them by using technical and human surveillance, he said. A police official said that the Sudan embassy and the family of the deceased were being informed.

India bypassed Chinese air defence systems, completed Operation Sindoor in 23 minutes

NEW DELHI: In an assertion of the echnological edge of the Indian Armed Forces during Operation Sindoor , supported by indigenous equipment, the government on Wednesday said that Chinese-supplied systems were hoodwinked and the mission was wrapped up in just 23 minutes. The government said, The Indian Air Force bypassed and jammed Pakistan's Chinese-supplied air defence systems, completing the mission in just 23 minutes, demonstrating India's technological edge. Pakistan has a significant inventory of Chinese-origin weapons and systems, including air defence systems, J-10 and JF-17 fighters, submarines, and warships. Operation Sindoor, according to the government, was a calibrated military response to an evolving pattern of asymmetric warfare -- one that increasingly targets unarmed civilians alongside military personnel. On 22 April, terrorists attacked tourists in Pahalgam , killing 26 unarmed people. India launched a joint tri-services operation on May 7, in which the Army, Air Force and Navy coordinated to destroy terrorist infrastructure without crossing the Line of Control or international boundary. Beyond tactical precision, what stood out was the seamless integration of indigenous hi-tech systems into national defence, said the government. Whether in drone warfare, layered air defence, or electronic warfare, Operation Sindoor marks a milestone in India's journey towards technological self-reliance in military operations, it said. How BrahMos missile strikes forced Pakistan to agree to a ceasefire Air defence capabilities: Tech as the first line of protection On the night of 78 May 2025, Pakistan attempted to engage multiple military targets in northern and western India -- including Awantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bhatinda, Chandigarh, Nal, Phalodi, Uttarlai, and Bhuj -- using drones and missiles. These were neutralised by the Integrated Counter-UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems) Grid and Air Defence systems. Air Defence systems detect, track, and neutralise threats using a network of radars, control centres, artillery, and both aircraft- and ground-based missiles. On the morning of 8 May, the Indian Armed Forces targeted air defence radars and systems at multiple locations in Pakistan. An air defence system at Lahore was neutralised. Battle-proven air defence systems like the Pechora, OSA-AK and LLAD (low-level air defence) guns, along with indigenous systems such as Akash, demonstrated stellar performance. The Akash system Akash is a short-range surface-to-air missile system designed to protect vulnerable areas and points from air attacks. It can simultaneously engage multiple targets in group or autonomous mode and includes built-in Electronic Counter-Counter Measures (ECCM). The entire system is configured on mobile platforms. Indias air defence umbrella, comprising assets from the Army, Navy, and primarily the Air Force, operated with exceptional synergy. This created an impenetrable shield that foiled multiple Pakistani attempts to retaliate. The Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) of the Indian Air Force unified these elements, providing net-centric operational capability vital for modern warfare. Why Pakistan could never have afforded a war with India Offensive actions with pinpoint accuracy Indias offensive strikes targeted key Pakistani air bases -- Noor Khan and Rahimyar Khan -- with surgical precision. Loitering munitions were used to devastating effect, destroying high-value targets such as enemy radar and missile systems. Loitering munitions, also known as suicide drones or kamikaze drones, are weapons systems that hover or circle a target area before attacking. All strikes were executed without the loss of Indian assets. The use of modern indigenous technology, from long-range drones to guided munitions, made these strikes highly effective and politically calibrated. Evidence of neutralised threats Operation Sindoor also produced tangible evidence of neutralised hostile technologies. Recovered debris included fragments of Chinese-origin PL-15 missiles, Turkish-origin UAVs named Yiha or Yeehaw, long-range rockets, quadcopters, and commercial drones. Despite Pakistans use of advanced foreign-supplied weaponry, India's indigenous air defence and electronic warfare systems proved superior. Indias multi-tier defence network successfully prevented Pakistani Air Force attacks on airfields and logistical installations during the night of 910 May, the government said. ISROs strategic role ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) also contributed significantly. At an event on 11 May, ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan stated that at least 10 satellites are continuously operating round the clock for strategic purposes, ensuring national security. He noted that India must monitor its 7,000 km coastline and the entire northern region using satellite and drone technology. The making of a Saturday ceasefire: How India, Pakistan pulled back from the brink Indigenous defence industry rising Indias drone industry is on the rise, with the domestic drone market projected to reach USD 11 billion by 2030 - accounting for 12.2 per cent of the global market. This growth is attributed to years of local R&D and policy reform. Since 2021, the ban on imported drones and the introduction of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme have spurred rapid innovation. On Wednesday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced that defence exports reached Rs 23,600 crore in FY 202425, up from Rs 21,083 crore the previous year. The government's goal is to raise this figure to Rs 50,000 crore by 2029 and make India the worlds largest defence exporter by 2047. According to the government, Operation Sindoor is not just a story of tactical successit is a validation of Indias defence indigenisation policies. Nuclear threat and more: Pakistan's old ruse meets India's new resolve in path to ceasefire

Bharat Ke Taraf Nazar Uthane Ka Ek Hi AnjamTabahi: PM Modis Stern Warning To Terror Elements

Jalandhar, May 13: In a resolute and fiery address to Air Force soldiers at Adampur air base, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent a clear and uncompromising message to those who threaten Indias sovereignty and security. Bharat ke taraf nazar uthane ke liye ek hi anjam haitabahi (There is only one answer to raising eyes towards Indiadestruction), PM Modi declared, reinforcing the nations zero-tolerance stance on terrorism and cross-border aggression. Referring to Operation Sindoor, the Prime Minister highlighted the bravery of [] The post Bharat Ke Taraf Nazar Uthane Ka Ek Hi AnjamTabahi: PM Modis Stern Warning To Terror Elements appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

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.

Morning Digest: India wont bend to Pakistans nuclear blackmail, says Modi; Drones observed along IB in Jammus Samba, Punjabs Jalandhar, and more

Here is a select list of stories to start the day

Drones Observed Along IB In Jammus Samba, Punjabs Jalandhar; Officials Say Situation Calm Now

Jammu/Chandigarh, May 12: Drone activity was observed for a few hours late on Monday along the International Border in Jammus Samba district as well as Punjabs Jalandhar district. However, the army said late in the night that the situation was calm and under control. No enemy drones are being reported at present. Earlier, the army had said security forces were engaging the suspected drones in Samba district. The drone activity along the border came hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modis [] The post Drones Observed Along IB In Jammus Samba, Punjabs Jalandhar; Officials Say Situation Calm Now appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

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.

Shortly after PM Modis address, drones sighted in J&K, Punjab

Shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modis warning to Pakistan that India will not tolerate terror in any form, reports of Pakistan military drones hovering over Jammu and Kashmirs Samba and Punjabs Jalandhar districts emerged on Monday, May 12. Visuals from the Samba district showed red trails in the sky and sounds of explosions, as Indias 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 .

Calm prevails in Punjab after understanding between India, Pakistan to stop military actions

All is well here in Jalandhar. According to the information received, there is nothing to worry and work may resume as usual. Forces are on a constant vigil, Jalandhar Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Aggarwal said.

Calm Prevails In Punjab After Understanding Between India, Pak To Stop Military Actions

Chandigarh, May 11: Calm prevailed in Punjab, especially in the border areas of the state, on Sunday morning, following an understanding between India and Pakistan to stop all firings and military actions on land, air and sea. Authorities have asked people to resume their normal activities and maintain calm. At around 8:30 am, the district administration in Amritsar asked people to resume their normal routine. The Jalandhar district administration also said there was nothing to worry and work may resume [] The post Calm Prevails In Punjab After Understanding Between India, Pak To Stop Military Actions appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Eight Telangana Natives Safely Return from J&K

Eight Telangana natives, including students from a university in Jalandhar, safely reached Telangana Bhavan in New Delhi on Saturday after being stranded in Jammu and Kashmir due to escalating tensions along the Indo-Pak border.

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

PM Modi chairs high-level meeting with defence, security officials

NEW DELHI: Amid continuing military standoff between India and Pakistan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for the second consecutive day, chaired a high-level meeting on Saturday with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Anil Chauhan, National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval, the chiefs of the armed forces and other officials. The Prime Minister was reportedly briefed on the latest developments regarding Operation Sindoor and how the Indian armed forces are successfully foiling Pakistans attempts to target Indian locations using drones and other projectiles. PM Modi had also chaired a high-level meeting on Friday evening at his residence with the same set of officials and the defence minister to review the current situation. Sources indicated that the Prime Minister held discussions on every aspect of the situation, including reports of Pakistans armed forces mobilising towards Indias western border amid heightened tensions. The chiefs of the Armys three services are said to have provided detailed briefings and discussed future strategy. Earlier in the day, prior to the meeting with the Prime Minister, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan met Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to apprise him of the current scenario and reportedly discussed key issues, including the emerging situation along the LoC. India hits three Pakistan airbases in retaliatory strikes Sources said the CDS may have reviewed the progress of Operation Sindoor and Indias retaliatory measures against Pakistans provocations through drone and missile attacks, which Indian army units have successfully neutralised. On Saturday morning, the Indian Army stated, Pakistan's blatant escalation with drone strikes and other munitions continues along our western borders. The military confrontation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours has intensified over the past few days, with both military and civil authorities in India remaining on high alert. On Friday, Rajnath Singh conducted a comprehensive review of the security scenario with the top military leadership, a day after Indian forces repelled Pakistani attempts to target military installations. G7 countries urge India, Pakistan to de-escalate situation The meeting was attended by Chief of Defence Staff Gen Chauhan, Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi, IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, and Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. Meanwhile at a press briefing on Saturday , Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, joined by Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, stated, The Pakistan military is observed to be moving their troops to the border areas. She noted that Pakistan had launched a high-speed missile into Punjab and also targeted medical facilities in Srinagar, Avantipura, and Udhampur. She added that a befitting reply had been given to Pakistani actions. Meanwhile, NSA Ajit Doval visited Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his residence on Saturday. Missile debris found in Haryana's Sirsa, Punjab's Jalandhar; tension prevails in border districts

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 .

Unidentified object lands near Jalandhar; 1 hurt

Local residents said a migrant labourer was injured in the incident, while a few houses in the area also sustained damage. Parts of the unidentified object were lying in the area, they said.

India-Pakistan conflict: Projectile debris found in Haryana's Sirsa

Amid escalating India-Pakistan tensions, a projectile fragment was found in Haryana, coinciding with a loud explosion reported in Jammu and Kashmir. Authorities enforced blackouts in Akhnoor and Jalandhar following reports of explosions, sirens, and drone sightings.

India-Pakistan News LIVE Updates: Tensions Mount On Friday, Indian Army To Hold Media Briefing On Saturday

India-Pakistan News Live: G7 Condemns Pahalgam Attack, Urges Immediate De-escalation The G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, along with the High Representative of the European Union, have condemned the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam. The joint statement on Friday expressed concern over rising tensions and urged both India and Pakistan to exercise maximum restraint. The ministers warned that further military escalation could seriously impact regional stability and expressed concern for the safety of civilians on both sides. The G7 called for immediate de-escalation and encouraged both countries to engage in direct dialogue. The group said it continues to monitor the situation and supports a diplomaticresolution. India-Pakistan News Live: What We Know From Friday Overnight Developments So Far Pakistan resumed ceasefire violations along the Line of Control in the Uri sector of Jammu and Kashmir. Gunfire and explosions were reported overnight. Multiple explosions were heard in Jammu. Authorities enforced a blackout across the city. NDTV reported that sirens were also sounded in Srinagar. Explosions were reported in Samba district. ANI stated that Indian air defence systems intercepted Pakistani drones during the blackout. Blackouts were enforced in Srinagar and Udhampur districts of Jammu and Kashmir. Sirens were heard across both areas, ANI reported. Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a high-level security meeting at his residence on Friday. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and the chiefs of the armed forces were present. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal held a review meeting in Mumbai on Friday. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways confirmed the session. Authorities enforced blackouts in multiple border regions. In Haryana, Panchkula district was affected. In Punjab, blackouts were implemented in Firozpur and Jalandhar. In Rajasthan, Jaisalmer was placed under blackout. Gujarat Chief Ministers Office reported blackouts in all villages of Suigam and Vav talukas in Banaskantha district, villages in Santalpur taluka in Patan district, and the entire Kachchh district. The Airports Authority of India and other aviation bodies issued NOTAMs announcing the temporary closure of 32 airports in northern and western India. The suspension of civil flight operations began on May 9 and remains in place until 05:29 IST on May 15. Air Traffic Service routes in the Delhi and Mumbai Flight Information Regions have also been temporarily closed due to operational reasons. India raised concerns over the Pakistani militarys role in the countrys economy. A statement said that Pakistans army continues to influence economic policy despite the presence of a civilian government. The International Monetary Fund approved a $1 billion loan for Pakistan as part of its ongoing support programme. India-Pakistan News Live Hello and welcome to our live coverage of the India-Pakistan conflict. Tensions between India and Pakistan remained high for the third day on Friday following a series of cross-border strikes and retaliatory attacks. Drone intrusions were reported on Friday night across all Indian border states, from Jammu and Kashmir to Gujarat. Indian armed forces responded using air defence systems to intercept the aerial threats. In Punjabs Ferozepur district, three civilians were injured after a drone strike in a residential area. The Indian Armed Forces remain on high alert. Counter-drone systems are actively tracking and neutralising such threats, and the situation is being closely monitored, according to Indian Army sources. India had conducted Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and areas under its administration in Kashmir. These strikes followed the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir, in which 26 people were killed. Catch all the updates that happened on Friday here . . Read more on Nation by NDTV Profit.

India deployed Barak-8 missiles, S-400 systems, Akash missiles to thwart Pak attempts to hit Indian cities

New Delhi, May 9: India deployed Barak-8 missiles, S-400 Triumph air defence systems, Akash surface-to-air missiles and indigenously developed anti-drone equipment in thwarting Pakistans attempts to hit 15 Indian cities on Wednesday night, official sources said on Friday. Pakistani military attempted to target Awantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bhatinda, Chandigarh, Nal, [] The post India deployed Barak-8 missiles, S-400 systems, Akash missiles to thwart Pak attempts to hit Indian cities appeared first on Northlines .

Rajnath Singh reviews security situation with CDS, three service chiefs

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a high-level meeting on Friday to review the national security situation with top military officials, following a series of attempted attacks by Pakistan on Indian military installations . The meeting included Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, and Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi. They carried out a detailed assessment of the evolving security environment. The review came just a day after Indian forces successfully repelled multiple Pakistani attempts to strike key military stations using missiles and drones. Targets included locations in Jammu, Pathankot, Udhampur, and several other strategic areas. Tensions soar in Jammu & Kashmir after Pak's failed drone attack, heavy shelling; woman killed, four injured Officials confirmed that Indian armed forces effectively intercepted the incoming threats, neutralising drones and missiles launched by Pakistan. India is fully prepared to defend its sovereignty and ensure the safety of its people, the Defence Ministry said in a statement. This latest wave of aggression from Pakistan followed a similar failed attempt less than 24 hours earlier. On Thursday, the Defence Ministry revealed that Indian forces had foiled attacks on military installations in 15 cities across northern and western India. The locations targeted in that attempt included Awantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bhatinda, Chandigarh, Nal, Phalodi, Uttarlai, and Bhuj.

X's Global Affairs account temporarily withheld in India amid government crackdown on social media

NEW DELHI: Hours after the Elon Musk-owned social media intermediary X stated that it had started blocking accounts in response to directives from the Indian government, the Global Government Affairs account of X (formerly Twitter) was temporarily withheld in India. When attempting to access the '@GlobalAffairs' account, a message appeared on screen stating, Account has been withheld in India in response to a legal demand. In compliance with executive orders from the Indian government, X began blocking over 8,000 accounts in India on Thursday. The platform took action following a government warning that non-compliance could result in substantial fines and imprisonment of the companys local employees. In a post on X late Thursday evening, the Global Government Affairs team confirmed that, following the orders, it had commenced restricting access to specified accounts within India. However, it also expressed its reservations. X begins blocking of 8,000 accounts in India after Centre warns of penalties To comply with the orders, we will withhold the specified accounts in India alone, the company stated. X has received executive orders from the Indian government requiring X to block over 8,000 accounts in India, with potential penalties including significant fines and imprisonment of the companys local employees. The orders include demands to block access in India to accounts belonging to international news organisations and prominent X users. We have begun that process. However, we disagree with the Indian governments demands, the post read. The '@GlobalAffairs' account is now accessible once again in India. There was no immediate response from the government. The Centre frequently flags social media accounts to X that are allegedly engaged in spreading fake news, misinformation, and anti-India propaganda. Following ' Operation Sindoor ', the government has actively monitored social media platforms to identify users disseminating fabricated stories and false reports. A list of such accounts is then forwarded to the relevant intermediaries. The company further stated that blocking entire accounts is not only unnecessary but also amounts to censorship of both existing and future content, contradicting the fundamental right to free speech. It also claimed that the Indian government had not specified which particular posts from the flagged accounts were in violation of local laws. Explaining its decision to share details of the governments directives publicly on X, the company stated that transparency is vital. Lack of disclosure discourages accountability and can contribute to arbitrary decision-making, it said. Due to legal restrictions, we are unable to publish the executive orders at this time. X is exploring all possible legal avenues available to the company. Unlike users located in India, X is restricted by Indian law in its ability to bring legal challenges against these executive orders. However, we encourage all users who are impacted by these blocking orders to seek appropriate relief, the post further stated. According to the statement, the company has notified affected users in accordance with its policies. Affected users may also contact the Indian government at [cyberlaw@meity.gov.in](mailto:cyberlaw@meity.gov.in), it added. The '@GlobalAffairs' account is now accessible once again in India. Government debunks social media claims of attacks in Rajouri, Jalandhar as fake news

Air raid sirens in Chandigarh, residents urged to stay indoors; Mohali, Patiala issue alerts

The Chandigarh administration sounded an air raid siren on Friday, urging residents to stay indoors, as tensions between India and Pakistan escalated. The alert was lifted about an hour later. 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, the administration said in an official statement. *ALERT* An Air warning has been received from Air force station of possible attack. Sirens are being sounded. All are advised to remain indoors and away from balconies. DC Chandigarh Chandigarh Admn (@chandigarh_admn) May 9, 2025 Chandigarh serves as the shared capital of Punjab and Haryana. Authorities in neighbouring districts also took precautionary measures. The Panchkula district administration sounded a similar siren and advised people to remain indoors. Meanwhile, officials in Punjab's Mohali district, which borders Chandigarh, issued an alert for nearby residents. There is an alert in some areas of Chandigarh. We are advising Mohali residents in the bordering sectors to remain indoors and away from windows and glass panes, the Mohali administration said in a message. There is an alert in some areas of UT Chandigarh. We are advising Mohali residents in bordering sectors as well to remain indoors and away from windows and glass panes. Specifically sectors 45-47. Mohali Administration DC Mohali (@dcmohali) May 9, 2025 Further south, the Patiala district administration also urged caution. Please avoid stepping out unless it is absolutely necessary. All educational institutions in the district are closed until further notice. Residents are strongly advised to stay indoors and away from balconies, rooftops, and open areas, its advisory stated, asking the public to contact the control room in case of an emergency. A similar air siren was sounded in Chandigarh on Thursday night as India swiftly thwarted Pakistan's fresh attempts to strike military sites with drones and missiles, including in Jammu, Pathankot and Udhampur, after foiling its attempts to target military installations in 15 cities in the northern and western parts of the country. According to the defence ministry, the Pakistani military on Thursday night attempted to target Awantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bathinda, Chandigarh, Nal, Phalodi, Uttarlai and Bhuj. The renewed attempts by the Pakistani forces came after the Indian armed forces on Wednesday carried out precise missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Pakistan under 'Operation Sindoor' in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. Punjab orders closure of all schools, colleges for next three days amid rising border tensions

Government debunks social media claims of attacks in Rajouri, Jalandhar as fake news

The Indian government on Friday refuted widespread claims circulating on social media regarding a suicide attack on an Army brigade in Jammu and Kashmirs Rajouri and a drone strike in Punjabs Jalandhar, labelling them as fake news. According to the Press Information Bureaus (PIB) Fact Check Unit, there was no fidayeen or suicide attack on any Army cantonment in Jammu and Kashmir. Additionally, a viral video suggesting a drone attack in Jalandhar was confirmed to actually show a farm fire. This was verified by the district collector of Jalandhar, who classified the claim as disinformation. Drone Attack in Jalandhar This drone strike video from #Jalandhar is widely circulating on social media #PIBFactCheck * This is an unrelated video of a farm fire. The video has the time 7:39 PM, while the drone attack began later. * Do not share this video. See the pic.twitter.com/IRBjq2KOTQ PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) May 8, 2025 Between 10:00 p.m. on May 8 and 6:30 a.m. on May 9, the PIB fact-checked seven videos, compiling a list of each along with corresponding links. Among these was an old video falsely shared as footage of a missile attack by Pakistan on India, which was in fact from the 2020 Beirut explosion. In another instance, a video purporting the destruction of an Indian Army post by Pakistani forces was proven to be fabricated. The PIB clarified that no such unit as the 20 Raj Battalion, mentioned in the video, exists within the Indian Army. The PIB further highlighted a coordinated disinformation campaign allegedly originating from several social media accounts and mainstream media outlets in Pakistan, aimed at inciting fear among Indian citizens. Other misinformation exposed by the Fact Check Unit includes: A 2021 video of an oil tanker explosion falsely portrayed as an attack on Gujarats Hazira Port. A fake letter attributed to a fictitious Chief of Army Staff, Gen V K Narayan. A viral video claiming the Indian military launched strikes from its Ambala airbase, which was debunked with reference to an official Ministry of Defence statement. (With inputs from PTI) Akhilesh Yadav urges calm, cautions against fake news amid India-Pakistan tension

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

Govt debunks claims of suicide attack on Army brigade in Rajouri, other disinformation

The government has debunked several false claims circulating on social media, including a supposed suicide attack on an Army brigade in Rajouri and a drone attack in Jalandhar. The PIB's Fact Check Unit revealed these videos and letters to be fabricated, part of a coordinated disinformation campaign aimed at instilling fear.

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 .

PIB Fact-Checks Jalandhar Drone Strike Video, Pakistan's 'Missile Attack On India' & Strike On Hazira Port Clips

PIB urged citizens to exercise caution and rely only on official sources for accurate information.

Blackout enforced in Punjab districts; drones neutralised in Jalandhar

In Jalandhar, some drones were spotted that neutralised at around 11.20 p.m. by security forces, as per official sources

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

All drones neutralised in Jalandhar as Pakistan attacks Indian city

All drones neutralised in Jalandhar as Pakistan attacks Indian city

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.