Samples of Methamphetamine smuggled into Punjab from Pakistan

CHANDIGARH: In a new 'one-plus-one' scheme, free samples of Methamphetamine also known as 'ICE' or 'Crystal meth', is being packaged with Heroin by smugglers crossing into Punjab from Pakistan. Sources said the state police last year alone seized a record 22 kg of ICE as compared to 2 kg seized in 2023 an increase of 11 times. In the last about a week another 2 kg of ICE has been seized in a special anti-drug operation. In May last year Amritsar Rural Police arrested two drug smugglers and seized 3 Kg Heroin and 1 Kg ICE. In the preliminary investigations was was reveal that the arrested accused were in touch with Pakistani smuggler Dogar Rajput. Also last year a case was registered by the Jalandhar Rural police in which Ice drug was seized from Harpreet Singh, brother of Khadoor Sahib MP and pro-Khalistan leader Amritpal Singh, and his accomplice Lovepreet Singh. In 2022, the special task force (STF) had recovered 20-kg Ice drug in Ludhiana, but senior STF officials consider it an isolated case that was meant to be delivered to other states. An official privy to this development said that the smugglers from across the border are sending ICE free of cost to enable local smugglers make money by selling it and at the same time create a market of this form of drug so that its demand may rise. He further added that ICE is significantly cheaper in the international market as it costs about one-tenth the price of heroin besides its dosage is significantly small. Numerous instances have documented by the authorities where ICE was sent via drones alongside heroin shipments to Punjab. The arrested smugglers reportedly told the officials during their questioning that ICE was being distributed free of cost. A police official claimed, a Pakistan-based drug lord Haji Salim also known as Haji Baloch whos considered one of the worlds biggest smuggler is reportedly behind the large-scale supply of ICE. He operates a global network and is now shifting focus to ICE produced in Afghanistan. Police sources claimed that one of the reasons behind the rise in smuggling of ICE is the decrease in supply of heroin to Pakistan smugglers from Afghanistan because of the Taliban-led governments control over opium cultivation. But the growth of ephedra plant remains unchecked despite the ban by Taliban on opium cultivation since 2021. Thus the supply of heroin which is chemically derived from opium has been significantly impacted by the opium ban. There has been a 70 per cent reduction in opium cultivation and smugglers have been relying on existing stock. An official further added that this supply of ICE is sourced from Afghanistan and is derived from ephedra plant, which grows wild in that region. This drug chemically known as methamphetamine is produced in chemical factories. This Afghan-made ICE is cheaper and accessible now, becoming a challenge for law enforcement agencies to curb its spread. At present, there are very few users of ICE in the state. The idea is to set up a smuggling network and market in Punjab so that they continue with their nefarious design. It is a serious cause of concern for all of us, said a police officer on condition of anonymity. While the experts argue that ICE is a stronger and more addictive substance than heroin and is the most addictive drug in the world as it is said to be three times more powerful than cocaine.

3 alleged BKI operatives held, Punjab DGP claims targeted killing averted

Counter-Intelligence Jalandhar arrested three members of a terror module, avoiding a planned killing. They seized four pistols, magazines, and cartridges. The suspects were linked to a USA-based gangster and a Pakistan-based terrorist. They were motivating local youth for anti-national activities. One of the accused had a prior murder conviction.

Punjab police arrest three operatives of Khalistani militant outfit

CHANDIGARH: Three operatives of Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), a Khalistani militant organisation, were on Friday arrested by the Punjab police. Four pistols and ammunition were recovered from them. Director General of Police , Punjab Gaurav Yadav said that the Counter Intelligence unit of Jalandhar arrested Jagroop Singh, Sukhjit Singh, and Navpreet Singh alias Nav and seized four pistols including two sophisticated pistols .30 bore PX5 Storm (Bretta) pistol and 9MM Glock pistol and two country-made pistols .30 bore and .32 bore along with four magazines and 22 cartridges from them. Yadav said that preliminary investigations revealed that the module was being handled by USA-based Gangster Gurpreet Singh alias Gopi Nawashehria, who is a close aide of Pakistan-based terrorist Harwinder Singh Rinda and was working in connivance with him. The probe has also revealed that Gangster Gopi Nawashehria with the help of his Greece-based associate Laadi Bakapuria was motivating youth to carry-out anti-national activities in the state, he added. He said that further investigations are underway to trace backward and forward linkages in this case to dismantle the whole network. Sharing operation details, Assistant Inspector of Police Counter Intelligence) Jalandhar Navjot Singh Mahal said that following reliable inputs, the militants were arrested while they were waiting for their other associate in an Alto car near Underbridge at Suriya Enclave in Jalandhar. Navjor Singh Mahal said that Jagroop Singh is a habitual criminal and earlier, he had been sentenced three years imprisonment in a murder case in Amritsar. A case has been registered under sections 113(1) and 113(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and sections 25 and 25 (1B) (A) of the Arms Act at Police Station State Special Operation Cell (SSOC), Amritsar.

Punjab: Police foil target-killing plot, arrest 3 linked to BKI

Chandigarh, Mar 7: In a major breakthrough, Counter Intelligence, Jalandhar on Friday foiled a target killing plot in Punjab by arresting three members of a Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) backed terror module. DGP Yadav said that the preliminary investigations reveal the module was handled by USA-based Gangster Gurpreet Singh alias Gopi Nawashehria, a close [] The post Punjab: Police foil target-killing plot, arrest 3 linked to BKI appeared first on Northlines .

Punjab Police foil target-killing plot, arrest 3 linked to BKI-backed module

Punjab Police's Counter Intelligence in Jalandhar thwarted a major target killing plot by Babbar Khalsa International, arresting three module members and seizing four sophisticated weapons with ammunition. The terror module, allegedly handled by USA-based gangster Gurpreet Singh and his Greece-based associate, Laadi Bakapuria, had links to Pakistan's ISI.

ED issues summons to illegal immigrants deported from United States

CHANDIGARH: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued summons to 11 illegal immigrants recently deported from the United States (US) as part of an investigation targeting travel agents involved in facilitating illegal immigration through the so-called Dunki Route. Sources revealed that on Tuesday, the ED sent summons to 11 illegal immigrants who were deported from the US. Among them, at least one is from Haryana, and others are from Punjab. These deportees have been instructed to appear at the ED's Jalandhar office on different dates. The ED has initiated an investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) to trace the proceeds of crime. According to sources, the ED had initially analysed 15 cases, and managedto obtain details and addresses of 11 deportees. So far, the Punjab Police has registered 15 cases against travel agents based on complaints from the deportees after their debriefing. However, the ED has not yet officially requested details from the police, sources said. The Dunki Route is a well-organized network operated by agents and touts in multiple countries. This route allows illegal immigrants to travel through air routes, forests, and rivers to reach Mexico, from where they cross into the US. Further, sources highlighted that preliminary data collected by state government officials after questioning the deportees at Amritsar International Airport shows that more than Rs 44 crore was paid to travel agents. On average, each person spent between Rs 40 to Rs 50 lakh to reach the US illegally via the Dunki Route. US deportation: Punjab police arrests travel agent in case related to illegal migration A total of 345 illegal immigrants have been deported from the US so far. Among these, 131 deportees belong to Punjab and arrived in four batches after the US began mass deportations of illegal immigrants, following Donald Trumps presidency, which began on January 20. The first flight from the US, carrying 104 illegal immigrants , landed at Amritsar International Airport on February 5, with 31 of them from Punjab. The second flight landed on February 15 with 116 deportees, including 65 from Punjab. On February 16 , the third flight arrived with 112 deportees, 31 of whom were from Punjab. The final batch of 12 deportees arrived on February 23 from Panama on a commercial Turkish Airlines flight at IGI Airport in Delhi, with four from Punjab. In recent years, many young people from Punjab have fallen victim to unscrupulous travel agents exploiting their desire to migrate abroad. These agents have used routes like the Dunki Route, student visas, and fraudulent marriages to profit from the desperation of youth. Over the past three years, Punjab has registered 3,225 First Information Reports (FIRs) against travel agents, with more than 1,100 cases filed under the Punjab Prevention of Human Smuggling Act, 2012. Deportation from US an eye-opener to not go abroad illegally: Punjab CM Mann

Punjab Police busts major heroin smuggling racket linked to USA-based kingpin

CHANDIGARH: In a major blow to trans-border smuggling amidst the ongoing Yudh Nashian Virudh campaign, Punjab Police today seized a 23 kg heroin consignment from Devi Daspura village in Jandiala, near Amritsar. Meanwhile, houses belonging to two more drug peddlers were demolished in Jalandhar and Mandi Gobindgarh. Director General of Police, Punjab, Gaurav Yadav, stated that preliminary investigations have revealed the consignment is linked to a smuggling network operated by USA-based smuggler Jasmit Singh, alias Lucky. In this case, accused Sahilpreet Singh, alias Karan, of village Devi Daspura, who retrieved the consignment, has been nominated, he said. Multiple police teams are actively working to arrest him. Yadav added that further investigations are underway to trace both the backward and forward linkages in the smuggling network. Deputy Inspector General of Police (Border Range) Satinder Singh, accompanied by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Amritsar Rural, Maninder Singh, said police teams at Naka Bandi received reliable input that accused Sahilpreet Singh had retrieved the heroin consignment from across the border. Acting swiftly, teams from Jandiala Police Station launched an intelligence operation and recovered 23 packets of heroin, each weighing 1 kg, kept in a jute bag at a pinpointed location in Devi Daspura village, he said. He further revealed that Sahilpreet Singh was in direct contact with USA-based smuggler Jasmit Singh, alias Lucky, who arranged the consignment. According to information, Jasmit Singh has a criminal background, with cases registered against him under the Arms Act and for attempted murder, Singh added. A manhunt is underway to nab accused Sahilpreet, and a case has been registered under Section 21C of the NDPS Act at Jandiala Police Station in Amritsar Rural. In another crackdown on drug peddlers, Commissionerate Police Jalandhar, in coordination with the Municipal Corporation, demolished an illegal property belonging to a drug smuggler. Jalandhar Police Commissioner Dhanpreet Kaur stated that the Municipal Corporation had received information about an illegal construction on government land by a notorious drug smuggler, Dharminder, son of Mohan Lal, a resident of Dhankiya Mohalla, Jalandhar. The property was reportedly built using proceeds from his illegal drug trade, she said. Kaur added that Dharminder is a habitual offender, with six cases registered against him under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Similarly, another drug smugglers house was demolished in Master Colony, Mandi Gobindgarh, as it was built illegally on government land. Senior Superintendent of Police, Fatehgarh Sahib, Shubham Agarwal, said the Punjab government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against drugs and is taking strict action against traffickers. The family residing in Master Colony had two cases registered against them under the NDPS Act in 2024, he said. Agarwal further informed that six more houses in the district have been identified, and action will be taken against them soon. Meanwhile, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema chaired a meeting with civil and police officers of Tarn Taran district to ensure active community participation in the Yudh Nashian Virudh campaign. He reviewed drug de-addiction activities and issued directions to improve these initiatives. Cheema instructed the civil administration to introduce initiatives encouraging youth participation in educational competitions, sports, culture, and other activities that promote a healthier lifestyle. He also directed the police to ensure swift legal action against drug peddlers, with all property acquired through drug trade to be seized. SSP Tarn Taran, Abhimanyu Rana, informed Cheema that property worth Rs 26 crore was attached last year, over Rs 2 crore this year, and action is underway to seize assets in six additional cases. Eighty individuals have been taken into custody under the NDPS Act in the district, and 13 kg of heroin has been seized as part of this campaign, he said. Meanwhile, Khadoor Sahib MLA Manjinder Singh Lalpura stated that 80 villages from his constituency have passed resolutions to prevent drug sales in their areas.

Who is Bajinder Singh? Punjab preacher accused of sexual harassment and intimidation

Bajinder Singh, head of the Church of Glory and Wisdom in Punjab, is accused of sexual harassment by a 22-year-old. Allegations include inappropriate behavior and threats to her family. Singh, previously convicted of murder, claims the accusations are a conspiracy by a rival pastor. The Diocese of Jalandhar disassociated from him in 2018.

Jalandhar Badminton stadium to have 10 courts

Punjab cabinet approves Rs 200 crore OTS schemes for industrialists

CHANDIGARH: With an eye on the 2027 assembly elections, the Punjab cabinet today approved a one-time settlement (OTS) policy to clear dues on industrial plots allotted before January 2020. This policy will provide Rs 200 crore in relief to 1,145 industrialists who were unable to pay their dues due to the increase in land costs. This is the third major initiative by the AAP government in its attempt to strengthen its position after setbacks in the recent Delhi elections. After the cabinet meeting, while providing details about the first OTS scheme, Punjab Industries Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond said that plot holders who had not paid their land enhancement charges would not be required to pay penal and compounding interest on their dues. They can now pay simple interest at the rate of 8 per cent to clear their dues under the OTS. The compounding and penal interest will be waived. About the second OTS scheme, he said that industrialists who were allotted industrial plots but could not pay their principal amount for any reason can now clear their dues with 8 per cent simple interest. They don't need to pay compounding and penal interest, he added. Sond said that the new policy will benefit around 1,145 industrialists. He stated that these two one-time settlement schemes will remain in effect until December 31, 2025, urging industrialists to take advantage of the scheme. The AAP government is committed to promoting the industry. The cabinet has approved two OTS schemes for industrialists. There are 52 focal points, covering 8,000 acres of land and comprising 14,000 industrial plots across the state. Rajya Sabha MP Sanjeev Arora said it was a major demand of industrialists and would benefit small and medium enterprises the most. The issue had been pending for more than three decades. It will primarily benefit industrialists in Ludhiana, Mohali, and Jalandhar, he said. Sources revealed that dues worth Rs 330 crore are pending from industrialists for plots allotted by the Punjab State Industrial Export Corporation (PSIEC).

ECHS Jalandhar Peon, Safaiwala and Other Recruitment 2025 - Apply Offline for 16 Posts

Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme Jalandhar (ECHS Jalandhar) has Recruits 16 Peon, Safaiwala and Other Posts. Candidates with Any Graduate, BDS, B.Pharma, B.Sc, MBBS, Diploma, GNM, DMLT Can Apply on or before 21-03-2025.

Who is 'Mera Yeshu Yeshu' fame Pastor Bajinder Singh, booked for sexual assault in Punjab?

Pastor Bajinder Singh, known for viral 'Mera Yeshu Yeshu' video, has been booked for sexual harassment in Punjab's Jalandhar district.

Illegal structures built by drug smugglers demolished in Punjabs Jalandhar

The action was directed against Jasvir Singh alias Sheera, a resident of Khanpur, and Bholi, a resident of Mandi, for illegally occupying village panchayat land, the officials said

Punjab: Pastor Bajinder Singh Booked for Sexual Harassment

A sexual harassment case has been filed against a pastor at a church in Punjab's Jalandhar district. The complaint alleges that the pastor, identified as Bajinder Singh, harassed a woman who had been attending the church with her parents since October 2017.

US-Based gang associates arrested in Jalandhar for killing J&K Police SI

Jalandhar, Mar 2: Jalandhar Commissionerate Police has arrested two associates of a USA-based gang who were wanted in connection with the killing of Jammu and Kashmir (J-K) police Sub-Inspector Deepak Sharma on April 2, 2024, a top police officer said. SI Deepak Sharma suffered head injuries during an exchange of fire between police and gangsters [] The post US-Based gang associates arrested in Jalandhar for killing J&K Police SI appeared first on Northlines .

'Will not be spared': Arvind Kejriwal issues stern warning to eradicate drugs from Punjab

Arvind Kejriwal, AAP national convenor, has declared a vigorous campaign against drug dealers in Punjab, vowing to eliminate the drug menace completely. Punjab Police and administration have intensified anti-drug actions, demolishing properties of suspected drug peddlers in Jalandhar district. The Punjab government emphasizes extensive operations and sufficient rehabilitation and de-addiction facilities to combat drug abuse, ensuring community welfare and safety.

Drugs will be eradicated from Punjab forever: Arvind Kejriwal

Arvind Kejriwal vowed to eradicate drugs from Punjab, announcing a major crackdown on drug peddlers. The Punjab Police demolished properties of notorious drug dealers in Jalandhar district. Punjab government directed law enforcement to scale up operations against drug abuse and ensured the availability of adequate rehabilitation facilities to support users.

Two associates of USA-based gang arrested in Jalandhar for killing J&K Police SI

Jalandhar commissionerate police have arrested two associates of a USA-based gang who were wanted in connection with the killing of Jammu and Kashmir (J-K) police Sub-Inspector Deepak Sharma on April 2, 2024, a top police officer said. SI Deepak Sharma suffered head injuries during an exchange of fire between police and gangsters in J-Ks Kathua []

Punjab government continues 'bulldozer action', razes houses of drug peddlers in Phillaur

CHANDIGARH: Unauthorised structures built on the encroached Panchayat land in the Khanpur and Mandi villages of Phillaur were demolished by the Jalandhar Rural Police in coordination with local authorities. The structures were unlawfully occupied by two individuals with a history of narcotics smuggling and were removed following due legal procedure. Senior Superintendent of Police Jalandhar (Rural) Harkamal Preet Singh Khakh said that the demolition drive was carried out following the request of the Block Development and Panchayat Officer (BDPO) Phillaur. He had sought police assistance for the removal of illegal encroachments. The action was directed against Jasvir Singh alias Sheera, son of Dalveer alias Bur, resident of Khanpur, and Bholi, wife of Rampal alias Rama, resident of Mandi. As per official records, Bholi is a notorious drug smuggler and has been facing multiple cases under the NDPS act, including a 1.190 kg smack recovery in 2005, a 2 kg poppy husk seizure in 2015, and a significant quantity of drugs recovered in 2022. Similarly, Jasvir Singh alias Sheera has also been named in multiple cases, including one involving a commercial quantity of charas and intoxicated injections. Khakh said that the police, along with revenue and panchayat officials, ensured that the encroachments were demolished smoothly, with adequate deployment to prevent any disruption. Authorities confirmed that the land rightfully belongs to the gram panchayat and had been unlawfully occupied by the accused. Khakh reiterated that Jalandhar Rural Police will continue its crackdown on illegal encroachments linked to criminal networks, ensuring that no individual benefits from the proceeds of crime or unauthorized occupation of public land. He further urged citizens to report such illegal activities, assuring strict and swift action against offenders He also added that the residents informed him that the two drug traffickers would often intimidate and threaten the villagers. Meanwhile, Village Sarpanch of Khanpur, Paramjit Kaur and local residents commended the action of the Punjab Government against drug smugglers. Recently houses of drug peddlers were demolished by the Punjab Police in Patiala, Ropar and in Ludhiana.

Jalandhar rural police demolish two houses on public land, belonging to drug peddlers

Jalandhar Rural Police and local authorities demolished unauthorized structures on encroached panchayat land in Phillaur, linked to drug peddlers Jasvir Singh and Bholi. The demolition was requested by BDPO Phillaur, and police ensured smooth execution. Both individuals had multiple drug-related cases. Villagers reported being intimidated by these traffickers.

Punjab police raids 1,274 immigration firms across state; 24 FIRs registered, seven arrested

CHANDIGARH: Punjab Police conducted raids at as many as 1,274 immigration firms across the state today. 24 FIRs were registered against defaulter travel agents and seven have been arrested. This comes amid the United States deporting Indian illegal immigrants. So far, three flights of US Air Force landed in Amritsar with 333 deportees and another 12 deported from Panama. Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner of Jalandhar issues notices to 271 agents and DC Amritsar cancels the licenses of 40 agents. The operation against illegal travel agents was carried out simultaneously in all 28 Police districts from 11 am till late evening on Monday. The development came amidst the ongoing crackdown against illegal travel agents across the state in the wake of the deportation of Indians from USA. Special DGP (Law and Order) Arpit Shukla, who was monitoring this daylong state-level operation, said that all the Police Commissioners and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSPs) were asked to constitute special police teams under the supervision of gazetted officers to carry out searches at all the immigration and travel agent firms in their respective jurisdictions. All the CPs and SSPs were directed to ensure strict action against those travel agents, who were found violating the mandatory provisions and procedures of the Punjab Travel Professionals Regulation Act, 2012 or defrauded innocent people with false promises of facilitating illegal entry into foreign countries, he said. As per the provisions of The Punjab Travel Professionals' Regulation Act 2012, all travel agents are mandated to obtain a license from the Deputy Commissioners office, which is valid for five years and renewable for subsequent five-year periods. Licensed agents are also required to display their licenses prominently, maintain records of clients and services, and inform authorities prior to advertising or holding seminars. Additionally, agents are prohibited from engaging in activities beyond their licensed services, including human smuggling or unauthorised emigration assistance. Non-compliance can result in suspension or cancellation of the license and legal action. Shukla said that the DGP Punjab has constituted a four member Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by ADGP NRI Affairs Praveen Sinha to investigate complaints from deportees if any and take necessary action as per law. He exhorted citizens to be cautious and verify travel agents' credentials before entrusting them with documents and money. Only engage agencies with a valid license issued by the Deputy Commissioner under the Punjab Travel Professionals Regulation Act, 2012, he advised. Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner of Jalandhar Himanshu Aggarwal has issued notices to 271 travel agents in the district for failing to renew their licences. He directed all SDMs to inspect the documents of travel agents and immigration consultants within their jurisdiction to prevent fraud. Aggarwal also instructed police to inform his office whenever a case is registered against a travel agent. The licences of 40 travel agents were cancelled in Amritsar. This crackdown on fake travel agents was done as per an order by Amritsar Deputy Commissioner Sakshi Sahni. The Amritsar Police has also issued notice to 271 travel agents in the city who have failed to renew their licences. The Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) have been instructed to inspect the documents at the offices of travel agents and immigration consultants. The district police have been asked to immediately inform the Deputy Commissioner's office in case of any complaints against travel agents.

Indian deportees from Panama reach New Delhi

CHANDIGARH: A group of Indians, who were deported from the US to Panama, were repatriated on Sunday after a flight carrying 12 Indian nationals landed at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi. Among them, four hailed from Punjab, and were then put on a connecting flight to Amritsar. This is the first batch of Indians who were repatriated after being deported to Panama from the US. With this, four flights carrying illegal Indian immigrants to the US have arrived in the country. The US had deported around 299 illegal immigrants to Panama. Sources said the deportees landed in Delhi on a Turkish Airlines flight via Istanbul. Four of the deportees were from Punjab and were put on a connecting flight to Amritsar from Delhi and they have landed in their native state. Among them. Jatinder Singh (34) from Patiala paid `52 lakh to go to the US. He travelled from Delhi to Guana, through Brazil, Columbia, Guatemala and Mexico, before illegally arriving in the US. Another, Maninder Dutt (23) of Chandpur in Jalandhar, paid `42 lakh to fraudulent travel agents who took him from Delhi to Spain, then El Salvador, Guatemala and Mexico. Jugraj Singh (33) of Chaudhpur village in Gurdaspur paid up `38 lakh to travel the donkey route Delhi, Mumbai, Amsterdam, Brazil, Columbia and into the US. Meanwhile, Harpreet Singh (30) of Cheema village in Gurdaspur also dished out Rs 38 lakh to travel the same route. Among the other deportees, three are reportedly from Haryana and another three from Uttar Pradesh. The exact number of Indian immigrants among the 299 deportees to Panama, howevr, remains unclear. On Friday, the Ministry of External Affairs had stated it has seen reports about deportation flights to Panama and New Delhi and is verifying the details as to whether the individuals are Indian nationals or not. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during his weekly briefing had said, Once the verifications are complete, arrangements will be made for return of Indian nationals. The first group of Indians deported by the US earlier arrived in Panama after President Jose Raul Mulino agreed his country would become a bridge country for deportees.

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

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

Punjab man allegedly sells his nine-month-old son for Rs 1 lakh with help of brother-in-law, police investigate

A man in Panam village was caught selling his nine-month-old son for Rs 1 lakh, with assistance from his brother-in-law. The child was transferred to a Jalandhar resident, part payment made in cash and the rest into a bank account. Authorities have booked the individuals under the Juvenile Justice Act and are searching for the child and suspects.

Punjab government transfers vigilance bureau chief, suspends Muktsar deputy commissioner

CHANDIGARH: The Punjab government on Monday conducted the first major bureaucratic reshuffle following the meeting of all AAP MLAs in the state with the party's national convener Arvind Kejriwal . The state government transferred the Chief Director of the Punjab Vigilance Bureau Varinder Kumar and suspended the Deputy Commissioner of Muktsar, Rajesh Tripathi, on charges of corruption. Sources said many party legislators had complained during the meeting of AAP MLAs in Delhi last week, about some junior officials of the Vigilance Bureau running a parallel system and issuing notices against officials in the administration. As per orders issued by the state government Additional DGP (Provisioning) G Nageswara Rao, a 1995 batch IPS officer has been appointed as the chief director of the Punjab Vigilance Bureau in place of Special Director General of Police, Varinder Kumar a 1993 batch IPS. Kumar joined as chief of the Vigilance Bureau in 2022. He was due to retire in July this year. Kumar has not been given any posting as yet and has been asked to report to the DGP. Sources in the Chief Minister's Office said that Kumar was transferred as there was no affirmative action by the Vigilance Bureau in several high-profile cases of corruption currently being investigated by it. With the change at the top, the state government hopes that the investigations in high-profile cases might speed up and also junior officers will also rein in. Additionally, the Deputy Commissioner of Muktsar Rajesh Tripathi, a 2016-batch IAS officer, has been placed under suspension on charges of corruption. Abhijeet Kaplish, a 2015-batch IAS officer has been appointed as new Deputy Commissioner of Muktsar. Tripathi was appointed as the Deputy Commissioner of Muktsar on August 16, 2024, replacing Harpreet Singh Sudan. Before this, he served as the Additional Secretary, Revenue and Rehabilitation, and Director of Land Records, Settlement, Consolidation, and Land Acquisition in Jalandhar. Interestingly last week the state personnel department had issued instructions asking all deputy commissioners, senior superintendents of police, sub-divisional magistrates, and SHOs to check corruption at public offices or face action. The department had stated that corrupt practices undermine public trust, weaken institutions, and hinder national growth, so top priority must be accorded to check this menace. In order to ensure corruption-free and citizen-friendly governance, all field officers should take stringent and effective steps. The order stated that to make the officers accountable and more responsive, feedback will be taken not only from the public but also from MLAs and MPs regarding their working.

NAPA asks govt to take action against travel agents facilitating illegal immigration

Jalandhar, Feb 15: The North American Punjabi Association has expressed serious concern over human trafficking, saying the government must take immediate action to prevent youths from taking illegal and dangerous routes to reach foreign shores. The reaction came after many Indians deported from America last week alleged that they were taken to the US borders through treacherous dunki routes by unscrupulous travel agents without their prior knowledge and after charging huge sums. Satnam Singh Chahal, the Executive Director of the [] The post NAPA asks govt to take action against travel agents facilitating illegal immigration appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Fortis Healthcare To Acquire Superspecialty Hospital In Jalandhar For Rs 462 Crore

Fortis Healthcare said it has signed definitive agreements for acquiring Shrimann Hospital from Shriman Enterprises by way of a slump sale.

Punjab Cabinet approves Rs 14K crore arrears for employees, pensioners

CHANDIGARH: After a gap of four months, the Punjab Cabinet convened, focusing on crucial policy decisions ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections. In a significant relief for state government employees and pensioners, the Cabinet approved the disbursement of pending arrears worth Rs 14,000 crore. Speaking to the media after the meeting, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said, The Cabinet has given approval to release arrears of revised pay, pensions, and leave encashment for the period between 1 January 2016 and 30 June 2022. Additionally, pending Dearness Allowance (DA) from 1 July 2021 to 31 March 2024 will also be released for pensioners and employees. He added that the sum will be disbursed in stages, benefiting nearly six lakh individualsthree lakh employees and three lakh pensioners. The Cabinet also approved the creation of new posts in the Punjab State Legal Services Authority for setting up 22 new Lok Adalats across the state. In order to check tax pilferage and ensure proper utilisation of human resources in the Taxation Department, the Cabinet has approved the creation of 476 new posts in the department. Additionally, the nomenclature of Inspectors has been changed, and they will now be designated as State Taxation Officers, Cheema said. The Cabinet also approved the recruitment of 53 drivers in the Excise Department on a regular basis and sanctioned amendments to rules and qualifications for the direct recruitment of Physical Training Instructors (PTI teachers) in the Elementary Education Department. This will facilitate the hiring of 2,000 such teachers across the state in the coming days, Cheema added. To improve healthcare services, the Cabinet approved the revival of 822 Group C posts in the Health and Family Welfare Department, enhancing the departments efficiency. This move will immensely benefit the public by improving access to quality healthcare services. Additionally, the Cabinet sanctioned the creation of 97 posts across various cadres in the Dr BR Ambedkar State Institute of Medical Sciences, SAS Nagar, further strengthening the institutions ability to provide quality medical services, Cheema stated. The Cabinet also granted approval for providing University Grants Commission (UGC) scales to the teaching faculty of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh Punjab Sports University, Patiala. In a major push for employment generation, the Cabinet waived Stamp Duty, Registration Fees, and other charges for land transfers to the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) NICDC Punjab Industrial Corridor Development Corporation Limited for the Integrated Manufacturing Cluster (IMC), a key component of the Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor (AKIC) Project. This initiative is expected to create over 50,000 jobs, including 32,724 industrial positions and 14,880 non-industrial roles. To support the economically weaker sections (EWS), the Cabinet approved a policy for the optimum utilisation of land reserved for EWS housing. Scattered land pockets in various colonies will be monetised, and the funds will be used to benefit EWS families. For this, 1,500 acres of land will be acquired across the state, Cheema said. The Cabinet also approved a policy for the optimal utilisation of External Development Charges (EDC) collected from property developers under the Punjab Apartment and Property Regulation Act (PAPRA). Under this policy, 50 per cent of the collected EDC will be used for infrastructure development within the respective colony or township, while the remaining 50% will fund major state projects. In a progressive move, the Cabinet approved renaming the financial assistance scheme for acid attack victims as The Punjab Financial Assistance to Acid Victims Scheme, 2024. The scheme will now include male and transgender victims. Additionally, the monthly financial aid for victims has been increased from Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000. The Cabinet also sanctioned the convening of a special session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on 24-25 February to conduct legislative business. In another key decision, the Cabinet approved an amnesty policy for defaulting allottees who were unable to pay for plots or land allotted to them by the Punjab Urban Development Authority (PUDA) and other special development authorities. Furthermore, the Cabinet approved the establishment of special fast-track NRI courts in six districtsJalandhar, Hoshiarpur, Kapurthala, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, Moga, and Ludhianato expedite cases related to non-resident Indians.

Modi Government Provides Enough Opportunities, Stay In India: Jalandhar Man Deported From US | Exclusive

Ratinder Singh to News18: We entered the US illegally via Mexico. The minute we reached Mexico, the border patrol team caught us and sent us in detention for 19 days.

Handcuffed & chained in the sky for 40 hours

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

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

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

NAPA Urges Punjab Govt To Set Up Rehabilitation Fund For Youths Deported From US

JALANDHAR, Feb 5: The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) on Wednesday urged the Punjab government to establish a rehabilitation fund to support young boys and girls being deported from the United States. In a statement, NAPA Executive Director Satnam Singh Chahal said lack of support and resources for these returnees could lead to severe social and economic challenges for the state. He warned the Punjab government that negligence in addressing this growing crisis would only create more problems for the [] The post NAPA Urges Punjab Govt To Set Up Rehabilitation Fund For Youths Deported From US appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

No money for DNA tests: Families of missing Indian youths recruited in Russian army

CHANDIGARH: The Indian Embassy in Moscow recently requested the families of two missing Punjabi youth who had served in the Russian Army to send DNA test reports. However, the families claimed that they do not have money to even conduct the DNA tests. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had earlier said that 16 Indian youth recruited in the Russian forces were still missing. Rajya Sabha MP Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal took up the issue of missing youth in Russia with MEA and said only eight of them had returned till now. He had appealed to the union government to bring back the Indians as soon as possible and take strict action against the agents involved in this racket. Mandeep Kumar from Goraya in Jalandhar, who had fought in the Russia-Ukraine war, has been missing since March 3 last year. His brother Jagdeep Kumar told TNIE that the Indian Embassy in Moscow had asked his family to provide a DNA report of their mother for identification purposes. The embassy sent us an email asking for the DNA report of our mother. Also, the family of Budh Ram Singh who went missing in Russia in March last year was contacted and told to send the DNA report of Sinder Pal Kaur, the mother of Budh Ram. However, both the families cannot afford to get the DNA tests done due to the financial conditions, as a DNA test costs around Rs 23,000, Jagdeep Kumar said. Youth returns home after months of forced combat in Ukraine, says over 25 Indians stuck in Russian army A week back I wrote email to the Ministry of External Affairs seeking help and a way out. In a reply, the MEA has sought time to provide help but after that, their was no communication from them or the Indian embassy in Moscow, we are just waiting for their response, will they help or not, MP Singh said. He added that the family of another missing youth who belonged to Amritsar had sent their DNA test report. Singh also said that he plans to approach the MPs and MLAs in this regard in the coming days, as to date the state government has not helped them. Singh claimed that two Delhi-based travel agents promised Indian youth that they will be recruited in the Russian Army as 'helpers' and flew them to Moscow. There, the youngsters were made to sign documents written in Russian language. They are told that they will work as helpers with the Russian army and dig trenches or wash clothes or cook. Then they are given basic training for 15 days on the pretext of self defense. Then they were put on a train, later, on a bus and sent to the frontline to fight alongside Russian soldiers in the war against Ukraine, he said. He alleged that if they refuse to fight they were tortured. Singh said that each youth was given around Rs 1.95 lakh Indian currency per month. Upon joining the Russian Army, they are given Rs 7 lakh, Rs 2.5 lakh on opening a bank account, Rs 30 lakh if injured. But they never get this money as the travel agents take away their bank details, passwords and ATM cards on the pretext that they will send the money back home to their families. They never send and take out the money from their accounts and themselves swindle off, he added Jagdeep Kumar said that when youth join the Russian Army, they are allotted numbers for their identification. He added that he only recently got to know that the number they had shared with him two months ago, was not his brother's but of someone else named Brijesh from UP's Azamgarh. In another similar incident, Rakesh Yadav and five others who had returned from Russia were called back by the agent for the job of Home Guard. But as soon as they reached there, they were forcibly recruited in the Russian army.

BIS conducts Manak Conclave for stakeholder engagement in Jalandhar

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Jan 30: The Manak Conclave for Stakeholder Engagement organised by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), Jammu & Kashmir Branch Office (JKBO) was held at The Maya Hotel, Jalandhar, today. The function witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 100 stakeholders, including representatives from industry associations, academia and Standard Club students. The conclave aimed to foster dialogue on standardization, quality control and industrial development in Jalandhar, reinforcing BISs commitment to promoting a culture of quality and excellence. The event [] The post BIS conducts Manak Conclave for stakeholder engagement in Jalandhar appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Immigration officials in Bengaluru catch man from Punjab with fake UK visa

He had approached a tout in Jalandhar to get a work visa. The tout reportedly forged the document and inserted the fake visa in the passport

Punjab Congress leaders campaign in Delhi, slam AAP's 'misgovernance', unfulfilled promises

CHANDIGARH: While around 300 leaders from the Punjab Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) are campaigning for party candidates in Delhi, the Punjab Congress is not far behind, having mobilised around 250 leaders from the state. They are attacking the AAP for its misgovernance and unfulfilled promises, including the pledge to provide Rs 1,000 per month to women. The list of state Congress leaders canvassing in the national capital since January 18 includes Punjab Congress President and Ludhiana MP Amrinder Singh Raja Warring, Leader of the Opposition and senior Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa, former Chief Minister and Jalandhar MP Charanjit Singh Channi, Fatehgarh Sahib MP Dr. Amar Singh, MLAs Tript Rajinder Bajwa, Rana Gurjeet, Sukhpal Khaira, OP Soni, along with other legislators and party leaders. A control room has also been set up by the Punjab Congress as its leaders divided into 14 teams focused on door-to-door canvassing in Punjabi-speaking areas spread over 15 assembly segments like Kalkaji, Badli, Janakpuri, Tilak Nagar and Rajouri Graden. The main focus of the party leaders from Punjab is on the New Delhi constituency where Sandeep Dixit, son of former Delhi chief minister late Sheila Dixit, is pitched against Arvind Kejriwal. Talking with The New Indian Express , the Leader of Opposition in the Punjab assembly Partap Singh Bajwa said, As we enter Delhi from Punjab, we are greeted by a big mountain of garbage. Kejriwal has converted the national capital into a gas chamber and an urban slum. This is what he has given the people of Delhi. The entire party leadership from Punjab is campaigning in Delhi, informing the public about AAP's unfulfilled promises in Punjab and how the law and order situation has worsened since it came to power, he said. In the 2022 Punjab assembly elections, AAP showcased the Delhi model and took state voters for a ride and now it is trying to fool Delhi voters by highlighting their Punjab model. But we are telling the electorate about the ground reality of Punjab, said Warring. Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira said they are highlighting the misgovernance by the AAP government in Punjab, noting how in last years parliamentary elections, the ruling party of the state could only manage to win three Lok Sabha seats. It is like a rehearsal for the 2027 Punjab assembly elections, he said. He claimed, I have been regularly exposing the false promises by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal and urge the voters of Delhi to beware of these fake revolutionaries.

Olympic medalists Neeraj, Nadeem feature on Aaghaz-e-Dosti's 13th Indo-Pak peace calendar

CHANDIGARH: This year, the 13th Indo-Pak peace calendar by Aaghaz-e-Dosti features a painting of Indias Javelin star Neeraj Chopra's mother with her hands draped across the shoulders of Neeraj and Pakistans Arshad Nadeem; the men had claimed the silver and gold medals respectively at the Paris Olympics 2024. A letter exchange program took place between students of school at Phaltan in Maharashtra and Lahore. More schools from either country will get connected to each other via video conferencing and encourage students to share their experiences and aspirations. The peace calendar, launched on Sunday in Gurugram included six paintings by Indian and six more by Pakistani students. The calendar is to be released in Pakistan soon. This Indo-Pak Peace calendar is an initiative by the civil society to cultivate a culture of peace and includes messages from eminent persons who support peace-building and co-existence. Talking to TNIE , Ravi Nitesh founder of Aaghaz-e-Dosti said, We observed a few unique things this year: Students were painting even on contemporary issues. For example, Sirjan Kaur, a student from Swami Sant Das Public School in Jalandhar, Punjab, has made a painting of Neeraj Chopra's mother showing her hands upon the shoulders of Neeraj and Nadeem, saying 'both are my sons. This is a beautiful thing that young students are aware about these issues and linking such chains where they see peace and bonding. This year, we also brought Nest Man of India Rakesh Khatri and people from the International Watercolor Society to open new avenues of linking both sides which young citizens need to know, he said. Nitesh said, The events create a culture of peace, as schools follow up with Aaghaz-e-Dosti for more activities. Recently, we facilitated a letter exchange program between Sajnjan Nagar Public School in Lahore and Kamla Nimbkar Balbhavan at Phaltan of Maharashtra where students wrote letters to each other, as ten students from each school wrote to each other telling about their culture, school, library and each others likes and dislikes. We are planning that, in the coming days, more schools from each country get connected to each other via video conferencing and thus students will share their experiences and aspirations in order to overcome misunderstandings, he says. At a time when the world is surrounded by things of war and conflicts, such actions by young people in India and Pakistan actually reflects how beautiful and strong our cultural bond is and how our future generations are willing to be connected and look for a future which is more peaceful, safer, violence free, hatred free, arms free, he added. Dr Devika Mittal, convener of Aaghaz-e-Dosti said, The calendar with paintings by innocent and apolitical minds remind us that mindsets have been constructed. Together with the beautiful dreams of the young and innocent, the calendar also carries messages from people who have been actively working to nurture these dreams. This calendar is a collection of shared dreams of peace and friendship. It serves as a hope shared by people who are just like us, in habit and struggle. With the turn of the pages to start a new month, the hope shall be renewed, he added. Working since 2012, Aaghaz-e-Dosti has already released thirteen such calendars. Our aim is to work with school students because they are responsible citizens of the future and their future should be hatred-free free-violence free and war free. When students create art, it brings their emotions, their thoughts and their dreams, said Nitin Mittoo, Coordinator of Aaghaz-e-Dosti. Besides the launch, a discussion 'Sharing of Hopes for a Peaceful Co-existence' and a poetry session were organised.

Screening of Kangana Ranaut's 'Emergency' cancelled in theatres across Punjab following protests

CHANDIGARH: The cinemas and multiplexes across Punjab on Friday were forced to cancel the screening of Kangana Ranaut-starrer Emergency following protests by various Sikh organization and farmers' bodies. Kangana plays the role of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in the film. The films release was earlier delayed after the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) sought several cuts in the movie after Sikh groups raised concerns over the portrayal of the community. On Thursday, SGPC had demanded that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann ban its screening in Punjab. In a letter to Mann, SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami said the movie was a calculated attempt to distort history and harm Sikh sentiments and warned that releasing it could provoke outrage within the Sikh community. The protesters claimed that the movie hurt the sentiments of the Sikhs and provoked outrage in the community. The members of Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) protested against the movie outside the cinemas in Amritsar. Also, there were protests outside cinemas in Bathinda, Patiala, Ludhiana, Jalandhar and Hoshiarpur. The members of one of the factions of farmer union BKU gathered outside Dhillon Plaza and Cosmo Plaza in Zirakpur in SAS Nagar district near Chandigarh and protested alleging that Kangana Ranaut used vulgar language against them during the ongoing farmers' protest and in the movie, facts have been twisted to defame the Sikh community. A member of Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) said that the history of the Sikh religion and the incidents of 1984 were depicted in the movie in a distorted manner. He demanded the movie to be banned. Meanwhile, Kangana reacted to the protests saying it as a complete harassment of art and the artist. She also slammed the propaganda to tarnish her image. In a message posted on platform X, Kangana Ranaut wrote, This is complete harassment of art and the artist, from Punjab many cities are reporting that these people are not allowing Emergency to be screened. I have utmost respect for all religions and after studying and growing up in Chandigarh I have closely observed and followed sikh religion. This is complete lie and propaganda to tarnish my image and harm my film. Punjab Congress President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring said that governments and censor boards must keep an eye on films like Emergency as such films show scripted stories, which are not true and the facts are twisted otherwise, they would not be successful if there was no masala. However, theaters in the Union Territory of Chandigarh screened the movie.

CA Student Arrested In Jalandhar For Duping Delhi Woman Of Rs 18 Lakh Through Dating App

According to police, Jindal targeted young professionals and students, presenting himself as a fund manager and convincing them to invest in fake trading platforms

Locks on every 2nd home, this is Diljit Dosanjh's village, it is located in...

Singer Diljit Dosanjh's village in Jalandhar is a silent story of abandonment and emptiness. young villagers in large chunk are leaving the village to settle in abroad.

Former PM Manmohan Singh's love for Amritsar & Chandigarh or a family tale

CHANDIGARH: Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's great-nephew Randeep Singh Kohli, who runs a hardware business in Punjab, got married in February this year. But Manmohan Singh was not able to attend the wedding since he was not keeping well. But the soft-spoken former PM did not fail to congratulate his great-nephew over phone, Randeep recalls proudly. Prior to Covid-19, he (Manmohan Singh) came to Amritsar and met the whole family at the circuit house. Whenever he was in Amritsar we used to meet him. In 2016 when my father Mandeep Singh Kohli died he came to our house to pay his last respects, Randeep recalled. Presently Randeep is in Delhi, along with other family members, to attend the cremation to be held on Saturday. Even his (Manmohan Singh's) sisters living in Kolkata are in the national capital. One of his daughter's will land tonight from the US. But the thing is that we feel empty here since he is no more. It will take a lot of time for us to come over this loss, Randeep Singh noted. Punjab held a special place in the heart of Manmohan Singh. Punjab was his first love, Amritsar, in particular from where he completed his schooling and graduation. He then did his post-graduation in Economics from Panjab University in Chandigarh and thereafter went on to pursue his advanced studies. After he left Panjab University, Singh returned to the campus thrice in 1983, 2009 and 2018. During the first two visits, he was awarded honorary degrees. In April 2018 Singh came to the campus again and delivered the first Prof SB Ragnekar Lecture, organized by his department. Recalling that Singh was a man of few words, Prof Upinder Sawhney, former chairperson of the Economic Department at Panjab University, explained that he had invited Singh to speak at the department in 2018, and the former PM obliged under the condition that he would address only the students. When I was a student had a desire to meet him as an associate professor, I first met him in 1999 at a conference and then wanted to invite him to the department for a lecture. When I met him again he asked about the university and the honors school. I again kept on requesting him to come and he finally agreed, then I was on cloud nine. He came and addressed the students for an hour as he gave a lecture at the first SB Rangnekar Memorial Lecture. As the topic was 'The Seventieth Anniversary of our Independence Strengthening the roots of our Democracy',the students were delighted by his presence. After the lecture, he interacted with the faculty. He was humble, down to earth and I never felt talking to the former PM he made you comfortable, only did academic talk, spoke nothing controversial, he was man of few words, she says. Singh also donated around 3,500 books and memorabilia from his personal collection to the Guru Teg Bahadur Bhawan Library of the university. Vice Chancellor of Panjab University, Prof Renu Vig said, His legacy as an academic, economist and leader will forever remain etched in the history of Panjab University and our nation. Singhs visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the nation have left an indelible mark on Indias progress. His contributions to academia and public service remain a source of immense pride for Panjab University. Prof Shalina Mehta who retired as the head of the Anthropology department from Panjab University has been living in the house of former PM Singh since 2015, the last rent agreement between them was signed in April this year. Recalling her interaction with the former PM she says he was very simple, humble and down to earth. Two months after renting the house in 2015, Singh and his wife visited her. He had tea and pakoras with me sitting on the dining table. He was keen to come and stay in his own house. It was his last visit to his house as there was lot of security he said he did not want to bother me again. In 2018, I again met him when he was in Chandigarh as I was invited for dinner, she says. Though Singh visited Amritsar many times, it was in March 2018 during an alumni meet of Hindu College where he had studied he shared his feeling. He shared his experience as a student and said that he was the first student of the college who was given a roll of honour and had recalled with fondness the contribution of principal Sant Ram Grover, Prof Mast Ram Jain and Prof Jugal Kishore Trikha who taught him economics. In March 2006, Singh flagged off the Punj-Aab bus service from Amritsar to Nankana Sahib in Pakistan connecting two of the most revered shrines of the Sikhs. Later the bus service was discontinued due to strained ties between both countries. He also took steps for upgrading facilities at Attari railway station to facilitate bilateral trade with Pakistan and Afghanistan through the Attari-Wagah joint checkpost. Singh always prioritized Amritsar when it came to development. During his tenure, he sanctioned Rs 72 crore for the completion of the Galliara Project around the Golden Temple. A Centre for Research on the Guru Granth Sahib was also established at GNDU. The main elevated road project worth Rs 250 crore on the Amritsar-Jalandhar GT Road at the entry point was conceptualized by him. Singh has a house in Sector 11 of Chandigarh, which he has rented to a retired professor of the Panjab University. It may be recalled that Manmohan Singh's wife Gursharan Kaur also hails from Amritsar. The couple has three daughters Upinder Singh, Daman Singh and Amrit Singh. The former PMs extended family included six sisters and three half-brothers Surinder Singh Kohli, Surjit Singh Kohli and Daljit Singh Kohli. Both Surjit and Daljit run a garment business in Amritsar and also own a factory that manufactures auto parts.

Punjab Police nabs three associates of gangster after brief encounter in Jalandhar

Police party fired back in self-defence, which involved an exchange of 15 rounds, one of the operatives sustained critical injuries and is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital, police said

20 injured as bus overturns in fields on Jalandhar-Jammu NH

Hoshiarpur: A private bus overturned in fields near village Kurala on the Jalandhar-Jammu National Highway on Wednesday, injuring 20 passengers, police said. Tanda SHO Gurwinderjit Singh said nine injured passengers were admitted to the Civil Hospital in Dasuya, while 11 were taken to the Community Health Centre (CHC) in Tanda for treatment. Four critically injured passengers were referred to the Government Hospital in Hoshiarpur from Dasuya Civil Hospital here. Some of the injured were discharged after receiving first aid at CHC, Tanda. The bus was travelling from Pathankot to Jalandhar, the police said. Preliminary investigations suggest that the driver lost control of the vehicle near Kurala village, SHO Singh said, adding that further investigations are underway.

Celebrating the Olympic stars birthday - Neeraj Chopra and his historic wins for India

The Olympic star, Subedar Major Neeraj Chopra turns 27 today. Well, who doesnt know the man with an arm that only aims at the Gold. Kids adore him calling Neeraj bhaiya with the javelin. The young man has brought India glory and fortune at quite a young age. Today as the Olympian enters in a New year of achievements full of happiness, we celebrate the star and his bests. Heres a complete timeline of events- Biography Neeraj Chopra was born on 24 th December 1997 in Khandra village, Panipat district of Haryana to parents Saroj Devi and Satish Chopra. He belongs to a Haryanvi Ror agricultural family, where both of his parents are farmers. His primary schooling took place at BVN Public school, Panipat. Due to obesity, he got enrolled to a gym. Thats where he first got introduced to Javelin throw and took up the sport eventually. At the age of 13, he moved to Tau Devi Lal Sports complex at Panchkula for his training, one of the only two facilities in Haryana with a synthetic runway. Neeraj completed his further schooling from Dayanand Vedic college, Chandigarh. While studying at school, alongside he won National Javelin Championships in 2012 and 2014. Seeing his sports achievements, Neeraj was recruited in the Indian Army in 2016. From the Indian Army only, Neeraj got selected for the Mission Olympics Wing training at the Army Sports Institute in Pune. In 2021, he enrolled for the Bachelor in Arts degree at Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar. Career beginnings After a trial at the Sports Authority of India, Neeraj began his formal training of Javelin. He could manage third position at the District Championship. At the National Junior Athletics Championships in Lucknow, Neeraj won Gold with a new junior national record throw (68.40m). Neeraj competed at the World Youth Championships in Donetsk, Ukraine. It was his first international competition where he finished 19 th in the overall classification. Chopras first international medal came in 2014 where he won silver at the Youth Olympics qualification in Bangkok. In 2015, Neeraj broke the World Junior record at the All India Inter- University Athletics meet. In the same year, he finished fifth at the National games and ninth at the Asian Athletics Championships. The turning point came when Neeraj was called at the national level training camp at the Netaji Subhas National Institute of Sports in Patiala (2016). South Asian Games (2016): Gold with new personal best of 82.23m at Guwahati. 2016 IAAF World U-20 Championships in Poland: Gold medal with a throw of 86.48 m that set a new world junior record. He also became the first Indian javelin player to hold the national senior record and world junior record at the same time. Officially inducted as the Junior Commissioned officer in Indian Army. And then a rank of Naib Subedar in the Rajputana rifles. 2017 Asian Athletics Championships: Gold for Neeraj 2017 World Championships: 15 th in overall qualification 2018 Common wealth games: Gold medal with season best effort of 86.47m. First Indian to win the common wealth medal. August 2018: Gold at the Asian Games, first for Neeraj and first for India. It was his debut at the games where he was even the flagbearer of India. Neeraj had a year of injuries, surgeries in 2019. But he could manage it and had a comeback in 2021, when he began his international season with a gold. June 2021: Gold at the Athletics meet in Karlstad, Sweden. In the subsequent games in Finland, Neeraj won bronze medal. The World Champion arrives with new records (2021 2024) Neeraj Chopra, the reigning World Champion arrived in 2021 at the Tokyo Olympics. On 7 th August, Neeraj Chopra scripted history by clinching a gold in his second attempt at the final with a throw of 87.58 m. Neeraj became the first Indian to win a Gold medal in Athletics, also the first Indian in athletics post- independence. He is the second Indian to win an individual Olympic gold after Abhinav Bindra. And the first Asian Athlete to win an Olympic gold. Neeraj was also the youngest ever Indian Olympic Gold medalist in an individual event and a first to win a medal on Olympic debut. Following the Olympic win, Neeraj registered World No.2 in Mens javelin throw rankings. June 2022: Second at Paavo Nurmi Games with new personal best at 89.30 m. 2022 Diamond League: Neeraj broke his own national record with a throw of 89.94 m. July 2022: Silver medal at the World Athletics Championships (Indias second ever medal at the championships). 2022: Diamond League finals where Neeraj won gold and qualified for the 2023 World Championships. May 2023: Top spot at the Doha Diamond league with a throw of 88.67 m. Neeraj placed at the first position of the Mens Javelin throw rankings issued by the World Athletics. August 2023: Gold medal at the World Athletics Championships, making Neeraj the first Indian to win gold at the event. October 2023: Second gold at the Asian games with season best throw of 88.88 m. 2024: Finished second at the Doha Diamond league. Neeraj won the gold at the Federation cup in India and the Paavo Nurmi games before the Paris Olympics. For the qualification in the finals at the Paris Olympics, Neeraj in his first attempt at 89.34 m secured the top spot of the table. He won the silver medal with a throw at 89.45 m. After the two Olympic wins, Neeraj became fifth individual medalist from India and the first one to win a gold and silver combination. Neeraj was placed second at the Lausanne Diamond League javelin throw competition. For Neerajs contribution to the sport he has been honored by the Government of India with: Arjuna Award for sporting excellence in 2018, Khel Ratna Award which is the highest sporting honor in the country in 2021, Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian honor in 2022, Apart from this, Neeraj Chopra was also named as Sportsman of the year (2021) by The Times of India. The Army Sports Institute Stadium in Pune is now named as Neeraj Chopra stadium. Neeraj also got featured on Vogue Indias cover named as the Man of the Year (2021). Now, we know why Neeraj Chopra is the most loved sport athlete of India. The achievements of the star are many, and we even look for more. As said true, the best of the star is yet to come. Wishing Neeraj a new milestone year with a gold medal from every event he steps into!

Polls throw up split mandate in 3 Punjab municipal bodies

Punjab's fractured municipal election results have sparked concerns within the Congress about potential poaching by its INDIA bloc ally, AAP. The opposition leader alleges AAP may attempt to lure councilors in Ludhiana, Jalandhar, and even Amritsar. Speculation is rife about a potential Congress-BJP alliance in Ludhiana to keep AAP from power, echoing a similar collaboration in 1992.

AAP secures 55 per cent of total seats in Punjab civic body elections; majority in one corporation only

CHANDIGARH: The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) performed poorly in the civic body elections held on Saturday, having secured clear-cut majority in only one corporation out of five. AAP won Patiala Municipal Corporation, emerged as the single largest party in Ludhiana and Jalandhar municipal corporations, but fell short of the majority mark in Amritsar and Phagwara municipal corporations. Congress won Amritsar Municipal Corporation and emerged as the single largest party in Phagwara. AAP won 26 out of 44 municipal councils and nagar panchayats. Polling, this time, was disrupted by bursts of violence as the ruling party generally wins all major civic bodies in the state. More than 3,300 candidates contested in the civic body polls and a total of 37.32 lakh voters were eligible to vote in the elections. Voter turnout was 65.85 per cent; polling percentage at Phagwara was 55.21 per cent, Jalandhar 50.27 per cent, Amritsar 44.05 per cent, Ludhiana 46.95 per cent and Patiala 32.95 per cent. AAP won 43 out of 53 seats in former CM Capt Amarinder Singh's home turf, the 60-member Patiala Municipal Corporation, crossing the majority mark of 31. Congress and BJP won four seats each while SAD won two seats. Elections to seven corporation wards have been postponed. In Ludhiana AAP won 41 of 95, falling short of majority by seven seats. Congress won 30 wards, BJP won 19, SAD won two and independent candidates won 3 wards. In a major setback to AAP, the wives of its two sitting MLAs Sukhchain Kaur Gogi (wife of Ludhiana West MLA Gurpreet Singh Gogoi) and Meenu Parashar (wife of Ludhiana Central MLA Ashok Parashar) lost the polls in Ludhiana. The wife of former Congress minister Bharat Bhushan Ashu, Mamta Ashu, also lost. In Jalandhar AAP won 38 of 85, missing the majority mark by five wards. Congress secured 25 seats, BJP won 19 wards, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) won one and independent candidates emerged victorious in two wards. In Amritsar Congress won 43 out of 85 wards, AAP won 24, BJP won nine, SAD won four and independent candidates won five wards. In Phagwara Congress won 22 wards, AAP won 12, BJP four, BSP three, SAD three and independent candidates won six. No party touched the majority mark of 26 seats. However, Congress emerged as the single largest party and BSP is likely to support it in the 50-member house. Besides not performing as per expectations in the five big municipal corporations of the state, the Aam Aadmi Party took a major hit in its bastion Sangrur, as it could win only seven out of 29 seats of the local Municipal Council. This is the second consecutive defeat after the Barnala assembly bypoll in its political capital, the home district of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, AAP Punjab president Aman Arora and State Finance Minister Harpal Cheema. Punjab AAP President Aman Arora claimed that the party is now officially the 'No. 1 party' in Punjab's urban areas. He said the illusion that the BJP and Congress are the strongest parties in urban areas has been shattered. In this election, AAP won more than 55 per cent of the seats. Together, SAD-BJP and Congress could not even secure 45 per cent. He mentioned that out of 977 wards, the results of 961 wards were declared yesterday. Of these, AAP candidates won in 522 wards. Meanwhile, Congress managed to win only 20 per cent of the seats, securing 191 wards. The BJP and Akali Dal faced a crushing defeat in this election. BJP won merely 7 per cent of the seats, with 69 of its candidates emerging victorious. Similarly, Akali Dal managed to win only 3 per cent of the seats, with just 31 of its candidates securing victory. BSP had 5 winners and could secure victory in only 0.5 per cent of the seats. The number of independent candidates who won stood at 143, and their victory percentage was approximately 15 per cent, Arora claimed. He said that AAP achieved a landslide victory in the Patiala Municipal Corporation. In Jalandhar and Ludhiana, AAP fell just two to four seats short of a majority, and the party is confident of having its mayor in these cities as well. Arora said that the Aam Aadmi Party has achieved a significant milestone in these elections. From zero per cent to 55 per cent, this is a historic leap. Earlier, AAP did not have a mayor or a municipal council president anywhere. Now, the party will have mayors in three cities and presidents in 31 municipal councils and committees.

Punjab: Voting for municipal polls underway

Chandigarh: Polling for election to five municipal corporations and 44 municipal councils and nagar panchayats are underway in Punjab, officials said on Saturday.The polling began at 7 am amid tight security arrangements and will continue till 4 pm, they added. #WATCH | Punjab | Voting underway in Bathinda for the Municipal Corporation Elections 2024 pic.twitter.com/wLaR4aPS2j ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2024 The votes will be counted at the polling stations itself after the completion of the polling, the officials said. The five municipal corporations where the elections are being held are Amritsar, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Patiala and Phagwara. More than 3,300 candidates are in the fray for the civic polls, the officials said, adding that a total of 3,809 polling booths have been set up. A total of 37.32 lakh voters, including 17.75 lakh females, are eligible to cast their votes in these elections. Electronic voting machines (EVMs) are being used for the polling. Adequate security arrangements have been made, the officials said. The civic polls will be a litmus test for the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which would like its winning momentum to continue after securing victories in three of the four Assembly bypolls in November. These elections are important as they will reveal the popularity of the ruling party among urban voters. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann held roadshows and campaigned for the AAP candidates in the run-up to the elections. It will also be the first test for Aman Arora after he was appointed as the AAP's Punjab unit chief. Arora took part in poll campaigning and made several promises to the voters. The stakes are also high for the Congress, which had majority in the Amritsar, Jalandhar, Ludhiana and Patiala municipal corporations. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) are also contesting the municipal corporation polls.

Punjab CM Mann holds roadshows for upcoming MC polls, urges voters to choose AAP mayor

CHANDIGARH: With the Municipal Corporation elections scheduled for December 21, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann campaigned for AAP candidates in Amritsar and Jalandhar today, holding roadshows in both cities. He urged voters to elect an AAP mayor to ensure rapid development stating that with the party in power in the state, the city would progress at double the pace. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann held a road show in Jalandhar with party leaders and workers, appealing to people to ensure the victory of AAP candidates. Addressing the people, CM Mann outlined a comprehensive plan for Jalandhar's development. He reiterated the party's promises to curb pollution in the city and enhance public transport by introducing electric buses with modern charging stations, eliminating garbage mountains, and creating a better sewage system. Mann stated that local governance directly impacts the quality of life in cities. He emphasized the need to elect better candidates who effectively address local issues and work for the people. He assured that with the AAP leading the state government the problems of the municipal corporation would be resolved quickly. Therefore he urged the voters to choose an AAP mayor to ensure the city's development progresses at double the pace. Highlighting the work done by his government over the past two and a half years he mentioned that 50,000 youths were given government jobs purely on merit without bribes or recommendations. He further added corruption has been curbed, and strict action is being taken against corrupt individuals. Underlining the government's achievements in the health and education sector, Mann pointed out that numerous Mohalla Clinics have been opened across Punjab, and government hospitals have been revamped. Simultaneously, government schools are being transformed into world-class institutions with all kinds of facilities, and infrastructure is being improved. Mann appealed to the people of Jalandhar to rise above caste and religion and vote on December 21. He said this time, vote for your future, your children's future, and the development of your city. Earlier in the day CM Mann campaigned for the AAP candidates for the upcoming Municipal Corporation elections in Amritsar. He highlighted the unique historical and cultural significance of Amritsar, calling it the land of martyrs and a place visited by millions annually to see landmarks like Golden Temple, Durgiana Mandir, Jallianwala Bagh, and Wagah Border. He outlined AAP's vision to enhance Amritsars infrastructure, economy, and tourism potential. He outlined a comprehensive plan for Amritsar's development, focusing on key areas such as electric buses, market upgrades, underground cabling, wastewater management, and economic growth. Mann emphasized the introduction of eco-friendly electric buses with modern charging stations to curb pollution and enhance public transport. He also highlighted plans to revamp old markets and decongest narrow streets to restore their appeal, beautify the city by replacing overhead wires with underground cabling, and clean the polluted drains along the Amritsar-Wagah road to improve sanitation and environmental health. Additionally, he stressed the importance of promoting tourism to encourage longer visitor stays, which would boost the local economy through increased spending on shopping, hospitality, and other businesses.

Farmers block trains in Punjab for three hours as part of their 'Rail Roko' protest, 31 trains affected

CHANDIGARH: Today, farmers across Punjab blocked rail tracks for three hours as part of their 'Rail Roko' protest, demanding that the Union Government address their concerns. As a result, 31 trains were disrupted. The farmers also called for a Punjab bandh on December 30 to further press their demands. The call for the 'Rail Roko' has been given by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha. The farmers held protests and blocked railway tracks at seventeen places in the state Moga, Faridkot, Kadian and Batala in Gurdaspur; Phillaur in Jalandhar; Tanda, Dasuya, Mahilpur in Hoshiarpur; Makhu, Talwandi Bhai in Ferozepur; Sahnewal in Ludhiana; Shambhu in Patiala; Mohali; Sunam and Lehra in Sangrur, Rampura Phul in Bathinda and Devidaspura in Amritsar. Sources in the railways said that 31 trains were effected as of these nine were short terminated and one train was diverted. The Shatabdi Express coming from New Delhi for Amritsar was halted at Khanna railway station. While the Humsafar Express from Jammu to Sealdah, Dadar Express from Amritsar to Mumbai and Shan-e-Punjab Express from New Delhi to Amritsar were halted at different platforms of the Ludhiana railway station. Kisan Mazdoor Morcha convenor Sarwan Singh Pandher said farmers sat on the rail tracks at many places from 12 noon and till 3 pm. For the past three weeks, Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal has been on a fast-unto-death at the Khanauri border point between Punjab and Haryana to press the Centre to accept the agitating farmers' demands. Farmers under the banner of Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha have been camping at Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13 after their march to Delhi was stopped by security forces. A jatha (group) of 101 farmers made three attempts to enter Delhi on foot on December 6, December 8 and again on December 14 but Haryana Police did not allow them to proceed. Besides a legal guarantee on MSP for crops, the farmers are demanding a debt waiver, pension for farmers and farm labourers, no hike in the electricity tariff, withdrawal of police cases and justice for the victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence, reinstatement of the Land Acquisition Act, 2013, and compensation to the families of the farmers who died during a previous agitation in 2020-21 are also part of their demands.

Farmers begin three-hour rail roko protest in Punjab as 'Dilli Chalo' attempts crushed

CHANDIGARH: Farmers blocked train routes at several places in Punjab on Wednesday as part of their three-hour 'Rail Roko' protest to press the Centre into accepting their various demands, including a legally binding minimum support price for crops. The call for the 'rail roko' has been given by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha. Kisan Mazdoor Morcha leader Sarwan Singh Pandher said farmers have been squatting on rail tracks at many places from 12 noon and will continue to be there till 3 pm. VIDEO | Punjab: Protesting farmers block railway track in Mohali as part of their 'Rail Roko' agitation. #FarmersProtest (Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvrpG7 ) pic.twitter.com/DcnLpI2BZt Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 18, 2024 The places where the protest was supposed to be held included Moga, Faridkot, Kadian and Batala in Gurdaspur; Phillaur in Jalandhar; Tanda, Dasuya, Mahilpur in Hoshiarpur; Makhu, Talwandi Bhai in Ferozepur; Sahnewal in Ludhiana; Shambhu in Patiala; Mohali, and Sunam and Lehra in Sangrur. Farmers under the banner of Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha have been camping at Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13 after their march to Delhi was stopped by security forces. For the past three weeks, Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal has been on a fast-unto-death at the Khanauri border point between Punjab and Haryana to press the Centre to accept the agitating farmers' demands, including a legal guarantee of MSP on crops. A jatha (group) of 101 farmers made three attempts to enter Delhi on foot on December 6, December 8 and again on December 14. Haryana security personnel did not allow them to proceed. Farmers suspend Delhi march for the day as 17 injured after Haryana cops fire tear gas Besides a legal guarantee on MSP for crops, the farmers are demanding a debt waiver, pension for farmers and farm labourers, no hike in the electricity tariff, withdrawal of police cases and justice for the victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence. Reinstatement of the Land Acquisition Act, 2013, and compensation to the families of the farmers who died during a previous agitation in 2020-21 are also part of their demands.

3-hour rail roko protest by farmers begins in Punjab

Chandigarh: Farmers blocked train routes at several places in Punjab on Wednesday as part of their three-hour 'Rail Roko' protest to press the Centre into accepting their various demands, including a legally binding minimum support price for crops. The call for the 'rail roko' has been given by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha. Kisan Mazdoor Morcha leader Sarwan Singh Pandher said farmers have been squatting on rail tracks at many places from 12 noon and will continue to be there till 3 pm. The places where the protest was supposed to be held included Moga, Faridkot, Kadian and Batala in Gurdaspur; Phillaur in Jalandhar; Tanda, Dasuya, Mahilpur in Hoshiarpur; Makhu, Talwandi Bhai in Ferozepur; Sahnewal in Ludhiana; Shambhu in Patiala; Mohali, and Sunam and Lehra in Sangrur. Farmers under the banner of Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha have been camping at Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13 after their march to Delhi was stopped by security forces. For the past three weeks, Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal has been on a fast-unto-death at the Khanauri border point between Punjab and Haryana to press the Centre to accept the agitating farmers' demands, including a legal guarantee of MSP on crops. A jatha (group) of 101 farmers made three attempts to enter Delhi on foot on December 6, December 8 and again on December 14. Haryana security personnel did not allow them to proceed. Besides a legal guarantee on MSP for crops, the farmers are demanding a debt waiver, pension for farmers and farm labourers, no hike in the electricity tariff, withdrawal of police cases and justice for the victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence. Reinstatement of the Land Acquisition Act, 2013, and compensation to the families of the farmers who died during a previous agitation in 2020-21 are also part of their demands.

No, This Video Doesnt Show Men Brutally Thrashing Cows in Bangladesh

The incident happened in the Jamsher area of Jalandhar, Punjab.

Aam Aadmi Party announces screening committee members for Punjab local body polls

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) announced the members of its Screening Committees for the upcoming local body elections in Punjab. Several ministers have been assigned charge of committees for different regions, including Amritsar, Balachaur, and Jalandhar. These elections, covering municipal corporations, councils, and nagar panchayats, are scheduled for December 21.

All set for civic body polls in Punjab

CHANDIGARH: Punjab is gearing up for the upcoming civic body elections scheduled for 21 December. Voters will decide the fate of five municipal corporationsAmritsar, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Patiala, and Phagwaraalong with 44 municipal councils and by-elections to several other urban civic bodies. The counting of votes will also take place on the same day. This election marks a significant four-cornered contest between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Congress, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). State Election Commissioner Raj Kamal Chaudhuri announced that polling for the municipalities will be conducted using electronic voting machines (EVMs), a departure from the recent panchayat elections where ballot papers were used. Filing of nominations begins on Monday, 9 December, with the last date being 12 December. The scrutiny of nominations will be carried out on 13 December, while 14 December marks the deadline for withdrawal of nominations and the allotment of symbols. The five municipal corporations going to the polls are Amritsar, Jalandhar, Phagwara, Ludhiana, and Patiala, spanning a total of 381 wards. With this announcement, the model code of conduct has been imposed in the state. The expenditure limit for candidates contesting these elections has been fixed. For municipal corporations, the limit is Rs 4 lakh, while for municipal councils, it ranges between Rs 2 lakh and Rs 3.6 lakh, Chaudhuri stated. A total of 37.32 lakh voters, including 17.75 lakh women and 204 others, are eligible to exercise their franchise. Authorities have identified 1,609 polling locations and 3,717 polling booths, with 344 classified as hypersensitive and 665 as sensitive. To ensure a smooth electoral process, 20,486 personnel from Punjab Police and Home Guard jawans will be deployed, alongside 500 patrolling parties and 283 striking reserves. The outcome of these elections is expected to reveal urban voters political preferences, as they will be conducted on party symbols, unlike the recent panchayat elections. In the last municipal elections for Amritsar, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, and Patiala, the Congress secured comfortable majorities. This time, the party is expected to put in a strong effort to retain its hold over these municipalities. The contest promises to be fierce, with the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) participating under the leadership of its recently elected state president, Aman Arora. The BJP will test the strength of its urban voter outreach, contesting alone after previously aligning with the Akali Dal. Meanwhile, the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), which had stayed away from the recent panchayat polls, has confirmed its participation in these elections. With the stakes high and all major political parties involved, the urban civic body elections are set to be a critical barometer of Punjabs political landscape.

Dubai-Returned Groom Left Shocked as Bride Goes Missing on Wedding Day in Punjab

CHANDIGARH, Dec 7: A Dubai-returned groom and his entourage of 150 baraatis were shocked when they arrived in Moga, Punjab, only to find his bride missing and that the wedding venue did not exist. Deepak Kumar (24), who returned to Jalandhar from Dubai a month ago to marry Manpreet Kaur, who he had been talking [] The post Dubai-Returned Groom Left Shocked as Bride Goes Missing on Wedding Day in Punjab appeared first on Northlines .

Dubai-Returned Groom Duped, Bride Goes Missing Before Wedding

CHANDIGARH, Dec 7: A Dubai-returned groom and his entourage of 150 baraatis were shocked when they arrived in Moga, Punjab, only to find his bride missing and that the wedding venue did not exist. Deepak Kumar (24), who returned to Jalandhar from Dubai a month ago to marry Manpreet Kaur, who he had been talking to on Instagram for three years, but had never met, the police said. After the incident the groom lodged a complaint against the bride, [] The post Dubai-Returned Groom Duped, Bride Goes Missing Before Wedding appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Dubai-returned groom duped as Instagram bride vanishes, waits for escort to fake venue for hours in Punjab

CHANDIGARH: A Dubai-returned groom and his entourage of 150 'baraatis' were shocked when they arrived in Moga, Punjab, only to find his bride missing and that the wedding venue did not exist. Deepak Kumar (24), who returned to Jalandhar from Dubai a month ago to marry Manpreet Kaur, who he had been talking to on Instagram for three years, but had never met, the police said. After the incident the groom lodged a complaint against the bride, they said. According to the police, the two had connected on Instagram three years ago but had never met in person. Deepak said that he along with his family travelled from Mandiali village in Jalandhar to Moga for his wedding at the venue, as communicated by the bride. Upon reaching Moga, the bride's family told that some people would escort him and his family to the wedding venue. However, even after waiting till 5 pm, no one showed up, he said. He said they asked locals about the venue 'Rose Garden palace' but they informed that there was no such place in Moga. The groom said that he worked as a labourer in Dubai and had been in touch with Kaur through Instagram for three years. He had seen her photos but never met her in person. Their parents had arranged the wedding over phone calls, officials said, adding that he also claimed to have transferred Rs 50,000 to her earlier. Deepak's father Prem Chand said he along with 150 'baraatis' came for the wedding, and that he had already hired taxis, paid for catering and a videographer. Kaur hails from Moga and had earlier told that she works in Ferozepur, he said. The marriage was fixed after speaking to her parents over the phone and guests were invited for the wedding, Chand said. Meanwhile, Moga Assistant Sub-Inspector Harjinder Singh said they have received a complaint from Deepak Kumar. He said the complaint was lodged after the groom's family could not reach the bride as her phone was switched off. Further investigation in the matter is underway, he said.

Rape accused held by GRP Jammu

Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 6: Government Railway Police (GRP) Jammu today arrested an individual, who was wanted in a rape case. Sudham Hussain alias Satam Hussain of Dhadda, Tehsil and District Jalandhar, Punjab, was wanted in case FIR number 09/2024 registered under sections 70(2), 127(3), 137(2) of the BNS Act and section 4 of the POCSO Act registered at Police Station Kathua, said a GRP official. He was arrested today from Punjab, said the police official. The post Rape accused held by GRP Jammu appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

JP Cricket Academy clinches series by 2-1

Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 5: In an exciting three-match series between Sukhminder Mand Cricket Academy from Jalandhar and JP Cricket Academy from Jammu (U-14), held at Sai Dass School, Jalandhar, JP Cricket Academy emerged victorious, winning the series by 2-1. The event was graced by BJP leader Vikrant Gupta, who attended as the chief guest. He emphasized the importance of supporting young talent in sports, inspiring the budding cricketers participating in the tournament. The series proved to be a [] The post JP Cricket Academy clinches series by 2-1 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Punjab MLA Khaira pushes for law to restrict non-Punjabis from buying agricultural land

CHANDIGARH: Citing the examples of Gujarat, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, Congress MLA from Bholath and former Leader of the Opposition, Sukhpal Singh Khaira, has called for the enactment of a law to prevent non-Punjabis from purchasing agricultural land in Punjab. He argues that the state's demography is changing due to an influx of outsiders buying land and houses in towns, cities, and villages across Punjab. Speaking to this newspaper, Khaira said it has been nearly two years since he moved a proposal in the Punjab Assembly in January 2023 for a law similar to Section 118 of the Himachal Pradesh Tenancy and Land Reforms Act, 1972. This provision bars non-Himachalis and non-agriculturists from purchasing agricultural land in the hill state. All these states (Gujarat, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand) have laws that require outsiders to fulfil certain conditions before settling in their territories, he said. I am not against people coming to the state or building walls to keep them out, as the US has proposed for Mexicans. But there must be regulations in place. Khaira emphasised the urgency of such legislation in Punjab. It has been almost two years since the bill was introduced in the state assembly. Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan has sent me letters stating that the bill has been forwarded to the Department of Revenue, Rehabilitation, and Disaster Management for their opinion due to financial implications. This is merely a tactic to delay the implementation of the bill. He expressed his concerns about the lack of action, saying, I believe they are hesitant to reject it outright because they fear backlash. This is a burning issue in Punjab, and people are agitated over why our state government is not enacting laws like those in other states. There have been incidents of crime and law-and-order issues, like the recent killing of two boys in Mohali. Khaira highlighted the demographic changes in areas such as Jagatpura village in SAS Nagar district, where the non-Punjabi population has around 8,000 to 9,000 registered votes compared to the original populations 1,000 votes. A few panchayats have passed resolutions banning migrants. Why leave this issue to panchayats when the government has the authority to enact laws? he asked. Khaira also accused political parties of inaction due to electoral concerns. Political parties fear opposing the influx of outsiders because they do not want to alienate this voter base, especially in cities like Ludhiana, Jalandhar, and Amritsar, he said. Their argument is that our children have migrated to countries like the US and Canada, but those countries also have strict norms and conditions for migrants. The original populations of those countries are not being displaced, unlike in Punjab, where the native population is migrating, leading to a potentially disastrous demographic shift. To raise awareness, Khaira announced plans to tour the state and educate people about the importance of the proposed legislation. Approximately 75 to 80 lakh Punjabis have migrated abroad, while around 50 lakh migrants from other states have settled in Punjab. They have taken over small trades, such as selling fruits and vegetables, running rehris, and working in sanitary and hardware industries, as well as industrial labour. They are also buying small houses in city centres, while locals move to the outskirts into bigger homes, he said. He further claimed that migrants from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Nepal, and Bangladesh have increasingly settled in Punjab. Muslims and Gujjars have also established communities here. If this trend is not curtailed, Punjabis, particularly Sikhs, will become a minority in their own motherland within a few decades. When asked why other political parties had not supported his cause, Khaira replied, The Akalis, as a regional party, should have taken this up, but they have not. The BJP benefits from the non-Punjabi population moving to the state, and it suits the AAP as well. The Congress fears losing its vote bank among Jat Sikhs if they take a stand. In a letter dated November 30 to Speaker Sandhwan, Khaira reiterated his demand to introduce the Private Member Bill in the upcoming winter session of the Vidhan Sabha. As you are aware, I submitted the said bill on January 23, 2023, for discussion. I once again request its introduction in the winter session to allow a fair debate. Let the people of Punjab know the stance of their elected representatives on this vital issue. If the bill is defeated, I will withdraw my argument, he wrote.

AAP gears up for municipal corporation elections in Punjab with strategy meetings

CHANDIGARH: With the focus on devising strategies to strengthen the Aam Aadmi Partys presence in urban local bodies and intensify its outreach programs, the party has begun laying the groundwork for the upcoming municipal corporation elections with a series of high-level meetings led by state party president Aman Arora. The meetings, held at the party office in Chandigarh, brought together key party leaders, MLAs, district in-charges and organisational teams from across the state to strategise for the elections. The meetings focused on devising strategies to strengthen the AAPs presence in urban local bodies. Feedback from district-level leaders and party workers was actively sought to ensure a grassroots-driven campaign. The party plans to intensify its outreach programs, ensure active participation from all organizational levels, and prioritize the selection of competent candidates for the upcoming elections. Speaking on the partys prospects, Arora said, We are confident of setting new records in the municipal corporation elections. The people of Punjab have seen our work and know that AAP delivers on its promises. Together, we are paving the way for a transparent, honest and development-focused administration in urban governance. Arora announced that the party would soon start accepting applications for municipal corporation election candidates. The selection process will prioritize merit, integrity, and the ability to serve the people effectively. The day-long schedule included detailed discussions with teams from Patiala, Phagwara, Jalandhar and Ludhiana divisions, as well as state-level leaders. Arora emphasized the importance of meticulous planning and active engagement with grassroots workers. He stated, The Aam Aadmi Party is committed to delivering transparent and accountable governance. The upcoming municipal corporation elections are an opportunity to replicate the trust and goodwill we have earned across Punjab. The leaders expressed enthusiasm about the AAPs recent bypoll victories, which have boosted morale across the party cadre. The workers energy and dedication were lauded, with leaders asserting that the people of Punjab continue to stand with the AAP government for its people-centric policies.

BJP makes inroads into Punjabs rural belt in membership drive

CHANDIGARH: For the first time, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Punjab has managed to make some inroads into the rural areas of the state. In its ongoing membership drive, the party has gained members from the hinterlands. However, the overall response to the membership drive has been mixed, with the BJP enrolling 6.68 lakh members in Punjab and Chandigarh (Union Territory) so far. The nationwide membership drive began on September 2, but in Punjab, it has been extended until mid-December. The Punjab unit of the BJP had set an ambitious target of enrolling 30 lakh members. In the previous membership drive, the party enrolled over 24 lakh primary members in the state, compared to 3.50 lakh members in 2014. According to party data, 6,68,354 members have been enrolled in Punjab and Chandigarh, of which 5,02,160 have completed their registration forms3,88,590 in Punjab and 1,13,570 in Chandigarh. Additionally, approximately 1.50 lakh forms, mostly from rural areas, have been physically filled out and sent to the party office. These forms are yet to be updated in the system, sources revealed. Among the 117 assembly constituencies in the state, notable rural enrolment numbers include Jalalabad (1,738), Gidderbaha (5,548), Balluana (2,001), Jaito (1,186), Bathinda (Rural) (5,213), Sardulgarh (2,442), Lehra (1,528), Patiala (Rural) (4,473), and Sanour (2,621). Conversely, some rural constituencies like Banga (371), Chabbewal (796), Sham Chaurasi (400), Urmar (481), and Bholath (604) showed lower engagement. In urban constituencies, the drive saw stronger participation, including Kharar (5,342), SAS Nagar (15,150), Khanna (1,518), Ludhiana (East) (15,368), Ludhiana (Central) (11,133), Jalandhar (Cantonment) (4,190), Jalandhar (North) (11,906), Jalandhar (Central) (12,296), Jalandhar (West) (3,793), Amritsar (North) (4,723), Amritsar (West) (4,639), Amritsar (Central) (6,128), Sujanpur (6,264), Pathankot (5,302), and Gurdaspur (3,727). A senior party leader commented on the response, saying, It is a mixed responsegood in some places and okay in others. Last time, during the membership drive, the party was in power at both the Centre and the state, which had an impact. Now, being in opposition in Punjab affects participation. But, for the first time, the membership has been conducted scientifically, with missed calls followed by detailed forms and photographs. This ensures we have authentic data and genuine members. The leader added that the BJP previously contested only 23 assembly seats, primarily in urban areas, and had little to no cadre in rural regions. With the party now expanding its base, members are being enrolled in villages for the first time, and a proper cadre is expected to develop soon. However, sources within the party attributed the lukewarm response to internal issues, such as a lack of effort from state leaders. This is reportedly due to differences between traditional party leaders and those who switched from the Congress and Shiromani Akali Dal just before the 2022 assembly elections and the recent Lok Sabha polls. Another senior leader noted, For the last few months, the state unit president, Sunil Jakhar, has not attended meetings or campaigned in the panchayat polls and assembly by-elections, as he had submitted his resignation, which has yet to be accepted. This has created uncertainty. Many other state leaders are also keeping a low profile. As a result, the membership drive has been affected, and now the focus is shifting to the upcoming elections in four municipalities. The same leader further remarked, There is total confusion within the party on several issues, including the membership drive. While the veteran leaders feel sidelined due to the prominence given to leaders from other parties, those who recently joined are still adapting to the partys organisational culture. Despite its inability to secure a single seat in the recent Lok Sabha polls, the BJP witnessed a significant increase in its vote share, rising to 19.56%. This marked the first time since 1996 that the BJP contested solo in Punjab.

Punjab govt in fix as Army seeks 300 units of free power per month for its personnel

CHANDIGARH: Citing the free power given by the Delhi government to service personnel posted there, the Indian Army has approached the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab and requested that 300 units of free power per month be given to its personnel posted in the state. This has left the cash-strapped government in a Catch-22 situation as it already has to pay a Rs 9,076 crore power subsidy bill to the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL). Sources said the South Western Command of the Indian Army has written a letter to the state government saying that though the latter has been giving 300 units of free power to domestic consumers since July 2022, this has not been extended to service personnel and defence civilians residing in accommodations for married people in cantonments and military stations in Punjab. While the demand has been made only by the South Western Command, which has its formations located in Bathinda and a few other places in Malwa region of the state, if the state government extends this free power facility to army personnel, it will have to do so for army cantonments and formations at Jalandhar, Ferozepur, Patiala, Amritsar and Pathankot too. It is learnt that over one lakh troops are presently stationed across the state. All officers and junior commissioned officers (JCO) are authorised for family accommodation as are 35 per cent of jawans. In addition, a large number of civilian employees of the Defence Ministry posted at these places are also entitled for accommodation. A senior officer on condition of anonymity said the request by the army is now being discussed at the top level in the state government as it has put them in a fix. Free power subsidy cannot be given to the residents in cantonments and military stations as these stations get bulk power supply. The subsidy is given to individual domestic consumers, he argued. He further said that the bulk supply is given to BSF, Indian Railways, CPWD and other central government entities besides big industry. If any policy decision has to be taken, it will taken at the top level and will be for all bulk consumers, he said. The free electricity scheme of 300 units has led to a surge in domestic connections, raising consumption and projected subsidy costs, thus risking PSPCL's financial stability. The number of domestic electricity connections has increased by 80,000 after this scheme was launched in 2022. Before the launch of this scheme, the corporation had approved 5.5 lakh new domestic electricity connections between 2020 and 2022 but the number rose to 6.27 lakh between 2022 and 2024. The average annual rise in new connections used to be around 2.2 lakh, but the introduction of the free electricity scheme saw 3.65 lakh new connections in 2022-23, followed by 2.63 lakh in 2023-24. It is estimated that nearly one lakh of these new connections are split connections apparently created to take advantage of the 300-unit subsidy, said sources. When this scheme was launched, 63 lakh out of 74.6 lakh consumers were using less than 300 units of electricity per month. The number of domestic consumers with zero bills has since surged, climbing from 67.53 per cent in August 2022 to 89 per cent by the end of the 2022-23 financial year. The PSPCL data shows that domestic power usage reached 17,510 million units in 2022-23. The state government is hard pressed to pay the power subsidy to PSPCL due to its own poor fiscal health. Till November 13, the government could only pay Rs 4,508.2 crore to PSPCL out of the total subsidy due to be paid by it for free domestic power. Of the total subsidy bill of Rs 20,477 crore, Rs 11,401.26 crore has been paid. In this month, besides the subsidy of Rs 200 crore paid to the corporation, the state government has given them a grant-in-aid of Rs 2,387 crore. It is estimated that the total domestic power subsidy bill of the state government is already expected to be Rs 8,785 crore, an increase of Rs 1,550 crore over the last financial year.

NIA Conducts Searches Against Terror-Gangster Syndicate Involved In Smuggling Arms Into India

New Delhi, Nov 27: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Wednesday conducted searches at nine locations in multiple states as part of a probe into a conspiracy by terror outfits to smuggle arms and ammunition into the country, according to an official statement. NIA teams searched the premises of suspects in the terror-gangster syndicate case in Palwal, Faridabad and Gurugram districts of Haryana, Jalandhar district of Punjab, and Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh, it said. A host of incriminating materials, [] The post NIA Conducts Searches Against Terror-Gangster Syndicate Involved In Smuggling Arms Into India appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

NIA Searches in 3 States in Bambiha Terrorist Gangster Syndicate Case

New Delhi: In a massive crackdown in the terror-gangster nexus case, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Wednesday conducted extensive searches at premises linked with associates of Davinder Bambiha syndicate at nine locations in the states of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. The NIA teams conducted searches at premises of suspects in the terror-gangster syndicate case in Palwal, Faridabad and Gurugram districts of Haryana, Jalandhar district of Punjab, and Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh. A host of incriminating materials, including mobiles/digital devices, banking transactions and property related documents, were seized during the searches. The searches were part of NIA's continuous crackdown on terror outfits engaged in criminal conspiracies to smuggle terrorist hardware, such as arms, ammunition, narcotics, explosives etc, into India. The NIA investigations in the case RC 22/2023/NIA/DLI, registered on the directions of the Ministry of Home Affairs further show large-scale attempts by these organisations and terrorists to raise funds for carrying out terror acts on the Indian soil.

2 Bishnoi Gang Members Arrested After Dramatic Chase, Shootout In Punjab

Two members of the notorious Bishnoi gang were arrested after a dramatic chase and a shootout in Punjab's Jalandhar this morning. Three pistols and several cartridges have been seized from them, the police said in a statement.

Punjab Police arrests two associates of Lawrence Bishnoi gang

Chandigarh: Two associates of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang were held following an exchange of fire in Jalandhar, Punjab Police said on Wednesday. Both the criminals were facing many cases, including murder and extortion, they said, adding three weapons along with cartridges have been recovered from them. Jalandhar Commissionerate Police (@CPJalandhar) apprehends two associates of the Lawrence Bishnoi Gang in #Jalandhar after a hot chase and shootout, Punjab Police said in a post on X. The police opened fire in retaliation after the suspects fired at them during the chase. The arrested individuals have multiple cases registered against them, including Extortion, Murder, Arms Act & NDPS Act, it said in a post on X.

AAPs Shukrana Yatra in Patiala marks victory, sets stage for 2027 polls

CHANDIGARH: The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab held its Shukrana Yatra today in Patiala, expressing gratitude to voters after its victory in three assembly seats during the November 20 by-elections and the appointment of new leadership. This event also signalled the beginning of a focused campaign for the upcoming 2027 Punjab assembly elections. Incidentally, the Yatra coincided with the foundation day of the Aam Aadmi Party. The Yatra was led by AAP Punjab President and state cabinet minister Aman Arora, who was joined by prominent party leaders, including AAP Punjab working president Amansher Singh Sharry Kalsi, cabinet ministers Harpal Singh Cheema, Harjot Singh Bains, and Tarunpreet Singh Sondh, assembly speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan, AAP MLAs, chairpersons, and thousands of enthusiastic supporters from across the state. AAP Punjab President Aman Arora expressed his gratitude to the people, stating, AAP has grown from strength to strength, driven by the dedication and hard work of its leaders, volunteers, and workers. This journey, led by Arvind Kejriwal and supported by every AAP worker, has been one of integrity, transparency, and commitment to the people. Arora further added, Their (workers and volunteers) dedication to the party's principles and their tireless work for the betterment of Punjab and the nation have been pivotal in making AAP the peoples party. Together, AAP will continue to make strides toward a brighter future for all. The Yatra began at Kali Mata Mandir in Patiala and passed through several towns and cities, including Madopur Chawnk, Gobindgarh, Samrala, Doraha, Sahnewal, Jalandhar By-pass, Ladowal Chawnk in Ludhiana, Phagwara, Jalandhar, Kartarpur, and Rayia. The procession made its way towards the Golden Temple, Durgiana Mandir, and concluded at the sacred Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Asthan and Ram Tirath Mandir in Amritsar. Throughout the Yatra, Arora and other leaders were welcomed with flowers and chants of Inquilab Zindabad, receiving overwhelming support from party workers and locals alike. Today marks not only a day of celebration but also a reaffirmation of our commitment to the people of Punjab. The Shukrana Yatra is a reflection of the peoples trust in the Aam Aadmi Party and our leadership. With every step, we are reminded of the responsibility entrusted to us. This Yatra is a promise to the people of Punjab that we will continue working tirelessly to improve their lives. We are committed to bringing a brighter, more prosperous future to our state. The victory in the by-elections is a testament to the hard work of our party workers and the belief that the people of Punjab have in us. We will ensure that their faith is never betrayed, said Arora. He further added that AAP is a party of its volunteers. Our volunteers are the backbone of this party, and it is their dedication that drives us forward. Whatever our volunteers want, we will ensure it is done. They hold the real power in AAP, and their welfare will always remain our top priority. We will continue to work for their well-being, as they are the true force behind every success of this party, he said. Arora also acknowledged the leadership of Arvind Kejriwal, Bhagwant Mann, and the dedicated workers of AAP. Sharry Kalsi, the AAP Punjab Working President, also spoke during the Yatra. This Shukrana Yatra is a celebration of the trust the people have placed in us. As a party, we are dedicated to fulfilling the promises we have made to the people, and we will continue to work relentlessly to improve the lives of every Punjabi, he said.

Aam Aadmi Party to hold Shukrana Yatra from Patiala to Amritsar tomorrow

CHANDIGARH: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) will organize a Shukrana Yatra from Patiala to Amritsar on November 26 to celebrate the appointment of Aman Arora as the new state president and Amansher Singh, alias Sherry Kalsi, as the working president of the party. The yatra also marks the party's significant victories in three by-election seats. AAP leader and Punjab cabinet minister Tarunpreet Singh Sondh announced that the Yatra would begin at the famous Kali Mata Temple in Patiala. It will proceed through several significant locations, including the Golden Temple, Durgiana Temple, and Ram Teerth Temple in Amritsar. Sondh detailed the route, stating that the Yatra would start from Kali Mata Temple in Patiala and pass through Sirhind, Mandi Gobindgarh, Khanna, Doraha, Ludhiana, Ladowal Toll Plaza, Phillaur, Jalandhar, and Kartarpur Sahib before reaching Sachkhand Sri Darbar Sahib (Golden Temple). After offering prayers there, the Yatra will proceed to the Durgiana Temple and then visit the Valmiki Ram Teerth Temple before concluding its journey. AAP leads as Congress, BJP struggle in Punjab by-elections, says Punjab AAP President Aman Arora He highlighted that the decision to hold this Yatra was inspired by the overwhelming enthusiasm of party workers and leaders following the recent by-election victories. The people of Punjab have once again shown their trust in the Aam Aadmi Party, and we are grateful for their support, Sondh stated. He further emphasised that the mandate reflects public approval of the AAP government's work in Punjab over the past two and a half years. This victory is significant and encouraging for us. Meanwhile, those who were arrogant, believing they could never lose, have been taught a lesson. The people have shown that even individuals from ordinary households can rise to hold positions of power and become MLAs. Sondh appealed to the people of Punjab to participate in the Shukrana Yatra in large numbers and make it a resounding success.

Shootout in Punjab: Police arrest Two gangsters of Landa gang, recover weapons

Two gangsters of the Landa gang were arrested after a shootout on the outskirts of a village in Jalandhar district and seven weapons along with six magazines and cartridges each were recovered from their possession, Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav

Punjab police arrests two gangsters after a shootout in Jalandhar, seven weapons seized

CHANDIGARH: Punjab Police has arrested two gangsters of the infamous Landa gang following an intense shootout on the outskirts of Pholriwal village in Jalandhar. Seven weapons along with six magazines and six cartridges were also recovered from their possession. Director General of Police, Punjab Gaurav Yadav said that those arrested have been identified as Jaskaran alias Karan, a resident of Bheekha Nangal in Kartarpur and Fatehdeep Singh alias Pardeep Saini, a resident of Mohalla Thanedaara at Mehli Gate in Phagwara. Both the accused persons were apprehended in connection with a case registered at Police Station Sadar, Jalandhar. Yadav said that following an intel input about the presence of criminals associated with the Landa gang in the area of Jalandhar Commissionerate, police teams under the supervision of Commissioner of Police Jalandhar Swapan Sharma launched an extensive operation and traced their location near Pholriwal village. During the high-stakes chase, the gangsters opened fire on the pursuing police teams, prompting police parties to retaliate, he said, while adding that during the exchange of fire, both the accused persons as well as two police officers suffered bullet injuries. Over 50 shots were fired on both sides during the operation, said Yadav. Sharing more details, Jalandhar Police Commissioner Swapan Sharma said that the arrested individuals were involved in numerous heinous crimes including extortion, murder and attempt to murder. The accused persons were also instrumental in providing logistical support to other gang members and supplying weapons to criminal outfits, he added. Sharma said that preliminary investigations have revealed both gangsters were directly in touch with Landa and were hatching a conspiracy to eliminate two people belonging to their rival gang. He said that the injured gangsters and police officers were undergoing medical treatment at a local hospital. Further investigations are underway to uncover their network and possible linkages to other criminal groups, he added.

UP: Life term for man who raped Dalit girl, uploaded video online leading to her suicide

Maharajganj: A 34-year-old man here has been sentenced to life imprisonment by a local court for molesting a Dalit girl and then circulating a video of the act online, leading to the victim's suicide, a lawyer said on Tuesday. Special Judge (SC-ST Act) court Sanjay Mishra on Monday convicted Jalandhar Rai and also imposed a fine of Rs 15,000 on him, Assistant District Government Counsel (ADGC) Phanindra Kumar Tripathi said. According to the prosecution, the incident took place on January 11, 2020 when Rai took the girl to an isolated place and molested her. He also made objectionable videos of the act and circulated it online, besides threatening to kill the girl. Further, a few days later, the girl came to know about the videos after which she hanged herself to death from a tree outside the village, which fell in the Nichlaul police station area, the prosecution said. The girl's father had filed a complaint after which a case was lodged against Rai under various sections of the erstwhile IPC, including 376 (rape), 506 (criminal intimidation),306 (suicide abetment), 554 (assault or criminal force with intent to outrage modesty), Tripathi said. The police had also invoked provisions of the Information Technology Act and the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act in the case, he said. Special Judge Sanjay Mishra convicted the accused and sentenced him to life imprisonment after holding him guilty of the charges. The judge also imposed a fine of Rs 15,000 on the convict, the ADGC said. Failure to pay the penalty would result in his sentence being increased for another one month as per the court order, he added.

Punjab reports season's highest stubble burning cases as Haryana AQI touches 'severe' levels

CHANDIGARH: The highest number of stubble burning cases in this season, at 1,251 incidents, were reported in Punjab on Monday increasing the total number of reported cases this year to 9.655, according to data by the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PCCB). The Air Quality Index (AQI) level in the state was in the 'Poor category, while in Haryana five towns were in the 'Severe category and six places in the 'Very Poor category. Of the total 1,251 incidents reported on Monday, 247 cases were in Muktsar district followed by 149 in Moga, 130 incidents of stubble-burning were in Ferozepur, 129 in Bathinda, 94 in Fazilka, 88 in Faridkot, 77 in Tarn Taran and 73 in Sangrur. Ludhiana had 52 cases, Barnala 42 incidents, 40 in Mansa and Amritsar had 36 reported cases and Marelkotla had 34. Meanwhile on Sunday, 404 stubble burning cases were reported across the state, of which 74 new cases were from Ferozepur and 70 in Bathinda. An environmental compensation of Rs 1.35 crore had been imposed for 3,943 cases till November 15. As per the central pollution control board, the AQI levels of both Amritsar and Jalandhar around 7.30 pm were 241 in the 'Poor' category. Khanna was 143 in the 'Moderate' category and Ludhiana, Patiala and Rupnagar all three were at 262 and Mandi Gobindgarh was 213 - all in the 'Poor' category. While the AQI level of Chandigarh was 270 at the Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Station (CAAQMS) in Sector 22, the AQI at around 7.30 pm on Monday was at 250 and that at CAAQMS Sector 53 was recorded at 240 and at the Sector 25 station it was 270. Ambala residents report breathing issues due to fog, pollution. In Haryana the Air Quality Index at Gurugram was 494, Dharuhera was 447, Bahadurgarh was 443, Faridabad was 432 and Bhiwani 405, all in the 'Severe category. While Jind was 387, Fatehabad was 383, Kaithal was 354, Karnal was 348, Palwal was 327, Narnaul was 320 - in the 'Very Poor category. Kurukshetra's AQI was 298, Mandikhera was at 293, Hisar at 281, Charkhi Dadri at 226 - all in the 'Poor' category. Only two places - Ambala and Panchkula - were in the 'Moderate category. In response to worsening air pollution, the Nuh Administration has declared holidays for schools up to class 5 from November 18 to November 22, according to an official order. As per the order from the office of the District Elementary Education Officer of Nuh, the holiday has been declared in all government, semi-government, and private schools in the Nuh district of Haryana. Sources pointed out that the PPCB is under scrutiny and facing allegations of under-reporting of farm fire incidents. The scientists monitoring the farm fires claimed that many farmers were setting paddy residue on fire post afternoon, dodging the satellite. While the pollution control board claimed have brought down farm fires by 70 per cent than previous years, farmers could be seen evading the satellite by setting the paddy residue on fire post 3 pm.

Chandigarh Diary | Punjab smoke on world tour: Mann to Maryam

Delhi has blamed Punjabs farm fires for the suffocating smog and Pakistans Punjab, too, has repeated the charge with Maryam Nawaz, CM of Pakistan side of Punjab, reportedly contemplating writing to CM Bhagwant Mann on the subject. To both -- Centre and Pakistan -- Mann came out with a witty quip: Looks like our Punjab smoke is on a world tour! Mann then sarcastically urged Maryam to write to him about her woes. Maryam has alleged polluted smoke travelling from this side of Punjab to Lahore where the air quality index has hit the highest level of pollution. Mann called for unity rather than finger-pointing . Mann shows his love for fans at poll rally At a bypoll rally in the state, Mann was greeted with an affectionate Bhai, love you. The Punjab CM, who was listing out his governments pro-people policies, when the same supporter added more sugar to his affection: Love you 2, 3 and 4 times. The CM paused before winsomely responding with: It (his appreciation) is 5, 6 and 7 times. He went on with his remarks about his love for the people. Anyone can meet him and take selfies. He said people were generally afraid of meeting leaders of other parties, as if they would be robbed of their valuables. Channi, Bittu & Neetu the fight goes on Old adversaries, former CM Charanjit Singh Channi and Union minister Ravneet Singh Bittu, were at it again during bypoll campaigning. While speaking at Barnala, Channi said that even Neetu Shattran Wala could become the CM but not Bittu. Neetu became a social media star after he wept inconsolably on camera claiming he had got just five votes in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections from Jalandhar though his family had nine members. In his response, Bittu said that it was for the first time that a CM lost from both seats that he contested in the 2022 assembly elections. Bittu also accused Channi of being involved in a #MeToo case, claiming he had sent indecent messages to a senior IAS officer in November 2018. Harpreet Bajwa Our correspondent in Chandigarh hsbajwa73@gmail.com

Punjab Police dismantles UK-based extortion syndicate; 10 held with 7 pistols

Jalandhar (Punjab), Nov 14: Jalandhar Rural Police dismantled two separate criminal gangs, including a UK-based extortion syndicate, and arrested 10 hardcore criminals after recovering seven pistols along with 18 live cartridges and 10 magazines from their possession, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Thursday. Police teams have also impounded a car, a scooter, a motorcycle and a scooter being used by the arrested persons to carry out criminal activities. DGP Gaurav Yadav said that preliminary [] The post Punjab Police dismantles UK-based extortion syndicate; 10 held with 7 pistols appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Air quality 'poor' in large parts of Punjab, Haryana; Chandigarh 'very poor'

CHANDIGARH: The air quality in several parts of Punjab and Haryana was recorded in the 'poor' category on Saturday, while it was worst in the joint capital city of Chandigarh with an AQI of 322 which falls in the 'very poor' band. According to the Central Pollution Control Board's Sameer App, which provides hourly updates, Haryana's Bahadugarh recorded an Air Quality Index of 314 -- also in the 'very poor' category at 9 am. Among other places in Haryana, the AQI at Sonipat was 290, Hisar (285), Bhiwani (277), Jind (275), Charkhi Dadri (258), Gurugram (259), Faridabad (220), Yamunanagar (213), Rohtak (238), Kurukshetra (202), Kaithal (205), Fatehabad (198), Ambala (160), Sirsa (181), and Karnal (144). In Punjab, the AQI was registered at 264 in Mandi Gobindgarh, 258 in Amritsar, 257 in Rupnagar, 248 in Jalandhar, 197 in Ludhiana, 183 in Bathinda, 176 in Khanna, and 133 in Patiala. An AQI between zero and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', 401 and 450 'severe' and above 450 'severe plus'. The rise in air pollution levels in the two states and Delhi during this time of year is often blamed on farm fires. Punjab reported 730 farm fire incidents on Friday, taking the total count to 6,029 in the state this season. As the window for the Rabi crop -- wheat -- is very short after paddy harvest, some farmers set their fields on fire to quickly clear off the crop residue for sowing of the next crop.

Shooters in Baba Siddique case lured with car, Dubai trip offer

Mumbai: In the Oct 12 murder case of former minister and NCP leader Baba Siddique, four of the 18 suspects in custody revealed that they were promised Rs 25 lakh, a car, a flat, and a Dubai trip. This incentive came to light during their police interrogation. On Wednesday, the Mumbai crime branch apprehended two additional suspects from Pune for their alleged roles in the conspiracy. Ramphoolchand Kanojia (43), arrested earlier in October, reportedly promised four of the accusedRupesh Mohol (22), Shivam Kohad (20), Karan Salve (19), and Gaurav Apune (23)the hefty rewards. According to police sources, Kanojia was to receive funding from Zeeshan Akhtar (23), a wanted individual from Jalandhar, Punjab, who allegedly managed over 10 bank accounts and transferred over Rs 4 lakh to facilitate the assassination. The newly arrested suspects, Aditya Gulankar (22) and Rafique Shaikh (22), were produced before the Esplanade court and remanded to police custody until Nov 13. Police revealed that Gulankar had been trained in firearms handling near Khadakwasla, Pune, in preparation for the crime. Investigators discovered that Gulankar and Shaikh had contact with previously arrested individuals, Pravin Lonkar and Mohol, who supplied a Turkish pistol and ammunition intended for the murder. The pistol was later recovered from Lonkars residence, along with a country-made firearm seized from Kanojias Panvel home. In total, five weapons and 64 bullets have been recovered, including Turkish and Australian-made pistols. Siddique was shot outside his office in Bandra East by three gunmen, two of whom were apprehended at the scene. Police are still seeking the third gunman. The case involves accused individuals from Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Pune, but the motive behind the murder remains unclear.