Punjabs Rs 12,700 crore NH projects stalled; Rs 828 crore PMGSY road works scrapped over delays

CHANDIGARH: Multiple key road infrastructure projects in Punjab including major national highway developments and those under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-III (PMGSY), are facing serious setbacks, with no clear timeline for completion. As many as sixteen national highway projects worth 12,700 crore, being implemented by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Punjab Public Works Department (PWD), have either been stalled, significantly delayed, or face termination. The primary reasons cited are land acquisition hurdles and delays in obtaining statutory clearances. Simultaneously, rural road development has also taken a hit. Projects under PMGSY-III worth 828.87 crore, involving the upgradation of 64 roads and construction of 38 bridges, have been scrapped due to the state governments failure to float tenders and commence construction on time. Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, in a written reply to Congress MP Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, confirmed that eight projects are being executed by NHAI and another eight by the state PWD, all of which have encountered delays or stoppages. Projects in the state of Punjab are mainly delayed, stalled, or terminated due to land acquisition issues and delay in obtaining statutory clearances. The government is taking requisite measures, in consultation with stakeholders including the state government, to resolve these issues, the Minister stated in Parliament. Key Affected Projects Under NHAI DelhiAmritsarKatra Expressway (Spur-II): 30.5 km stretch worth 2,197.17 crore terminated due to lack of land; fresh bids to be invited once land is acquired. DelhiAmritsarKatra Expressway (Spur-III): 28.07 km stretch worth 1,951.70 crore delayed, now scheduled for completion by 30 November 2026. AmritsarBathinda (Package-I): 39 km project worth 1,229.38 crore, originally set to finish by November 2024, now delayed until 31 December 2026. AmritsarGhomanTandaUna (Package-I): 45.73 km stretch worth 1,443.47 crore also delayed, with a new completion target of 30 June 2026. Package-II of this corridor (31.05 km, 818.41 crore) has been terminated due to land issues. The LudhianaRupnagar corridor has also been severely affected: Package-I (37.7 km, 1,368.91 crore): Work halted after the contractor issued a termination notice over delayed land handover; matter is under review by a Conciliation Committee. Package-II (47.24 km, 1,488.23 crore): Terminated for similar reasons; re-tendering will occur post land possession. Projects Delayed Under Punjab PWD JalandharHoshiarpur (NH-3, 39.13 km): Sanctioned for 1,069.59 crore, awarded in 2017, now facing termination due to persistent land acquisition delays. Widening of a 3.57 km stretch of same highway (15.04 crore): Facing right-of-way constraints; revised completion date: 30 November 2025. MakhuArifke (NH-703A, 24.6 km): Worth 192.48 crore, including two ROBs, now rescheduled to finish by 31 December 2025 (original deadline was May 2021). ROB at Fazilka (NH-07, 38.02 crore): Delayed due to pending railway clearances, now progressing with a target completion date of 31 October 2025. ArifkeFerozepurMuktsarMalout (NH-354, 63.27 km, 263.19 crore): Delayed due to NOCs from the Irrigation Department and land issues. Muktsar SahibMalout section (27.66 km, 152.58 crore): Toll plaza construction stalled; PWD advised to redesign within available land. PMGSY Projects Worth 828 Crore Scrapped Road and bridge projects sanctioned under PMGSY-III have been scrapped due to the Punjab governments inability to initiate work before the required deadline of 31 March. The Centre had sanctioned 64 rural roads (628.48 km) and 38 bridges (each over 15 metres in length) for a total of 828.87 crore. Some of these were located in sensitive border districts such as Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Pathankot, and Tarn Taran. In correspondence with the Union Ministry of Rural Development, Punjabs PWD stated that many of these roads were recommended for urgent repairs by Members of Parliament and were of utmost importance. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also wrote to Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan requesting reconsideration, stating that without these bridges, the completed roads would be of little use. However, the Centre responded that only projects tendered and already under construction by the original March 2025 deadline now extended to March 2026 would be allowed to continue. Works which have started on the ground but are not feasible to continue further shall be foreclosed, the Ministry clarified. Sources revealed that 59 of the roadworks were to be implemented using Full Depth Reclamation (FDR) technology, for which very few consultancy firms in India have adequate expertise another contributing factor to the delays. With Punjabs road infrastructure plans facing widespread disruption, the delays pose serious questions over administrative efficiency, land management, and inter-agency coordination at both the state and central levels.

Chandigarh, Uttarakhand win; Himachal-J&K settle for draw in Junior Men National Hockey

JALANDHAR, Aug 14: Chandigarh and Uttarakhand won their respective games while Himachal and Jammu and Kashmir settled for draws on the third day of the 15th Hockey India Junior Men National Championship Division B here on Thursday. The day began with the Division B match between Himachal and Jammu & Kashmir which ended in a 5-5 draw as both sides shared points. In the second match of the day, Chandigarh enjoyed a narrow 4-3 win against Arunachal in their Division [] The post Chandigarh, Uttarakhand win; Himachal-J&K settle for draw in Junior Men National Hockey appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Prayers held at Jalandhar gurdwara in Satyapal Malik's memory

Punjab records over one lakh dog bite cases with daily 882 incidents in five years amid rising concerns

CHANDIGARH: Punjab has recorded a staggering rise of more than one lakh dog bite cases in the last five years, with daily averages now touching 882 incidents. The state, which has around 6.5 lakh dogs, including over three lakh stray dogs, has witnessed a sharp increase in cases, with officials warning of the public health risks. In the first seven months of this year alone, a total of 1.88 lakh dog bite cases have been reported, while last years total stood at 2.13 lakh. The worst affected districts are Jalandhar, Ludhiana and Patiala. As per the official data accessed by this newspaper from the state health department, between January and July this year, Amritsar district recorded the highest number of cases at 29,504, followed by Ludhiana (21,777), Patiala (14,120), Jalandhar (12,349), Hoshiarpur (10,920) and SAS Nagar (9,860). There has been a steady jump in incidents over the past five years, 1.10 lakh cases in 2020, 1.26 lakh in 2021, 1.65 lakh in 2022, 2.02 lakh in 2023, and 2.13 lakh in 2024, reflecting a rise of more than one lakh cases during the period. This year, three deaths have been reported. Last month, a mother and daughter allegedly died of rabies in Pathankot, and on July 17, a 32-year-old man succumbed in Patiala after being bitten by a stray dog. An analysis of data from 2020 to 2024 shows Jalandhar district has recorded the highest total of 1.12 lakh cases over the four years, followed by Ludhiana (99,678), Patiala (63,782), Hoshiarpur (56,113), SAS Nagar (55,286) and Amritsar (44,249). Stray dogs in Delhi: SC slams local authorities for inaction, reserves order According to the 2019 animal census conducted by the state animal husbandry department, there were 2.90 lakh stray dogs and 3.32 lakh pet dogs in Punjab. The latest animal census has been completed this year but is yet to be notified. There has been an increase of 5 per cent in the dog population in the state after the last census, said an official. Punjab Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh said vaccination for dog bites is available at all community health centres (CHCs) and treatment has now been extended to all Aam Aadmi Clinics across the state. The people should immediately rush to the nearest government health centres for treatment, which is free, and should not ignore it at all, he added. The health department is yet to issue standard operating procedures (SOPs) for government doctors, whose diagnosis will determine compensation for dog bite cases. Although SOPs have been formulated, they have not been circulated. A five-member committee was constituted following an order from the Punjab and Haryana High Court last year, which announced compensation of Rs 10,000 for each tooth mark and Rs 20,000 for every 0.2 cm of wound where the flesh is torn off, said sources. A veterinary expert said that in 50 per cent of dog bite cases, the culprit is a pet dog biting its owner or someone else, not a stray. However, the general perception remains that stray dogs are primarily responsible. Sources added that the animal birth control (ABC) programme to sterilise dogs has been outsourced to private agencies by most municipalities under the local bodies department, but it has not achieved the desired results, particularly in major cities. Sterilisation is the only scientific method to control the stray dog population and thus, in turn, can reduce dog bite incidents, said a senior officer on condition of anonymity. It was also pointed out that there are few dog shelters in large municipalities across the state for post-animal care under the birth control set-up, and no dedicated dog pounds exist.

Kerala, Puducherry, Cttisgarh win in Division C; Chandigarh, UK, Delhi rule in Division B

JUNIOR MENS HOCKEY JALANDHAR, Aug 13: Kerala Hockey, Le Puducherry Hockey, Chhattisgarh Hockey, and Goans Hockey win in Division C while Hockey Chandigarh, Hockey Uttarakhand, and Delhi emerge victorious in their Division B league matches on Day 2 of the 15th Hockey India Junior Men National Championship here on Wednesday. The day began with a [] The post Kerala, Puducherry, Cttisgarh win in Division C; Chandigarh, UK, Delhi rule in Division B appeared first on The Shillong Times .

Here's why Punjab govt struggles to raise revenue to fund its populist schemes

CHANDIGARH: After scrapping the controversial land pooling scheme, the cash-strapped AAP-led Punjab government seems to have landed itself in trouble. It is presently struggling to raise revenue to fund its populist schemes. In order to secure a loan to fund the schemes, the government has asked the Housing and Urban Development Department to prepare an inventory of the Rs 20,000 crore worth of property belonging to the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) for auctioning. The properties to be auctioned, after consultations with the Finance Department, includes residential, commercial and industrial sites in Mohali. This matter was discussed at a recent meeting headed by Chief Secretary KAP Sinha. However, GMADA at present owes a loan of nearly Rs 5,000 crore to financial institutions. Interestingly, out of the eight urban development authorities, only GMADA and the Greater Ludhiana Area Development Authority are financially viable in the state. The other six housing authorities, Amritsar, Bathinda, Patiala, Jalandhar, Anandpur Sahib (Urban) and Dera Baba Nanak, are allegedly unable to even meet their expenditure. Sources further said that a part of the total inventory could be used to raise a loan from financial institutions to fund populist schemes, such as providing Rs 1,100 monthly assistance to women above 18 years of age. Defending the move, sources claimed that this kind of practice is not new, as previous governments had also mortgaged assets of the state to raise loans and had even pledged future income to raise resources. During the SAD-BJP rule, the then government had raised a loan of Rs 2,000 crore by mortgaging its properties to banks. Later, the properties were transferred to the Punjab Urban Development Authority (PUDA) for auction after developing them under the optimum utilisation of vacant government land scheme. On the other hand, sources said that the decisions on proposals received from deputy commissioners of some districts for increasing the collector rates have been kept in abeyance for the time being. While the government has increased the collector rates by 550 per cent in 12 districts, the proposals sent by administrations of some of the remaining districts to the state revenue department have so far not been implemented. The Ludhiana administration had sent a proposal to increase the collector rates by 2540 per cent, which is still awaiting approval. In Bathinda, the rates have been increased by five per cent, but the approval for a further increase in some of the posh areas is awaiting clearance from the revenue department. It is learnt that the state government allegedly wanted to increase the revenue collection from stamps and registration to Rs 7,000 crore this year, compared to Rs 5,750 crore earned last year. Sources said that the government is yet to issue a notification to scrap the land pooling scheme, which was scrapped amid opposition from farmers unions. The notification is being prepared, said an official, adding that the government is likely to summon a cabinet meeting for scrapping the policy. The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) has decided to continue its protest against the land pooling policy until an official notification regarding its withdrawal is issued. The farmer leaders have asked the state government to clarify the issue by August 20, or they would be forced to intensify their struggle. Senior SKM leader Balbir Singh Rajewal said the farmers rally, to be held on August 24 in Samrala regarding the land pooling policy and other demands of farmers and labourers, would be held as announced.

Punjab Police arrest five alleged BKI operatives from Rajasthan, seize arms, ammunition

CHANDIGARH: The Punjab Police has busted a Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) terror module with the arrest of five operatives, including three juveniles, from Tonk and Jaipur districts of Rajasthan, in what officials said was a Pakistan ISI-backed terror network. Director General of Police, Punjab, Gaurav Yadav said that the Counter Intelligence (CI) unit of Jalandhar, in a joint operation with SBS Nagar Police, arrested the suspects in a module operated by foreign-based handlers Mannu Agwan, Gopi Nawanshehria and Zeeshan Akhtar, on the directions of Pakistan-based BKI operative Harwinder Singh alias Rinda. Those arrested have been identified as Ritik Naroliya, a resident of Didawata village in Jaipur, Rajasthan; Sonu Kumar alias Kali, a resident of Kala Sanghian village in Kapurthala; and three juveniles. The police teams also recovered one 86P hand grenade and one .30 bore pistol along with two live cartridges and two empty shells. Yadav said the module had planned an attack inside a liquor store in SBS Nagar recently. It is worth mentioning that the same module had allegedly carried out a grenade attack at a liquor store in SBS Nagar on August 7. He further stated, The arrested accused were receiving direct instructions from foreign-based Zeeshan Akhtar and BKI mastermind Mannu Agwan, who is working in close coordination with Pakistan-based BKI operative Harwinder Rinda. We have successfully averted further planned attacks by this terror module. He added that the probe was ongoing to establish forward and backward linkages in the case. Sharing more details, AIG Counter Intelligence, Jalandhar, Navjot Mahal said that in an intelligence-led operation, all the five accused were arrested from areas in Tonk and Jaipur districts of Rajasthan. He added that during a follow-up recovery operation, the arrested accused Sonu alias Kali attempted to open fire at the police party. In self-defence, the police party retaliated, resulting in a bullet injury to accused Sonu alias Kali, he said, adding that the injured accused was immediately shifted to the Civil Hospital in SBS Nagar, where he is undergoing treatment. In this regard, an FIR under sections 109, 324(5) and 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and sections 3, 4 and 5 of the Explosive Substances Act has been registered at Police Station City Nawanshahr.

Daily Digest: SC Takes Up Bihar Voter List Case | Zelensky Calls PM Modi | Dharali Flood Aftermath

Bihar SIR Case in Supreme Court: SC hears pleas against ECs Special Intensive Revision in poll-bound Bihar; opposition MPs detained during protest march.Rahul vs EC: Rahul Gandhi refuses to sign oath documents, says EC data is already public; Govt accuses him of undermining constitutional bodies.Zelensky Dials PM Modi: Ukraine seeks Indias support for peace amid Trump tariff threats; PM reiterates call for early, peaceful resolution.Trump Tariff Tensions: Govt briefs Shashi Tharoor-led panel on US-India trade talks, tariff disputes, and market access.Karnataka Political Fallout: KN Rajanna resigns as minister; BJP slams Congress over emergency mindset.SC on Stray Dogs: Landmark order to sterilise and relocate strays in Delhi-NCR, with strict legal warnings against obstruction.Dharali Ground Report: Heartbreaking visuals after cloudburst destroyed homes, temples, and lives; CM Dhami orders strict construction ban near riverbanks.Plus: Cabinet meet at 1 PM, Tiranga Bike Rally in Delhi, flare-up in UPs Fatehpur, and Hockey Junior Mens Nationals in Jalandhar. n18oc_indian18oc_politicsn18oc_podcastNews18 Mobile App - https://onelink.to/desc-youtube

PM flags off Katra-Amritsar Vande Bharat after freight train arrives in Anantnag

NEW DELHI: A day after the first freight train arrived in south Kashmirs Anantnag district from Punjab, PM Narendra Modi flagged off the Amritsar-Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Vande Bharat Express train virtually from Bengaluru. The trains will boost tourism, commerce and connectivity, the PM said. The high-speed Vande Bharat train is expected to significantly enhance regional connectivity, reduce travel time and provide a world-class travel experience to the passengers. Union Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu said the new high-speed train will not only facilitate spiritual travel for devotees but will also boost tourism and trade between Katra and Amritsar. He emphasised that the modern and comfortable travel experience offered by the Vande Bharat will benefit passengers travelling to and from the region. The passengers boarding from Pathankot, Jalandhar and Beas would also benefit. The high-speed train would operate six days a week, excluding Tuesdays. The new Amritsar-Katra Vande Bharat Express, launched today, will depart Katra at 6.40am and reach Amritsar by 12.20pm, stopping at Jammu Tawi, Pathankot Cantt, Jalandhar City, and Beas. The return journey leaves Amritsar at 4.25pm and arrives in Katra by 10pm, allowing same-day round trips for pilgrims and tourists. Equipped with modern features like automatic doors, onboard Wi-Fi, infotainment screens, reclining seats, bio-vacuum toilets, GPS tracking, and the Kavach safety system, the train ensures both comfort and safety. With this launch, Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir now each have five Vande Bharat trains (10 services in total). Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, while expressing gratitude to PM Modi, said the new Vande Bharat train will ensure ease of travel for devotees of Mata Vaishno Devi and spur the growth momentum of the local economy. The freight train has arrived at the right time. It will help in the timely delivery of horticulture produce from Kashmir, KCCI president Javed Ahmed Tenga said.

PM Modi to flag off Katra-Amritsar Vande Bharat train today

New Delhi, Aug 9: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually flag off Vande Bharat Train tomorrow between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Station of Jammu Division of Northern Railway and Amritsar Railway Station of Ferozepur Division via Jammu-Pathankot-Jalandhar Vyas, officials here today said. The train service will be connecting two religious towns of Amritsar [] The post PM Modi to flag off Katra-Amritsar Vande Bharat train today appeared first on Northlines .

AAP bid to make Jalandhar Central fit with modern playgrounds, walking tracks

APS Akhnoor clinches Bronze at CBSE Cluster XVIII U-14 Basketball Tourney

Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 6: Army Public School (APS) Akhnoor has brought pride to the institution by clinching the Bronze Medal in the CBSE Cluster XVIII Under-14 Boys Basketball Tournament (2025-26), held at BCM School, Ludhiana (Punjab). The prestigious tournament featured 18 top schools from across the region. APS Akhnoor kicked off the tournament with a dominant 28-20 victory over Montgomery GNP School, Jalandhar, followed by an impressive 24-08 win against Pratap World School, Pathankot in the quarterfinals, securing [] The post APS Akhnoor clinches Bronze at CBSE Cluster XVIII U-14 Basketball Tourney appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Backlash grows over Punjab's land pooling policy as AAP faces internal revolt in CM Manns constituency

CHANDIGARH: Amid growing backlash from farmers and opposition parties over its controversial land pooling policy, Punjab's ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is now grappling with growing internal dissent. The political storm has reached Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's Dhuri assembly constituency, where several party leaders have resigned, denouncing the scheme as anti-farmer. According to sources, a few local leaders have conveyed the people's concerns to the party leadership. In the latest development, AAP block president from Dhuri, Gurjeet Singh Kanjhla, resigned stating that This fight against land pooling policy is not just of the farmers, but also of the entire state. Former OSD to CM Mann, Onkar Singh Sidhu, who was removed last year, criticised the policy on social media, People of Punjab have never bowed before Delhi, and they never will. AAP's Kisan wing leader from Jalandhar, Jaswant Singh Lovely also resigned, posting on social media that I hope the party will reconsider its decisions. I request my companions to stand with our farmer brothers. It is in your hands whether you want to become a son of Punjab or a son of Delhi. He also wrote that he resigned Gian Singh Mann, the CM's cousin from Satauj village, posted on social media, Just as the anti-sacrilege law has been sent to the standing committee for review and to seek public opinion, the same way the views of the landholders and farmers should be sought. Punjabs land pooling policy challenged in High Court as activists flag environmental concern Last week, Harmanjit Singh Brar, the Chairman of the District Planning Board of Moga and former district president of AAP in Moga, resigned citing strong opposition to the policy. He gave up his post but remained in the party. Brar announced his resignation through a Facebook post, stating that the decision was made in solidarity with the farmers, whose interests he believes are being compromised by the new policy. The government's land pooling scheme is against the welfare of the farming community. I cannot remain silent while farmers are pushed to the brink, he wrote, urging the state leadership to withdraw or review the controversial policy. A few days back, AAP's Jodhan block president in Ludhiana district Tapinder Singh Grewal also resigned from his post, denouncing the new scheme as anti-farmer. He also announced his decision via a post on Facebook, I, Tapinder Singh Jodhan block president of AAP appreciate all the good work done by the Punjab government. However, I strongly oppose the newly introduced land pooling policy and hereby resign from the post and my responsibilities within the party. Earlier, AAP Anandpur MP Sahib Malvinder Singh Kang criticised the scheme in a post on X and asked his party leaders to earn the trust of farmers before introducing any such policy. He had suggested the need for addressing the objections of farm unions through empathy and meaningful dialogue. But Kang later deleted the post drawing criticism from the opposition leaders who had commended him for breaking ranks with AAP to support the farmers. Kang had tweeted, The objections raised by farmer unions on the Land Pooling Policy must, in my view, be heard with empathy and addressed through meaningful dialogue. In the last three years, our government has ensured uninterrupted agri-power, pushed canal water to every field, fast-tracked mandi reforms and promoted crop diversification. On this, too, trust must be earnednot assumedbefore any policy takes root. Farmers take out tractor marches demanding immediate withdrawal of land pooling scheme in Punjab With nineteen months left for the 2027 assembly elections, the AAP government faces mounting pressure as farmer protests intensify. Protesters have burned effigies of CM Mann and Arvind Kejriwal, while opposition parties have termed the policy anti-peasantry and impractical. The policy has also been challenged in Punjab and Haryana High Court. On the other hand, the government claims that many farmers have agreed to follow this policy and give up their lands. However, compared to the protesting farmers, the number of farmers complying is very less: only 115 land owners in total (15 from Ludhiana and 100 from Mohali) have come forward to adopt the scheme since it was launched on June 2. As per the policy the state government plans to acquire 65,533 acres of land across 21 cities and towns in the state to develop both industrial and residential zones. The move is said to be the largest acquisition of land by the Punjab government since 1966. Partially relenting to the protest, the government has decided to implement the policy only in Ludhiana, Patiala and Mohali while putting smaller towns on hold. Last week, CM Mann said his government would continue engaging with farmers, calling their consent and their consent would remain pivotal to the land pooling policy. A senior AAP functionary said the party was holding talks to explain the policy's benefits.

Punjab farmers intensify protest against land pooling policy, AAP leaders quit in solidarity

Punjabs land pooling policy challenged in High Court as activists flag environmental concern CHANDIGARH: Apart from facing backlash from farmers and opposition parties over its controversial land pooling policy, Punjab's ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is now grappling with growing internal dissent. The political storm has reached Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's Dhuri assembly constituency, where several party leaders have resigned, denouncing the scheme as anti-farmer. According to sources, a few local leaders have conveyed the people's concerns to the party leadership. In the latest development, AAP block president from Dhuri, Gurjeet Singh Kanjhla, resigned stating that This fight against land pooling policy is not just of the farmers, but also of the entire state. Former OSD to CM Mann, Onkar Singh Sidhu, who was removed last year, criticised the policy on social media, People of Punjab have never bowed before Delhi, and they never will. AAP's Kisan wing leader from Jalandhar, Jaswant Singh Lovely also resigned, posting on social media that I hope the party will reconsider its decisions. I request my companions to stand with our farmer brothers. It is in your hands whether you want to become a son of Punjab or a son of Delhi. He also wrote that he resigned Gian Singh Mann, the CM's cousin from Satauj village, posted on social media, Just as the anti-sacrilege law has been sent to the standing committee for review and to seek public opinion, the same way the views of the landholders and farmers should be sought. Farmers take out tractor marches demanding immediate withdrawal of land pooling scheme in Punjab Last week, Harmanjit Singh Brar, the Chairman of the District Planning Board of Moga and former district president of AAP in Moga, resigned citing strong opposition to the policy. He gave up his post but remained in the party. Brar announced his resignation through a Facebook post, stating that the decision was made in solidarity with the farmers, whose interests he believes are being compromised by the new policy. The government's land pooling scheme is against the welfare of the farming community. I cannot remain silent while farmers are pushed to the brink, he wrote, urging the state leadership to withdraw or review the controversial policy. A few days back, AAP's Jodhan block president in Ludhiana district Tapinder Singh Grewal also resigned from his post, denouncing the new scheme as anti-farmer. He also announced his decision via a post on Facebook, I, Tapinder Singh Jodhan block president of AAP appreciate all the good work done by the Punjab government. However, I strongly oppose the newly introduced land pooling policy and hereby resign from the post and my responsibilities within the party. Earlier, AAP Anandpur MP Sahib Malvinder Singh Kang criticised the scheme in a post on X and asked his party leaders to earn the trust of farmers before introducing any such policy. He had suggested the need for addressing the objections of farm unions through empathy and meaningful dialogue. But Kang later deleted the post drawing criticism from the opposition leaders who had commended him for breaking ranks with AAP to support the farmers. Kang had tweeted, The objections raised by farmer unions on the Land Pooling Policy must, in my view, be heard with empathy and addressed through meaningful dialogue. In the last three years, our government has ensured uninterrupted agri-power, pushed canal water to every field, fast-tracked mandi reforms and promoted crop diversification. On this, too, trust must be earnednot assumedbefore any policy takes root. With nineteen months left for the 2027 assembly elections, the AAP government faces mounting pressure as farmer protests intensify. Protesters have burned effigies of CM Mann and Arvind Kejriwal, while opposition parties have termed the policy anti-peasantry and impractical. The policy has also been challenged in Punjab and Haryana High Court. On the other hand, the government claims that many farmers have agreed to follow this policy and give up their lands. However, compared to the protesting farmers, the number of farmers complying is very less: only 115 land owners in total (15 from Ludhiana and 100 from Mohali) have come forward to adopt the scheme since it was launched on June 2. As per the policy the state government plans to acquire 65,533 acres of land across 21 cities and towns in the state to develop both industrial and residential zones. The move is said to be the largest acquisition of land by the Punjab government since 1966. Partially relenting to the protest, the government has decided to implement the policy only in Ludhiana, Patiala and Mohali while putting smaller towns on hold. Last week, CM Mann said his government would continue engaging with farmers, calling their consent and their consent would remain pivotal to the land pooling policy. A senior AAP functionary said the party was holding talks to explain the policy's benefits.

Chandigarh Diary | AAP MP criticises land pooling, deletes post

AAP MP from Anandpur Sahib Malvinder Singh Kang was the first party leader to speak up against the controversial land pooling policy as he took to social media and urged party leaders to earn the trust of farmers on this policy. He later deleted the post. He had tweeted, The objections raised by farmers unions on the Land Pooling Policy must, in my view, be heard with empathy and addressed through meaningful dialogue. In the last three years, our government has ensured uninterrupted agri-power, pushed canal water to every field, fast-tracked mandi reforms... crop diversification. On this too, trust must be earnednot assumed. Former CM Channis double delight Former Punjab Chief Minister and Jalandhar MP Charanjit Singh Channi was honoured with the prestigious Sansad Ratna award for his outstanding performance in Parliament. Channi is the Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Agriculture. The award recognises outstanding contributions to parliamentary work, including participation in debates, raising questions and involvement in legislative activities. These awards are instituted by the Prime Point Foundation and based on data-driven assessments of parliamentary performance. Channi, among the 17 MPs awarded, was recognised for his contribution to the legislature. Alsi pinni served at Faujas bhog ceremony At the bhog ceremony (last prayer) of legendary runner, the 114-year-old Fauja Singh, better known as the Turbaned Tornado, the family served special alsi pinnis (flaxseed) prepared with jaggery a secret behind the Faujas fitness and long life as a tribute to his memory. Singh had it for breakfast every day with glass of milk. Harvinder Singh, son of the late marathoner, said his father never missed his daily alsi pinni: Days before the pinnis were about to finish, he would remind my wife to start making a fresh batch. People were often surprised when we bought ingredients for pinnis during summers. But my father had them daily, regardless of the season. Harpreet Bajwa Our correspondent in Chandigarh hsbajwa73@gmail.com

Fauja Singh statue to be installed at Moga

MOGA (PUNJAB) July 30: A statue of late runner Fauja Singh will be installed shortly at Moga s famous Mahan Desh Bhagat Park. Fauja Singh passed away at the age of 114 years on July 14, 2025 at his native Jalandhar village in Beas Pind when a motor vehicle ran into him. Singh, a global running legend had several age group level records to his name. He started his running career at the ripe age of 89. At 100, he [] The post Fauja Singh statue to be installed at Moga appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

3 Doctors Suspended After Oxygen Supply Fault Causes Deaths In Jalandhar Hospital

Punjab Health Minister Balbir Singh on Wednesday announced the suspension of three doctors after three patients died due to a technical fault in the oxygen supply at a civil hospital in Jalandhar.

Punjab government sacks doctor, suspends three others after oxygen failure kills three patients

CHANDIGARH: The Punjab government on Wednesday dismissed one doctor and suspended three others for negligence after three patients on ventilator support died late Sunday night at Jalandhars Civil Hospital following a sudden disruption in oxygen supply due to a technical fault in the trauma centre ICU. Punjab Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh said that although the hospital had four sources of oxygen, poor management led to the deaths. The technical committee constituted to look into the incident has submitted its report. The Medical Superintendent of the hospital, Dr Raj Kumar, Senior Medical Officer (SMO) Dr Surjit Singh, and Consultant Anaesthetist Dr Sunakshi are being placed under suspension, and House Surgeon Dr Shivinder Singh is being dismissed from service, he added. Singh said the deaths were caused due to negligence by the Hospital Superintendent, SMO, and the doctor on duty. A detailed inquiry will be conducted. The other three doctors are also likely to be dismissed from service and will lose all retirement benefits, he said. Expressing regret, Singh said he was sorry that the hospital could not save the lives of critically ill patients. This unpardonable negligence cannot be tolerated, and exemplary punishment has to be given. There was negligence on their part, which reflected their callous attitude, he said. Three patients had died at the hospital due to a 25 to 30-minute glitch in oxygen supply. The initial inquiry report by a team from the Punjab Health Systems Corporation (PHSC) pointed to poor management by hospital authorities in overseeing the operations of the oxygen plant on the premises. It was found that instead of a trained technician, a contractual ward attendant, a non-technical employee, was on duty at the time of the malfunction, and he was ill-equipped to handle the emergency. This lapse led to the deaths of three critically ill patients in the trauma centre. The families of the deceased alleged that their loved ones died because of the hospitals failure to act swiftly after the central oxygen system failed. They claimed that the disruption in supply went unaddressed for too long. Sources said the deceased included a snakebite victim, a young man admitted for a drug overdose, and a TB patient, all of whom were on ventilator support at the time of the incident.

Farmers take out tractor marches demanding immediate withdrawal of land pooling scheme in Punjab

CHANDIGARH: With anger mounting against the controversial land pooling scheme of the Punjab government, farmers across the state held tractor marches demanding its immediate withdrawal. The state government plans to acquire 65,533 acres of land across 21 cities and towns in the state to develop both industrial and residential zones. It is the largest acquisition of land by the government in the state since it was reorganized in 1966. The Sanyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) comprising 35 farm unions had given a call for tractor marches which got support from other farm unions including the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) and BKU Ekta-Ugrahan, the largest farm union of the state. On the call given by the SKM, tractor marches were taken out in various parts of the state including Ludhiana, Amritsar, Sangrur, Mohali, Bathinda, Taran Taran, Patiala, Ferozepur, Fategarh Sahib, Ropar, Jalandhar, SBS Nagar, Hoshiarpur, Moga and Mansa districts despite inclement weather. The biggest show of strength by farmers was witnessed in Ludhiana district where the state government proposes to acquire 45,861 acres of land. This includes 24,311 acres of land for residential purposes and 21,550 acres for setting up industrial zones. The epicentre of the protest was Dana Mandi in Jodhan near Ludhiana. A cavalcade of nearly 300 vehicles including tractors and tempos carrying many farmers and activists made its way through various villages. Senior SKM leader and president of BKU (Lakhowal Group) Harinder Singh Lakhowal who himself led the tractor march from Kum Kalan to Ratangarh village, covering 30 villages of the area, told TNIE that farmers in thousands participated in the tractor march, which started at around 9.30 am and ended at 2 pm. On August 4, a meeting of the SKM will be held to decide where to hold the massive rally which we have planned for August 24. If by then the government does not take back the land pooling scheme, a big agitation will be announced by us, he added. Without naming the AAP, posters have been put up in many villages, which read, Any official or leader of any party who wants to apprise about the benefits of the scheme will not be allowed to enter the village. Terming the policy a 'major conspiracy' to erase villages from the map of the state, senior SKM leader and president of BKU (Rajewal Group) Balbir Singh Rajewal said the tractor rally was held in several places of Ludhiana district including Kumkalan, Balion, Dakha, Jodha and Jagraon. It was the biggest-ever march in recent times, as the public in rural areas showed their anger against the governments bid to take over their fertile lands and displace them from their homes. This policy will ruin at least 20,000 families of farmers and leave farm labourers jobless, he said. In Amritsar district, tractor marches were taken out in Ajnala and Mannawala as farmers from villages around Guru Ka Bagh marched towards Gurdwara Morcha Sahib on the Amritsar-Ajnala road where they were joined by another cavalcade from villages around Rajasansi. A march was also taken out in neighboring Tarn Taran district. In Sangrur district, the rally started from Sohian village, near Sangrur, and culminated at the deputy commissioner's office. Farmers led by SKM leaders also started a dharna against the government in front of the DC office in Fatehgarh Sahib. Sarwan Singh Pandher, General Secretary of Kisan Mazdoor Sangarsh Committee, said they appeal to the government to withdraw the policy before a massive agitation starts. We know that the proposed acquisition announcement by the government was just a start, he said. Several tractors were fitted with music systems and extra seating to accommodate more protesters. These mobile convoys passed through the villages where the government reportedly plans to acquire land under the pooling policy. Women also extended support to the protesting farmers as they offered refreshments including chabeels, langars and parshad. The farmer leaders say that farmers are getting ready to fall into direct confrontation if such a situation arises. We are determined to oppose the land pooling scheme and do not want to part with our fertile lands and will go to any length to stop our land to be taken forcibly, said a farmer Kamalpreet Singh. The AAP government has been facing flak from opposition parties, including the Congress, Shiromani Akali Dal and BJP, which dubbed its land pooling policy a looting scheme to rob farmers of their land. In return, the AAP has hit out at the opposition parties for spreading misleading propaganda.

Organic Colour Paper Paratha In Jalandhar Goes Viral, Here's How It Looks

A viral video reveals how the colourful paratha was made at a shop in Jalandhar. The treat has received a lot of interest from foodies.

Three patients die at Jalandhar civil hospital, families blame fault in oxygen supply

Three patients died at Jalandhar civil hospital, triggering family accusations of oxygen supply failure. Hospital authorities denied the claims, admitting a temporary dip in oxygen pressure but asserting swift activation of backup cylinders and rectification of the fault. A nine-member committee has been formed to investigate the incident and submit a report within two days.

3 Patients Die After 'Technical Snag' Reduced Oxygen Supply At Jalandhar Hospital

A sudden drop in oxygen pressure at the Trauma Ward of the Civil Hospital in Jalandhar on Sunday allegedly led to the deaths of three patients, triggering panic in the administration and prompting an inquiry.

NIT Jalandhar Guest Faculty Recruitment 2025 Walk in for 34 Posts

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

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

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

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

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

Last Rites of Marathon Legend Fauja Singh Held in Jalandhar

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

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

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

Fate, not time, outran this turbaned Tornado

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

Towards fit India

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

Chandigarh diary | Kangana concerned over lack of respect for MPs

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

Golden Temple receives five bomb threat emails in three days; SGPC, security agencies on high alert

CHANDIGARH: In a span of three days, the Golden Temple in Amritsar has received five bomb threat emails, with three sent today alone, allegedly from fake IDs, as police remain clueless about the origin of these messages. The emails have prompted heightened security at the sacred shrine, with Punjab Police and Border Security Force (BSF) personnel conducting thorough checks in and around the temple complex. Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) President Harjinder Singh Dhami said, Five emails have been continuously received since July 14 (Monday). The SGPC has already informed the government and police about these threats. The recent series of threatening emails warning of bomb attacks at this sacred site is a matter of grave concern. The Golden Temple is a spiritual and inclusive centre for all humanity, drawing lakhs of devotees from India and abroad every day. Expressing disappointment, Dhami said that the identity of the sender still remains unknown. He emphasised, It is the government's responsibility to urgently trace the origin of these emails, including the server, IP address, and country being used. He added that the emails received on July 15 and 16 were not only addressed to the SGPC but also to Amritsar MP Gurjeet Singh Aujla and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. The first email came on July 14, reportedly from the fake email ID of Kerala Chief Minister Comrade Pinarayi Vijayan. The second threat, received on July 15, was also reportedly from the fake email ID of former Chief Justice of India, Justice Chanderchur Singh. This email was also sent to SGPC and MP Gurjeet Singh Aujla. The three emails received today were purportedly from a person named Asif Gaffur and addressed to SGPC and Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, he added. Dhami also raised concern that these emails were being sent using the names of prominent individuals and criticised the governments failure to identify the culprits. We have activated our internal cyber teams, but this responsibility lies with the state. The culprits must be exposed without delay, he said. He further pointed out that despite several complaints to Punjab Police regarding fake and parody social media accounts operating in the SGPCs name, the Cyber Cell had failed to take substantial action, showing the states lack of seriousness toward Sikh institutions. Whether these threats are simply the mischief of a malicious mind or part of a larger conspiracy must be investigated, Dhami said, warning that the threats could be an attempt to create fear among the thousands of devotees who visit the shrine daily. He assured that the SGPC was diligently managing the Golden Temple complex and appealed to devotees not to be fearful, adding that large numbers of people continue to arrive daily as usual. In connection with the threats, former Member of Parliament Shwait Malik met Dhami at the SGPC office today. Dhami said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, understanding the sensitivity of the issue, had sent BJP leader and former MP Malik to engage with the SGPC. He expressed gratitude for the gesture but criticised Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann and his cabinet ministers for not contacting them so far on the issue. Amritsar Police Commissioner Gurpreet Singh Bhullar confirmed, Two emails came earlier and now three have come. The content in them is almost similar. Till now, in the investigation, the contents are pointing towards southern states. We hope that soon we will share the breakthrough. He added, We are coordinating with the SGPC. As a precautionary measure, the bomb disposal team of the BSF was called in to search and assist us as they were nearby. Our bomb disposal team is coming from Jalandhar, hence we requested the BSF to send theirs. The SGPC has also deputed its own task force. Bhullar assured that foolproof security was being provided and there was no need for devotees to panic. Following the threats, security forces, including Punjab Police personnel, commandos, and BSF officers, searched the galiara around the Golden Temple using sniffer dogs and bomb detection equipment. They also screened the belongings of devotees, while SGPCs task force monitored the situation inside the temple complex. Plainclothes state police personnel were deployed around the complex to monitor any suspicious activity. Surveillance has been intensified, and police have been stationed at all access points to the temple. Bomb disposal squads and sniffer dogs remain on standby. Sources claimed that one of the emails sent on Tuesday claimed that RDX explosives had been packed inside pipes within the temple premises, with the intent to cause blasts inside the shrine. Another email sent on Monday warned of a blast at the langar hall (community kitchen) of the Golden Temple. The exact contents of the messages have been withheld due to security concerns. Both central and state security agencies are jointly working to analyse the digital footprints and track the origin of the emails. The language used in this email is almost similar to the earlier ones, so it might be possible that the sender is the same, said an official on condition of anonymity.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Driver of SUV that ran over veteran marathoner Fauja Singh arrested

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

Driver of SUV that ran over veteran marathoner Fauja Singh arrested

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

Driver of SUV that ran over Fauja Singh arrested

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

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

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

Fortuner That Hit And Killed Marathoner Fauja Singh Identified: Cops

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

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

Chandigarh: Veteran marathon runner Fauja Singh died on Monday, July 14, after being hit by an unidentified vehicle while out for a walk in his native village in Punjabs Jalandhar district. He was 114. His demise was confirmed by author Khushwant Singh, a former state information commissioner of Punjab, who spoke to Fauja Singhs family Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The 114-year-old Fauja Singh, nicknamed the Turbaned Tornado, the oldest marathon runner, died in a road accident in his village near Jalandhar in Punjab.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ED raids 11 locations in Punjab, Haryana in dunki route money laundering probe

CHANDIGARH: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday conducted searches at eleven locations across Punjab and Haryana as part of an ongoing money-laundering investigation into a 'dunki route' case involving illegal immigrants who were deported by the United States earlier this year. Sources said that the Jalandhar zonal office of the apex agency carried out search operations under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in Amritsar, Sangrur, Patiala, and Moga in Punjab, and Ambala, Kurukshetra, and Karnal in Haryana. The EDs investigation is based on 19 FIRs registered by police in both Punjab and Haryana against several travel agents and middlemen. As part of the probe, the agency also raided the residence of Bhartiya Kisan Union (Totewala) leader Sukh Gill in Jalandhar. The searches were conducted at premises linked to individuals and entities whose names surfaced during the course of the investigation, said sources. According to officials, around 131 youths from Punjab were deported from the United States in February this year. They were flown back to India in handcuffs aboard US military aircraft, triggering widespread public outrage. Sources further revealed that the travel agents allegedly duped aspiring migrants out of rS 4555 lakh each. Many of these agents never met the victims in person and operated through local contacts. The youth were promised legitimate overseas placements but were instead pushed to take the illegal dunki route, passing through multiple countries. Investigators found that these donkers and their associates exerted pressure on the migrants and their families for additional payments while the youths were in transit. It is learnt that the ED has recorded statements from several deportees, which have helped map the networks operational structure and identify new suspects. The deportees were asked to submit all relevant documents, including bank account details of the travel agents who received payments. A thorough investigation was launched under PMLA as the case involves significant illegal financial transactions, said an official on condition of anonymity.

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

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

ED Raids In Punjab, Haryana In Donkey Route Case

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

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

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

Punjab Police arrest travel agent behind fake college offer letter scam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Punjab Police crack down on 'controversial' social media influencers after rise in threats from radical groups

CHANDIGARH: With incidents of Sikh hardliners increasingly targeting social media influencers in recent days, the Punjab Police has begun scrutinising accounts of several popular influencers alleged to be promoting vulgar content, double-meaning language, or posts that could create law and order issues. The cyber cell of the state police has already flagged approximately 100 controversial posts to respective online platforms for removal under the Information Technology (IT) Act. This exercise was launched following the murder of social media influencer Kanchan Kumari, alias Kamal Kaur Bhabhi, by self-styled Sikh radical and Nihang Amritpal Singh Mehron on June 9. Sources in the intelligence community said that social media activity is now being treated as a matter of internal security. A crackdown has been initiated against controversial influencers, with further action expected in the coming days. A senior official, on condition of anonymity, said several popular influencers alleged to be promoting provocative content are now under scrutiny. This is being done using human intelligence. Such accounts are being identified, and then the process of removing objectionable content begins, the official said. Sources further revealed that many flagged posts include videos and statements from self-styled influencers who have gained notoriety for provocative content. These posts have triggered increased threats against other influencers. Over the past two years, the cyber cell has facilitated the removal of approximately 8,000 objectionable posts from various social media platforms. The cyber wing monitors activities of influencers only after receiving formal complaints. It is authorized to take up the matter with the platforms where the content is posted, said another senior official. The cell reports such posts to platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram for removal. If platforms fail to act, legal action is pursued under Section 79(3)(b) of the IT Act. Citing persistent threats, social media influencer Deepika Luthra from Amritsar has deleted her Instagram account after receiving threats. She has been provided police security after specific threats from Babbar Khalsa International (BKI). Another influencer, Simarjeet Kaur, known online as Preet Jatti, has also reportedly received threats from extremist elements. Earlier, a grenade was hurled outside the residence of influencer Rozer Sandhu in Maqsudan, Jalandhar. Pakistani gangster Shahzad Bhatti claimed responsibility, alleging the attack was in response to derogatory remarks made against Islam by the YouTuber.

NCP leader Baba Siddique murder mastermind detained by Canadian authorities

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

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

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

Wheelchair-bound rape survivor moves SC seeking medical help

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

AISSF president shot dead in Punjab over parking dispute

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

Supreme Court directs urgent medical care for paralysed rape survivor

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

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

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

Punjab Vigilance Bureau arrests AAP MLA Arora on charges of corruption

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

Punjab Vigilance conducts raid at AAP MLA Raman Aroras house in corruption matter

CHANDIGARH, May 23: Punjab Vigilance Bureau on Friday conducted raid at ruling AAP MLA Raman Aroras house in Jalandhar in connection with a corruption matter, sources said. Arora represents Jalandhar central constituency. Sources said raids pertained to a matter in which it was alleged that false notices were sent to innocent people through some official in Jalandhar. Aroras role cam under scanner in the alleged corrupt practices, they said. (Agencies) The post Punjab Vigilance conducts raid at AAP MLA Raman Aroras house in corruption matter appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

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

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

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

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

Himachal farmers demand ban on Turkish apples

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

One surveillance drone brought down: DC Jalandhar urges people to stay calm

I have been informed that one surveillance drone was brought down by the Armed forces at around 9.20 pm near village Mand. The expert team is looking for the debris. It is requested that please do not go near the debris. If you found them and immediately inform the nearest police station. It has also been informed that no drone activity has been seen in Jalandhar since 10 pm, the DC Jalandhar said.

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

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

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

Here is a select list of stories to start the day

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

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

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

Shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modis warning to Pakistan that India will not tolerate terror in any form, reports of Pakistan military drones hovering over Jammu and Kashmirs Samba and Punjabs Jalandhar districts emerged on Monday, May 12. Visuals from the Samba district showed red trails in the sky and sounds of explosions, as Indias Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

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

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

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

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

Eight Telangana Natives Safely Return from J&K

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Unidentified object lands near Jalandhar; 1 hurt

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

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

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

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

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

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

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