Prestige battle unfolds in Ludhiana West
The Ludhiana West Assembly seat by-election is crucial. Aam Aadmi Party, BJP, and Congress are competing. AAP's Sanjeev Arora is contesting. Arvind Kejriwal promised him a ministerial position. BJP's Jiwan Gupta relies on Ravneet Bittu's support. Congress nominated Bharat Bhushan Ashu. All parties are campaigning intensely. The election outcome is awaited.
Punjab government issues public advisory amid spike in COVID-19 cases
Amid a spike in COVID-19 cases, the Punjab Government has issued a public advisory mandating elderly, pregnant woman, immunocompromised and people with health issues to wear mask in crowded or closed places. The advisory also insisted health care staff to wear masks and follow COVID protocols. The advisory issued on Friday says, Due to slight rise in COVID-19 cases in some parts of the country, a precautionary advisory is being issued. Thought the situation in the state of Punjab is under control and the health system is fully prepared, still, citizens are advised to follow basic safety measures to help prevent the spread of disease. Issuing the Dos, the advisory noted: Individuals should cover their mouth and nose while coughing or sneezingusing a handkerchief, tissue, or the inside of the elbow. In case of symptoms such as fever, cough, or difficulty in breathing, it is advised to wear a mask and consult a doctor immediately. Listing the donts the advisory advised to avoid crowded or poorly ventilated places, especially if you have health problems and do not touch your face without washing hands, do not spit in public and avoid self-medication for respiratory symptoms. The advisory follows a noticeable surge in infections across the state, particularly in Ludhiana, which has emerged as the current hotspot. Two persons, one a 69-year-old woman, who was undergoing treatment at PGIMER in Chandigarh and another, a 39-year-old man, who was admitted to Government Medical College Hospital, Sector 32 of Chandigarh succumbed to the infection. Both were natives of Ludhiana. According to the Punjab Health Department, the active COVID-19 cases in the state has risen from just 12 a week ago to over 35, touching 60 this year. The has been a steep rise seen in Ludhiana, which has reported 23 new cases, attributed in part to ongoing political gatherings due to the Ludhiana (West) assembly by-poll as political leaders of various parties and the party workers are busy with campaign works Sources said that both the pre-existing medical conditions and the recent travel history, have made the situation more vulnerable to complications. Under the statewide Har Shukkarvaar, Dengue Te Vaar campaign, Punjab Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh visited Balongi, a semi-urban village near Mohali, on Friday and said that while neighbouring states like Delhi and Haryana have witnessed a rise in cases, Punjab has so far reported only 31 mild and asymptomatic COVID-19 infections. Commenting on the two COVID-related deaths, Dr. Singh clarified that both patients had underlying co-morbidities, and the fatalities could not be definitively attributed to the virus. We urge people to avoid closed-door gatherings and opt for well-ventilated spaces, he said, assuring that the states healthcare infrastructure is fully equipped with oxygen supplies, essential medicines, and emergency beds.
Punjab issues COVID advisory amid rise in cases, Ludhiana emerges as hotspot
CHANDIGARH: Amid a slight rise in COVID-19 cases, the Punjab Government has issued a public advisory urging high-risk individuals such as the elderly, pregnant women, immunocompromised persons, and those with underlying health conditions to wear masks in crowded or enclosed spaces. Health care workers have also been advised to adhere strictly to COVID-appropriate behaviour. The advisory, issued on Friday, reads: Due to a slight rise in COVID-19 cases in some parts of the country, a precautionary advisory is being issued. Though the situation in Punjab is under control and the health system is fully prepared, citizens are advised to follow basic safety measures to help prevent the spread of infection. Among the recommended practices, the advisory states that vulnerable individuals and health care staff should wear masks in crowded or closed spaces. It further advises: Cover your mouth and nose while coughing/sneezing using a handkerchief, tissue or elbow crease. If you feel sick (fever, cough, breathing difficulty), wear a mask and consult a doctor. Donts include: Avoid crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, especially if you have health issues. Do not touch your face without washing hands. Avoid spitting in public. Refrain from self-medicating for respiratory symptoms. The advisory follows a noticeable surge in infections across the state, particularly in Ludhiana, which has emerged as the current hotspot. Two COVID-related deaths have been reported: a 69-year-old woman receiving treatment at PGIMER in Chandigarh and a 39-year-old man admitted to Government Medical College and Hospital, Sector 32. Both were residents of Ludhiana and had pre-existing health conditions and recent travel histories, making them more vulnerable. According to the Punjab Health Department, active COVID cases in the state have increased from 12 last week to over 35, with total cases in 2025 reaching 60. Ludhiana alone has reported 23 new cases, a spike partially linked to ongoing political activity and gatherings for the Ludhiana (West) Assembly bypoll. As part of the states ongoing Har Shukkarvaar, Dengue Te Vaar public health campaign, Punjab Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh visited Balongi village near Mohali and addressed concerns about rising infections. He said, While neighbouring states like Delhi and Haryana have seen a rise in cases, Punjab has recorded only 31 mild, asymptomatic infections so far. The two reported deaths involved individuals with co-morbidities and may not be directly linked to COVID-19. Dr Singh urged residents to avoid closed-door gatherings and prioritise well-ventilated spaces. He assured the public that the states healthcare infrastructure is fully prepared, with adequate oxygen supplies, essential medicines, and emergency beds available.
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Voters board? Mind games on: Character takes centre stage in Ludhiana West race
Vijay Rupani re-scheduled his London visit from June 5 to 12 due to Ludhiana (West) by-elections
CHANDIGARH: Former Chief Minister of Gujarat and Punjab Affairs-in-charge of BJP Vijay Rupani, who was among the 241 passengers killed in the tragic Air India crash in Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon, has been involved in Punjab politics for the last three years. In fact, he re-scheduled his visit to London from June 5 to June 12 due to the Ludhiana (West) by-elections. The constituency goes to polling on June 19, and the result will be announced on June 23. Rupani was specifically brought by the saffron party to take charge of the state in September 2022 after the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) ended its alliance with the BJP. During this time, BJP's electoral performance improved. The party's vote share rose to 18.56 per cent from 6.6 percent in last years parliamentary elections. Under his leadership, the party had been taking on the AAP-led Punjab Government over many issues, including the law and order and the drug menace. State BJP leadership described him as an ``acceptable, humble and down-to-earth human being who deeply connected with the people across all levels of the state administration. He had planned to travel to London on June 5 to meet his daughter but his travel plans were delayed due to the Ludhiana (west) by-election. His wife, Anjali Rupani, had already left for London on June 5. The state party leaders recalled that Rupani was campaigning for the upcoming Ludhiana West assembly bypoll for weeks and had been diligently carrying out his responsibilities, including attending the filing of nomination papers by the party candidate Jiwan Gupta on June 2 from Ludhiana (West). On June 9, he had exuded confidence that Gupta would win the bypoll with a huge margin. Known as a protg of Amit Shah, Rupani was a first-time MLA from Rajkot (West) when he became the Chief Minister of Gujarat. Expressing profound sorrow over the passing of Rupani, Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar said, He was a humble and compassionate human being and a grassroots leader. I had the fortune of being associated with him while he was in-charge of the Punjab BJP. He was a real gentleman politician. Not only Gujarat has lost a great leader in him, but it is a personal loss for me, as I found his gentle and soft demeanour so endearing. His sagacity and simplicity in public life will be missed. Punjab BJP spokesman Pritpal Singh Baliawal who was the last party leader to see him off at Ludhiana said that he was a leader of the masses and he used to connect with people one to one to get feedback from the ground. A sombre mood has enveloped the party unit as politicians from across the spectrum expressed their condolences. Among those who offered their sympathies included AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal, former Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal and Leader of the Opposition and senior congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa.
Punjab: Ludhiana-based social media influncer found dead in parked car
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Air India crash in Ahmedabad could be the worst involving a single aircraft in India
The crash of Air India Flight 171 in Ahmedabad on Thursday could be the worst ever accident involving a single aircraft in India. There were 242 people on board the flight, while more casualties are likely on the ground as the plane crashed into a hostel for medical students. The only plane accident in India with more casualties was the mid-air collision of two aircraft over Charkhi Dadri in Haryana, around 100 km from Delhi, in 1996 in which 349 people died. That crash involved the collision of a Saudia flight from Delhi to Dhahran in Saudi Arabia and a Kazakhstan Airlines flight from Chimkent in Kazakhstan to Delhi. LIVE | Air India flight to London crashes near Ahmedabad airport during takeoff; all 242 passengers presumed dead The previous worst crash involving a single aircraft in India took place on New Year's Day in 1978 when an Air India flight crashed into the Arabian Sea just off the coast of Bombay less than two minutes after take-off. All 213 people on board that flight, which was headed to Dubai, died. The aircraft was a Boeing-747 named Emperor Ashoka. The worst ever crash involving an Air India plane was in 1985 when a flight from Canada to India was blown up over the Atlantic Ocean after a bomb was planted on board by Khalistani terrorists. All 329 people on board were killed. Here is a timeline of the major air accidents in India since 1990: August 7, 2020 Air India Express Flight IX-1344 Kozhikode In Keralas biggest plane accident, an Air India Express aircraft carrying 190 people on board, including crew, from Dubai to Calicut airport skidded off the table-top runway while landing in bad weather, fell 35 feet onto a road below and split into two. Operating under the Vande Bharat Mission to repatriate Indians stranded abroad due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Boeing 737-800 aircraft was flying from Dubai to Kozhikode (Calicut). Such runways, which are located on hilltops, create the optical illusion of being at the same level as the plains below when a pilot comes in for a landing. The crash claimed 21 lives, including both pilots, and left more than 100 injured, some critically. May 22, 2010 Air India Express Flight IX-81 - Mangalore Air India Express Flight IX-812 crashed on May 22, 2010, at Mangalore International Airport, marking one of the deadliest aviation disasters in India. The flight, a Boeing 737-800, was operating from Dubai to Mangalore with 166 people onboard, including many Indian expatriates returning home. The 2-year-old aircraft had crashed outside Mangalore airport in Karnataka on May 22, killing 158 people when it burst into flames after overshooting a table-top runway and plunged into a nearby forest.The crash resulted in 158 fatalities, with only 8 survivors, most of whom were seated in the front section of the aircraft. The investigation found that the pilot overshot the table-top runway at Mangalore and tried to pull up the plane but it was too late. November 10, 2009 An ATR-72 passenger plane, operated by Kingfisher Airlines, was damaged when it skidded off the runway on landing at Mumbai-Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (BOM), India. Flight IT4124 operated on a scheduled domestic flight from Bhavnagar Airport (BHU) to Mumbai. Maintenance on main runway 27 at Mumbai effected operations at the airport between certain times. October 29, 2008 King Air C-90 aircraft owned and operated by Govt of Punjab was operating Positioning flight from Chandigarh to Ludhiana on 29.10.08 with two cockpit crew on board. The flight en-route up to overhead Ludhiana was uneventful. The crew located the runway late due prevailing Low visibility. They were not comfortable with the approach and made a go around; a non-standard go-around due to low visibility. In the anxiety to not to loose the sight of the field they descended in three orbits in the vicinity of the airfield on the west side of R/w 12, perhaps to land after making the short circuit from the right. However they lost the control and impacted with the ground in the steep left bank. Aircraft got destroyed in the crash due to the impact and post impact fire. Both the occupant on board died due to fire and collapsing aircraft structure. Air India crash near Ahmedabad airport: What we know so far March 19, 2008 The Premier 1 corporate jet aircraft took off normally from Jodhpur (JDH), India. The flight en-route up to approach to land at Udaipur (UDR) was uneventful. After clearance to land at Udaipur the pilot selected the flaps-10; the flap didnt respond and Flaps-Fail message flashed. The pilot decided to go for a flap-less landing and carried out the check list for Flaps Up approach & landing. The approach speed of the aircraft was probably high and it could not be brought to the assigned limit for flap less landing. The pilot continued approach at high speed. From about 25 feet height, the aircraft had a sort of free fall and impacted the runway. It rolled for about 150 feet with heavy breaking on both the wheels; which caused heavy rubber deposits on the runway and subsequent tyre burst. The aircraft veered to right and hit the boundary wall before it stopped. September 8, 2007 Vulcanair P68C aircraft VT-JOY operated by M/s Joy Alukkas Traders (I)pvt Ltd, Cochin operating flight from Bangalore Airport to Cochin on 08.9.2007 after refueling at Bangalore. Its took-off from Bangalore airport runway 27 at approx 1514 Hrs normally. At about1520 Hrs IST the aircraft wanted to return back due technical. However it could not make it as it was losing the engine power very fast. Subsequently Radar contact with the aircraft was lost and the aircraft crashed onto the lakebed of Gawdanapalya Lake, about 5NM Southwest of Bangalore airport. All the persons onboard received fatal injuries. There was no evidence of fire. Aircraft was completely destroyed. July 1, 2007 ATR 72-212A aircraft VT -JCE operated by M/s Jet Airways was operating schedule flight sectors DelhiBhopalIndoreDelhi on 1.7.2007. The flight up-till approach to land at Indore was normal. On coming to the runway the aircraft touched down moderately hard and bounced high. The Pilots were perhaps determined to salvage the abnormal situation and added Power to the Engines with intention to cushion the sink-rate and settle the runway. On the contrary, aircraft came hard on the RWY and bounced once again. This got followed with a series of bounces in succession. While bouncing the aircraft migrated from the runway and finally came to full halt on right side close to airport boundary wall. There was no fire in the accident. March 11, 2006 Low-cost carrier Air Deccan's flight from Coimbatore was involved in a mishap when it skidded off the runway after landing at the Bangalore airport.The brand new ATR-72 plane with a compliment of 40 passengers and four crew members damaged its landing gear -- nose wheel and undercarriage-- and slipped out of the runway. April 17, 2004 The aircraft owned and operated by M/s Agni Aerosports Adventure Academy,Bangalore was scheduled for a flight from Jakkur airport to Nadirgul on 7.4.2004. The aircraft took off at about 1115 Hrs with four persons on board including pilot in command. Film actress Ms. Soundarya was also on board the aircraft. After attaining a height of about 150 ft after takes off, the aircraft took a steep left turn, stalled and hit the ground. A few minutes later, the aircraft caught fire and all the occupants received fatal injuries. The aircraft got destroyed due impact and post impact fire. Ahmedabad Air India plane crash: Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani feared to be among passengers September 30, 2001 (Charter Flight) King Air C 90 aircraft VT-EFF owned by Birla Global Finance Ltd. and operated by M/s Jindal Strips Ltd., New Dehli took off from Delhi on 30.09.2001 at 1241 hrs with six passengers and two crewmembers on board. The aircraft was bound to Kanpur. En route it reported Aligarh as estimated. Short of next reporting point KADAS the aircraft was about 10 miles right of track for which the permission was obtained and the pilot requested for direct routing to Kanpur. Captain was advised by ATC Lucknow, to co-ordinate with Gwalior and Agra for traffic information. Thereafter, the aircraft lost the contact with the ATC and crashed. All the persons on board received fatal injuries. The aircraft got destroyed due fire. July 17, 2000 Boeing 737 aircraft VT-EGD, owned by Indian Airlines Ltd. and operated by Airlines Allied Services Ltd. took off from NSCBI Airport Kolkata at 0615 hrs on 17.07.2000 for Patna Lucknow - Delhi. The aircraft was under the command of Capt. Sohan Pal and there were 58 persons, including six crewmembers, on board. At approx 0713 hrs, the aircraft informed Patna ATC, estimated arrival time at Patna at 0736 hrs. The aircraft informed Patna ATC at 0732 hrs that it would like to do a 360-degree due to being high on approach. The ATC informed the aircraft to report final for R/W 25 after carrying out a 360-degree turn and the pilot acknowledged the same. This was the last communication recorded between the aircraft and the ATC. During the approach, for R/W 25 at Patna, the aircraft turned steeply to the left, losing height, and collided with the tree in the approach funnel and crashed in the GardaniBagh area near Patna Airport. The aircraft was totally destroyed due impact with the ground and post impact fire. July 30, 1998 Indian Airlines DO-228 aircraft VT-EJW was involved in an accident at KochiAerodrome on 30-7-98. The aircraft was scheduled to operate from Kochi toThiruvananthapuram. Aircraft took off from runway 17 of Kochi Aerodrome. After attaining a height of about 400 ft. it was seen pitching up steeply to a near vertical attitude and thereafter appeared to perform a manoeuvre similar to a stall turn to the right and crashed on the roof top of the Component Repair Shop (CRS) building of the Naval Aircraft Yard, Kochi. After the impact the aircraft caught fire and was completely destroyed. All persons on board received fatal injuries. Three persons working in CRS also received fatal and six other persons received minor injuries. November 12, 1996 A Saudi Arabian Boeing 747 aircraft and Kazakhastna IL-76 aircraft collided in mid-air about 40 miles west of Delhi on 12th November, 1996. All the 312 occupants of Saudi Boeing 747 and 37 occupants of Kazakhstan IL-76 aircraft lost their lives. The Saudi Boeing 747 aircraft was on a scheduled passenger flight from Delhi to Dahran and the Kazakhastan aircraft was operating a non-scheduled flight from Chimkent, Kazakhastan to Delhi. After takeoff from Delhi, Delhi Approach had instructed the Saudi Boeing 747 aircraft to climb and maintain FL-140 (14,000 feet). The Kazakhastan aircraft had been instructed by Delhi Approach to descend and maintain FL-150 (15,000 feet). Suddenly at 1840 hours the blips of the two aircraft disappeared from the radar screen, as the two aircraft had collided. There was no casualty on the ground. The wreckage of Saudi Boeing 747 aircraft fell near village Dhani in Bhiwani District of Haryana and that of Kazakhastan IL-76 aircraft was lying near village Birohar in Rohtak District. Standing crops at the site of accident were damaged due to fire, impact and rescue operations. Ahmedabad airport resumes operations after brief shutdown following Air India flight crash July 11, 1996 Archana Airways L-410 aircraft VT-ETC was operating flight on Delhi-Shimla-Bhunter- Delhi sector on 11.07.96. The flight upto Shimla was unenventful. The aircraft took-off from Shimla with 9 persons including three flight crew members. At 0855 hrs. aircraft hit and crashed into a hill and caught fire near Kanda village. The Aircraft was totally destroyed and all the persons on board received fatal injuries and three persons on ground have also suffered injuries. May 18, 1996 Archana Airways L-410 aircraft VT-ETB was operating a scheduled flight from Delhi to Kanpur civil aerodrome on 18.05.96. The flight from Delhi to Kanpur was uneventful. The aircraft took-off from Delhi with 19 persons including three light crew. During landing, the aircraft touched down late and could not be stopped within the available runway length and went beyond the runway. The aircraft hit the boundary wall of the airport and came to halt. The aircraft sustained major damages. There was no fire and no injury to persons on board the aircraft. December 2, 1995 Indian Airlines B-737 aircraft VT-ECS was operating flight IC-492 of 2.12.95 under the command of Capt. Adil Mistry with co-pilot Sandeep Marwah and four cabin crew. The flight upto Jaipur was uneventful. Aircraft took-off from Jaipur with 98+4 passengers. Aircraft landed at Delhi at 1253 hrs. After landing the aircraft could not be stopped within the available runway length and went beyond the runway into kutcha. The aircraft was substantially damaged. There was minor fire. Six passengers received minor injuries. July 1, 1995 East West F-27 aircraft was engaged in a training flight at Baroda airport on 1.7.1995. The aircraft was under the command of an Examiner pilot with the trainee pilot on right hand seat. The first touch and go exercise was uneventful. During the second exercise, immediately on touchdown the left main landing gear failed at its shock strut outer cylinder and the inner cylinder with the main wheel assembly attached to it got liberated. The aircraft continued moving forward with the remaining portion of left shock strut contacting the runway followed by the left engine propellers and fuselage bottom and finally came to rest on the runway left side strip. There was no fire and no injury to persons on board the aircraft. The aircraft sustained substantial damage. December 17, 1994 Indian Airlines A-320 aircraft VT-EPM was operating a scheduled flight from Madras to Hyderabad on 17.12.1994. The aircraft was under the command of Capt. C.J. Bhoopal with Capt. Sree Nair as First Officer. In all there were 144 persons on board the aircraft. After reaching over Hyderabad airfield, the aircraft did normal descent and was cleared for VOR DME approach for Runway 09. Aftertouchdown when the aircraft was rolling, it was hit by an unauthorised outsider on moped, who was attempting to cross the runway. The aircraft continued rolling with normal braking. The moped rider died on the spot and his body was ragmented into pieces and scattered all over the runway. Aircraft sustained slight damage. November 15, 1993 Indian Airlines Airbus A-300 aircraft VT-EDV was operating scheduled flight IC-440 (Madras- Hyderabad sector) on 15.11.1993. There were a total of 262 persons were on board the aircraft including 247+3 passengers and 12 crew members. The aircraft could not land at Hyderabad due to low visibility and carried out a missed approach. After the missed approach, the aircraft reported Flap Problem and was holding overhead at Hyderabad during which the flight crew enquired visibility at nearby Air Force airfields which was also low. The aircraft then diverted to Madras. Due to flaps problem, the crew had to maintain low speed and low altitude as a result of which it experienced fuel shortage and sought permission from Madras control for landing at Tirupati. However, the aircraft could not reach even Tirupati airport and executed forced landing in an open paddy field about 14 nautical miles from Tirupati airport. The aircraft dragged on the soft paddy field before coming to final stop. There was no fire. Passenger evacuation was carried out by means of escape slides. All the persons on board escaped unhurt except four who received minor injuries. April 26, 1993 Indian Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft VT-ECQ was operating scheduled flight IC-491 from Delhi- Jaipur-Udaipur-Aurangabad-Bombay on 26.4.1993. The flight from Delhi to Aurangabad was uneventful. The aircraft took-off from Aurangabad with 118 persons on board. Aircraft lifted up almost at the end of runway and impacted heavily with a lorry carrying pressed cotton bales running from North to South on a highway at a distance of about 410 feet from the end of runway. The aircraft left main landing gear, left engine bottom cowling and thrust reverser impacted the left side of the truck at a height of nearly seven feet from the level of the road. Thereafter the aircraft hit the high tension electric wires nearly 3 kms North-East of the runway and hit the ground. In all 55 persons received fatal injuries. The aircraft was destroyed due to post impact fire. January 9, 1993 On 9th January, 1993 TU-154 aircraft No. 85533 wet leased by Indian Airlines from Uzbekistan Airways was operating flight IC-840 from Hyderabad to Delhi. The aircraft was being flown by Uzbeki operating crew and there were 165 persons on board including the crew. The aircraft touched down slightly outside the right edge of the runway, collided with some fixed installations on the ground, got airborne once again and finally touched down on kutcha ground on the right side of the runway. At this stage the right wing and the tail of the aircraft broke away and it came to rest in an inverted position. During the process, the aircraft caught fire and was destroyed. Most occupants of the aircraft escaped unhurt. Six persons suffered either limb fracture or other serious injuries while 45 persons suffered injuries of a minor nature. Boeing stock tumbles over 7% in pre-market following Air India crash September 4, 1992 Indian Airlines B-737 aircraft VT-EGJ was operating scheduled flight IC-493 (Udaipur-Bombay sector) on 4.9.92. During take-off roll, the aircraft hit an Aerodrome Attendant (Chowkidar) on the runway centerline, who received fatal injuries. The aircraft continued with the take-off roll, got airborne and subsequently landed uneventfully at its destination Bombay. January 10, 1992 Air Lanka B-737 aircraft was engaged in a Scheduled International Passenger flight from Colombo to Madras on 10.1.1992. During landing on Runway 07 at Madras airport, the right landing gear attachment failed and right engine bottom contacting runway surface immediately on touchdown. The aircraft started swerving towards the right of runway center line as it moved forward on its wheels with right engine cowling and bottom rubbing the runway surface. The aircraft finally came to stop with its nose wheel and failed right main landing gear entering the grassy side strip soon after crossing the Delta taxiway. The fire emanating from the right engine was extinguished by the Safety Services and the crew and passengers evacuated the aircraft through the left side exit doors by means of the slide chutes. August 16, 1991 Indian Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft VT-EFL while operating flight IC-257 (Calcutta-Imphal) on 16.8.91 crashed about 20 nautical miles from the Imphal airport. The aircraft had earlier taken off from Calcutta at 0615 hrs UTC and it lost contact with Imphal airport at 0716 hrs UTC at approximately 5000 feet on ILS. The aircraft was under the command of Capt. Shekhar Haldar with Capt. D.B. Roychoudhary as First Officer. There were a total of 68+1 persons on board the aircraft including crewmembers. All the 69 persons died in the accident. The aircraft was completely destroyed. May 7, 1990 Air India Boeing 747 aircraft VT-EBO was operating flight AI-132 (London-Delhi-Bombay). During landing at Delhi Airport, on 7.5.1990, its left outboard engine (No. 1 Engine) partially separated from its wing attachment and consequently left wing caught fire which was quickly extinguished by the Airport Safety Services. The passengers were safely evacuated through slide chutes. The left wing of the aircraft was substantially damaged. February 14, 1990 Indian Airlines Airbus A-320 aircraft VT-EPN was operating Bombay-Bangalore sector on 14.2.1990. The aircraft took off from Bombay at 11:58 hours. There were 146 persons on board which included the two cockpit crew, five cabin crew, and four infants. The flight from Bombay to Bangalore was uneventful. During the final approach to Runway 09 at Bangalore the aircraft first contacted ground within the boundary of the Karnataka Golf Association approximately 2300 ft. prior to the beginning of Runway 09. The aircraft went up into the air for a very short duration after which it again contacted the ground on all three gears and then hit an embankment at the boundary of the golf course. The aircraft finally came to rest outside the boundary wall of the airport. The aircraft was destroyed due to impact and fire. In all 92 persons on board including two pilots and two cabin crew died in the accident.
Punjab Influencer Found Dead In Car; CCTV Footage Shows Man Parking Vehicle | Video
Kamal is a resident of Ludhiana's Laxman Nagar. Investigations revealed that the vehicle where her body was discovered is registered in her own name.
Who Was Kamal Kaur 'Bhabhi', Instagram Influencer Found Dead In Car In Bathinda?
Kaur, a resident of Ludhiana, had more than 3.8 lakh followers on social media and had allegedly received threats from Khalistani terrorist Arsh Dalla
Who was Kamal Kaur? Ludhiana-based social media influencer found dead in her car in Bathinda
A post-mortem examination is scheduled for Thursday to ascertain the cause of death.
Punjab shocker: Popular social media influencer Kamal Kaur found dead in car; probe on
Kamal Kaur, a well-known Instagram influencer from Ludhiana with over 3.83 lakh followers, was discovered dead in a car near Adesh Medical University in Bathinda on Thursday. Kaur was popular for her reels on Instagram. Police have initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death.
Arvind Kejriwal, AAP chief, warned Ludhiana West voters that development would halt if they don't elect Sanjeev Arora in the upcoming byelection, promising him a cabinet position. He contrasted Arora with the Congress candidate, Bharat Bhushan Ashu, touting Arora's past achievements and accessibility.
Protest heat rises in poll-bound Ludhiana
Delhi is grappling with an intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring to 43.8C, prompting an orange alert from the IMD. Rajasthan faces even more extreme conditions, with Ganganagar exceeding 47C and a red alert issued. The heatwave extends across North India, impacting Ludhiana and even elevating temperatures in Himachal Pradesh, signaling a widespread regional crisis.
Newlywed Husband Kills Wife After 'Discovering Her Previous Marriage' In Ludhiana, On The Run
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Dead Lizard In Ice-Cream Angers Locals In Ludhiana, Health Officials To Examine Samples
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Chandigarh Diary | CM Sainis surprise visit delights Karnal villagers
The residents of Karnals Fafdana were in for a surprise as Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini who was on his way back from the state-level Maharana Pratap Jayanti celebrations held at Assandhs Salwan made a pit stop at their village. Getting off his vehicle, CM Saini headed straight toward a group of villagers huddled under a tree. Wide-eyed with astonishment, the locals patiently answered every question the CM asked about the development issues being faced in the area. Later in the journey, Sainis convoy also had a stopover in Jalmana village, where he again seized the opportunity to mingle with local residents and traders. AAP pulls out all stops ahead of June 19 bypoll With the high-stakes Ludhiana (West) byelection slated for June 19 fast approaching, AAP is pulling out all stops to woo urban voters. The state Cabinet gave its nod to the land pooling policy for 27 towns and cities during a meet chaired by the CM last Monday. The following day, it okayed a proposal to waive off the loans taken by 4,727 families belonging to the SC community that amount to a staggering `68 crore. Then on Wednesday it cleared an amendment to the Punjab Shops and Commercial Establishments Act of 1958 to reduce compliance burdens on 95% of small businesses. Cracks appear in Punjab Congress leadership Even during an election season, the grand old party fails to put up a united front. Every now and then, internal rifts make headlines, much to the embarrassment of the top Congress leadership. And the party just cant catch a break! The posters released for its Ludhiana (West) candidate, Bharat Bhushan Ashu, have renewed speculation of a power play. Why? Because they notably dont feature photos of state unit president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring and Lok Sabha MP from Gurdaspur Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa. While the party may insist that all is well, the divide couldnt be more apparent. Harpreet Bajwa Our correspondent in Chandigarh hsbajwa73@gmail.com
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Sukhbir Badal condemns Punjab AAP govt for selling govt bonds to finance land acquisition
Sukhbir Badal condemns Punjab AAP govt for selling govt bonds to finance land acquisition Ludhiana: Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) President Sukhbir Singh Badal on Monday condemned the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government for selling government bonds to finance the needless acquisition of 24,000 acres of fertile farm land adjoining Ludhiana to fill its own coffers. [] The post Sukhbir Badal condemns Punjab AAP govt for selling govt bonds to finance land acquisition appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
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AAP leaders counter Sirsas claims, say hes part of the problem
Congress questions VB action, alleges misuse of govt machinery by AAP
Beware of Delhis lootera gang, warns Manjinder Singh Sirsa
Number of Cong leaders, workers, social activists join AAP
CM has lost control of govt depts, should resign: Ashu
Arora has clear blueprint of Ludhs devp: Dr Balbir Singh
Former AAP members quit Congress to make comeback in party
CM failed to address any of Pbs pressing issues: Ghumman
Peddler held with 140 kg poppy husk
Fin mkt mgmt gains traction, many CBSE schools offer course
Industries along Gill Road cry for space to grow and expand
Frequent power breakdowns ailing industry
Late night Ludhiana quarrel: Man booked for stabbing neighbour in drunken rage; accused arrested
In a drunken rage, Sanjay Paswan, a labourer residing in Bilgah village, stabbed his neighbour, Amdoh Shah, after attempting to force his way into Shah's room on May 31. Shah was seriously injured and admitted to a hospital in Chandigarh. Sahnewal police arrested Paswan and booked him under relevant sections of the BNS based on Shah's complaint.
Punjab vigilance bureau in turmoil: 3 chiefs out, suspensions in over 3 months
Punjab Vigilance Bureau faces turmoil with multiple leadership changes and suspensions under the AAP government. Ludhiana SSP Jagatpreet Singh was recently suspended for alleged misconduct, following summons to Congress leader Bharat Bhushan Ashu, sparking political controversy. This comes after the removal of three chief directors and suspension of other officers, highlighting instability within the bureau.
PAU hosts conclave of VCs of 5 Pb varsities to foster academic ties
CII opens its zonal office in Ludhiana
Schools, colleges & other edu institutes also join celebrations
Plogging & plantation drives mark environ day in Ludh
Over 1,000 take part in ploggers drive
MC concludes probe in property tax scam
Ex minister Sohan Singh Thandal joins back to SAD fold
Ex-minister Sohan Singh Thandal rejoined Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), with party president Sukhbir Singh Badal welcoming him back. Badal asserted Thandal's brief stint with BJP was a deputation and predicted more people would join SAD.
Sree Chitra to explore link between indoor air pollution, heart health
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Over the next year, 200 heart patients in Kerala will sleep with a drum-sized cylindrical air purifier beside their beds. This is part of a major study being undertaken by the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST) to explore the link between indoor air pollution and heart health. The air purifiers -- supplied by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi -- will continuously monitor indoor air quality even as clinicians track each patients heart condition. The goal: to understand whether cleaner indoor air can reduce complications in people suffering from heart failure. The Kerala-based project is part of a larger multi-centre research initiative involving AIIMS, New Delhi, and the Dayanand Medical College, Ludhiana, in Punjab -- regions known for far worse air quality than Kerala. Funded by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the study is significant as cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in India. Air pollution is not just a city or traffic issue. Indoor air, where people spend a majority of their time, can be just as hazardous, especially for those with heart failure, Dr Harikrishnan S, principal investigator and professor of cardiology at SCTIMST, told TNIE. This study asks a crucial question: can reducing indoor air pollution improve outcomes for patients with heart failure? Each home will be equipped with one of two types of purifiers, distributed randomly. One has a basic bacterial filter while the other comes with both bacterial and dust filters. The devices will measure pollutants from environmental sources and household practices such as cooking. Patients will return for clinical review every three months, during which doctors will assess changes in their heart function, specifically the hearts pumping efficiency, Dr Harikrishnan said. A baseline reading from a central monitor installed at SCTIMST will help interpret the data collected by the homebased machines. So far, ten air purifiers have been installed in homes across Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam, from where the participants -- regular SCTIMST patients -- have been selected. The remaining 190 installations will follow shortly. Joining Dr Harikrishnan on the study team are co-principal investigators Dr Jeemon Panniyammakal, Dr Sanjay and Dr Jyothi Vijay. The research is being carried out under the Indo- US collaborative agreement on environmental and occupational health. Evidence linking fine particle pollution (PM2.5) to cardiovascular risks is growing. A recent AIIMS Delhi study revealed that even a slight rise in PM2.5 levels can elevate the risk of heart attacks the same day. In India, the burden is stark: an estimated 70 deaths per 100,000 people in 2019 were attributed to PM2.5 exposure, amounting to 9,79,682 deaths nationwide, with 22% caused by ischemic heart disease, according to UNEP. India also faces earlier onset of heart disease. Heart conditions begin 10 to 12 years earlier in India compared to the United States, Dr Harikrishnan pointed out.
Rajinder Gupta, a school dropout from Punjab, built Trident Group into a billion-dollar empire and became Ludhiana's richest man.
Punjab CM Bhagwant Manns Operation Sindoor remark sparks BJP outrage
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann criticized BJP's 'Operation Sindoor' campaign for the Ludhiana West byelection, questioning if it implied a 'one nation, one husband' concept. The BJP strongly condemned Mann's remarks, accusing him of mocking the operation's significance, which aimed to protect Hindu women from terrorists who used 'sindoor' as a marker for identification during a period of violence.
Land pooling policy will destroy agriculture in Punjab: Amrinder Singh Raja Warring
CHANDIGARH: Punjab Congress president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring expressed his reservations against the land pooling policy of the Aam Aadmi Party government, highlighting that it will lead to the destruction of the State's agrarian economy. Warring defended the re-induction of party leaders into the Congress, saying there were no differences over the issue and everybody was 'welcomed' into the party. In an informal conversation with the media after addressing a meeting of the constituency coordinators at the Punjab Congress headquarters, Warring observed that the land pooling policy was only aimed at collecting money. He said acquiring 24,000 acres of agricultural land will shake the agricultural economy of the state, and it will eventually hit every section of society. He pointed out that the Punjabs entire economy, trade and industry depend on agriculture, which keeps the economy moving. When you undermine the base, the entire economic edifice will collapse, he warned. Warring maintained that the government had not taken the stakeholders into confidence. Besides, he asked, whether there was any need for this policy when there is no demand for residential or industrial plots anywhere. He pointed out that there are a large number of residential colonies set up by private builders with so many plots left unsold. The same is the case with the residential apartments, he noted. Replying to a question on the reported differences within the party over the induction of people from other parties, Warring categorically stated that there was no difference. Every party likes to expand its base and strengthen itself. The more people join the party, the better it is, he said, reacting to the joining of the leaders from various parties recently. On the Ludhiana West by-election, he claimed that the Congress was far ahead of others. He expressed confidence that the party will win the by-election with a record margin. To another question on the BJP state president Sunil Jakhar and union minister Ravneet Singh Bittus remarks about him, he retorted, The two of them were enough to sink the BJPs boat just like they had sunk the Congress boat a few years ago. Replying to a question about a village putting itself on sale over failure of the government to stop drug peddling, Warring remarked, There cannot be a bigger slap on the face for the Punjab Government, it is a proof of the defeat in the so called Yudh. Bhai Bhaktaur is not an exception but an example of how drugs are freely available in Punjab, irrespective of the Punjab governments claims. Not only that the pedlars are selling drugs, but they are also having the audacity to beat up an ex-serviceman who opposes the sale of drugs. Government should hang its head in shame, he remarked.
2 tourists die in Kullu tree fall; 5 killed as pickup falls into gorge
In a tragic incident in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, a mother and daughter from Ludhiana lost their lives when a Deodar tree fell on them near Kasol. Adding to the sorrow, five individuals from Punjab died in Mandi district after their speeding pickup truck plunged into a deep gorge, highlighting the dangers faced by travelers in the region.
BJP also questions AAPs anti-drug drive
Bike-borne miscreants open fire at property dealers house
Committee set up in Ludhiana to handle election seizures
In preparation for the Ludhiana West by-election, a four-member committee has been formed by the district administration to oversee the seizure of cash and materials. This committee, led by Additional Deputy Commissioner Amarjit Bains, will ensure the Model Code of Conduct is strictly enforced.
Punjab: AAP failed on all fronts, people still dying of drugs, says BJP leader Tarun Chugh
Ludhiana, June 1: BJP national general secretary Tarun Chugh Sunday alleged that the Aam Aadmi Party government in Punjab has completely failed on all fronts. Chugh made the remark campaigning for party candidate Jiwan Gupta for the upcoming Ludhiana West assembly bypoll. The seat fell vacant following the death of AAP MLA Gurpreet Bassi Gogi in January. The bypoll for the seat will take place on June 19 and the counting will be held on June 23. Speaking to the [] The post Punjab: AAP failed on all fronts, people still dying of drugs, says BJP leader Tarun Chugh appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
2 tourists die after tree falls on them on bank of Parvati River in Himachal Pradesh
In a tragic incident, two women from Ludhiana, Avinash Kaur, 56, and Nishu Verma, 37, lost their lives after a Deodar tree fell on them near Kasol in Himachal Pradesh's Kullu district. The incident occurred on the banks of the Parvati River while the family was vacationing.
BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh on Sunday met BJPs candidate for the upcoming Ludhiana West Bypoll, Jeewan Gupta, and gave a call to the voters to expose the theatrical actions of the AAP government.. Speaking to the media, Chugh said the upcoming bypoll is a litmus test for Punjab, which is currently suffering under []
Finally, BJP declares Jiwan Gupta as Ludhiana West bypoll candidate
I have a lot to show but for opponents, I am the poll plank: Ashu
BJP fields Jiwan Gupta as last major contender for Ludhiana West bypoll
CHANDIGARH: With just two days left for filing nomination papers for the Ludhiana (West) bypolls, the BJP on Friday finally declared its senior party leader Jiwan Gupta as the partys candidate. Gupta, a core group member of the saffron party and former state general secretary, will file his nomination on June 2, the last day for submitting papers. Gupta, who started his political journey with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), hails from Bassi Pathana in Fatehgarh Sahib district, where he completed his schooling before his family shifted to Ludhiana. He will be contesting his maiden Assembly election. He has been associated with the BJP for over two decades and rose through the ranks to become state general secretary during the tenure of Ashwani Sharma as Punjab BJP president. He was replaced in 2023 when Sunil Jakhar took over as the chief of the state unit of the party. Gupta has remained active in the partys organisational and disciplinary affairs. The BJP is the last among the major parties to declare its nominee for the seat. Ludhiana West assembly bypoll on June 19: AAP aims to retain seat amid stiff competition Gupta will take on Congress heavyweight and former minister Bharat Bhushan Ashu, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidate and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjeev Arora, and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader and advocate Parupkar Singh Ghumman, who, like Gupta, is also contesting his first election. In last years parliamentary elections, Ravneet Singh Bittu of the BJP had polled the highest number of votes (45,424) from the Ludhiana (West) Assembly segment, which is part of the Ludhiana Lok Sabha constituency, signalling a shift in urban voter sentiment. In the 2022 Assembly elections, Bikram Singh Sidhu of the saffron party had secured over 28,000 votes and came third, ahead of the Shiromani Akali Dal. Ashu won the seat twice in 2012 and 2017, but was defeated by AAPs Gurpreet Singh Gogi by a margin of 7,512 votes in the 2022 Punjab Assembly polls. The bypoll, scheduled for June 19, was necessitated following the death of AAP MLA Gurpreet Singh Gogi in January under mysterious circumstances involving a gunshot injury. Counting of votes will take place on June 23.
Operation Shield: Ludhiana to conduct 15-minute blackout security drill tonight
Ludhiana is gearing up for a blackout mock drill tonight. This is part of Operation Shield. The initiative aims to enhance emergency preparedness. The district administration will conduct the drill from 8:00 PM to 8:15 PM. Power supply will be temporarily cut in designated areas. Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Jain urges residents to participate by switching off lights.
A Ludhiana court has sentenced Inderjit Singh Billa, Akashdeep Singh Ricky, and Mandeep Singh to ten years of rigorous imprisonment for attempting to murder Tejinder Singh. The trio forcibly intoxicated Tejinder before pushing him into a canal and further trying to drown him. The court dismissed the defense's claim of false implication, finding the prosecution's evidence and Tejinder's testimony credible.
The Congress, and AAP betrayed Sikhs for decades, says BJP
Ahead of the by-election to the Ludhiana West Assembly constituency slated for June 19, the BJP hopes to garner the support of Sikhs, and make its presence felt in Punjab
CHANDIGARH: The Aam Aadmi Party-led Punjab Governments ambitious plan to acquire over 24,000 acres of land in Ludhiana for urban development meets strong opposition from Congress and Shiromani Akali Dal, despite Chief Minister Bhagwant Manns assurances of voluntary participation and fair compensation. The most ambitious land acquisition initiative of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led Punjab Government to acquire 24,311 acres across more than 30 villages in Ludhiana for the development of urban estates may face significant hurdles. A political confrontation has erupted over the project, with both the Congress and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) declaring their opposition. They have pledged to prevent the acquisition of even an inch of land, threatening agitation if necessary. Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has emphasized that the government is not forcibly acquiring land but is instead seeking consent from landowners. Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal warned of a state-wide protest if the government does not withdraw the project. He stated that his party would resist any land acquisition, even if it required launching an agitation. He alleged that the project was designed to enable large-scale corruption by AAP leaders from Delhi, including party chief Arvind Kejriwal. Badal further demanded a ban on land sales to residents of other states and stated, If Punjabis cannot purchase land in Himachal Pradesh, why should Punjab allow outsiders to buy land here? Criticizing the AAP Government, Punjab Congress president and Ludhiana MP Amarinder Singh Raja Warring sent a letter to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, stating, Punjab is an agricultural state. We cannot afford to sacrifice green fields to cement and concrete, especially when there is no urgent requirement. You are stripping tens of thousands of farmers of their livelihoods, pushing them from prosperity to poverty. The large-scale acquisition would not only cripple the rural economy but also threaten Punjab's agricultural identity. If executed, this will turn farmers into landless labourers in urban slums. The anger among affected communities is real and growing. He questioned the necessity of acquiring new land when many existing colonies around Ludhiana remain underdeveloped. Warring urged Mann to reconsider the proposal, saying, Our ancestors belong to this land and so will our children. Let's not destroy what they built. Responding to opposition criticism, Chief Minister Mann reiterated during his 'AAP Sarkar, Aapke Dwar' programme in Patiala that the government is acting with transparency and consent. Some are creating baseless panic that the government plans to forcibly acquire your land. I am here today to clarify that we are not taking away anyone's land without their agreement. We are here to seek your advice, ensure your participation, and bring development to your doorstep. He also criticized past governments for corrupt land acquisition practices. Earlier, leaders like Sukhbir Badal approved plans, then shared them with their favourite few, the result was massive profiteering by a few, while farmers and common people were left to suffer. Those days are gone now. We are committed to transparency and fairness. Mann explained the land pooling policy, noting that it is entirely voluntary and allows landowners to retain their land for farming or other uses if they choose not to participate. Those who do not wish to give their land can continue using it for farming or other purposes. For those who opt in, Mann detailed the benefits: For every acre contributed, land owners receive a residential plot of 1,000 square yards in developed urban areas and a commercial space of 200 square yards for shops or showrooms. He added, All development costs, including roads, drainage, electricity and water supply infrastructure, will be borne by the government. For instance, if your land is worth Rs 1 crore per acre today, the developed property you receive in return will be worth Rs 3 to 4 crore. You can keep the property, rent it for consistent income, or sell it at your discretion. He also accused opposition leaders of hypocrisy and alleged links to the land mafia. Half of these leaders, who now claim to stand with the people, are builders themselves. They are friends with the land mafia and were responsible for selling off Punjab's lands to their associates at throwaway prices. They fear our policies because they bring accountability and remove corruption from the system. He assured that all agreements under the land pooling policy would be directly between the government and landowners, ensuring legal safeguards and preventing exploitation. Highlighting the issue of illegal colonies, the Punjab CM said, Illegal colonies mushroomed across Punjab, leaving residents without basic amenities like sewage, electricity or potable water. Builders and developers made profits and abandoned people. Our government is determined to regulate and redevelop these colonies, ensuring every resident gets access to modern facilities. The Greater Ludhiana Area Development Authority (GLADA), under the state housing department, has received the go-ahead to begin acquiring land for the proposed urban estate projects.
First Covid death reported in Chandigarh; Haryana records 12 active cases, Punjab three
CHANDIGARH: A 40-year-old man who had tested positive for Covid died early this morning at the Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Sector 32, Chandigarh. The man, originally from Firozabad in Uttar Pradesh, had been referred to GMCH from Ludhiana after testing positive for Covid. He was admitted to the Covid unit of the hospital, where he was kept in isolation. This marks the first confirmed Covid-related death in Chandigarh. Sources said the hospital authorities have not yet confirmed whether the infection was caused by the latest JN.1 variant. Confirming the death, Medical Superintendent of Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Sector 32, GP Thami said the patient had been admitted to the hospital two days ago with severe respiratory problems. He tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday and died today. We tested him on the second day as he came with respiratory issues and was put on a ventilator and was immediately placed in isolation within the Covid ward. He had no reported comorbidities, raising further concerns about the virulence of the current strain, said Thami. Covid cases rise, situation under control, says Karnataka Minister Health authorities are now expected to intensify monitoring and response measures to prevent further spread. Two ventilators had been set up in anticipation of any emergency care needs. As of May 27, Haryana has reported a total of 12 confirmed COVID-19 cases. Among these, Gurugram accounts for 6 active cases, with 2 new infections reported recently . Faridabad has also reported cases, contributing to the states overall tally . Haryana Health Minister Arti Singh Rao has assured the public that there is no need to panic, emphasizing that the government has made all necessary arrangements to handle the situation. The health department is closely monitoring the developments and urges residents to adhere to safety protocols . Meanwhile, Punjab currently has three active cases. One patient is from Amritsar, while two others, although counted in Punjab's active tally, originally belong to Haryana. One of them, a 51-year-old woman from Yamunanagar in Haryana, tested positive at a private hospital in Mohali last week. The other is a 25-year-old man who tested positive in Ferozepur. He had been working in a private firm in Gurugram and had arrived in Ferozepur a few days ago to stay with his parents due to illness. He later tested positive for Covid. All those who came in contact with him are being traced as a precautionary measure. The health department has since isolated him at home. Another patient, originally from Firozabad in Uttar Pradesh, had been referred to GMCH in Chandigarh from Ludhiana and died today. There were three active Covid cases in the state in January this year, all of whom have since recovered. Minister Damodar Rajanarasimha reviews Covid-19 status, monsoon disease preparedness in Telangana
First Covid death reported in Chandigarh; Haryana records 14 active cases, Punjab three
CHANDIGARH: A 40-year-old man who had tested positive for Covid died early this morning at the Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Sector 32, Chandigarh. The man, originally from Firozabad in Uttar Pradesh, had been referred to GMCH from Ludhiana after testing positive for Covid. He was admitted to the Covid unit of the hospital, where he was kept in isolation. This marks the first confirmed Covid-related death in Chandigarh. Sources said the hospital authorities have not yet confirmed whether the infection was caused by the latest JN.1 variant. Confirming the death, Medical Superintendent of Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Sector 32, GP Thami said the patient had been admitted to the hospital two days ago with severe respiratory problems. He tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday and died today. We tested him on the second day as he came with respiratory issues and was put on a ventilator and was immediately placed in isolation within the Covid ward. He had no reported comorbidities, raising further concerns about the virulence of the current strain, said Thami. Covid cases rise, situation under control, says Karnataka Minister Health authorities are now expected to intensify monitoring and response measures to prevent further spread. Two ventilators had been set up in anticipation of any emergency care needs. As of May 27, Haryana has reported a total of 12 confirmed COVID-19 cases. Among these, Gurugram accounts for 6 active cases, with 2 new infections reported recently . Faridabad has also reported cases, contributing to the states overall tally . Haryana Health Minister Arti Singh Rao has assured the public that there is no need to panic, emphasizing that the government has made all necessary arrangements to handle the situation. The health department is closely monitoring the developments and urges residents to adhere to safety protocols . Meanwhile, Punjab currently has three active cases. One patient is from Amritsar, while two others, although counted in Punjab's active tally, originally belong to Haryana. One of them, a 51-year-old woman from Yamunanagar in Haryana, tested positive at a private hospital in Mohali last week. The other is a 25-year-old man who tested positive in Ferozepur. He had been working in a private firm in Gurugram and had arrived in Ferozepur a few days ago to stay with his parents due to illness. He later tested positive for Covid. All those who came in contact with him are being traced as a precautionary measure. The health department has since isolated him at home. Another patient, originally from Firozabad in Uttar Pradesh, had been referred to GMCH in Chandigarh from Ludhiana and died today. There were three active Covid cases in the state in January this year, all of whom have since recovered. Minister Damodar Rajanarasimha reviews Covid-19 status, monsoon disease preparedness in Telangana
Six trainee recruit constables of Punjab police dismissed for failing dope test
CHANDIGARH: Six trainee recruit constables of Punjab Police who tested positive for drug consumption at the Punjab Police Recruit Training Centre at Jahankhelan in Hoshiarpur were relieved from the basic training with immediate effect. The incident has prompted many to question the impact of the 'Yudh Nashian Virudh' program started by the AAP-led Punjab government to eradicate drug menace from state. Sources said that the trainee recruits reportedly exhibited suspicious behavior and that it was decided to conduct their dope tests. They trainees were tested on May 21 at the Civil Hospital in Hoshiarpur. Of the six trainees relieved from training, three were from Patiala district, two from Tarn Taran, and one from Ludhiana. They were all from the same batch, No. 270. All six have been sent back to their respective districts and struck off from the training program, said an official on condition of anonymity. The official letter issued by Camp Adjutant (Outdoor) Kuldeep Singh of Punjab Police Recruit Training Centre at Jahankhelan in Hoshiarpur on May 24, stated that the behaviour of the trainees indicated possible use of odourless intoxicants thus prompting the decision to subject them to a drug screening. The letter was addressed to Ludhiana Police Commissioner and senior police officials of Tarn Taran and Patiala. The office of the civil surgeon confirmed the positive results to the training centre authorities following which immediate disciplinary action was taken. The letter further stated that the names of recruits have been struck off from the ongoing training batch, and they have been directed to return to their respective districts. The district police officials concerned have been instructed to monitor and address the drug-related issues of the dismissed recruits to prevent any negative influence on other personnel. The problem of the drug abuse is prevalent in the state. Last month, a constable of the state police who rose to fame on social media as Insta Queen, Amandeep Kaur, was arrested for drug possession. 17 grams of drugs were recovered from her Thar jeep during a search on Badal Road in Bathinda last month, after which she was dismissed from service. On Monday, the Punjab Vigilance Bureau arrested her in connection with a disproportionate assets case. She was taken into custody from the residence of Raftar Khan, the elder sister of singer Afsana Khan, at Badal village in Muktsar district. Sources said that during the investigation, they found Amandeep had amassed assets worth approximately Rs 31 lakh more than her known sources of income between 2018 and 2025. Interestingly, the Punjab Government had started war against drugs Yudh Nashian Virudh to eradicate drug menace from state, and till date, 13,449 drug smugglers have been arrested in last 85 days. The state government is claiming to enforce a three-pronged strategy Enforcement, Deaddiction and Prevention (EDP) to eradicate drugs from the state. A few years back an assistant sub-inspector and a head constable of Tarant Taran were dismissed from service after they tested positive in a dope test. Both were posted at Patti and the Tarn Taran civil hospital had conducted their dope test.
EC declares five Assembly bypolls across four states
NEW DELHI: The Election Commission of India on Sunday announced the schedule for holding Assembly bypolls to fill vacancies from two segments in Gujarat and one each in Kerala, Punjab and West Bengal. Voting for the same will take place on June 19 and counting on June 23. In Gujarat, the bypoll to the Kadi seat was necessitated following the death of sitting MLA Karsanbhai Punjabhai Solanki. Another bypoll to the Visavadar seat in the state is taking place due to the resignation of sitting member Bhayani Bhupendrabhai. The byelection to the Visavadar seat is likely to be a triangular contest, with the AAP already announcing its candidate and Congress stating that it would go solo in the bypoll. In Kerala, the byelection will be held in Nilambur to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of PV Anvar, an LDF-backed MLA, in January this year. He was appointed convenor of the Kerala unit of the Trinamool Congress (TMC). The ruling Left Democratic Front and Opposition UDF in Kerala are working overtime to fix their candidates for the seat. Further, in Punjab, the byelection will be held in Ludhiana West as the seat fell vacant because of the demise of Gurpreet Bassi Gogi. Likewise, the byelection to the Kaliganj Assembly seat in West Bengal has been necessitated due to the death of sitting Assembly member Nasiruddin Ahamed. He died of a cardiac arrest in February this year. Earlier, on May 23, in line with various initiatives aimed at enhancing voter initiative and streamlining poll day arrangements, the ECI had issued two more comprehensive instructions for providing mobile deposit facilities for voters outside the polling stations and rationalising norms for canvassing, according to an official statement. The instructions are in line with the relevant provisions of the Representation of the People Act of 1951 and the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961. Further, in a move aimed at improving facilities on the polling day, the ECI has also rationalised the permissible norms for canvassing in line with the electoral laws to 100 metres from the entrance of the polling station. The booths set up by the candidates on poll day for issuing unofficial identity slips to voters not carrying the official ones can now be set up just beyond 100 metres of any polling station. Bengal poll fight The byelection to the Kaliganj Assembly seat in West Bengal has been necessitated due to the death of sitting Assembly member Nasiruddin Ahamed. A triangular contest The bypoll to the Visavadar seat in Gujarat is taking place due to the resignation of sitting member Bhayani Bhupendrabhai. The byelection to the seat is likely to be a triangular contest, with AAP announcing its candidate and Congress stating it would go solo.
CHANDIGARH: Punjab Congress president and Member of Parliament from Ludhiana, Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, on Sunday alleged that the BJP government at the Centre had hatched a major conspiracy to seize 44 lakh acres of Muslim land by bringing in the Waqf Act. He further claimed that after targeting Muslims, the saffron partys next focus could be the Sikh community, and similar actions could be taken against the properties of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC). Addressing the Samvidhan Bachao Sabha at Malerkotla, Warring alleged that the BJP had created an atmosphere of fear among Muslims across the country. Asserting that the BJP was against Muslims, he pointed out that of the 240 MPs the BJP had in the Lok Sabha, not one of them was a Muslim. He expressed confidence that the BJP and the RSS would not be allowed to succeed in Punjab, a state where people live in harmony. There are places in Punjab where the Sikh community has provided land for mosques and graveyards for the Muslim brethren, he said. He further alleged that the BJP government at the Centre and the AAP government in the state were undermining the Constitution by muzzling the voice of the opposition. He pointed out how the BJP was using central investigating agencies like the ED, the CBI and the Income Tax Department against political opponents. Warring said the AAP government in Punjab was no different. He referred to the case against Congress Legislative Party leader Partap Singh Bajwa, who had merely cautioned against possible grenade attacks in the state. He observed that the AAP government had completely failed in Punjab. The way the AAP government is taking loans, the total debt by the end of its term may cross Rs 6 lakh crore, he said. It will be difficult for the next government to carry out any developmental works. Even the salaries of employees will be difficult to be paid. Referring to the anti-drug campaign of the AAP government, he said the fight against drugs is a long-drawn one and cannot be completed within any fixed deadline. It is not very easy to wean people from drug addiction, he said, calling for a comprehensive and long-term strategy to deal with the problem instead of resorting to publicity stunts. Warring told the gathering that if Malerkotla had been granted district status today, it was only because of the assiduous efforts of senior party leader and former minister from the area, Razia Sultana.
Ludhiana West assembly bypoll on June 19: AAP aims to retain seat amid stiff competition
CHANDIGARH: With the announcement of by-elections to the Ludhiana (West) assembly constituency in Punjab, to be held on June 19, the battle lines are drawn. The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) hopes to retain the seat, but given the recent electoral history of this segment, the bypoll is not likely to be a cakewalk for the party, especially after its rout in the Delhi assembly elections. According to the schedule released by the Election Commission of India, the official notification will be issued on May 26. The last date for filing nominations is June 2, and scrutiny of the papers will take place on June 3. Candidates can withdraw their nominations until June 5. The counting of votes will take place on June 23. The Model Code of Conduct has come into immediate effect. This by-election is being held following the demise of sitting AAP MLA Gurpreet Gogi. All three major political parties in the state have already announced their candidates. AAP has named Rajya Sabha member Sanjeev Arora, an industrialist now known for his work in social welfare. The Congress has fielded former minister and two-time MLA from this seat, Bharat Bhushan Ashu. The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has nominated Parupkar Singh Ghuman, while the BJP is yet to announce its candidate. A few days ago, AAP supremo and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal launched the partys campaign for the upcoming assembly bypoll. In last years parliamentary elections, AAPs Ashok Parashar alias Pappi finished a distant third on the Ludhiana Lok Sabha seat, which was won by Amarinder Raja Warring of the Congress. Ravneet Singh alias Bittu of the BJP, who was earlier in Congress and the sitting MP from this seat, finished second. Out of the nine assembly segments under the Ludhiana Lok Sabha constituency, including Ludhiana (West), the BJP led in five urban constituencies, and the Congress led in four segments, including two rural ones. The ruling AAP failed to lead in any of the nine segments. It was a similar situation in the Municipal Corporation Elections in December last year. AAP won 41 out of 85 wards, falling short of a majority by seven seats, while Congress won 30 and BJP secured 18 wards. Notably, the wives of the then MLA Gurpreet Gogi (who is now deceased) and Ashok Parashar lost from their respective wards. Bharat Bhushan Ashu of the Congress was arrested when the AAP government came to power in the state three years ago in connection with a foodgrains scam. He remained behind bars for two years. However, in December last year, the Punjab and Haryana High Court quashed the FIRs registered against him, terming them pure vendetta. Both Arora and Ashu have already started door-to-door campaigns and are holding public meetings. The contest is expected to grow even more intense in the coming days.
Bypoll in Bengals Kaliganj seat acid test for CM Mamata Banerjee
Kolkata: Kaliganj Assembly constituency in Nadia district of West Bengal is among the five Assembly constituencies that are scheduled to go for bypolls on June 19. The counting will be on June 23. The other four constituencies that will go to the polls are Kadi and Visavdar in Gujarat, Ludhiana-West in Punjab, and Nilambur in Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Punjab 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.
Days after Amritsar hootch tragedy, 3 die consuming liquor in Ludhiana
Three labourers Rinku (40), Debi (27) and Mangoo (32) consumed liquor at a vacant plot along Noorwala Road on May 21, 2025 night
Days after Amritsar hooch tragedy, three die in Ludhiana after consuming spurious liquor
CHANDIGARH: Three people have died after allegedly consuming spurious liquor at Basti Jodhewal in Ludhiana, just days after the hooch tragedy in Amritsar in which 27 people lost their lives. Confirming the deaths, Ludhiana police commissioner Swapan Sharma said, Prima facie, four men were together last night, of which three who had consumed liquor have died. Autopsy reports are awaited to know the cause of death. A case has been registered against unidentified persons at Basti Jodhewal Police Station and investigations are going on. Sources said that three labourers Rinku (40), Debi (27) and Mangoo Rai (32) consumed liquor at a vacant plot along Noorwala Road on Wednesday night and shortly after, they lost consciousness and began frothing at the mouth. They were rushed to the civil hospital, where doctors declared them dead. A police officer said that some samples have been collected from the liquor vend of the area. Dr Harpreet Singh, senior medical officer of Civil Hospital, Ludhiana, said the police on Wednesday brought three bodies. The exact cause of death will be known when we get the report of the chemical examiner, he said. Earlier this month, 27 people lost their lives in Amritsar after consuming spurious liquor. Most of the victims were daily wagers. State Congress president and Ludhiana MP Amarinder Singh Raja Warring condemned the Punjab governments failure to prevent the production and supply of spurious liquor in the state. He said it was more shocking because the victims had purchased the liquor reportedly from a government approved vend. Warring said that the manufacturers of spurious liquor were cocking a snook at the government, as they had no fear of the law. There cannot be a worse fact check on the governments so-called 'war on drugs', he said. This government instead of claiming victory over drugs, should hang its head in shame and apologise to the people of Punjab for failing to rein in the spurious liquor smugglers, he added. Punjab BJP spokesperson Pritpal Singh Baliawal said three young lives were lost after consuming suspected toxic liquor in Ludhiana, yet the Bhagwant Mann-led AAP government is silent. While mothers are crying and families are shattered, the Punjab government continues its PR drama of a so-called War Against Drugs a war that exists only on paper. On the ground, the drug and liquor mafia are thriving like never before, fearless and untouched, he said. Baliawal questioned, Is this the Rangla Punjab that Arvind Kejriwal and Bhagwant Mann promised? Or is this the new reality where funeral shrouds are replacing dreams, and youth are buried before they can even live? Whats worse, AAP leaders including Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia are right now camped in Ludhiana for bypoll campaigning yet they have turned a blind eye to these tragic deaths. Their silence is not just shameful, it is criminal, he alleged.
