CGST Ludhiana unearths Rs 260 crore fake billing scam in iron, steel sector; 2 arrested
CGST Ludhiana officers busted a syndicate in Mandi Gobindgarh involved in fake ITC claims within the iron and steel sector. The operation revealed a scheme using debt-ridden rolling mills to evade GST scrutiny. Two individuals have been arrested, with preliminary assessments indicating bogus bills worth Rs 260 crore and a GST loss of Rs 47 crore.
Punjab Police reveal bomb threats to Golden Temple were sent through 'dark net', VPN
CHANDIGARH: Police have revealed that the emails sent to the Shiromani Parkhandak Gurdwara Committee (SGPC) threatening to bomb the Golden Temple were sent via the 'Dark Net' and 'Virtual Private Network' (VPN). Sources said that the SGPC received nine threats via email since July 14. Three days ago, Sri Guru Ram Dass Ji International Airport at Amritsar received an RDX blast threat, following which the CISF and Punjab Police tightened the security around the airport. On July 18, the Nanakjhira Gurdwara management in Bidar in Karnataka also received an RDX blast threat. Sources said that all threatening emails had similar content, as the sender repeatedly raised issues related to the people of Tamil Nadu, criticising the government of that state. We strongly believe that the emails were sent from Tamil Nadu, but we have to substantiate it with technical evidence. We have approached a US-based software company and its subsidiary companies, which can provide the source of the same; we are waiting for a response. We have also informed central agencies, said an officer on condition of anonymity. The police arrested Shubham Dubey from Faridabad in Haryana following a technical probe. His laptop and mobile were seized and sent for forensic analysis. Meanwhile, Congress MPs from Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh on Thursday staged a demonstration outside the parliament house, demanding immediate action related to threats being issued to the Golden Temple in Amritsar. Those who joined the protest included Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, Charanjit Singh Cahnni, Dr Amar Singh, Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, Dharamvir Gandhi, Manish Tewari, Kumari Selja, Sher Singh Ghubaya and Gurjeet Singh Aujla. Later, talking to the media, Punjab Congress President and Ludhiana MP Warring pointed out that threats were continuously being issued against the Golden Temple. He said that while the Punjab government had claimed to have arrested one of the accused, he was said to be not involved in issuing the threats. He said, the union government and the union Home Ministry must take serious note of these threats and identify the culprits and bring them to book. They must understand the seriousness and sensitivity of the matter, he added.
TDI clears Rs 2,000 crore debt, to focus on expansion
TDI Infrastructure Ltd., a prominent North Indian developer, has eliminated its Rs 2,000 crore debt by strategically selling land in Delhi and surrounding areas. The company is now focusing on growth and efficiency, with plans to develop a major project in TDI City, Kundli, and expand into the Ludhiana micro-market.
HC Raps Sri Amarnath Shrine Board, Restores Langar Rights of Bhole Bhandari Trust
NL Correspondent Jammu Tawi, July 23: The High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has directed the Sri Amarnath Shrine Board to entertain the pending request of the Bhole Bhandari Charitable Trust (Regd.), Ludhiana to be considered for holding Langar at Panjtarni as they have been doing in the past. The singly Bench presided [] The post HC Raps Sri Amarnath Shrine Board, Restores Langar Rights of Bhole Bhandari Trust appeared first on Northlines .
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.
Black flags greet team aiming to build consensus for land-pooling
Arora meets Goyal, seeks support for Pbs industrial & logistics hub
Centres help also sought for Jalandhars sports goods sector
DC inspects offices to check proper execution of easy registry system
BJP spokesperson flags inordinate delay in construction of road
Asst prof post quashed, uncertain days for couple
MC seals 6 illegal bldgs under construction
Tussle over family-run gurdwara: Bros turn foes
4 villages get vacuum tankers from Seechewal
CHANDIGARH: The political scenario in Punjab is heating up once again. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government now finds itself in hot water as farmer unions in the state gear up to take a stand against the controversial land pooling scheme. This agitation is set to reshape the political dynamics in the state. A tractor march is scheduled for July 30, followed by a grand rally on August 24. Whats particularly intriguing this time is that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), along with the Congress, Shiromani Akali Dal and Left parties, is stepping in to provide tactical support for the farmers' agitation a noteworthy turn of events since these unions have historically opposed the saffron party. The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) on Friday held a meeting with representatives of all political parties to explain their stance on the land pooling policy, which they perceive will turn farmers from 'landlords to landless'. This meeting was attended by representatives of the Congress, BJP, Shiromani Akali Dal and communist parties among others. In similar meetings convened by the SKM during the course of the 2020-21 farmer protests at the Delhi border, leaders of the saffron party were not invited. Senior SKM leader and President of BKU Lakhowal Harinder Singh Lakhowal told The New Indian Express that the SKM invited all political parties for the meeting including the AAP but the latter did not send a representative. The BJP was represented by Kewal Dhillon. It was decided in the meeting that the farmers unions and all others are opposed to the land pooling scheme recently floated by the ruling AAP. Thus, on July 30, a tractor march will be held in villages where land is being acquired mainly around Ludhiana as the government wants to acquire 24,000 acres in that belt. Then, on August 24, a big rally will be held at Mullapur Dhakha near Ludhiana, where farmers from across the state will come, he said. When representatives of political parties came to attend our meeting, we told them categorically that we welcome their tactical support but they will not be allowed to share the stage with farmer leaders. We did not allow it even during the protest against the three now repealed farm laws on the borders of Delhi, he said. He added that the state government should call a special assembly session and cancel all the water agreements besides implementing the recently announced agriculture policy. Senior Punjab BJP leader Rajinder Mohan Singh Chhina said the state government was hell-bent on ruining Punjabs farmers by grabbing their land to hand it over to the real estate mafia. He said the party would fight for the cause of farmers by staging protests and exploring legal options. Chinna alleged that in Amritsar district alone, more than 4400 acres of land is being grabbed by the government in the name of land pooling. Our party is committed to fight for the cause of the farmers, he said, adding that more than 75,000 acres of land is being taken up throughout Punjab by the state government. During the farmers' agitation against land pooling under the aegis of the Zameen Bachao Sangharsh Committee, two BJP leaders Gurdev Sharma Debi and Balkar Singh Sidhu have already addressed farmers gatherings around Ludhiana. Leaders of the SKM who are opposed to the BJP dismiss this as a one-off incident but leaders of the saffron party have been seen at various protests organized by farmer unions along with others. In 2022, the AAP had stormed to power with an overwhelming majority due to the tactical support of some farmer unions, especially from the Malwa region. Regarding the land pooling scheme, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said it is completely farmer-friendly and based on mutual consent. Not a single inch of land will be forcibly taken from any farmer. Whether to give land or not is entirely up to the farmers will, he said. Criticizing the Congress, BJP and Akali Dal, Cheema alleged that during the previous governments in the past decade and a half, thousands of illegal colonies were developed in Punjab, where even basic facilities like roads, electricity, water and sewerage were absent. He alleged that in the last ten years, with the collusion of senior leaders of the Akali-BJP and Congress governments, land mafias illegally developed colonies on approximately 30,000 acres of land across various cities. Cheema said that keeping in mind the hardships faced by the common people, the AAP government decided to acquire land itself through a land pooling policy. This will benefit both farmers and the public, he added.
How Punjab Woman, Daughter Duped Bachelors To Exploit Their Desire To Settle Abroad
A mother-daughter duo from Punjab's Ludhiana district found a novel way to dupe prospective bachelor emigrants to Canada by exploiting their eagerness to settle abroad.
'Illegal' drugs sale case: Enforcement Directorate raids de-addiction centres in Punjab, Maharashtra
The raids are being conducted in Chandigarh, Ludhiana and Barnala in Punjab and in Mumbai, Maharashtra, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, official sources said
Police foil murder plot; arrest realtor, contract killer
Health dept seeks public support to prevent dengue cases
Rejuvenation nearly done but Buddha Dariya still in choppy waters
Classroom to crisis: SC ruling on teachers recruitment sparks protests
Man claims to be gangster Gopi Lahoria, demands Rs 50 lakh
Environmentalists and GM Free India are protesting Punjab's NoC for GM maize trials, issued over a year after a similar clearance for GM mustard. They've urged the agriculture minister to investigate the scientific basis and withdraw the NoC, granted to Bayer for trials at PAU, Ludhiana. Concerns arise as Punjab seems uniquely positive compared to other states regarding safety information.
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.
Miscreants attack property advisor house with petrol bomb and gunfire in Ludhiana.
Kila Raipurs heart begins to race
Sand spill blocks morning traffic
Couple suffers burn injuries in Ludhiana gas cylinder leak incident.
Ludhiana police arrest brothers for alleged cheating forgery and cricket betting.
Amarnath pilgrim from Ludhiana goes missing in Ganderbal
Srinagar, July 12: An Amarnath pilgrim, identified as Surinder Pal Arora from Ludhiana, went missing in Ganderbal district after reportedly jumping over a railing near Z-Morh during a bout of high-altitude sickness, police said on Saturday. Arora was trekking from Brarimarg to Railpathri with six others when he began behaving erratically around midnightrunning aimlessly, taking [] The post Amarnath pilgrim from Ludhiana goes missing in Ganderbal appeared first on Northlines .
Amarnath Yatri From Ludhiana Goes Missing In J&Ks Ganderbal
Srinagar, Jul 12: An Amarnath yatri went missing in Ganderbal district after jumping off a railing, police said on Saturday. Surinder Pal Arora, a resident of Ludhiana, was trekking from Brarimarg to Railpathri in a group of seven when, around midnight, high-altitude sickness gripped him, police said. Arora exhibited erratic behaviour, started running up and down, took cold water showers, and later jumped from the railing near Z-Morh, near a glacier, they said. Police, Mountain Rescue Teams (MRTs), and SDRF, [] The post Amarnath Yatri From Ludhiana Goes Missing In J&Ks Ganderbal appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Woman held for Rs 35 lakh fraud
Industrialists seek govt support to go green
Will not part with fertile land: Protesting farmers
Police conduct search operation in Central Jail
NGT orders Mandi Board to submit affidavit on waste management
Ludhiana court sentences 4 to life for murdering man over old enmity
In Ludhiana, a court convicts four in a 2020 murder case. Gobinda, Sagar, Baljeet Singh, and Gurmail Singh receive life sentences. The victim, Dara Singh, was killed following an argument stemming from a past gambling dispute. Bahadur Singh, the victim's brother, witnessed the brutal attack. Evidence and witness testimonies led to the conviction.
One arrested after Dalit youth assaulted, paraded half-naked in Ludhiana village
LUDHIANA: A young Dalit man was assaulted and paraded half-naked with his face forcibly shaved and blackened after his friend eloped with a woman in a village here, police said on Sunday. A viral video of the incident, which happened at Seeda village on the outskirts of Ludhiana on Tuesday, has sparked widespread outrage. One person has been arrested in connection with the incident, while efforts are on to nab others involved, police added. According to police, Harjot Singh was targeted by the woman's family after they suspected him of helping the couple elope. Harjot's friend and the woman is said to have solemnised their marriage on June 19, following which tensions persisted in the village. On Tuesday, Harjot was at a salon when some men barged in, dragged him out and brutally assaulted him. They forcibly shaved off his beard and moustache, blackened his face, tore his clothes and paraded him semi-naked through the streets while hurling casteist slurs. The men also filmed the act and circulated it on social media, police said. The attackers have been identified as Gurpreet alias Gopa, Simranjeet Singh alias Simma, Sandeep alias Sam, Rajveer, and Ramandeep alias Kaka, they added. An FIR was registered on Saturday under Sections 115(2), 127(2) and 351 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita as well as the provisions of the IT Act and the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. Inspector Paramdeep Singh of Meharban police station confirmed that Simranjeet Singh has been arrested. He said all the remaining accused will be brought to book soon. This is not just a case of physical assault. It is a brutal attack on human dignity. We are investigating the matter thoroughly, said a senior police official. The victim's family has demanded justice and maximum punishment for the accused.
CHANDIGARH: With 19 months to go for the 2027 Assembly elections in the state, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday carried out yet another cabinet reshuffle, his seventh in a little over three years. In this reshuffle, newly elected Ludhiana (West) MLA Sanjeev Arora was inducted into the cabinet, while NRI Affairs Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal resigned. Arora, a 61-year-old Ludhiana-based industrialist and social worker, who served as a Rajya Sabha MP for three years, was sworn in as a cabinet minister after winning the Ludhiana (West) by-election held on 23 June. He defeated his nearest Congress rival Bharat Bhushan Ashu by 10,637 votes. The seat had fallen vacant after sitting AAP MLA Gurpreet Singh Gogi allegedly died in January this year due to an accidental firearm discharge at his home. Arora had resigned from the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, a day before his swearing-in, which took place at the Punjab Raj Bhavan in Chandigarh. Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria administered the oath of office and secrecy to Arora in a simple ceremony conducted by Chief Secretary KAP Sinha. The oath was taken in Punjabi and the ceremony lasted only six minutes, concluding with a rendition of the national anthem. Arora is also known for his social welfare work and runs the Krishna Pran Breast Cancer Charitable Trust. With his induction, the total number of ministers in the Mann cabinet rose to 17, including the Chief Minister. However, Dhaliwals resignation brought the total back down to 16, with two berths remaining vacant. Dhaliwal, an MLA from the Ajnala constituency, announced his resignation via a post on X, writing, My hard work continues for the welfare of the people of Punjab. Sources said Arora has been allocated the portfolios of the Department of Industry and the Department of NRI Affairs. The Industries portfolio was taken away from Tarunpreet Singh Sond, who will continue to handle Rural Development, Labour and Tourism. Chief Minister Mann congratulated Arora on the new role. Sanjeev Arora ji has been given the responsibility of Industry & Commerce, Investment Promotion, NRI Affairs departments. I hope that Sanjeev Arora ji will live up to the expectations of the people of Punjab. He will work with full honesty and without any discrimination for the development of Punjab and the welfare of 3 crore people of the state, Mann said in a post on X. During the bypoll campaign, AAP convener and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had said that Arora would be made a minister if elected. The last cabinet reshuffle in Punjab took place in September last year, when five new ministers were inducted and four were dropped.
Punjab: Newly elected Ludhiana West MLA Sanjeev Arora sworn-in as Cabinet minister
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann bolstered his cabinet by inducting Sanjeev Arora, the newly elected MLA from Ludhiana West, as a minister. Governor Gulab Chand Kataria administered the oath at Raj Bhavan. Arora's inclusion brings the cabinet's strength to 17, fulfilling AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal's promise made during the bypoll campaign following Gurpreet Bassi Gogi's death.
Punjab man, injured in Pakistan aerial strike, dies
Lakhwinder Singh, injured in May during a Pakistani aerial strike when missile debris fell on his Punjab home, has died in a Ludhiana hospital. He succumbed to his injuries 54 days after the incident, following his wife's death on May 13. Their son, Jaswinder Singh, also injured in the attack, is now left bereaved after losing both parents.
CHANDIGARH: Two months after Sukhwinder Kaur died following a Pakistani drone attack , her husband, 65-year old Lakhwinder Singh of Khai Pheme Ki village in Ferozepur district of Punjab, succumbed to his injuries at Dayanand Medical College and Hospital (DMCH) in Ludhiana. This is the second recorded civilian casualty outside Jammu and Kashmir caused by a drone attack by Pakistan. Sources said that Singh had sustained 70 per cent burns as debris of drone fell on their car parked in the verandah of their house on the night of May 8, after a Pakistani drone was intercepted by the Indian Air Defense system and shot down. The vehicle caught fire and caused severe burn injuries to Lakhwinder Singh, his wife Sukhwinder Kaur, and their son Jaswant Singh (24). Jaswant Singh suffered from leg injuries and has now recovered after treatment. Singh was undergoing treatment at Dayanand Medical College and Hospital (DMCH) in Ludhiana and government was bearing the expenses. Singh has been in critical condition since then and was on dialysis and died late yesterday night. On May 13, his wife Sukhwinder Kaur died due to 100 per cent burns. Their son Jaswant had been with his parents during their treatment. The state government bore the medical expenses of the couple. When the incident took place, Singh was trying to sleep, while Sukhwinder Kaur was in the kitchen. Despite the blackout, the lights were reportedly still on in their house when the debris of the drone struck. On May 9 evening, several drones were spotted in the Ferozepur cantonment and nearby areas amid the India-Pakistan tension following Operatation Sindoor.
Arora likely to be inducted into Mann-led cabinet
Sanjeev Arora, Aam Aadmi Party's Ludhiana West by-election winner, is expected to join the Punjab Cabinet. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann will reshuffle the cabinet this week, filling vacant positions and assigning new portfolios. Arora, a Rajya Sabha member, is recognized for his understanding of industry needs. Arvind Kejriwal had promised Arora a cabinet position if elected.
CHANDIGARH: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has suspended former IPS officer-turned-MLA from Amritsar (North), Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh, from the party for five years for anti-party activities, following a string of public criticisms levelled by him against his own government. Kunwar had recently questioned the action taken by the Punjab Vigilance Bureau against senior Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia, prompting the party to suspend him, citing his remarks as anti-party activities. He has also not been attending party meetings for the past few months. The suspension was decided at a Political Affairs Committee meeting, said party sources. He had criticised Majithias arrest, stating that when the Akali leader was previously arrested, the government had not sought his remand and had instead accused police officers of facilitating his bail. He termed the arrest unethical. Kunwar said that although he had ideological differences with Majithia, this case was about ethics and integrity in the process. Majithia was arrested from his house in Amritsar last week. Kunwar has, on several occasions, publicly questioned his own partys government, particularly over the handling of the 2015 sacrilege cases and related police firing incidents. After the recent hooch tragedy in Amritsar, in which 27 people died after consuming illicit liquor, Kunwar alleged that some AAP leaders had joined hands with the liquor mafia. Commenting on Kunwars expulsion, AAP spokesperson Neel Garg said, He has been consistently making public statements against party activities, which is against political decorum and is unacceptable under any circumstances. Garg stated that the action taken against Bikram Majithia had the full support of the people of Punjab. For the first time, the people of the state feel that the government is genuinely taking action against the drug mafia. However, despite being an MLA from the party, Kunwar deliberately spoke against this action, which is entirely inappropriate, he said. He added that the AAP government was working with full commitment to eradicating drugs from Punjab and that the Punjab Police was continuously cracking down on drug smugglers and sending them to jail. At such a time, statements like those made by Kunwar are highly condemnable and unfortunate. Garg noted that if Kunwar had any objections, he could have raised them on the party platform or with the Chief Minister, instead of airing his grievances publicly. This is clearly against party rules, he said. Our goal is clear: to eradicate drugs, crime and corruption from Punjab, and anyone hindering this fight will not be tolerated. There can be no compromise in the battle against drugs, Garg asserted. He further said the action against Majithia was not only supported by the general public but also by several former police officers and ex-Enforcement Directorate officials involved in the investigations. These officials had provided vital information about Majithias activities to the Vigilance Department. Soon after news of his suspension emerged on social media, Kunwar posted on Facebook: Kabir, jis marne te jag dare, mere man anand (Kabir, the world is afraid of dying, but my mind is happy), hinting that he had no regrets. Commenting on the development, Punjab Congress President and Member of Parliament from Ludhiana, Amarinder Raja Warring, wrote on X, While suspension of @Kvijaypratap Singh is indeed an internal matter of the @AamAadmiParty, but that in no way means that the @AAPPunjab government does not owe answers to questions he has raised. Sacrilege and drugs remain unresolved. Party may have unsuccessfully tried to silence his voice, which it could not, it definitely cant avoid the questions that have started being raised. AAP governments question hour has begun and everyone knows it has no answers. It may suspend its MLA from the party, but what about 3 crore Punjabis who are asking the same questions Kunwar Vijay Pratap has been asking. Congress MLA Sukhpal Khaira said this just proved that there was no space for dissent or truthful politics in AAP. Khaira had earlier been elected as an MLA on an AAP ticket in 2017 but had soon parted ways with the party. Kunwar had also shared a video on Facebook on June 25, the day Majithia was arrested, and wrote: The dignity of a family is shared by allwhether one is a politician, actor, rich or poor, friend or foe. Carrying out a raid at someone's house early in the morning is against principles. Almost every government has misused the police and vigilance agencies for its own benefit, but the result has never been significant. He further wrote, I may have political or ideological differences with someone, but when it comes to principles, religion, and integrity, it becomes necessary to discuss. When Majithia sahib was in jail in a case registered during the Congress government, the Mann government did not seek any remand nor did any questioning. Later, the state apparatus under Mann sahib even facilitated his bail. The honourable high court granted bail (to Majithia) on grounds that if the police do not require (him) for interrogation, keeping in custody is against the law. When he was in custody, the government facilitated his bail, and now suddenly, notices are issued to him for questioning, and today a raid is being conducted at his house, he added. Kunwar had earlier expressed dissatisfaction over the handling of the 2015 sacrilege and police firing incident cases in Faridkot, repeatedly raising the issue in the Assembly. He was part of the special investigation team of the Punjab Police that probed the 2015 Kotkapura and Behbal Kalan police firing incidents. After taking premature retirement from the police service in 2021, he joined AAP and was later elected as the MLA from the Amritsar North seat.
AAP leader Sanjeev Arora takes oath as Ludhiana West MLA
Sanjeev Arora of AAP was sworn in as MLA for Ludhiana West after winning the recent bypoll, with Punjab Minister Aman Arora praising his honesty and thanking voters for their support. The victory leaves AAP's Rajya Sabha seat vacant, with the party yet to decide on a replacement.
CHANDIGARH: With 19 months left till the 2027 assembly elections, the Punjab Congress leadership is apprehensive that the current AAP-led Punjab government might target party leaders who are facing vigilance inquiries. Such concerns have been raised following the arrest of Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Majithia in a drugs and disproportionate assets case, while former Health Minister and AAP MLA Vijay Singla and his OSD Pradeep Kumar were given a clean chit in a corruption case registered against them in 2022. Sources said that a charge sheet has been filed in cases registered against former Congress MLA Kushaldeep Singh Dhillon and former cabinet minister OP Soni. Other Congress leaders who are facing vigilance inquiries include: Punjab Congress President and Member of Parliament from Ludhiana Amarinder Raja Warring, former Chief Minister and Member of Parliament from Jalandhar Charanjit Singh Channi, former cabinet ministers Sunder Shyam Arora and Vijay Inder Singla, and MLAs Barindemeet Singh Pahra and Pargat Singh. Channi, who himself is under the scrutiny of the vigilance, claimed that those politicians who are vocal against the government are being targeted by the AAP government. They have already been after me for a long time, several party leaders, including Jalandhar (Cantonment) MLA Pargat Singh, were under the lens of the vigilance bureau. After Bikram Majithia, Pargat Singh might be next target of the government, he said. Ludhiana MP Warring said, It would be premature to comment at this moment. On the other hand, Punjab Police has given a clean chit to former Health Minister and AAP MLA Vijay Singla and his OSD Pradeep Kumar in corruption case registered against them in 2022 at Phase 8 Police Station in Mohali. The state police have filed a closure report in a court in Mohali recently, citing that no conclusive evidence was found to proceed against the accused. The court will take up the matter on July 14. While thhe complainant in the case, Rajinder Singh, a government engineer on deputation with Punjab Health System Corporation, has agreed with the closure report. It is worth mentioning here that the complainant had submitted that he was summoned to Punjab Bhawan, and a commission of one per cent was demanded from him. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had dismissed Singla from his cabinet.
Kuldeep Singh Mundia, ex-aide to Shiromani Akali Dal leader Jagdev Singh Talwandi, was killed near Ludhiana. Attackers assaulted him with swords. Police are investigating the murder. Separately, SAD workers protested the arrest of Bikram Singh Majithia. His wife criticized the police action, alleging improper procedure. The Punjab Vigilance Bureau took Majithia into custody and searched his home.
Newly-elected MLA from Ludhiana West Sanjeev Arora administered oath by Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker
Arora had defeated Congress candidate Bharat Bhushan Ashu by a margin of 10,637 votes in the Ludhiana West Assembly bypoll
Ludhiana Couple Consume Poison, Die After Alleged Harassment By Bank Officials Over Loan Dues
Despite paying 55 EMIs regularly, one delayed payment this month allegedly led to pressure and threats from the banks recovery team
Meerut Murder Dj Vu: Ludhiana Man's Body Tied With Rope Found Stuffed In A Blue Drum
Police confirmed that the body, believed to be that of a man around 40 years old, was wrapped in a bedsheet
Punjab: After Meerut drum murder case, man's body found in a blue drum in Ludhiana
A dead body was discovered in a blue drum in Ludhiana's Sherpur area. The victim's limbs were tied. Rag pickers found the drum and alerted the police due to a foul smell. Police investigation revealed the body was wrapped in a bedsheet inside a gunny bag. The victim is estimated to be around 40 years old.
Resignations pile up in Punjab Congress as party rift deepens after Ludhiana West loss
CHANDIGARH: All is not well within the faction-ridden Punjab Congress following the partys defeat in the Ludhiana (West) by-election, as senior leaders Pargat Singh and Kushaldeep Dhillon have resigned from their posts as state unit vice-presidents. This comes close on the heels of former cabinet minister and party candidate Bharat Bhushan Ashu quitting his post. The knives are now being unsheathed within the grand old party, albeit carefully and in a calibrated manner. Both leaders have sent their resignations to All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary (organisation) KC Venugopal and general secretary in-charge for Punjab Bhupesh Baghel. Party sources said both Pargat and Dhillon, who had actively campaigned for Ashu, felt the election result called for honest introspection and that it would be wrong to interpret it as an individuals defeat. Punjab Congress president and Member of Parliament from Ludhiana, Amrinder Singh Raja Warring, and Leader of the Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa had largely stayed away from canvassing, appearing only in the final days of the partys campaign. Ludhiana district Congress chief Sanjay Talwar and former MLAs Surinder Dawar, Kuldeep Singh Vaid and Rakesh Pandey also stayed away from Ashus campaign. Sources further revealed that Ashu had categorically told the party high command that Warring and Bajwa should not campaign for him due to his differences with both top leaders. The resignations reflect the deepening fault lines within the party. The campaign for the Ludhiana (West) by-election was spearheaded by a group of senior leaders, including former Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi, MLAs Rana Gurjeet Singh and Pargat Singh. Rana is the same leader who had earlier described Warring as a selfish leader and had shown a strong interest in becoming the state Congress president. The developments come a day after Bharat Bhushan Ashu, who was appointed working president of the Punjab Congress on April 11, 2022, resigned from his post. He stated, I take full moral responsibility for this defeat. The state Congress president and the Leader of Opposition were nowhere in the campaign. He added that he had sent his resignation to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Punjab Congress in-charge Bhupesh Baghel. Punjab Congress president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring said he was not aware of the development as the resignations had not been sent to him. It is for the party high command to see, he said. Meanwhile, the tussle between Simarjeet Singh Bains and Bharat Bhushan Ashu has also come out into the open, with Bains calling Ashu arrogant, while Ashu responded by saying he did not consider Bains a Congressman.
MoRTH to frame IRC guidelines after adopting new-age machines for faster highway construction
NEW DELHI: After the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) decided to adopt Automated and Intelligent Machine-aided Construction (AIMC) for highway development to ensure timely project completion, it announced that Indian Roads Congress (IRC) guidelines will be prepared based on feedback from contractors and concessionaires. The ministry has already sanctioned atleast 16 projects, where innovative machines will be used. According to the officials, Cabinet approval is awaited for 10 projects envisaged for implementation of AIMC system. With a significant growth in the national highways network including a significant increase in Greenfield and Brownfield highways with high embankments requiring a significant amount of earthwork and proper compaction in the last one decade, it has been felt appropriate to induct AIMC in highway construction, said officials. The decision to formally adopt the system was taken after evaluation of efficacy in a pilot; Lucknow-Kanpur Expressway Project, where in GPS-aided Motor Grader, Intelligent Compactor and Stringless Paver were used. The ministry also took into consideration the feedback from stakeholders and international guidelines and specifications. The ministry has also sought feedback on adoption of AIMC to formulate IRC guidelines, added officials. Officials added that the ministry would facilitate the concessionaire or contractor with the required license for the radio frequency range from the Department of Telecommunication (DoT) for the use of machines. The list of projects, which are already sanctioned, includes Western Bypass Gwalior (29 kms), 6-lane Greenfield Ludhiana Bypass (25 kms), Deoghar Bypass (49 kms), Shillong-Silchar Corridor (167 kms), Vrindavan Bypass (15 kms) and Patna-Arrah-Sasaram (125 kms) in Bihar. The projects which have been submitted for the Cabinet approval are Satellite Township Ring Road of Bengaluru (STRR) Karnataka (144 kms), BadveI Nellore Corridor (108 kms) in Andhra Pradesh, 4-lane access controlled Sirhind-Sehna section of NH-205AG (107 kms) in Punjab, and Nashik-Ahmednagar- Solapur-Akkalkot segment of the Surat-Chennai Expressway (374 kms). The ministry, in December, sought feedback from roads construction agencies, public work departments in states and union territories and other stakeholders on the proposal for adoption of the construction facilitated by innovatory. The benefits of AIMC are expected high adherence to design specification, improved rideability, performance durability and longevity and reduced wastage as well. The technology-driven construction also increases productivity, helps in real-time documentation, brings better transparency and minimises human interventions.
AAP tests it's anti-corruption plank in bypolls; bounces back
Aam Aadmi Party regained momentum after recent electoral setbacks. The party secured victories in Gujarat and Punjab by-elections. AAP retained both seats, improving their previous victory margins. The party focused on its anti-corruption platform. Gopal Italia won the Visavadar seat in Gujarat. Sanjeev Arora won in Ludhiana, Punjab. AAP leaders crafted campaigns focused on local issues.
Bypoll election results: AAP wins 2 seats, Trinamool & BJP 1 each; Congress wins in Kerala
In recent assembly by-polls across four states, AAP emerged victorious in two seats, retaining Ludhiana West and Visavadar. BJP, Congress, and Trinamool Congress each secured one seat, with BJP holding Kadi, Congress winning Nilambur from CPM, and Trinamool Congress retaining Kaliganj. The results reflect shifts in regional political dynamics ahead of upcoming elections.
AAP wins Ludhiana bypoll in Punjab; political circles see it as a face-saving victory
Congress candidate and working president of the State unit in Punjab resigns in the aftermath of the results
Recent bypolls across five Assembly seats in Gujarat, Kerala, West Bengal, and Punjab yielded mixed results. Congress' UDF secured Nilambur, dealing a blow to Kerala's LDF. TMC's Alifa Ahmed won Kaliganj by a significant margin. AAP retained Visavadar in Gujarat, while BJP held Kadi. In Punjab, AAP kept Ludhiana West, prompting Congress leader Ashu's resignation.
CHANDIGARH: The infighting and factionalism within the Congress appear to have cost the partys candidate Bharat Bhushan Ashu dearly in the Ludhiana (West) assembly bypoll. Punjab Congress president and Ludhiana MP Amarinder Singh Raja Warring and leader of opposition Partap Singh Bajwa were noticeably absent from the campaign. Despite Ashus aggressive campaign efforts, he only managed to get 24,542 votes in this bypoll -- a 27.22 per cent vote share, which is less than the 28.06 per cent vote share he got in the last elections when he got around 32,000 votes. Thus the grand old partys voter base in Ludhiana (West) seems to have eroded considerably. A visible rift between Punjab Congress president Amarinder Raja Warring and Ashu hurt the partys campaign. Warrings absence from key events including Ashus road show underlined the internal divisions. These differences within the state leadership severely damaged his winning prospects. In fact, Ashu ensured top leadership stayed away from his campaign trail. With both Warring and Bajwa noticeably absent from the campaigning, the party was led by former Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi and MLAs Rana Gurjeet and Pargat Singh. The faction-ridden Congress lost momentum during the crucial final stages. In a closed door meeting at the PPCC office where senior leaders including the party's Punjab in-charge and former chief minister of Chhattisgarh Bhupesh Baghel were present, the lack of involvement of the state leadership in the campaign was flagged. Baghel too appeared in Ludhiana only a day before canvassing ended. Earlier, he was present when Ashu filed his nomination papers. Ludhiana (West) assembly bypoll sees 51.33% voter turnout in four-cornered contest Punjab Congress working president Ashu served as MLA twice from this seat in 2012 and 2017. The 51-year-old was defeated by Gurpreet Bassi alias Gogi by a margin of 7,512 votes in the 2022 Punjab assembly polls. Ashu, who was food and civil supplies minister in the previous Congress government, recently got a clean chit from the Punjab and Haryana High Court in a corruption case, but was unable to emulate his earlier victories. The BJP failed to capitalise on the momentum from last year's Lok Sabha polls, despite aggressive campaigning by Union Ministers Ravneet Singh Bittu and Hardeep Singh Puri, former Union minister Anurag Thakur, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar. Party candidate Jivan Gupta, who is a member of the core committee of the Punjab BJP and was earlier the party's state general secretary, got 20,323 votes translating into a vote share of 22.54 per cent. Expectations had been high for the saffron party after its candidate Ravneet Singh Bittu had led from the Ludhiana West assembly segment, which is part of the Ludhiana Lok Sabha seat, in last year's general elections, though he lost to Congress candidate Amrinder Singh Raja Warring. Meanwhile, the downslide of the Shiromani Akali Dal continued as the bypoll result marked another low. The partys candidate Parupkar Singh Ghumman was at the forth sport with 8203 votes, which is 9.1 per cent of the vote share, despite campaigning by party president Sukhbir Singh Badal and senior leaders including Bikram Singh Majithia. In the 2022 assembly polls, senior party leader Maheshinder Singh Grewal got 10,072 votes.
AAP's Sanjeev Arora retains Ludhiana (West) assembly seat in Punjab; set to become cabinet minister
CHANDIGARH: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) retained the Ludhiana (West) assembly seat. In the by-polls, results for which were declared on Monday, party candidate Sanjeev Arora won by a margin of 10,637 votes. He polled 35, 179 votes as against the 24, 542 votes polled by his nearest Congress rival Bharat Bhushan Ashu. The BJP candidate Jivan Gupta came third with 20,323 votes. The Shiromani Akali Dal candidate Parupkar Singh Ghuman came a poor fourth. With this victory, Arora is all set to become a cabinet minister. The cabinet expansion is expected to happen soon. The Rajya Sabha seat vacated by him might go to a top AAP leader. It has to be seen whether AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal or his former Deputy Manish Sisodia, both of whom have largely been out of the spotlight since losing the Delhi assembly elections earlier this year, will be nominated for the Rajya Sabha. As opposition leaders had been claiming that the bypoll was engineered to facilitate either Kejriwal or Sisodia's entry into the upper house of parliament, a presumption the AAP has denied so far. Nonetheless, Aroras resignation from the Rajya Sabha will trigger a vacancy, giving the AAP window to manoeuvre. Meanwhile, speculations are rife now that at least one sitting cabinet minister might be asked to step down and there will be a reshuffle in the state cabinet. The byelection victory has come as a morale booster for the AAP which lost the Delhi Assembly elections in February earlier this year. The AAP threw its entire weight behind the campaign with the partys national leadership led by AAP National Convener Arvind Kejriwal, Punjab in-charge Manish Sisodia and former Delhi health minister Satyendra Jain campaigning for the party candidate. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and his wife, Dr Gurpreet Kaur Mann also campaigned extensively for Sanjeev Arora. Being a first time contestant, Arora didn't carry any political baggage like Congress candidate Bharat Bhushan Ashu. Arora had consistently raised local issues in Parliament, including pending National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) projects and the need for more seats in private medical colleges. He also funded various local development projects through his MPLADS funds, focused on schools, colleges, and civic infrastructure. His candidature was declared in February which gave him a good head start. The win consolidates AAPs hold on the Ludhiana West seat, which became vacant following the death of party MLA Gurpreet Bassi Gogi in January this year. A voter turnout of 51.33 per cent was recorded in the bypoll, a sharp drop from the 64 per cent voting registered in the 2022 assembly elections. Vote share of AAP improves The vote share of AAP has improved this time around. Arora polled 35, 179 votes which translates to 39.02 per cent of the vote share, while in 2022 assembly polls, AAP's vote share was 34.46 percent. The vote share of the Congress and the BJP has dropped. The Congress party's vote share was 27.22 percent as against the 28.06 per cent vote share of last elections. BJP candidate Gupta's vote share is 22.54 percent as against 23.95 percent of last elections.
Chance For Arvind Kejriwal As AAP Seat In Rajya Sabha Falls Vacant
Aam Aadmi Party's ability to retain one seat in the Gujarat by-election and Ludhiana has not only underscored its growing grassroots grip but also holds out hope for party chief Arvind Kejriwal's entry into Rajya Sabha.
Not Going To Rajya Sabha: Arvind Kejriwal After MP Sanjeev Arora's Bypoll Win
Former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said he would not go to the Rajya Sabha, after the party's sitting Upper House member Sanjeev Arora won the Ludhiana West bypolls in Punjab.
Assembly bypolls: AAP retains 2 seats in Punjab, Gujarat; Kejriwal takes fresh jibe at Congress, BJP
Arvind Kejriwal asserted that Gujarat is weary of the BJP, highlighting AAP's Visavadar win and BJP's Kadi victory in Gujarat bypolls. He also celebrated AAP's anticipated win in Punjab's Ludhiana West, noting increased support compared to 2022.
Not going to Rajya Sabha: Kejriwal after MP Sanjeev Arora wins Ludhiana West assembly bypoll
Arvind Kejriwal, the former Delhi chief minister, has stated that he will not be taking Sanjeev Arora's Rajya Sabha seat, which will become vacant after Arora's victory in the Ludhiana West bypolls. Kejriwal clarified that the party's political affairs committee will decide on the nomination for the Upper House. Opposition parties speculated that Kejriwal himself would fill the position.
People Rejected Both BJP And Congress In Bypolls: Kejriwal
New Delhi, Jun 23: AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said people are fed up with the BJP in Gujarat and stressed that people had rejected both Congress and BJP in the bypolls. AAP leader Gopal Italia won the Visavadar seat, while BJPs Rajendra Chavda bagged the Kadi seat on Monday, as counting for bypolls to the two constituencies in Gujarat concluded, officials said. AAP candidate Sanjeev Arora appears to be heading for a victory from the Ludhiana West [] The post People Rejected Both BJP And Congress In Bypolls: Kejriwal appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Bypoll results: UDF wins in Kerala, TMC ahead in Bengal, AAP and BJP secure one seat each in Gujarat
By-elections to assembly seats in Gujarat, Punjab, West Bengal, and Kerala on Monday delivered mixed results, with AAP gaining ground, TMC set to retain its seat in Bengal, and the Congress-led UDF scoring a key victory in Kerala. Kerala: UDF snatches Nilambur seat In a severe blow to the Pinarayi Vijayan-led LDF government in Kerala, the opposition UDF on Monday surged ahead in the Nilambur Assembly by-election and was on the verge of victory as counting neared completion. UDF candidate Aryadan Shoukath, son of Congress veteran Aryadan Muhammed, secured a lead of 11,077 votes over CPI(M)s M Swaraj. The bypoll was widely seen as a mid-term referendum on the LDF government. Independent candidate P V Anvar, the former legislator whose resignation triggered the bypoll, surprised many with his strong performance, securing over 18,000 votes. The BJP candidate, Mohan George, lagged far behind. Celebrations erupted in Nilambur and across the UDF camp, with Congress leaders hailing the result as a sign of growing public support ahead of the 2026 assembly elections. UDF candidate Aryadan Shoukath wins Nilambur bypoll by a margin of over 11000 votes West Bengal: TMC comfortably ahead in Kaliganj In West Bengals Kaliganj assembly seat, TMC candidate Alifa Ahamed, daughter of the late MLA Nasiruddin Ahamed, was leading by over 29,749 votes after 13 rounds of counting. TMC candidate Alifa Ahamed secured 59,329 votes, while her nearest rival, BJP nominee Ashis Ghosh 29,580. Congress candidate Kabil Uddin Shaikh, backed by the CPI(M), slipped to the third position with 19,516 votes, election officials said. The bypoll was held following the death of Nasiruddin Ahamed in February. Voting saw a turnout of 69.85 per cent and remained largely peaceful. Voting for the by-election was held on Thursday, with a voter turnout of 69.85 per cent recorded till 5 pm. Barring a few isolated incidents, voting remained largely peaceful. Punjab: AAP edges ahead in Ludhiana West In Punjabs Ludhiana West, AAPs Sanjeev Arora was leading by 2,286 votes over Congress Bharat Bhushan Ashu after six of the 14 counting rounds. The BJPs Jiwan Gupta was in the third position, followed by Shiromani Akali Dals Parupkar Singh Ghuman. The by-election was necessitated by the death of AAP MLA Gurpreet Bassi Gogi earlier this year. Voter turnout for the seat stood at 51.33 per cent, a significant drop from the 64 per cent registered in the 2022 assembly elections. Gujarat: AAP wins Visavadar seat, BJP holds Kadi AAP leader Gopal Italia won the Visavadar seat, while BJP's Rajendra Chavda bagged Kadi seat on Monday, as counting for bypolls to the two constituencies in Gujarat concluded, officials said. Italia, the former Gujarat president of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), defeated his nearest rival, BJP candidate Kirit Patel, in Visavadar seat of Junagadh district by a margin of 17,554 votes. While Italia received 75,942 votes, Patel got 58,388 votes after the end of total 21 rounds of counting, as per the data shared by the Election Commission. BJP leaders earlier said they were hoping to break the 18-year jinx in Visavadar, where the party last tasted victory in 2007. Meanwhile, in the SC-reserved Kadi seat, BJP candidate Rajendra Chavda was leading by over 35,000 votes against Congress' Ramesh Chavda after 16 rounds of counting. The seat fell vacant following the death of BJP MLA Karsan Solanki in February. In Kadi seat of Mehsana district, reserved for the Scheduled Caste candidates, BJP's Rajendra Chavda emerged victorious by a margin of 39,452 votes over Congress' Ramesh Chavda after the end of all 22 rounds of counting. While Rajendra Chavda received 99,742 votes, former Congress MLA Ramesh Chavda managed to secure 60,290 votes. (With inputs from PTI)
Bypoll results: UDF scores big in Kerala, TMC ahead in Bengal, AAP leads in Gujarat and Punjab
By-elections to assembly seats in Gujarat, Punjab, West Bengal, and Kerala on Monday delivered mixed results, with AAP gaining ground, TMC set to retain its seat in Bengal, and the Congress-led UDF scoring a key victory in Kerala. UDF snatches Nilambur seat In a severe blow to the Pinarayi Vijayan-led LDF government in Kerala, the opposition UDF on Monday surged ahead in the Nilambur Assembly by-election and was on the verge of victory as counting neared completion. UDF candidate Aryadan Shoukath, son of Congress veteran Aryadan Muhammed, secured a lead of 11,077 votes over CPI(M)s M Swaraj. The bypoll was widely seen as a mid-term referendum on the LDF government. Independent candidate P V Anvar, the former legislator whose resignation triggered the bypoll, surprised many with his strong performance, securing over 18,000 votes. The BJP candidate, Mohan George, lagged far behind. Celebrations erupted in Nilambur and across the UDF camp, with Congress leaders hailing the result as a sign of growing public support ahead of the 2026 assembly elections. TMC comfortably ahead in Kaliganj In West Bengals Kaliganj assembly seat, TMC candidate Alifa Ahamed, daughter of the late MLA Nasiruddin Ahamed, was leading by over 19,000 votes after seven rounds of counting. She had secured 32,308 votes against Congress candidate Kabil Uddin Shaikh, who had the backing of the CPI(M) and polled 13,144 votes. BJPs Ashis Ghosh was in third place with 11,987 votes. The bypoll was held following the death of Nasiruddin Ahamed in February. Voting saw a turnout of 69.85 per cent and remained largely peaceful. AAP edges ahead in Ludhiana West In Punjabs Ludhiana West, AAPs Sanjeev Arora was leading by 2,286 votes over Congress Bharat Bhushan Ashu after six of the 14 counting rounds. The BJPs Jiwan Gupta was in the third position, followed by Shiromani Akali Dals Parupkar Singh Ghuman. The by-election was necessitated by the death of AAP MLA Gurpreet Bassi Gogi earlier this year. Voter turnout for the seat stood at 51.33 per cent, a significant drop from the 64 per cent registered in the 2022 assembly elections. AAP widens lead in Visavadar, BJP holds Kadi AAP's Gopal Italia, the party's former state president, was leading by a substantial margin in the Visavadar assembly seat as counting neared completion. After 18 of the 21 counting rounds, Italia had secured 65,295 votes, ahead of BJP's Kirit Patel, who polled 51,222 votes. Congress' Nitin Ranpariya was trailing in the contest. The Visavadar seat, vacated in December 2023 after AAP legislator Bhupendra Bhayani joined the BJP, has been out of the BJPs grasp since 2007. The party was hoping to break its 18-year losing streak. Meanwhile, in the SC-reserved Kadi seat, BJP candidate Rajendra Chavda was leading by over 35,000 votes against Congress' Ramesh Chavda after 16 rounds of counting. The seat fell vacant following the death of BJP MLA Karsan Solanki in February. (With inputs from PTI)
Ludhiana Election Result: AAP's Sanjeev Arora vs Congress' Bharat Bhushan Ashu. Who is winning
Ludhiana Election Result: Aam Aadmi Party's Sanjeev Arora is leading in the Ludhiana West by-election, surpassing Congress rival Bharat Bhushan Ashu by 2,286 votes after six rounds. The by-poll, triggered by the death of AAP MLA Gurpreet Bassi Gogi, is a crucial test of voter sentiment midway through AAP's term in Punjab. The results will indicate whether anti-incumbency is surfacing in the state.
Counting Underway for Bypolls in Gujarat, Punjab, Kerala, and Bengal
Five Assembly seats up for grabs across four states; key contests in Visavadar, Kaliganj, Nilambur, and Ludhiana West
Assembly Bypoll Result 2025 Live Updates: Counting Underway In 4 States On 5 Seats
The Assembly bypolls were held for two seats in Gujarat's Visavadar and Kadi, and one each in Kerala's Nilambur, Punjab's Ludhiana West, and West Bengal's Kaliganj.
ECI By-Elections Results Live: In by-elections across multiple states, early results show mixed outcomes. In Kerala's Nilambur, the UDF candidate leads, while in Punjab's Ludhiana West, AAP is ahead. West Bengal's Kaliganj sees TMC in the lead. Gujarat's Visavadar and Kadi constituencies indicate a BJP advantage as vote counting continues.
ECI By-Elections Results 2025 Live Updates: Bypoll, Gujarat, Punjab, West Bengal, Visavadar, Kadi, Ludhiana West, Bengal, and Kerala.
Assembly bypoll results LIVE updates: Counting starts at 8 a.m. in five Assembly constituencies
Polling took place at the Assembly constituencies of Kadi (SC) and Visavadar in Gujarat, Nilambur in Kerala, Ludhiana West in Punjab and Kaliganj in West Bengal.
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5 Assembly bypolls in 4 states largely peaceful; Nilambur in Kerala records 73 pc turnout
LUDHIANA/AHMEDABAD: Bypolls were held in five Assembly segments across Punjab, West Bengal, Gujarat and Kerala on Thursday, with the Nilambur seat in Kerala registering a voter turnout of 73.26 per cent, and Ludiana West in Punjab recording a polling percentage of 51.33 per cent. The polling that commenced at 7 am and concluded at 6 pm was largely peaceful, with the exception of a few isolated incidents, officials said. While the deaths of the incumbent MLAs necessitated the bypolls in one seat each in Gujarat, West Bengal and Punjab, the resignation of two legislators led to the polling in Kerala and another seat in Gujarat. The counting of votes for all the seats will be taken up on June 23. Nilambur in Kerala saw a steady turnout through the day, recording a turnout of 73.26 per cent, according to the latest figures released by the Election Commission, which said the numbers might be updated later. In the 2021 assembly polls, the turnout in Nilambur was 75.20 per cent. People came out in good numbers at the 263 polling booths across the constituency, which has over 2.32 lakh voters. Among the 10 contestants, the key contenders are ruling LDF's pick M Swaraj, Aryadan Shoukath of the Congress-led UDF, TMC state convenor and Independent nominee P V Anvar and Mohan George of the BJP-led NDA. Anvar, whose resignation as the MLA from Nilambur necessitated the bypoll, claimed that neither of the three fronts -- UDF, LDF and NDA -- discussed local issues like wild-animal attacks during their campaigns. Presently the state convener of the TMC, Anvar resigned as the MLA after severing ties with the CPI(M)-led LDF over certain allegations levelled by him against Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and his close aides. The final voter list includes 1,13,613 men, 1,18,760 women, and 8 transgender persons, with 7,787 first-time voters, 373 overseas voters, and 324 service voters. In Gujarat, the Visavadar seat in Junagadh district recorded a poll percentage of 56.89, and Kadi in Mehsana district saw a voter turnout of 57.90 per cent, officials said. The state government declared a public holiday on Thursday in both the constituencies. The BJP, Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) fielded their candidates in the two seats. The Visavadar seat was lying vacant since December 2023 after then AAP legislator Bhupendra Bhayani resigned and joined the BJP. The Kadi seat, reserved for Scheduled Caste (SC) candidates, fell vacant on February 4 following the death of BJP MLA Karsan Solanki. Till 5 pm, 41 complaints were received from citizens through the C-Vigil app, out of which 34 were resolved within 100 minutes, officials said. In Visavadar, BJP candidate Kirit Patel and Congress nominee Nitin Ranpariya cast their votes in the early hours. The AAP has fielded its former Gujarat president, Gopal Italia, from Visavadar. He is not registered as a voter in the constituency. Despite its near-total dominance in the state, the BJP has not won the Visavadar seat since 2007. Party leaders are hopeful of overcoming the 18-year jinx this time. In the 2022 Assembly polls, Bhayani defeated BJP's Harshad Ribadiya, a Congress turncoat and former MLA, by 7,063 votes. The BJP has fielded Rajendra Chavda from Kadi, while the Congress has given ticket to former MLA Ramesh Chavda. Chavda won the seat in 2012, but lost it to the BJP's Karsanbhai Solanki in 2017. Like Visavadar, Kadi will also witness a three-way fight, with the AAP fielding Jagdish Chavda. In the 182-member Gujarat Assembly, the BJP has 161 legislators, the Congress 12 and the AAP four. While one seat is with the Samajwadi Party, two are with independents. The bypoll to the Ludhiana West Assembly seat in Punjab recorded a turnout of 51.33 per cent, a sharp drop from the 64 per cent polling registered in the 2022 Assembly elections, officials said. The polling, which remained peaceful, sealed the fate of 14 candidates in the fray for the urban constituency, which fell vacant after the death of AAP MLA Gurpreet Bassi Gogi in January. The bypoll's outcome will throw light on the popularity of the AAP regime's policies and programmes among the urban voters of the constituency. Stakes are also high for the Congress, the main opposition party that won the seat six times in the past. Prestige is at stake for the BJP and the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) as well. AAP candidate Sanjeev Arora exercised his franchise along with his family members in the morning, and later paid obeisance at a gurdwara, a temple and the Dargah Pir in Phillaur. Congress candidate Bharat Bhushan Ashu, BJP nominee Jiwan Gupta and SAD's Parupkar Singh Ghuman also cast their votes. A total of 1,75,469 voters were eligible to exercise their franchise, including 85,371 women and 10 belonging to the third gender. The voting process was monitored real-time from the integrated command and control centre at the district administrative complex. A total of 235 CCTV cameras were installed at the polling stations, officials said. At Kaliganj in West Bengal's Nadia district, a voter turnout of 69.85 per cent was recorded till 5 pm. Polling has been peaceful. There was no report of any incident from anywhere in and around the constituency. Till 5 pm, the polling was 69.85 per cent, an election official told PTI. Sources said the polling percentage may go up as there were queues outside the polling booths. The bypoll was necessitated by the death of Trinamool Congress MLA Nasiruddin Ahamed in February. The ruling party has fielded his daughter, Alifa Ahamed, for the bypoll. The BJP has nominated Ashis Ghosh for the contest, while Congress candidate Kabil Uddin Shaikh is in the fray with the support of the CPI(M). Fourteen companies of central forces were deployed across the constituency to ensure free-and-fair polling. Minor tension was reported from a few booths. At Chandghar Adarsha Vidyapith's booth No. 56, the Congress alleged that its polling agent was forcibly removed by Trinamool workers, an allegation denied by the ruling party. BJP nominee Ghosh alleged that officials deliberately applied indelible ink on his middle finger instead of the index finger under the insistence of Trinamool agents. First, they missed putting the ink on my finger when I went to vote. Then, after I noticed it and returned, they deliberately marked my middle finger. This is a pre-planned political conspiracy by the TMC, Ghosh alleged. Poll officials confirmed that no rules were violated but said they have sought a report from the district magistrate regarding the incident. The Election Commission said webcasting was done at all but one polling station of the five seats. A total of 1,354 polling stations were set up for the bypolls and webcasting was held at 1,353 of them, the poll authority said. This was also the first time that the EC provided a mobile-phone deposit facility to the voters. The deposit centres were set up outside the polling stations. So far, no such facility was available and some voters hid phones in their clothes and carried those inside the polling stations, which is against rules.
Peaceful bypolls in five assembly seats
Brisk polling occurred across four states for five assembly by-elections. Webcasting was implemented at most polling stations. West Bengal's Kaliganj saw high voter turnout and peaceful conditions. Gujarat's Visavadar and Kadi witnessed a triangular contest. Kerala's Nilambur and Punjab's Ludhiana West also held bypolls. The elections generally proceeded smoothly, marking a significant democratic exercise.
Firsts for ECI: Real-Time VTR, 100% Webcasting in Bypolls
By-polls were held at the ACs of Kadi and Visavadar in Gujarat, Nilambur in Kerala, Ludhiana West in Punjab and Kaliganj in West Bengal on Thursday
Ludhiana (West) assembly bypoll sees 51.33% voter turnout in four-cornered contest
CHANDIGARH: The voter turnout in the Ludhiana (West) assembly bypoll as per data uploaded till 7 pm was approximately 51.33%, said Punjab chief electoral officer Sibin C. As part of a new initiative, the polling data has been uploaded by the presiding officer at the polling station on the ECINET app. The voting started at all polling booths at 7 am on Thursday morning. Till 9 am, the polling percentage was just 8.50% as a few people gathered at the booths early in the morning to avoid the hot weather later in the day. Till 11 am, it was 21.51% and then went up to 33.42% till 1 pm, 41.04% till 3 pm and 49.07% till 5 pm. At many polling booths, candidates and their supporters arranged lunch or snacks, due to which many voters reportedly went around lunch time to cast their vote. A majority of the electorate belongs to the middle class and they did not seem to be in a hurry to reach the polling stations. The Election Commission of India (ECI) provided vehicle assistance to senior citizens and persons with disabilities. The initiative received widespread appreciation. The Congress has fielded 51-year-old Bharat Bhusan Ashu who served as MLA twice from this seat in 2012 and 2017. He was defeated by Gurpreet Bassi alias Gogi by a margin of 7,512 votes in the 2022 Punjab assembly polls. Ashu was food and civil supplies minister in the previous Congress government. Rajya Sabha MP Sanjeev Arora is the nominee of the ruling AAP. He is a Ludhiana-based industrialist also known for his social work. The 61-year-old runs the Krishna Pran Breast Cancer Charitable Trust. Arora has been a member of the Rajya Sabha since 2022. The SAD named Parupkar Singh Ghuman as its candidate for the bypoll. He is a lawyer and the former president of the Ludhiana bar. The BJP fielded Jivan Gupta who is a member of the core committee of the Punjab unit of the party. He was earlier the party's state general secretary. Ludhiana (West) bypoll a litmus test for AAP and CM Mann, prestige at stake for Congress, BJP A total of 194 polling stations were set up with live webcasting facility. Also, designated counters were put up at the entrance of polling stations for voters to securely deposit their mobile devices. These counters were managed by trained volunteers using jute or cloth bag mobile holders. Due to the recent decision of the ECI to reduce the number of electors in a polling station to 1200, two auxiliary polling stations were set up to facilitate voting. One all-women personnel polling station, one all-PWD personnel polling station and ten model polling stations were also set up. As per revised instructions of the ECI, candidates were allowed to set up their booths at a distance of 100m from the entrance of the polling stations, which was an added convenience for voters, especially those not carrying their voter information slips. In a first-of-its-kind initiative, all polling stations in Ludhiana West have made arrangements for safe mobile phone deposit aims to enhance the voter experience while at the same time upholding the secrecy of voting, the chief electoral officer said in a post on X. In the morning, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann appealed to voters to cast their votes in the bypoll. My appeal to the voters of Ludhiana West is that you must exercise your right to vote. You must fulfill your duty for the development and progress of your area. Do not consider today a holiday, definitely go and cast your vote, Mann said in a post on X in Punjabi. The Ludhiana West assembly seat fell vacant following the death of AAP MLA Gurpreet Bassi in January. Fourteen candidates are in the fray and 1,75,469 voters were eligible to exercise their franchise including 85,371 women and 10 from the third gender. The counting of votes will be held on June 23.
5 Assembly bypolls: High voter turnout in Punjab, West Bengal, Gujarat, and Kerala - check details
Bypolls across five Assembly segments in Punjab, West Bengal, Gujarat, and Kerala saw varied voter turnouts, with West Bengal's Kaliganj leading at nearly 70%. Largely peaceful, the polls were necessitated by MLA deaths and resignations. Key contests included those in Nilambur (Kerala), Visavadar and Kadi (Gujarat), and Ludhiana West (Punjab). The Election Commission implemented webcasting and mobile-phone deposit facilities.
Voting underway in assembly bypolls in four states, moderate turnout recorded till noon
Bypolls took place across Punjab, West Bengal, Gujarat, and Kerala. Voting started at 7 am. Moderate turnout was seen in the initial hours. Tension arose in West Bengal over alleged polling agent removal. Candidates expressed confidence in Kerala. Gujarat's Visavadar and Kadi also saw voting. Punjab's Ludhiana West witnessed polling with appeals from key figures.
Ravjot Singh Denies AI-Edited Obscene Photos, Slams SAD for Caste-Based Conspiracy
Just ahead of Ludhiana bypoll, Majithia shares photos allegedly showing AAP minister in compromising position; minister vows legal action
Ludhiana (West) bypoll a litmus test for AAP and CM Mann, prestige at stake for Congress, BJP
CHANDIGARH: The Ludhiana (West) by-election on Thursday will be a litmus test for the ruling Aam Aadmi Party's national leadership and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann as they have aggressively campaigned to retain the seat, while the Congress looks to regain its foothold over the urban constituency which it held six times in the past. While the main contest is likely to be between the AAP and Congress, the bypoll outcome will also shed light on how the BJP performs among urban voters in the state. It is also going to be a test for Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal as his party looks to resurrect itself after a series of crushing electoral losses. In the parliamentary elections last year, Ravneet Singh Bittu of the BJP had led from the Ludhiana West assembly segment, which is part of the Ludhiana Lok Sabha seat. However, he lost to Congress canddiate Amrinder Singh Raja Warring. The BJP's senior leadership including Union Ministers Hardeep Singh Puri, Ravneet Singh Bittu, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, and Tarun Chugh, canvassed for Jivan Gupta, besides state unit leaders. Gupta is a member of the core committee of the Punjab BJP. He was earlier the party's state general secretary. The stakes are also high for the Congress. Punjab Congress leaders, including party's general secretary in-charge Punjab and former Chhattisgarh chief minister Bhupesh Baghel, former Chief Minister and Member of Parliament Charanjit Singh Channi, Punjab Congress president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring, Amritsar Member of Parliament Gurjit Singh Aujla, leader of opposition Partap Singh Bajwa, MLAs Rana Gurjit Singh, and Pargat Singh campaigned for Bharat Bhusan Ashu. Punjab Congress working president Ashu served as MLA twice from this seat in 2012 and 2017. The 51-year-old was defeated by Gurpreet Bassi alias Gogi by a margin of 7,512 votes in the 2022 Punjab assembly polls. Ashu was food and civil supplies minister in the previous Congress government. The AAP leadership urged the Ludhiana (West) electorate to vote for party candidate Sanjeev Arora who is presently a Rajya Sabha MP, with party supremo Arvind Kejriwal announcing that the AAP candidate will be made the state cabinet minister if he is elected. The 61-year-old Arora is a Ludhiana-based industrialist and is also known for his social work. He runs the Krishna Pran Breast Cancer Charitable Trust. Arora has been a member of the Rajya Sabha since 2022. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann described the election as a battle between humility and arrogance, stating that Arora represents simplicity while the Congress nominee is known for arrogance. Kejriwal lauded Arora for his philanthropic efforts and assured the public that with Arora's election, Ludhiana West would witness unparalleled development. The outcome of this byelection will throw light on the popularity of the AAP regime's policies and programmes among urban voters in the constituency. In November last year, the AAP had won three out of four assembly bypolls. The SAD has named Parupkar Singh Ghuman as its candidate for the bypoll. Ghuman is a lawyer and former president of the Ludhiana bar. There are a total of 14 candidates in the fray. Polling will be held from 7 am till 6 pm on June 19 and the counting will be held on June 23. A total of 1,75,469 voters are eligible to exercise their franchise, 85,371 of them women and 10 of third gender. There will be a total of 194 polling stations for the bypoll and 100 percent live webcasting of polling stations. The Ludhiana West assembly seat fell vacant following the death of AAP MLA Gurpreet Bassi Gogi in January.
Ludhiana bypoll: FIR lodged against online news channels for publishing opinion polls
CHANDIGARH, June 18: A case has been registered against some online news channels for allegedly publishing opinion polls in connection with the Ludhiana West bypoll scheduled to be held on Thursday. The publication of the poll was allegedly carried out in violation of the guidelines issued by the Election Commission, which prohibits the publication or broadcasting of opinion polls in electronic media during the restricted period (48 hours prior to close of the poll). The complaint was formally lodged [] The post Ludhiana bypoll: FIR lodged against online news channels for publishing opinion polls appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
CHANDIGARH: In a first-of-its-kind initiative, voters in the Ludhiana (West) Assembly bye-elections , scheduled for June 19, will be able to securely deposit their mobile phones in designated holders before entering the polling station, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Punjab, Sibin C, announced. The new facility, being piloted across all 194 polling stations in the constituency, is aimed at improving voter convenience while ensuring the secrecy of voting, as mandated under Rule 49M of the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961. Implementing the mobile phone deposit facility during the Ludhiana (West) bye-elections is part of our broader effort to improve the convenience of voters, while maintaining the secrecy of voting, said Sibin C, CEO, Punjab. As per Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines issued on May 23, voters arriving at polling stations with mobile phones will now be able to deposit them at designated counters just outside the polling station entrance. These counters will be managed by trained volunteers using jute or cloth bag holders to store phones safely. Proper arrangements are also being made to ensure that the deposited mobile phones are returned safely after voting, added the CEO. The facility is expected to particularly benefit women, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities, who often face challenges without access to their phones. However, as per election regulations, mobile phones will not be allowed inside polling stations, and must remain switched off within 100 metres of the station to maintain the decorum and secrecy of the electoral process. The ECIs initiative will be observed closely as a potential model for future elections across India.
CHANDIGARH: Amritpal Singh Mehron, the main accused in the murder of Punjab-based social media influencer Kanchan Kumari, also known as Kamal Kaur Bhabi, is now being glorified as a hero in parts of Punjab. Flex-boards depicting Mehron with phrases such as Kaum Da Heera (Jewel of the Community) and Izattan De Rakhe (Protector of Honour) have appeared in Ludhiana, sparking outrage and concern. What has caused further alarm is that Malkiat Singh, the Head Granthi of the Golden Temple, has come out in open support of Mehron. Speaking on the matter, Malkiat Singh alleged that the victim had adopted a Sikh name with the intention of tarnishing the image of the Sikh community. He claimed that Kamal Kaurs name misled people into believing she belonged to a Sikh family. Sikh history is filled with examples where those engaging in indecent activities were punished, he said. According to Sikh teachings, we are discouraged from listening to vulgar songs. People spreading obscenity and defaming the community deserve such treatment. Nothing wrong has happened its not the first time such a thing has occurred. Amritpal Singh Mehron wanted for murder, threats to women influencers; Punjab Police issues lookout notice The flex-boards, however, violate standard legal requirements as they lack printer details or mention of any sponsoring individual or organisation. Despite their visibility, the Ludhiana district administration currently focused on the Ludhiana West Assembly by-election has yet to respond to the matter, according to sources. Mehron reportedly fled to the UAE just hours after the alleged murder, which has gripped the state in controversy. Malkiat Singhs position as Head Granthi of the Golden Temple makes him one of the highest religious functionaries in Sikhism, second only to the Jathedar. While the Jathedar addresses broader issues concerning the Sikh community, the Head Granthi is responsible for maintaining religious discipline and overseeing daily ceremonies. Amritpal Singh linked to murder of Sikh activist as Punjab police arrest three suspects In a significant development, the Punjab Police have issued a lookout circular for Ranjit Singh of Sohal village in Tarn Taran district, another suspect in the case. A lookout notice had earlier been issued for Amritpal Singh Mehron, described as the mastermind of the crime. Two of his alleged accomplices, Jaspreet Singh and Nimaratjeet Singh, are already in police custody. Senior Superintendent of Police, Bathinda, Amneet Kondal clarified that, according to the post-mortem report, the influencer was not raped. The post-mortem does not mention sexual assault. The body was in a highly decomposed state, making it difficult to determine any such evidence. The cause of death has been confirmed as strangulation, and the viscera report is awaited, she said. Meanwhile, Bollywood singer Mika Singh released a video message condemning the murder. Urging Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to take swift and strict action, Mika Singh said such acts of violence are deeply disturbing and go against Sikh values. True Sikhs protect women they do not harm them, he said.
CHANDIGARH: Amritpal Singh Mehron, the main accused in the murder of Punjab-based social media influencer Kanchan Kumari, also known as Kamal Kaur Bhabi, is now being glorified as a hero in parts of Punjab. Flex-boards depicting Mehron with phrases such as Kaum Da Heera (Jewel of the Community) and Izattan De Rakhe (Protector of Honour) have appeared in Ludhiana, sparking outrage and concern. What has caused further alarm is that Malkiat Singh, the Head Granthi of the Golden Temple, has come out in open support of Mehron. Speaking on the matter, Malkiat Singh alleged that the victim had adopted a Sikh name with the intention of tarnishing the image of the Sikh community. He claimed that Kamal Kaurs name misled people into believing she belonged to a Sikh family. Sikh history is filled with examples where those engaging in indecent activities were punished, he said. According to Sikh teachings, we are discouraged from listening to vulgar songs. People spreading obscenity and defaming the community deserve such treatment. Nothing wrong has happened its not the first time such a thing has occurred. Amritpal Singh Mehron wanted for murder, threats to women influencers; Punjab Police issues lookout notice The flex-boards, however, violate standard legal requirements as they lack printer details or mention of any sponsoring individual or organisation. Despite their visibility, the Ludhiana district administration currently focused on the Ludhiana West Assembly by-election has yet to respond to the matter, according to sources. Mehron reportedly fled to the UAE just hours after the alleged murder, which has gripped the state in controversy. Malkiat Singhs position as Head Granthi of the Golden Temple makes him one of the highest religious functionaries in Sikhism, second only to the Jathedar. While the Jathedar addresses broader issues concerning the Sikh community, the Head Granthi is responsible for maintaining religious discipline and overseeing daily ceremonies. Amritpal Singh linked to murder of Sikh activist as Punjab police arrest three suspects In a significant development, the Punjab Police have issued a lookout circular for Ranjit Singh of Sohal village in Tarn Taran district, another suspect in the case. A lookout notice had earlier been issued for Amritpal Singh Mehron, described as the mastermind of the crime. Two of his alleged accomplices, Jaspreet Singh and Nimaratjeet Singh, are already in police custody. Senior Superintendent of Police, Bathinda, Amneet Kondal clarified that, according to the post-mortem report, the influencer was not raped. The post-mortem does not mention sexual assault. The body was in a highly decomposed state, making it difficult to determine any such evidence. The cause of death has been confirmed as strangulation, and the viscera report is awaited, she said. Meanwhile, Bollywood singer Mika Singh released a video message condemning the murder. Urging Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to take swift and strict action, Mika Singh said such acts of violence are deeply disturbing and go against Sikh values. True Sikhs protect women they do not harm them, he said.
Bikramjit Singh from Ludhiana built a Rs 100 crore organic farming business, empowering 600 farmers and promoting sustainable agriculture through his brand 'Healthy Earth'.
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta calls Punjab CM a mask, says AAPs Delhi rejects are running show
CHANDIGARH: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta today labelled Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann as a mask (mukhota) and asserted that his administration is effectively controlled by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders who have been dismissed by the electorate in Delhi. She was campaigning for BJP candidate Jiwan Gupta in the Ludhiana (West) assembly by-elections, for which polling will take place on June 19. During her address, Gupta took a dig at AAP national convener and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for failing to fulfil his promises to both Delhi and Punjab, as she questioned, What about your promises? (Kya hua tera vaada?). She also challenged AAPs commitments to enhance health infrastructure and education, pointing out the ongoing drug problem and the consequences of spurious liquor consumption in Punjab. Gupta alleged that while Mann may be the face of the government, it is the rejected leaders from Delhi who are truly in control. She accused Kejriwal of exhibiting false Punjabiyat and highlighted the lack of representation for the Sikh community in his Delhi cabinet during his tenure. She pointed out that the AAP has fielded Rajya Sabha member Sanjeev Arora for the Ludhiana West bypoll, suggesting that Kejriwal is attempting to secure a pathway to the Rajya Sabha through this election. She asserted that the AAPs leadership in Punjab is ineffective and disconnected from ground realities and the local population. Gupta further criticised the AAP for failing to deliver on its promises made during the 2022 state assembly elections, such as providing financial assistance to women and ensuring minimum support prices for farmers. She accused the party of perpetuating a VIP culture and misusing Punjabs resources for personal gain. Referencing the rampant drug issue in the state, Gupta claimed that the crisis has escalated under the leadership of AAP. Punjab has been converted into a Chitta Express, she said. Gupta claimed that the current BJP government has made strides in delivering justice to the victims of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, including providing job appointment letters to their families. She expressed confidence that voters in Ludhiana West would make a wise choice and support the BJP candidate. Gupta asserted that AAPs governance has led Punjab into significant debt, and she urged voters to reject the party in the upcoming by-election. She claimed that Ludhiana West will serve as a precursor to the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections, predicting a victory for the BJP candidate.
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.
