CHANDIGARH: Punjab has recorded a staggering rise of more than one lakh dog bite cases in the last five years, with daily averages now touching 882 incidents. The state, which has around 6.5 lakh dogs, including over three lakh stray dogs, has witnessed a sharp increase in cases, with officials warning of the public health risks. In the first seven months of this year alone, a total of 1.88 lakh dog bite cases have been reported, while last years total stood at 2.13 lakh. The worst affected districts are Jalandhar, Ludhiana and Patiala. As per the official data accessed by this newspaper from the state health department, between January and July this year, Amritsar district recorded the highest number of cases at 29,504, followed by Ludhiana (21,777), Patiala (14,120), Jalandhar (12,349), Hoshiarpur (10,920) and SAS Nagar (9,860). There has been a steady jump in incidents over the past five years, 1.10 lakh cases in 2020, 1.26 lakh in 2021, 1.65 lakh in 2022, 2.02 lakh in 2023, and 2.13 lakh in 2024, reflecting a rise of more than one lakh cases during the period. This year, three deaths have been reported. Last month, a mother and daughter allegedly died of rabies in Pathankot, and on July 17, a 32-year-old man succumbed in Patiala after being bitten by a stray dog. An analysis of data from 2020 to 2024 shows Jalandhar district has recorded the highest total of 1.12 lakh cases over the four years, followed by Ludhiana (99,678), Patiala (63,782), Hoshiarpur (56,113), SAS Nagar (55,286) and Amritsar (44,249). Stray dogs in Delhi: SC slams local authorities for inaction, reserves order According to the 2019 animal census conducted by the state animal husbandry department, there were 2.90 lakh stray dogs and 3.32 lakh pet dogs in Punjab. The latest animal census has been completed this year but is yet to be notified. There has been an increase of 5 per cent in the dog population in the state after the last census, said an official. Punjab Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh said vaccination for dog bites is available at all community health centres (CHCs) and treatment has now been extended to all Aam Aadmi Clinics across the state. The people should immediately rush to the nearest government health centres for treatment, which is free, and should not ignore it at all, he added. The health department is yet to issue standard operating procedures (SOPs) for government doctors, whose diagnosis will determine compensation for dog bite cases. Although SOPs have been formulated, they have not been circulated. A five-member committee was constituted following an order from the Punjab and Haryana High Court last year, which announced compensation of Rs 10,000 for each tooth mark and Rs 20,000 for every 0.2 cm of wound where the flesh is torn off, said sources. A veterinary expert said that in 50 per cent of dog bite cases, the culprit is a pet dog biting its owner or someone else, not a stray. However, the general perception remains that stray dogs are primarily responsible. Sources added that the animal birth control (ABC) programme to sterilise dogs has been outsourced to private agencies by most municipalities under the local bodies department, but it has not achieved the desired results, particularly in major cities. Sterilisation is the only scientific method to control the stray dog population and thus, in turn, can reduce dog bite incidents, said a senior officer on condition of anonymity. It was also pointed out that there are few dog shelters in large municipalities across the state for post-animal care under the birth control set-up, and no dedicated dog pounds exist.
Here's why Punjab govt struggles to raise revenue to fund its populist schemes
CHANDIGARH: After scrapping the controversial land pooling scheme, the cash-strapped AAP-led Punjab government seems to have landed itself in trouble. It is presently struggling to raise revenue to fund its populist schemes. In order to secure a loan to fund the schemes, the government has asked the Housing and Urban Development Department to prepare an inventory of the Rs 20,000 crore worth of property belonging to the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) for auctioning. The properties to be auctioned, after consultations with the Finance Department, includes residential, commercial and industrial sites in Mohali. This matter was discussed at a recent meeting headed by Chief Secretary KAP Sinha. However, GMADA at present owes a loan of nearly Rs 5,000 crore to financial institutions. Interestingly, out of the eight urban development authorities, only GMADA and the Greater Ludhiana Area Development Authority are financially viable in the state. The other six housing authorities, Amritsar, Bathinda, Patiala, Jalandhar, Anandpur Sahib (Urban) and Dera Baba Nanak, are allegedly unable to even meet their expenditure. Sources further said that a part of the total inventory could be used to raise a loan from financial institutions to fund populist schemes, such as providing Rs 1,100 monthly assistance to women above 18 years of age. Defending the move, sources claimed that this kind of practice is not new, as previous governments had also mortgaged assets of the state to raise loans and had even pledged future income to raise resources. During the SAD-BJP rule, the then government had raised a loan of Rs 2,000 crore by mortgaging its properties to banks. Later, the properties were transferred to the Punjab Urban Development Authority (PUDA) for auction after developing them under the optimum utilisation of vacant government land scheme. On the other hand, sources said that the decisions on proposals received from deputy commissioners of some districts for increasing the collector rates have been kept in abeyance for the time being. While the government has increased the collector rates by 550 per cent in 12 districts, the proposals sent by administrations of some of the remaining districts to the state revenue department have so far not been implemented. The Ludhiana administration had sent a proposal to increase the collector rates by 2540 per cent, which is still awaiting approval. In Bathinda, the rates have been increased by five per cent, but the approval for a further increase in some of the posh areas is awaiting clearance from the revenue department. It is learnt that the state government allegedly wanted to increase the revenue collection from stamps and registration to Rs 7,000 crore this year, compared to Rs 5,750 crore earned last year. Sources said that the government is yet to issue a notification to scrap the land pooling scheme, which was scrapped amid opposition from farmers unions. The notification is being prepared, said an official, adding that the government is likely to summon a cabinet meeting for scrapping the policy. The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) has decided to continue its protest against the land pooling policy until an official notification regarding its withdrawal is issued. The farmer leaders have asked the state government to clarify the issue by August 20, or they would be forced to intensify their struggle. Senior SKM leader Balbir Singh Rajewal said the farmers rally, to be held on August 24 in Samrala regarding the land pooling policy and other demands of farmers and labourers, would be held as announced.
SABLO slams arbitrary pre-closure of Amarnath Yatra, demands compensation
Ludhiana, August 8: The Shri Amarnath Barfani Langars Organisation (SABLO) has strongly opposed the abrupt pre-closure of the Shri Amarnathji Yatra 2025, which ended 1011 days ahead of the scheduled closing date, Shravan Purnima. In a detailed press statement, SABLO condemned this move as a violation of religious rights, customs, and the trust of lakhs [] The post SABLO slams arbitrary pre-closure of Amarnath Yatra, demands compensation appeared first on Northlines .
Street food vendor dips plastic packets in hot oil to open them; video viral
Hyderabad: A street food stall making bread pakodas in Ludhiana showed their trick of pouring oil in a frying pan, shocking everyone in the process. In a now viral video, the vendor is seen dipping the oil packets directly into the hot frying pan with residual oil, which makes the plastic melt, making it easy Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Ludhiana vendor dips plastic pouches in hot oil to fry pakode, video stirs outrage online
A vlogger is heard asking him about his unique method. But the vendor looks unconcerned and simply says that the pouches open instantly as soon as the oil is hot enough.
APS Akhnoor clinches Bronze at CBSE Cluster XVIII U-14 Basketball Tourney
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 6: Army Public School (APS) Akhnoor has brought pride to the institution by clinching the Bronze Medal in the CBSE Cluster XVIII Under-14 Boys Basketball Tournament (2025-26), held at BCM School, Ludhiana (Punjab). The prestigious tournament featured 18 top schools from across the region. APS Akhnoor kicked off the tournament with a dominant 28-20 victory over Montgomery GNP School, Jalandhar, followed by an impressive 24-08 win against Pratap World School, Pathankot in the quarterfinals, securing [] The post APS Akhnoor clinches Bronze at CBSE Cluster XVIII U-14 Basketball Tourney appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Punjab farmers intensify protest against land pooling policy, AAP leaders quit in solidarity
Punjabs land pooling policy challenged in High Court as activists flag environmental concern CHANDIGARH: Apart from facing backlash from farmers and opposition parties over its controversial land pooling policy, Punjab's ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is now grappling with growing internal dissent. The political storm has reached Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's Dhuri assembly constituency, where several party leaders have resigned, denouncing the scheme as anti-farmer. According to sources, a few local leaders have conveyed the people's concerns to the party leadership. In the latest development, AAP block president from Dhuri, Gurjeet Singh Kanjhla, resigned stating that This fight against land pooling policy is not just of the farmers, but also of the entire state. Former OSD to CM Mann, Onkar Singh Sidhu, who was removed last year, criticised the policy on social media, People of Punjab have never bowed before Delhi, and they never will. AAP's Kisan wing leader from Jalandhar, Jaswant Singh Lovely also resigned, posting on social media that I hope the party will reconsider its decisions. I request my companions to stand with our farmer brothers. It is in your hands whether you want to become a son of Punjab or a son of Delhi. He also wrote that he resigned Gian Singh Mann, the CM's cousin from Satauj village, posted on social media, Just as the anti-sacrilege law has been sent to the standing committee for review and to seek public opinion, the same way the views of the landholders and farmers should be sought. Farmers take out tractor marches demanding immediate withdrawal of land pooling scheme in Punjab Last week, Harmanjit Singh Brar, the Chairman of the District Planning Board of Moga and former district president of AAP in Moga, resigned citing strong opposition to the policy. He gave up his post but remained in the party. Brar announced his resignation through a Facebook post, stating that the decision was made in solidarity with the farmers, whose interests he believes are being compromised by the new policy. The government's land pooling scheme is against the welfare of the farming community. I cannot remain silent while farmers are pushed to the brink, he wrote, urging the state leadership to withdraw or review the controversial policy. A few days back, AAP's Jodhan block president in Ludhiana district Tapinder Singh Grewal also resigned from his post, denouncing the new scheme as anti-farmer. He also announced his decision via a post on Facebook, I, Tapinder Singh Jodhan block president of AAP appreciate all the good work done by the Punjab government. However, I strongly oppose the newly introduced land pooling policy and hereby resign from the post and my responsibilities within the party. Earlier, AAP Anandpur MP Sahib Malvinder Singh Kang criticised the scheme in a post on X and asked his party leaders to earn the trust of farmers before introducing any such policy. He had suggested the need for addressing the objections of farm unions through empathy and meaningful dialogue. But Kang later deleted the post drawing criticism from the opposition leaders who had commended him for breaking ranks with AAP to support the farmers. Kang had tweeted, The objections raised by farmer unions on the Land Pooling Policy must, in my view, be heard with empathy and addressed through meaningful dialogue. In the last three years, our government has ensured uninterrupted agri-power, pushed canal water to every field, fast-tracked mandi reforms and promoted crop diversification. On this, too, trust must be earnednot assumedbefore any policy takes root. With nineteen months left for the 2027 assembly elections, the AAP government faces mounting pressure as farmer protests intensify. Protesters have burned effigies of CM Mann and Arvind Kejriwal, while opposition parties have termed the policy anti-peasantry and impractical. The policy has also been challenged in Punjab and Haryana High Court. On the other hand, the government claims that many farmers have agreed to follow this policy and give up their lands. However, compared to the protesting farmers, the number of farmers complying is very less: only 115 land owners in total (15 from Ludhiana and 100 from Mohali) have come forward to adopt the scheme since it was launched on June 2. As per the policy the state government plans to acquire 65,533 acres of land across 21 cities and towns in the state to develop both industrial and residential zones. The move is said to be the largest acquisition of land by the Punjab government since 1966. Partially relenting to the protest, the government has decided to implement the policy only in Ludhiana, Patiala and Mohali while putting smaller towns on hold. Last week, CM Mann said his government would continue engaging with farmers, calling their consent and their consent would remain pivotal to the land pooling policy. A senior AAP functionary said the party was holding talks to explain the policy's benefits.
Punjab pushes biogas plants to tackle stubble burning amid resistance
Punjab promotes Compressed Biogas using paddy straw. Twenty-two CBG plants are planned. Six plants are functional in Khanna, Sangrur, and other areas. However, villages resist due to pollution concerns. A Nabha project was scrapped. Ludhiana plant faced shutdown. Villagers want transparency and benefits. Government committees are trying to resolve the issues. Addressing concerns is crucial for bioenergy goals.
ED Initiates PMLA Probe In Axis Mutual Fund 'Front-Running' Case, Conducts Multi-City Searches
The ED searches under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act were conducted in Delhi, Ahmedabad, Bhavnagar, Bhuj, Gurugram, Kolkata and Ludhiana, the sources said.
Jailed gangster Jaggu Bhagwanpuria threatened to kill my son, alleges Punjab Congress MP Randhawa
CHANDIGARH: Senior Congress leader and Member of Parliament from Gurdaspur, Punjab, Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, has alleged that the jailed gangster Jagdeep Singh alias Jaggu Bhagwanpuria has threatened to kill his son, Udhayveer Singh Randhawa. Randhawa, the former Deputy Chief Minister of Punjab, who is currently in the national capital for the Monsoon Session of Parliament, said that a person named Parminder Singh from Fatehgarh Churian and a few other party supporters came to meet his son at 10 am on Thursday. An hour after a picture from the meeting was posted online, there was a firing at his son's turban shop. But thankfully, no one was injured. I have brought the matter to the notice of the Punjab DGP, he said. He alleged that even from inside prison, Bhagwanpuria was threatening people and that one of his associates had also received a threatening call. After the firing incident on Thursday evening, one person repeatedly wrote objectionable comments on my son's social media post, Randhawa added. He questioned the functioning of the states law enforcement agencies, asking, Where is their intelligence, where is their cyber crime unit? If a common individual posts a status with a gun in hand, they are arrested immediately. But those who are openly threatening otherswhat action is being taken against them? Threats didnt deter us even during the days of terrorism. We are not afraid. But my concern is: where does the law and order situation in the state stand today? Alleging that law and order has collapsed in Punjab, Randhawa pointed to a recent incident where a prominent businessman was shot dead in broad daylight outside his showroom. There have been several other serious crimes. What is the situation today? he asked. This latest incident comes just over a month after Bhagwanpurias mother, Harjit Kaur, and a relative, Karanvir Singh, were shot dead in Batala, Gurdaspur district, on June 26. The rival Davinder Bambiha gang claimed responsibility for the killings. Randhawa said that after the Batala incident, an MLA from the ruling AAP claimed the killing of Bhagwanpurias mother was a political murder. The police should have taken his statement and questioned how it was a political murder. What are the police doing? I have repeatedly brought to the notice of senior officers the issue of a police officers nexus with gangstersa matter that threatens national securitybut no action has been taken, he said. Earlier, Randhawa also posted on X, stating: Jailed gangster Jaggu Bhagwanpuria has threatened to kill my son. One of my associates met my son and within an hour of leaving, he was fired upon today. Bhagwant Mann and Arvind Kejriwal have turned Punjab into a gangster's paradise where law and order have totally collapsed. I am in Delhi for the Parliament session. No gangster can shake me! Randhawa has previously accused Bhagwanpuria of influencing voters in Dera Baba Nanak during elections, including the November 2023 assembly bypoll, where he alleged the gangsters family intimidated locals to support AAP candidates. Responding to the allegations, AAP spokesperson Neel Garg said Randhawa should provide full details so the matter can be investigated. He added, Everyone knows that gangsters got patronage under previous Congress governments. The AAP government has zero tolerance towards gangsterism. We do not spare anyone who tries to disturb law and order. Since coming to power, we have jailed several gangsters and even attached their properties. Jaggu Bhagwanpuria, a gangster with over 128 criminal casesincluding murder, extortion, arms smuggling, and drug traffickingis currently lodged in Silchar Central Jail, Assam, under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. He was shifted there from Bathinda Central Jail in March this year. He was already in the custody of Punjab Police in connection with the 2022 murder of singer Sidhu Moosewala and faces several other criminal charges. Reacting to Randhawa's claims, Leader of the Opposition in Punjab and senior Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa said, A jailed gangster openly threatening a senior INC leader, former Deputy CM, and sitting MPthis is not just a law and order failure, its a damning indictment of the complete collapse of governance under Bhagwant Mann and Arvind Kejriwal. If gangsters can intimidate elected representatives from behind bars, what chance does the common man in Punjab stand? Is this the badlav AAP promiseda state where criminals rule and citizens live in fear? Bajwa accused the AAP government of turning Punjab into a playground for gangsters, saying, While Kejriwal remains busy marketing false narratives, Punjab has become lawless under AAP. Punjab Congress president and Ludhiana MP Amrinder Singh Raja Warring also condemned the incident, saying, A gangster has the audacity to threaten a senior INC leader from inside jail! Imagine the plight of common people in Punjab. This reflects the complete collapse of law and order in Punjab.
Farmers take out tractor marches demanding immediate withdrawal of land pooling scheme in Punjab
CHANDIGARH: With anger mounting against the controversial land pooling scheme of the Punjab government, farmers across the state held tractor marches demanding its immediate withdrawal. The state government plans to acquire 65,533 acres of land across 21 cities and towns in the state to develop both industrial and residential zones. It is the largest acquisition of land by the government in the state since it was reorganized in 1966. The Sanyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) comprising 35 farm unions had given a call for tractor marches which got support from other farm unions including the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) and BKU Ekta-Ugrahan, the largest farm union of the state. On the call given by the SKM, tractor marches were taken out in various parts of the state including Ludhiana, Amritsar, Sangrur, Mohali, Bathinda, Taran Taran, Patiala, Ferozepur, Fategarh Sahib, Ropar, Jalandhar, SBS Nagar, Hoshiarpur, Moga and Mansa districts despite inclement weather. The biggest show of strength by farmers was witnessed in Ludhiana district where the state government proposes to acquire 45,861 acres of land. This includes 24,311 acres of land for residential purposes and 21,550 acres for setting up industrial zones. The epicentre of the protest was Dana Mandi in Jodhan near Ludhiana. A cavalcade of nearly 300 vehicles including tractors and tempos carrying many farmers and activists made its way through various villages. Senior SKM leader and president of BKU (Lakhowal Group) Harinder Singh Lakhowal who himself led the tractor march from Kum Kalan to Ratangarh village, covering 30 villages of the area, told TNIE that farmers in thousands participated in the tractor march, which started at around 9.30 am and ended at 2 pm. On August 4, a meeting of the SKM will be held to decide where to hold the massive rally which we have planned for August 24. If by then the government does not take back the land pooling scheme, a big agitation will be announced by us, he added. Without naming the AAP, posters have been put up in many villages, which read, Any official or leader of any party who wants to apprise about the benefits of the scheme will not be allowed to enter the village. Terming the policy a 'major conspiracy' to erase villages from the map of the state, senior SKM leader and president of BKU (Rajewal Group) Balbir Singh Rajewal said the tractor rally was held in several places of Ludhiana district including Kumkalan, Balion, Dakha, Jodha and Jagraon. It was the biggest-ever march in recent times, as the public in rural areas showed their anger against the governments bid to take over their fertile lands and displace them from their homes. This policy will ruin at least 20,000 families of farmers and leave farm labourers jobless, he said. In Amritsar district, tractor marches were taken out in Ajnala and Mannawala as farmers from villages around Guru Ka Bagh marched towards Gurdwara Morcha Sahib on the Amritsar-Ajnala road where they were joined by another cavalcade from villages around Rajasansi. A march was also taken out in neighboring Tarn Taran district. In Sangrur district, the rally started from Sohian village, near Sangrur, and culminated at the deputy commissioner's office. Farmers led by SKM leaders also started a dharna against the government in front of the DC office in Fatehgarh Sahib. Sarwan Singh Pandher, General Secretary of Kisan Mazdoor Sangarsh Committee, said they appeal to the government to withdraw the policy before a massive agitation starts. We know that the proposed acquisition announcement by the government was just a start, he said. Several tractors were fitted with music systems and extra seating to accommodate more protesters. These mobile convoys passed through the villages where the government reportedly plans to acquire land under the pooling policy. Women also extended support to the protesting farmers as they offered refreshments including chabeels, langars and parshad. The farmer leaders say that farmers are getting ready to fall into direct confrontation if such a situation arises. We are determined to oppose the land pooling scheme and do not want to part with our fertile lands and will go to any length to stop our land to be taken forcibly, said a farmer Kamalpreet Singh. The AAP government has been facing flak from opposition parties, including the Congress, Shiromani Akali Dal and BJP, which dubbed its land pooling policy a looting scheme to rob farmers of their land. In return, the AAP has hit out at the opposition parties for spreading misleading propaganda.
New Delhi-Katra Vande Bharat: The Train For Your Next Vaishno Devi Visit | Complete Guide
New Delhi-Katra Vande Bharat: The cities connected by the services are New Delhi, Ambala, Ludhiana, Pathankot, Udhampur, Kathua, Jammu Tawi, and Katra
Punjabs land pooling policy challenged in High Court as activists flag environmental concern
CHANDIGARH: The Punjab Governments controversial land pooling policy, aimed at acquiring nearly 65,000 acres across the state for residential and industrial development, has come under legal scrutiny, with a public interest litigation (PIL) challenging it in the Punjab and Haryana High Court. A PIL was filed stating that this policy fails to comply with statutory safeguards, including social and environmental impact assessments, fair compensation, and rehabilitation of affected families. The petition comes at a time when farmers and opposition parties are protesting against the implementation of this policy. Social activists Naveender PK Singh and Samita Kaur are the petitioners in this case and have submitted to the High Court that the move to acquire such a large chunk of land would have widespread negative effects on the agrarian economy of Punjab, which is a major contributor to the food grain supply of the country. This petition has been moved by advocates Sahir Singh Virk and V.B. Godara. During the hearing, the High Court was informed that the said policy is directly contrary to the spirit and mandate of the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 (LARR Act), which is a central legislation. The case was heard by the division bench headed by Chief Justice Sheel Nagu. Responding to the plea, the counsel for the Punjab Government contended that the land pooling policy was notified under the 2025 policy and not under the LARR Act 2013, as argued by the petitioner. On this, the bench of the Chief Justice advised the counsel for the petitioner to amend the petition accordingly to challenge the acquisition of land as per the 2025 policy. The matter was adjourned for August 19 for further hearing. Virk said that they will now amend the petition challenging the Land Pooling Policy 2025. Although we tried to convince the court that there is not much difference between the policies as the 2025 policy is in continuation of the 2013 policy, on the advice of the bench, we will amend our petition accordingly. The next date of hearing has now been fixed for August 19, he said. The petition stated that the policy mechanism was arbitrary and unjust and lacked any legal framework for ensuring transparency or protecting farmers' rights. Moreover, it circumvents the safeguards of the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 (LARR Act). The policy is being used as an indirect and illegal method of land acquisition that sidesteps the mandatory procedures laid down under the LARR Act, particularly Sections 4, 8, and 10, which mandate social and environmental impact assessments and bar acquisition of fertile agricultural land except in exceptional circumstances, the plea states. The petitioners have alleged that the state government, through agencies like the Greater Ludhiana Area Development Authority (GLADA), is pressing ahead with the project despite massive opposition. More than 1,600 landowners and farmers have already submitted affidavits before GLADA opposing the move. Media reports have extensively covered the protests and highlighted discrepancies between the states claims and the situation on the ground, the petition further stated. The petitioners have prayed for quashing the impugned notifications dated July 4 and to restrain Punjab from proceeding with the land pooling policy without adhering to the due process of law under the LARR Act, especially when such fertile agricultural land is at stake.
Van falls into Punjab canal, women & kids among 8 dead
A tragic accident occurred in Ludhiana as an overloaded pick-up van carrying 25 pilgrims returning from Naina Devi temple plunged into the Sirhind canal. Eight people, including women and children, died, and two remain missing. The vehicle, carrying pilgrims from Manakwal village, veered off the Jagera bridge, leading to the devastating incident, while some passengers managed to swim to safety.
Punjab CM Mann interacts with farmers in Ludhiana
Samrala: Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Sunday interacted with a group of villagers under shades of a tree and sought their inputs for carving out a Rangla Punjab (vibrant Punjab) and also apprised them about key initiatives of his government. There were no sofas or the formalities of government protocol in otherwise usual meetings of Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
AAP government facing backlash as village panchayats pass resolutions against land pooling policy
CHANDIGARH: The Aam Aadmi Party-led Punjab Government is facing backlash in many villages across the state over the controversial land pooling policy , which it has notified and plans to acquire 65,533 acres of land across 21 cities and towns in the state to develop both industrial and residential zones. As many as 107 panchayats across the state have passed resolutions in their respective villages, saying they will not give up their land to the government and in the coming days, many more panchayats are expected to pass similar resolutions. Talking with TNIE , Senior Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) leader and president of BKU (Lakhowal group) Harinder Singh Lakhowal said that the opposition to the state government's controversial land pooling policy is growing, despite CM Bhagwant Mann and several AAP leaders insisting that land acquisition will be purely voluntary. Around 15 to 20 panchayats in Jodha, Dohal Kallan, Rattana and other villages near Ludhiana have already passed resolutions in their respective panchayats not to give land to the government. Also, many other village panchayats who had earlier passed resolutions not to give land are now re-passing the resolution because the original resolutions were not legally tenable. A proper procedure has to be followed to call a gram sabha and appoint a secretary who will oversee that the resolution has been passed, he added. AAP govt in hot water in Punjab as farmer unions oppose land pooling; BJP, Congress give tactical support to stir Lakhowal said that a total of around 200 panchayats of 160 where land is being acquired for residential purposes and another 40 where, in the coming week, land will be acquired for industrial purpose, are expected to pass the resolutions soon. Most of them are in Ludhiana, and around 24,000 acres of land is being acquired in the district, followed by Moga, Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur and Amritsar districts, he added. Besides this 24,000 acres to be acquired in Ludhiana for residential purpose and another 21,000 acres is being acquired for industrial purposes, the notification of the same is expected to be issued in the coming week for that the farmers unions have called for a meeting tomorrow to oppose the acquisition and we will ask the villagers if they want to give their land to the government or not as all of them have already objected, he said. Pawandeep Singh of Mehlon said that 250 acres of land is being acquired in their village, which is being opposed. The very thought of losing his small landholding and moving to a new place did not let him sleep, he said. Gurinder Singh of Nathu Bhaini village says that around 350 acres of land in their village are being acquired by the government, leaving nothing to the villagers. This is the first legal hurdle we have cleared in what we assume will be a long fight with the state government, he said. In Bhattian village near Phillaur, where 700 acres of land is to be acquired, the sarpanch of the village Ranjit Singh Batth said that the panchayat passed a resolution against the acquisition a few days ago. Many farmers are drawing parallels between this policy and the three farm laws that were introduced in 2020 by the BJP-led Union Government, which were later repealed after a year-long struggle. Senior SKM leader and president of the BKU (Rajewal Group) said that the SKM was also guiding panchayats on filing of resolutions against their land being taken away. The government is falsely saying that the farmers support this policy, he said. The farmers from across the state will take out a tractor march on July 30 against the land pooling policy.
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.
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.
RS Chairman Dhankhar accepts AAP leader Sanjeev Arora's resignation with effect from July 1
Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar announced on Monday that he has accepted Sanjeev Arora's resignation as a member of the Upper House, effective July 1. Arora, an Aam Aadmi Party leader, was elected from Punjab in April 2022. His resignation follows his victory in the Ludhiana West assembly bypoll.
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.
'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
Chandigarh diary | Kangana concerned over lack of respect for MPs
Bollywood actor and Mandi MP Kangana Ranaut in a recent interview roughed many of her party leaders after she expressed concern about lack of respect and resources for MPs. The national award-winning actress said she had implied that she was not enjoying her work as an MP as people would came to her with panchayat-level problems. If you are an MP, you cannot be in the profession if your are an honest person, she said. When asked if she expected to be part of the Union Cabinet, Kangana said she expected to get a portfolio. She said after her contributions toward the people and the Centre, she believes she should have been assigned a ministry. Mann praises 2 Cong MLAs in the assembly 2: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann showered praises on two Congress MLAs in the recent special Assembly session; the legislators being Pargat Singh from Jalandhar (Cantonment) and Rana Gurjit Singh from Kapurthala. The CM As Captain of the Indian hockey team, he (Pargat) witnessed the Tricolour being raised during international hockey competitions. He also praised Rana Gurjit, calling him Bapu (father-figure) . Both Congress legislators were left surprised by the CMs words of affection. Pargat and Rana have been critical of Punjab Congress president and Ludhiana MP Amarinder Singh Raja Warring and LoP Partap Singh Bajwa. Sainis dressing down to cops over law & order Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini chaired a 3-hour-long meeting over law and order last week with the top brass of state police. In the meeting that ran well into the night, Saini did not mince his words in conveying his displeasure over the poor law and order situation in the state. He reportedly stressed the need for each police station to consistentl y track crime patterns and respond swiftly to any rise in criminal incidents. Accountability should be ensured not only at the district level but also at the police station level, the CM said. Saini told the officers that he was in power because of the mandate of the people and not due to some ones generosity. Harpreet Bajwa Our correspondent in Chandigarh hsbajwa73@gmail.com
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.
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 .
AIPL DreamCity Ludhiana to Host the 4th-Ludhiana District Pickleball Championship on July 12
The growing popularity of pickleball among youth and adults alike is being actively supported by infrastructure and initiatives like those at AIPL DreamCity, making Ludhiana a rising destination for sporting excellence.
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 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.
Punjab cadre 1989-batch IPS Parag Jain appointed R&AW chief
NEW DELHI: The government on Saturday issued an order appointing 1989-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of Punjab Cadre Parag Jain as the next Secretary of Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW) for a tenure of two years. Jain will replace Ravi Sinha, a 1988-batch IPS officer of Chhattisgarh cadre, as he will complete his tenure as the chief of the R&AW on June 30 and Jain will take over from him on July 1. In an order the Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT said, The Appointments Committee ofCabinet has approved the appointment of Shri Parag jain (PB:89) to the post of Secretary, Research & Analysis Wing (R$AW) under the Cabinet Secretariat for a tenure of two years from the date of assumption of the charge of the post or until further orders,whichever is earlier, in terms of provisions of FR 56 (d) and Rule 16 (1A) of All India India Service(Death-cum-Retirement Benefits) Rule, 1958. Jain is currently heading the Aviation Research Centre, which played a critical role during Operation Sindoor, by collecting intelligence about Pakistani armed forces and the exact locations of the terror camps situated in the neighbouring country. Jain is also credited with playing a key operational role during the terrorism days in Punjab. He had served in Bhatinda, Mansa, Hoshiarpur districts of Punjab as SP and was SSP Chandigarh and DIG Ludhiana in the past. Jain has also handled Pakistan in Indias external intelligence agency with tenures in Jammu and Kashmir during abrogation of Article 370 and Operation Balakote. The next R&AW chief has always been an unassuming officer while serving in Canada and in Sri Lanka as Indian representative in the respective missions there. During his Canada posting, he had taken on the Khalistan ecosystem there and had then warned Delhi that it was becoming something dangerous. With Jain taking over from Sinha after next Monday, Indias external intelligence agency would needs an overhaul as it was found wanting during Maldives and Bangladesh crisis in the past two years. The R&AWs role becomes very important considering the fact that Asim Munir has become a Field Marshal with cross border terrorism against India high on the governments agenda. Given that India has suspended the Indus Water Treaty, it is anticipated that Pakistan will continue to use terrorism as a proxy to strike back and for that Indias external intelligence needs to improve its ground activities rather than purely relying on technical inputs.
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.
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.
Punjab cabinet expansion in 2-4 days, Sanjeev Arora to be inducted minister: CM Bhagwant Mann
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced a cabinet expansion soon. Sanjeev Arora, winner of the Ludhiana West bypoll, will join as minister. The Aam Aadmi Party retained the Ludhiana West seat. Arora defeated Congress candidate Bharat Bhushan Ashu. Mann mentioned that there would be no changes in portfolios.
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.
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.
AAP wins Visavadar, BJP sweeps Kadi: Gujarat bypolls deliver mixed mandate
AHMEDABAD: In a high-stakes political showdown, the Gujarat by-elections delivered a split verdict with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) tightening its grip in Visavadar and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) consolidating its dominance in Kadi. The results, declared after intense multi-round counting, reflected voter sentiment across two politically charged constituencies and carried larger implications for both regional and national equations. In Visavadar, AAPs Gopal Italia scripted a decisive victory, defeating BJPs Kirit Patel by a margin of 17,554 votes. Italia garnered 75,942 votes, while Patel trailed with 58,388. Congress nominee Nitin Ranpariya managed a distant third with just 5,501 votes, and 1,716 votes went to NOTA. From the very first round of counting at 8 am on Monday, Italia held a steady lead, never relinquishing ground. His win signals AAPs firm hold over the Visavadar seat a constituency that has traditionally been a bastion of opposition politics. The bypoll was necessitated by the resignation of AAP MLA Bhupat Bhayani, who switched allegiance to the BJP. Ironically, the party he defected to failed to reclaim the seat. BJP, Congress and AAP lock horns in high-stakes bypolls in Gujarat Visavadars political story has been turbulent since 2012, when former CM Keshubhai Patel quit the BJP, floated the Gujarat Parivartan Party, and won from the seat. After his resignation in 2014, Congresss Harshad Ribadiya took over, holding the post until 2022. Bhayani, then with AAP, had snatched the seat a feat the party has now successfully repeated. Despite a modest 57.80% turnout, polling was largely peaceful, barring the need for re-polling in two villages Malida and Nava Vaghaniya on June 21. Final figures from the Election Commission revealed Italias tally swelling to nearly 76,000 votes after 18 rounds of counting. Reacting to the win, Delhi AAP president Saurabh Bharadwaj said, Many wrote off AAP after Delhi. But weve won Ludhiana West, and now Gujarat too. This is a strong bounce-back. Those who thought Arvind Kejriwal would be sidelined this is their answer. Meanwhile, in Kadi, the BJP reasserted its dominance. Rajendra Chavda secured a resounding 99,709 votes, crushing Congress rival Ramesh Chavda, who managed 60,282 votes. AAPs Jagdish Chavda fared poorly with just 3,089 votes, while 1,701 opted for NOTA. Rajendra Chavda led from start to finish across 22 rounds, winning with a massive 39,427-vote margin. The bypoll was held following the death of BJP MLA Karsan Solanki. Voter turnout here was 56.89%, according to provisional data. This is the victory of the Organisation and the people of Kadi, Chavda said after the win. The voters have endorsed the governments way of working. While eight candidates contested the Kadi seat, the battle was squarely between the BJP and Congress, with AAP and smaller regional parties barely making a dent. Notably, despite being national allies, Congress and AAP fought these bypolls independently, signalling the complexities within the INDIA bloc. With this outcome, BJPs tally in the Gujarat Legislative Assembly now rises to 162, strengthening its overwhelming majority in the 182-member House. The by-elections may have been local in scale, but their political reverberations stretch far beyond Gujarats borders.
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.
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.
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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.
Bye-elections: Voting concludes 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
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.
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 issues COVID advisory amid rise in cases, Ludhiana emerges as hotspot
CHANDIGARH: Amid a slight rise in COVID-19 cases, the Punjab Government has issued a public advisory urging high-risk individuals such as the elderly, pregnant women, immunocompromised persons, and those with underlying health conditions to wear masks in crowded or enclosed spaces. Health care workers have also been advised to adhere strictly to COVID-appropriate behaviour. The advisory, issued on Friday, reads: Due to a slight rise in COVID-19 cases in some parts of the country, a precautionary advisory is being issued. Though the situation in Punjab is under control and the health system is fully prepared, citizens are advised to follow basic safety measures to help prevent the spread of infection. Among the recommended practices, the advisory states that vulnerable individuals and health care staff should wear masks in crowded or closed spaces. It further advises: Cover your mouth and nose while coughing/sneezing using a handkerchief, tissue or elbow crease. If you feel sick (fever, cough, breathing difficulty), wear a mask and consult a doctor. Donts include: Avoid crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, especially if you have health issues. Do not touch your face without washing hands. Avoid spitting in public. Refrain from self-medicating for respiratory symptoms. The advisory follows a noticeable surge in infections across the state, particularly in Ludhiana, which has emerged as the current hotspot. Two COVID-related deaths have been reported: a 69-year-old woman receiving treatment at PGIMER in Chandigarh and a 39-year-old man admitted to Government Medical College and Hospital, Sector 32. Both were residents of Ludhiana and had pre-existing health conditions and recent travel histories, making them more vulnerable. According to the Punjab Health Department, active COVID cases in the state have increased from 12 last week to over 35, with total cases in 2025 reaching 60. Ludhiana alone has reported 23 new cases, a spike partially linked to ongoing political activity and gatherings for the Ludhiana (West) Assembly bypoll. As part of the states ongoing Har Shukkarvaar, Dengue Te Vaar public health campaign, Punjab Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh visited Balongi village near Mohali and addressed concerns about rising infections. He said, While neighbouring states like Delhi and Haryana have seen a rise in cases, Punjab has recorded only 31 mild, asymptomatic infections so far. The two reported deaths involved individuals with co-morbidities and may not be directly linked to COVID-19. Dr Singh urged residents to avoid closed-door gatherings and prioritise well-ventilated spaces. He assured the public that the states healthcare infrastructure is fully prepared, with adequate oxygen supplies, essential medicines, and emergency beds available.
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Vijay Rupani re-scheduled his London visit from June 5 to 12 due to Ludhiana (West) by-elections
CHANDIGARH: Former Chief Minister of Gujarat and Punjab Affairs-in-charge of BJP Vijay Rupani, who was among the 241 passengers killed in the tragic Air India crash in Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon, has been involved in Punjab politics for the last three years. In fact, he re-scheduled his visit to London from June 5 to June 12 due to the Ludhiana (West) by-elections. The constituency goes to polling on June 19, and the result will be announced on June 23. Rupani was specifically brought by the saffron party to take charge of the state in September 2022 after the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) ended its alliance with the BJP. During this time, BJP's electoral performance improved. The party's vote share rose to 18.56 per cent from 6.6 percent in last years parliamentary elections. Under his leadership, the party had been taking on the AAP-led Punjab Government over many issues, including the law and order and the drug menace. State BJP leadership described him as an ``acceptable, humble and down-to-earth human being who deeply connected with the people across all levels of the state administration. He had planned to travel to London on June 5 to meet his daughter but his travel plans were delayed due to the Ludhiana (west) by-election. His wife, Anjali Rupani, had already left for London on June 5. The state party leaders recalled that Rupani was campaigning for the upcoming Ludhiana West assembly bypoll for weeks and had been diligently carrying out his responsibilities, including attending the filing of nomination papers by the party candidate Jiwan Gupta on June 2 from Ludhiana (West). On June 9, he had exuded confidence that Gupta would win the bypoll with a huge margin. Known as a protg of Amit Shah, Rupani was a first-time MLA from Rajkot (West) when he became the Chief Minister of Gujarat. Expressing profound sorrow over the passing of Rupani, Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar said, He was a humble and compassionate human being and a grassroots leader. I had the fortune of being associated with him while he was in-charge of the Punjab BJP. He was a real gentleman politician. Not only Gujarat has lost a great leader in him, but it is a personal loss for me, as I found his gentle and soft demeanour so endearing. His sagacity and simplicity in public life will be missed. Punjab BJP spokesman Pritpal Singh Baliawal who was the last party leader to see him off at Ludhiana said that he was a leader of the masses and he used to connect with people one to one to get feedback from the ground. A sombre mood has enveloped the party unit as politicians from across the spectrum expressed their condolences. Among those who offered their sympathies included AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal, former Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal and Leader of the Opposition and senior congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa.
CHANDIGARH: The Punjab Police have cracked the blind murder case of 30-year-old social media influencer Kanchan Kumari, popularly known as Kamal Kaur Bhabhi, with the arrest of two nihangs who allegedly killed her as part of a moral policing act. Kanchan was found dead under mysterious circumstances inside her car parked outside Adesh University at Bhucho Kalan, along the Bathinda-Chandigarh highway, on Wednesday. The arrested accused have been identified as Jaspreet Singh (32) of Mehron village in Moga district and Nimratjeet Singh (21) of Harike in Tarn Taran district. Both are unemployed and frequently wore nihang attire. They were arrested around 1 am on Thursday. However, the key accused, Amritpal Singh Mehron, remains absconding. Canada-based designated gangster-terrorist Arsh Dalla had also allegedly threatened Kanchan earlier, warning her of dire consequences if she continued posting objectionable videos. Confirming that the murder was premeditated and executed with full coordination, Senior Superintendent of Police of Bathinda, Amneet Kondal, said, The alleged accused Jaspreet Singh and Nimratjeet Singh have been arrested for the murder, while a search is on for the third accused, Amritpal Singh Mehron, a self-styled Sikh radical leader, who is on the run. They had earlier warned the deceased Kanchan not to post her online content, which they thought was vulgar and objectionable. The main accused Amritpal Singh had earlier warned her to stop posting vulgar videos and had planned to teach her a lesson. He, along with others, then hatched a conspiracy and they strangled her to death at an isolated location on Tuesday, Kondal added. She further revealed that on June 7, Amritpal had approached Kanchan at her Ludhiana residence and sought promotional work in Bathinda. He again met her the next day and convinced her to visit Bathinda. Then, on June 9, he contacted her again, and Kanchan agreed. That night, her mother could not contact her. Later, on Wednesday night, her decomposed body was found inside her car parked outside Adesh University near Bathinda, said Kondal. The alleged accused also took her to a workshop on the pretext of getting her car repaired. During an argument, Jaspreet, who was wearing a waistband under his shirt, strangled her. Later, her body was shifted and dumped in her car to mislead the police, Kondal said. She added that the police collected CCTV footage to trace the accused during the investigation. Kanchan, who belonged to a family of migrant workers but spoke fluent Punjabi, had 2.36 lakh followers on YouTube, 3.84 lakh on Instagram, and 1.74 lakh on Facebook. She frequently posted reels and stories and was cremated in Bathinda on Thursday as her family was unable to take her mutilated body back to Ludhiana. Her mother, Girija Devi, told the police that her daughter often travelled for promotional work. The arrests came after Amritpal Singh Mehron claimed responsibility for the murder on social media, just hours after Kanchans decomposed body was discovered. A video surfaced online in which Mehron is seen justifying the crime, saying Kanchan was killed by two of his accomplices. He claimed she belonged to a non-Sikh family but used a Sikh name to create immoral content. He went on to say that his accomplices would continue to target people engaged in objectionable content creation.
Air India crash in Ahmedabad could be the worst involving a single aircraft in India
The crash of Air India Flight 171 in Ahmedabad on Thursday could be the worst ever accident involving a single aircraft in India. There were 242 people on board the flight, while more casualties are likely on the ground as the plane crashed into a hostel for medical students. The only plane accident in India with more casualties was the mid-air collision of two aircraft over Charkhi Dadri in Haryana, around 100 km from Delhi, in 1996 in which 349 people died. That crash involved the collision of a Saudia flight from Delhi to Dhahran in Saudi Arabia and a Kazakhstan Airlines flight from Chimkent in Kazakhstan to Delhi. LIVE | Air India flight to London crashes near Ahmedabad airport during takeoff; all 242 passengers presumed dead The previous worst crash involving a single aircraft in India took place on New Year's Day in 1978 when an Air India flight crashed into the Arabian Sea just off the coast of Bombay less than two minutes after take-off. All 213 people on board that flight, which was headed to Dubai, died. The aircraft was a Boeing-747 named Emperor Ashoka. The worst ever crash involving an Air India plane was in 1985 when a flight from Canada to India was blown up over the Atlantic Ocean after a bomb was planted on board by Khalistani terrorists. All 329 people on board were killed. Here is a timeline of the major air accidents in India since 1990: August 7, 2020 Air India Express Flight IX-1344 Kozhikode In Keralas biggest plane accident, an Air India Express aircraft carrying 190 people on board, including crew, from Dubai to Calicut airport skidded off the table-top runway while landing in bad weather, fell 35 feet onto a road below and split into two. Operating under the Vande Bharat Mission to repatriate Indians stranded abroad due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Boeing 737-800 aircraft was flying from Dubai to Kozhikode (Calicut). Such runways, which are located on hilltops, create the optical illusion of being at the same level as the plains below when a pilot comes in for a landing. The crash claimed 21 lives, including both pilots, and left more than 100 injured, some critically. May 22, 2010 Air India Express Flight IX-81 - Mangalore Air India Express Flight IX-812 crashed on May 22, 2010, at Mangalore International Airport, marking one of the deadliest aviation disasters in India. The flight, a Boeing 737-800, was operating from Dubai to Mangalore with 166 people onboard, including many Indian expatriates returning home. The 2-year-old aircraft had crashed outside Mangalore airport in Karnataka on May 22, killing 158 people when it burst into flames after overshooting a table-top runway and plunged into a nearby forest.The crash resulted in 158 fatalities, with only 8 survivors, most of whom were seated in the front section of the aircraft. The investigation found that the pilot overshot the table-top runway at Mangalore and tried to pull up the plane but it was too late. November 10, 2009 An ATR-72 passenger plane, operated by Kingfisher Airlines, was damaged when it skidded off the runway on landing at Mumbai-Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (BOM), India. Flight IT4124 operated on a scheduled domestic flight from Bhavnagar Airport (BHU) to Mumbai. Maintenance on main runway 27 at Mumbai effected operations at the airport between certain times. October 29, 2008 King Air C-90 aircraft owned and operated by Govt of Punjab was operating Positioning flight from Chandigarh to Ludhiana on 29.10.08 with two cockpit crew on board. The flight en-route up to overhead Ludhiana was uneventful. The crew located the runway late due prevailing Low visibility. They were not comfortable with the approach and made a go around; a non-standard go-around due to low visibility. In the anxiety to not to loose the sight of the field they descended in three orbits in the vicinity of the airfield on the west side of R/w 12, perhaps to land after making the short circuit from the right. However they lost the control and impacted with the ground in the steep left bank. Aircraft got destroyed in the crash due to the impact and post impact fire. Both the occupant on board died due to fire and collapsing aircraft structure. Air India crash near Ahmedabad airport: What we know so far March 19, 2008 The Premier 1 corporate jet aircraft took off normally from Jodhpur (JDH), India. The flight en-route up to approach to land at Udaipur (UDR) was uneventful. After clearance to land at Udaipur the pilot selected the flaps-10; the flap didnt respond and Flaps-Fail message flashed. The pilot decided to go for a flap-less landing and carried out the check list for Flaps Up approach & landing. The approach speed of the aircraft was probably high and it could not be brought to the assigned limit for flap less landing. The pilot continued approach at high speed. From about 25 feet height, the aircraft had a sort of free fall and impacted the runway. It rolled for about 150 feet with heavy breaking on both the wheels; which caused heavy rubber deposits on the runway and subsequent tyre burst. The aircraft veered to right and hit the boundary wall before it stopped. September 8, 2007 Vulcanair P68C aircraft VT-JOY operated by M/s Joy Alukkas Traders (I)pvt Ltd, Cochin operating flight from Bangalore Airport to Cochin on 08.9.2007 after refueling at Bangalore. Its took-off from Bangalore airport runway 27 at approx 1514 Hrs normally. At about1520 Hrs IST the aircraft wanted to return back due technical. However it could not make it as it was losing the engine power very fast. Subsequently Radar contact with the aircraft was lost and the aircraft crashed onto the lakebed of Gawdanapalya Lake, about 5NM Southwest of Bangalore airport. All the persons onboard received fatal injuries. There was no evidence of fire. Aircraft was completely destroyed. July 1, 2007 ATR 72-212A aircraft VT -JCE operated by M/s Jet Airways was operating schedule flight sectors DelhiBhopalIndoreDelhi on 1.7.2007. The flight up-till approach to land at Indore was normal. On coming to the runway the aircraft touched down moderately hard and bounced high. The Pilots were perhaps determined to salvage the abnormal situation and added Power to the Engines with intention to cushion the sink-rate and settle the runway. On the contrary, aircraft came hard on the RWY and bounced once again. This got followed with a series of bounces in succession. While bouncing the aircraft migrated from the runway and finally came to full halt on right side close to airport boundary wall. There was no fire in the accident. March 11, 2006 Low-cost carrier Air Deccan's flight from Coimbatore was involved in a mishap when it skidded off the runway after landing at the Bangalore airport.The brand new ATR-72 plane with a compliment of 40 passengers and four crew members damaged its landing gear -- nose wheel and undercarriage-- and slipped out of the runway. April 17, 2004 The aircraft owned and operated by M/s Agni Aerosports Adventure Academy,Bangalore was scheduled for a flight from Jakkur airport to Nadirgul on 7.4.2004. The aircraft took off at about 1115 Hrs with four persons on board including pilot in command. Film actress Ms. Soundarya was also on board the aircraft. After attaining a height of about 150 ft after takes off, the aircraft took a steep left turn, stalled and hit the ground. A few minutes later, the aircraft caught fire and all the occupants received fatal injuries. The aircraft got destroyed due impact and post impact fire. Ahmedabad Air India plane crash: Former Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani feared to be among passengers September 30, 2001 (Charter Flight) King Air C 90 aircraft VT-EFF owned by Birla Global Finance Ltd. and operated by M/s Jindal Strips Ltd., New Dehli took off from Delhi on 30.09.2001 at 1241 hrs with six passengers and two crewmembers on board. The aircraft was bound to Kanpur. En route it reported Aligarh as estimated. Short of next reporting point KADAS the aircraft was about 10 miles right of track for which the permission was obtained and the pilot requested for direct routing to Kanpur. Captain was advised by ATC Lucknow, to co-ordinate with Gwalior and Agra for traffic information. Thereafter, the aircraft lost the contact with the ATC and crashed. All the persons on board received fatal injuries. The aircraft got destroyed due fire. July 17, 2000 Boeing 737 aircraft VT-EGD, owned by Indian Airlines Ltd. and operated by Airlines Allied Services Ltd. took off from NSCBI Airport Kolkata at 0615 hrs on 17.07.2000 for Patna Lucknow - Delhi. The aircraft was under the command of Capt. Sohan Pal and there were 58 persons, including six crewmembers, on board. At approx 0713 hrs, the aircraft informed Patna ATC, estimated arrival time at Patna at 0736 hrs. The aircraft informed Patna ATC at 0732 hrs that it would like to do a 360-degree due to being high on approach. The ATC informed the aircraft to report final for R/W 25 after carrying out a 360-degree turn and the pilot acknowledged the same. This was the last communication recorded between the aircraft and the ATC. During the approach, for R/W 25 at Patna, the aircraft turned steeply to the left, losing height, and collided with the tree in the approach funnel and crashed in the GardaniBagh area near Patna Airport. The aircraft was totally destroyed due impact with the ground and post impact fire. July 30, 1998 Indian Airlines DO-228 aircraft VT-EJW was involved in an accident at KochiAerodrome on 30-7-98. The aircraft was scheduled to operate from Kochi toThiruvananthapuram. Aircraft took off from runway 17 of Kochi Aerodrome. After attaining a height of about 400 ft. it was seen pitching up steeply to a near vertical attitude and thereafter appeared to perform a manoeuvre similar to a stall turn to the right and crashed on the roof top of the Component Repair Shop (CRS) building of the Naval Aircraft Yard, Kochi. After the impact the aircraft caught fire and was completely destroyed. All persons on board received fatal injuries. Three persons working in CRS also received fatal and six other persons received minor injuries. November 12, 1996 A Saudi Arabian Boeing 747 aircraft and Kazakhastna IL-76 aircraft collided in mid-air about 40 miles west of Delhi on 12th November, 1996. All the 312 occupants of Saudi Boeing 747 and 37 occupants of Kazakhstan IL-76 aircraft lost their lives. The Saudi Boeing 747 aircraft was on a scheduled passenger flight from Delhi to Dahran and the Kazakhastan aircraft was operating a non-scheduled flight from Chimkent, Kazakhastan to Delhi. After takeoff from Delhi, Delhi Approach had instructed the Saudi Boeing 747 aircraft to climb and maintain FL-140 (14,000 feet). The Kazakhastan aircraft had been instructed by Delhi Approach to descend and maintain FL-150 (15,000 feet). Suddenly at 1840 hours the blips of the two aircraft disappeared from the radar screen, as the two aircraft had collided. There was no casualty on the ground. The wreckage of Saudi Boeing 747 aircraft fell near village Dhani in Bhiwani District of Haryana and that of Kazakhastan IL-76 aircraft was lying near village Birohar in Rohtak District. Standing crops at the site of accident were damaged due to fire, impact and rescue operations. Ahmedabad airport resumes operations after brief shutdown following Air India flight crash July 11, 1996 Archana Airways L-410 aircraft VT-ETC was operating flight on Delhi-Shimla-Bhunter- Delhi sector on 11.07.96. The flight upto Shimla was unenventful. The aircraft took-off from Shimla with 9 persons including three flight crew members. At 0855 hrs. aircraft hit and crashed into a hill and caught fire near Kanda village. The Aircraft was totally destroyed and all the persons on board received fatal injuries and three persons on ground have also suffered injuries. May 18, 1996 Archana Airways L-410 aircraft VT-ETB was operating a scheduled flight from Delhi to Kanpur civil aerodrome on 18.05.96. The flight from Delhi to Kanpur was uneventful. The aircraft took-off from Delhi with 19 persons including three light crew. During landing, the aircraft touched down late and could not be stopped within the available runway length and went beyond the runway. The aircraft hit the boundary wall of the airport and came to halt. The aircraft sustained major damages. There was no fire and no injury to persons on board the aircraft. December 2, 1995 Indian Airlines B-737 aircraft VT-ECS was operating flight IC-492 of 2.12.95 under the command of Capt. Adil Mistry with co-pilot Sandeep Marwah and four cabin crew. The flight upto Jaipur was uneventful. Aircraft took-off from Jaipur with 98+4 passengers. Aircraft landed at Delhi at 1253 hrs. After landing the aircraft could not be stopped within the available runway length and went beyond the runway into kutcha. The aircraft was substantially damaged. There was minor fire. Six passengers received minor injuries. July 1, 1995 East West F-27 aircraft was engaged in a training flight at Baroda airport on 1.7.1995. The aircraft was under the command of an Examiner pilot with the trainee pilot on right hand seat. The first touch and go exercise was uneventful. During the second exercise, immediately on touchdown the left main landing gear failed at its shock strut outer cylinder and the inner cylinder with the main wheel assembly attached to it got liberated. The aircraft continued moving forward with the remaining portion of left shock strut contacting the runway followed by the left engine propellers and fuselage bottom and finally came to rest on the runway left side strip. There was no fire and no injury to persons on board the aircraft. The aircraft sustained substantial damage. December 17, 1994 Indian Airlines A-320 aircraft VT-EPM was operating a scheduled flight from Madras to Hyderabad on 17.12.1994. The aircraft was under the command of Capt. C.J. Bhoopal with Capt. Sree Nair as First Officer. In all there were 144 persons on board the aircraft. After reaching over Hyderabad airfield, the aircraft did normal descent and was cleared for VOR DME approach for Runway 09. Aftertouchdown when the aircraft was rolling, it was hit by an unauthorised outsider on moped, who was attempting to cross the runway. The aircraft continued rolling with normal braking. The moped rider died on the spot and his body was ragmented into pieces and scattered all over the runway. Aircraft sustained slight damage. November 15, 1993 Indian Airlines Airbus A-300 aircraft VT-EDV was operating scheduled flight IC-440 (Madras- Hyderabad sector) on 15.11.1993. There were a total of 262 persons were on board the aircraft including 247+3 passengers and 12 crew members. The aircraft could not land at Hyderabad due to low visibility and carried out a missed approach. After the missed approach, the aircraft reported Flap Problem and was holding overhead at Hyderabad during which the flight crew enquired visibility at nearby Air Force airfields which was also low. The aircraft then diverted to Madras. Due to flaps problem, the crew had to maintain low speed and low altitude as a result of which it experienced fuel shortage and sought permission from Madras control for landing at Tirupati. However, the aircraft could not reach even Tirupati airport and executed forced landing in an open paddy field about 14 nautical miles from Tirupati airport. The aircraft dragged on the soft paddy field before coming to final stop. There was no fire. Passenger evacuation was carried out by means of escape slides. All the persons on board escaped unhurt except four who received minor injuries. April 26, 1993 Indian Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft VT-ECQ was operating scheduled flight IC-491 from Delhi- Jaipur-Udaipur-Aurangabad-Bombay on 26.4.1993. The flight from Delhi to Aurangabad was uneventful. The aircraft took-off from Aurangabad with 118 persons on board. Aircraft lifted up almost at the end of runway and impacted heavily with a lorry carrying pressed cotton bales running from North to South on a highway at a distance of about 410 feet from the end of runway. The aircraft left main landing gear, left engine bottom cowling and thrust reverser impacted the left side of the truck at a height of nearly seven feet from the level of the road. Thereafter the aircraft hit the high tension electric wires nearly 3 kms North-East of the runway and hit the ground. In all 55 persons received fatal injuries. The aircraft was destroyed due to post impact fire. January 9, 1993 On 9th January, 1993 TU-154 aircraft No. 85533 wet leased by Indian Airlines from Uzbekistan Airways was operating flight IC-840 from Hyderabad to Delhi. The aircraft was being flown by Uzbeki operating crew and there were 165 persons on board including the crew. The aircraft touched down slightly outside the right edge of the runway, collided with some fixed installations on the ground, got airborne once again and finally touched down on kutcha ground on the right side of the runway. At this stage the right wing and the tail of the aircraft broke away and it came to rest in an inverted position. During the process, the aircraft caught fire and was destroyed. Most occupants of the aircraft escaped unhurt. Six persons suffered either limb fracture or other serious injuries while 45 persons suffered injuries of a minor nature. Boeing stock tumbles over 7% in pre-market following Air India crash September 4, 1992 Indian Airlines B-737 aircraft VT-EGJ was operating scheduled flight IC-493 (Udaipur-Bombay sector) on 4.9.92. During take-off roll, the aircraft hit an Aerodrome Attendant (Chowkidar) on the runway centerline, who received fatal injuries. The aircraft continued with the take-off roll, got airborne and subsequently landed uneventfully at its destination Bombay. January 10, 1992 Air Lanka B-737 aircraft was engaged in a Scheduled International Passenger flight from Colombo to Madras on 10.1.1992. During landing on Runway 07 at Madras airport, the right landing gear attachment failed and right engine bottom contacting runway surface immediately on touchdown. The aircraft started swerving towards the right of runway center line as it moved forward on its wheels with right engine cowling and bottom rubbing the runway surface. The aircraft finally came to stop with its nose wheel and failed right main landing gear entering the grassy side strip soon after crossing the Delta taxiway. The fire emanating from the right engine was extinguished by the Safety Services and the crew and passengers evacuated the aircraft through the left side exit doors by means of the slide chutes. August 16, 1991 Indian Airlines Boeing 737 aircraft VT-EFL while operating flight IC-257 (Calcutta-Imphal) on 16.8.91 crashed about 20 nautical miles from the Imphal airport. The aircraft had earlier taken off from Calcutta at 0615 hrs UTC and it lost contact with Imphal airport at 0716 hrs UTC at approximately 5000 feet on ILS. The aircraft was under the command of Capt. Shekhar Haldar with Capt. D.B. Roychoudhary as First Officer. There were a total of 68+1 persons on board the aircraft including crewmembers. All the 69 persons died in the accident. The aircraft was completely destroyed. May 7, 1990 Air India Boeing 747 aircraft VT-EBO was operating flight AI-132 (London-Delhi-Bombay). During landing at Delhi Airport, on 7.5.1990, its left outboard engine (No. 1 Engine) partially separated from its wing attachment and consequently left wing caught fire which was quickly extinguished by the Airport Safety Services. The passengers were safely evacuated through slide chutes. The left wing of the aircraft was substantially damaged. February 14, 1990 Indian Airlines Airbus A-320 aircraft VT-EPN was operating Bombay-Bangalore sector on 14.2.1990. The aircraft took off from Bombay at 11:58 hours. There were 146 persons on board which included the two cockpit crew, five cabin crew, and four infants. The flight from Bombay to Bangalore was uneventful. During the final approach to Runway 09 at Bangalore the aircraft first contacted ground within the boundary of the Karnataka Golf Association approximately 2300 ft. prior to the beginning of Runway 09. The aircraft went up into the air for a very short duration after which it again contacted the ground on all three gears and then hit an embankment at the boundary of the golf course. The aircraft finally came to rest outside the boundary wall of the airport. The aircraft was destroyed due to impact and fire. In all 92 persons on board including two pilots and two cabin crew died in the accident.
Punjab Influencer Found Dead In Car; CCTV Footage Shows Man Parking Vehicle | Video
Kamal is a resident of Ludhiana's Laxman Nagar. Investigations revealed that the vehicle where her body was discovered is registered in her own name.
Who Was Kamal Kaur 'Bhabhi', Instagram Influencer Found Dead In Car In Bathinda?
Kaur, a resident of Ludhiana, had more than 3.8 lakh followers on social media and had allegedly received threats from Khalistani terrorist Arsh Dalla
Who was Kamal Kaur? Ludhiana-based social media influencer found dead in her car in Bathinda
A post-mortem examination is scheduled for Thursday to ascertain the cause of death.
BJP confident of big win in Ludhiana West Bypoll: Bali Bhagat
Excelsior Correspondent LUDHIANA, June 11: Senior BJP leader and former J&K Minister Bali Bhagat today expressed confidence that the Ludhiana West Assembly segment will vote overwhelmingly for change, accountability, and development in the June 19 bypoll. He was speaking after a high-level strategy meeting held in the constituency. Bhagat, who is among BJPs national star campaigners for the by-election, said the partys candidate Jeewan Gupta enjoys strong public support due to his clean image and deep grassroots connect. He claimed [] The post BJP confident of big win in Ludhiana West Bypoll: Bali Bhagat appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Delhi is grappling with an intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring to 43.8C, prompting an orange alert from the IMD. Rajasthan faces even more extreme conditions, with Ganganagar exceeding 47C and a red alert issued. The heatwave extends across North India, impacting Ludhiana and even elevating temperatures in Himachal Pradesh, signaling a widespread regional crisis.
Newlywed Husband Kills Wife After 'Discovering Her Previous Marriage' In Ludhiana, On The Run
The police said that the victim wife was already married before her wedding with the accused, but had kept it a secret from him. Her body was found in her flat in Ludhiana.
Dead Lizard In Ice-Cream Angers Locals In Ludhiana, Health Officials To Examine Samples
A lizard was found in a Choco Bar kulfi bought by a seven-year-old in Ludhiana. The vendor, Milk Bell, denied responsibility. Health officials will test the samples.
