121 farmers end their fast-unto-death at Khanauri border as Dallewal takes medical aid

CHANDIGARH: A group of 121 farmers, who sat on a fast-unto-death at the Khanauri protest site in solidarity with farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, ended their indefinite hunger strike today after he took medical aid. But Dallewal would not end his fast until the law for legal guarantee to minimum support price (MSP) for crops is enacted. Meanwhile, Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) the umbrella body of the farmers union that spearheaded the 2020-21 farmers' protest has decided to send out a memorandum to Members of Parliament (MP) instead of holding a protest outside their offices on January 20 and it will focus on the republic day (January 26) tractor rally and its general body meeting called on January 24 at Delhi where further programs and action plans shall be announced. The farmers ended their fast by sipping juice in the presence of Deputy Inspector General of Police Mandeep Sidhu and Patiala Senior Superintendent of Police Nanak Singh. Farmer leaders, however, said Dallewal would not end his fast until a legal guarantee to minimum support price for crops is given. With his health deteriorating and the central government not agreeing to their demands, a group of 111 farmers joined Dallewal's fast-unto-death on January 15 and sat on the Haryana side of the border near Khanauri. On January 17, 10 more farmers, who were from Haryana, joined them. The 70-year-old Dallewal who has refused any aid since he sat on a fast-unto-death on November 26, agreed on Saturday to take medical aid following the Centre's invitation for talks on February 14 to discuss farmers' demands. The SKM welcomed the decision of fasting farmer leader Dallewal to receive medical support and wished him a quick recovery and good health. The continuous efforts made by SKM leaders for farmers' unity and Pan India agitation against the anti-farmer Union Government has forced the centre to retract from its divisive strategy, the farmer leader added. The SKM leadership called upon all farmers to respond and rise in protest against the centre and force it to roll back its anti-farmer policies, which were earlier attempted to be imposed through the three now repealed agriculture laws but now again an attempt is being made to impose these laws through the so-called National Policy Framework on Agricultural Marketing (NPFAM), which is nothing but a plan to handover to a few crony corporates control of agricultural land, agriculture, food supply chain, and food security of the nation.

121 farmers end fast-unto-death after Dallewal take medical aid

The 121 farmers ended their fast by sipping juice in the presence of Deputy Inspector General of Police Mandeep Singh Sidhu and Patiala Senior Superintendent of Police Nanak Singh.

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Kangana Ranauts Emergency faces SGPC protest, halted across Punjab

Mumbai: Filmmaker-actress Kangana Ranauts latest release Emergency has once again faced a road-block as it has been halted in Patiala, Amritsar and Bathinda amid fear of protests. Protests are taking place across Punjab. Different leaders of Sikh organizations including The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) have asked for ban on Emergencyas they claim the film []

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

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

Complete harassment of art and the artist: Kangana after SGPC calls for ban on Emergency

New Delhi, Jan 17: Bollywood star Kangana Ranaut on Friday said the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committees (SGPC) demand for a ban on Emergency and the films restricted screenings in parts of Punjab is a complete harassment of art and the artist. On Thursday, SGPC chief Harjinder Singh Dhami wrote to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann demanding a ban on the movie, which released across the country on Friday. Many cinemas in Ludhiana, Amritsar, Patiala and Bathinda did not screen Emergency [] The post Complete harassment of art and the artist: Kangana after SGPC calls for ban on Emergency appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

On Dallewal's 51st day of protest, 111 farmers start fast unto death

CHANDIGARH: Wearing black clothes and placards around their necks stating, in Punjabi, 'We will attain martyrdom before Jagjit Singh Dallewal ', a group of 111 farmers started their fast-unto-death in support of Dallewal at Khanauri border on Wednesday. The farmers have taken up the protest to further intensify their stir against the Union Government for enacting a law for legal guarantee on Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops and other demands. The group of farmers started their fast-unto-death after holding prayers as they moved towards Haryana. Then they cut barbed wire and sat on the road. Haryana police have deployed heavy security at the border on the Haryana side. The farmers are emotional and believe that they will sacrifice themselves before Dallewal to support the farmers' cause. The protestors will be given only water from now on and housed in a tent to protect them from the cold. Farmer leader said that Dallewal's condition is worsening as his body is not accepting water and is moving towards multi-organ failure. He has refused to take medical aid despite prolonged fasting, causing his health to decline. Doctors attending to Dallewal said his health is deteriorating every day as his ketone level is on the higher side and muscle mass has decreased. Lashing out against the Centre, farmer leader Abhimanyu Kohar, said, 'the Union government is not paying heed to farmers demands. Today, Dallewals fast-unto-death entered day 51. The Centre is neither ready to listen to anything nor is it initiating talks nor fulfilling our demands. Farmers are emotional and they have said that they will also follow Dallewal and start an indefinite fast peacefully. On the status of Dallewals health, Kohar said it is critical because of the indefinite fast. Dallewal, who is the convener of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political), has been fasting at the Khanauri border between Punjab and Haryana since November 26 last year over the farmers' various demands including seeking a legal guarantee on MSP for crops. The medical teams of Rajindra Medical College and Mata Kaushalya Hospital, Patiala, have been deployed by the Punjab government for the continuous care of the health of the farmer leader. A makeshift hospital with all emergency medicines and equipment has also been set up near the protest site. SC seeks farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal's health reports to get AIIMS medical board's opinion The protesting farmers had earlier said if anything untoward happens to Dallewal, the Centre might not be able to handle what comes afterwards. When asked about holding talks with the protesting farmers to end the logjam, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan recently said the government would act in accordance with the Supreme Courts instructions.

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Secunderabad Marks Guru Gobind Singhs 358th Prakash Purab

Hyderabad: The 358th Prakash Purab celebrations of Sri Guru Gobind Singhji, the tenth Sikh Guru, concluded on Sunday after grand celebrations. Prayers and hymns at Classic Gardens, Balamrai, Secunderabad, organised by the Prabhandak Committee of Gurdwara Saheb Secunderabad, marked the event. The Vishaal Deewan began at 11 am, and continued till 3.30 pm. The programme featured recitations of Gurbani Keertans and Kathas by renowned Ragi Jathas, including Bhai Sarabjeet Singh (Patna Saheb), Bhai Jaskaran Singh (Patiala), and Gyani Jagdev Singh. They emphasised Guru Gobind Singhjis teachings of peace, communal harmony, and protection of the weak. Committee president S. Baldev Singh Bagga, general secretary S. Jagmohan Singh, and vice-president S. Harpreet Singh Gulati highlighted the Gurus message of unity, brotherhood, and national integration. After the prayers, devotees were served the traditional Guru-Ka-Langar, promoting equality and togetherness. The event concluded on a harmonious note, with devotees urged to follow the Gurus teachings in todays challenging times.

SKM to hold crucial meeting after 80-year-old farmer's death at Khanauri border

CHANDIGARH: An 80-year-old farmer, Jaga Singh, from Godara village in Faridkot district, succumbed to the cold wave at the Khanauri border on Saturday. Singh, who had been part of the ongoing farmers' agitation for the past ten months, was rushed to Rajindra Government Medical College, Patiala, where he passed away. He is survived by his son and daughters. Confirming the incident, Senior SKM leader Prem Singh Bhangu said, The meeting has been fixed for tomorrow between the SKM, SKM (Non-Political), and the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Morcha. It will be held at Patran. A six-member delegation from the SKM will participate and hold discussions with the leaders of the other two farmers' organisations. He expressed hope for a positive outcome. The six-member SKM delegation includes farmer leaders Balbir Singh Rajewal, Darshan Pal, Joginder Singh Ugrahan, Raminder Singh Patiala, Jangveer Singh, and Krishna Prasad. The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM), which led the 2020 agitation against the now-repealed farm laws, has not been part of the current agitation being spearheaded by SKM (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Morcha. Condition of Dallewal critical with looming threat of cardiac arrest, says doctors A leader from SKM (Non-Political) shared a similar sentiment, stating, The meeting is fixed for tomorrow. Today, we held our own forms meeting and also consulted with the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Morcha to finalise the delegation that will meet the SKM leadership tomorrow. Meanwhile, the fast-unto-death protest by farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal entered its 48th day on Saturday. Leaders of the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Morcha and SKM (Non-Political) had earlier urged the SKM leadership to advance the meeting scheduled for 15 January. They proposed holding it at the Khanauri border instead of Patiala, citing the urgency of the situation. Each and every minute is very important, emphasised the leaders during their appeal. Adding to the discourse, former cricketer and AAP Rajya Sabha MP Harbhajan Singh took to X on Saturday, urging immediate resolution. Keeping in mind the health of farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, I request all those who can resolve this issue, as every issue can be resolved through dialogue. Saving the farmer and farming should be our priority, he wrote. Farmers and their leaders are hopeful that todays meeting will bridge the differences between the factions and strengthen their collective stand against the union government. , l pic.twitter.com/bNDtzjm8YI Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) January 11, 2025 'My life not as important as yours': Dallewal tells farmers as Punjab urges Centre to hold talks with protesters

80-year-old farmer dies amid cold wave, farmers' groups to hold crucial meeting

CHANDIGARH: An 80-year-old farmer, Jaga Singh, from Godara village in Faridkot district, succumbed to the cold wave at the Khanauri border on Saturday. Singh, who had been part of the ongoing farmers' agitation for the past ten months, was rushed to Rajindra Government Medical College, Patiala, where he passed away. He is survived by his son and daughters. Confirming the incident, Senior SKM leader Prem Singh Bhangu said, The meeting has been fixed for tomorrow between the SKM, SKM (Non-Political), and the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Morcha. It will be held at Patran. A six-member delegation from the SKM will participate and hold discussions with the leaders of the other two farmers' organisations. He expressed hope for a positive outcome. The six-member SKM delegation includes farmer leaders Balbir Singh Rajewal, Darshan Pal, Joginder Singh Ugrahan, Raminder Singh Patiala, Jangveer Singh, and Krishna Prasad. The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM), which led the 2020 agitation against the now-repealed farm laws, has not been part of the current agitation being spearheaded by SKM (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Morcha. Condition of Dallewal critical with looming threat of cardiac arrest, says doctors A leader from SKM (Non-Political) shared a similar sentiment, stating, The meeting is fixed for tomorrow. Today, we held our own forms meeting and also consulted with the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Morcha to finalise the delegation that will meet the SKM leadership tomorrow. Meanwhile, the fast-unto-death protest by farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal entered its 48th day on Saturday. Leaders of the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Morcha and SKM (Non-Political) had earlier urged the SKM leadership to advance the meeting scheduled for 15 January. They proposed holding it at the Khanauri border instead of Patiala, citing the urgency of the situation. Each and every minute is very important, emphasised the leaders during their appeal. Adding to the discourse, former cricketer and AAP Rajya Sabha MP Harbhajan Singh took to X on Saturday, urging immediate resolution. Keeping in mind the health of farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, I request all those who can resolve this issue, as every issue can be resolved through dialogue. Saving the farmer and farming should be our priority, he wrote. Farmers and their leaders are hopeful that todays meeting will bridge the differences between the factions and strengthen their collective stand against the union government. , l pic.twitter.com/bNDtzjm8YI Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) January 11, 2025 'My life not as important as yours': Dallewal tells farmers as Punjab urges Centre to hold talks with protesters

Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal's health deteriorates on 47th day of hunger strike

CHANDIGARH: As the fast-unto-death by farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal entered its 47th day, his health has worsened significantly , with low blood pressure, fluctuating vitals, and the looming threat of cardiac arrest. Leaders of the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Morcha and the SKM (Non-Political) have urged the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) leadership to bring forward their scheduled meeting from 15 January to tomorrow or the day after, proposing that it be held at the Khanauri border instead of Patiala. Each and every minute is very important, they emphasised. Dallewal's ketone and uric acid levels are alarmingly high, while his potassium, sodium, chloride, and protein levels have plummeted. Speaking to this newspaper, Dr Avtar Singh, heading the medical team at the Khanauri border, said: The condition of Dallewal is critical as his potassium and sodium levels are low and dropping because he is not consuming anything other than water. A drop in sodium levels causes dizziness and difficulty in concentration. His muscle mass has decreased manifold, and he has become like a skeleton. Day by day, his condition is worsening, and his overall health parameters are not good. Now, due to the cold weather, we are keeping our fingers crossed as he is lying in the tractor trolley in such biting cold conditions. Anything can happen at any time. Dr Singh added: Now he cannot even sit, so we cannot measure his weight as it is impossible for him to stand. If we try to make him sit for a couple of minutes, his blood pressure drops. His blood pressure is usually around 90. To stabilise it, his legs must be kept elevated. If the pillow supporting his feet is removed, his blood pressure drops further. The pressure stabilises only when his legs are elevated to improve blood flow to the heart and brain. When he lies flat, his blood pressure falls below 90. His vitals are fluctuating, and cardiac arrest can occur at any time. He further noted: The pillows under his feet are adjusted to find the optimal height for stability. Even so, he still needs support. He is unable to speak now. He has refused to take any medicine, and we cannot put a drip. SKM (Non-Political) leader Abhimanyu Kohar shared the latest medical reports, saying: The tests conducted on Thursday indicate that Dallewal's condition is not at all good. The results are alarming. His uric acid level, which should be between 3.50 and 7.20, is more than 11.64. His protein levels are very low, and his ketone levels, which should be between 0.02 and 0.27, are more than 6.53some 25 to 30 times higher. His direct bilirubin level is 0.69, whereas it should be less than 0.20. The liver and kidney panel serum result is 1.67, which should be below 1.00. Additionally, his chloride, potassium, and sodium levels are low. Akal Takht expresses concern over Dallewal's deteriorating health Another leader, Surjit Singh, said: The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) leadership had requested our Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Morcha and SKM (Non-Political) leaders to attend the meeting on 15 January at Patiala. They came to the Khanauri morcha yesterday to meet Dallewal and called for unity. We are requesting the SKM leaders to come to the Khanauri morcha tomorrow or the day after and hold discussions here, as Dallewals health is deteriorating day by day. Every minute is crucial, and we cannot leave the morcha to go to another place for the meeting. We have sent a letter to the SKM leadership in this regard. We hope these leaders will help further strengthen and expand the ongoing movement for the 13 demands, including the MSP guarantee law. A medical team from Rajindra Medical College and Mata Kaushalya Hospital, Patiala, is deployed at Khanauri to continuously monitor Dallewal's health. Two advanced life support ambulances are stationed there around the clock. A temporary hospital equipped with emergency equipment and medicines has been set up 700 metres from the protest site. Additionally, tractor-trailers have been welded together at the protest site, where over 700 volunteers maintain a night vigil near the area where Dallewal is fasting. On Thursday, a high-level team of doctors, led by Punjabs Principal Secretary of Health, Kumar Rahul, visited Khanauri to examine Dallewal. They took blood samples and performed an abdominal ultrasound.

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Sikhs gear up for 358th Prakash Purab in Hyd

Hyderabad: The Sikh community is gearing up to celebrate the birth anniversary of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth and last Sikh Guru and founder of the Khalsa Panth, on Sunday. The 358th Prakash Purab will be observed worldwide, with the city hosting a grand Vishaal Deewan (Mass Congregation). The event, organised by the Prabandhak Committee of Gurdwara Saheb Secunderabad, will take place at Classic Garden, Balanagaram, Secunderabad, from 10 am to 3 pm on January 12. Organisers announced that the Vishaal Deewan will bring together hundreds of Sikh devotees and members of other faith communities for a day of reverence and unity. The congregation will feature recitations of Gurbani Keertans (Holy Hymns) performed by renowned Ragi Jathas (religious preachers) invited from various parts of the country. Esteemed Ragi Jathas, including Bhai Sarabjeet Singh (Patna Saheb), Bhai Jaskaran Singh (Patiala), Gyani Jagdev Singh, and Bhai Charanjeet Singh, will lead the shabad keertans and kathas, shedding light on the teachings of the Sikh Gurus. In addition to the spiritual programmes, Guru Ka Langar (free community kitchen) will be served to all devotees. The Guru Ka Langar will provide nutritious meals to attendees. Reflecting on his legacy, organisers emphasised that Guru Gobind Singh Ji sacrificed his life and family to protect the weak and oppressed, ultimately liberating the country from invaders. His unwavering commitment to justice and righteousness continues to inspire millions. A Night Kirtan Darbar will also be held at Gurdwara Saheb in Secunderabad on January 11 from 7 pm to 10 pm. During this evening event, the Ragi Jathas will perform shabad kirtans and kathas, followed by Guru Ka Langar, providing a serene and reflective close to the days festivities.

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Farm leader Dallewal asks political parties to clarify their stance on legal MSP

CHANDIGARH: As the fast-unto-death protest by farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal entered its 45th day on January 9, he wrote a letter to all political parties urging them to clarify their stance on the legal right to minimum support price (MSP). Dallewal requested that they set aside their differences and unite on the issue of MSP to help prevent farmers' suicides. In his letter addressed to the presidents of all political parties, Dallewal stated that his fast-unto-death protest has been ongoing for 45 days, demanding an MSP guarantee law. He emphasised that his health is worsening and urged the political parties to take a clear position on the legal right to MSP. While reiterating that the farmers forum is non-political, he stressed the need for political parties support to pressure the Central Government into addressing their demands. Dallewal also pointed out that the Standing Committee on Agriculture in Parliament has recommended enacting an MSP guarantee law, highlighting its potential benefits for farmers. Understanding the gravity of the situation, all political parties should set aside their differences and unite on the issue of the MSP guarantee law so that farmers' suicides can be prevented, he added. Responding to a letter from the BJP to the Akal Takht Jathedar requesting intervention to end Dallewals fast-unto-death, he slammed the saffron partys approach. He questioned why, if the BJP is genuinely concerned about his health, it has not pushed for discussions with the Centre to address the matter. Farmer leader Abhimanyu Kohad also slammed the Union Government, calling its approach inhumane. The democratically elected government should listen to everyone, Kohad stated. Meanwhile, a team of government doctors, accompanied by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Patiala Nanak Singh, visited the Khanauri border to monitor Dallewals condition. Various tests, including an ultrasound, were conducted, and blood samples were collected. The doctors assured that the test reports would be available by Friday as the Supreme Court is scheduled to hear the matter on Friday. They expressed concern over Dallewals worsening condition, describing it as a serious cause for alarm. 'My life not as important as yours': Dallewal tells farmers as Punjab urges Centre to hold talks with protesters

Protesting farmer consumes poison at Shambhu border, dies at Patiala hospital

A 55-year-old farmer, Resham Singh, committed suicide by consuming poison at the Shambhu border amid ongoing protests against the Central government. This incident follows a similar suicide by Ranjodh Singh on December 18, driven by deteriorating health conditions of farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal.

Farmer attempts to end life at Shambhu border, dies at Patiala hospital

This is second such incident at the agitation site at the Shambhu border pointwithin three weeks

Farmer attempts suicide at Shambhu border, dies at Patiala hospital

A 55-year-old farmer at the Shambhu border between Punjab and Haryana, protesting for almost a year for MSP guarantees, committed suicide by consuming poison. This incident marks the second suicide at the site in three weeks. Another farmer previously ended his life, distressed over an unresolved farmer leader's health condition.

Dense fog at many places in Punjab, Haryana; no respite from cold conditions

In Punjab, dense fog reduced visibility to zero in Amritsar, Met officials said. In Ludhiana and Patiala, the visibility was only 20 metres and 10 metres, respectively

Akal Takht expresses concern over Dallewal's deteriorating health

CHANDIGARH: The Akal Takht (highest temporal body of Sikhs) has expressed concern over the deteriorating health of farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal who is on a fast-unto-death at the Khanauri border (Punjab-Haryana border) demanding a legal guarantee for minimum support prices (MSP) and other demands that were yet to be fulfilled by the Union Government. On January 10, effigies of the government will be burnt, on January 13 copies of the new agricultural policy will be burnt and on January 26 tractor march. Akal Takht Jathedar (High Priest) Giani Raghbir Singh yesterday said that the concept of hunger strike had no place in Sikh traditions and it was highly condemnable that the anndata - referring to the farming community - had to go on fast for the sake of fellow farmers. He urged the government to adhere to the rightful demands of farmers so that they could return to their homes peacefully. Despite mounting health risks, the 70-year-old dallewal refused medical aid even after multiple interventions from the Punjab Government. Meanwhile hours after the Supreme Court-appointed high-powered committee met Dallewal his health deteriorated on Monday night. The blood pressure of Dallewal suddenly dropped. His hand and feet were rubbed by a medical team to keep him warm, while the blood pressure monitor showed a reading of 77/45 and his pulse rate falling below 38. Dallewal, whose fast entered 43rd day today had told the committee members that farm reforms are his priority, while his life and health is secondary . The doctors attending him stated that when Dallewals body was slightly lifted, his blood pressure became somewhat stable, otherwise, both his blood pressure and pulse rate would continue to drop significantly. After some time his blood pressure slightly stabilised at 95/70. Dallewal's condition remained critical throughout the day, and he was unable to speak with anyone. Farmer leaders expressed concern that if any unfortunate event were to happen to Dallewal the situation arising afterwards might be beyond the central governments control. Therefore, they urged the central government to address the issues of the farmers seriously and promptly. Farmer leaders also stated that on January 10, effigies of the Modi government will be burned across the country to show the central government that people in the villages stand with Dallewal in his struggle for a guaranteed MSP law. Also on January 13, copies of the new agricultural policy's provisions related to the land should be burned across the country. Farmer leaders further announced that on January 26, a tractor march will take to the streets across the country and in the coming days a detailed plan for this program will be announced by both morchas. A member of the health team, said that the health department team from Patiala, who are on the standby, has taken over the charge. The situation is under control and the health team is monitoring the farmer leader's condition, he added. Meanwhile, the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) said the union government as well as the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) party-led Punjab government were equally responsible for the deepening agriculture crisis in the country. It appealed to both governments to engage with farmers and do their utmost to save the life of Dallewal. Senior SAD leader Dr Daljit Singh Cheema said it was shocking that even though the Supreme Court was monitoring the fast unto death almost of a daily basis, both the union government as well as the Punjab government were resorting to a blame game and playing politics on such a sensitive issue. Efforts are also on to polarize the entire issue which is condemnable and could be dangerous for the state. Cheema appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take the lead and create an atmosphere that could lead to the end of Dallewals fast. For this to take place the Prime Minister should notify the guarantee on Minimum Support Price (MSP) immediately. This is in keeping with the assurance made to the people of the country when the Prime Minister withdrew the three agricultural laws which led to the end of the farmers protest. The union government should also withdraw the draft agriculture policy as farmers felt many clauses contained in the three agricultural laws were being reintroduced in the policy through the back door, he said.

Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewals health deteriorates

CHANDIGARH: Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewals health deteriorated after his 11-minute address on January 4 at the Kisan Mahapanchayat in Khanauri. He has been experiencing vomiting and feeling dizzy. Besides, his reflexes have slowed down. The medical team attending the farmer leader stated that he felt dizzy and vomited as his blood pressure dropped while he was carried back to his tent after yesterday's address. Dr Avtar Singh Dhillon said that he was concerned about Dallewals health. Dallewal was suggested not go to the stage as the weather was too harsh but he insisted on addressing the gathering and spoke for about eleven minutes. After coming back, he was offered water but he vomited, a doctor said. 'My life not as important as yours': Dallewal tells farmers as Punjab urges Centre to hold talks with protesters He could hardly sleep and his reflexes have slowed down. His blood pressure was 108/73 today while his peripheral oxygen saturation level was 98. The respiratory rate was 18 per minute and the heart rate was 73. He is not taking any drip, he added. A team of government doctors and officials visited Khanauri border to enquire about Dallewal's health this evening. On receiving information about his deteriorating health, former DIG Narinder Bhargav and Senior Superintendent of Police, Patiala Dr Nanak Singh, the officials involved in backchannel talks with the farmer leader, rushed to Khanauri border. Farmers protest: SC clarifies its order for Dallewal's hospitalisation was not to break his fast As the fast-up-to-death of the farmer leader entered its 41st day today, the medical bulletin stated that Dallewal is facing liver, kidney, and lung issues. The bulletin further added that even if he ends the fast, the risk of his organs not functioning 100 per cent persists. The doctors explained that it is difficult to measure his weight as he has been unable to stand properly for the past few days. They further stated that his muscle mass has completely deteriorated and it is likely that he may never fully recover. The bulletin also added that his glomerular filtration rate has decreased, affecting his blood filtration capacity. Since last evening, Dallewal has been experiencing frequent vomiting creating considerable distress. He is not even able to speak today. However, farmer leaders mentioned that the thousands of people who reached Khonori Morcha yesterday have given new energy to Dallewal. Dallewal had agreed to undergo blood, urine and ECG tests on Friday evening before the Kisan Maha Panchayat. During his 11-minute address, Dallewal appealed to farmer outfits in other states to launch a similar fight for the MSP on order to send a message to the Centre that it was not just Punjabs struggle. This is a do-or-die battle. I will not end my fast till an Act guaranteeing the MSP for crops is enacted. We want a legal guarantee as per the recommendations of the parliamentary committee (on agriculture), Dallewal had said yesterday. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher said Gurpurab celebrations for Guru Gobind Singh will be held at the Shambhu border on Monday and appealed to the masses to participate in it. Sukhmander Singh, 54, from Kasam Patti village in Faridkot district passed away after being hit by a vehicle at the Shambhu border protest site.He was taken to Rajpura Civil Hospital but succumbed to his injuries. More than 30 farmers have died at Shambhu and Khanauri borders since February 13 last year.

Here's why Diljit Dosanjh is in the news after his New Year's Eve concert

Diljit Dosanjh hit the headlines once again after his New Year's Eve concert in Ludhiana became surrounded by legal controversies. The singer allegedly performed song tracks that promoted alcohol which triggered Punditrao Dharenavar, an Assistant Professor from Chandigarh, to file a complaint. Dharenavar expressed his concern over the impact of such controversial songs on the young minds present in the concert as many minors are among the music lovers who frequently take part in his concert. The Deputy Director of the Women and Child Department, Govt of Punjab issued a formal notice to Ludhiana's District Commissioner asking them to restrict the singer from performing certain songs during his live concerts. The notice, which raised concern about the after-effects of songs promoting alcohol such as 'Patiala Pegg', '5 Tara Theke', and 'Case (Jeeb Vicho Feem Labbiya)', was addressed to the local authorities in Ludhiana. The notice also called for an urgent ban on these songs, even if the singer tweaked or modified the lyrics to make it suitable for the audience. The singer allegedly continued to perform the controversial songs after altering the lyrics, even though he was advised not to perform it as per the warnings issued by various commissions. Dharenavar went on to cite a ruling from the Punjab and Haryana High Court which directed the police to ensure that songs promoting drugs, alcohol or violence are not performed in public events or live concerts. This observation made in 2019 suggested that songs glorifying alcohol and drugs have a detrimental impact on impressionable children. Dharenavar also expressed that he is prepared to take the matter to the Punjab and Haryana High Court if such songs are continued to be performed in Dosanjh's concerts. He also criticised Dosanjh for performing songs wearing pagadi , a traditional headgear. He opined that the pagadi should not be associated with promoting negative values. Such controversies are not new to Diljit Dosanjh as he has previously faced scrutiny in other cities for similar reasons. He received legal notice from the Telangana government for performing songs that promoted alcohol and violence during his concert in Hyderabad in November. His comments on alcohol has also landed him in controversies multiple times. He said he would stop composing songs about alcohol when the government enacts a nationwide ban on liquor. If all the states declare themselves as dry states, I promise I won't sing about alcohol ever again, he said. Despite all the legal complications, Dosanjh continues to shine as his Dil-Luminati tour remains a major success. The Ludhiana show which was announced on December 23 marked the grand finale of Dosanjh's three-month long Dil-Luminati India Tour.

Diljit Dosanjh's New Year concert in Ludhiana faces legal controversy

Singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh's highly anticipated New Year's Eve concert in Ludhiana was overshadowed by a legal controversy following a complaint filed by Punditrao Dharenavar, an assistant professor from Chandigarh. The complaint, lodged ahead of Tuesday night performance, raised concerns about the promotion of alcohol in some of Dosanjh's popular songs. In response to the complaint, the Deputy Director of the Women and Child Department, Government of Punjab, issued a formal notice to Ludhiana's District Commissioner, requesting that authorities prevent the singer from performing certain songs during the live show. The notice specifically called for a ban on songs like 'Patiala Pegg' , '5 Tara Theke' , and 'Case (Jeeb Vicho Feem Labbiya)' , which have been criticized for glorifying alcohol consumption, even if modified with altered lyrics. The complaint referenced previous warnings issued to Dosanjh by various commissions, advising him not to perform these controversial tracks at public events. The concerned authorities have emphasized the need for responsible content, especially in the context of public performances that may influence young audiences. Despite the legal concerns, Dosanjh's concert went ahead as planned, with fans flocking to the venue to celebrate the arrival of the new year. The controversy highlights ongoing debates surrounding the impact of music and entertainment on social issues, including substance abuse. Authorities are expected to review the matter further, as the issue of responsible content in entertainment continues to garner attention across various platforms.

Diljit Dosanjh faces legal action after concert in Ludhiana over alleged pro-alcohol songs

The notice, which was addressed to the local authorities in Ludhiana, specifically calls for a ban on songs that have been accused of promoting alcohol, such as Patiala Pegg, 5 Tara Theke, and Case (Jeeb Vicho Feem Labbiya), even if modified with altered lyrics

Punjab: State-Wide Bandh by Farmers Against Centre on MSP Paralyses Life

New Delhi/Chandigarh: Life was badly hit across Punjab on Monday following a state-wide bandh call given by farmers who have been agitating against the Centre for a legal guarantee of a minimum support price for their crops. Rail and road traffic was crippled and commercial establishments remained shut in many parts of the state. The protesting farmers held dharnas on several roads as part of their bandh call, throwing commuter traffic out of gear. A shutdown call was given over a week ago by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha over the Centre not acting on the farmers demand for a legal guarantee for the MSP. As the indefinite hunger strike of farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal entered its 35th day on Monday, the Supreme Court will on Tuesday examine the Punjab governments measures to provide treatment to the ailing farmer leader. A team of the Punjab government officials on December 29 had attempted to persuade the septuagenarian to take medical aid, but he declined it, fearing use of forces to oust him from the protest site. In a related development, the Supreme Court panel formed under the chairmanship of retired Justice Nawab Singh has invited the SKM for talks on January 3. It is learnt that the farmers outfit has accepted this invitation. The protesting farmers have been camping at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13 after their march to Delhi was stopped by the security forces. A jatha (group) of 101 farmers had attempted to march to Delhi on foot three times between December 6 and 14 but were stopped by security personnel from Haryana. Besides MSP, the farmers are also demanding a debt waiver, pension, no hike in electricity tariffs, withdrawal of police cases, and justice for the victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence. On Monday, the farmers observed a sit-in at Dhareri Jattan toll plaza, which affected vehicular movement on the Patiala-Chandigarh National Highway. At Amritsar's Golden Gate, scores of farmers assembled near the city's entry point. Dharnas were also held in Bathinda's Rampura Phul. In Phagwara, farmers held a dharna near the Sugarmill crossing on NH-44, blocking the roads leading from Phagwara towards Nakodar, Hoshiarpur and Nawanshahr. They also staged a dharna at Behram toll plaza on Phagwara-Banga road. Grain markets also remained shut in several places. Public transport remained off roads at several places, while most private bus operators suspended services, abiding by the bandh call. The band's impact was also seen in some neighbouring areas of the state, including Ambala. Hundreds of daily commuters travelling from Ambala to Chandigarh, Mohali, Patiala and other nearby cities of Punjab were thrown off stride because of the shutdown. Buses took alternate routes to go from Ambala to Chandigarh as they had to cross a stretch of the national highway that passes through Punjab. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher told reporters in Amritsar that their strike received strong support from transporters, employee unions, traders bodies, and religious bodies. Mr Pandher also said that emergency and other essential services were allowed to operate. He said anyone travelling to the airport to catch a flight, anyone going to attend a job interview, or anyone needing to attend a wedding, were also allowed. All establishments remained shut. Punjabis have shown their unity today and they are extending full support, Mr Pandher claimed. The bandh is successful. Train services have been completely suspended and no train is entering Punjab, he said.

Punjab bandh: Farmers block roads at many places, traffic hit on Patiala-Chandigarh NH

CHANDIGARH: Farmers blocked roads at many places across the state on Monday as part of their Punjab bandh call, hamstringing the commuter traffic. A call for a shutdown was given last week by Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha over the Centre not accepting the demands of protesting farmers. The bandh will be observed from 7 am to 4 pm . Farmers observed a sit-in at Dhareri Jattan Toll Plaza which affected vehicular movement on the Patiala-Chandigarh National Highway. At Amritsar's Golden Gate, farmers started to assemble near the city's entry point while in Bathinda's Rampura Phul, they blocked roads. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher on Sunday said though there will be a complete bandh, emergency services will be allowed to operate. The bandh will be observed from 7 am to 4 pm. However, emergency services will remain operational. Anyone travelling to the airport to catch a flight or anyone going to attend a job interview, or anyone needs to attend a wedding... all these things have been kept out of our bandh call, he said. Meanwhile, 70-year-old farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal's hunger strike entered its 35th day on Monday. Dallewal has so far refused medical treatment. Hundreds of farmers have been protesting at the Punjab-Haryana border demanding a legal guarantee of a minimum support price (MSP) for crops. Dallewal had earlier said he would not break his fast until the government agreed to the farmers' demands. The apex court has given the Punjab government time till December 31 to persuade Dallewal to shift to a hospital, granting the state the liberty to seek logistical support from the Centre, if necessary. Farmers, under the banner of SKM (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, have been camping at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13, after their march to Delhi was stopped by security forces. A jatha (group) of 101 farmers attempted to march to Delhi on foot three times between December 6 and 14 but were stopped by security personnel from Haryana. Besides the MSP, farmers are also demanding a debt waiver, pension, no hike in electricity tariffs, withdrawal of police cases, and justice for the victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence. Delhi chalo: Haryana police fire teargas at farmers as they near barricades at Sambhu border

Accidental or not, Manmohan Singh was a transformative PM: Manish Tewari's tribute

History will be kinder to me than the contemporary media or, for that matter, the Opposition in Parliament, Manmohan Singh famously said on January 3, 2014 at the last press conference he addressed before stepping down as Prime Minister after being in office for ten long years. When I look back, Dr Singh has been proved prophetically correct, reminisces Congress MP and former Union minister Manish Tewari, who anchored that last press conference held by PM Singh at the National Media Centre. Tewari served as Minister of Information and Broadcasting from 2012 to 2014 in the UPA 2 government led by Manmohan Singh. It was a cold wintry morning. Dr Singh decided to address a mega press conference and gave a brilliant summation of his ten years as Prime Minister. He gave this prophetic reply to a question posed by a journalist on the contemporary political situation, he said. Why does he think it was prophetically correct? Because eventually, Dr Singh as PM presided over some of the greatest initiatives that India has taken, in the last 24 years. They included the India-US civil nuclear deal on which he staked his government, the passage allowing foreign direct investment into multi-brand retails and remember he stabilized India's great power relationships, said Tewari. The relationship with China and Russia was better than ever before. With China, a record number of border management agreements and economic agreements were signed, he said. The sustained backchannel dialogue with Pakistan during Dr Singh's tenure was one of the highlights of his foreign policy, stressed Tewari. If the four-point formula that emerged from the Manmohan-Musharraf talks had been implemented, the dynamics of South Asia would have been different. So Dr Singh was correct when he said that history will judge him kindly, he said. From a professor next door to a family friend to a political guru, the former PM shared a more-than-five-decade-long relationship with the Congress leader. Dr Singh knew me from the day I was born. He was a neighbour in Punjab University, Chandigarh, and close friends with my parents. His wife and my mother were classmates in Victoria School, Patiala. I had a very long, personal, intimate association with him, said the Chandigarh MP. Reflecting on the personal bond with the former PM, he said Dr Singh always looked upon him fondly, encouraged and guided him. He was a human being par excellence. While the former PM is best remembered for his sterling contributions to economic reforms and building a rights-based architecture, Tewari says that Singhs vision was shaped by his life experiences. Dr Singh possibly intuitively understood what growth and equity meant along his life journey. Gentle and noble colossus: Remembering the exemplary patient that was Dr Manmohan Singh Born in Gah village in present-day Pakistan, Singh came to India with barely a shirt on his back, recollected Tewari. Singh understood the struggles of poverty. From the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) to the Right to Information (RTI) to the National Food Security Act, RTE to the Street Vendors Act, Dr Singh championed the whole architecture of rights, he said. While the erudite, soft-spoken Manmohan Singh often faced barbs from his detractors for being a 'remote-controlled PM', 'silent PM', or lacking a political base, Tewari contested such arguments. As someone who had the privilege of serving in his government, I can say with full conviction that there was nothing wrong with Dr Singh's political instincts. He always brushed off those insinuations with the contempt they deserve. I don't think he required any certificates from anyone, he said. Dr Singh was extremely media friendly and addressed a record number of press conferences, both in India and abroad, Tewari added. On Singh being called an 'accidental prime minister', he said, accidental or not, Manmohan Singh was a transformative prime minister. Dr Singh proved his naysayers wrong by even risking his position as Prime Minister to push the landmark India-US nuclear deal. Dr Singh firmly believed that India must have access to multi-spectrum sources of energy, because if the economy has to grow, power or energy is the biggest requirement. Notwithstanding that, the Congress had only 146 members in the 14th Lok Sabha. He staked his political career, and political equity and ultimately saw the nuclear deal through, said the Congress leader. Was the Congress on the same page as Dr Singh on the economic reforms he undertook in 1991? There are always different points of view. Ultimately, Dr Singh carried the day, he said. They ought to be the biggest tribute to Dr Singh's legacy and the fact that the economic reset of 1991 held the field across so many different administrations in the last 34 years or so. He will be remembered as a leading economic manager who brought all his experience to better the lives of millions of Indians, he said. He had saddled many roles as chief economic adviser, union finance secretary, RBI governor, and deputy chairperson of the Planning Commission, which gave him a unique view of the distinct challenges that India faced economically and strategically, said Tewari. As finance minister in 1991, when he reset the Indian economy in the wake of the great global change, Singh opened the doors of opportunity for millions of young people to have a better life, better careers, and rewarding jobs, he added. AK Antony's tribute | 'Dr Singh was a bold leader; once dreamt of turning Siachen into a garden'

Solidus Techno Power Pvt. Ltd. Expands into Rajasthan with Landmark 29 MWp Solar Project

About Solidus Techno Power Pvt. Ltd. Headquartered in Patiala, Punjab, Solidus Techno Power Pvt. Ltd. is a leading provider of end-to-end solar EPC solutions. From industrial applications to residential energy solutions, Solidus is committed to driving India's renewable energy revolution through cutting-edge technology, innovation, and a customer-first approach.

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

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

A gram panchayat in Punjab to extend financial support to IAS aspirants, MBBS, engineering students

CHANDIGARH: A gram panchayat in Punjab has resolved to financially support candidates appearing for civil services examinations, opting for armed forces or pursuing their MBBS or engineering studies. A resolution towards this extent was passed by the Akrri village panchayat, which has a population of 800 inhabitants. The village is situated in Ghanaur block of Patiala. The newly elected panchayat of the village which has 562 voters met for the first time on Sunday after the Panchayat election and took several decisions in the presence of all the villagers. The sarpanch and panches of the panchayat are all below 40-years of age and have been elected for the first time. Talking with this newspaper, sarpanch of Akrri village 38-year old Jaswinder Singh who is a carpenter by profession said that the panchayat meeting held on December 22 unanimously decided to financially support IAS aspirants and others who was to become a doctor, engineer or join the armed forces. The money spent on the deserving youth will be a one-time investment so that they can continue to help fellow villagers after they achieve something in life thus other youngsters will get inspired from their achievement, he said. The villagers said several girl students were earlier hesitant to approach coaching institutes for preparation but the resolution passed by the newly elected panchayat would help them in a big way. Last year, six girls from the village had topped in various exams. Of them, five were from a poor families, now such bright students will be able to chase their dreams and compete in competitive exams, the villagers said. Besides funding studies, those who bring laurels to the village by participating in sports events at district, state, national and international level will be given financial help and additional facilities, Jaswinder Singh said. To ensure a drug-free village, Singh said, 98 per cent of the youth in the village are not into drugs, if by chance any one gets into this habit the family of that youth can approach the panchayat and we will ensure free de-addiction treatment for the addict at government-sanctioned de-addiction centres. The panchayat has also decided to boycott anyone dealing in drugs inside the village. Singh added that, among other things, the panchayat decided to give Rs 21,000 shagan to the girls of the poor families in the village when they get married. Singh noted that in 2020, land was acquired for the village and thus the panchayat got Rs 52 crores. As of now it has Rs 36 crore in its kitty.

GHMC Staffer Wins Gold in Grappling and Silver in Judo

Hyderabad: Ambika Rani, a GHMC staffer and mother of a three-year-old, has won two national-level medals, a gold in grappling (wrestling) and a silver in judo. The National Grappling (Wrestling) competitions were held in November. She has been selected for international competitions for these disciplines and will train at the National Institute of Sports (NIS) at Patiala. She trains with her father T. Harinath, a judo coach at the NIS. Ambika Rani got the GHMC job as a compassionate appoint in place of her late husband eight months ago. Earlier working in the Engineering wing, she was posted in the sports wing on Monday. She said that her commitment to win medals for the state and the country motivated her. If there is a will to achieve something, it is possible. It is not easy to juggle between work, practice and taking care of my son. But my commitment made it possible, Ambika Rani told Deccan Chronicle. She said she wakes up at 4 am and goes for a one-hour swim after which she practices till 7 am. She hones her techniques for another hour before reporting for work. When I am at work, my mother takes care of son T. Anshit. Once I return from office, I take care of him. There is another two hour practice in the evening, Ambika Rani said.

Day temperatures drop sharply in North India; intense cold wave persists in Kashmir

NEW DELHI: Day temperatures dropped sharply in several areas of Punjab, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh after light rain hit parts of north India on Monday, even as intense cold wave conditions persisted in Kashmir with mercury dipping several degrees below freezing point. In Himachal Pradesh, Shimla and nearby areas also witnessed light snowfall which led to the closure of 30 roads in the state. People in the national capital woke up to a drizzle and fog with the minimum temperature settling at 8.6 degrees Celsius, a notch below the season's average, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The maximum temperatures in Haryana and Punjab witnessed a sharp dip as rain lashed many parts the two states. According to the Met office, Chandigarh, which received light rain during the day, recorded a maximum temperature of 13.7 degrees Celsius, down six notches against normal. In Haryana, Ambala recorded a maximum temperature of 13.2 degrees Celsius, down six notches against normal while Hisar also had a cold day at a high of 14.1 degrees. High altitude areas in Uttarakhand including the famous Himalayan temples received fresh snowfall and icy winds sweeping across the state. Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, Yamunotri and Hemkund Sahib in Garhwal Himalayas and Munsiyari in Kumaon region received fresh snowfall intensifying cold throughout the state. The sky remained overcast throughout the day at many places including Dehradun which also received a drizzle. Mussoorie, Dhanolti and Chakrata also received snowfall, much to the delight of tourists. Temperatures dropped sharply. People were seen sitting around bonfires along the roadside to warm themselves. VIDEO | Severe cold freezes waterfalls in Uttarakhand. Visuals from Chamoli's Niti Valley. (Full video available on PTI Videos- https://t.co/n147TvrpG7 ) pic.twitter.com/DwE2bHFrsj Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 23, 2024 Cold weather conditions also prevailed in Karnal during the day at 13.6 degrees while Sirsa recorded a high of 14.8 degrees. However, minimum temperatures hovered above normal at many places in Haryana including Hisar (10.8 degrees), Rohtak (11.8), and Gurugram (11.4). In Punjab, Patiala braved the chill recording a high of 13 degrees Celsius, which was six notches below normal. Amritsar recorded a maximum of 16.4 degrees while Ludhiana recorded a high of 14.5 degrees. The minimum temperatures at many places in Punjab hovered close to or below normal limits, with Gurdaspur reeling under severe chill at 4 degrees. In Jammu and Kashmir, the weather office asked tourists to follow the advisory issued by the traffic police in view of the sub freezing temperatures and icy conditions over roads of important higher reaches in the Kashmir valley. Snowfall in Himachal brings cheer to tourists, orange alert issued Intense cold wave conditions persisted in the valley leading to the freezing of water supply lines while a thin layer of ice covered the surface of several water bodies. Srinagar recorded a low of minus 3.6 degrees Celsius on Sunday night, rising by nearly four degrees from the previous night, the meteorological office said. Pahalgam, the base camp for annual Amarnath Yatra in South Kashmir, registered a minimum temperature of minus 5 degrees Celsius, almost unchanged from the previous night, it said. The Met office has predicted a dip of two to three degrees in minimum temperatures over the next 48 hours. Shimla, the Himachal capital, on Monday recorded the season's second light snowfall while some other parts of the state received intermittent rain and snow. The nearby tourist spots of Kufri and Narkanda and the higher reaches of Kharapathar, Chaurdhar and Chanshal South portal of the Atal tunnel, and Samdho also received snowfall. Shimla recorded 8 cm of snowfall while Kalpa recorded 7 cm. As GRAP fails, Delhi pollution strategy looks suspect A few areas in Himachal's lower hills received light intermittent rain, the Met office said. The snow led to the closure of 30 roads, including the national highways between Attari and Leh, and Khab Sangam in Kinnaur district and Gramphoo in Lahaul and Spiti district, the State Emergency Operation Centre said. The snowfall brought cheer to tourists, locals and farmers. The Met had forecast rain and snow in the mid and higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh on Monday, Tuesday and Friday and Saturday. The snowfall also brought cheer to apple growers, raising hope for good yields in the upper Shimla region. Tourism stakeholders said the snowfall was also expected to boost footfall. Local hotelier Sushant Nag said occupancy was set to rise as snowfall drew tourists. However, intense cold wave persisted in the lower hills, including Una, Hamirpur, Chamba and Mandi. The Met office issued an 'orange' warning for severe cold in Bilaspur, Una, Hamirpur and Mandi till Thursday. There was a marked fall in maximum temperatures. Una recorded the day temperature at 16.8 degrees Celsius. Tabo was the coldest place in the state, recording a minimum temperature of minus 10.6 degrees Celsius. Power cuts add to Jammu and Kashmir winter woes The Met office said an active western disturbance was likely to affect the western Himalayan region and adjoining plains from Friday. Light rain and snow are likely at many places on Monday and Saturday and at isolated places on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday, causing a gradual fall in temperatures, it said. The high-altitude tribal areas and mountain passes continued to experience biting cold, with temperatures plummeting 14 to 18 degrees below freezing point, the Met office said. In Rajasthan, light rain, triggered by a western disturbance, hit several parts of the state over the past 24 hours, accompanied by dense fog at some places, the Met office said. Rainfall ranging from 1 mm to 10 mm was logged in several areas including Ganganagar, Churu, Bikaner, Anupgarh, Pilani (Jhunjhunu), it said. Fog prevailed at many places of western Rajasthan with Alwar recording the lowest minimum temperature at 7.4 degrees Celsius. A fresh western disturbance is expected to become active on Thursday and Friday and its effect will be seen in Udaipur, Kota, Ajmer and Bharatpur divisions, the weather office said.

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

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

Punjab civic polls: AAP wins in Patiala, leads in Jalandhar, Ludhiana; Congress ahead in Amritsar, Phagwara

Elections to five municipal corporations Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Patiala, Amritsar and Phagwara and 44 municipal councils and nagar panchayats in Punjab took place on Saturday.

41% polling recorded till 1 p.m. in Punjab municipal elections

Punjab municipal elections see 41% turnout by 1 p.m., with BJP alleging fake voting in Patiala

Punjab: Voting for municipal polls underway

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

Farmer leader Dallewal faints, regains consciousness after ten minutes; Haryana Khaps call for maha panchayat in Hisar

CHANDIGARH: Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal's condition turned critical as he fainted on the twenty-fourth day of his fast unto death . On the other hand, the Khap Panchayats of Haryana have extended their support to the farmers and decided to hold a Maha Panchayat in Hisar on December 29. The Supreme Court reprimanded the Punjab Government for not running regular medical tests on Dallewal, advising it to persuade the leader to take treatment for a week before resuming protest. Dallewal is currently receiving treatment at the protest site. Sources close to him said that Dallewal fainted this afternoon. Dallewal stepped out of the temporary hut behind the stage at Khanauri border after taking a bath. Shortly after, he vomited and lost consciousness for about ten minutes. He was quickly wrapped in a blanket and changed into his clothes. He was taken to an area behind the stage as soon as he regained his senses where doctors examined him and fed him water with a spoon, a close associate of Dallewal said. Senior doctors from Rajindra Medical College and Hospital, along with officials of Patiala Police officials reached the Khanauri border. Sources added that a team of doctors from a NGO 5 Rivers Heart Association had been regularly monitoring him. A mini hospital has been set-up at the protest site to provide him medical aide. 'Attempt to unite all farmer unions' The Khap Panchayats of Haryana extended their support to the farmers and decided to hold a mahapanchayat in Hisar on December 29 and added that the Maha Panchayat will decide the next course of actions. A representative of Satrol Khap, Satish said, We have decided to support the farmers' movement, as it is not the fight of any one farmer, but for the farmers' community. The Maha Panchayat has been called in Bas village of Hisar and we will try to unite all the farmer unions so that the movement can be fought together. We demand that the government start talks if it is really concerned about the health of protesting farmers. The government should send a delegation to talk to the farmers within ten days. If something untoward happens to him then the government will be solely responsible, he said. He said that on December 13, the committee of Khaps went to Khanauri border to meet Dallewal . Earlier during the farmers' protest dharnas were held and Khaps supported the movement but during elections, everything was stopped but now the movement will be renewed. We want all farmer unions to once again unite on this issue. The 11-member committee of Khaps is supporting the farmers' movement, he added.

Framer who attempted suicide at Shambhu border dies at Patiala hospital

A 57-year-old farmer, Ranjodh Singh, died after consuming poison at the Shambhu border protest on December 14. Distressed by the failing health of fasting farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, Singh took his own life. He was participating in the ongoing protests at the Punjab-Haryana border, where farmers have been demanding guaranteed minimum support prices for crops since February.

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

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

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

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

3-hour rail roko protest by farmers begins in Punjab

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

'Called to wish but he didn't answer...': Families remember victims of Georgia poisoning

CHANDIGARH: Of the eleven Indian nationals found dead at a restaurant in Georgia's mountain resort of Gudauri , many were from Punjab: Samir Kumar (26) from Khanna near Ludhiana, Amrinder Kaur (32) from Mehma in Patiala district and her sister-in-law Maninder Kaur, and Ravinder Singh and Gurvinder Kaur from Sunam. All of them died due to suspected carbon monoxide poisoning. Samir Kumar, hailing from Billa Wali Chappri area of Khanna, moved to Georgia six months ago. He had been working at Haveli restaurant in Georgia when the tragedy took place. He died on his birthday, a few hours after he spoke to his mother in India. He had told his mother that there was a power shortage in the area due to a snowstorm and went to sleep shortly after. We tried to call him again on Saturday to wish him on his birthday but he did not answer the phone calls. Then we traced the number of the restaurant and called, they informed us that all 12 people sleeping in the premises had died due to a gas leak and he was among them. Our request to the government is that it should bring back his body so that his last rites can be performed, said a close relative who added that he is survived by his parents, brother and sister back here. Amrinder Kaur went to Georgia in 2015. She moved there to support her father and had been working at the hotel after completing class XII. She had also invited her brother Jatinder Singh to stay with them, but he had moved to South Korea. Two years ago, Jatinder married Maninder Kaur from Mansa. Maninder died along with Amrinder in the accident. They (Jatinder and Maninder) were planning to come to India next year to celebrate their marriage. The last time the family spoke to Amrinder was on Thursday and she said that there was blackout in the area due to a snowstorm. We request that her body be brought back so the family can perform her last rites, said a close relative. Ravinder Singh and Gurvinder Kaur moved to Georgia a year ago. They had gone to the resort to celebrate their first wedding anniversary on December 18. Ravinder went to Tbilisi in March and later moved to Gudauri. Singh was the youngest of three brothers. He started working as a carpenter after completing his graduation and moved to Georgia for a better future. Congress Member of Parliament from Amritsar, Gurjeet Singh Aujla urged the Punjab Government to take steps to bring back the bodies of Punjabis who died in the accident. Heartbreaking News: 12 Punjabi's have tragically died from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning at ski resort in Gudauri, Georgia. I urge CM @BhagwantMann & @KuldeepSinghAAP NRI Minister to take immediate steps to bring back bodies & support grieving families @ANI pic.twitter.com/aefcgNRoNo Gurjeet Singh Aujla (@GurjeetSAujla) December 16, 2024 Eleven Indian nationals were found dead at a restaurant in Georgia's mountain resort of Gudauri, the Indian mission had said on Monday. Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia had said the initial inspection found no signs of injury or violence. All victims died from carbon monoxide poisoning, local media reported, citing police. A power generator was running in the closed space and the exhaust likely choked the restaurant staff in their sleep. The ministry added that the bodies of all the victims were found in bedrooms on the second floor of the building. In connection with the fact, investigative actions are actively being carried out, forensic-criminalistics are working on the spot, and interviews of persons related to the case are being conducted. Appropriate examinations are appointed. A forensic medical examination has also been appointed to determine the exact cause of death, it said. The Indian mission in Tbilisi had said it was saddened to learn of the unfortunate passing of 11 Indian nationals in Gaudauri and extended its deepest condolences to their families. The mission added that it is in contact with the families of the victims and is providing them with necessary support. The Embassy of India in Tbilisi is saddened to learn of the unfortunate passing of eleven Indian nationals in Gudauri, Georgia, and extends its deepest condolences to their families. The Embassy is working closely with local authorities to facilitate the prompt repatriation of the mortal remains to India. We are also in contact with the bereaved families and are committed to providing all possible support, the embassy said in a statement.

Georgia resort deaths: Amritsar Congress MP urges Punjab government to bring back bodies for 'final rites'

CHANDIGARH: Of the twelve Indian nationals found dead at a restaurant in Georgia's mountain resort of Gudauri , many were from Punjab: Samir Kumar (26) from Khanna near Ludhiana, Amrinder Kaur (32) from Mehma in Patiala district and her sister-in-law Maninder Kaur, and Ravinder Singh and Gurvinder Kaur from Sunam. All of them died due to suspected carbon monoxide poisoning. Samir Kumar, hailing from Billa Wali Chappri area of Khanna, moved to Georgia six months ago. He had been working at Haveli restaurant in Georgia when the tragedy took place. He died on his birthday, a few hours after he spoke to his mother in India. He had told his mother that there was a power shortage in the area due to a snowstorm and went to sleep shortly after. We tried to call him again on Saturday to wish him his birthday but he did not answer the phone calls. Then we traced the number of the restaurant and called, they informed us that all 12 people sleeping in the premises had died due to a gas leak and he was among them. Our request to the government is that it should bring back his body so that his last rites can be performed, said a close relative who added that he is survived by his parents, brother and sister back here. Amrinder Kaur went to Georgia in 2015. She moved there to support her father and had been working at the hotel after completing class XII. She had also invited her brother Jatinder Singh to stay with them, but he had moved to South Korea. Two years ago, Jatinder married Maninder Kaur from Mansa. Maninder died along with Amrinder in the accident. They (Jatinder and Maninder) were planning to come to India next year to celebrate their marriage. The last time the family spoke to Amrinder was on Thursday and she said that there was blackout in the area due to a snowstorm. We request that her body be brought back so the family can perform her last rites, said a close relative. Ravinder Singh and Gurvinder Kaur moved to Georgia a year ago. They had gone to the resort to celebrate their first wedding anniversary on December 18. Ravinder went to Tbilisi in March and later moved to Gudauri. Singh was the youngest of three brothers. He started working as a carpenter after completing his graduation and moved to Georgia for a better future. Congress Member of Parliament from Amritsar, Gurjeet Singh Aujla urged the Punjab Government to take steps to bring back the bodies of Punjabis who died in the accident. Heartbreaking News: 12 Punjabi's have tragically died from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning at ski resort in Gudauri, Georgia. I urge CM @BhagwantMann & @KuldeepSinghAAP NRI Minister to take immediate steps to bring back bodies & support grieving families @ANI pic.twitter.com/aefcgNRoNo Gurjeet Singh Aujla (@GurjeetSAujla) December 16, 2024 Eleven Indian nationals were found dead at a restaurant in Georgia's mountain resort of Gudauri, the Indian mission had said on Monday. Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia had said the initial inspection found no signs of injury or violence. All victims died from carbon monoxide poisoning, local media reported, citing police. A power generator was running in the closed space and the exhaust likely choked the restaurant staff in their sleep. The ministry added that the bodies of all the victims were found in bedrooms on the second floor of the building. In connection with the fact, investigative actions are actively being carried out, forensic-criminalistics are working on the spot, and interviews of persons related to the case are being conducted. Appropriate examinations are appointed. A forensic medical examination has also been appointed to determine the exact cause of death, it said. The Indian mission in Tbilisi had said it was saddened to learn of the unfortunate passing of 11 Indian nationals in Gaudauri and extended its deepest condolences to their families. The mission added that it is in contact with the families of the victims and is providing them with necessary support. The Embassy of India in Tbilisi is saddened to learn of the unfortunate passing of eleven Indian nationals in Gudauri, Georgia, and extends its deepest condolences to their families. The Embassy is working closely with local authorities to facilitate the prompt repatriation of the mortal remains to India. We are also in contact with the bereaved families and are committed to providing all possible support, the embassy said in a statement.

Diljit Dosanjh vows not to perform in India until infrastructure improves

Singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh has announced that he will not hold concerts in India until live concert infrastructure is improved. The announcement came during his Dil-Luminati concert in Chandigarh on December 14, where he expressed his concerns about the lack of proper facilities for live shows. In a video circulating on social media, Diljit said in Punjabi, Here, we dont have the infrastructure for live shows. This generates big revenue and provides work for many people... Ill try next time to have the stage at the center so that you can be around it. Till this happens, I wont do shows in India, thats for sure. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Karanveer singh (@karanveerfilms) Diljits Chandigarh show was dedicated to Indias new International Chess Federation (FIDE) World Champion, Gukesh Dommaraju. He praised Gukeshs dedication and hard work, encouraging the audience to persevere through challenges. In a lighter moment, he referenced Allu Arjuns Pushpa dialogue, humorously saying, Saala nahi jhukega toh kya jija jhuk jayega. Ahead of the performance, the Chandigarh Commission for Protection of Child Rights (CCPCR) issued an advisory urging Diljit not to perform songs promoting alcohol or violence, such as Patiala Peg and 5 Tara . Despite the restrictions, the show was a massive success. Diljit will conclude his India tour with a final performance in Guwahati on December 29. Fans remain hopeful that concert infrastructure will improve, allowing the superstar to return to Indian stages in the future.

Temperatures drop in Delhi, Punjab; slight respite from cold for Kashmir

NEW DELHI: Cold weather conditions persisted in parts of north and west India on Sunday with the mercury dropping several notches in Delhi, Punjab and Rajasthan. Kashmir and the higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh received some respite from the intense cold as minimum temperatures rose. The respite for Kashmir is likely to be short-lived as the meteorological department has predicted a cold wave in parts of the valley over the next three days. Delhi's minimum temperature dropped to 4.9 degrees Celsius, 3.1 notches below normal, but cold wave conditions did not prevail, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The mercury settled at a low of 8 degrees Celsius in the city on Saturday. The capital recorded a maximum temperature of 23.2 degrees Celsius on Sunday, 0.2 notches below normal, the IMD said. The weather department has forecast moderate fog in Delhi on Monday. The minimum and maximum temperatures are expected to settle at 5 degrees Celsius and 23 degrees Celsius respectively. Punjab and Haryana also remained in the grip of cold weather conditions with Faridkot recording the lowest temperature in the region at 1 degree Celsius, according to the meteorological department. Punjab's Gurdaspur and Bathinda recorded a minimum temperature of 2 degrees Celsius and 4.6 degrees Celsius respectively at night, it said. The mercury settled at a low of 3.5 degrees Celsius in Pathankot, 3.9 degrees Celsius in Amritsar, 6.8 degrees Celsius in Ludhiana and 3.8 degrees Celsius in Patiala. In Haryana, Hisar shivered at 1.7 degrees Celsius and Narnaul recorded a minimum temperature of 3 degrees Celsius. Bhiwani recorded a low of 4 degrees Celsius, Gurugram 5.6 degrees Celsius, Rohtak 5.2 degrees Celsius and Ambala 5.7 degrees Celsius. The weather office said that Chandigarh, the common capital of Punjab and Haryana, recorded a minimum temperature of 4.8 degrees Celsius. Temperatures rose by three to five notches in the higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh while cold wave conditions gripped the lower hills as the weather remained dry. Tabo was the coldest place in the state at night with a low of minus 10.6 degrees Celsius and Shimla was the warmest at 12.2 degrees Celsius, 6.5 notches above normal. The adjoining resorts of Kufri and Narkanda recorded a low of 9.8 degrees Celsius and 6.4 degrees Celsius respectively. In the lower hills, Una recorded a minimum temperature of 0.2 degrees Celsius and Sundernagar 0.6 degrees Celsius. The local meteorological office has issued a 'yellow' warning for cold wave at isolated places in the lower hills and plains till Thursday and predicted dry weather in the state over the next seven days. Cold wave conditions will prevail in Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur and parts of Kangra districts, the weather office said. There was no significant change in maximum temperatures in Himachal Pradesh. Solan was the hottest during the day at 24.7 degrees Celsius followed by Shimla at 19 degrees Celsius, five notches above normal. Kashmir saw a slight respite from intense cold wave conditions as minimum temperatures rose across the valley, though they remained below the freezing point. The summer capital of Srinagar recorded a low of minus 3.4 degrees Celsius, an improvement from minus 4.6 degrees Celsius the previous night, the meteorological department said. Gulmarg, a tourist destination popular for skiing, registered a minimum temperature of 3.8 degrees Celsius -- a rise of nearly four notches from the night before. Pahalgam, the base camp for the Amarnath Yatra, logged a low of minus 4.8 degrees Celsius, three notches higher than the previous night. Konibal, a hamlet on the outskirts of Pampore town, was the coldest place in the valley with the mercury settling at a low of minus 5.2 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature was minus 4 degrees Celsius in Qazigund, 3.7 degrees Celsius in Kupwara and 2.8 degrees Celsius in Kokernag. According to the meteorological office, the weather in the valley is likely to remain mainly dry till December 21. Minimum temperatures are predicted to drop and a cold wave is likely over many stations during the next three days, the weather office said. In Rajasthan, cold wave conditions prevailed in most parts and Fatehpur recorded sub-zero temperatures for the third consecutive day on Sunday. According to the meteorological department, the minimum temperature in Fatehpur settled at minus 1.2 degrees Celsius. Churu recorded a minimum temperature of 1.6 degrees Celsius; Bhilwara 2.2 degrees Celsius; Sangaria, Pilani and Sirohi 2.6 degrees Celsius; Chittorgarh 3.2 degrees Celsius and Alwar 4 degrees Celsius. The mercury settled below 10 degrees Celsius at several other places in the state.

SC's directive spurs action as farmer leader Dallewal continues fast unto death

CHANDIGARH: As directed by the Supreme Court two days ago, representatives from the Union and Punjab governments met fasting farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal at the Khanauri border, located between Punjab and Haryana. Director in the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) Mayank Mishra and Punjab Director-General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav visited the 70-year-old leader, whose fast unto death entered its 20th day. They enquired about his health and listened to his demands. The Supreme Court had earlier instructed that Dallewal be provided with immediate medical assistance and urged him to end his indefinite fast, emphasising that his life was valuable. After the meeting, DGP Gaurav Yadav stated: We came here to enquire about the health of Dallewal. I, along with the Union government official Mayank Mishra, who was specially sent here, met him. We have heard his demands and have appealed to Dallewal. The way he is leading this peaceful agitation has been appreciated everywhere, and the government has taken cognisance of it. As per the Supreme Courts orders, Dallewal must be convinced, and emergent medical aid must be provided to him. Yadav further added: The Punjab Chief Minister has specially sent a message, and our efforts are directed at holding talks to address the demands and resolve the issue. We have appealed to the farmers that Dallewals life is precious. Medical facilities have been provided here, and we are working towards a resolution in coordination with the farmers. The Supreme Court has given us a clear mandate. He highlighted that the apex court recognised Dallewal as a senior citizen, a prominent farmer leader, and someone with health issues, underscoring the necessity for urgent medical assistance. The Punjab governments stand has been clear: it considers the farmers demands genuine and has supported them. We have tried to ensure that all necessary facilities are provided to him. It is the Punjab governments effort to facilitate the resolution of farmers demands, Yadav said. Medical teams and a special ambulance equipped with life-saving equipment have been stationed at the protest site, Yadav told the farmers, urging them to persuade Dallewal to seek medical attention. He also confirmed that Dallewals vital symptoms were being constantly monitored. Farmer leaders meet fasting Dallewal at Punjab-Haryana border, seek to bring together divided unions Before arriving at the Khanauri border, Yadav held discussions with farmer leaders Sukhjit Singh Hardojhande, Kaka Singh Kotda, and others. However, sources revealed that despite the governments assurances, Dallewal remained resolute in continuing his fast. To a question about any government proposals, MHA Director Mayank Mishra clarified: There was no proposal of any kind. I came here to hear him and to implement the Supreme Courts orders. Doctors have already recommended Dallewals hospitalisation, citing severe weakness due to his prolonged fast. Farmers under the banners of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) have been protesting at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points since February 13, following their march to Delhi being blocked by security forces. The farmers demands include a legal guarantee on the minimum support price (MSP) for crops, debt waivers, pensions for farmers and farm labourers, no hike in electricity tariffs, the withdrawal of police cases, and justice for the victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence. They are also seeking the reinstatement of the Land Acquisition Act, 2013, and compensation for the families of farmers who died during the 202021 agitation. DIG (Patiala Range) Mandeep Singh Sidhu, Patiala SSP Nanak Singh, Patiala Deputy Commissioner Preeti Yadav, former ADGP Jaskaran Singh, and former DIG Narinder Bhargava were also present at the meeting. Farmer leader Dallewal discharged from hospital, allege CM Mann hand-in-glove with centre to derail agitation

Photos: Sarwan Singh Pandher at Shambhu border

Patiala: Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher addressed a press conference at Shambhu border, in Patiala district, Punjab, Sunday, December 15, 2024. A jatha of 101 farmers on Saturday resumed its foot march to Delhi from the protest site at Shambhu border, but was stopped a few metres away by a multilayered barricading. Also ReadDelhi Chalo 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 .

Farmers suspend Delhi foot march for the day as 18 injured after Haryana cops opened tear gas, water cannon

SHAMBHU: Once again the farmers suspended their Dili Challo foot march for the day after eighteen farmers suffered injuries in tear gas shelling by Haryana Police at the Shambhu border (Punjab and Haryana border. Soon after walking for a few metres from their protest site at Shambhu border, the group of 101 farmers Jatha was stopped at the barricade by Haryana police and paramilitary forces. A few farmers who were injured were taken to a nearby hospital in ambulances stationed at the protest site. Farmer leader and convener of Kisan Mazdoor Morcha Sarwan Singh Pandher said that the two forums Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha have decided to call back our the group of 101 farmers (jatha) after 17 to 18 farmers were injured as they tried to march towards Delhi but were stopped at the multilayer barricading done by the Haryana Police and the police personnel lobbed tear gas shells and used water cannons. Pandher alleged that this time chemical mixed water was used to disperse the farmers and more teargas shells were used. Farmer leader Manjit Singh Rai alleged that rubber bullets were also used by security personnel and one farmer was seriously injured. Deputy Superintendent of Police (Ambala Cantonment) Rajat Gulia denied this allegation. This was the third attempt by protesting farmers to march towards the national capital. Farmers had made two attempts on December 6 and December 8 but were stopped by Haryana Police. They have been camping at Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13 after the Haryana police stopped their marches to Delhi. As farmers resume Delhi march, Haryana cops use tear gas, water cannon against them at Shambhu border Farmers shout slogans as security personnel use water cannons to disperse them during their agitation at the Shambhu border, in Patiala district, Punjab, Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024. The farmers are pressing the Centre for various demands including a legal guarantee of minimum support price for crops, debt waiver, pension for farmers and farm labourers, no hike in the electricity tariff, withdrawal of police cases and justice for the victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence. The farmers were adamant on going to Delhi and urged the security personnel to proceed. Earlier, Ambala Deputy Commissioner Parth Gupta and Ambala Superintendent of Police S S Bhoria talked with some protesting farmers for over half an hour, trying to convince them to get permission from Delhi to go towards the national capital. Superintendent of Police of Amabla S S Bhoria told the farmers that they should get permission from the authorities concerned if they intend to protest in Delhi. We will ourselves help you reach there, he said. We are peacefully marching on foot, therefore, we should be allowed to proceed. We want the government should listen to the problems of farmers and labourers. We want to go to Delhi peacefully, said a farmer leader.

As farmers resume Delhi march, Haryana cops use tear gas, water cannon against them at Shambhu border

CHANDIGARH: Haryana security personnel fired teargas shells and used a water cannon to disperse a group of protesting farmers from heading towards Delhi at the Shambhu border point on Saturday. A few farmers who were injured and taken to a nearby hospital in ambulances stationed at the protest site, officials said. The action came after a 'jatha' (group) of 101 farmers, who resumed their foot march to Delhi shortly after 12 noon on Saturday from the Shambhu protest site on the Punjab-Haryana border, reached the barricades put up by the Haryana security personnel. The farmers are pressing the Centre for various demands, including a legal guarantee of minimum support price for crops. Earlier, Ambala Deputy Commissioner Parth Gupta and Ambala Superintendent of Police S S Bhoria engaged in talks with some protesting farmers for over half an hour, trying to convince them to get permission from Delhi for going towards the national capital. However, the farmers were adamant on going to Delhi and urged the security personnel to proceed. Soon after walking for a few metres, the group was stopped at the barricading by Haryana security personnel, including paramilitary forces. Security personnel use water cannons to disperse farmers agitating at Shambhu border, in Patiala district, Punjab, Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024. We want to go ahead in a peaceful manner. Our voices should not be crushed like this. More than half of the country's population are connected with agriculture, their voice cannot be supressed, a farmer leader argued with the Haryana officials on the other side of the barricades. We are peacefully marching on foot, therefore, we should be allowed to proceed. We want government should listen to the problems of farmers and labourers. We want to go to Delhi in a peaceful manner, the leader said. Ambala's Superintendent of Police S S Bhoria told the farmers that they should take permission from the authorities concerned if they intend to protest in Delhi. We will ourselves help you reach there, he said. The spot where you are standing in protest, according to the Supreme Court order of July 24, directions were issued to maintain status quo at Shambhu border so that no untoward incident occurs, Bhoria told them. Farmer leader Pandher says no protest march to Delhi on Tuesday, slams Centre's 'double speak' Appealing to the protesting farmers to move back, Bhoria referred to the apex court, saying a high-powered committee constituted by it would talk to the protesting farmers and make recommendations to the court. Farmers should not get violent and do peaceful agitation. They should adopt the Gandhian way of protests because their grievances are being looked into, a bench of Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan had said on Friday. The bench had directed the Centre and Punjab government representatives to immediately meet Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who is observing a fast unto death. Ambala Deputy Commissioner Parth Gupta told the protesters that the matter was sub-judice and the next date of hearing has been fixed for December 18. This is the third attempt by the protesting farmers to march towards the national capital from the Shambhu border point. They had made similar attempts on December 6 and December 8 but were not allowed to proceed by security personnel in Haryana. Farmers raise slogans as they gather at their protest site at Shambhu border, in Patiala district, Punjab, Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024. The farmers under the banner of Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) have been pressing for various demands, including a legal guarantee of MSP. They have also been pressing the Centre to initiate talks with them to address their issues. The Ambala district administration has already clamped a prohibitory order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) that bans unlawful assembly of five or more people in the district. Earlier in the day, the Haryana government suspended mobile internet and bulk SMS services in 12 villages in Ambala till December 17. The order to suspend mobile internet in Dangdehri, Lehgarh, Manakpur, Dadiyana, Bari Ghel, Choti Ghel, Lharsa, Kalu Majra, Devi Nagar (Hira Nagar, Naresh Vihar), Saddopur, Sultanpur and Kakru villages in Ambala was issued to prevent any disturbance of peace and public order. All India Kisan Congress Working President Bajrang Punia with farmers at their protest site at Shambhu border, in Patiala district, Punjab, Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024. Meanwhile, farmer leader Dallewal's fast unto death at the Khanauri border point entered the 19th day on Saturday. Doctors have already recommended his hospitalisation, saying because of the prolonged fast, he has turned weak. However, the protesting farmers have formed a security ring around Dallewal so that the state authorities could not remove him from the protest site. The Punjab Police had forcibly removed Dallewal from the Khanauri border point on November 26, just hours before he was going to start his fast unto death. On Friday, SKM leader Rakesh Tikait met Dallewal and also called for unity of farmers' groups for a joint fight. Dallewal has been on a fast-unto-death at the Khanauri border between Punjab and Haryana since November 26 to press the Centre to accept the agitating farmers' demands, including a legal guarantee of MSP on crops. Farmers under the banner of SKM (Non-Political) and KMM have been camping at Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13 after their march to Delhi was stopped by security forces. Besides a legal guarantee on MSP for crops, the farmers are demanding a debt waiver, pension for farmers and farm labourers, no hike in the electricity tariff, withdrawal of police cases and justice for the victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence. Reinstatement of the Land Acquisition Act, 2013 and compensation to the families of the farmers who died during a previous agitation in 2020-21 are also part of their demands.

SC Asks Protesting Farmers to Adopt Gandhian Way

NEW DELHI: Prodding the protesting farmers to adopt the Gandhian way, the Supreme Court on Friday observed that the protesters at the Shambhu border could temporarily shift the venue and clear the highways or perhaps even temporarily suspend the ongoing agitation with a view to enable the committee to make its recommendation after due consideration by the stakeholders. The apex court also voiced concern over the deteriorating health of Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on a fast-unto-death for the last 17 days, and asked the Centre and Punjab government representatives to immediately meet with the farmer leader and provide immediate medical aid but warned against the use of any force to break his protest. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan said: Farmers should not get violent and do peaceful agitation. They should adopt the Gandhian way of protests because their grievances are being looked into. The top court said it was harsh winters and the agitating farmers at the Shambhu and Khanauri borders should not get violent and disrupt highway traffic. The apex court said a high-powered committee constituted by it, which was stated to be doing a good job, will talk to the protesting farmers and make recommendations to the court, which will eventually be put to the stakeholders for a decision. The bench said: We should not pass any order that is difficult to implement. It is the stakeholders who will ultimately have to take a decision. On the deteriorating health of Mr Dallewal, the top court said, It is the bounden duty of the state of Punjab and the Union of India to take all peaceful measures and provide adequate immediate medical aid to Mr Dallewal without forcing him to break the fast unless it is imperative to do so to save his life. In this regard, the DGP, Punjab, and his officers, along with the representative of the Centre, if it helps in diffusing the crisis, may immediately meet Mr Dallewal and other farmers leaders who are sitting at the dharna so as to convince them that the first priority as of now should be to provide the adequate emergent medical aid to Mr Dallewal. The top court was hearing a plea by the Haryana government against the Punjab and Haryana high courts direction to remove the blockade at the Shambhu border. The Haryana government moved the top court following an order of the Punjab and Haryana high court for the removal of the barricades at the Shambhu border after consultations with the Punjab government. The bench observed that the member secretary (high-powered committee) was present in the court and had assured in its next meeting it will persuade the farmers in the light of the court's suggestions to temporarily suspend the protest or shift to another venue. The bench directed the committee to file a short status report to this effect and the top court will look at the shifting of the farmer leader to a hospital on December 17. Justice Kant told solicitor-general Tushar Mehta and Punjab advocate-general Gurminder Singh to immediately do whatever was needed to preserve the health of the farmer leader. The bench indicated if a need arose, Mr Dallewal could be shifted to PGIMER in Chandigarh or any other hospital in Patiala. Mr Dallewal has been on an indefinite fast at the Khanauri border between Punjab and Haryana since November 26 to press the Centre into accepting the agitating farmers' demands, including a legal guarantee of minimum support price (MSP) on crops. During the hearing of the matter, one of the counsel handed over media reports where it was stated Mr Dallewal, a senior citizen, was on an indefinite fast for the last 17 days and his health was deteriorating. When the Punjab advocate-general sought to highlight the issue of over 2,000 farmers surrounding Mr Dallewal, the bench said Punjab government officials were on the ground talking to him, and therefore, efforts should be made to persuade him to end his fast. Your officers have direct access to him. They are in a position to have a direct dialogue and communication and even other farmer leaders who are sitting with him. They will also realise that the life of Mr Dallewal is more precious than anything else, the bench said. Farmers under the banner of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha have been camping at Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13 after their march to Delhi was stopped by the security forces. The Haryana government set up the barricades on the Ambala-New Delhi National Highway in February after farmer groups announced that they will march to Delhi in support of their demands, including legal guarantee of MSP for their produce. In its interim report, a Supreme Court-appointed panel on farmers' grievances listed reasons for agrarian distress, which, among others, include stagnant yield, rising costs and debts and an inadequate marketing system. The high-powered committee, constituted on September 2 under former Punjab and Haryana high court judge Nawab Singh to resolve the grievances of farmers agitating at the Shambhu border, suggested solutions including examining the possibility of giving legal sanctity to MSP and offering direct income support.

Supreme Court urges Punjab, Centre to reach out to fasting farmer leader

The court suggested that Jagjit Singh Dallewal may be shifted to PGI Chandigarh or nearby Patiala city for urgent medical intervention, if the need arose

'No Patiala Peg': After Hyderabad, Chandigarh body asks Diljit Dosanjh to avoid songs glorifying alcohol, violence

Diljit Dosanjh has been asked to refrain from singing alcohol-themed songs during his live show in Chandigarh on December 14.

No songs on alcohol: Advisory issued for Diljit's Chandigarh concert

Chandigarh: Chandigarh Commission for Protection of Child Rights (CCPCR) has advised singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh, set to perform here on Saturday, to refrain from singing alcohol-themed songs during his live show, citing their adverse impact on children of impressionable age. The advisory issued by the CCPCR chairperson Shipra Bansal on Thursday, specifically mentioned songs like 'Patiala Peg', '5 Tara', and 'Case' etc, cautioning against even altered versions that promote alcohol, drugs or violence. Avoid performing the songs i.e. Patiala Peg, 5 Tara, Case etc, even with twisted words in which alcohol, drugs and violence are promoted. These songs affect the children of impressionable age, the advisory read. This follows a similar directive issued last month by the Telangana government during Dosanjh's live show in Hyderabad, where he was advised against promoting alcohol and drugs. The notice also restricted from inviting children on stage due to loud sounds and flashing lights. The singer began the India leg of his Dil-Luminati Tour from Delhi in October this year. In the Chandigarh advisory, the CCPCR chairperson said, It has come to our notice that Diljit Dosanjh is going to perform in his live show scheduled for December 14, at Exhibition Ground, Sector-34, Chandigarh. After going through the representation received by the Commission, the CCPCR has decided to issue the following advisory in best interest of the children, it said. The advisory noted that as per the World Health Organization's (WHO) report, adults should not be exposed to sound with a peak pressure level above 140db (decibel). For children, the level is reduced to 120 db. It is advisable to not invite children on stage during live show where peak sound pressure level is above 120db which is harmful for children, the advisory said. The commission's advisory also asked to ensure that people aged below 25 years are not served alcohol as it is which is punishable under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 and other provisions of law. You are therefore requested to comply with the advisory issued by the commission in the best interest of children, it said, addressing the singer, event organisers and concerned authorities. A copy of the advisory has also been forwarded to the Chandigarh Excise and Taxation Commissioner and Senior Superintendent of Police, among others for necessary action. Meanwhile, a delegation led by Chandigarh BJP's former president Arun Sood met the Deputy Commissioner here on Wednesday demanding a change in venue for the concerts of Dosanjh and Punjabi rapper A.P Dhillon, scheduled for December 14 and 21, respectively. Sood cited that a recent event at the Sector 34 ground here by rapper-singer Karan Aujla had led to traffic congestions which caused inconvenience for residents. The delegation demanded that the upcoming concerts be shifted from Sector 34 to Sector 25 rally ground to avoid inconvenience and hardships to locals. Arun Sood said, There has been a lot of anguish among residents and businessmen of Chandigarh, especially in sector 34 and surrounding sectors after the recent music show of Punjabi singer Karan Aujla at the exhibition ground. He said that locals and businessmen of Chandigarh were affected by the rush of thousands of people, and their vehicles choking the city. We are not against the music concerts in the city, but our only concern is the venue, Sood said, adding that he himself is a big fan of Punjabi artists and music.

After Hyderabad and Delhi, Chandigarh targets Diljit Dosanjhs lyrics

Chandigarh: The Chandigarh Commission for Protection of Child Rights has advised singer Diljit Dosanjh to refrain from singing some of his hit songs, including Patiala Peg, at his concert on December 14 as they promote alcohol, drugs, violence and affect children. Hes set to perform in Chandigarh as part of his Dil-Luminati India Tour. Avoid 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 .

Diljit Dosanjh Concert: After Telangana, Chandigarh body asks singer to avoid 'patiala peg' type songs promoting alcohol

Punjabi singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh, currently on his Dil-Luminati India tour, has been issued an advisory by the Chandigarh Child Rights Commission ahead of his concert on 14th December in Sector-34. The notice prohibits singing songs that promote alcohol, drugs, or violence, including popular tracks like Patiala Peg and 5 Taara. Similar notices were issued earlier in Hyderabad. The advisory also includes guidelines for child safety during the event, citing concerns over loud music and stage use.

Sikh preacher Dhadrianwale booked for 2012 rape-murder case: Punjab Police tells High Court

CHANDIGARH: After twelve years, Sikh religious preacher Ranjit Singh Dhadrianwale has been booked by the Punjab Police in a case of alleged rape and murder of a woman in Patiala in 2012, the Punjab and Haryana High Court was informed. In an affidavit filed by Punjab Police Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav before the Punjab and Haryana High Court on Tuesday stated that a FIR was lodged on a complaint filed by the victim's brother, a Patiala resident under section 302 (murder), 376 (rape) and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code has been registered at Passiana Police station in Patiala on December 7, 2024 and the case is under investigation. The DGP filed the affidavit in the high court after the victim's brother alleged that his sister was raped and murdered and no action was taken by state police at the time of the incident. The woman was found in an unconscious condition outside the gate of Gurdwara Parmeshwar Dwar on April 22, 2012, and later she died at a hospital before she could make any statement, as per the affidavit. The affidavit further stated that the sister of the deceased filed four complaints from June 19, 2012, to November 9, 2012, for taking action against Dhadrianwale. An inquiry into the matter was conducted by the then Station House Officer, Passiana Police station and a recommendation was made for filling the said complaints. According to the office procedure, the records for the years January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2014 had been destroyed in October 2020,stated the affidavit. It said on December 21, 2023, the woman's brother had alleged that he was threatened by some persons not to raise his voice against Dhadrianwale. The affidavit stated that show-cause notices have been issued to then deputy superintendent of police Sewa Singh Malhi (who is now retired) and then SHO Ashok Kumar (now SP) on December 7. The petition of the woman's brother was taken up in November and during the previous hearing, the Bench presided over by Chief Justice Sheel Nagu had asked the DGP to explain as to what action has been taken against officials who handled the case in 2012. Sikh preacher Dhandrianwale, who heads Parmeshwar Dwar gurdwara, a dera in Shekhupura village in Patiala, has a large following in Punjab and among the diaspora abroad. Meanwhile Dhadrianwale, in a video message, said he would cooperate with the police investigation. They (the family) have moved the High Court. They have a doubt and they should clear their doubt. The High Court has said investigate the case after registering the FIR. It may take some time, but the truth will come out. I have full faith in the court and the Punjab Police, he said. The mother of the victim then had not raised suspicion against any person for the death of the woman. A postmortem report revealed that the death was caused due to poisoning by aluminium phosphate insecticide. The victim's family later testified before the executive magistrate that they do not suspect any foul play in the death of the woman. She had died on account of consumption of some poisonous substance, the affidavit stated. The police then forwarded the inquest report in June 2013, which was approved by the sub-divisional magistrate, Patiala in February 2014. Subsequently, another complaint was filed by the woman's brother which was forwarded to the Patiala Senior Superintendent of Police on October 16, 2024. Not new to controversies, religious preacher Dhadrianwale a Gurmat Pracharak (preacher) is associated with the Nirvair Khalsa Jatha and has his religious headquarters spread on 33 acres at Gurdwara Parmeshar Dwar on the Patiala-Sangrur highway. He has always faced some opposition, though many politicians across party lines visit him regularly to seek his blessings. He has faced opposition from some Sikh activists and outfits for allegedly distorting Sikh history and misinterpreting Sikh principles with his self-made rationality. He is known for his vociferous criticism of Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh as in 2015, Dhadriawale and many other Sikh leaders opposed the pardoning of Ram Rahim in a blasphemy case. He later alleged that he had received death threats. In May 2016, Dhadrianwale had a miraculous escape when he was attacked by unidentified persons near Barewal village in Ludhiana and he was provided security cover by the state police.

Sikh preacher Dhadrianwale booked for rape, murder: Punjab Police tells High Court

Sikh preacher Dhandrianwale, who heads Parmeshwar Dwar gurdwara, a dera in Shekhupura village in Patiala, has a large following in Punjab and among the Punjabi diaspora abroad

Sikh preacher Dhadrianwale booked for rape, murder: Punjab Police tells HC

CHANDIGARH, Dec 11: Punjab Police has registered a case against Sikh preacher Ranjit Singh Dhadrianwale in a 2012 case of alleged rape and murder of a woman in Patiala, the Punjab and Haryana High Court was informed. The FIR under section 302 (murder), 376 (rape) and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code has been registered at Passiana Police station in Patiala on December 7, according to an affidavit filed by Punjab Police Director General of Police Gaurav [] The post Sikh preacher Dhadrianwale booked for rape, murder: Punjab Police tells HC appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Sikh preacher booked for 2012 rape-murder

Patiala police booked Sikh preacher Ranjit Singh Dhadrianwale on charges of rape and murder of a woman in 2012 following a Punjab and Haryana HC order. The FIR, based on the deceased's brother's 2012 complaint, includes charges of criminal intimidation. Police issued show-cause notices to former and current officers for negligence in the delayed investigation.

Court summons Dharmendra in cheating case linked to Garam Dharam Dhaba

The Patiala House Court in Delhi has summoned veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra and two others in connection with a cheating case involving the Garam Dharam Dhaba restaurant franchise. The court issued the summons following a complaint alleging that the accused had failed to fulfill franchise-related commitments, resulting in significant financial losses for the complainant. The complaint was filed by an entrepreneur who claimed that Dharmendra and his associates had entered into an agreement to establish a franchise of the Garam Dharam Dhaba restaurant chain. The complainant alleged that despite investing substantial amounts, the promised support for operations, branding, and marketing from Dharmendra and his partners never materialized. The petitioner accused the actor and the two co-accused of misrepresentation and breach of trust. The court has directed Dharmendra and the others to appear before it on the specified date to respond to the allegations. The actor, known for his iconic roles in Indian cinema, has not yet released a statement addressing the matter. Garam Dharam Dhaba, a franchise associated with Dharmendra, has gained popularity for its Bollywood-themed ambiance and North Indian cuisine. However, this legal controversy raises questions about its management and franchise agreements. Legal experts believe the case could have significant implications for franchise operations in India, as it highlights the importance of transparency and adherence to contractual obligations in such partnerships. The next hearing will determine whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed with the charges or resolve the dispute amicably. This case has garnered considerable attention due to Dharmendras involvement, with fans and legal observers closely monitoring developments.

Modi govt in no mood for talks, says Pandher

NEW DELHI: A day after halting their Delhi Chalo foot march, Punjab farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher on Saturday said they have not received any message from the Centre for talks to address their issues. He also said that a group of 101 farmers will resume their march to Delhi on Sunday. On Friday, protesting farmers suspended their foot march to the national capital for the day after some of them suffered injuries due to teargas shells fired by security personnel, who stopped them at the Shambhu border. The farmers have been pressing for various demands, including a legal guarantee for minimum support price (MSP). The Haryana police has written to its Punjab counterpart asking it to ensure media personnel are stopped at a distance from the protest site for their safety as well as to ensure ease in maintaining law and order. Addressing the media at the Punjab-Haryana border on Saturday, Mr Pandher said 16 farmers suffered injuries and one of them lost hearing ability because of the teargas shelling by Haryana security personnel. Except for four injured farmers, the rest of them have been discharged from the hospital, he said, adding, We have not received any message from the Centre for holding talks. The (Narendra) Modi government is in no mood to hold talks. He added that the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha have already decided that a jattha of 101 farmers will again march towards the national capital on Sunday noon in a peaceful manner. On the action by security personnel against protesting farmers, Mr Pandher said the BJP government at the Centre has been exposed. What did they do yesterday? People are angry with this action. People are asking the BJP since the farmers were not taking tractor-trolleys along with them, then why they were not allowed to move ahead, he posed. Another farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal continued with his fast unto death at another border in the Khanauri area. Meanwhile, the Haryana police, in a communication to the Punjab police chief, said, It is brought to your notice that on December 6, when the jattha of farmers approached towards the Haryana border, many mediapersons were also accompanying them despite the request made by this office not to allow media persons near the protest site. Due to this, the Haryana police faced a lot of problems in handling the law-and-order situation at the border. Hence you are again requested to direct all concerned to ensure that mediapersons are stopped at a safe distance (minimum 1 km) in the interest of the safety of media persons as well as their requirements, the letter stated. As part of a call by the farmer unions, a jattha of 101 farmers began its march to Delhi on Friday from their protest site at the Shambhu border to press for their demands. The jattha was stopped by multi-layered barricading erected by Haryana security personnel. Undeterred by prohibitory orders, the farmers attempted to force their way through the barricades but were stopped by security personnel who lobbed multiple teargas shells to force them to return to their protest site at Shambhu, which falls in Punjabs Patiala district.

DMK's Kanimozhi condemns Centre's ruthless use of force against farmers

New Delhi: Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi condemned police action on farmers during their 'Delhi Chalo' march, calling it inhumane use of force. In a post on X, Kanmozhi urged the central government to immediately engage with farmer representatives, and address their demands without delay. On Friday, farmers launched 'Delhi Chalo' march, demanding a legal guarantee or MSP on crops from the central government. They were stopped at the Sambhu border by police which used tear gas shells to disperse the protestors. Several farmers were reportedly injured during the protest. Kanimozhi called the police action oppressive and asked the government to address farmers' demands. I condemn the Union Government's ruthless and inhuman use of force against farmers marching to Delhi for their rightful demands, including a legal guarantee for MSP on crops. It is outrageous to attack those who feed the nation with lathi and tear gas, Kanimozhi said. The Union Government must stop this brutal suppression, immediately engage with farmer representatives, and address their demands without delay, she added. After several farmers were reportedly injured in tear gas shelling by police, the 'Delhi Chalo' march was called off on Friday. Earlier in the day, Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher expressed his disappointment, stating that the central government is unwilling to engage in talks with the farmers. Emphasising the lack of positive initiative from the central government to resolve farmers' demands, Pandher informed that 20 farmers were injured in tear gas shelling by police at the Sambhu border to halt their 'Delhi Chalo' march. Speaking with ANI, Pandher said, The central government is not in the mood to talk to the farmers. We can't see any positive initiative to peacefully solve the issue from their side. 20 farmers have been injured. 14 farmers have gone to Hospital, 2 were seriously injured, and one was referred to Patiala. This is the condition here, he added. On Friday, Pandher announced that a group of 101 farmers will march towards Delhi on December 8 at 12 noon if the Union Government does not engage in talks with them by Saturday. The protest aims to press for several demands, including compensation and a legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price (MSP).

Cyber Police cracks digital arrest case, 3 non-locals arrested

Srinagar, Nov 29: In a major success, the cyber police of Jammu and Kashmir have cracked a digital arrest case, where the victim was cheated of Rs 21 lakhs. The police have arrested three non-locals identified as Gaurav Kumar of Shamli, Uttar Pradesh, Gurpreet Singh and Ujjawal Chauhan both residents of Patiala, Punjab. Senior Superintendent [] The post Cyber Police cracks digital arrest case, 3 non-locals arrested appeared first on Northlines .

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

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

BJP makes inroads into Punjabs rural belt in membership drive

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

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

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

Mirabai Chanu to skip weightlifting World Championships as she continues rehab

New Delhi: Tokyo Olympic silver medallist Mirabai Chanu will miss next week's weightlifting World Championships in Manama, Bahrain as she continues to undergo rehabilitation.The 30-year-old former world champion has not competed since her fourth-place finish in the women's 49kg category at the Paris Olympics in August. Mira is still in rehab after the Paris Olympics. She will not be taking part in this World Championship, chief national coach Vijay Sharma told PTI. Chanu had been in a race against time to recover for the Paris Games after she suffered a hip injury at the Asian Games last year. There were murmurs surrounding her fitness even as she competed at the Olympics. Her dream to win an Asian Games medal -- the only medal missing from her overflowing trophy cabinet -- was dashed last year but the Manipuri, despite all the injuries, is determined to stand on the podium at the the continental event. It is important for her to recover well as we will need to begin preparation for the 2026 Commonwealth Games and Asian Games, Sharma added. Gyaneshwar Yadav to lead Indian challenge In Chanu's absence, Commonwealth Championship gold medallist Gyaneshwari Yadav will spearhead the Indian challenge at the World Championships, beginning on December 6. The 21-year-old will represent India in the 49kh weight class. Commonwealth Games silver medallist Bindyarani Devi (55kg) and national championship and Khelo India Weightlifting League gold winner Ditimoni Sonowal (64kg) are the other two Indian lifters who will be competing at the world event. Sharma, who is hopeful of a positive result, said, The new kids are coming up, they are doing well. This is an opportunity for them to rub shoulders with the best in the world. The three are currently part of the national camp in Patiala and will leave for Bahrain early next week. Squad: Women: Gyaneshwari Yadav (49kg), Bindyarani Devi (55kg), Ditimoni Sonowal (64kg).

NIA To Request High Court To Designate Power Of MP/MLA Court To Its Court For Hearing Engineer Rashid Case

New Delhi, Nov 27: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Wednesday orally informed the Patiala House court that it is writing a letter to the Delhi High Court requesting it to designate the power of MP/MLA court to the Special National Investigation Agency (NIA) Court to empower it to hear the matter in which Engineer Shiekh Abdul Rashid, now an MP, is one of the accused. Senior advocate Siddharth Luthra, Special Public Prosecutor (SPP) for agency, submitted that it will [] The post NIA To Request High Court To Designate Power Of MP/MLA Court To Its Court For Hearing Engineer Rashid Case appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Former CM Gehlots OSD Lokesh Sharma arrested in Rajastan phone-tapping case, later released on bail

JAIPUR: Lokesh Sharma, Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot , was arrested on Monday by the Crime Branch of Delhi Police in connection with Rajastan phone-tapping case. However, he was released on bail within a few hours after the arrest process was completed. Sharma had secured anticipatory bail from the Patiala House Court on November 21, which allowed for immediate bail following the arrest. The Crime Branch at Prashant Vihar recorded his arrest, prepared the arrest memo, and subsequently released him in compliance with the court order. Earlier, on November 14, Sharma had withdrawn a petition he filed in the Delhi High Court seeking relief from arrest and requesting a transfer of the case to Rajasthan. After the withdrawal, the court lifted the stay on his arrest. The high-profile phone-tapping case dates back to July 2020, during the political rebellion led by Congress leader Sachin Pilot in Rajasthan. Sharma allegedly leaked audio recordings in which senior BJP leaders were purportedly heard conspiring to buy Congress MLAs to topple the Gehlot-led government. According to Sharma, these recordings were sourced from social media, but the BJP claimed the tapes were part of an illegal phone-tapping operation allegedly directed by then Chief Minister Gehlot, who believed the Pilot revolt was part of a conspiracy orchestrated by the BJP to destabilize his government. In March 2021, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat lodged a formal complaint with the Delhi Police, accusing Sharma and others, including senior police officers, of illegal phone tapping. Recent developments suggest that Sharma could potentially become a government witness, which may grant him relief in the ongoing investigation. If he does, the case could implicate several high-profile individuals, including Gehlot, the then Additional Chief Secretary for Home Affairs, and senior officials in the Chief Minister's Office (CMO). Adding to the controversy, a few months ago, Sharma revealed additional audio recordings purportedly featuring conversations between him and Gehlot. In these recordings, Gehlot allegedly instructed Sharma to destroy a pen drive containing incriminating call recordings. Sharma claims this pen drive was the source of the recordings that were made public during the crisis. Speaking to the media, Sharma reiterated his commitment to cooperating with the investigation. I am fully cooperating with the Delhi Crime Branch and will continue to do so. I have always spoken the truth and will repeat the same in court or any investigative forum. Whatever is true, I am ready to say it everywhere, Sharma said.

Rajasthan phone-tapping case: former CM Gehlots OSD Lokesh Sharma arrested and released on bail

JAIPUR: In a dramatic turn of events in the R ajasthan phone-tapping case, Lokesh Sharma , Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot , was arrested on Monday by the Crime Branch of Delhi Police. However, he was released on bail within a few hours after the arrest process was completed. Sharma had secured anticipatory bail from the Patiala House Court on November 21, which allowed for immediate bail following the arrest. The Crime Branch at Prashant Vihar recorded his arrest, prepared the arrest memo, and subsequently released him in compliance with the court order. Earlier, on November 14, Sharma had withdrawn a petition he filed in the Delhi High Court seeking relief from arrest and requesting a transfer of the case to Rajasthan. After the withdrawal, the court lifted the stay on his arrest. The high-profile phone-tapping case dates back to July 2020, during the political rebellion led by Congress leader Sachin Pilot in Rajasthan. Sharma allegedly leaked audio recordings in which senior BJP leaders were purportedly heard conspiring to buy Congress MLAs to topple the Gehlot-led government. According to Sharma, these recordings were sourced from social media, but the BJP claimed the tapes were part of an illegal phone-tapping operation allegedly directed by then Chief Minister Gehlot, who believed the Pilot revolt was part of a conspiracy orchestrated by the BJP to destabilize his government. In March 2021, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat lodged a formal complaint with the Delhi Police, accusing Sharma and others, including senior police officers, of illegal phone tapping. Recent developments suggest that Sharma could potentially become a government witness, which may grant him relief in the ongoing investigation. If he does, the case could implicate several high-profile individuals, including Gehlot, the then Additional Chief Secretary for Home Affairs, and senior officials in the Chief Minister's Office (CMO). Adding to the controversy, a few months ago, Sharma revealed additional audio recordings purportedly featuring conversations between him and Gehlot. In these recordings, Gehlot allegedly instructed Sharma to destroy a pen drive containing incriminating call recordings. Sharma claims this pen drive was the source of the recordings that were made public during the crisis. Speaking to the media, Sharma reiterated his commitment to cooperating with the investigation. I am fully cooperating with the Delhi Crime Branch and will continue to do so. I have always spoken the truth and will repeat the same in court or any investigative forum. Whatever is true, I am ready to say it everywhere, Sharma said.

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

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

Solidus Techno Power Pvt. Ltd. Appoints Mr. Jaspal Singh as Chief Technology Officer

Mr. Jaspal Singh - CTO, Solidus Techno Power Pvt. Ltd. Mr. Singh joins Solidus with an impressive background, having led major solar projects at NTPC, including the Project Management and execution of a 56 MW/80 MWp solar plant in Surat, spearheading India's first floating solar PV projects by NTPC and feasibility studies,due diligence & engineering for international solar PV projects. His expertise spans ground-mounted and rooftop solar PV systems, hybrid solar solutions, and innovative energy storage technologies. Holding an MBA in Operations from S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research, Mumbai, and a B.Tech in Electronics & Instrumentation from Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology, Patiala, Mr. Singh brings a strategic mindset to Solidus. His achievements include the development of robotic dry cleaning systems for solar panels, contributing to India's first solar-wind hybrid solutions, and publishing research papers on energy storage and microgrids. A Vision for Growth and Innovation Commenting on his new role, Mr. Jaspal Singh said, I am excited to join Solidus Techno Power Pvt. Ltd. as the CTO during this pivotal phase of growth. My focus will be on advancing our technological capabilities and driving innovative solar solutions to help Solidus achieve its ambitious target of becoming a 1,000 MWp solar leader by 2028. Under his leadership, Solidus is set to scale new heights, with 350 MWp projects currently under execution and a goal to expand into high-potential solar markets across India, including Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Haryana and Punjab. His appointment aligns with Solidus's commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions and supporting India's renewable energy goals. Mr. Harvinder Singh, Managing Director of Solidus Techno Power Pvt. Ltd. , shared his enthusiasm for the new appointment: We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Jaspal to our leadership team. His extensive experience in solar technologies and his proven track record in delivering high-impact projects will be invaluable as we accelerate our growth and innovation efforts. About Solidus Techno Power Pvt. Ltd. Solidus Techno Power Pvt. Ltd. is a premier solar EPC company dedicated to providing innovative and sustainable solar power solutions. With a strong focus on advanced technologies and strategic partnerships, Solidus aims to deliver high-efficiency solar projects that contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future.

after-himachal-delhi-court-attaches-rajasthans-bikaner-house-to-settle-over-rs-50-lakh-due-to-private-firm

A Delhi Court has attached the Bikaner House in the national capital, owned by the Nokha Municipal Council in Rajasthan, to settle dues of Rs 50.31 lakh it owes to a private firm. The Court directed that a representative of the Council should appear before it during the next hearing. The Patiala House Court has attached the Bikaner House owned by the municipal council after the Nokha civic body failed to settle arbitral award of Rs 50.31 lakh in favour of private company Enviro Infra Engineers Private Limited. District Judge Vidya Prakash ordered the attachment after the Nokha body failed to honour the arbitrary settlement ordered in 2020. Keeping in view the fact that the Judgement Debtor (Nokha Municipality Council) had failed to comply with the direction for furnishing an affidavit of their assets despite grant of repeated opportunities, the Court, while agreeing with the submissions made on behalf of Decree Holder (DH), finds it a fit case for issuance of warrants of attachment against immovable property of JD namely Bikaner House, New Delhi, the judge ordered, PTI reported. The Patiala Court also restrained the Nokha Council from transferring or charging the property by sale, gift or otherwise. The Court will hear the case next on November 29. The Delhi Courts move comes after the Himachal Pradesh High Court recently attached the state governments Himachal House in Delhi, to settle its arbitrary dues of Rs 150 crore to a private firm. The Himachal Pradesh government said it will challenge the order legally. The High Court also directed the Himachals power secretary to conduct a fact-finding inquiry to identify the officers responsible for the lapse in payment and sought a report.

Beant Singh murder convict gets 3-hour parole for kins bhog

The Punjab and Haryana high court granted Balwant Singh Rajoana, a convict in the assassination of former Punjab CM Beant Singh, a three-hour release to attend his brother's hog ceremony. Rajoana will be escorted by police from Patiala Central Jail to the ceremony in Ludhiana and returned to jail by 2 pm.

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

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

Will stop singing songs on alcohol if...: Diljit

Diljit's songs, such as Patiala Pegg and Panchatara, were specifically mentioned in the complaint.

Hyderabad to Celebrate Guru Nanaks Birth Anniversary Grandly

Hyderabad: A mass congregation, Vishaal Deewan, will be held at the Nampally Exhibition Grounds from 11 am to 4 pm on Friday to celebrate the 555th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. The event, organized by the prabhandak committees of the Gurudwara Saheb at Secunderabad and Gurudwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha of Afzalgunj, is expected to draw a large number of Sikh devotees and people from other faiths. Reputed Ragi Jathas (religious preachers), including Bhai Lakhwinder Singh Singhji from the Amritsar Golden Temple, Bhai Amarjeet Singh from Patiala, Hazuri Ragi Jathas, Bhai Hari Singhji, Bhai Charanjeet Singhji, among others, will recite Gurbani Keertans and Katha and throw light on the teachings of Guru Nanak. A free community kitchen, Guru Ka Langar, will be organised to serve thousands of devotees. Additionally, medical camps will be set up at the venue to provide healthcare services to the attendees.

Bhavan katham asti? Sanskrit finds new life in Assams border villages

In the villages of Anipur Basti and Patiala Basti near the Bangladesh border, residents have embraced Sanskrit as an everyday language. Around 300 villagers, including school children, now converse fluently in the ancient language. This revival, sparked by workshops and educational programs, has reportedly led to improved academic performance and a renewed appreciation for Indian heritage.

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

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

NZCC, JKAACL organize Lok Virasat

NL Correspondent Jammu Tawi: The North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC), Patiala, under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in collaboration with the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Language (JKAACL), Jammu, on Monday organized Lok Virasat A Festival of Vanishing Folk Art Forms at K.L. Saigal Hall, Jammu. The event [] The post NZCC, JKAACL organize Lok Virasat appeared first on Northlines .

Air quality remains 'very poor' in several parts of Haryana, Punjab

CHANDIGARH: The air quality index at several places in Punjab and Haryanawas recorded in the 'very poor' and 'poor' categories on Sunday. According to Sameer app that provides hourly updates of the national AQI published by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI in Punjab's Amritsar was recorded at 301,183 in Chandigarh, 119 in Bathinda, 214 in Jalandhar, 171 in Khanna, 153 in Ludhiana, 207 in Patiala, 184 in Mandi Gobindgarh and 141 in Rupnagar. Among several places in Haryana, the AQI was recorded at 293 in Bhiwani, 280 in Charkhi Dadri, 238 in Faridabad, 202 in Fatehabad, 266 in Gurugram, 266 in Hisar, 253 in Jind, 258 in Rohtak, 296 in Sonipat, 251 in Sirsa, 238 in Kurukshetra, 187 in Panipat, 142 in Yamunanagar and 112 in Ambala, the data showed. Spike in stubble burning on Diwali worsens Punjabs air quality The air quality index in Haryana's Bahadurgarh and Karnal were the worst hit with 313 and 316 respectively. An AQI between zero and 50 is considered good, 51 to 100 satisfactory, 101 to 200 moderate, 201 to 300 poor, 301 to 400 very poor, 401 to 450 severe, and above 450 classified as 'severe plus.' Notably, Punjab recorded 379 farm fires on Saturday.

Spike in stubble burning on Diwali worsens Punjabs air quality

CHANDIGARH: The biggest spike in stubble burning cases this season in Punjab occurred on Diwali, with 484 farm fire incidents reported. So far, a total of 2,950 crop residue burning cases have been reported across the state, and the number is expected to rise in the coming days. The Air Quality Index (AQI) level this morning in Punjab and Haryana fell into the 'Very Poor' and 'Poor' categories, while the Union Territory of Chandigarh recorded 'Very Poor' air quality. Meanwhile, Pakistan Punjabs Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has described smog as a common enemy and called for joint efforts between the Punjab regions of India and Pakistan. She stressed that the issue is not political but a humanitarian one. According to data from the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB), Sangrur topped the state with 89 stubble burning incidents, followed by Ferozepur with 65, Mansa with 40, Fatehgarh Sahib with 36, and 35 each reported in Tarn Taran and Kapurthala. In Patiala, 33 incidents occurred, followed by 29 in Amritsar, 28 in Bathinda, 20 in Gurdaspur, and 14 each in Moga and Barnala. Additionally, Ludhiana recorded 11 cases, Faridkot had 10, and seven cases were reported from Jalandhar and Hoshiarpur. Muktsar saw four cases, SAS Nagar three, and one case each was recorded in Fazilka and Malerkotla. Since October, there has been a noticeable uptick in stubble-burning incidents. On October 12, 177 cases were reported, followed by 163 on October 13, 173 on October 15, and 219 on October 29. Sources pointed out that the number of crop residue burning cases is expected to increase further in the coming days, as farmers prepare to clear their fields for wheat sowing during the November 1-15 window. Cracker ban goes up in smoke as Delhi records its most polluted Diwali in three years The deteriorating air quality in major cities across Punjab remains a concern. This morning, Amritsar recorded an AQI of 335 ('Very Poor'), Mandi Gobindgarh 326 ('Very Poor'), and Khanna 306 ('Very Poor'). In other cities, the AQI fell into the 'Poor' category: Patiala registered 255, Ludhiana 206, and Jalandhar 266. Bathinda was the only city with 'Moderate' air quality at 110. In Chandigarh, the AQI was marked as 'Very Poor' at 320. Haryanas air quality was also grim, with four cities recording 'Very Poor' AQI levels this morning: Gurugram at 376, Ambala at 336, Jind at 326, and Kurukshetra at 310. Twelve cities had AQI levels in the 'Poor' range, including Bahadurgarh at 284, Faridabad at 278, Bhiwani at 275, Kaithal at 260, and Daruhera at 257. Panchkula registered 249, Manesar 247, Hisar 246, Karnal 243, Ballabgarh 228, Fatehabad 233, and Charkhi Dadri 210. Only Palwal (129) and Mandikhera (136) recorded 'Moderate' air quality. Addressing a Diwali event in Lahore, Maryam Nawaz Sharif emphasised the need for cooperation between the Punjab regions of India and Pakistan. She stated, Winds do not recognise boundaries; we must engage in diplomacy with the government of Indian Punjab, as smog has become a significant concern in Punjab, especially Lahore. I am thinking of writing to the CM of Indian Punjab for a joint war against smog and ask for a coordinated response to measures being implemented to prevent smog and environmental degradation. Until both Punjabs come together, we will not be able to tackle the smog issue.

Engineer Rashid Returns To Tihar Jail After Hearing Deferred On His Bail Plea

New Delhi, Oct 28: Delhis Patiala House Court on Monday deferred till November 19 the hearing on the regular bail plea of J&K MP, Engineer Rashid, accused in a terror funding case being probed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Click Here To Join Daily Excelsior on WhatsApp And Get Latest News Since we are considering the jurisdiction issue whether the matter will be heard by this court or the designated MP/MLA court of National Investigation Agency, the matter will [] The post Engineer Rashid Returns To Tihar Jail After Hearing Deferred On His Bail Plea appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Delhi court to pronounce decision on Engineer Rashids bail plea on Monday

New Delhi: A Delhi court is set to pronounce on Monday its decision on the regular bail plea of J&K MP, Engineer Rashid, accused in a terror funding case being probed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). In the previous hearing, the Patiala House Court had deferred its order on Engineer Rashids regular bail plea 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 .

Meet Abhishek Bachchan's actress whose father was violently killed, Akshay Kumar film made her star, is now viral amid..

This actress was just 11 years old, her life changed forever in 1994 when her father was violently kidnapped and killed by terrorists while they were living in Patiala.

Amarinder Singh criticises AAP governments paddy procurement, urges central intervention

CHANDIGARH: Former Chief Minister and BJP leader Amarinder Singh visited Asias largest grain market, Khanna grain market in Punjab, highlighting the `tardy paddy procurement. He lashed out at Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann saying that Mann should visit the grain market himself, talk to centre and get the issue resolved. He further said that he would urge the central government to intervene to ensure a smoother procurement. However, his visit has further charged the already heated political scene in the state. Amarinder Singh said, I visited Khanna Dana Mandi today and met with our hardworking farmers, arhtiyas and labourers. Unfortunately, they are facing hurdles due to a tardy job of procurement planning by the Punjab AAP government as there is a procurement problem across all grain markets in the state. When I was CM for nine and half years there was never such a problem and procurement was hassle free. The present Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann should go to Delhi and talk to the centre and meet the PM and Home Minister and FCI officials. Amarinder questioned, Has CM Mann visited any grain market in the state since procurement began? When I was CM I had no problem with PM Modi or Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the centre always cooperated with us. I have assured the farmers and arthiyas that I will urge the central government to intervene to ensure a smoother procurement, he said. Amarinder is still seen by farmers as a Chief Minister under whose nine-year tenure there were no problems in wheat and paddy procurement. The farmers recall how they did not have to languish in the mandis and the payments too were smooth. Amarinder. now a BJP leader is being blamed along with the BJP for the ongoing paddy crisis by the AAP government. He has taken the challenge head-on, by visiting the grain market and interacting directly with farmers. Amarinder Singh interacts with farmers in the Khanna Dana Mandi. After visiting the grain market at Khanna, Amarinder returned to his farmhouse in Siswan near Chandigarh as he skipped a tentative visit to Moti Bagh Palace in Patiala. Singh was supposed to visit other places as well but he was told about the scheduled farmer protest and possible traffic hiccups due to which all other meetings were cancelled. Activists of the farmer union BKU Ekta Ugrahan have been staging protests outside his residence in Patiala for the past eight days. Amarinder has not attended public events for more than two years and did not even participate in the Lok Sabha poll campaign, which saw his wife Preneet Kaur contest from Patiala. The AAP government is having a serious face-off with the BJP over the non-lifting of the paddy due to issues with rice millers. Reacting to Amarinder Singh's visit to Khanna grain market, senior leader of the AAP and Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that Amarinder often meets with Home Minister Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, but why has he never raised the issues of Punjab's farmers and commission agents in front of them. Cheema claimed that Amarinder's political career had ended. Since the public has rejected him, he is now pretending to show sympathy for farmers by visiting the mandis. The people of Punjab know that the entire problem has been created by the central government. The central government has not lifted rice from warehouses on time and has not listened to the concerns of the millers and commission agents, causing distress to farmers and arhtiyas in Punjab, he said. Amarinders party hates Punjab. They hate the farmers and commission agents of Punjab, and that is why they are deliberately harassing them. He knows that the central government has withheld thousands of crores from various funds meant for Punjab. The central government has been holding back RDP, MDF, and NHM funds for years, but Captain has never raised these issues before the centre, Cheema added.

SC pulls up Centre for toothless environmental laws on stubble burning

New Delhi: The Supreme Court criticised the central government on Wednesday for rendering environmental protection laws ineffective, specifically regarding the enforcement of penalties for stubble burning under the Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Act of 2021 (CAQM Act). A bench comprising Justices Abhay S. Oka, Ahsanuddin Amanullah, and Augustine George Masih highlighted that the CAQM Act was enacted without the necessary mechanisms for effective implementation to combat air pollution. Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, representing the Centre, assured the court that the provisions related to penalties for stubble burning would be enforced in ten days, stating that regulations would soon be issued. She mentioned that an adjudicating officer would be appointed and that all necessary actions would be taken to ensure compliance. Bhati also noted that the CAQM had sent notices to senior administrative officials in Punjab and Haryana, as well as to officials of the state pollution control boards, seeking explanations for their lack of action. However, the bench questioned the seriousness with which the CAQMs notices were treated, saying, Please tell your chairperson of CAQM not to bail out these officials. We know what is happening on the ground. The court was informed that over 1,000 instances of stubble burning had occurred in various districts of Punjab, including Amritsar, Ferozepur, Patiala, Sangrur, and Taran Taran. On October 16, the Supreme Court had reprimanded the Punjab and Haryana governments for failing to prosecute violators of stubble burning regulations and summoned the chief secretaries of both states to provide an explanation. The court expressed its frustration over the inaction of Punjab and Haryana in implementing the CAQMs directives aimed at curbing stubble burning in the national capital region.

Punjab government doctors planning to follow path of agitation in wake of increased attacks on doctors

CHANDIGARH: With more than a dozen cases of assault on government doctors of Punjab in the last two months after the RG Kar hospital horror in Kolkata and assurances by the AAP-led Punjab Government for comprehensive security and reinstatement of dynamic assured carrier progressions (DACPs), nothing has happened on the ground. The doctors are now planning to follow the path of agitation. In the last few days, two incidents of violence against doctors have been reported, one from Civil Hospital at Jalandhar on October 20 where a drunkard person assaulted a doctor on night duty and harassed his female colleagues and another from the community health centre (CHC) Dhakoli where two groups clashed with each other in the centre thus forcing the lady doctor and staff to lock themselves in the room till police came. Thus after the intervention of the association, the state police lodged the cases against the alleged accused under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Punjab Protection Medicare Services Institutions (Prevention of Violence and Damage of Property) Act. It is learnt that similar incidents have taken place since August at the government health facilities at Dera Baba Nanak, Patiala, Jagron, Sunam, Rajpura, Ferozepur and Naushera Majha Singh. Talking with TNIE, Dr Akhil Sarin, president of the Punjab Civil Medical Services (PCMS) Association of Punjab said, If commitment made by the government is not met within the stipulated time frame then the doctors will be forced to follow the path of agitation. He said that on October 21, a letter was written to the state health and family welfare secretary requesting a meeting regarding a review of the implementation of security provisions. On September 11 the association met with the cabinet subcommittee and received a written assurance that a comprehensive security framed work at all the 24/7 centres of the state would be put in place within a week of the meeting and also the government agreed to the implementation of dynamic assured carrier progressions (DACPs) within 12 weeks of the meeting but nothing happened on the ground, he added. The ACP scheme provides financial benefits and higher pay scales to government employees. After the meeting, the state health minister announced and reiterated that the assurances will be implemented within the stipulated time frame. However even after the lapse of six weeks, no on-ground steps for implementation of the assurances are perceptible, he said. The PCMS Association has been demanding a detailed assessment of each health facility to determine optimal security guards. For a 200-bed hospital ten guards during day time and four at evening and night hours. For the sub-district level hospitals, six security guards and at the community health centre, four guards. Besides security guards, visitor passes for people coming to see the patients, installing CCTVs and improving lighting in hospital campuses are also recommended. Earlier on September 14 the PCMS doctors, who had suspended OPD services since September 9, announced that they would be resuming duties after assurance from state health minister Dr Balbir Singh.