Punjab News
Text view
Captain Shreyas Iyer Joins PBKS Think Tank At IPL 2026 Auction Table
Captain Shreyas Iyer: Shreyas Iyer joined Punjab Kings management at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction table, becoming only the second cricketer, after Rishabh Pant, to be a part of the process. The IPL 2026 auction is currently underway here at the Etihad Arena. Pant was part of the auction table when he was the Delhi Capitals skipper, for the 2024 edition of the event. IPL 2024 was Pants comeback to the league after his near-death accident. That edition, notably, was also his last with the franchise, as he was roped in by the Lucknow Super Giants at the IPL 2025 mega auction last year. Iyer, who left Kolkata Knight Riders after the teams victorious IPL 2024 campaign, was roped in by PBKS at the IPL 2025 mega-auction for a whopping Rs. 26.75 crore and handed the leadership duties. His captaincy proved critical for the team, as they reached only their second final in the tournaments history, only to lose the title to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), who lifted their maiden cup. The IPL 2025 runners-up have already retained a core group of 21 players, providing a stable base as they plan to fill a few important gaps with the 11.5 crore they still have. With four remaining slots, including two for overseas players, PBKS has the structure and flexibility to make precise, high-impact additions. With a near-complete roster, Punjab Kings will mainly focus on targeted, minor upgrades during the auction rather than major overhauls. They aim to acquire a powerful middle-order batter to boost late-game scoring and increase batting lineup flexibility. The IPL 2025 runners-up have already retained a core group of 21 players, providing a stable base as they plan to fill a few important gaps with the 11.5 crore they still have. With four remaining slots, including two for overseas players, PBKS has the structure and flexibility to make precise, high-impact additions. Also Read: Live Cricket Score PBKS squad before IPL 2026 auction: Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, Shreyas Iyer, Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Azmatullah Omarzai, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal, Harpreet Brar, Suryansh Shedge, Vishnu Vinod, Xavier Bartlett, Yash Thakur, Mitchell Owen, Harnoor Singh, Musheer Khan, Pyla Avinash, Marco Jansen, Lockie Ferguson. Article Source: IANS
Cameron Green Becomes Costliest Overseas Buy In IPL History, Sold To KKR For Rs 25.20 Cr
Australian all-rounder Cameron Green was roped in by Kolkata Knight Riders for a whopping sum of Rs. 25.20 crore at the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction, underway here at the Etihad Arena. With that, he became the most expensive overseas player in the history of the tournament. As his bidding reached the Rs 25 crore mark, he went past the previous record set by his Australia teammate Mitchell Starc, who was bought by KKR for Rs 24.75 crore in the IPL 2024 auction. Overall, he became the third costliest player in the history of the IPL auction after Rishabh Pant (Rs 27 crore to Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL 2025 mega auction) and Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer (26.75 crore in IPL 2025 auction). Green went under the hammer at his base price of Rs. 2 crore and initiated a bidding war between Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals, before the latter team backed out when the figures touched Rs. 13 crore. Just then, five-time champions Chennai Super Kings lifted the paddle as the battle intensified. KKR and CSK entered the auction as the teams with the heaviest purses, with the three-time champions having Rs. 64.30 crore and the Ruturaj Gaikwad-led team having Rs. 43.40 crore. After a few tense moments and several discussions among members of the think tanks of both sides, Green became the first player of the eve to cross the Rs. 20 crore mark before KKR sealed the deal for a whopping 25.20 crore. Just then, five-time champions Chennai Super Kings lifted the paddle as the battle intensified. KKR and CSK entered the auction as the teams with the heaviest purses, with the three-time champions having Rs. 64.30 crore and the Ruturaj Gaikwad-led team having Rs. 43.40 crore. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The all-rounders most recent IPL outing was in IPL 2024, when he represented RCB. In 12 innings, he made 255 runs at a strike rate of 143.25. Picked up 10 wickets in 13 matches with the ball at an economy of 8.61. Has also played for the Mumbai Indians before being traded. Article Source: IANS
Gunmen abduct 18 bus passengers in Pakistan
KARACHI, Dec 16: Eighteen people were abducted by unidentified gunmen in Pakistans Sindh province while they were en route to Quetta in a bus. The incident took place near the Ghotki area on Monday night when the attackers opened fire on the bus at the Highway Link Road close to the Sindh and Punjab border, and took hostage 18 male passengers. The driver and a few passengers were injured in the firing. A total of 18 to 20 attackers [] The post Gunmen abduct 18 bus passengers in Pakistan appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
All-round Punjab edge MP in high-scoring contest
Harnoor, Arora fifties and Ramndeep's cameo helped Punjab bounced back from two defeats; Venkatesh Iyer's fifty went in vain
IPL Auction: Can same-name players cause confusion at the bidding table?
A mix-up at the IPL 2024 auction saw Punjab Kings briefly attempt to retract their bid for Shashank Singh, citing mistaken identity due to two players sharing the same name. The franchise later clarified that the all-rounder from Chhattisgarh was always a target, expressing delight in securing him. The player himself reassured fans on social media.
Punjab Declares Amritsar, Anandpur Sahib, Talwandi Sabo As Holy Cities
The Punjab government has declared the walled city of Amritsar, Sri Anandpur Sahib in Rupnagar district, and Talwandi Sabo in Bathinda district as Holy Cities of the state, imposing wide-ranging restrictions to preserve their religious sanctity.
The Punjab government on Monday formally declared the walled city of Amritsar, Sri Anandpur Sahib in Rupnagar district, and Talwandi Sabo (Sri Damdama Sahib) in Bathinda district as Holy Cities of the state, imposing wide-ranging restrictions to preserve their religious sanctity.
A kabaddi player and promoter was shot dead at a live tournament in Mohali after gunmen posed for selfies with him. The killing, claimed by a rival gang as revenge for Sidhu Moose Wala's murder, has raised concerns about Punjab's law and order. The attackers fled after firing several shots in the air.
Rs 14cr salary scam at Punjabi University: Whistleblower seeks vigilance probe
Work-to-rule: Punjab power engineers stir escalates
Fog envelops Punjab & Haryana, as visibility drops to 10m in Bathinda, 30m in Hisar
NGT notice to Punjab, BBMB over floods and dam safety compliance
Punjab Firm Accused Of Polluting Groundwater, Assets Worth Rs 80 Crore Seized
According to the complaint, the company illegally disposed of untreated industrial wastewater by injecting it into deep underground aquifers.
IPL 2026 Auction: How Shreyas Iyers Punjab Kings can fix gaps with ruthless, high-impact buys
Punjab Kings enter the IPL 2026 mini-auction with a clear strategy, aiming to fill four crucial slots with a healthy purse. They are targeting an explosive middle-order hitter, a dependable wicketkeeper, and an additional Indian bowling option to strengthen their squad. The team seeks to make targeted, high-impact additions rather than wholesale changes.
Kabaddi player shot dead in middle of Mohali tournament, gunmen open fire in packed arena
CHANDIGARH: A 30-year-old kabaddi player-cum-promoter died after unidentified gunmen opened fire on him after he arrived with his team to take part in a tournament in Mohali on Monday, police said. Kanwar Digvijay Singh alias Rana Balachauria was critically injured in the attack and was rushed to the Fortis Hospital in Mohali where he was declared dead, police said. The incident took place at Sohana in Mohali where a private kabaddi tournament had been going on for the past few days, SSP Harmandeep Singh Hans said. A statement issued by the hospital said, Mr Kanwar Digvijay Singh, a 30-year-old kabaddi player, was brought to the Fortis Hospital, Mohali, at 6:05 pm with gunshot injuries. Despite immediate clinical assessment, he was declared brought dead. The SSP told reporters that the assailants were 2-3 in number, who reportedly fled on a motorcycle after the incident. Asked if there was any enmity angle or gang rivalry behind the killing, the SSP said, The matter is under investigation. Punjab has become so unsafe that even a Kabaddi ground is no longer spared from bullets. At the Mohali Kabaddi tournament, Kabaddi player and promoter Rana Balachauria (Balraj Rana) was shot dead in front of players and spectators. This is not the first time. Earlier, Kabaddi pic.twitter.com/BMPF9f3iOs BJP Chandigarh (@BJP4Chandigarh) December 15, 2025 Some eyewitnesses told police that the attackers pretended to be fans and approached Rana to click selfies but opened fire soon after. The tournament was being held in a packed ground, where Punjabi singer Mankirt Aulakh was also expected for the evening matches to give away prizes, they said. When Rana reached the ground, he was stopped by the attackers who requested for a selfie. We first thought firecrackers were being burst, an eyewitness said, referring to the gunshots. To scare the spectators, the attackers also fired in the air, he said. The killing brought back memories of three years ago when another kabaddi player, Sandeep Nangal, was shot dead in Jalandhar district in the middle of a tournament at Mallian Kalan village. More recently, a 25-year-old kabaddi player named Teja Singh was shot dead in broad daylight in Jagraon in October this year. The opposition Congress, SAD and BJP slammed the Bhagwant Mann government over the Mohali incident, alleging total collapse of law and order in the state under the AAP. Punjab Congress president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring said in a post on X, Open firing at a kabaddi tournament in Mohali, claiming the life of player Rana Balachauria, is a chilling reminder of @AAPPunjab's abject failure to maintain law and order. Bullets flying at public events are proof of governance collapse. Punjabis are being forced to live in fear. Senior Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa said on X, Gunshots at the Mohali Kabaddi Cup in Sohana are a damning verdict on @BhagwantMann's total failure as CM and Home Minister. Bajwa, whos the Leader of Opposition in the Punjab Assembly, claimed that sporting arenas have turned into shooting grounds while criminals roam with impunity. When bullets fly at public events, it's clear the state has lost control. This isn't governance, this is abdication. Punjab is paying the price for Mann's incompetence and misplaced priorities. Law and order has collapsed completely. How many more shots before accountability, he asked. Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) chief Sukhbir Singh Badal said the incident has once again shaken Punjab to its core. In a post in Punjabi on X, Badal said, Under the state's inept government, the morale of criminals has risen to such heights that they do not hesitate to fire shots even in the middle of a running match in front of the entire crowd. It is the incompetence of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann that murders, extortions and numerous other terrorist incidents are happening daily in Punjab. Yet, instead of maintaining law and order, police are focused on implementing government orders related to political vendetta. Punjab BJP working president Ashwani Sharma claimed the state has become so insecure today that even the kabaddi fields are no longer safe from bullets. The incident is even more heartbreaking because Rana had been married recently. A married life was mercilessly ended by gangster rule, Sharma said. He also said this was not the first such incident. Previously, kabaddi players Sandeep Nangal Ambian and Tejpal Singh were brutally murdered. All these events make one thing clear Punjab's players are also in the crosshairs of gangsters under the Bhagwant Mann government, Sharma said on X. Sharma also alleged that under Bhagwant Mann's failed leadership and Arvind Kejriwal's remote-control government run from Delhi, law and order in Punjab has completely collapsed. Criminals, gangsters, murderers and shooters are roaming freely without any fear, while the government is busy with advertisements and false claims. From villages to cities, from streets to stadiums there is an atmosphere of fear in Punjab today, he alleged.
Punjab Firm Accused Of Polluting Aquifer, Rs 80-Crore Assets Seized
Assets worth Rs 79.93 crore belonging to a Punjab-based company has been seized by the Enforcement Directorate as part of a money laundering investigation linked to an environmental crime involving large-scale water pollution.
Chaos Everywhere: Firing At Punjab Kabaddi Match Leaves Promoter Injured
A shooting incident occurred at the Bedwan Sports Club's four-day kabaddi match in Mohali, leaving promoter Rana BalaChouria seriously injured.
Punjab Police arrests two gangster-turned-terrorists linked with BKI from Mumbai
CHANDIGARH: In a major inter-state operation carried out in coordination with central agencies, Punjab Police have arrested two gangster-turned-terrorists linked to the banned outfit Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) from Mumbai, officials said on Monday. The arrested men have been identified as Sajan Masih, a resident of Veroke village in Gurdaspur district, and Sukhdev Kumar alias Munish Bedi, a resident of Lahori Gate in Amritsar. Both were allegedly operating from overseas locations before their arrest. Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav said the two accused had a long criminal history, with multiple cases registered against them for murder, attempt to murder, offences under the Arms Act, use of explosives, and provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) at police stations in Batala and Amritsar. According to Yadav, the arrested men were key operatives of Pakistan-based ISI-supported terrorist Harvinder Singh alias Rinda and USA-based BKI operative Harpreet Singh alias Happy Passia, who is currently detained. They were operating from overseas locations, including Dubai and Armenia, while attempting to orchestrate criminal and terror activities in Punjab, he said. The DGP said Punjab Police had issued Look Out Circulars (LOCs) and Red Corner Notices against several wanted criminals who had taken refuge abroad, which helped in tracking and apprehending the two accused. Preliminary investigations have revealed that the duo was part of a BKI-linked network responsible for multiple grenade attacks on police stations in Amritsar and Batala, as well as the killings of Hardeep Singh of Jourrian Kalan and Ravi Kumar, a kiryana store owner from Dera Baba Nanak. Yadav added that Sajan Masih was also coordinating with another key associate, Shamsher Shera alias Honey, who is currently based in Armenia. Sharing operational details, AIG SSOC Amritsar Sukhminder Singh Mann said the arrests were made following specific intelligence inputs developed in close coordination with central agencies. A joint team of the State Special Operations Cell (SSOC), Amritsar, and Counter Intelligence, Pathankot, was swiftly dispatched to Mumbai and took the accused into custody immediately after they landed from abroad. Mann said the arrested men were actively involved in providing logistical support, funding channels and strategic direction to foot soldiers operating in Punjab. Both accused have been arrested in connection with FIR No. 47 dated August 25, 2025, registered under Sections 25, 29 and 30 of the Arms Act and Section 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at Police Station SSOC Amritsar.
CM to open labour conclave on December 19
Labour Ministers of Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Jharkhand, and Telangana will take part in the conclave, says V. Sivankutty.
Watch: Addressing an anomaly | On stubble burning, burnt-area estimates
The Environment Ministry told Parliament that Punjab and Haryana have reduced stubble burning incidents by 90% in 2025 compared to 2022
CHANDIGARH: Punjab Congress president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring on Monday moved the Punjab and Haryana High Court seeking mandatory videography of the counting of votes for the Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections, scheduled to be held on Wednesday, following polling on December 14. A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed by Warring on Monday through advocate Nikhil Ghai. It states that he absence of mandatory videography during counting renders the process opaque and vulnerable to arbitrariness and manipulation, potentially undermining public confidence in grassroots democracy. It invokes constitutional provisions, including Articles 14 (equality), 21 (right to life and liberty), and 243K (powers of State Election Commission), asserting that free and fair elections are part of the basic structure of the Constitution. The court is scheduled to hear the public interest litigation on Tuesday. Ghai said on the petitioners behalf that the counting of votes was an integral and decisive stage of the election process, continuing until the declaration of results. The petitioner contended that the absence of videography rendered the process opaque and vulnerable to arbitrariness and allegations of manipulation, thereby eroding public confidence in democratic institutions. Despite this being a settled legal position, the counting of votes in Zila Parishad elections was conducted without mandatory videography, leaving no objective or verifiable record of the most sensitive phase of the elections, the plea said. The petition sought preventive institutional safeguards, including directions to mandate videography of the entire counting process, secure preservation of videographic records for a prescribed period, and their availability for judicial or statutory scrutiny. It also sought the framing of uniform and binding guidelines governing videography, storage, access and accountability. Earlier, the high court had directed the State Election Commission (SEC) to ensure the non-partisan conduct of police personnel and to inquire into allegations of misconduct by the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and the Congress, as both parties had claimed that their candidates and workers were allegedly intimidated and attacked to prevent them from participating in the poll process. There was a low voter turnout of 48 per cent in these polls, compared to 58.1 per cent in 2018.
IPL 2026 Auction: Green, Livingstone, Bishnoi On Radar As Teams Get Ready To Make Big Buys
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: The spotlight will be on the likes of Cameron Green, Liam Livingstone and Ravi Bishnoi as ten franchises gear up for the IPL 2026 auction, set to take place at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. It will mark the third straight time of an IPL auction happening outside India after Dubai (2024) and Jeddah (2025). All ten teams are expected to loosen their purse strings in pursuit of marquee talent and have a squad which can win the IPL 2026 trophy. A total of 77 slots are available, including 31 for overseas players. Three-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have the most vacancies with 13, followed by 2016 champions Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) with ten. From a longlist of 1,355 players, 359 have been shortlisted 244 Indian and 115 overseas. Forty players have entered at the maximum base price of Rs 2 crore, with Bishnoi and Venkatesh Iyer the only Indians in that group. Green, Australias seam-bowling all-rounder, is expected to be the biggest draw, thanks to the skewed demand-supply ratio in a mini IPL auction, with bids for him projected to cross Rs 25 crore. Apart from Bishnoi and Green, the England duo of Liam Livingstone and Jamie Smith, along with NZ pacer Matt Henry, keeper-batter Tim Seifert and South Africa batter David Miller, are also likely to attract strong interest from all ten teams, as is Sri Lanka pacer Matheesha Pathirana, who was let go of by Chennai Super Kings (CSK). KKR head into the auction with the largest purse at Rs 64.30 crore, while five-time winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have Rs 43.40 crore, with both teams eyeing to rebuild their squads after a poor IPL 2025 season. In contrast, five-time winners Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings might have quiet auctions due to their purses of Rs 2.75 crore and Rs 11.5 crore, respectively. What remains certain is that no overseas player can earn more than Rs 18 crore, regardless of the winning bid. Under the IPLs maximum-fee rule, the cap is fixed at the lower of the highest retention slab - Rs 18 crore - or the top price from the previous mega auction, which was Rs 27 crore for India wicketkeeper-batter and Lucknow Super Giants skipper Rishabh Pant. Among the uncapped names, Jammu & Kashmirs seam-bowling all-rounder Auqib Nabi and Rajasthan pacer Ashok Sharma have drawn interest from coaches and scouts who have been seeing all games of state-run T20 leagues and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. What remains certain is that no overseas player can earn more than Rs 18 crore, regardless of the winning bid. Under the IPLs maximum-fee rule, the cap is fixed at the lower of the highest retention slab - Rs 18 crore - or the top price from the previous mega auction, which was Rs 27 crore for India wicketkeeper-batter and Lucknow Super Giants skipper Rishabh Pant. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The auction will move into an accelerated round after the first 70 players are presented, with franchises then nominating unsold names for further bidding. As this is a mini-auction, the Right to Match (RTM) card will not be available to teams. Article Source: IANS
Schools in Jalandhar hit by bomb threat; evacuation ordered, searches on
JALANDHAR: A bomb threat sent into panic several schools here on Monday, with authorities evacuating students and launching anti-sabotage actions. Nothing suspicious has been found so far, an officer said. We were told that there had been some fault in the electricity and we were asked to pick up our children from the school, a parent told reporters. ACP (North) Sanjay Kumar, who was at KMV School, said, A threat was received on the school principal's email that the building would be blown up. He said the police searched the school premises immediately after the information was received. Anti-sabotage team also carried out a check in the premises, but nothing suspicious was found so far, Kumar said. He said there were other schools which received similar bomb threats. The Cyber Police teams are tracking the source of the mail, he said. On December 12, several schools in Amritsar were hit by a bomb threat, which later turned out to be a hoax. #WATCH | Jalandhar, Punjab: ACP North Jalandhar Sanjay Kumar says, The school received an email, and the principal also received a message containing a threat. The cyber team is investigating the email... The threat is that they want to demolish the school. https://t.co/W3Q8nRjd9o pic.twitter.com/F9d80znI9J ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2025
Punjab youths killed in suspected mistaken-identity shooting in Edmonton
Two young men from Punjab were allegedly shot dead in Canadas Edmonton, with families suspecting the attack may be a case of mistaken identity. The victims were identified as 27-year-old Gurdeep Singh from Barre village and 19-year-old Ranvir Singh from Uddat Saidewala village
Always Enjoy Bowling With Arshdeep As He Creates Pressure From The Other End: Rana
Harshit Rana: Indias seam-bowling all-rounder Harshit Rana said he relishes sharing the new ball with Arshdeep Singh and credited the left-arm fast bowler for building pressure from the opposite end. In the third T20I at the HPCA Stadium on Sunday, Arshdeep and Rana, playing in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, who was unavailable due to personal reasons, set the tone for Indias seven-wicket win by making the most of seam-friendly conditions and picking three wickets in the powerplay. The duo claimed a combined 4 for 47 from their eight overs, which proved to be decisive for Indias comfortable win, giving them a 2-1 lead. First of all, I always enjoy bowling with him with the new ball, especially because he's someone who creates that pressure from one end. I like to give him company in terms of what's in my hand. So, I enjoy bowling with him because he has a lot of experience and I get a lot of help from him. I found out at midnight that I was playing this match. It's my first time here in Dharamsala. I've never been to Dharamsala before. It's a lot of fun bowling here. I get a lot of help from the weather and its a lot of fun, said Rana in a video posted by BCCIs social media accounts on Monday. Arshdeep, who took the Player of the Match award for his figures of 2-13, had a forgetful time in the second T20I in New Chandigarh conceding 54 runs, including seven wides in the 13th over. He said being a level-headed human and support from the team helped him bounce back in Dharamsala, a ground where he turns out for Punjab Kings in the IPL. Whether it's good or bad, I just try to stay at a level. Like, I try to be a level-headed person and create reels. I try to keep the dressing room atmosphere light because when you play at an international level and you're away from your family, there's a lot of pressure. If you don't have a good day, they give you a shoulder to help you and make you feel good. That's the main motive of being in the team. He also felt bowling coach Morne Morkel could have been playing ahead of him if the former was still active on the international circuit. If the bowling coach was playing on this wicket, I wouldn't be playing. After the last game, he said that you gave me a lot of screen time. Whenever I bowled a wide ball - the camera was focusing straight on the coach because many felt, What if he gave a wrong bowling plan or we didnt do practice together with him? For that, I will say sorry to Morne and will try to get you less screen time. Morkel reacted with laughter about an increase in his visibility in the second T20I and felt pleased about Indias fightback with the ball. I received a lot of messages from players in our squad with the red ball and 50-over series that I pay for my own private channel because all they saw was me on the screen. Whenever I bowled a wide ball - the camera was focusing straight on the coach because many felt, What if he gave a wrong bowling plan or we didnt do practice together with him? For that, I will say sorry to Morne and will try to get you less screen time. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Morkel signed off by admiring the picturesque surroundings in Dharamsala. The nice thing about this ground is if you ever have an average day, you can always look up at the mountains and just feel life isn't the same everyday. So, theres always a great joy in coming to this venue and playing here. It's one of my favourite grounds in the world. Article Source: IANS
North India to experience warmer winter days amid record cold nights, air pollution
NEW DELHI: An unexpected spell of warmer winter days is expected in North India leading up to Christmas, primarily due to weaker western disturbances (WD) and the presence of an anticyclonic system over western India. However, night will be colder than normal. Moreover, Delhi recorded its coldest average minimum temperature for the first half of December in the past 14 years. Weather experts predict that maximum daytime temperatures in many areas of Northwest, Western, and Central India will rise by 3C to 7C above normal, especially between December 15 and December 22. Over the past three days, the average maximum temperature in Delhi and surrounding areas has increased up to 4C during the day. Nonetheless, data indicates that Delhi experienced its coldest night in 14 years during the first half of December, with an average minimum temperature of 7.74C. Experts attribute this weather pattern to the prevalence of strong anticyclonic systems over western India combined with limited activity from Western Disturbances. Anticyclonic activities over the western region of the Indian subcontinent are pushing dry winds toward the central and southern regions, causing a cold wave in places like Telangana and North Karnataka. However, these dry winds are unable to penetrate the dense smog that is prevalent over Northwest India, said Dr. K J Ramesh, former Director General of the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). In the past two days, the speed of the dry winds has decreased, exacerbating the severe levels of air pollution in Delhi-NCR. IMD stated in its bulletin that no significant changes in weather are expected, particularly in the plains, over the next week despite the back-to-back arrival of weaker WD. While these disturbances will not bring the much-needed rainfall to the plains, they will lead to widespread mid- to high-level clouding over Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Delhi, further worsening air pollution by thickening the smog over the Indo-Gangetic plains. These WDs will not help but it will further destabilize the atmosphere by obstructing the flow of Northwest winds. The cloud cover traps pollution beneath it, leaving no opportunity for it to escape. Severe Air Quality Index (AQI) levels are expected to persist in North India tonight and tomorrow, with low visibility conditions in the morning due to smog, noted Navdeep Dahiya, an independent weather expert. He added that conditions may improve slightly on Tuesday once the Northwest winds resume. Reports also indicate that higher sea surface temperatures, around 2830C, in the Bay of Bengal and the North Indian Ocean are contributing to elevated winter air temperatures across the Indian subcontinent. Meanwhile, the IMD mentioned that light snowfall is expected over the higher reaches of the Himalayas. Furthermore, cold wave conditions are likely to continue at isolated places in Telangana and Interior Karnataka for the next two days. Pointers: 1. Warmer days expected till Christmas as days temperature may rise by 3C to 7C above normal. 2. Weaker Western Disturbances and prevalence of anti-cyclone or western region will keep pollutants trapped in Northwest region. 3. During the period, night will be colder than usual. 4. Delhi experienced its coldest night in 14 years during the first half of December.
The Punjab Subordinate Services Selection Board is closing online applications today for PSSSB Punjab Group D Recruitment 2025 under Advertisement 08/2025. The recruitment covers 331 Group D posts across various Punjab government departments. Eligible candidates with Class 10 qualification and Punjabi subject can apply online through the official website. Selection will be through a written examination followed by document verification and medical examination.
A thick layer of smog engulfed Delhi and its neighbouring areas on Monday, severely reducing visibility. This compounded the city's already critical air quality, with AQI levels in the 'Severe Plus' category. The IMD has warned of very dense fog conditions in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and Haryana in the coming days. In view of the deteriorating weather conditions, Delhi airport issued an advisory on Monday morning informing passengers of possible delays.
Two Punjabi students, Gurdeep Singh (27) and Ranveer Singh (19), were killed in a targeted shooting in Edmonton, Canada. The incident occurred after a party when their car was ambushed and fired upon by unidentified individuals. Police are investigating the targeted event and seeking a dark-coloured SUV.
Reddys ton guides Andhra to thrilling win against Punjab
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Pune, Dec 14: Young Andhra batter Hemanth Reddy proved way too strong-willed in the face of some hostile bowling from Punjab as he smashed an unbeaten 109 to lead his side to a thrilling five-wicket win in a high-scoring Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Super League A match, here Sunday. Reddy, playing []
Woman narco kingpin arrested in Jammu
Jammu: Police on Sunday arrested the woman kingpin of a narcotic trafficking racket here, officials said. Geeta Devi, originally from Phagwara in Punjab, was arrested from her rented accommodation in Rajiv Nagar by a team from the Udhampur police station, the officials said. They said Devi was identified as the narco kingpin during the investigation []
Foggy conditions in Punjab and Haryana
Entrusting Sharada Revival to Persian Departments: A Monumental Historical Mistake
By Bhushan Parimoo Originating in Kashmir and spreading widely across north-west Indiaincluding the Punjab hills and the old Gandhara regionSharada is the supreme indigenous alphabet of ancient Kashmir. It flourished between the 8th9th century and the 15th century, after which it was gradually replaced by the Persian script following the advent of Islam in [] The post Entrusting Sharada Revival to Persian Departments: A Monumental Historical Mistake appeared first on Northlines .
Caught On Cam: Scooter Rider Hits Man, Then Shoots Him For Confronting; Booked
Based on the CCTV footage, Punjab police has lodged an FIR and multiple raids are being conducted to arrest the accused.
SMAT | Ton-up Jaiswal powers Mumbai past Haryana, keeps remote chances alive
Hyderabad makes it two out of two to consolidate top spot; Hemanths hundred helps Andhra eliminate Punjab; Jharkhand edges MP by one run
NEW DELHI: There is no scientific evidence linking COVID-19 vaccination to sudden deaths among young adults, a latest AIIMS-ICMR study has said. The study found that most sudden deaths in India among both the young and old is due to cardiovascular diseases. Also, smoking and alcohol intake was equally prevalent in those who died young and at old age. The year-long study, published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research, the flagship journal of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), found that while the mean age for sudden death among young was 33.6 years, for old it was 53.8 years. Males predominated in both the categories. The researchers closely examined sudden death cases of people aged between 18 and 45 years using verbal autopsy, post-mortem imaging, conventional autopsy and detailed histopathological tests. According to the findings, there was no statistically significant association between COVID-19 vaccination status and sudden deaths in the young population. The present study did not find any significant correlation between COVID-related history or vaccination status, it said. Dr. Sudheer Arava, Professor in the Department of Pathology, AIIMS, and co-author of the study, said public health discourse must be guided by credible research and scientific evidence, not misinformation. The study also noted that both COVID-19 infection history and vaccination status were similar across younger and older age groups, and no causal link between vaccination and sudden deaths was found. These results, the researchers said, are in line with global scientific evidence that supports the safety of COVID-19 vaccines. Out of 2214 autopsies, 180 cases (8.1%) met the criteria for sudden death. Sudden death in the young accounted for 103 (57.2%) cases. Among the total sudden deaths, sudden death in young (18-45 years) accounted for 57.2 per cent (103 cases) and sudden death in old (46-65 year) accounted for 42.8 per cent (77 cases). While sudden deaths due to cardiovascular reasons was the leading cause among young, it is followed by respiratory causes, and then unexplained deaths. The other reasons were gastrointestinal, central nervous system, and genitourinary pathologies. The study said Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is the single most common cause of sudden death in older individuals (46-65 years), constituting 72.1 per cent. It is followed by sudden unexplained deaths (14.1%), gastrointestinal (7.4%) and pulmonary causes (4. 4%). The researchers defined sudden death as a death that occurs within one hour of onset of symptoms in witnessed cases and/or within 24 hour of last being seen alive in unwitnessed cases. On sudden deaths, the researchers, drawnfrom a multidisciplinary team of experts, said,It is one of the major public health concerns noted amongst all age groups, gender, socio-economic strata and ethnic categories. Despite major advancements in health care, sudden death remains a significant public health burden with substantial mortality. About 71.6 per cent of the total sudden death cases were residents of Delhi and NCR region, while others belonged to neighbouring states of Haryana and Punjab. About 80.2 per cent belonged to the lower and middle socioeconomic class. The common symptom seen among sudden deaths was sudden loss of consciousness, while rest complained of uneasiness, shortness of breath, chest pain, gastrointestinal symptoms like abdominal pain and vomiting and fever. While in the young, few were found to be suffering from comorbidities like diabetes, hypertension, tuberculosis, and epilepsy, among the older group, a higher proportion had a history of comorbidities, including diabetes mellitus and hypertension.
SMAT: Reddys Unbeaten Century Helps Andhra Win, Knock Punjab Out Of Competition
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Super: Maramreddy Hemanth Reddy smashed a blistering unbeaten century to script Andhras first win of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Super League stage and eliminate Punjab from being in contention for the final. At the MCA Cricket Stadium in Gahunje, Hemanth hammered 109 off 53 balls, his first T20I century and steered Andhra to a five-wicket victory by successfully hunting down 206 with a ball to spare. Put into batting first, Punjab assembled a strong total through collective contributions. Opener Harnoor Singhs 42 off 30 balls laid the foundation for the high score before Anmolpreet Singh (47 off 27 balls), Ramandeep Singh (43 off 18 balls) and Salil Arora (42 not out off 22 balls) injected momentum in the middle and death overs. For Andhra, seam-bowling all-rounder Nitish Reddy, who took a hat-trick in the previous game against Madhya Pradesh, returned with figures of 1-39 while left-arm spinner Saurabh Kumar took 1-24. The chase began in turmoil for Andhra, as they were reduced to 12/3 and later 56/5 in the ninth over, with Nitish falling for a duck. From that precarious position, Hemanth and SDNV Prasad turned the contest around with a decisive 155-run stand for the sixth wicket. For Andhra, seam-bowling all-rounder Nitish Reddy, who took a hat-trick in the previous game against Madhya Pradesh, returned with figures of 1-39 while left-arm spinner Saurabh Kumar took 1-24. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Punjab 205/5 in 20 overs (Anmolpreet Singh 47, Ramandeep Singh 43; Saurabh Kumar 1-24, Nitish Kumar Reddy 1-39) lost to Andhra 211/5 in 19.5 overs (M Hemanth Reddy 109 not out, SDNV Prasad 53 not out, Gurnoor Brar 3-23, Ayush Goyal 1-37) by five wickets Article Source: IANS
Longest property dispute ends: Punjab Haryana HC rules for original allottee in Faridabad land case
A 62-year-old property dispute in Faridabad has concluded. The Punjab and Haryana High Court ruled in favor of the original allottee's family. They will receive a 5,103 sq ft plot purchased in 1963 for under 14,000. The land's current market value is nearly 7 crore.
Two Indian-origin youths from Punjab shot dead in targeted attack in Canada
CHANDIGARH: In a targeted attack, two Indian-origin youths from Punjab were shot dead in southeast Edmonton, Canada, by unidentified assailants. The deceased have been identified as Gurdeep Singh from Bareh village and Ranbir Singh from Uddat Saidewala village near Budhlada in Mansa, Punjab. According to information received by Gurdeeps family from his friend Arshdeep, the two were on their way to celebrate a friends birthday when they were allegedly fired upon in the early hours of Friday. Both youths had moved to Canada separately in pursuit of better career opportunities. The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) said it believes the incident was a targeted attack and has launched an investigation. In a statement, the EPS said it is investigating the suspicious deaths of two adult men in southeast Edmonton. Officers attempted life-saving measures until emergency medical services arrived, but both victims were pronounced dead at the scene. On Friday, December 12, 2025, at approximately 1:43 a.m., officers responded to reports of gunshots in the area of 32 Street and 26 Avenue. Upon arrival, officers located two males believed to be in their 20s suffering from gunshot wounds. EPS officers attempted lifesaving measures until EMS arrived and assumed care. Sadly, both men were pronounced dead at the scene. The EPS Homicide Section has taken over the investigation. Autopsies are scheduled for Tuesday, December 16, and Wednesday, December 17, 2025, the statement read. The statement further noted, Police are looking for a dark-coloured SUV that may have been in the area at the time of the shooting. Investigators are asking anyone in the area of Silverberry Road and 23 Avenue, as well as 34 Street and 29 Street, who may have dash camera or security footage from approximately 2 p.m. on Thursday, December 11, to 2:30 a.m. on December 12, 2025, to contact police immediately. Police believe this to be a targeted event. The investigation is ongoing.
Punjab road tragedy: Teacher couple die as car plunges into drain due to dense fog
An English teacher, Jaskaran Singh Bhullar, and his wife, Kanmaljit Kaur, tragically died in a road accident on Sunday morning. While driving to drop his wife for election duty, their car fell into a drain near Sangatpura village in Moga district. Police suspect fog as the cause of the accident, leaving the teacher fraternity in shock.
8% polling recorded till 10 a.m. in zila parishad, panchayat samiti elections in Punjab
The polling began at 8 a.m. amid tight security arrangements and is slated to continue till 4 p.m.; the counting of votes will take place on December 17.
Canada shooting: 2 Punjabi youths killed while heading to party; families mourn
Two young Punjabi students, Gurdeep Singh (27) and Ranveer Singh (18), were tragically shot and killed in Edmonton, Canada, while en route to a party. The victims, both from Mansa district, were reportedly shot while in their car. Canadian police are investigating the incident and have apprehended several Punjabi youths.
Chandigarh Diary: Kangana gives BJP rally in Himachal a miss
The BJP MP from Mandi and Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut recently skipped a massive party rally held at the Zorawar Stadium in Dharamshala, targeting the Congress governments three-year rule of corruption, lies, and administrative collapse. While all the other party MPs, such as Dr Rajeev Bhardwaj, Indu Goswami, and Sikandar Kumar, attended the event, Kangana was conspicuous by her absence. Also present were thousands of BJP supporters from across the state and party leaders, including state president Rajeev Bindal, state in-charge Shrikant Sharma, co-incharge Sanjay Tandon, leader of opposition Jai Ram Thakur, former Union minister Anurag Thakur, and former state president Suresh Kashyap. Kanganas absence generated far more attention. Korean womans Punjabi chat with Mann CM Bhagwant Mann was in for a pleasant surprise when a Korean woman, whom he met while heading a delegation to South Korea, spoke to him in fluent Punjabi. A video of Mann interacting with the woman is going viral on social media. The woman with folded hands introduced herself in Punjabi, saying, I am Simran Kaur, a daughter-in-law from Punjab. By the way, my real name is (Korean name). I am Korean Punjabi, my husband is a Punjabi. Then her husband said, It has been 20 years since our wedding. An impressed Mann asked who taught her Punjabi, to which she proudly replied, My in-laws. Sikhs should have 3-4 children: Jathedar Akal Takht acting Jathedar Kuldeep Singh Gargaj has urged Sikhs to have at least three to four children, as their population is in decline. In a video that has gone viral, he can be heard saying that producing one child is not a wise policy, The population of all the communities has swelled, but we (Sikhs) have not been able to match the growth. We should have at least 3 or 4 children in a family. This is not a conservative approach. We should think in this direction, he said in the presence of Sikh preacher Ranjit Singh Dhadrianwale.
Recruitment of research assistants in Punjab language dept cancelled
Ladakh archery team creates history at Sr Nal Cships, qualifies for National Games
Excelsior Sports Correspondent KARGIL, Dec 13: In a momentous achievement for the Union Territory of Ladakh, the Ladakh Archery Team has delivered an outstanding performance at the Senior Archery National Championships held in Hyderabad, where 31 states competed. The team showcased exceptional talent and resilience, qualifying for the Round of 16 and registering a remarkable victory against Punjab. Advancing to the quarterfinals, the team fought a close battle against Andhra Pradesh, narrowly losing by just two points. Despite the narrow [] The post Ladakh archery team creates history at Sr Nal Cships, qualifies for National Games appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Punjab Gripped By Fear: Opposition Ahead Of Rural Body Polls
A day before rural polls in Punjab, incidents of crime in Jalandhar have been raised by the opposition to flag the law and order situation in the state.
Ladakh Archery Team Creates History at Senior National Championships, Qualifies for National Games
Kargil, December 12: In a momentous achievement for the Union Territory of Ladakh, the Ladakh Archery Team has delivered an outstanding performance at the Senior Archery National Championships held in Hyderabad, where 31 states competed. The team showcased exceptional talent and resilience, qualifying for the Round of 16 and registering a remarkable victory against Punjab. [] The post Ladakh Archery Team Creates History at Senior National Championships, Qualifies for National Games appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .
Punjab's new industry policy next month
Punjab is set to unveil a new industry policy next month. This policy aims to streamline project clearances, promising approvals within 5 to 45 days. A new Private Industrial Park Policy will also be introduced, enabling private sector participation. These initiatives are expected to boost investment and business growth in the state.
In Punjab, captain sulks in BJP, Sidhu in Congress
Punjab's political landscape is experiencing significant shifts. Navjot Kaur, wife of Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu, alleged ticket sales within the party. Meanwhile, former Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh, now with the BJP, expressed concerns about the party's top-down decision-making process. He noted a lack of consultation on Punjab-related matters.
Congress leader and former Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi alleged that the AAP Government in the State had printed fake ballot papers for the December 14 Zila Parishad and Block Samiti elections
Rahul Gandhi and Navjot Singh Sidhu are alike, want to be PM, CM before performing: Punjab CM Mann
CHANDIGARH: Taking a dig at his political rivals, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Saturday remarked that both senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and former Punjab Congress president Navjot Singh Sidhu are alike as they want to be elected Prime Minister and Chief Minister respectively without first doing something for the people. Addressing a press conference here, Mann said, They have the same problem, both want to become Prime Minister and Chief Minister before performing. Rahul Gandhi says make me Prime Minister, I will do something for the people. But people ask him, first do something, then we will make you the Prime Minister. It is the same with Navjot Sidhu. He says make me the CM, I will do something for Punjab. People ask him to do something for Punjab, then they will make him the chief minister. Without naming Sidhu, CM Mann asked, One of them is saying he should be the CM otherwise he will continue to work for television. I was also on TV, have I done a favour to Punjab by quitting? Mann went on to say that when Sidhu was a minister in the Congress government in Punjab, he could have done something for the welfare of the people if he had undertaken the responsibilities of his department. As local bodies minister, Sidhu could have addressed issues such as cleanliness, sewerage, street lighting and road conditions in cities and could have changed the face of cities, he said. Later, Sidhu was given charge of the power department. He accused the then CM Amarinder Singh of not allowing him to work. He should have prepared a proposal to give 600 units of free electricity to the public the way we did it, said Mann and added had then CM Amarinder rejected it, Sidhu could have projected himself as someone who wanted to provide free power. If Amarinder accepted it, Sidhu would have been a hero. If he rejected it, Sidhu would still have been a hero. It was a win-win situation, he said. Mann also referred to Amarinder's claim that Sidhu did not sign files of his department for nearly six months. Sidhu did not take responsibility of his ministry or the portfolio he was given. I have signed 12,500 files as I start signing files at 7.30 AM. These are the same officers, they bring a small truck to carry files signed by me, he said. Manns remarks came in the backdrop of the recent statement by former Congress MLA Navjot Kaur Sidhu, wife of cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu, who criticized the Congress leadership in Punjab. She had alleged a suitcase full of Rs 500 crore has to be given to become the chief minister in Punjab. She had said that her husband would return to active politics if the Congress declares him as the partys chief ministerial face in Punjab. She had further said they do not have money to give to any party but can transform Punjab into a golden state. She was later suspended by the Punjab Congress. Mann added that the 'Rs 500 crore' disclosure by Navjot Kaur had made everyone happy except Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa and Congress leader Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa. Channi was happy that he paid Rs 350 crore to become the CM, and he was able to save Rs 150 crore. The figure quoted by Navjot Kaur has made Rahul happy as he thinks the price tag has gone up. Warring, Randhawa and Bajwa are now unhappy as they feel the price has gone up and they have to find a way to try a shot, he added. Sidhu has not been active in the Congress for long and did not campaign in last years Lok Sabha elections. He made a comeback to cricket commentary during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season and launched his YouTube channel in April to share insights on cricket, lifestyle and other topics.
Punjab local body polls: CM Mann slams Congress, SAD for accusing AAP-govt of 'high-handedness'
CHANDIGARH: A day ahead of the local body polls in Punjab, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Saturday slammed the Congress and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) for accusing AAP government of high-handedness. He accused the parties of ellyaching after sensing defeat in the Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections. Targeting the Congress and SAD, Mann said they have accepted their defeat in the polls. They're aware that the people are not with them. That is why they have started alleging that AAP looted votes. Why can't they introspect? he quizzed. Mann further alleged that rival parties were forming alliances at the grassroots to counter AAPs influence. At many places, these rival parties are supporting common candidates against AAP. But the public will vote for AAP, the only party with credibility that delivers on promises, he said. We are seeking votes based on our works. But, they (opposition) are crying that their papers were snatched, he said. CM Mann hit out at former Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi, saying he made an irresponsible statement. Earlier, Channi had alleged that the AAP government in the state had printed fake ballot papers for the Zila Parishad and Block Samiti elections on December 14. Both the Congress and Akali Dal have accepted their defeat in the rural polls, but are accusing the AAP government of high-handedness against opposition candidates, Mann claimed. He added, The man who was CM for 111 days is making irresponsible statements that 100 pre-printed ballot papers are being used in each constituency. He has sensed defeat and is making such baseless allegations. It would do him good if he concentrated on arranging for the money to get the chief ministership or two deputy chief minister berths. He highlighted his government's work in the state -- 600 units of free electricity, availability of water for irrigation until the last mile, improved road connectivity, opening of mohalla clinics, and closure of 17 toll plazas. The public is impressed by our work on upgrading school infrastructure, setting up aam aadmi clinics, constructing 43,000 km of roads, ensuring water reaches the tail ends of irrigation channels, and promoting canal irrigation over tubewells, Mann said. Giving details of the zila parishad and panchayat samiti polls, Mann said out of 2,833 zones of block samitis, 340 AAP candidates, three Congress nominees and eight Independent candidates have been elected unopposed. If the ruling party was misusing official machinery, why would there be 2,433 Congress and 1,814 Akali candidates contesting Panchayat Samiti polls? If the Congress and independent candidates were elected unopposed, then wasn't there any high-handedness in these seats? Mann asked. He said, AAP has fielded candidates in all 347 Zila Parishad seats. Congress could contest only 331 seats, Akalis 298, and BJP 215. In Panchayat Samiti polls, AAP fielded candidates in 2,771 seats, Congress on 2,433, Akalis on 1,814, BJP on 1,127, and BSP on 195. Prospective candidates believe Congress is in political doldrums after prominent leaders failed to secure wins for their kin in various bypolls. A total of 1,396 candidates are contesting the Zila Parishad polls and nomination papers of these candidates were also accepted, he said.
First Do Something: Bhagwant Mann's Dig At Rahul Gandhi, Navjot Singh Sidhu
Bhagwant Mann said that when Sidhu was a minister in the Congress government in Punjab, he could have done something for the welfare of people.
Cash-strapped Punjab government hopes to generate Rs 3000 crore by selling land under OUVGL Scheme
CHANDIGARH: The cash-strapped AAP-led Punjab government, whose outstanding debt touched Rs 3.98 lakh crore till October this year, hopes to generate Rs 3,000 crore through monetisation. It has identified parcels of unused land to be developed and sold under the three-decade-old Optimum Utilisation of Vacant Government Lands (OUVGL) Scheme to fulfil its pre-poll promise of providing a Rs 1,100 per month honorarium to all women in the state. With only 14 months left for the Assembly elections, the move is aimed at tiding over the financial crisis. Most of these lands belong to the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL). Employees and officers of the corporation have now decided to launch a protest movement against the sale of power sector land and assets, saying it will severely compromise future expansion of critical infrastructure such as substations, transmission corridors and power projects. Sources said a meeting of the empowered committee of the OUVGL, headed by Chief Secretary KAP Sinha, was held on Thursday, during which the development costs and net revenue expected from disposing of several land pockets in Patiala, Bathinda, Amritsar, Ludhiana and Jalandhar were discussed. It is estimated that Rs 2,789 crore could be generated from the sale of these land parcels belonging to PSPCL, the Health Department, the Transport Department, MARKFED, the Punjab Mandi Board, the Punjab Agro Industries Corporation and the Punjab Khadi and Village Industries Board. Of the Rs 3,000 crore the state hopes to generate from the sale of these assets, the maximum revenue of Rs 2,219.58 crore is expected to come from six PSPCL properties in Patiala, Bathinda, Ludhiana and Jalandhar that are being considered for disposal. These properties are proposed to be transferred to urban development authorities. The meeting also reviewed progress in retrieving land from various departments for transfer to these authorities, sources said. Discussions were also held on transferring a 57.82-acre site in Mullanpur Garibdas village in Mohali from the Forest Department to the urban development authority. The land was first transferred to PUDA in March 2004, but in October 2010 the empowered committee of PUDA approved its transfer to the Forest Department as it fell under a green belt where a nature park was later developed after compensatory afforestation. About 19 acres of the land were left untouched as they were encroached upon. As the land is not classified as forest land and was only used for compensatory afforestation, the government believes it can now be used for other activities. In lieu of this, compensatory afforestation would be carried out on a parcel of government land in Ludhiana, sources said. Meanwhile, officers and employees from various unions and associations of the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited held a meeting. After detailed deliberations, all unions unanimously resolved to launch a joint protest movement against the sale of power sector land and assets. They expressed deep concern that the sale of valuable land would severely compromise future expansion of critical infrastructure such as substations, transmission corridors and power projects. The unions demanded that the government immediately withdraw the proposal and warned that any attempt to harm or compromise power sector assets would trigger immediate and statewide protests.
Three Indo-Canadian truck drivers arrested after tow-truck shootout in Brampton
CHANDIGARH: Three Indian-origin Punjabi truck drivers have been arrested by Canadian police following a shootout between two rival tow-truck groups in Brampton, Ontario. A search is underway for a fourth suspect. Releasing video footage of the incident, Peel Regional Police said they had arrested three men from Caledon in connection with a tow-truck-related shooting in Brampton and were seeking one remaining suspect. The shooting occurred at around 10.45 pm local time on 7 October in a parking lot near the intersection of McVean Drive and Castlemore Road. Firearms were discharged during the incident, and one individual sustained minor physical injuries. Police said the gunshots were fired during an altercation between two separate groups. In a statement, Peel Regional Police said: Following a lengthy investigation, investigators identified three individuals associated with one of the involved groups. On 20 November, police executed a search warrant at a residence in Caledon. As a result, investigators located and arrested the following suspects. Manjot Bhatti (26) was charged with intentionally discharging a firearm recklessly, possession of a loaded prohibited or restricted firearm, careless storage of a firearm, carrying a concealed weapon, knowledge of unauthorised possession of a firearm, and being an occupant of a motor vehicle knowing there was a firearm. He was held pending a bail hearing at the Ontario Court of Justice in Brampton and has since been released on bail. Navjot Bhatti (27) and Amanjot Bhatti (22) were charged with being occupants of a motor vehicle knowing there was a firearm. Both were released on undertakings with conditions and are required to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice in Brampton at a later date. Investigators are continuing efforts to identify individuals from the other group involved, particularly the outstanding suspect who is believed to have discharged a firearm, as shown in released images. The suspect is described as a South Asian male wearing a black jacket, blue jeans and white running shoes.
Navjot Kaur asks CM Mann to provide her security
Navjot Kaur Sidhu questioned CM Manns silence over the issues she raised with Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, and accused him of facilitating liquor and mining mafia
A 17-year-old boy, nephew of former Jalandhar West MLA Sheetal Angural, was fatally stabbed in Jalandhar. The victim, Vikas Angural, was attacked by a man identified as Kalu and accomplices. The former MLA alleges the main accused is a drug peddler, highlighting the area's drug problem. Police are investigating the incident.
BJP leader Amarinder Singh calls BJP rigid, praises Congresss flexibility
Punjab is a different area. Look at it, everywhere the BJP is pulling through, why not in Punjab? See previous elections, how many seats have some, hardly any, says Captain Amarinder
Channi accuses ruling AAP of planning bogus voting in Punjab local elections
Puri brothers shine at 63rd National Roller Skating Cship
Excelsior Sports Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 12: Kartikeya Puri and Puneesh Puri delivered outstanding performances at the 63rd National Roller Skating Championship 2025, held in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh from December 5 to 15, bringing glory to Jammu & Kashmir. Senior athlete Kartikeya Puri clinched a Gold Medal in the 3000m Road Race, dominating the competition, while Saamrjot Singh (J&K) secured silver and Daikin Mittal (Punjab) took bronze. Kartikeya also earned a Bronze Medal in the highly competitive 500+D Rink Race, showcasing [] The post Puri brothers shine at 63rd National Roller Skating Cship appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
BJP aiming to have party CM in Punjab: Manoranjan Kalia
Poll audio row has eroded perception of police fairness: State Election Commission to Punjab DGP
Illegal Detention, Local Bodies Polls: Court Setbacks For Punjab Government
The Aam Aadmi Party government in Punjab has been hit by two sharp setbacks in a span of days.
Ranveer Singhs Dhurandhar, a spy action thriller directed by Aditya Dhar, has not only impressed audiences with its gripping narrative and stellar cast but also revealed an unexpected connection to the 2014 video game Far Cry 4. The link revolves around the Punjabi folk song 'Jogi,' originally recorded in 1995 and later remixed in 2003, which features both in the game and the film.
Ricky Ponting has explained Punjab Kings' decision to release several major overseas players ahead of the IPL 2026 Auction. The PBKS head coach outlined the franchise's strategy, the reasoning behind the exits, and how these moves fit into the team's long-term auction planning.
Navjot Kaur Sidhu Targets Bhagwant Mann, Alleges 'Land Grab' In Shivalik Belt In Letter To Governor
Navjot Kaur Sidhu wrote to Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, accusing CM Bhagwant Mann of legalising alleged land grab in the prohibited Shivalik range.
Punjab wicketkeeper-batter Salil Arora has grabbed attention with a blistering 39-ball hundred in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, just days before the IPL 2026 Auction. His explosive knock has intensified buzz around his prospects and elevated his profile among franchises.
Over 280 teaching vacancies are open across major institutions, including Gauhati University, CGPSC, Delhi University colleges, and Punjab Engineering College, with deadlines in December 2025. Posts range from assistant professors to faculty roles across disciplines. Eligible candidates with postgraduate, M.Phil, Ph.D, or medical qualifications can apply through official websites before the respective closing dates.
SMAT: Haryana Defeats Rajasthan, Kushagra Helps Jharkhand Chase Down 236 Against Punjab
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Super: Haryana opened their Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Super League campaign with a commanding sevenwicket win over Rajasthan, while Kumar Kushagra slammed an unbeaten 86 to help Jharkhand chase down a massive 236 against a formidable Punjab. At the MCA Stadium, fast bowlers Anshul Kamboj and Ishant Bhardwaj set the tone by sharing four wickets between themselves to restrict Rajasthan to 132/8. In reply, captain Ankit Kumars fluent 41ball 60 sealed the chase with 22 balls to spare. After electing to field first, Haryana made immediate inroads as Rajasthan lost four wickets inside the PowerPlay. Kunal Singh Rathore fell cheaply, while Deepak Hooda was run out without scoring in bizarre fashion. Shubham Garhwals 33 and Mahipal Lomrors unbeaten 37 offered resistance, while Rahul Chahar chipped in with 20 runs down the order. But the innings never recovered from the early collapse. Kamboj and Bhardwaj finished with identical figures of 2-24. Chasing 133, Haryanas top order ensured there were no early setbacks. Ankit forged stands of 37, 52 and 40 with Aarsh Ranga, Yashvardhan Dalal and Himanshu Rana to keep the scoreboard moving. His knock, laced with eight fours and a six, was his third fifty of the tournament as Haryana cruised home in a modest chase. Meanwhile, at the DY Patil Academy in Ambi, Jharkhand scripted history by overhauling Punjabs 235/6 and set a new record for the highestever chase in the history of the competition. Kushagras unbeaten 86 came off 42 balls, as Jharkhand romped home with six wickets in hand and 11 balls to spare. Punjabs innings was built around a blistering knock from wicketkeeperbatter Salil Arora, who smashed 125 off just 45 deliveries, including reaching his hundred in 39 balls. After his fireworks, Jharkhands response was equally emphatic. Skipper Ishan Kishan struck 47 off 23 balls to set the tone for the successful chase, before Kushagra stitched crucial partnerships with him, Anukul Roy and Pankaj Kumar to secure Jharkhands eighth consecutive win in the tournament. Punjabs innings was built around a blistering knock from wicketkeeperbatter Salil Arora, who smashed 125 off just 45 deliveries, including reaching his hundred in 39 balls. After his fireworks, Jharkhands response was equally emphatic. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Punjab 235/6 in 20 overs (Salil Arora 125 not out, Naman Dhir 27; Sushant Mishra 2-47, Bal Krishna 2-66) lost to Jharkhand 237/4 in 18.1 overs (Kumar Kushagra 86, Ishan Kishan 47; Ramandeep Singh 1-37, Sanvir Singh 1-40) by six wickets Article Source: IANS
Expat pays homage to Dubai with mini Burj Khalifa in Punjab
Punjab: In Ludhianas Jagraon, atop a modest house sits an unassuming 14-foot miniature Burj Khalifa statue, crowned with a UAE flag to complete the replica look. A 28-year-old Sukhvir Dhillon commissioned the art piece to pay homage to the country that gave him a stable job and income. Dhillon, who works as ground staff at 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 .
Chitkara Law School , Chitkara University, Punjab, successfully celebrated Constitution Week from 24th to 26th November 2025, a three-day academic initiative designed to deepen constitutional awareness and engage students in meaningful discourse on democratic values. The celebration featured an Open Public Discourse Competition, a vibrant Poster Making Competition, and an exciting Quiz Competition on Constitutional Law, all of which saw enthusiastic participation and showcased students’ creativity, knowledge, and analytical skills. Students and faculty of Chitkara Law School unite in celebrations of Constitution Week 2025, marking 75 years of the Indian Constitution The highlight of the Week was the Constitution Day Celebration on 26th November 2025 at Carnegie Hall, Rockefeller Block, marking 75 years of the Indian Constitution. The event was graced by the Hon’ble Chief Guest Justice Gyan Sudha Misra (Retd.). A ceremonial Guard of Honour and lamp-lighting marked the beginning of the program, followed by a welcome address. Justice Misra delivered a powerful keynote address on “ 75 Years of Justice and the Evolving Position of Women in India .” She highlighted constitutional safeguards for women, key legislative reforms such as amendments to the Hindu Succession Act, and the journey of women’s empowerment across physical, emotional, and equality-based dimensions. Her reflections on the evolution of women’s rights from ancient times to modern India resonated deeply with the audience. The address was also broadcast live by Radio Chitkara. Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Pro-Chancellor, Chitkara University, lauded the initiative , stating, “Constitution Week reflects our commitment to nurturing informed, responsible, and socially conscious young citizens. At Chitkara University, we aim to instill in every student the values of justice, equality, and democracy that form the foundation of our nation .” The celebrations concluded with the announcement of competition results. In the Open Public Discourse Competition, Ms. Hatendar, Ms. Hanspreet, and Ms. Arshpreet Kaur secured the top three positions. In the Poster Making Competition, Ms. Suvercha emerged first, followed by Yashasvi Sharma and others. In the Quiz Competition, Team Kaushal (Arshpreet Kaur, Avantika, and Jashanjot) stood first, while Team Samriddhi (Khushi, Garima, and Gundeep) secured second place. The Week concluded on an inspiring note, celebrating active student participation and reaffirming the university’s commitment to constitutional literacy and civic learning. About Chitkara University Chitkara University is a distinguished private institution known for its commitment to fostering academic excellence, research, and innovation across various disciplines. With a focus on creating leaders of tomorrow, the university offers a wide array of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs that equip students with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to succeed in an ever-evolving global landscape. www.chitkara.edu.in
Winter vacation 2025: Check the full list of states that have announced holidays
Winter vacation dates for the 2025-26 academic year have been announced across various Indian states. Delhi and Haryana will observe a break from January 1-15, 2026. Other states like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Punjab have scheduled breaks starting in late December. Jammu and Kashmir will have extended winter shutdowns, while Kerala and Tamil Nadu are experiencing rain-related closures.
In Pictures: Former Union Minister Shivraj Patil (1935-2025)
The Congress leader was Union Home Minister from 2004 to 2008 and the 10th Speaker of the Lok Sabha from 1991 to 1996. He was the Governor of Punjab and also served as Administrator of the Union Territory of Chandigarh from 2010 to 2015.
Former Union minister Shivraj Patil passes away at 90
Senior Congress leader and former Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil passed away at his home town Latur in Maharashtra on Friday morning. Patil, 90, passed away at his residence 'Devghar' after a brief illness, family sources said. He is survived by his son Shailesh Patil, daughter-in-law Archana, who is a BJP leader, and two granddaughters. The Congress leader was Union Home Minister from 2004 to 2008 and the 10th Speaker of the Lok Sabha from 1991 to 1996. He was the Governor of Punjab and also served as Administrator of the Union Territory of Chandigarh from 2010 to 2015. Born on October 12, 1935, Patil began his political journey as municipal council chief of Latur and was elected as an MLA in the early 70s. Later, he went on to win the Latur Lok Sabha seat seven times. He lost to BJP's Rupatai Patil Nilangekar in the 2004 Lok Sabha elections. Known for his dignified conduct, he never indulged in personal attacks, neither in public speeches nor in private conversations, said a party leader. Patil was also known for his vast reading, meticulous study, and articulate presentation. His command over Marathi, English, and Hindi, along with his exceptional grasp of constitutional matters, made him a much-respected parliamentarian of his time, added the party leader.
Prosecution to demand three life terms for actor assault convicts in Kerala
KOCHI: The prosecution is set to seek three life terms for accused numbers one to six, who were convicted in the 2017 actor abduction case, with the Ernakulam Principal and Sessions Judge scheduled to conduct the sentencing hearing and pronounce the quantum of punishment on Friday. On December 8, the trial court found the first six accused, Sunil aka Pulsar Suni, Martin Antony, Manikandan B, Vijesh V P, Salim H aka Vadival Salim, and Pradeep guilty. The court acquitted actor Dileep, stating that the prosecution failed to establish the conspiracy charge against him. It also acquitted Charly Thomas, who had been charged with harbouring the offender; ninth accused Sanil Kumar alias Mesthiri Sanil, charged with conspiracy and aiding the crime; and 15th accused Sarath G Nair, charged with causing the disappearance of evidence. The prosecution will seek the maximum possible punishment for the accused, which is life imprisonment. The convicted accused could get life imprisonment for three major offences criminal conspiracy, gangrape, and abetment, Special Public Prosecutor V Ajakumar told TNIE. The court convicted them under sections 120B (criminal conspiracy), 342 (wrongful confinement), 354 (outraging modesty), 354B (assault with intent to disrobe), 357, and 376D (gangrape) of the IPC, as well as sections 66E and 67A of the Information Technology Act. According to the prosecution, on the night of February 17, 2017, six men abducted the actor while she was travelling from her home in Thrissur to Kochi. The men held her captive in her car and drove around Kochi, while Pulsar Suni, a history-sheeter, allegedly assaulted her. Suni recorded the act on his mobile phone. Later, the accused abandoned the actor near the house of film director Lal, who helped her contact the police. An FIR was registered the same day. Ajakumar said that he would cite the Supreme Court verdict in the case Nipun Saxena vs Union of India, as it accurately reflected the prevailing social reality. The 2018 judgment stated: Unfortunately, in our society, the victim of a sexual offence, especially a victim of rape, is treated worse than the perpetrator of the crime. In the State of Punjab vs Ramdev Singh case, the Supreme Court had observed that sexual violence, apart from being a dehumanising act, is an unlawful intrusion into the right of privacy and sanctity of a female. Ajakumar added that this argument is being put forward to ensure the maximum punishment for the convicts. When asked about filing an appeal before the Kerala High Court, Ajakumar said the prosecution is awaiting a copy of the final verdict, which will be released on Friday. Once the judgment is received, they will examine the reasons for acquittal and identify grounds for appeal. 2017 Kerala actor abduction case: Probe team pins hope on higher courts Verdict letter posted from Ernakulam The police have obtained information about the sender of the anonymous letter alleging a leak of details from the 2017 actor abduction and sexual assault case. According to the police, the letter, sent via Speed Post, was posted by a man from a post office under the jurisdiction of the Ernakulam police station. CCTV visuals show the man, wearing a mask, arriving at the post office at 1.42 pm on December 3. He had sent 33 Speed Post envelopes. The from address on the letter was given as Ramkumar.https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/kerala/2025/Dec/10/actor-abduction-and-sexual-assault-case-conspiracy-or-not-many-questions-need-answers Actor abduction and sexual assault case: Judgment comes after eight years, justice not yet Actor abduction and sexual assault case: Conspiracy or not, many questions need answers
Be non-aligned, appear impartial: High court to Punjab State Election Commission on rural polls
Over 64% of Punjabs sanctioned BBMB posts vacant: Centre tells Parliament
Atmosphere of fear prevailing in Punjab: State Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring
SGPC slams Punjab govt for missing saroops FIR, asks Akal Takht to issue orders
Congress high command steps in after Navjot Kaur Sidhus Rs 500 crore for CM post remark sparks row
CHANDIGARH: The Congress high command has stepped in to defuse the crisis triggered by former Punjab MLA Navjot Kaur Sidhus remark on Rs 500 crore for CM post, with senior party leader Rahul Gandhi calling a meeting with AICC general secretary in-charge of Punjab affairs Bhupesh Baghel and other senior leaders later this week to discuss the issues. Meanwhile, Punjab Congress president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring met Baghel on Thursday. Sources in the party claimed that a high-level committee will look into the conflict arisen in the state unit as part of the damage control exercise. While senior leader Rahul Gandhi had called a meeting with the AICC general secretary in-charge of Punjab affairs and other senior leaders later this week to discuss the issues, the leadership did not want the crisis to deepen amid the ongoing Parliament session. Sources further claimed that the high command has formed a panel headed by Baghel to examine the remarks in detail and the committee has been asked to submit a comprehensive report at the earliest. The party leadership is upset over the public outbursts as 14 months remain for the assembly polls. While the high command has advised both sides to rein themselves in, former state unit chief Navjot Singh Sidhu has stayed away from the controversy till now, and only his wife Kaur has been hitting out at Warring. Punjab Congress president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring met Punjab in-charge Bhupesh Baghel at the AICC headquarters in Delhi. Talking to the media, Baghel said, Any leader how much of tall stature he or she might be but is bided by the party discipline, immediately action was taken, indiscipline will not be tolerated. She was suspended from the primary membership of the party it is big action. Meanwhile, Warring maintained a cautious stance and refrained from commenting on internal party disciplinary matters. He did not comment when asked about the suspension of former Punjab MLA Navjot Kaur Sidhu from the party. I do not want to interfere in who is doing what. I will only say that once a matter has been concluded, there should be no further discussion on it, he said. Warring added that the meeting was related to the working of the party. Navjot Singh Sidhu is likely to meet Priyanka Gandhi Vadra next week after seeking time from the party leadership. It is learnt that he wants to present his side before the high command takes any further action, claimed sources. Kaurs suspension from the party has fueled speculation about differences in leadership style and influence as tensions within the Punjab Congress have surfaced between state president Warring and Kaur.
Over 100 booked, 40 detained in protest against proposed ethanol plant in Rajasthan's Hanumangarh
JAIPUR: Farmers in Rajasthan's Hanumangarh district continued their protest against an under-construction ethanol factory for the second consecutive day. From early morning, farmers began assembling at a gurdwara near Tibbi, even as internet services in the region remained suspended for the second consecutive day. Around 30 families living near the plant site have left their homes due to fear. Violence after farmers storm site The situation escalated sharply on Wednesday when hundreds of farmers stormed the construction site of Dune Ethanol Private Limited in Rathikheda village. The protesters broke a section of the boundary wall and set fire to offices and several vehicles. When police intervened, clashes broke out. Security personnel resorted to lathi-charge and tear gas, which further angered the crowd. Protesters torched more than a dozen vehicles, including a police jeep. More than 50 people, including women, were injured in the violence. Congress MLA Abhimanyu Poonia suffered a head injury and was taken to the district hospital. Schools, colleges, and markets remained shut on Wednesday due to the unrest. Administration defends plant approvals Hanumangarh Collector Dr. Khushal Yadav said that the ethanol plant had received all required permissions. He noted that the project was approved during the Rising Rajasthan Summit in 2022 and had obtained all clearances, from land conversion to pollution control. He stated that while permission had been granted for a peaceful gathering, anti-social elements violated prohibitory orders and marched toward the factory. People took the law into their own hands. Action is being taken against those involved, he added. More than 107 farmers and villagers have been booked in connection with the December 10 violence. Forty of them have been taken into custody. Heavy deployment, fragile calm Additional forces from the police, Rajasthan Armed Constabulary (RAC), and Home Guards have been stationed in Tibbi and Rathikheda. Shops reopened on Thursday and the situation appeared calmer, but groups of farmers continued to gather at the gurdwara. A crucial meeting was scheduled for the afternoon to decide the next course of action. Several injured women spent the night at Gurdwara Singh Sabha. Leaders of the Congress, CPI(M), and farmer organizations from Haryana and Punjab have extended support to the movement. Protest leaders blame administration Ravjot Singh, a leader of the Factory Removal Struggle Committee, claimed that more than 70 people were injured in Wednesdays clash. Over 100 farmers stayed overnight at the gurdwara, and more joined on Thursday morning. Congress leader Shabnam Godara blamed the administration for the violence, saying the situation worsened because authorities refused to provide written assurance that construction would be halted. She alleged that officials had misled people by making claims about employment opportunities. Demand for environment clearance and public consent Farmer organizations have vowed that the factory will not be allowed to operate until fresh environmental clearances are obtained and the consent of local residents is ensured. Chandigarh-based Dune Ethanol Private Limited, which is constructing the grain-based plant, maintains that the project will support the central governments Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) programme by boosting ethanol production.
A daily wage worker in Punjab's Faridkot, who had been buying lottery tickets for nearly two years, finally won the prize of Rs 1.5 crore. But Nasib Kaur, her husband Ram Singh and the family went into hiding after they hit the jackpot. The police team in Faridkot immediately reached out to the family to provide reassurance and protection.
Alia Bhatt honoured by Golden Globes at Red Sea Film Festival
Los Angeles: Bollywood actress Alia Bhatt and Tunisian actress Hend Sabry were honoured by Golden Globes at a glitzy gala dinner during the fifth edition of Saudi Arabias Red Sea Film Festival. Alia has earned critical acclaim and box-office success for standout performances in films such as Highway, Raazi, Udta Punjab, Dear Zindagi and Gangubai 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 .
J&K: Man Absconding for 10 Years in Rash Driving Case Arrested in Kathua
JAMMU, Dec 11: Police on Thursday arrested a man who had been absconding for nearly 10 years in a rash driving case in Jammu and Kashmirs Kathua district. The accused, Jagraj Singh of Gurdaspur district in Punjab, was wanted in a case registered under Sections 279 (rash driving) and 337 (causing injuries) of the IPC [] The post J&K: Man Absconding for 10 Years in Rash Driving Case Arrested in Kathua appeared first on Northlines .
Man On Run For 10 Years In Rash Driving Case Arrested In J&Ks Kathua
JAMMU, Dec 11: A man, who had been on the run for 10 years in a rash driving case, was arrested in Jammu and Kashmirs Kathua district on Thursday, police said. The accused, identified as Jagraj Singh, a resident of Punjabs Gurdaspur district, was wanted in connection with a case registered under Sections 279 (rash driving) and 337 (causing injuries) of the Indian Penal Code at the Hiranagar police station, they said. Singh had been evading arrest since 2015, they [] The post Man On Run For 10 Years In Rash Driving Case Arrested In J&Ks Kathua appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Man shot dead in court's parking lot in Punjab
CHANDIGARH: A man was shot dead by three car-borne assailants in the parking lot of a court in Abohar in Punjab's Fazilka district, where he had come for a hearing in an Arms Act case, police said. Akash alias Golu Pandit, a resident of Abohar, was rushed to the hospital, where he succumbed, police said. Fazilka Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Gurmeet Singh said the three assailants came in a car and one of them opened fire at Akash, who had come to court for a hearing in an Arms Act case. Six rounds were fired at Akash, the officer said. Police said the assailants have been identified and efforts are on to nab them.
