Drug addict couple held for selling their 6-month-old child; infant recovered
CHANDIGARH, Oct 25: A couple, allegedly addicted to drugs, sold their six-month-old son to a scrap dealer in Punjabs Mansa district, and spent part of the money on purchasing drugs, police said on Saturday. The case came to light after the childs maternal aunt approached the police, an official said. The police have recovered the child and booked both the families under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The officer also said the couple has been arrested. [] The post Drug addict couple held for selling their 6-month-old child; infant recovered appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Drug addict couple in Punjab's Mansa sells off their infant for Rs 1.8 lakh, arrested
CHANDIGARH: A drug-addict couple from Akbarpur Khudal village in Mansa district of Punjab allegedly sold off their six-month-old son to the scrap dealer in nearby Budhlada town for Rs 1.8 lakh. They have also sold off their household belongings and used part of the money to buy drugs. Punjab Police has registered a case of child trafficking against four people, including the parents. Three, including the biological parents, have been arrested, while one accused remains absconding. The case came to light after the childs maternal aunt approached the local police, seeking help to reunite the infant with his biological parents. Sources said that the mother was a wrestler who got hooked on drugs after marriage, as her husband was a habitual user. The couple, who met on Instagram, now live in penury, with a makeshift kitchen set up on the floor of their houses verandah. They were unable to raise their child and decided to give him away through godnama' (adoption deed) over a month ago, and allegedly took Rs 1.8 lakh to the scrap dealer, who already has three daughters, and showed interest in adopting the boy child. He reportedly told them that he would take care of the child if they could not. This deal was revealed a few days ago when they realised their mistake and wanted to have their son back. The couple used the money to buy drugs, a few household goods, and to reclaim their mortgaged motorcycle, said sources. Sometime back, the police got the couple registered at the outpatient opioid assisted treatment (OOAT) at Bareta. A villager said, We requested them several times to mend their ways, but they did not listen. Meanwhile, yesterday a large number of villagers in Budhlada subdivision turned up at the local police station and wanted the baby be returned back. But the scrap dealer insisted that he had gone through the legal adoption process. Godnama' is a legal transfer of a child from the biological parents to the adoptive parents, usually carried out among relatives, and confers the adoptive parents with all the rights and responsibilities that a natural parent would have. Senior police officials confirmed that a First Information Report (FIR) has been registered under child trafficking and related charges, and further investigations are underway to determine if the accused were linked to a wider trafficking network. Senior Superintendent of Police of Mansa Bhagirath Singh Meena said that the police are thoroughly investigating and verifying the matter. District Child Protection Officer Harjinder Kaur said that they have verified from reliable sources that the drug-addict couple handed over their child to a family in Budhlada about a month ago. Both families even signed a Godnama, Kaur said. She said, given the couples condition, the child could not be immediately returned to them due to safety concerns. The final decision on whether the child remains with the family that adopted him or is taken into our custody will be made by higher officials, she added. Meanwhile, the Punjab Commission for Protection of Child Rights has issued a notice to the SSP of Mansa and asked him to recover the child, and hand him over to the Child Welfare Committee. The Chairman of the Commission, Kanwardeep Singh, said that the police have been directed to take action against the couple and the family that received the child, and file a report by October 31. Action has been taken under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.
Belgian Court clears Mehul Choksis extradition to India in Rs 13,000-crore PNB scam
A Belgian court has given the green light for the extradition of fugitive diamantaire Mehul Choksi to India, marking a decisive step forward in the Rs 13,000 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case. The Court of Appeal in Antwerp ruled that the charges against Choksi ranging from fraud to forgery and corruption qualify as [] The post Belgian Court clears Mehul Choksis extradition to India in Rs 13,000-crore PNB scam appeared first on India Legal .
Chandigarh Diary | Vikramaditya rejects royal titles for himself
Reflecting changing times, Himachal Pradesh PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh, scion of the Bushahr royal family and son of former six-time chief minister, the late Virbhadra Singh, has appealed to the public to stop addressing him as ``Raja Ji or Tikka Ji. In a social media post, he wrote,`many people call me `raja ji or `tikka ji with affection and respect. I am grateful to you for this affection, but over time, societys thinking has moved forward. Such addresses are certainly part of our glorious history, but in todays age, they are not needed. My only humble wish is that you all call me by my name. Union minister counters AAP flak on flood relief While countering Punjabs AAP governments criticism on flood relief, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who was in Ludhiana recently to attend the programme at the Indian Institute of Maize Research, made a pointed remark that his visits to Punjab were not for tourism purposes, but to bring relief from the Centre for the states flood-hit areas. He recalled his earlier visit to Punjab when floods ravaged farms and houses. At that time, Prime Minister Narendra Modi immediately directed his ministers to visit the state and assess the ground situation, he said, adding that Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann should rise above politics. Haryana DGP flags excessive screen time Haryanas new DGP O P Singh recently converted a late-night accidental call from a child into a statewide public-safety advisory, broadening the policing lens to include the silent epidemic of digital addiction among children. He personally verified the callers well-being and also spoke briefly with the family. He then posted a short account of the interaction on X, using the moment to warn parents about excessive screen time. `` Let kids grow with mud on hands, not glass in palms, he wrote, emphasising the importance of outdoor play and real-world social interaction instead of addiction to digital devices, which disrupt sleep. Harpreet Bajwa Our correspondent in Chandigarh hsbajwa73@gmail.com
Yield down, moisture up: Punjabs paddy farmers stare at losses
Special committee to study cost-effective flood-protection models: Punjab minister
CHANDIGARH, Oct 24: A special committee will be constituted to visit other states and study innovative and economical flood-protection techniques suitable for Punjabs topography, the states Water Resources Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal said today. Chairing a meeting here, Goyal said such comparative studies would help in adopting cost-effective and practical methods to strengthen the states flood management infrastructure. He also issued strict directions to the department for the timely completion of all flood-protection and de-silting work ahead of the next [] The post Special committee to study cost-effective flood-protection models: Punjab minister appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Sexual harassment case against Punjab health minister transferred to special court
CHANDIGARH: The 21-year-old Indian-origin truck driver Jashanpreet Singh, accused of causing a semi-truck crash that left three people dead in the United States, belongs to Gurdaspur district of Punjab. His family has denied claims that he was intoxicated, stating that he is a Baptised Sikh (Amritdhari Sikh), and urged the Union Government to intervene to ensure no injustice is done to their son. Singh hails from Purana Shala village in Gurdaspur district. His family is in shock after learning about the incident. Singhs father, Ravinder Singh, a school bus driver, called allegations that his son was under the influence of drugs baseless, asserting that he never consumed drugs or any intoxicant. My son was not into drugs, he is an Amritdhari Sikh. The allegations of drugs against him are completely wrong, he said. Terming the accident very unfortunate and tragic he said, It was not done intentionally, while expressing his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. He urged the Union Government to intervene and requested support from the Akal Takht, the highest temporal seat of Sikhs, and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) to ensure no injustice is done to his son. As news of Jashanpreets arrest spread, villagers began gathering at his residence to express solidarity with the family. Meanwhile, the North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) expressed anguish and outrage over the horrific accident in California, which claimed three lives and injured several others due to the reckless actions of Jashanpreet. Satnam Singh Chahal, executive director of NAPA, said, This is a tragedy that should never have happened. It is shameful and deeply painful that an individual from our own community, who entered the country through illegal means, has brought such grief and disgrace. Three innocent souls have perished; this is not just a legal failure, but a moral collapse of the system that enables and exploits desperate youth. NAPA strongly condemned the incident and demanded that US and Indian authorities immediately investigate how an undocumented person could obtain a commercial drivers licence and operate a heavy vehicle on American roads. The organisation highlighted that such incidents expose the growing human smuggling crisis and the exploitation of Punjabi and Indian youth by unscrupulous travel agents and immigration rackets operating across both countries. Chahal added, Every month, we receive distress calls from families whose sons have vanished while trying to enter the US illegally. They sell land, mortgage homes, and risk their lives, only to become victims of traffickers or face tragedies like this. Enough is enough governments must act, not after people die, but before. Jashanpreet was arrested after a deadly collision in Ontario, California, which killed three people and injured at least four others. According to the California Highway Patrol, Singh was driving a speeding semi-truck and failed to brake before crashing into slow-moving traffic on Interstate 10 in San Bernardino County. Dashcam footage showed the truck never braking before impact. Toxicology tests confirmed that Singh was under the influence of a substance at the time of the crash. @ICEgov lodged an arrest detainer for Jashanpreet Singh, a criminal illegal alien from India, who took the lives of 3 individuals in a horrific DUI accident in San Bernadino County, California. Singh first entered the U.S. in 2022 through the southern border and was RELEASED pic.twitter.com/v5jtvwwuOo Homeland Security (@DHSgov) October 23, 2025 Sources alleged that Singh reportedly immigrated to the US illegally in 2022. The Department of Homeland Security stated that he was not a lawful immigrant and that ICE has lodged a detainer following his arrest. Singh now faces multiple charges, including gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. Singh was released under the Biden administrations 2022 alternatives to detention policy, according to authorities.
Punjab mins invite CMs to Gurus martyrdom anniv events
Punjab ministers invite Telangana CM to Guru Tegh Bahadurs 350th martyrdom anniversary
Chandigarh: Punjab Cabinet Ministers Sanjeev Arora and Gurmeet Singh Khudian on Friday paid a courtesy visit to Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy in Hyderabad and formally extended an invitation to him to participate in the commemorative events marking the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur. The event is scheduled to take place from November 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 .
Indian Railways starts playing Chhath songs at over 100 stations across nation
NEW DELHI: Ahead of Bihars Chhath festival, Indian Railways has introduced a unique arrangement of playing popular folk songs dedicated to the Chhath festival at over 100 prominent stations across the country. In the first phase, this initiative has been implemented at 30 different stations, where announcements of train departures or arrivals pause for a while. During these intervals, folk songs sung by well-known singers such as Sharda Sinha, Nitu Kumari Navgeet, Vindyavasni Devi and others are played when no train information is being broadcast over the automated announcement system. The Railways has started playing Chhatha songs at more than 30 stations in Bihar, including Patna, Danapur, Hajipur, Bhagalpur, Jamalpur, Sonepur and others. Similar arrangements for playing Chhatha songs have also been made at New Delhi, Ghaziabad and Anand Vihar Terminal, which are now witnessing heavy footfall of passengers travelling to Bihar and other Hindi-speaking states for the festival. Confirming this to the newspaper, ED (I&P) Dileep Kumar of the Ministry of Railways said on Friday, Indian Railways has started broadcasting Chhatha songs at railway stations on the auspicious occasion of Chhatha Puja. The aim of this initiative is to connect the passengers with the auspicious spirit of the festival and make their journey more pleasant. This has been launched at almost all those stations that now witness large numbers of Bihar-bound passengers travelling for the Chhatha festival across the country. Savita Kumari, a passenger travelling from Kolkata to Patna with her family members for the Chhatha festival, said These devotional songs being played at railway stations during Chhatha Puja surcharge the ambience of station with religious festivity for the devotees, who either remain in wait to take trains or boarding in trains. A senior railway official told the newspaper that the Chhatha folk songs being played make passengers feel the fragrance of their home and culture, thereby infusing devotion and joy into their journey even when they remain away from their states. Begun on Friday, the initiative through the automatic announcement system will continue for several days after the end of Chhatha, covering the period when passengers make their return journeys. Others stations such as Banaras, Gorakhpur and Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh, Kolkata, Burdwan, Durgapur and Asansol in West Bengal, as well as Ludhiana and Amritsar in Punjab, are among the hundreds of stations where this initiative has been introduced. Currently, Indian Railways is operating more than 12,000 special train trips to manage the surge of passengers travelling from across the country to states such as Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, where the Chhatha festival is celebrated on a large scale.
Kharif Crop in Telangana, Punjab, Rajasthan to Be Hit by Excess Rainfall
In the 2025 southwest monsoon, the Rainfall Distortion Index (RDI) is at the highest positive value of 18.7 in 14 years, compared with 17.9 in 2024 and a five-year average of 9.9, according to Crisil
Punjab CM Mann forms Flying Squad to check quality of road work in State
CHANDIGARH: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced the constitution of a new CM Flying Squad to check the quality of link roads being laid in the State. The flying squads would also check the quality of repair work on roads across the State. They will also carry out regular inspections to assess the quality of road construction and maintenance. Their objective is to detect irregularities, ensure compliance with technical standards, and maintain transparency in infrastructure development across the State. The squad includes senior officials from the Punjab Mandi Board and the Public Works Department (PWD). Superintending Engineers, Davinder Singh, Baldev Singh, Manpreet Singh Dua and Rajiv Saini would oversee the quality of construction work in the Malwa, Majha and Doaba regions of the State. CM Mann had recently launched an extensive repair project covering 19,492 km of link roads, beginning from Tarn Taran. The state government has allocated Rs 3,425 crore for this large-scale initiative to improve rural connectivity and road safety.
Data shows over 5,300 acres of land washed away in Punjab during recent floods
CHANDIGARH: More than 5,300 acres of land were washed away in 15 out of the 23 districts in Punjab during the floods that ravaged the state in August and September. Teams from the Union Government are expected to visit the state to assess the losses caused due to the floods. Sources said that the state government has completed the special girdawari of the flood-affected areas in the state, and found that 5,307 acres of land have been washed away due to heavy flow of water in the Ravi, Beas and the Sutlej rivers. The highest loss was in the Amritsar district, where around 1,515 acres were washed away, followed by the Ferozepur district, which lost 1,101 acres, as per data with the revenue department of the state government, said sources. Land was not washed away in Bathinda, Faridkot, Mansa, Muktsar, Sangrur, Barnala, Malerkotla, and Fatehgarh Sahib districts. In the past many decades, no one has ever witnessed or heard that such huge portions of land being washed away. A second assessment was done as when we got the initial data, no one could believe it. Now the affected land owners will be given compensation by the government, said an officer. It is learnt that, as per the norms from the State Disaster Response Fund, the owners who lost land will get a compensation of Rs 19,000 per acre. Sources added that most of the washed-away land was owned by private individuals, highlighting that the land had been encroached first and was later allotted to people by the successive state governments. Not only were these lands inside what was once a riverbed, but it was also at a throwaway price, prompting people to buy the land when the risk of floods was not grave. However, after many decades, rivers were in spate, which increased the risk of floods. Sources pointed out that illegal mining also contributed to the land being washed away, as both the AAP-led state government and the BJP-led central government have been at loggerheads over the issue of illegal mining in the riverbeds. Sources added that deep craters were developed on the affected land, making it uncultivable for another three to four years. They further said the central government teams will be visiting the state as the Punjab government has already submitted a memorandum requesting Rs 12,905 crores in compensation for flood-related losses. The Centre is assessing the extent of the damage and to verify the estimate sent by the state government, a team of experts from the union government will soon visit the state, said an officer. Earlier, the state government had drafted a memorandum seeking Rs 13,300 crore from the Centre for compensation and reconstruction, but was finally scaled down to Rs 12,905 crore.
Ranji Trophy: Ravindra Jadeja Among India Stars To Watch In Second Round
Sharad Pawar Cricket Academy BKC: With the second round of the 2025/26 Ranji Trophy set to commence on Saturday, left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is set to play for Saurashtra in their Elite Group B game at Rajkot, meaning he will be among the Indian team stars that fans can keep their eyes on for the next few days. In the previous match at the venue, spinners accounted for 31 of the 35 wickets to fall in the drawn encounter at the Niranjan Shah Stadium, where Saurashtra earned three points courtesy of a first-innings lead. Jadeja was resting after playing in Indias 2-0 home Test series win over the West Indies earlier this month and was not included in the squad for the ongoing ODI series in Australia. At Saurashtra, he will rejoin fellow left-arm spinner Dharmendrasinh Jadeja, who took a match haul of 10-203 against Karnataka. Jadejas return is expected to enhance the bowling attack with more depth and experience as Saurashtra aim to build on their early momentum. Another major clash in the second round will see Bengal facing Gujarat at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, where Mohammed Shami, Akash Deep, and Abhimanyu Easwaran will be in action. Shami, the veteran India pacer, had taken a match-winning seven-wicket haul in the win over Uttarakhand, and how he fares against a strong Gujarat bowling line-up will make for an interesting watch. The second round of the Ranji Trophy will feature 19 matches played across the country, in both Elite and Plate Divisions. Mumbai, fresh from an away victory against Jammu & Kashmir in Srinagar, will host Chhattisgarh in an Elite Group D match at the Sharad Pawar Cricket Academy BKC in Mumbai. Defending champions Vidarbha are set to face Jharkhand at the VCA Stadium in Nagpur. The Bengal-Gujarat clash will be broadcast on Star Sports Khel (TV) and JioHotstar (live streaming). The Saurashtra vs Madhya Pradesh game and Mumbai vs Chhattisgarh clash are also available for live streaming, with the rest of the games to be followed live on bcci.tv scoreboards page. Ranji Trophy 2025/26 second round schedule Plate Division games (with a start time of 9:30 am): - Meghalaya vs Sikkim - Meghalaya Cricket Association Cricket Ground, Shillong Manipur vs Bihar - Gokulbhai Somabhai Patel Stadium, Nadiad Arunachal Pradesh vs Mizoram - ADSA Railways Cricket Ground, Ahmedabad Elite Division games (with a start time of 9:30 am): - Group A Andhra vs Baroda - ACA Sports Complex, Vizianagaram Uttar Pradesh vs Odisha - Green Park, Kanpur Nagaland vs Tamil Nadu BCCI CoE Ground, Bengaluru Vidarbha vs Jharkhand VCA Stadium, Nagpur Group B Punjab vs Kerala New PCA International Stadium, New Chandigarh Chandigarh vs Maharashtra - Sector 16 Stadium, Chandigarh Karnataka vs Goa - KSCA Navule Stadium, Shivamogga Saurashtra vs Madhya Pradesh Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkot Group C Assam vs Services - Tinsukia District Sports Ground, Tinsukia Bengal vs Gujarat - Eden Gardens, Kolkata Uttarakhand vs Railways - Kaushiki Cricket Ground, Jim Corbett Haryana vs Tripura - Chaudhary Bansi Lal Stadium, Rohtak Group D Jammu & Kashmir vs Rajasthan - Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium, Srinagar Mumbai vs Chhattisgarh - Sharad Pawar Cricket Academy, BKC, Mumbai Jammu & Kashmir vs Rajasthan - Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium, Srinagar Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Puducherry vs Hyderabad - Cricket Association Puducherry Siechem Ground, Puducherry Article Source: IANS
Sonam Bajwa: Ive learned from my mistakes
Punjabi star Sonam Bajwa, a decade-long presence in successful films, has now ventured into Bollywood with multiple Hindi projects. Previously, she expressed faith in divine timing for bigger opportunities, emphasizing her dedication to craft. Her current expansion beyond Punjabi cinema, while retaining her core values, validates her earlier sentiments and showcases her growth as an actor.
Investigators are searching for a diary containing a dying declaration in the mysterious death of Aqil Akhtar, son of former Punjab DGP Mohammad Mustafa. The FIR names Mustafa, his wife, daughter, and daughter-in-law. The post-mortem was inconclusive, with viscera analysis awaited. The family is expected back for questioning soon.
Is Punjabs stubble burning problem really declining? | Explained
Are fewer fires hiding larger burnt areas? How do satellite limitations affect the accuracy of fire detection?
Ranchi Diary | Drones used to smuggle weapons from Pakistan
The Jharkhand police have found that weapons are being smuggled into the state from Pakistan through drones. Cops on Wednesday arrested five people, including a woman, for their involvement in an extortion racket and cross-border smuggling of weapons. According to Ranchi City SP Paras Rana, following a detailed round of interrogation, the arrested persons told the investigators that the Sujit Sinha and Prince Khan gangs procure weapons from Pakistan through drones via Moga (Punjab), which they use to extort money by spreading terror among big businessmen, capitalists and traders at various places across the country, including Ranchi. 4th SAAF Sr Athletics Cships from today The fourth South Asian Athletics Federation (SAAF) Senior Athletics Championships, scheduled to be held in Ranchi from October 24 to 26, will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Friday at the Birsa Munda Football Stadium in Morhabadi. According to Soren, who says hosting the championship is a matter of pride for Jharkhand, has directed officials to ensure that the event is conducted on a grand scale in a well-organised manner. Such international tournaments boost Jharkhands growing reputation in the field of sports and help the state build a distinct identity on the global stage, he said. Jharkhand HC seeks report on witchcraft cases The Jharkhand High Court has taken suo motu cognisance of media reports on the killing of three members of a family in Lohardaga, including a nine-year-old child, on the suspicion that they practised witchcraft. The court has also sought details of cases registered under the Witchcraft Prevention Act, 1999, in the last two years. Further, it has directed the government to provide all information on the status of investigation of the cases registered in this regard. The HC has directed the listing of the present case along with the records related to PILs filed in 2012 and 2015 related to similar cases. The court will hear the matter next on November 14. Mukesh Ranjan Our correspondent in Jharkhand mukesh.r@newindianexpress.com
CBI conducts second round of searches at suspended Punjab DIGs residence
The fresh operation at Mr. Bhullar's Sector 40 residence came amid reports that he was not cooperating with the agency
Farm fires in Punjab cross 500, 32 fresh FIRs take total to 215
Stubble Burning Cases Cross 500 Mark in Punjab: PPCB Data
Officials urge farmers to stop burning crop residue.
CBI conducts second round of search at residence of suspended Punjab DIG Bhullar in bribery case
CHANDIGARH: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) today carried out a second round of searches at the residence of suspended Deputy Inspector General of Police (Ropar Range), Punjab, Harcharan Singh Bhullar, who was arrested last week on bribery charges. During the raid, the CBI sleuths searched for CCTV camera footage, besides assessing the value of his house in Sector 40, Chandigarh. The fresh search came amid reports that he was not cooperating with the agency, sources said. Around 11 officers from Delhi searched Bhullars house in the presence of his family members, and the entire operation was videographed. The officials entered the house carrying documents, a camera, and a printer, inspecting and recording details of every item from utensils to electric bulbs across all floors of the house. The value of each item is being assessed to prepare a detailed inventory report. A day earlier, the CBI had opened Bhullars bank locker, from which several important documents were recovered. Sources said the investigation aims to assess assets allegedly disproportionate to his known sources of income. Bhullar was arrested on October 16 for allegedly accepting Rs 8 lakh in bribe from a scrap dealer as sewa pani. Subsequent searches led to the seizure of Rs 7.5 crore in cash, 2.5 kg of gold jewellery, 26 luxury watches (including Rolex and Rado brands), documents pertaining to more than 50 immovable properties held in the names of family members and suspected benami entities, locker keys, details of multiple bank accounts, and four firearms along with 100 live cartridges. According to the CBI FIR, the case was registered on a complaint filed by Akash Batta, a scrap dealer from Mandi Gobindgarh in Fatehgarh Sahib district. He alleged that Bhullar demanded illegal gratification through his middleman to settle a 2023 case registered against him in Sirhind and ensure no further coercive or adverse police action against his business. Batta further alleged that Bhullar had been demanding recurring monthly payments, referred to as sewa paani, and had threatened to falsely implicate him in business-related criminal cases in case of non-compliance. He claimed he had been booked on false allegations of using fake bills. Bhullar was arrested from his Mohali office following the complaint. A middleman identified as Kirshanu was also arrested, and Rs 21 lakh was seized from him. Bhullar, son of former Punjab Director General of Police M.S. Bhullar, was appointed DIG (Ropar Range) in November 2024. The Ropar Range comprises Mohali, Rupnagar, and Fatehgarh Sahib districts. He was suspended by the Punjab Government after his arrest.
'Deliberate Attempt To Malign Image': AAP On Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann's 'Deepfake' Video
AAP leader Baltej Singh Pannu said that the person behind the circulation of the fake video is based in Canada and already faces several fraud accusations.
Haryana may seek CBI probe into death of former Punjab DGP Mohammad Mustafas son
CHANDIGARH: The Haryana Government is likely to recommend the probe in the death case of former Punjab DGP Mohammad Mustafas son, Aqil Akhtar, to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Sources in the police said that one of the reasons for recommending the case to CBI is interstate jurisdiction. Earlier, on October 20, the Haryana Police had booked former Punjab DGP Mohammad Mustafa and his wife, ex-minister Razia Sultana, for allegedly killing their son Aqil Akhtar. Akhtars wife and sister are also accused in the case. Shamshuddin's complaint alleges that in the video, Akhtar had levelled serious charges against his family. The complainant has told police that he knows the family quite well. Meanwhile, Mustafa had said that his son had been a drug addict for the last 18 years and he had even suggested that he might have died due to a drug overdose. He often became violent due to his illness. The family had endured this mental suffering for years as his condition had worsened to the point where he did not understand what he was saying or doing, he had added. Regarding Akhtars video, he had commented that his son had posted it on social media on August 27 and deleted it two hours later. But some people downloaded it and were now misusing it to malign the family. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Panchkula Police probing the death case said that the cause of the fatality is yet to be ascertained and the viscera will now be sent for a chemical examination. Assistant Commissioner of Police of Panchkula, and SIT in-charge Vikram Nehra said, The post-mortem report has been received. Now, we will send the viscera for a chemical examination. Once that report comes, the cause of the death will be known. His medical history will throw light on whether he was suffering from a mental illness or not, and if he was, what kind of treatment was he subjected to and by whom. This is also a matter of investigation. We have begun investigations and his family members and those who were in touch with him will be called for the probe, he added. Nehra said a video purportedly shot by the deceased will also be examined by forensic experts. At the moment, we are focusing on the reason behind his death. Devices and documents related to the deceased will be examined and if we get any evidence based on that, we will take action, he said.
Pocharam Shootout Exposes Gun Menace in Hyderabad
Despite intensified crackdowns, illegal weapons continue to pour into the city from states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Punjab.
AAP alleges smear campaign as Mohali court acts on fake video of Bhagwant Mann
CHANDIGARH: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Thursday claimed that a Mohali court has issued notices to Facebook and Google to remove an objectionable video, alleged to be fake, related to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Further, the AAP accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of orchestrating a smear campaign. AAP Punjab leader Baltej Pannu called the circulation of the fake video as a desperate attempt at character assassination by rivals unable to find any corruption in nearly four years of AAP rule. Addressing a press conference, Pannu said the Mohali court had categorically declared the viral video fake and directed that all such content be removed from every platform, including Facebook and Google, within 24 hours. The court also ordered that the video must not appear even in search results, warning of strict legal action against those who fail to comply. The Mohali courts decision is clearthe video is fake, malicious, and a deliberate attempt to malign the image of the Chief Minister. The court has ordered its immediate removal and even directed Google to ensure it does not appear in searches, claimed Pannu. He alleged that the person responsible for spreading the fake content resides in Canada and already faces multiple allegations of fraud. This is the same individual who earlier tried similar tactics against a Union Minister. The outcome of that episode is known to everyonehis lies collapsed in public. Pannu further alleged that BJP-linked social media accounts amplified the fake video as part of a coordinated smear campaign. He also condemned BJPs Punjab Working President Ashwani Sharma for questioning why CM Mann had not responded publicly to the issue. The court verdict was delivered just yesterday. Now that the court itself has declared the video fake and ordered its removal, perhaps Sharma should question those who created and circulated it, not the one who has been wronged, Pannu said. AAP MP Malvinder Singh Kang named the originator of the campaign as Jagman Samra, who lives in Canada, and said that following the Mohali courts directions, an FIR had been registered against him. Facebook itself has deleted Jagman Samras account and the fake video following legal directions, Kang said, adding that the swift action proved the videos fraudulent nature. He also alleged the existence of a coordinated ecosystem of BJP-linked accounts that repeatedly push such propaganda whenever the party seeks to destroy a persons character. This entire troll ecosystem belongs to the BJP, Kang declared, claiming that senior BJP leaders and national spokespersons follow and amplify such accounts. AAP senior spokesperson Neel Garg said investigations had exposed that the video was circulated and amplified by several BJP leaders and affiliated accounts. The BJP countered that AAP had become frustrated and panicked after its Punjab unit chief Ashwani Sharmas tweet on the alleged viral video of CM Mann, accusing AAP leaders of making absurd and baseless statements. Punjab BJPs state media head Vineet Joshi, speaking to reporters at the party office, said that after 48 hours had passed, Sharma merely tweeted: The man who used to hold press conferences over every small issue is now silent on his alleged video? Punjab deserves an answer. Bhagwant Sahib, please give a clarification. Joshi questioned, What is wrong with that tweet? and reiterated, If the video is fake, then why is the Chief Minister silent? He added that the issue was not limited to one video but raised serious questions about the governments claims of honesty and morality. AAP had shown people dreams of clean politics, but now, when serious questions are being raised about their own Chief Minister, the entire team has been silent for two days, Joshi said. Joshi also hit out at AAP leaders Baltej Pannu and Malvinder Singh Kang, saying, These two leaders are always quick to point fingers at others, but now that the issue concerns their own party, their tone has changed. Raising questions about the FIR registered by the Cyber Cell, Joshi asked, When the Chief Minister is mentioned in the video, why hasnt his statement been included in the FIR? Is there pressure on the Cyber Cell, or is the government trying to suppress the matter?
Indian Trucker Arrested Over Deadly California Chain-Reaction Crash
The Punjab-origin truck driver has been arrested on charges of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, causing damage to eight cars in the fiery crash
Sairaj Bahutule brings in years of experience, having been a veteran of first-class cricket and a highly-regarded cricket coach. Read here to know more about him.
IPL: PBKS appoint ex-India cricketer as spin bowling coach
Punjab Kings has appointed former India leg-spinner Sairaj Bahutule as their new spin bowling coach for the upcoming IPL season, replacing Sunil Joshi. Bahutule, with extensive domestic and IPL coaching experience, expressed excitement to work with the team's talented players and enhance their skills. The franchise aims to build on their previous season's momentum with this experienced coaching addition.
Sairaj Bahutule joins Punjab Kings as spin bowling coach
The former Rajasthan Royals spin bowling coach replaces Sunil Joshi
PRTC and punbus employees protest kilometre scheme halting bus services across Punjab
Bus services across Punjab halted for ninety minutes as transport employees protested the government's kilometre scheme. The demonstration disrupted services, leaving thousands stranded. Employees demand a rollback of the scheme, accusing the government of backdoor privatisation. They seek regularisation of contractual staff instead of private operator involvement. The protest caused significant losses for PRTC.
Punjab Kings Appoint Sairaj Bahutule As New Spin Bowling Coach Ahead Of IPL 2026
Indian Premier League: Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Punjab Kings (PBKS) announced on Thursday that former India cricketer Sairaj Bahutule has joined as the new spin bowling coach ahead of the IPL 2026 season. Bahutule replaces Sunil Joshi, who held the role in PBKS from 2023 to 2025, and is now headed to join the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. IANS had previously reported on October 16 that Bahutule had joined PBKS after being with IPL 2008 champions Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the 2025 season of the competition. He had worked in the same capacity with RR from 2018 to 2021. I'm really excited to join Punjab Kings as a spin bowling coach for the upcoming IPL season. This is a team that plays a different brand of cricket, and I can see the potential is massive. They have a bunch of talented players, and I'm looking forward to working with them to refine their skills and help them reach new heights, said Bahutule in a statement. Bahutule, who played two Tests and eight ODIs for India, brings a wealth of experience to the PBKS setup holding coaching roles with domestic teams such as Kerala, Gujarat, Vidarbha, and Bengal, and being the spin bowling coach at the CoE for three years before concluding a short second stint with RR. We extend our sincere thanks to Sunil Joshi for his dedicated service and contribution to the Punjab Kings over the years. As we look forward, we are thrilled to welcome Sairaj Bahutule to our coaching staff. Bahutule, who played two Tests and eight ODIs for India, brings a wealth of experience to the PBKS setup holding coaching roles with domestic teams such as Kerala, Gujarat, Vidarbha, and Bengal, and being the spin bowling coach at the CoE for three years before concluding a short second stint with RR. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Bahutule joins the PBKS support staff, comprising head coach Ricky Ponting, assistant coach Brad Haddin, fast bowling coach James Hope and Trevor Gonsalves. His first task will be to give inputs on the franchises retained players, whose tentative deadline is November 15, and subsequently help in devising the strategy for IPL 2026 auction, to be held in mid-December this year. Article Source: IANS
Haryana Govt Seeks CBI Probe into Death of Former Punjab DGPs Son
PANCHKULA, Oct 23: The Haryana government has formally requested the Centre to hand over the investigation into the alleged murder of Aqil Akhtar, son of former Punjab IPS officer Mohammad Mustafa and former minister Razia Sultana, to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). A formal reference was made to the Union government on Wednesday, seeking [] The post Haryana Govt Seeks CBI Probe into Death of Former Punjab DGPs Son appeared first on Northlines .
24, Including 10 Kids, Severely Injured After Fireworks In House Catch Fire
About two dozen people were severely injured on Thursday after firecrackers stored inside a house in Punjab's Ludhiana suddenly caught fire.
AQI levels in parts of Punjab, Haryana remain in 'poor', 'very poor' category post Diwali
CHANDIGARH: Air quality in Punjab has further declined due to extended Diwali celebrations. Air Quality Index (AQI) in parts of the state was recorded in 'poor' and 'very poor' category. Similarly, air quality in parts of Haryana was recorded in the same categories, with Dharuhera in Rewari district the worst-hit in the state. The industrial town of Mandi Gobindgarh was the most polluted place in Punjab. As per the data with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI of Mandi Gobindgarh was 293 at 4 pm on Wednesday which falls in the very poor category. Punjab registered an average AQI of 215 against last years AQI of 265. The average AQI post Diwali was 207 in 2023, while it was 224 in 2022 and 268 in 2021. Punjab Pollution Control Board data showed that the average AQI was poor category after two days of firecracker bursting on Monday and Tuesday. In neighboring Haryana, the AQI in Dharuhera in Rewari district was at 338, Jind recorded 305 and Rohtak 302 which was in 'very poor' category. AQI breaches 400 on festive day, Delhi's air quality worsens Chandigarh (Union Territory), the common capital of Punjab and Haryana, recorded an AQI of 129. 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. An official of the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) said that they have compiled data related to the pollution level and divided it into three parts (pre-Diwali, Diwali and post Diwali) and found that the air quality was less impacted this year. The average AQI on October 19 was 117, while it was 151 on October 20 and 231 on October 21. It was lower than reported last year when the AQI the day before Diwali was 150 and 216 on Diwali day and 265, a day after the festival, he said. The PPCB has also compared the average AQI of Punjab and Delhi and found that the average AQI in the national capital in the past three days remained on a higher side. Delhis average AQI has been fluctuating between 296 and 351 over the past three days, he said. In the last two days, Punjab reported 107 crop residue burning. According to official data compiled from September 15 to October 21, Punjab has recorded 415 cases of farm fires this year. This marks a staggering decline from the 1,510 incidents reported in 2024 and 1,764 incidents in 2023 during the same critical period. The sustained and rigorous efforts by the civil administration and Punjab Police to prevent stubble burning has yielded significant results, with the state witnessing a near four-fold reduction in farm fire cases this year compared to the same period in the previous two years. Pertinently, complying with the directions of the Supreme Court and Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to bring down stubble burning cases to zero, Director General of Police Punjab Gaurav Yadav and Special DGP (Law and Order) Arpit Shukla have been personally monitoring the action against stubble burning. Yadav has also been holding meetings with all the senior officers, Range Officers, CPs/SSPs and Station House Officers (SHOs) to personally review the cases of stubble burning in the state on day to day basis. Special DGP, Arpit Shukla, said that Police teams along with civil administration have been making untiring efforts at the ground level to curb the menace of stubble burning in the state. He said that DCs, SSPs and SDMs and DSPs have been conducting joint tours in villages, which have been identified as stubble burning hotspots and holding public awareness meetings with various farmer unions at district and sub-divisional level. As many as 251 joint tours were made by DCs/SSPs and 790 joint tours were made by SDMs/DSPs in last few days, during which they held 2381 public awareness meetings; 1769 meetings were organised with the farmer unions. Apart from this, Parali Protection Force has also been constituted at Police Station level, which has been keeping vigil as well as sensitising farmers about the ill-effects of putting matchstick on the crop residue, said Shukla. He added that legal action is being initiated against those found burning stubble. Till now, 415 farm fires were detected by the Punjab Remote Sensing Centre (PSRC) in the state, and joint teams were sent for inspection on the spot, he said. He further said that police teams have registered FIRs in 172 cases and imposed penalties in 189 cases. Apart from this, he said that red entries have also been made in revenue records of 165 farmers.
Punjab Kings appoint veteran cricketer Sairaj Bahutule as new spin bowling coach
Punjab Kings have appointed Sairaj Bahutule as their new spin bowling coach for the upcoming IPL season. Bahutule replaces Sunil Joshi in the role. The former India cricketer brings extensive coaching experience with domestic teams and IPL franchises. Punjab Kings CEO welcomed Bahutule, highlighting his expertise in developing bowlers.
Fact-Check: This Video Doesnt Show Recent Visuals of Stubble Burning in Punjab
The video has been available on the internet since November 2024.
One killed in a blast at milk plant in Punjab's Ludhiana
The blast took place on Wednesday (October 22) night when the repair work on a boiler was underway
Blast at Verka milk plant in Punjab's Ludhiana, one dead
LUDHIANA: A blast occurred at the Verka milk plant on the Ludhiana-Ferozepur road here, leaving one person dead and five injured, police said on Thursday. The blast took place on Wednesday night when the repair work of a boiler was underway. The deceased has been identified as 42-year-old Kunal Jain. The injured were rushed to a hospital. They have been identified as Kulwant Singh, Puneet Kumar, Ajit Singh, Davinder Singh, and Gurtej. Assistant Commissioner of Police, Rajesh Kumar, said a probe is underway to determine the cause of the blast.
Xavier Bartlett: Check his early life, career stats, PBKS performance and more
Australian bowler Xavier Bartlett achieved a significant early career milestone by dismissing Indian star Virat Kohli for a duck at the Adelaide Oval. Ranked 132nd globally, Bartlett, who represents Punjab Kings in the IPL, has showcased promising form in his nascent international career, notably with impressive figures against the West Indies.
If I am guilty, I am ready to be hanged...: Punjab ex-DGP Mohammad Mustafa on FIR against family
Former Punjab DGP Mohammad Mustafa has broken his silence following his son Aqil Akhtar's death, attributing it to an 18-year struggle with drug addiction and an overdose. He dismissed foul play allegations as petty politics and vowed to cooperate with the investigation, stating he has done nothing wrong.
Former Punjab Police chief Mohammad Mustafa has vehemently denied allegations surrounding his son's death, calling them completely false. He welcomed the police case against him and his wife, former minister Razia Sultana, believing an investigation will eveal the truth.
Bihar polls brew hot at Punjabs chai stalls
Lord Vishwakarma is regarded as the 1st engineer: Punjab minister
Both AAP, BJP to blame for Punjab farmers crisis: Pargat
Punjab gets 3 new DCs in admn rejig
Punjab ministers invite Assam CM to Gurus 350th martyrdom anniversary
Farm fires in Punjab down to a third between Sept 15 & Oct 21
In a positive turn for Punjab's agricultural landscape, farm fires have plummeted this season. Between September 15 and October 21, there were only 415 incidents reportedsignificantly lower than the previous year's count. This decline can be attributed to the delayed paddy harvest caused by adverse weather conditions and effective initiatives like increased field surveillance and farmer education programs.
UP, Punjab Power Panel Chiefs Hail Ramappa Temple
Captivated by the temples beauty, the guests described the Unesco World Heritage Site as an architectural marvel that powerfully depicts the regions historical, cultural, and traditional heritage through its exquisite sculptures.
Four-fold decrease in farm fires this season: Punjab Police
69 new farm fires recorded across Punjab, tally up to 484
CHANDIGARH: A 19-year-old youth was killed and six members of his family, including two women, were injured in a blast at Dharmabad village in Dera Baba Nanak sub-division of Gurdaspur district during Diwali celebrations on Tuesday night. The youths were reportedly preparing firecrackers at home. The incident occurred around 10 pm on Diwali night. The deceased has been identified as Manpreet Singh, who succumbed to his injuries today at a hospital in Amritsar. His brother, Lovepreet Singh, remains in critical condition. Two sons-in-law of the family were also among the injured. According to villagers, it was a high-intensity blast that shattered window panes in the neighborhood. One family member lost both arms, and others sustained serious injuries. All the injured were admitted to different hospitals in Amritsar, with one reportedly losing eyesight. Gurinder Singh, a resident of the village, said the family was enjoying bursting firecrackers when the tragedy occurred. The youth purchased explosive substances, reportedly potassium and sulphur, in large quantities from an irresponsible seller. While preparing the firecracker, a big explosion took place, he said. Ex-sarpanch Jatinderpal Singh, who visited the hospital, described the injuries as critical. One persons jaw has been completely damaged. The elderly family members were in bed while the youth went to buy the chemicals. The negligence lies with both the buyer and the seller. Dangerous materials like these are being sold openly, and the local administration has failed to check it, he added, demanding strong action against the seller. The local police reached the village on Wednesday morning and began an investigation with forensic experts. Dera Baba Nanak Station House Officer (SHO) Ashok Kumar confirmed one death and multiple injuries. The matter is under investigation. The FIR is being registered under relevant sections, and the alleged accused will be nominated after the investigation, he said.
Former Punjab Director General of Police Mohammad Mustafa, who was booked for allegedly being involved in the death of his son, Aqil Akhtar, has denied all allegations against him and his family and called all accusations baseless. An FIR was registered against Mustafa, his wife, Razia Sultana who is a former cabinet minister, their daughter, and daughter-in-law after Akhtar died under suspicious circumstances in Panchkula, Haryana. In a statement, Mustafa said that the registration of the FIR did not mean proof of guilt. He said that his son had been addicted to drugs for the past 18 years and developed severe mental illnesses. ALSO RE AD | Former DGPs son Aqil Akhtar alleged father had illicit relation with wife, then backtracked before death Speaking to the India Express, he said, He died after injecting buprenorphine in overdose as per the initial police probe. For 18 years, since 2007, we were getting him treated for addiction, including at PGIMER Chandigarh, but he would relapse. He had even set our house on fire once. He was into drugs since he was studying in Class 10 at Welham Boys School in Dehradun, and was expelled from multiple schools in Chandigarh. Since 2007, we had been getting him treated for addiction, but he would relapse. Due to psychosis, he had started imagining things. He also said that Aqil had tried to commit arson once. He harassed his wife and mother for money for drugs and had even set our house on fire once. We had filed police complaints against him multiple times at Panchkula, but would retract considering he was our blood, he said. The family, including their daughter-in-law and grandchildren, struggled with Aqils drug addiction for years, according to Mustafa. We tried to keep things confined in the four walls of the house, but for how long? Due to his actions, we got a house on rent for his family where his wife lives with their two children. My grandson (Aqils son) went into depression seeing how his mother was tortured by my son. Those raising a finger at my daughter-in-law have no idea what she has been through, he said. He also added that his son's de-addiction treatment is on the record. My son had also attacked my security team and gunmen, and they had left the work. Once, he had also attacked cops in Chandigarh. My son was addicted to psychotropic drugs, and later he had also shifted to soft drugs. Some time ago, some peddlers gave him an ICE drug, and he relapsed again. He would not even remember the date or time of when he would record a particular video, and would later retract his words after some hours. He would also torture his mother, asking for money for drugs, and had set the house on fire,he added. Sultana and Nishat, Aqils sister, put out statements on their Facebook account. In the posts, they said that they will fight against dirty politicking even when they are mourning Aqil. A case has been registered against our family on the complaint of a person who has a dirty mindset and low politicking. According to ex-DGP Mustafa and as per rules, if police receive any complaint, then it becomes the duty of police to register an FIR, but that does not mean any offence has been proven. Now, a probe will actually start, and the truth will be out in front of people. It is true that we have been devastated by the death of our young son, but that doesnt mean we wont fight this dirty politicking, they said in the statement. Aqil was found unconscious at his home in Sector 4, Panchkua, early this month. He was declared dead at the hospital. Police had found no signs of foul play, and his body was handed over to the family for last rites. The complaint was made by Shamshudin Chaudhary of Malerkotla, Punjab, and the FIR was registered at the Mansa Devi Complex police station in Panchkula. Shamshudin cited a video where Aktaar made several allegations against multiple members of his family in his complaint. Mustafa, who retired as the Punjab DGP in 2021, said that he respected the polices decisions to register the FIR. If the police receive a written complaint in any matter, it becomes their duty to register an FIR on that complaint. The Panchkula Police have carried out this duty, and I welcome it. He also said that the allegations came from dirty politics and cheap thinking aimed at damaging his familys reputation. Those who got the FIR registered based on baseless allegations should also be prepared to face the law, he said.
bjp-leader-arrested-after-forcing-man-to-kneel-apologise-after-parking-dispute
A BJP leader from Meerut, UP, has been arrested after he allegedly threatened and verbally abused a man during a parking dispute at a hotel. Police said that the accused, Vikul Chaprana, 28, is the district Vice-president of the BJP's Kisan Morcha. In the video that went viral, a man, Satyam Rastogi, can be seen bowing in a gesture asking for forgiveness while Vikul is hurling verbal abuses. Behind the bowing, there is a group of police officers. Vikul's associates are also seen breaking car windows and threatening the man and someone with him. The incident is said to have occurred due to a parking dispute, the Indian Express reported. The video is said to have been recorded on October 19 at the Tejgarhi Medical Police Station in Meerut and was shared by Akhilesh Yadav on X. Superintendent of Police, Ayush Vikram Singh, said that the BJP leader was arrested on Tuesday after police took cognizance of the video. The SP said, A video has gone viral in which two groups can be seen arguing with each other. One group is also seen insulting the other. This incident is said to have happened in the Medical Nagar Police Station area. The main accused has been arrested and an FIR registered on the basis of a complaint under relevant sections, and further legal action is being taken, The complaint was made by the victim's younger brother, Aditya Rastogi, who is a Software developer in Noida. In the complaint, he said, On Sunday around 10 pm, my brother Satyam Rastogi and his friend went to eat at Punjabi Tadka restaurant near Tejghari Square in Meerut There, an altercation took place with Vikul Chaprana He, along with his friends, assaulted my brother and his friend, and behaved indecently while threatening them. BJP district president Shivkumar Rana told PTI, The video has come to our attention. The party does not condone such behaviour. He also said that state and regional leadership have been informed about the matter.
Punjab Police busts cross-border weapons smuggling network, four held
Punjab Police Busts Cross-Border Weapons Smuggling Network, 4 Held
Chandigarh, Oct 22: Punjab Police have busted a cross-border smuggling network and arrested four operatives and recovered four sophisticated pistols with live ammunition from them. Preliminary investigation reveals that the arrested accused were working on the directions of a Pakistan-based smuggler who had been orchestrating cross-border weapons movement into Punjab, Director General of Police, Gaurav Yadav said on Wednesday. In a major breakthrough, State Special Operation Cell (#SSOC), Amritsar busts a cross-border smuggling network and apprehends four operatives: Jugraj Singh [] The post Punjab Police Busts Cross-Border Weapons Smuggling Network, 4 Held appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Belgian court clears extradition of Mehul Choksi to India in PNB fraud case
In a major development, the Antwerp Court of Appeal ruled that the offences against fugitive diamond trader Mehul Choksi are extraditable under both Indian and Belgian law, paving the way for his return to face trial in the Rs 13,500 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case
Farm fires in Punjab drop sharply to 415 this year from 1,510 in 2024: Data
The sharp drop comes amid delayed paddy harvest as rains lashed the state until the first week of October. Damage caused by the floods in Punjab also delayed crop harvest at some places
Manjinder Singh Sirsa calls Kejriwal 'Anpadh,' accuses AAP of forcing Punjab farmers to burn stubble
Punjab Singer Critically Injured in Canada Shooting
SRINAGAR: Punjabi singer Teji Kahlon has been injured in a high-profile shooting in Canada, with a group allegedly connected to gangster Rohit Godara claiming responsibility for the attack, according to NDTV report. According to statements shared on social media, individuals identifying themselves as Godaras associates said Kahlon was targeted for allegedly supplying money and weapons []
In another shocking event of Canadian crimes, Punjabi singer Teji Kahlon was shot in the stomach, and the Godara gang claimed responsibility
'My grandson saw his mother being tortured': Big twist in Punjab ex-DGP Mustafa's son death case
Former Punjab DGP Muhammad Mustafa's family faces turmoil after his son Aqil's death. While initial reports suggested a drug overdose, social media videos alleging foul play have led to an FIR and an SIT probe. Mustafa maintains his son's statements were drug-influenced, citing his grandson's depression due to alleged family tensions.
Punjab Saw Dip In Farm Fires Incident From September 15-October 21: Data
Punjab recorded 415 farm fire incidents between September 15 and October 21 this year, down from 1,510 incidents during the same period last year, data showed.
'Next Time We Will Finish Him': Punjabi Singer Shot In Canada By Rohit Godara Gang
The members of Rohit Godara gang accused Teji Kahlon of being an informant against their members.
AI to revive Sidhu Moosewala for holographic concert tour
Punjabi singer-actor Ammy Virk has revealed that a Sidhu Moosewala hologram world tour was conceptualized soon after the late singer's death.
Punjabi singer Teji Kahlon shot in Canada; Rohit Godara Gang claims responsibility
CHANDIGARH: Punjabi singer Teji Kahlon was shot in Canada, and members of gangster Rohit Godaras crew have taken responsibility for the attack. In a post on Facebook, men identified as Mahender Saran Dilana, Rahul Rinau and Vicky Phalwan, reportedly associated with gangster Rohit Godara claimed credit for the attack on Kahlon in Canada. They alleged Kahlon was targeted for supplying arms and money to rival gangs and for acting as their informant. We carried out the shooting in Canada on Teji Kahlon. He was shot in the stomach. If he understands, fine. If not, next time we will finish him. The post also warned others, including businessmen, builders and financial intermediaries against assisting rival gangs, threatening they would meet similar fates. Let me make it clear, if anyone, even by mistake, supports our enemies or helps them in any way, we will not spare their families. We will destroy them. This is a warning to all brothers, businessmen, builders, hawala operators, and whoever else. If anyone helps, they will be our enemy. This is just the beginning. Watch what happens next, the post read. The message concluded by saying that anyone who assists their enemies will automatically be considered an enemy of the Rohit Godara gang. Canadian authorities are investigating the attack. Recently, Hari Boxer, a close aide of Lawrence Bishnoi, was shot at in the United States, and gangster Rohit Godara had claimed responsibility for that attack. In a purported Facebook post, Godara reportedly said he and Goldy Brar orchestrated the shooting in California, during which one of Boxers associates died on the spot and another was shot and hospitalized. Rohit Godara, also known as Rawatram Swami, is a notorious gangster from Lunkaransar in Bikaner, Rajasthan.
Ex-Punjab DGP denies role in son's death, says SIT probe to reveal truth
Former Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Mohammad Mustafa has dismissed as completely false all allegations levelled against him and his family , who were booked under murder charges in connection with the death of his son Aqil Akhter. The former Punjab top cop said he welcomed the police case registered against him and his wife, former Punjab minister Razia Sultana, as the investigation would eveal the truth. Mustafa, a retired 1985-batch IPS officer, and Sultana along with Akther's wife and sister have all been booked in connection with the death of the 35-year-old, at his residence in Haryana's Panchkula on October 16. The family initially claimed that he died due to a drug overdose. They later buried his body in their ancestral village Harda Kheri in UP's Saharanpur. Responding to a purported video of his son in which Akhter made some serious allegations against Mustafa and other family members, the former DGP said his son was suffering from a psychotic disorder for nearly 18 years and also struggled with substance abuse. He often became violent due to his illness, Mustafa told reporters on Tuesday, adding that his family endured this mental suffering for years. His condition had worsened to the point where he didn't understand what he was saying or doing, he added. Akhter once broke his mother's hip in 2008, but the family covered it up by saying she had fallen. On another occasion, Akhter tried to attack his wife, Mustafa claimed. We are public figures, so we tried to hide these matters, but now the truth must come out, he said. On Akhter's video, he further said that his son posted it on social media on August 27 and deleted it two hours later. But some people downloaded it and were now misusing it to malign the family. Mustafa said he fully supported the formation of a special investigation team (SIT) to investigate the case and would cooperate fully so that the truth is brought to light. Mustafa also rejected the allegations levelled by Shamshuddin, a resident of Punjab's Malerkotla on whose complaint the FIR in the case has been registered, terming them completely false. He alleged that certain individuals were trying to damage his political reputation. The former DGP said his son's post-mortem was conducted at his request, but the report has not yet been released. In the purported video, Akhter, while referring to the matters pertaining to the family, said that he had been going through a lot of stress. I feel they will frame me in a false case... Their plan is to have me falsely imprisoned or even killed, but they are unable to have their way, he said in the video. Akhter also alleged that his family members often told him that he was delusional and was hallucinating. They are trying to establish a false narrative, he alleged.
Punjabi singer Harrdy Sandhu, wife Zenith Sidhu welcome their second child
As soon as Harrdy announced the arrival of the baby, fans chimed in the comment section and extended their best wishes to him and his family
A Belgian court has ruled fugitive diamond trader Mehul Choksi's alleged crimes are extraditable. This decision allows his return to India to face trial for the Punjab National Bank fraud. The court found his actions punishable under both Indian and Belgian laws. Choksi's arguments about political motivation and rights violations were rejected.
Post-Diwali haze engulfs Delhi and neighbouring states as air quality dips sharply
Delhi continues to struggle with hazardous air pollution, with air quality remaining in the 'very poor' category across several areas on Wednesday morning, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). At 7:00 am, the AQI in Delhis RK Puram was recorded at 380, while Anand Vihar and Ashok Vihar both stood at 355. Other severely affected locations included Bawana (376), Dwarka Sector 8 (353), ITO (362), and Nehru Nagar, which reported one of the highest levels at 394. In Chandni Chowk, the AQI remained 'very poor' at 332, while around Akshardham, it reached 360, also falling in the 'very poor' range. 'Air is grey, lungs are black, BJP's accountability invisible': Congress on Delhi's worsening air quality Neighbouring Haryana is facing similar challenges. At 9:00 am, Dharuhera in Rewari district recorded an AQI of 382. Other areas in the 'very poor' category included Narnaul (367), Jind (367), Charkhi Dadri (362), Rohtak (358), Yamunanagar (347), Fatehabad (320), and Ballabhgarh (318). Several cities in Haryana fell into the 'poor' category, including Bahadurgarh (272), Gurugram (290), Karnal (243), Bhiwani (298), Faridabad (218), Kaithal (237), Kurukshetra (226), and Sonipat (285). In Punjab, air quality was relatively better but still concerning. Amritsar recorded a 'poor' AQI of 253, followed by Jalandhar (261), Ludhiana (234), and Patiala (207). Chandigarh, the joint capital of Punjab and Haryana, recorded an AQI of 169, placing it in the moderate range but still below healthy air quality standards. According to the CPCB classification, AQI values are categorized as follows: 050 (good), 51100 (satisfactory), 101200 (moderate), 201300 (poor), 301400 (very poor), 401450 (severe), and above 450 (severe plus). (With inputs from ANI, PTI) Supreme contempt of the court
Delhi and neighbouring states choke under 'very poor' air quality, pollution levels remain alarming
Delhi continues to struggle with hazardous air pollution, with air quality remaining in the 'very poor' category across several areas on Wednesday morning, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). At 7:00 am, the AQI in Delhis RK Puram was recorded at 380, while Anand Vihar and Ashok Vihar both stood at 355. Other severely affected locations included Bawana (376), Dwarka Sector 8 (353), ITO (362), and Nehru Nagar, which reported one of the highest levels at 394. In Chandni Chowk, the AQI remained 'very poor' at 332, while around Akshardham, it reached 360, also falling in the 'very poor' range. 'Air is grey, lungs are black, BJP's accountability invisible': Congress on Delhi's worsening air quality Neighbouring Haryana is facing similar challenges. At 9:00 am, Dharuhera in Rewari district recorded an AQI of 382. Other areas in the 'very poor' category included Narnaul (367), Jind (367), Charkhi Dadri (362), Rohtak (358), Yamunanagar (347), Fatehabad (320), and Ballabhgarh (318). Several cities in Haryana fell into the 'poor' category, including Bahadurgarh (272), Gurugram (290), Karnal (243), Bhiwani (298), Faridabad (218), Kaithal (237), Kurukshetra (226), and Sonipat (285). In Punjab, air quality was relatively better but still concerning. Amritsar recorded a 'poor' AQI of 253, followed by Jalandhar (261), Ludhiana (234), and Patiala (207). Chandigarh, the joint capital of Punjab and Haryana, recorded an AQI of 169, placing it in the moderate range but still below healthy air quality standards. According to the CPCB classification, AQI values are categorized as follows: 050 (good), 51100 (satisfactory), 101200 (moderate), 201300 (poor), 301400 (very poor), 401450 (severe), and above 450 (severe plus). (With inputs from ANI, PTI) Supreme contempt of the court
Popular Punjabi singer Teji Kahlon shot at in Canada: Bullets pumped into stomach
Punjabi singer Teji Kahlon was shot in Canada by associates of gangster Rohit Godara, who claimed Kahlon supplied weapons and money to rival gangs and acted as an informant. This incident highlights an ongoing transnational gang feud, following the recent murder of businessman Ramesh Rulania in Rajasthan, also suspected to be linked to Godara's gang.
Air quality 'very poor' in parts of Haryana, 'poor' in Punjab
Air quality in parts of Haryana was recorded in the 'very poor' category on Wednesday, with Dharuhera's AQI reaching 382. Neighbouring Punjab experienced 'poor' air quality, with Amritsar at 253. Chandigarh, the shared capital, registered a 'moderate' AQI of 169.
Who Is Mohammad Mustafa, Ex-Punjab DGP Accused Of Killing Son Over Affair With Daughter-In-Law?
During his career, former DGP Mohammad Mustafa held key posts in Punjab Police and received five bravery awards for his role in combating terrorism and restoring peace in the state
Punjabi Singer Shot By Rohit Godara Gang In Canada, Then A Warning To Rivals
In a fresh bout of gang violence in Canada, miscreants associated with gangster Rohit Godara have taken credit for the attack on Punjabi singer Teji Kahlon.
'Father-wife affair, threat to life': What Punjab ex-DGP Md Mustafa's son alleged in video
A murder case is registered against former Punjab DGP Md Mustafa, his wife, and daughter-in-law following their son Aqil's death. Allegations of foul play emerged after Aqil's pre-death videos surfaced, claiming his family conspired against him. While the family initially suspected drug overdose, police are investigating thoroughly.
From chopping vegetables in a Brisbane restaurant to smashing Haris Rauf for six in the BBL and bagging a fifer on his first-class debut, Nikhil Chaudharys journey is one of pure spirit. The former Punjab all-rounder, once juggling odd jobs to survive, now dreams of donning Australias yellow one tick box at a time.
Delhi's air quality remains poor. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa labelled Arvind Kejriwal illiterate. This follows a political spat over Punjab's stubble burning. Sirsa accused AAP of forcing farmers to burn crops. The Commission for Air Quality Management has implemented Stage 2 of GRAP. Air Quality Index levels are in the 'very poor' category across Delhi.
Delhi Air Turns Toxic After Diwali As Firecrackers Offset Gains From Fall In Farm Fires
Local sources dominated the pollution load, even as stubble burning incidents in Punjab fell sharply from 1,510 last year to 415 this year---a remarkable reduction of 72.5%
Truth Will Come Out: Ex-Punjab DGP Denies Role In Sons Death, Calls FIR Baseless
Ex-Punjab DGP Mustafa said the registration of an FIR did not amount to proof of guilt.
On Tuesday, Harrdy Sandhu dropped a post welcoming his second child with wife Zeith Sandhu, and it went viral in no time.
Ex Punjab DGP Mohammad Mustafa's SHOCKING reaction on dead son video: 'My rivals...'
Ex-DGP Mohammad Mustafa has given his reaction to his dead son Aqil Akhtar's video. This comes after Mustafa's son Aqil was found unconscious and was declared dead. Later, Mustafa and wife Razia was arrested on the basis of their son's past videos, where he makes big allegations on his family.
Wheat yield at risk as Punjab struggles with silt, delayed paddy harvest
22,000 Afghans deported from Pakistans Punjab in October
LAHORE, Oct 21: Pakistans Punjab government this month deported around 22,000 Afghan nationals residing in the province illegally besides closing down the last Afghan refugee camp, a Punjab police spokesperson said on Tuesday. The third-phase of the operation to repatriate illegally residing foreign (Afghan) nationals from Punjab has been launched. The government has deported this []
Amid blame game over Delhi pollution, AAP says BJP defaming Punjab farmers
Pak terrorist Rinda threats to kill liquor contractors in Punjab; cop calls it extortion ploy
Mark of distinction: 76 earn senior advocate tag at Punjab and Haryana HC
