New Delhi/Chandigarh, Oct 16: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said the Centre will seek Punjab government's response over two incidents in the state: a father consuming poison under pressure in Dirba and the broad daylight killing of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa. In a post on microblogging site X, Shah said Punjab is today grappling with a rising threat of drugs, gangsterism and organised crime. He asked Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann who will ultimately bear the responsibility for the safety of Punjab's people. In Dirba, a father succumbing to pressure and consuming poison, and in Mansa, the broad-daylight murder of Parvinder Singh Jhota -- who had raised his voice against drugs -- have raised serious questions about the law and order situation in Punjab, Shah's post read. Jhota's father has levelled grave allegations against the ruling Aam Aadmi Party government and their MLA, it said, adding that the Home Ministry will seek responses from the Punjab government on both the incidents. Jhota, an anti-drug activist, was shot dead by a medical store owner at a busy market in Mansa on Tuesday. Ashwani Kumar, the store owner who fired at Jhota when he was being questioned for selling addictive drugs to an elderly man, was subsequently arrested. The first incident Shah referred to was the death by suicide of Gulzar Singh, who hailed from Dirba in Sangrur, on September 7. Gulzar's family had alleged that he consumed poison after being harassed and subjected to casteist slurs for questioning Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema about the supply of drugs in his locality. Political parties, including the BJP, have been increasingly highlighting the drug issue in poll-bound Punjab, where assembly elections are due early next year. In his X post, Shah said, In Punjab, the drug trade is flourishing, the threat of organised crime is growing, and questions are being raised about the safety of those who speak out against drugs. Addressing Chief Minister Mann, Shah said the people of Punjab want results, not publicity. Bhagwant Mann ji, the people of Punjab do not want promises, they want answers; not announcements, but results; decisive strikes against drug networks; and an impartial investigation into any political patronage received by criminals. Today, I reiterate my pledge before the people of Punjab that when our government comes to power in Punjab, we will work with full force to create a drug-free, gangster-free, and secure Punjab. Our goal is clear: strikes against the drug trade, protection of our youth's future, strict action against criminals, and the rule of law in such a way that no citizen is forced to live under the shadow of fear, the home minister said. Reacting sharply to Shah's post, Mann pointed to a drug seizure at a Gujarat port and advised the home minister to take responsibility for his own duties. In an X post in Punjabi, Mann said, Amit Shah ji, you should have consulted with your advisors before speaking about me. The BSF (Border Security Force) has jurisdiction over a 50-kilometre range. 3,000 kilograms of 'chitta' (synthetic drugs) are being seized at the Kandla port in Gujarat. Before blaming Bhagwant Mann, take responsibility for your own duties. Do not simply copy-paste tweets drafted for your sycophants. Last month, while addressing a rally in Jalandhar to mark the culmination of BJP's Nasha Mukt Punjab Yatra, Shah had accused the AAP government of allowing chitta trade to run openly and vowed that the BJP would make Punjab drug-free by December 2029 if voted to power. During his Jalandhar visit on September 30, Shah had also met some families affected by the drug menace. The home minister had then asserted that those indulging in the drug trade will be sent behind bars. Remove the incompetent AAP government once and within two years, we will eradicate the drug menace, he had said.
Drug menace in Punjab at 'alarming level', state needs govt that can keep people safe: Nitin Nabin
BJP president Nitin Nabin targeted the AAP government in Punjab and said the drug crisis has reached an alarming level. He emphasised the need for decisive action against miscreants and said the people of Punjab deserve accountability. Nabin raised recent drug-related murders, alleging that there was a collapse of law and order in the state. He also questioned the safety of anti-drug activists in Punjab.
Punjab Minister Sanjeev Aroras Bail Plea Denied in Money Laundering Case
The Punjab and Haryana High Court has rejected Sanjeev Aroras bail plea in a money laundering case linked to alleged GST fraud. Punjab Minister Sanjeev Aroras Bail Plea Denied in Money Laundering Case
Rising Violence Against Anti-Drug Activists Sparks Outrage in Punjab
Punjab faces growing violence against anti-drug activists, raising serious questions about law and order in the state. Rising Violence Against Anti-Drug Activists Sparks Outrage in Punjab
Martyr: Akal Takht Leader On Murdered Punjab Anti-Drug Activist
Parvinder Singh Jhota, the anti-drug activist who was shot dead by a shop owner after he caught him selling drugs in Punjab's Mansa earlier this week.
Amit Shah Seeks Punjab Govt Response Over Drug-Related Incidents
The Union Home Minister cited the death of Gulzar Singh in Dirba and the killing of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa, raising concerns over Punjabs law and order.
Arvind Kejriwal accuses BJP of colluding with drug traffickers to destabilise Punjab
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Rs 20 Crore Medicines Seized, 520 Chemist Licences Suspended: Punjab's Anti-Drug Crackdown
The Punjab government has also raised concerns with the Union health minister over the absence of rules regulating the online sale of medicines through e-pharmacies.
MHA to seek responses from Punjab govt. on recent narcotics-related deaths
Amit Shah said in a social media post, In Punjab, the drug trade is growing day by day, the threat of organised crime is increasing, and questions are being raised about the protection of those who speak out against drugs.
MHA to seek responses from Punjab govt. on recent narcotics-related deaths
Amit Shah said in a social media post, In Punjab, the drug trade is growing day by day, the threat of organised crime is increasing, and questions are being raised about the protection of those who speak out against drugs.
Amit Shah Questions Punjab Government on Rising Crime and Drug Issues
Amit Shah criticizes the Punjab government for failing to address rising crime and drug issues, demanding results over announcements. Amit Shah Questions Punjab Government on Rising Crime and Drug Issues
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday targeted Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann-led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab over the drug menace in the state and said the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) will seek a report on the murder of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota, who was shot dead in the Mansa district earlier this week.
MHA to seek Punjab report on anti-drug activist Jhota
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Investors will track earnings from real estate, banking, consumer, telecom and technology companies, with DLF, PNB, Bajaj Housing Finance, Federal Bank, LTM, Oberoi Realty and Tejas Networks among the key names reporting September-quarter results.
Punjab shuts down to protest anti-drug activist's murder
Q2 Results Today, 16th October 2026 Live Updates: Stay tuned to get real-time market, business and financial news updates
DJMC IUST organises national-level Film Festival 2026
Awantipora, Oct 15: The Department of Journalism and Mass Communication (DJMC), Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), organised the national-level Film Festival 2026 on Thursday. The festival brought together aspiring filmmakers and students from diverse educational institutions to celebrate cinema and creative storytelling. As many as 27 short films and documentaries were screened on the occasion, of which 22 were shortlisted for the competition among school, college and university students participating from various states of India. A film from IUST titled Deception by Afnan Manzoor bagged the best film award, Compulsion from Amar Singh College received second film award, Bindiya from Central University of Haryana received third best film award, while DJMC IUSTs Lemonade received the special Jury-mention award. Prof. Shahid Rasool, Dean Academic Affairs, Central University of Kashmir, Bollywood actor-director Mir Sarwar and filmmaker and Founder, Renzu Films, Danish Renzu were the jury members for the competition. In his presidential address, Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice Chancellor, IUST, underlined the importance of film making and storytelling through cinema to promote skilful creativity among students and institutions. He stressed that inherent creativity is often stifled by the conventional education system. However, universities are now building ecosystems for innovation and entrepreneurship while keeping in view the ethical use of technology and media, said Prof. Romshoo, who was the chief guest on the occasion. Dean Academic Affairs, IUST, Prof. Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, and Dean School of Humanities and Social Sciences, IUST, Dr. Afroz Ahmad Bisati joined as the guests of honour. Earlier, welcoming the guests and participants, Dr. Rabia Noor, Head, DJMC, stressed that media education must extend beyond the classrooms and textbooks, adding that the Film Festival 2026 is one such initiative, designed to provide a platform to emerging filmmakers to showcase their talent, and learn from experienced practitioners of the art and craft of filmmaking. Meanwhile, a special edition of Times Echo, IUST news magazine, titled IUST@2047: Special Edition on Institutional Development Plans was unveiled on the occasion. The edition brings together the IDPs of various departments, centres and offices of IUST, reflecting their roadmap for growth towards a developed India by 2047. The participating institutions included DJMC IUST, Government College for Women M.A. Road, GDC Anantnag, Amar Singh College, Green Valley Educational Institute, Heritage School Jammu, SRM Welkin School Sopore, Media Education Research Centre, University of Kashmir, Central University of Haryana, Central University of Punjab, and Government Medical College and Hospital, Chandigarh and Government College for Women, Jammu, among others. Besides, five other films produced by DJMC IUST were screened on the occasion. The screening was followed by a post-film panel discussion of jury members, moderated by Dr. Haifaa Mohammad Ahsan, Assistant Professor, DJMC, IUST. Formal vote of thanks addresses were presented by Dr. Ruheela Hassan, Dean Outreach and Dr. Sayar Ahmad Mir, Assistant Professor, DJMC, IUST. Dean of Students, Dr. Monisa Qadiri, Dean Research Dr. Aabid Shalla, Finance Officer, Sameer Wazir, CEO CIED-IUST, Prof. Parvaiz Mir, Coordinator Community Radio Station, Dr. Mujeeb Liyakat, among other University officials, were also present on the occasion.
Stocks to watch: Jio Fin, Yes Bank, Wipro, L&T Fin, Angel One, Urban Co
Urban Company, Federal Bank, Punjab National Bank, LTM, Bajaj Housing Finance, Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals, DLF, Jindal Saw, Oberoi Realty, Shoppers Stop, will report Q2FY27 results today.
Horticulture Expert Dr Harvinder Singh Dhaliwal Appointed Vice-Chancellor of PAU
Dr Harvinder Singh Dhaliwal, a distinguished horticulture scientist and former senior administrator at the The post Horticulture Expert Dr Harvinder Singh Dhaliwal Appointed Vice-Chancellor of PAU appeared first on Khalsa Vox .
How UK and Canada Trade Missions are Strengthening Ties with India
The simultaneous high-level trade missions from the United Kingdom and Canada to India this The post How UK and Canada Trade Missions are Strengthening Ties with India appeared first on Khalsa Vox .
Punjab observes bandh over anti-drug activist's murder
A state-wide bandh was observed across Punjab on Thursday following the murder of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa. Markets and educational institutions remained shut, and roads were blocked by protesters, disrupting traffic. Jhota was shot on Tuesday for questioning the illegal sale of addictive drugs. His family, supported by various political parties and farmer unions, has refused to perform his last rites until justice is delivered, demanding resignations of top officials and a CBI probe. The incident has intensified the political debate on drug menace and law and order in Punjab.
Punjab Bandh: Towns paralysed, markets shut, highways blocked
Wife Of Medical Shop Owner Who Shot Punjab Anti-Drug Activist Arrested
The police sent Ashwani Kumar, the alleged shooter, and his associate, Vipin Kumar, to seven days' police remand.
Anti-Indian Hate In US: Sikh Driver Attacked, Hindu Temples Targeted
A foiled shooting plot targeting a Hindu temple in Illinois has renewed concerns over the safety of the Indian diaspora in the United States. From an attack on a Punjabi Sikh truck driver in Wyoming to gunfire at a Utah temple and anti-Hindu graffiti at temples in New York and California, a series of reported incidents has raised questions about targeted hostility towards South Asian communities.
EC orders special summary revision of electoral rolls after SIR
New Delhi: The Election Commission on Thursday, October 15, ordered an annual special summary revision (SSR) of electoral rolls in 17 states and Union Territories, directing that political parties be supplied with a readable PDF format in a first-ever move. The states where SSR will be held include Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Goa, Punjab and Manipur, 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 .
From Study Visas to Crime: Punjabi Young People in Canada
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: From Study Visas to Crime: Punjabi Young People in Canada There are concerns over Punjabi young people in Canada as police named 17 suspects linked to extortion and shootings. The post From Study Visas to Crime: Punjabi Young People in Canada appeared first on DESIblitz .
Medicine store vandalised after customers death
Campuses empty, exams postponed
Bandh cripples normal life, toll plazas thrown open across city
UP, MP, Manipur Dominate On Day 6 Of Hockey Nationals
Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Manipur secured victories in their respective pool games, while Punjab and Bengal played to a draw on the sixth day of the Hockey India Senior Men National Championship in Jhansi. Uttar Pradesh defeated Chandigarh 5-0, Madhya Pradesh beat Puducherry 4-2, and Manipur overcame Delhi 5-2.
Major Restructuring in Indian Nationalist Party: Navjot Kaur Sidhu Relieved of Responsibilities
The Indian Nationalist Party has relieved Navjot Kaur Sidhu of her duties for health reasons, appointing Sukhminderpal Singh Grewal as the new Punjab in-charge. Major Restructuring in Indian Nationalist Party: Navjot Kaur Sidhu Relieved of Responsibilities
Punjab Chief Minister Assures No Power Shortage After Meeting with Union Minister
Punjabs Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann guarantees uninterrupted power supply following talks with Union Energy Minister Manohar Lal. Punjab Chief Minister Assures No Power Shortage After Meeting with Union Minister
EC to conduct SSR of electoral rolls in 17 states and Union territories
The Election Commission will conduct Special Summary Revision of electoral rolls in 17 states and UTs, including poll-bound Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Manipur and Goa.
Nirav Modi Associate Sandeep Mistry Denied Bail
A special CBI court in Mumbai denied bail to Sandeep Mistry, an associate of fugitive businessman Nirav Modi, in the multi-million-dollar Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam. The court cited Mistry's history of destroying evidence and his absconding for seven years as reasons for the denial, expressing concerns about securing his presence during the trial if released.
Pilot's Punjab Outreach: Congress Raises Law And Order Concerns
Congress leader Sachin Pilot is set to embark on a five-day visit to Punjab starting October 16, where he will meet families of gang violence victims across 11 districts. This visit aims to amplify their voices and is seen as a strategic move by the Congress to make law and order a central issue against the AAP government in the upcoming elections. Punjab Congress chief Pargat Singh also criticised the AAP government over deteriorating security and extortion threats faced by traders.
Badminton: Jagsher Singh assured of medal after reaching boys' singles semis in World Juniors
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 15 (IANS) Indias Jagsher Singh Khangurra assured himself of a medal in the BWF World Junior Badminton Championships after he came from a game down to beat Yuan-Syue Jhuang of Chinese Taipei to reach the boys' singles semifinal in Cairo, Egypt, on Thursday. The 17-year-old Jagsher Singh, who hails from Nabha town in Punjab, defeated Jhuang 6-15, 17-15, 15-12 in 48 minutes to become the ninth boys singles player from India to finish on the podium. India have so far won one gold, five silver and six bronze, and the 14th seeded Jagsher Singh will hope to go the distance as he faces 31st seed Radithya Bayu Wardhana of Indonesia in the semifinals on Saturday. Shaina Manimuthu also had a chance of assuring India a medal in the girls singles category, but the Asian U17 silver medallist went down 15-5, 15-8 against Chinas Yi Qing Yin in the quarterfinals. Punjab youngster Jagsher Singh Khangurra is a former under-17 national champion and Asian medallist in his age-group. He came into prominence with a medal in the under-15 nationals two years back and has since gone from strength to strength, turning his casual interest in the game into a passion and a possible career option. After getting initial training at an academy in Bahadurgarh and then at the Uday Pawar Academy in Mumbai, Jagsher Singh has been associated with the Centre of Excellence in Bangalore under former national coach Vimal Kumar for the last two years. Ranked 8th in the Under-19 boys' singles section as of September 22, 2026, Jagsher Singh achieved his best-ever ranking of No.1 in the under-17 boys' singles section at the national level in the week starting January 11, 2026. Jagsher, who took to badminton at the age of seven and left his home at 11 to join the academy in Bahadurgarh, has so far won six medals in international tournaments and has established himself as one of the best young shuttlers in the country. Jagsher, whose parents are both government school teachers, is the first person form his family to take to badminton.
Who was Parvinder Singh Jhota? Murder of anti-drug activist sparks Punjab bandh
Punjab recorded 174 stubble-burning incidents between September 15 and October 13, 2026, up from 134 during the same period last year. Satellite monitoring detected 51 farm fire events on October 13 alone, with Amritsar and Tarn Taran accounting for most of the days cases. The rise comes as paddy harvesting accelerates, raising concerns over seasonal air pollution and Delhis winter air quality.
Sachin Pilot asserted confidence in the Congress forming the next Punjab government, emphasizing the party's united front led by Pargat Singh. He highlighted the lack of a chief ministerial face while affirming that the party would decide leadership after elections, noting strong competition from AAP and the weakened position of SAD and BJP.
Rahul accuses Punjab govt of failing to protect anti-drug campaigners
Sachin Pilot to go on 5-day Punjab yatra, visit families of gang violence victims
Anything possible in politics: Pilot on rumours over Amarinder's return to Congress
Sachin Pilot remarked on the potential for Captain Amarinder Singh's return to Congress, emphasizing that politics is unpredictable. While Singh expressed dissatisfaction with the BJP, he has not discussed his future political plans with Pilot. Singh previously led the Congress in Punjab and left over internal conflicts within the party. He later formed the Punjab Lok Congress which did not succeed in recent elections.
Punjab bandh: Most shops shut in Amritsar, neighbouring districts
High Court Rebukes Punjab Police Over Humiliating Instagram Reels of Arrested Accused
Sachin Pilot to meet families of gang violence victims in Punjab
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From Jaideep Ahlawat to Adarsh Gourav: 5 actors showcasing their range across films and streaming
Across films and streaming, several actors have built filmographies by moving between different genres, characters and storytelling formats. From crime dramas and thrillers to comedy, mythology and relationship-driven stories, these five performers have taken on roles that offer a varied look at their acting abilities. Jaideep Ahlawat Jaideep Ahlawat has moved across a range of characters during his career. In Raazi, he played intelligence officer Khalid Mir, while Paatal Lok saw him take on the role of police inspector Hathiram Chaudhary, a performance that brought him wider recognition. The two characters operate in very different worlds, allowing Ahlawat to explore contrasting approaches to authority, conflict and vulnerability. His subsequent work has continued to place him in varied dramatic settings across films and streaming projects. Suhail Nayyar Suhail Nayyar has worked across genres ranging from comedy and drama to horror and mythology. His filmography includes Udta Punjab, Hotel Mumbai, Sharmaji Namkeen and Murder Mubarak, followed by projects such as Jee Karda and the espionage thriller Saare Jahan Se Accha. His upcoming slate also includes Udta Teer, Single Papa Season 2 and Vir Das found-footage psychological horror film Baara Number. He is also part of Nitesh Tiwaris Ramayana: Part Two, where he plays Sugriva. Manoj Bajpayee Manoj Bajpayees filmography includes characters that have ranged from gangsters and police officers to academics and ordinary men caught in difficult circumstances. His portrayal of Bhiku Mhatre in Satya remains among his best-known performances, while Aligarh saw him play Professor Ramchandra Siras in a restrained drama. With The Family Man, Bajpayee took on the role of intelligence officer Srikant Tiwari, balancing action and humour with the characters responsibilities at home. His performances in films such as Joram and Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai have further added to a body of work spanning very different characters and narratives. Adarsh Gourav Adarsh Gourav has moved between projects that differ in setting, tone and scale. He played Balram Halwai in The White Tiger, a role that earned him a BAFTA nomination for Leading Actor. In Kho Gaye Hum Kahan, Gourav portrayed Neil, a fitness trainer navigating personal relationships and professional ambitions in Mumbai. He later appeared in Reema Kagtis Superboys of Malegaon as Nasir, a young man pursuing his filmmaking ambitions with a group of friends. Vijay Varma Vijay Varma has similarly moved between characters across genres. In Darlings, he played Hamza, while Dahaad saw him portray serial killer Anand Swarnakar. His role in Jaane Jaan was different again, with Varma playing a police investigator involved in an increasingly complicated case. These performances have allowed Varma to explore characters with contrasting shades, from unsettling antagonists to more restrained and observant personalities. His varied choices across films and streaming have become a notable part of his screen work. Also Read:From Priyanka Chopra Jonas to Ayushmann Khurrana: 5 Indian actors driving global change beyond cinema
Deep Money on new party anthem
Mumbai Singer Deep Money, best known for his track, Dope Shope, has opened up about his new party anthem Billo. The post Deep Money on new party anthem Billo: It blends Punjabi energy with a contemporary sound appeared first on Bilkul Online .
Sattamum Needhiyum Season 2: Watch the Official trailer from punjabi Web series 'Sattamum Needhiyum Season 2' starring Saravanan, Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, Lavanya and Premkumar. Sattamum Needhiyum Season 2 is directed by Balaji Selvaraj. To know more about Sattamum Needhiyum Season 2, watch the video. Check out the latest punjabi trailer, new series trailer, trending punjabi series trailer, Saravanan, Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, Lavanya and Premkumar's videos at Etimes - Times of India Entertainment.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday (October 15) criticised the Bhagwant Mann-led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab over the killing of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhotta in Mansa, alleging that speaking out against...
Punjab bandh disrupts traffic in Amritsar after Parminder Singh Jhota murder
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Deep Money on new party anthem Billo: It blends Punjabi energy with a contemporary sound
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 15 (IANS) Singer Deep Money, best known for his track, Dope Shope, has opened up about his new party anthem Billo. He shared that the track brings together the distinctive energy of Punjabi music with a fresh, contemporary sound. Money said the song aims to retain the essence of Punjabi music while offering listeners a modern musical experience. Speaking about the song, Deep stated, For me, Billo is all about attitude, confidence, and celebrating life. I wanted to create something that instantly lifts your mood, a song that makes you want to turn up the volume, smile, and dance. Ive always loved creating music that people can connect with, and Billo brings together that unmistakable Punjabi energy with a fresh, contemporary sound. Sabby Airy has brought incredible energy to the music, and Akshay has captured the entire vibe beautifully on screen. Im really excited for everyone to experience it. He added, The first thing that came to me when I started composing Billo was its hook line something around Billo, with a Punjabi touch. That hook line came to me first, and Ive had many super-duper hit songs over the years. I have a great team that supports me immensely. Everyone who works with me in the studio does their job exceptionally well. Im especially thankful to my team and to Surya, who did a fantastic job with the video. A big shout-out to Akshay Agarwal, who directed the video brilliantly, and to our featured artist, Aprila, who set the dance floor on fire with her moves. The peppy number is sung, written, and composed by Deep Money. The music video, directed by Akshay Agarwal, features Aparna Reddy. Deep Money is widely known for songs such as Dope Shope, Bottle, Heeriye, Zeher, Come to Me, Milan, Disco Wich Gidda', and Jhanjhar.
Punjab witnessed a shutdown on Thursday following the murder of young man Parminder Singh Jhota in Mansa, with organisations staging protests and enforcing closures at several locations across the state after a video of the killing went viral on social media. In Amritsar, protesters blocked roads at multiple locations, disrupting traffic and leaving several children and three ambulances carrying patients stuck in traffic jams. Police intervened to clear the roads and ensure the safe passage of ambulances. DCP Jugraj Singh said that several children and patients, including those in three ambulances, were caught in the traffic congestion. Police personnel and the duty magistrate appealed to the protesters to clear the roads peacefully. According to the DCP, while most protesters heeded the administration's appeal and cleared the path, 5 to 7 individuals continued to create obstructions. Despite repeated warnings, when they refused to comply, the police detained them. The DCP said, We ma...
Punjab Government and Police Blamed for Parvinder Jhottas Murder, Says Akali Leader Majithia
Senior Akali leader Majithia holds Punjab government accountable for the murder of anti-drug activist Parvinder Jhotta, questioning police failures. Punjab Government and Police Blamed for Parvinder Jhottas Murder, Says Akali Leader Majithia
TIPS Music YouTube Subscribers Reach 164.5 Million; Catalogue Crosses 54.3 Billion Views
TIPS Music's YouTube subscriber base reached 164.5 million in Q2 FY27, while cumulative views crossed 54.3 billion, as its Punjabi album Ishqnama surpassed 100 million views.
Experience The New Punjabi Music Video 'Billo' by Deep Money
Get ready to be swept away by the latest punjabi track 'Billo' beautifully sung by Deep Money. This captivating track feature mesmerizing music given by Sabby Airy and beautiful lyrics are also penned by Deep Money. Don't miss the chance to witness Deep Money's performance in the captivating punjabi video track 'Billo'. Dive into a world of musical excellence by exploring more punjabi tracks in the music videos section of punjabi Etimes. Discover the incredible vocal talents of Deep Money. Indulge in the latest punjabi video tracks of 2026, groove to the soulful compositions by Sabby Airy, immerse in the punjabi music video tracks.
India works to bring home four Punjab nationals rescued in Ethiopia
India works to bring home four Punjab nationals rescued in Ethiopia
Birds in the Dark: Shashank Walia dedicates Busan award to Punjab's villagers
Shashank Walias Punjabi feature Birds in the Dark has won the Songwon Vision Audience Award - Asia at the 31st Busan International Film Festival. Produced by Reema Kaur, Hansal Mehta and Sahil Saigal, the film explores caste, gender, labour, justice and love
Protests Erupt in Punjab Following the Murder of Activist Parvinder Singh Jhota
Protests across Punjab demand justice for activist Parvinder Singh Jhota, who was killed for speaking against drug abuse. Protests Erupt in Punjab Following the Murder of Activist Parvinder Singh Jhota
Punjab Bandh Update: Are Schools Open Tomorrow, October 16?
Is your school open after the Punjab Bandh? Get the latest updates on school closures for October 16, 2026. Check district-wise status, exam schedules, and how to verify your child's school notice before classes resume.
Four Held In Delhi For Illegal Firecracker Transport
Delhi Police seized over 2,260 kg of illegal firecrackers from two vehicles in Alipur and arrested four individuals involved in transporting the consignment from Punjab for delivery in Delhi, where firecrackers are banned.
Anti-Drug Activist's Murder Leads To Punjab Bandh
A 'Punjab Bandh' was observed on Thursday, leading to widespread closures of shops and private schools and road blockades across several districts, following the murder of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa on Tuesday. Jhota was shot by a chemist owner for questioning the sale of addictive drugs. The incident has triggered significant political backlash against the Aam Aadmi Party government, with various organisations and opposition parties demanding accountability and a CBI probe.
OPINION | Punjab murder: Who is stalling CBI probe?
Punjab is on the boil after the cold-blooded murder of anti-drugs activist Parvinder Singh Jhota. He was shot by a Mansa medical store owner Ashwini, who later fled to Rajasthan and was nabbed from there. The...
Will form govt in Punjab 100%; no CM face, Cong fighting as team under 'unifying' Pargat: Pilot
Congress party leader Sachin Pilot is confident of winning the upcoming Punjab elections and forming the next government. He emphasized that all party leaders are working together as a unified team under Pargat Singh's leadership. Pilot stated that the main competition will be between Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party.
Activist Gunned Down, Punjab Shut Down: AAP
Punjab came to a partial standstill on Thursday as farmers, trade unions and opposition parties converged on a single demand: justice for Parvinder Singh Jhota, an anti-drug activist shot dead in Mansa, and accountability from a government that promised a drug-free state. The shooting took place on October 13. Jhota went to a chemists shop [] The post Activist Gunned Down, Punjab Shut Down: AAPs War on Drugs Stands Exposed as Farmers Turn on Mann appeared first on Tfipost.com .
Punjab Bandh: Massive Traffic Jams In Mohali As Protesters Block Highways, Key Junctions
Punjab is observing a bandh on Thursday, bringing traffic to a standstill at several junctions, disrupting movement towards Chandigarh and forcing businesses to shut. With protesters blocking major roads, people are struggling to reach their destinations, while police personnel are trying
Demand for CBI Investigation into the Murder of Anti-Drug Activist in Punjab
A public interest petition seeks a CBI probe into the murder of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Punjab, following public outrage. Demand for CBI Investigation into the Murder of Anti-Drug Activist in Punjab
Mansa SHO Suspended After Activist Killed
Anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota was fatally shot in Mansa by a medical store owner on Tuesday. Following demands from Jhota's family, who are refusing to perform his last rites, the SHO of City-2 police station, Beant Kaur, was suspended on Thursday. The incident, which occurred during a Facebook Live, has ignited a political controversy in Punjab, leading to a state-wide bandh call by Jhota's father, supported by various political parties and unions.
17 children, one teacher killed after school's roof collapses in Pakistan's Peshawar
Digital Desk | Islamabad, Oct 15 (IANS) At least 17 children and one female teacher were killed and more than 30 others injured after the roof of a private school collapsed in Pakistan's Peshawar on Thursday, local media reported. Lady Reading Hospital spokesperson Muhammad Asim confirmed the casualties and said that an emergency has been declared at the hospital, leading Pakistani daily The Express Tribune reported. He said that the injured were undergoing medical treatment, with some in critical condition. Asim further mentioned that all the children were aged 13 years and below. Upon receiving the information, ambulances and disaster response vehicles reached the site of the incident and launched a rescue operation. Rescue 1122 ambulances provided first aid to over eight injured children before taking them to hospital. The rescue operation was being conducted at the site to find more people trapped under the rubble, with fears that the death toll could increase, The Express Tribune reported. Reports suggest that roof and building collapses are a recurring problem in Pakistan, where weak safety enforcement and substandard construction materials have repeatedly contributed to such tragedies. In August, a couple was killed, and their daughters were injured after the roof of their house collapsed in Islamabad after three days of heavy rainfall, another Pakistani daily Dawn reported. Earlier in June, as many as 14 children were killed after the roof of a private tuition centre in the Kahna area of Pakistan's Lahore. The incident took place less than two months after four children were killed and 20 people were injured after the roof of a classroom at a private school collapsed in Dera Ghazi Khan city of Pakistan's Punjab, Dawn reported. In a separate incident in June, a labourer was killed, and three others were injured after the roof of an under-construction building collapsed in Khawaspur locality of Gujrat in Pakistan's Punjab province.
Anti-drug activist's murder: Markets, private schools shut at many places after 'Punjab Bandh' call
Jhota's family had given the call for 'Punjab Bandh' with support from political parties including Congress, Akali Dal, BJP and Akali Dal Waris Punjab De
Amarinder Warring a fighter, will play very important role in Punjab polls: Sachin Pilot
Like I said, he's done a lot of work for young people, he's actually encouraged them to come forward and, you know, fight the Aam Aadmi Party. But during elections, there are many things that one considers and the leadership decided that in UP and Punjab, we have to appoint new presidents, says Sachin Pilot
Punjab Congress President Accuses Anti-Drone Officer of Drug Trafficking
Punjab Congress leader Paragat Singh claims a police officer assigned to an anti-drone system was caught trafficking drugs, raising concerns over drug control efforts. Punjab Congress President Accuses Anti-Drone Officer of Drug Trafficking
Punjab Police Arrests Key Suspect Gurdeep Singh in Tarn Taran Murder Case
Punjab Police have arrested Gurdeep Singh, the main suspect in a murder case from Tarn Taran, following a coordinated operation with Haryana authorities. Punjab Police Arrests Key Suspect Gurdeep Singh in Tarn Taran Murder Case
Punjab bandh over anti-drug activist Parminder Singh Jhotas murder
Heavy police deployment was witnessed in Amritsar on Thursday as farmers and workers organisations called a Punjab bandh over the alleged murder of anti-drug activist Parminder Singh Jhota in Mansa
Punjab Bandh Over Anti-Drug Activist Murder Disrupts Transport, Markets Shut
Shops, markets and bakeries remained closed across parts of Punjab as a statewide bandh over the murder of anti-drug activist Parminder Singh Jhota affected transport services, with protesters demanding justice and action against officials.
A Murder For Rs 11,000: Punjab's Crime Issue Is Worse Than You Thought
Punjab bandh: Markets shut, schools closed over anti-drug activist's murder
Markets at many places remained shut, and private schools in several districts were closed in Punjab on Thursday in view of a bandh called over the murder of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota. Jhota's family had given the call for 'Punjab Bandh' with support from political parties including Congress, Akali Dal, BJP and Akali Dal Waris Punjab De; farmers' body Samyukta Kisan Morcha and other farmers' unions; and state government employees' unions. Jhota, known for raising his voice against drug abuse and illegal sale of addictive substances at chemist shops, was shot in broad daylight at a busy marketplace in Mansa town on Tuesday. Ashwani Kumar, the medical store owner who allegedly opened fire on Jhota, was taken into custody from Rajasthan's Salasar on Wednesday. Following the bandh call, shops and markets remained shut at several places, including Hoshiarpur, Ferozepur and Mansa. However, emergency services remained operational. Many private schools in Hoshiarpur, Jaland
'Anything is possible in politics': Pilot on Captain Amarinder's Congress return speculation
Sachin Pilot addressed speculation regarding Captain Amarinder Singh's potential return to the Congress party. Singh has recently expressed dissatisfaction with the BJP and indicated challenges he is facing. Pilot acknowledged Singh's contributions to Punjab and his stature in politics. While there is speculation regarding Singh's future, no direct discussions have occurred between them. The political landscape in Punjab may continue to change as circumstances evolve.
Pak Drone Drop: Rajasthan Cops Suspected Drugs, Found Ready-To-Use Bomb
Investigators suspect the consignment may have been intended for a terror attack, possibly during the festive season or in the run-up to elections in Punjab
Punjab Bandh Over Anti-Drug Activists Murder; Heavy Police Deployment in Amritsar
Police said adequate security arrangements had been made to maintain law and order during the bandh
Punjab, Chandigarh weather today: Check latest updates on orange alert, hail and thunderstorms
Punjab and Chandigarh are under an IMD orange alert for Thursday, October 15, as thunderstorms, lightning, gusty winds and isolated hailstorms are forecast. A yellow alert has been issued for Friday. The weather warning comes as harvested paddy lies exposed at grain markets across Punjab, raising concerns about crop damage. Conditions are expected to improve over the weekend.
Punjab bandh in Amritsar follows killing of anti-drug activist Parminder Singh Jhota
The News Mill
Punjab Band Today October 15: Timing, reason, are banks open? Check bus and train updates
Punjab Band Today News: Punjab Bandh on October 15 will be observed from 6 am to 5 pm following the killing of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa. Check the latest updates on bank operations, school closures, bus and train services, markets and emergency services.
Farmers Protest Against Drug Abuse in Amritsar, Call for Punjab Shutdown
Farmers in Amritsar staged a protest against drug abuse and government policies, calling for a statewide shutdown in Punjab. Farmers Protest Against Drug Abuse in Amritsar, Call for Punjab Shutdown
Prescript: The World Bank which developed the concept of the Ease of Doing Business in 2003 officially discontinued it in 2021 because of major data manipulations. During 2024-2026, the Bank rolled out a redesigned framework, Business Ready (B-READY) which shifts the focus from narrow regulatory checkboxes to evaluating a countrys business environment, balancing the ease of commercial operations with public interest protections like environmental sustainability and labour rights. Historically placed in the lowest tier of Emerging Business Ecosystems in India, J&K climbed rather dramatically to 5th rank in the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) in 2025. It was designated as a Top Achiever by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade at the national Udyog Samagam after scoring top marks in 4 out of 5 critical reform categories. Spurred on by this success, the government introduced the J&K Ease of Doing Business Act, 2026. The Bill, which was endorsed by industry, trade and commerce bodies, has generated a well-informed debate among diverse stakeholders. Ideally, such a bill should have been put out for formal public consultation instead of taking an internal departmental route with a compressed legislative timetable. In the context of this debate, it might be useful to spell out that Ease of Doing Business is a horizontal clearance law. It is about reducing the time, cost and uncertainty of complying with rules that already exist; licences, inspections, information demands, timelines for decisions. EoDB sets the procedural floor. The directional ceiling will, hopefully, be set in the forthcoming Industrial Policy, 202635. It will identify priority sectors or activities, offers capital subsidies, tax or GST-linked benefits, interest subvention, land on preferential terms, or infrastructure. The distinction is important because a lot of what is applauded or apprehended from the EODB is neither its remit nor a consequence. Much of the public anxiety and expectation is from the wrong instrument. The J&K Ease of Doing Business Act, 2026, complies with the Centres Deregulation 2.0 push. As a result, the structure of the local economy and the nature of business activity have not shaped the design and contents of the J&K EoDB. Instead of making an EODB relevant for Kashmirs businesses, the working policy has been plagiarised from the Punjab EoDB Act. Punjab and Kashmir are chalk and cheese. One is a diversified economy with a broad manufacturing base and excellent market connectivity, and the other is a landlocked services-heavy, driven by horticulture and crafts with a thin micro-scale industrial sector. In Punjab, what impairs the ease of doing business are classic industrial speed breakers: factory licences, building approvals, inspections and land-use changes. The businesses in Kashmir, on the other hand, faces different binding constraints because most of the value and employment comes from primary production and services. Also, it is the informal household sector and not the estates and park-based enterprises that is driving businesses. To put it starkly, the EoDB is designed to helps a factory that is waiting on a building or trade licence. It does nothing for an orchardist whose constraint is a truck that has to clear the Banihal axis in time. Not a word about easing exports or negating the cost of being landlocked. In short, EoDB ought to have followed the actual structure of production, employment and trade of the local economy. Easing business is not only in relation to governmental intervention and interface but also alleviate structural constraints. A region specific EoDB law will still be primarily a process statute, but its definitions, tracks, timelines and supporting provisions will be relevant for the local economy. Of course, clearance delays matter in Kashmir too. But for a majority of business the unease comes from logistics, seasonal access, and land scarcity. While the EoDB speeds permissions, and sets rules to reduce bureaucratic delays, what it leaves completely unattended is the nature of business, local ownership, size class of business, and ESG. These are relevant and hence sensitive. For instance, anyone who files a Declaration of Intent is treated the same, whether a Srinagar workshop, a Jammu trader or an outside investor. There is no local-founder preference, no differential land term, no reserved park plots, and no scoring of proposals by local ownership. The preference for locals in employment that the EoDB has is enabling rather than operative. The Executive Committee may order that every enterprise with more than 10 employees to reserve a percentage of vacancies for domicile candidates. But without fixing any percentage in the Bill. Worse still, units with 10 or fewer workers which is the bulk of J&K establishments are outside even this power. Better to keep the employment-reservation power but make the percentage and the exemption process statutory and uniform and exempt local enterprises below a turnover threshold. In some instances, like the deemed registration of doctors and third-party certifiers already registered in another state or UT, makes outside professionals easier to use, not local ones. Why? The idea and intent have to be to give local enterprises concrete process benefits. Local enterprises being ones with majority ownership or control is by domicile individuals, cooperatives or producer companies. For example, priority in the 7- or 10-day tracks when capacity or plots are limited, or a longer inspection moratorium; four years instead of three. There has to be policy signalling. In addition to ownership, the EoDB simplifications should be stratified by size. Kashmir industry is overwhelmingly micro; it contributes 60 percent of industrial investment and close to 90 percent of industrial employment. The Bill must have size tools. This could include introducing a turnover band, a micro-versus-medium fee, no working-capital or inspection rule scaled to a 2-to-10-person workshop. Third, a lighter path should be created for a household enterprise as against a park-based plants. The fast lane in the EoDB Act is location: an approved industrial park gets three days; a unit outside waits ten times more! In a place where most units are not in parks, the size structure of the business and the speed structure of the Bill point in different directions. Fourth, a big fillip could have been given to logistics, which doesnt even find a mention in the bill. The District Empowered Committee, for instance, could be empowered to have an access protocol; priority movement windows, coordination with security forces, traffic and disaster authorities. This will ensure export goods movement (and closures) are managed by rule rather than ad-hoc orders of security forces. The instances of apples rotting on the road because of security forces movement are too many to recount. Finally, environment in the EoDB is a retained constraint, not an incentive. That is deregulation of process, not a green preference. To go green has to be incentivised by fast tracking operational permissions, provide renewable-energy setoffs, give longer moratorium for effluent or energy standards and emissions. These clauses remain inside a process statute: they accelerate and structurally favour the home-grown businesses and land-efficient projects that the local economy needs. Postscript: Domain experts have red flagged the EoDB Act enabling executive relaxations to bypass statutory Master Plans which risk environmental vulnerability. Valid as these concerns may be, they demand serious introspection, not shooting the messenger as has been done by the industry bodies. Despite elaborate master plans, beginning with the Srinagar Master Plan 197191 nearly fifty years ago, the city has seen only haphazard growth, illegal colonies, encroachments on government land, and development in flood-prone or ecologically sensitive areas. What gives? Their practical contribution has been marginal because of implementation and enforcement shortfalls. The contention is not to support wanton development but to introspect how master plans should be redone as living, enforceable frameworks that protect Kashmirs fragile ecology and mitigate disaster risks. Rigid paper blueprints, as the Master plans have been, are meant to be bypassed. The author is a Contributing Editor of Greater Kashmir.
