Ahead of 2027 Assembly election, Nitin Nabin kicks off three-day Punjab tour
The BJP president and senior State leaders assessed the current political situation in Punjab, with discussions focused on expanding the partys grassroots presence and ensuring greater coordination between the State leadership and booth-level workers
Violent protests erupted across the country on May 9, 2023, mainly in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, following the arrest of former cricketer-turned-politician Khan. The protesters vandalised dozens of military installations and state-owned buildings
Pressure Brings Out The Best In Me, Says Ujjain Falcons All-rounder Madhav Tiwari
Madhya Pradesh League: Ujjain Falcons seam-bowling all-rounder Madhav Tiwari says it is in the tightest moments of a game that his game truly comes alive, while crediting a single-minded focus on winning for the team rather than personal milestones for his consistent performances in the Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) T20 Scindia Cup 2026. Reflecting on his all-round show in the side beating Indore Pink Panthers, where he picked 3-22 and hit a valuable 31 off 34 balls, Tiwari put it down to a competitive streak in him that refuses to be satisfied. If I want to speak personally, I would have taken one more wicket. Every cricketer has a little bit of greed, as we want to do as well as they can. If I had finished in the batting and remained not out, then I would have been a little more satisfied, obviously. But at the end, the team won, and it's very nice, he said in an exclusive conversation with IANS on Saturday. Asked what allows him to thrive when games are on a knife-edge, Tiwari stated it boils down to keeping the team's result above everything else. I don't know when the situation is tough or challenging. Either my brain works very well there, or I don't know much, because when I play cricket, I have only one priority - how to get my team a win? So the pressure situation obviously triggers me a lot like how can I get my team out of here? I need that thing very badly, and I think that in those particular pressure situations, maybe my brain works well. In all, I would like to say that the brain works well. Skills, obviously, like I've been playing cricket for like 8-9 years now. So the skills part is going well and will continue to improve. But it's all mental when you are in a pressure situation and how badly you want to perform for your team, he said. Tiwari, who hails from Mauganj in Madhya Pradesh's Rewa district and has been part of the Delhi Capitals set-up in the IPL for the last two seasons, said the experience of being in the franchise and sharing the dressing room with the likes of Axar Patel, KL Rahul, Tristan Stubbs, Mitchell Starc, and David Miller has hugely influenced his approach towards the game. In IPL 2026, Tiwari had a breakthrough time by taking out Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Shubham Dubey, Priyansh Arya, and Cooper Connolly with his seam bowling skills and even hit a valuable cameo of 18 not out off eight balls to give DC a win over Punjab Kings in Dharamshala, thus earning him the Player of the Match award. It has been very, very helpful. I think I would like to say that as a cricketer, I focus on improving every year, and whether I am better this year than last year. When I came here from this IPL, I learnt a lot from my senior players. I had long conversations with them and with the coaches who have a lot of experience. I learnt a lot from them, and it was like, okay, I didn't get a lot of opportunities there, but I will try to implement that in MPL. I will try to become more consistent. So those things helped me a lot, he said. On juggling both bowling and batting responsibilities, with his 'I am a 100% batter and 100% bowler' comment from IPL 2026 still fresh in the memory, Tiwari admitted the responsibilities as an all-rounder are demanding, but it gives him more than one way to influence a matchs outcome. Managing it happens because there is a lot of hard work. But there are a lot of results and benefits. Obviously, I also want to say that I want to contribute 100 percent in my fielding. So it happens that there is a lot of hard work, but sometimes you don't have a good day of batting. But you can make a comeback and make your team win with your bowling. If you don't have a day in bowling, you can make your team win with your batting. So I think it's more or less just an excuse to make your team win at the end of the day, he said. The all-rounder also pointed to his fitness regimen as central to sustaining his game across formats and roles. Obviously, it is helping a lot. As an all-rounder, your life revolves around working on your skills, and then you just focus on how to do recovery. If you look at it, your whole day is spent on it. You have to do well, you have to recover, and you have to mentally be less affected. You don't have to think too much. So I think the more you stay mentally free, and the more you know what to do in a particular session, and then you work on those things, so I think it goes hand in hand, he said. Tiwari, who earned his Delhi Capitals contract on the back of his MPL performances, recalled how seriously he took the league from the very start. I think there is a lot of happiness. I had a gut feeling when I played at the MPL for the first time and realised how important this platform is. I took it very seriously. I was waiting for a call from the franchise for the trials. Then the Delhi Capitals called me for the trials. On going there, it was very intimidating to see everyone. Obviously, they must have called all the best players in India for the trials. You have to be selected and go through them. In the beginning, it felt like a few hours or minutes. It was just that now that I have come here, I have to be selected. This was in my mind, and luckily, I was selected in my first year and was very fortunate for it, he said. With Ujjain Falcons facing long odds of a play-offs berth, Tiwari signed off by saying the focus has shifted to finishing the season strongly. Our last match is still left to play. We were not lucky enough and missed crucial moments in some matches, and lost games. It is very tough for us to get qualified. You have to be selected and go through them. In the beginning, it felt like a few hours or minutes. It was just that now that I have come here, I have to be selected. This was in my mind, and luckily, I was selected in my first year and was very fortunate for it, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score --IANS Article Source: IANS
Celebrating the Legacy of Vishnu Prabhakar and Mudrarakshas: Two Giants of Hindi Literature
New Delhi, June 20: Vishnu Prabhakar, born on June 21, 1912, in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, was originally named Vishnu Dayal. During his school years, he was known as Vishnu Gupta, and in his professional life, he went by Vishnu Dharmadatt. After passing the Prabhakar examination at Punjab University, he adopted the name Vishnu Prabhakar upon ... Read more Celebrating the Legacy of Vishnu Prabhakar and Mudrarakshas: Two Giants of Hindi Literature
AAP Protests Outside BJP Leaders Home in Amritsar, Demands Release of Punjab Funds
Amritsar, June 20: Activists from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) staged a protest on Saturday against the central government by surrounding the residence of BJP National Secretary Tarun Chugh in Amritsar. During the demonstration, Punjab ministers Harbhajan Singh, MLA Dr. Inderbir Singh Nijjar, Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, and Ajay Gupta accused the central government of discrimination ... Read more AAP Protests Outside BJP Leaders Home in Amritsar, Demands Release of Punjab Funds
Gippy Grewal recalls 2023 firing incident outside Canada home
Punjabi singer and actor Gippy Grewal has finally opened up about the 2023 firing incident outside his home in Vancouver, Canada.
Parmish Verma stops Sri Ganganagar concert to help child found crying alone in crowd
Punjabi singer Parmish Verma halted his concert in Sri Ganganagar to help a lost child found crying alone in the crowd. Security brought the distressed boy onstage, prompting Verma to pause his performance and appeal for his parents. After reuniting the child with his mother, Verma emphasized the critical need for parental vigilance at public events, sparking widespread praise for his compassionate actions and raising awareness about child safety.
Diljit honoured with 'Diljit Dosanjh Day' by LA city council
Los Angeles has officially declared January 6, 2027, as 'Diljit Dosanjh Day' in a special civic honour. The Los Angeles City Council recognized the Punjabi singer and actor for his significant role in globalizing Punjabi music and championing South Asian culture in mainstream American entertainment. Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez introduced the resolution, marking a major milestone in Dosanjh's international career. Fans celebrated the news online, praising the artist's achievements.
Have you Heard? Diljit Dosanjh gets a day dedicated to him in Los Angeles
Punjabi singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh has received a major international honour, with the Los Angeles City Council declaring January 6, 2027 as 'Diljit Dosanjh Day'. The recognition celebrates his role in taking Punjabi music and culture to audiences worldwide
Dearness Allowance: DA is the component of the basic salary that is periodically adjusted for inflation. Here's all we know about the Punjab, West Bengal and Himachal Pradesh state governments' discussions on respective DA hikes.
Nimrrit Kaur Ahluwalia says shooting Ab Hoga Hisaab in Punjab felt like being home. The actor also praised co-star Sanjay Kapoor for his warmth and humility, saying he made everyone feel included on set
PMSBY coverage crosses 29 lakh in J&K
J&K Bank leads with 12.82 lakh enrolments Srinagar, Jun 19: The Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) has covered over 29 lakh people across Jammu and Kashmir, reflecting thegrowing outreach of the flagship social security schemeacross the Union Territory. According to official data on the cumulative progress of PMSBY as of December 31, 2025, a total of 29,08,607 enrolments have been recorded in J&K. Of these, 21,56,103 beneficiaries belong to rural areas while 7,52,374 are from urban areas, indicating the scheme's extensive penetration in the countryside. The data reveals that against an annual target of 5,82,037 enrolments for 2025-26, banks in the Union Territory achieved 5,54,812 enrolments during the period under review. J&K Bank emerged as the leading contributor to the scheme, accounting for 12,82,148 cumulative enrolments, including 10,82,352 rural and 1,99,796 urban subscribers. The bank also surpassed its annual target by achieving 3,37,717 enrolments against a target of 1,86,000. Jammu and Kashmir Grameen Bank (JKGB) ranked second with 5,48,734 cumulative enrolments, while the State Bank of India recorded 4,47,811 enrolments. Punjab National Bank followed with 2,17,012 subscribers. The insurance scheme, which provides accidental death and disability cover, has also facilitated claim settlements for affected families. The report shows that 1,469 claims were received under PMSBY across J&K. Of these, 1,209 claims were settled, 131 were rejected, and 130 remain under process. A total claim amount of Rs 23.75 crore has been disbursed to beneficiaries and their families under the scheme. Among banks, J&K Bank recorded the highest number of claims with 815 cases received, followed by JKGB with 221 claims and the State Bank of India with 170 claims. J&K Bank also accounted for the highest claim payout of Rs 12.92 crore. Officials said the figures underline the growing awareness and acceptance of government-backed social security schemes among citizens, particularly in rural areas, helping provide financial protection against accidental death and disability.
Farmers Demand Urgent Action from Punjab Governor on Water and Debt Issues
Chandigarh, June 20: The Samyukt Kisan Morcha met with Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria to submit a memorandum outlining key demands from farmers. Balbir Singh Rajewal, founder of the Bharatiya Kisan Union, shared details of the meeting with reporters. Rajewal highlighted concerns regarding water quality, stating that the current supply contains uranium and heavy metals. ... Read more Farmers Demand Urgent Action from Punjab Governor on Water and Debt Issues
Punjab Will Blossom Under Modis Leadership: Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini
Sirsa, June 20: Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini stated on Friday that under Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership, the lotus will bloom in Punjab during the upcoming assembly elections. He emphasized that the welfare schemes implemented by the double-engine government in Haryana are being discussed in Punjab as well. Saini accused the current Punjab ... Read more Punjab Will Blossom Under Modis Leadership: Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini
Judging with Machines, Deciding as Humans: Human-in-the-Loop AI in Criminal Justice
In a criminal justice system operating under immense institutional pressure, Human-in-the-Loop AI has to be approached with an open mind JAASIR ASHRAF MIR The Supreme Courts decision, while granting bail to the accused in Syed Iftikhar Andrabi v. National Investigation Agency (2026), has brought in again in discussions a fundamental question in Indian criminal law pertaining to the role of courts in promoting consistency in the exercise of judicial discretion while preserving judicial independence, constitutional guarantees, and the flexibility necessary to achieve justice in individual cases. The immediate context of this question arises prominently in bail adjudication under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, particularly Section 43D(5) of UAPA; however, it extends across criminal procedure more broadly. That the Supreme Courts Draft Regulations for the Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Courts, 2026, has further made the issue expedient. In this article, I make an exploration, whether a carefully regulated Human-in-the-Loop AI framework can assist judicial decision-making. Further, it argues that whether AI must never replace judicial reasoning or determine outcomes, even if it may help reduce arbitrariness, promote greater consistency, and support a more structured balancing of competing interests affecting personal liberty, thereby strengthening the rule of law. Judicial Discretion, Personal Liberty, and the Quest for Consistency in Bail Adjudication Bail adjudication under the UAPA is not often a routine procedural exercise. It calls upon the courts to balance personal liberty, national security, evidentiary thresholds, and constitutional rights. Central to such bail matters lies a continuing tension wherein courts must safeguard the individuals right to personal liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution while simultaneously addressing concerns relating to national security, public safety, the integrity of criminal investigations, and the effective administration of justice. Bail jurisprudence, therefore, operates within a framework shaped ordinarily by competing constitutional considerations and demands a harmonious approach. In the final analysis of such determination, Judicial discretion remains central to the exercise. Criminal cases differ in their facts, evidentiary records, procedural histories, and social contexts. Any attempt to eliminate discretion would equally risk undermining the ethos of justice itself. However, at the same time, discretion presents institutional challenges equally. In situations where similarly situated individuals approach different courts or even different benches of the same court, outcomes may vary considerably. The concern, therefore, is not the existence of discretion but the manner in which discretion is exercised and applied. A legal system committed to equality before the law and equal protection of the laws benefits from coherence, predictability, and reasoned consistency in judicial decision-making. In the Nature of the Judicial Process, Justice Benjamin Cardozo offers important insights into judicial decision-making. He explains that judicial decision-making is not a mechanical exercise involving the simple application of pre-existing rules. Rather, in cases where the law is incomplete or unsettled, judges inevitably draw upon precedent, logic, history, custom, and considerations of social utility. At the same time, Cardozo recognised that in straightforward cases, where clear statutory language or binding precedent exists, the judicial role is largely confined to applying the law to the facts before the court. The concern of discretionary power or, for that matter, the debate regarding it, is not new; it is as old as the laws. However, Andrabis case, when juxtaposed with the Supreme Court's AI draft regulation, provide us an opportunity to kick start the discussion regarding the exercise of discretionary power under the UAPA. More so, considering the inconsistency flagged by the Supreme Court in the Andrabi judgment. The Supreme Courts decision in Union of India v. K.A. Najeeb (2021) marked a significant constitutional intervention in UAPA bail Jurisprudence. In Najeeb, the Court laid down the principle that constitutional courts are not rendered powerless merely because Parliament has enacted restrictive bail provisions. The Court held that prolonged incarceration and a delayed trial may itself amount to a violation of Article 21. This situation leads to the continuing tension between the constitutional guarantee of personal liberty under Article 21 and statutory provisions that impose stringent restrictions on the grant of bail. In appropriate cases, therefore, continued detention may raise constitutional concerns under Article 21 even under a special statute containing a stringent embargo on bail. Following Najeeb, courts have been required to navigate the relationship between two distinct standards. The first is the statutory threshold under Section 43D(5) under UAPA, which requires courts to determine whether there are reasonable grounds for believing that the accusation is prima facie true. The second is the constitutional obligation to protect personal liberty and guard against indefinite incarceration. Subsequent decisions, including Gurwinder Singh v. State of Punjab (2024) and Gulfisha Fatima v. State (Govt. of NCT of Delhi) (2026), illustrate how courts have approached this tension differently in practice, particularly where the statutory embargo continues to weigh heavily despite significant delays in trial. The jurisprudence emanating from the Najeeb, Gurwinder Singh, and Gulfisha has therefore produced an inconsistent jurisprudence leading to confusion, which doesn't abode well for the rule of law. Following Najeeb, the SC in Andrabi appears to continue the constitutional balancing exercise. The Supreme Court, while granting bail to Andrabi, reaffirmed that the principles articulated in Najeeb in 2021 remain relevant where incarceration has become prolonged and the prospects of trial appear remote. Arguably, the judgment may be read as an effort to preserve the primacy of liberty while remaining attentive to the statutory framework of the UAPA. Whether the precedent set now reflects continuity or a context-specific refinement is a matter on which reasonable views may differ. Across Indias criminal justice system, the underlying challenge is broader than any single statute. Judges are routinely required to decide bail applications, remand matters, anticipatory bail petitions, and other pre-trial issues under substantial institutional constraints. Heavy caseloads, voluminous records, limited hearing time, and an ever-expanding body of precedent create conditions in which variations in reasoning and outcomes may be difficult to avoid. If consistency is to be improved without reducing the quality of the verdict into a mechanical exercise, the question to be considered now is how assistive technology can support judicial reasoning without displacing it. Human-in-the-Loop AI and the Supreme Court's Draft Regulatory Framework Constitutional Safeguards, Judicial Primacy, and the Future of Criminal Justice Indeed, the safeguards accompanying any technological intervention in the justice delivery system are important. However, if the use of technology and use of judicial primacy is used in a way which will aid in protecting constitutional values, consistency, transparency, explainability, auditability, data integrity, accountability, and strengthen the rule of law, it can revolutionise the whole justice system. The draft regulations is rightly a significant development and providing safeguards regarding the use and against automation bias, which is also essential, since judges may, in practice, attach undue weight to outputs that appear objective or technologically sophisticated. Since the legal processes become increasingly digital, interaction between technology and adjudication may become unavoidable. The more important question, therefore, is not whether technology should enter the courtroom. In many respects, it already has, and we experience it. The real issue is how it should be structured so that it supports constitutional values rather than weakening them. The recent trajectory of bail jurisprudence quoted above under the UAPA helps explain why this inquiry matters. In a legal system where liberty often depends upon the interpretation of precedent, and where similar factual situations can sometimes produce different outcomes, consistency is not merely an administrative preference. It is closely connected to equality before the law, procedural fairness, and the rule of law itself. Human-in-the-Loop AI may or may not eventually provide part of the answer. Even so, the scale, complexity, and institutional demands of Indias criminal justice system make it a question worthy of serious consideration. The issue should perhaps be viewed not as a technological solution to a legal problem, but as a constitutional and institutional inquiry into how courts might preserve coherence, consistency, transparency, proportionality and fairness in the administration of justice while strengthening the rule of law. The Supreme Courts draft Regulations for Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Courts, 2026, is therefore a significant development. The article lays more emphasis on all stakeholder participation in the consultation process, as it is likely to be crucial if the eventual framework is to support the rule of law while preserving judicial reasoning, judicial independence, and the human responsibility that remains central to adjudication. Draft Regulation on AI as a way forward and Preserving Judicial Primacy The active participation of experts and all stakeholders is important as to make the final regulations on AI useful, which will result in extracting maximum benefits from technological uses without compromising on a human-centric framework and reflecting a clear preference for judicial primacy. Today, the challenge is not one between judges and machines. Rather, it is how to reduce arbitrariness, minimise inconsistency, and ensure that the proportionality-based balancing of competing interests affecting personal liberty is undertaken in a more structured, transparent, and principled manner that strengthens the rule of law. In a criminal justice system operating under immense institutional pressure, Human-in-the-Loop AI has to be approached with an open mind and may offer one possible means of advancing these objectives while preserving judicial primacy. Whether it can do so effectively, however, remains a question that warrants sustained empirical and normative inquiry, one that Indian criminal jurisprudence can no longer afford to ignore. (The Author is LLM, SOAS as a Chevening Scholar (202324). Senior Prosecuting Officer, Government of Jammu and Kashmir)
AK-47 Rifle, 26 Pistols Seized Near Indo-Pak Border In Amritsar, 1 Arrested
Punjab Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav said preliminary investigation revealed that the accused was acting on the directions of an Australia-based associate, who allegedly shared the weapons' drop location through social media applications.
Ex-Punjab cop, associates arrested for Rs 10 cr extortion bid in Delhi
Akali Dal Accuses CM Bhagwant Mann of Undermining Akal Takhts Authority
Chandigarh, June 20: The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) executive committee criticized Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for allegedly challenging the authority of the Akal Takht on public platforms, which they claim is hurting the religious sentiments of the people. During a meeting chaired by party president Sukhbir Singh Badal, the committee stated that Mann is ... Read more Akali Dal Accuses CM Bhagwant Mann of Undermining Akal Takhts Authority
BSF busts major arms haul in Punjab, AK rifle, 25 pistols seized
SKM Punjab delegation mets governor, seeks MSP law, BBMB membership restoration
UPSC to meet on June 30 to shortlist panel for regular Punjab DGP
Punjabi teen held for murder of parents & grandmom in Texas
Bdeshi kids found in Punjab repatriated safely home
Punjab Chief Minister Lays Foundation for 61.82 Crore Dhussi Dam Link Road Project
Chandigarh, June 19: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann laid the foundation stone for the Dhussi Dam Link Road project on Friday. The project, costing 61.82 crore, will span 37.93 kilometers in Jalandhar district. It aims to provide a permanent solution to the long-standing flood issues in the Sutlej region. This project will connect the Shahkot-Moga-Rampur ... Read more Punjab Chief Minister Lays Foundation for 61.82 Crore Dhussi Dam Link Road Project
Jatinder Pal Malhotra Clarifies Controversial Remarks, Expresses Regret for Any Offense Caused
Chandigarh, June 19: Jatinder Pal Malhotra, the Chandigarh BJP president, has addressed the political controversy surrounding his recent controversial remarks. He stated that his comments were made in a light-hearted manner regarding the identity of Punjab and Punjabis. Malhotra emphasized that his statement was taken out of context, leading to unnecessary disputes. He expressed regret ... Read more Jatinder Pal Malhotra Clarifies Controversial Remarks, Expresses Regret for Any Offense Caused
Gippy Grewal Reflects on His Journey from Security Guard to Stardom on Shekhar Sumans Show
Mumbai, June 19: Actor Shekhar Sumans talk show, Shekhar Tonight, unveils the lesser-known aspects of celebrities lives with each episode. Recently, Punjabi superstar Gippy Grewal shared his untold stories on the show. Currently, Gippy Grewal is in the spotlight for his upcoming film Carry On Jatta 4. During his candid conversation with host Shekhar Suman, ... Read more Gippy Grewal Reflects on His Journey from Security Guard to Stardom on Shekhar Sumans Show
Nimrat Kaur Shares Heartfelt Experience While Shooting Ab Hoga Hisab
Mumbai, June 19: Actress Nimrat Kaur Ahluwalia is currently in the spotlight for her upcoming series Ab Hoga Hisab, where she portrays a character from Punjab. She recently opened up about her experiences during the shooting of the series. Nimrat expressed, In this series, I play a Punjabi girl. Since I am Punjabi myself, everything ... Read more Nimrat Kaur Shares Heartfelt Experience While Shooting Ab Hoga Hisab
Why Bhagwant Mann-Akal Takht Row Could Reshape Punjab Politics Ahead of 2027
The controversy is no longer merely about a viral video; it has evolved into a contest between competing narratives.
Defying village whispers, Rashdeep Kaur's father championed her athletic dreams. Despite societal taunts and financial hardship, his unwavering belief propelled her forward. Now, Rashdeep represents India in the 4x400m relay at the Commonwealth Games, a testament to parental faith and a daughter's dedication, proving that with support, no goal is out of reach.
Jammu Criminal Trio Arrested After 500-km Escape, Police Probe Gangster and Extortion Links
SRINAGAR: Three men accused in the sensational daylight killing of a pharmacy cashier in Chandigarh have been arrested from Jammu and Kashmir following a multi-state manhunt that stretched across Punjab, Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir, with investigators now probing possible links to organised crime syndicates and extortion networks. The victim, 45-year-old Janki Das, was shot []
2 Khalistani operatives involved in targeting rail corridor in Punjab deported from Malaysia
Punjab Police have arrested two wanted operatives of the banned Khalistan Zindabad Force. The duo was deported from Malaysia and apprehended at Delhi airport. They were allegedly involved in a terror module targeting railway infrastructure in Punjab. The arrested individuals are accused of channeling funds for terrorist activities. Investigations are ongoing to uncover the full network.
'Actor used, features don't match': CM Bhagwant Mann cites 2 new reports in sacrilege video row
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's government presented reports from two independent labs outside the state, claiming they prove he is not in an alleged sacrilege video. This contradicts earlier findings by government-approved labs, prompting Mann to demand a probe into a conspiracy to defame him.
Two Wanted KZF Members Deported from Malaysia, Arrested by Punjab Police
New Delhi, June 19: Punjab Police has successfully deported two wanted members of the banned Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF) from Malaysia, following a significant operation based on intelligence information. This achievement was made possible with the assistance of central agencies and the Royal Malaysia Police (RMP), as confirmed by the Director General of Police (DGP) ... Read more Two Wanted KZF Members Deported from Malaysia, Arrested by Punjab Police
Gurnoor Brar credits India 'A' pathway and Siraj for international success
Gurnoor Brar, a 26-year-old Punjab pacer, has ignited excitement in Indian cricket with his consistent 140+ kmph pace and ability to hit the deck hard. He recently impressed by taking six wickets against Afghanistan in two ODIs. Brar emphasizes preparation over results and has learned valuable lessons from his IPL experiences, even without playing, by observing senior bowlers.
1 in 4 Punjab govt hospital patients not satisfied with medicines available: Survey
BJP president Nitin Nabin to begin 3-day Punjab visit on June 20
Akali Dal to Launch Protest Against Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann on June 19
Chandigarh, June 18: The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has announced a Dharam Yudh Morcha set to commence on June 19 from Sri Akal Takht Sahib. This initiative aims to remove Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who has been accused of grave sacrilege. SAD President Sukhbir Badal stated that the protest will be held under the spiritual ... Read more Akali Dal to Launch Protest Against Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann on June 19
AAP claims forensic tests cleared Punjab CM Mann in sacrilege video row
Akali Dal dares the Chief Minister to undergo lie detector test
BJP President Nitin Naveen to Visit Punjab from June 20 to 22
Chandigarh, June 18: Nitin Naveen, the National President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), will embark on a three-day tour of Punjab from June 20 to 22. During his visit, he will participate in various religious, social, organizational, and intellectual events in Amritsar, Jalandhar, and Ludhiana. He will also attend a program at Lovely Professional ... Read more BJP President Nitin Naveen to Visit Punjab from June 20 to 22
CRICKET | Gurnoor validates selectors decision to fast-track him into national side
The Punjab lads USP is his hit-the-deck style, but over the past week, he has shown that there is more to him, including fuller-length deliveries and yorkers
Discover the fascinating history of dodha barfi, a beloved Indian sweet believed to have been created by a Punjabi wrestler more than a century ago. Made from simple ingredients such as milk, ghee, sugar and nuts, this chewy mithai has grown far beyond its regional roots to become a favourite among sweet lovers across India and around the world. Its enduring popularity reflects the rich culinary traditions that continue to connect generations through food.
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh has announced that the long-pending Shahpur Kandi Project on the River Ravi is nearing completion, raising hopes among farmers in Jammu and Kashmir's Samba and Kathua districts. The project is expected to bring irrigation to over 32,000 hectares of barren land in the Kandi belt and benefit thousands of hectares in Punjab's Pathankot district.
Phoenix Marketcity Mumbai Takes Over Jagruti Nagar Metro Station
Phoenix Marketcity Mumbai, one of the city’s most iconic shopping, dining, and entertainment destinations, announces a strategic branding initiative with Mumbai Metro, under which Jagruti Nagar Metro Station is branded as “ Phoenix Jagruti Nagar .” Phoenix Jagruti Nagar Located on the Versova - Ghatkopar corridor, one of Mumbai’s busiest east-west transit routes, Jagruti Metro Station offers access to a high-density commuter base. With seamless interchanges at Andheri and Ghatkopar connecting to suburban rail networks - and further integration with upcoming metro corridors - the line serves as a critical mobility backbone for the city. Mumbai Metro Line 1 witnesses a daily footfall of over 1 million commuters, spanning young professionals and students. At Jagruti Nagar Metro Station, average daily footfall stands at approximately 25,000 commuters, translating to nearly 7.5 lakh monthly. With an average travel time of approximately 20 minutes across the line, the environment offers brands sustained visibility and uninterrupted engagement. Exclusive station branding, in this context, enables brands to seamlessly integrate brand messaging along passenger journey asides to create a landmark presence - driving both recall and meaningful interaction across multiple commuter touchpoints. It delivers a unique reach over 1.4 lakh commuters and approximately 1.7 million impressions. Long term presence also helps build trust among regular metro commuters as well as road level commuters. Times OOH, having exclusive marketing rights for Mumbai Metro Line 1, has worked closely with Phoenix Marketcity to execute this large-scale branding initiative. This initiative taps into the station’s daily surge of commuters, transforming routine travel into repeated moments of brand recall. By placing Phoenix Marketcity Mumbai at a key urban access point, the association converts everyday movement into heightened visibility, stronger proximity and increased frequency of visits. With this collaborative partnership for the metro station, Phoenix has further become a part of the commuter journey integrated seamlessly across signage, maps, announcements and navigation, turning a transit hub into a powerful reminder of the mall. Commenting on the initiative, Vikas Shetty, Senior Vice President Leasing & Retail Director, The Phoenix Mills Ltd. , said, “ With the Phoenix Jagruti Nagar metro station branding, we’re strengthening Phoenix Marketcity Mumbai’s presence within the city’s daily movement patterns. By enhancing visibility at a key transit point, we are reinforcing the mall’s position as a well-connected destination within commuters’ everyday routines. Phoenix Marketcity Mumbai is already part of the city’s lifestyle fabric, and this initiative allows us to engage with consumers at another meaningful touchpoint, further deepening that connection .” Through the “Phoenix Jagruti Nagar” station branding, Phoenix Marketcity Mumbai aligns with the city’s evolving urban movement patterns, reinforcing its role as a conveniently accessible lifestyle destination that fits naturally into Mumbai’s everyday commute. Adding to the partnership, Rohit Chopra, COO, Times OOH , said, “ Phoenix is among the first brands from the retail shopping category to leverage a differentiated format like Exclusive Station Branding on Mumbai Metro. By transforming Jagruti Metro Station into an immersive brand environment, Phoenix Marketcity is extending its presence beyond physical retail spaces to build stronger recall and deeper relatability among daily commuters . What makes this initiative compelling is the brand’s strategic use of multiple formats across the station—creating a cohesive, high-impact visual experience. The vibrant design language not only enhances commuter engagement but also integrates seamlessly into their daily journeys. We believe this initiative will significantly strengthen Phoenix’s connection with Mumbai’s urban audience .” About Phoenix Marketcity Mumbai Phoenix Marketcity Mumbai is the city’s premier destination for shopping, entertainment, and dining. Established in 2011, it covers 2.1 million square feet and attracts over 1.2 million visitors annually, making it the largest mall in Mumbai. It houses international brands like Zara, Uniqlo, Marks & Spencer, H&M, Mango, Victoria’s Secret, Vero Moda, Bath and Body Works and Indian favourites like Nykaa Luxe, Masaba, Meena Bazaar, Lifestyle, Westside and many more. With a variety of entertainment hotspots like The Game Palacio, PVR P[XL] and 4Dx, Timezone, etc. & over 100 top notch eateries, including Ishaara, Toscano, Punjab Grill, Café Delhi Heights, Pop Tates, Irish House, Tim Hortons, Pret A Manger, Starbucks etc. – there’s something for every mood, every day and every walk of life. The mall also roofs the iconic Dublin Square – the city’s biggest indoor concert venue – hosting some of the most iconic artists like Passengers, Steve Vai, Ronan Keating, Quickstyle, MLTR, Lucky Ali, Amit Trivedi, Vengaboys, Shankar Mahadevan, Sonu Nigam and many more. Phoenix Marketcity Mumbai promises the perfect amalgamation of retail and leisure for the entire family.
Punjab Government Addresses Controversial Video Allegations
Mumbai, June 18: Political tensions have escalated in Punjab following the emergence of a controversial video allegedly involving Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. On Thursday, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) spokesperson Baltej Pannu held a press conference to present the governments stance and disclose the findings of an investigation. During the ... Read more Punjab Government Addresses Controversial Video Allegations
Watch: The multi cornered fight for Punjab | Talking Politics
Punjab goes to polls next year along with a few other States. Suddenly, all parties in the fray have become very active in the political field. Whats the difference between the scene in 2022 and now? Has the novelty of the ruling Aam Aadmi Party faded? We are joined by The Hindus Punjab correspondent, Vikas Vasudeva.
Punjab Police Busts Arms Smuggling Gang, Eight Arrested
Chandigarh, June 18: Punjab Police has successfully dismantled an organized gang involved in the smuggling of illegal arms across the border, arresting eight suspects in the process. According to police officials, interrogations of the arrested individuals are underway to identify other members of the network and uncover the entire smuggling module. This operation was announced ... Read more Punjab Police Busts Arms Smuggling Gang, Eight Arrested
Guru Randhawa gym firing: Men linked to Bishnoi gang arrested
Two suspected members of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang have been taken into custody for their alleged involvement in a firing incident outside a gym associated with Punjabi singer Guru Randhawa, according to PTI.
The Supreme Court has expressed serious concern over repeated recusals by judges of the Punjab and Haryana High Court in a case relating to a former judicial officers challenge to his dismissal from service, while emphasising that judges must not yield to pressure tactics and should discharge their duties fearlessly. The Bench of Chief Justice [] The post Supreme Court concerned over repeated recusals by Punjab and Haryana High Court judges in dismissed judicial officers case appeared first on India Legal .
Sanskritik YatraSindhu Darshan festival celebrates Indias cultural diversity
Srinagar, Jun 17: The Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL), in collaboration with the North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC), Patiala and All J&K Christian Sabha, organized the vibrant Sanskritik Yatra 2026Sindhu Darshan Festival at Tagore Hall, Srinagar. MLA Lal Chowk, Sheikh Ahsan Ahmed Pardesi, graced the occasion as the chief guest while MLA Ramnagar, Dr. Sunil Bhardwaj, attended as the guest of honour. Principal Secretary, Culture, Brij Mohan Sharma, was the special guest on the occasion. The programme was attended by the artists, religious leaders, students, cultural enthusiasts and citizens in a unique celebration of Indias rich cultural heritage and collective commitment towards a drug-free society. Secretary JKAACL Harvinder Kour highlighted the importance of cultural exchange programmes in strengthening the national integration and preserving Indias rich artistic traditions. She said that such initiatives provide an ideal platform for the artists from different regions to interact, learn from one another and celebrate the spirit of Unity in Diversity. Addressing the gathering, Sheikh Ahsan Ahmed Pardesi lauded JKAACL, NZCC and All J&K Christian Sabha for organizing a programme that combined cultural celebration with a powerful social message. He observed that art, culture and languages are invaluable assets of every society and serve as bridges connecting people across regions, faiths and communities. He said that in an era marked by social and ideological divisions, cultural initiatives have an important role in promoting mutual respect, harmony and national integration. Referring to the theme of the programme, Pardesi expressed concern over the growing menace of drug abuse among the youth and emphasized that society must collectively address this challenge. He urged the young people to channel their energies towards education, sports, creativity and community service. Stressing that the future of the nation rests in the hands of its youth, he said that every stakeholder including parents, teachers, religious institutions and civil society organizations must work together to protect young minds from the dangers of addiction. He described drug abuse as a social challenge that can only be overcome through awareness, compassion, guidance and sustained community participation. Speaking on the occasion, MLA Ramnagar Dr. Sunil Bhardwaj, described the programme as a meaningful initiative that successfully integrated cultural exchange with social awareness. He said that the theme Unity of Religions Against Drug Abuse carries immense significance in the present times and demonstrates how cultural and religious institutions can contribute positively towards nation-building. Referring to the ongoing 100-Day Nasha Mukt Abhiyan in Jammu and Kashmir, he said that the campaign reflects the government's commitment to eliminate the scourge of drugs and creating a healthier society. Dr. Bhardwaj emphasized that art and culture are powerful mediums for educating and sensitizing youth about social issues. He stated that the vision of a Viksit Bharat can only be realised through a healthy, educated and empowered youth population. Various interfaith leaders, including representatives of different religious communities, also addressed the gathering and emphasized the collective responsibility of society in combating the drug abuse. They highlighted the crucial role of parents and families in sensitizing the children about the harmful consequences of addiction and promoting ethical and moral values from an early age. The audience was enthralled by a series of mesmerizing cultural performances representing the rich cultural ethos of different states of the country. Artists from Manipur presented the graceful Lai Harobba, Gujarat showcased the energetic Dandia Raas, Maharashtra presented the vibrant lavni while artists from Kashmir captivated the audience with an enthralling Dhamali folk dance. Odishas traditional Goti Pua, Rajasthans world-famous Kalbelia, and Punjabs energetic Bhangra added colour and vibrancy to the festival. Renowned folk and Sufi singer Manak Ali further enthralled the audience with soulful renditions blending spirituality and folk traditions.
Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh & Tamil Nadu top dole givers, says CAG report
In the past ten years, state subsidies have skyrocketed to Rs 4.4 lakh crore in 2024-25, marking a staggering threefold increase. The frontrunners in subsidy distribution as a slice of their overall budget include Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Punjab.
Jammu & Kashmir police bust narco-terror nexus with Punjab links, arrest 20
Punjabi varsity gets modern Cell Culture lab
Punjab BJP Chief Urges CM Bhagwant Mann to Learn from History
Chandigarh, June 17: Punjab BJP President Kaul Singh Dhillon advised Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to draw lessons from history. He reminded Mann that the Lion of Punjab, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, once bowed before the Akal Takht. Dhillon emphasized that the arrogance of political power should never overshadow the sanctity of the Gurus institution. He stated, ... Read more Punjab BJP Chief Urges CM Bhagwant Mann to Learn from History
Congress Confident of Victory in Punjab Assembly Elections, Says Leader Lakhbir Singh Lakha
New Delhi, June 17: During a recent Congress meeting in the national capital, former Punjab MLA and Congress leader Lakhbir Singh Lakha discussed the partys preparations for the upcoming Punjab Assembly elections. He asserted that Congress is gearing up to enter the electoral arena with full force and is confident of forming the government in ... Read more Congress Confident of Victory in Punjab Assembly Elections, Says Leader Lakhbir Singh Lakha
Congress charts strategy to emerge as AAPs main challenger in Punjab Assembly elections
Party reviews leadership, organisation and electoral strategy as Punjab Assembly elections draw closer
Tarun Chugh Questions Bhagwant Manns Moral Authority as Punjab CM
New Delhi, June 17: BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh has responded to the Akal Takhts designation of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann as anti-Sikh. In an interview with a news agency on Wednesday, he stated that anyone labeled anti-Sikh by the highest institution of Sikhism has no moral right to remain in the position ... Read more Tarun Chugh Questions Bhagwant Manns Moral Authority as Punjab CM
Sanjeev Arora case: Court bins Punjab minister's bail plea to prevent attempts to tamper with proof
Punjab Minister Sanjeev Arora was arrested by the ED in connection with a money laundering case related to an alleged 100 crore GST fraud involving certain entities linked to him
Shahid admitted being terrified of playing Tommy Singh in 'Udta Punjab'
Shahid Kapoor initially doubted his ability to play a character battling addiction in 'Udta Punjab'. He had never consumed alcohol or substances. Director Abhishek Chaubey's confidence helped him see it as an acting challenge. Kapoor feared criticism for lack of authenticity. He ultimately found the script and character too compelling to ignore, recognizing the rarity of such roles.
NEET UG re-exam 2026: Check states providing free bus travel for candidates on June 21
Several Indian states are offering free bus travel to NEET UG candidates for the June 21 re-examination. Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Delhi, Punjab, and Uttarakhand have announced provisions for students to reach their exam centers without incurring travel costs. Candidates need to present their admit cards to avail this support, easing their journey on this crucial day.
The Supreme Court has advised judges of the Punjab and Haryana High Court not to succumb to pressure tactics allegedly employed by certain senior members of the Bar, while emphasising the need to preserve the independence and dignity of the judiciary. The Bench of Justice Surya Kant and Justice N Kotiswar Singh made the observations [] The post Supreme Court urges Punjab and Haryana High Court judges to stand firm against pressure tactics from senior bar members appeared first on India Legal .
Who is Nikhil Chaudhary? Delhi-born cricketer creates history with Australia debut
Nikhil Chaudhary made history as the first India-born male cricketer in 60 years to debut for Australia. Born in Delhi, he previously played for Punjab before moving to Australia and working various jobs during the pandemic. His impressive club performances led to his selection for the Australian T20I side.
'Udta Punjab': Kareena, Shahid reduced their fees for the film?
June 17, 2016 marked the release of the pathbreaking Hindi drama, Udta Punjab.
CEEW study favours behaviour-driven strategy to control stubble burning in Punjab
The study found that while reported crop residue burning incidents have declined since 2022, evolving burning patterns and satellite-detection limitations mean fire counts must be interpreted alongside farmer behaviour
Navjot Singh Sidhu visits Kashmir with family
Meets Abdullahs and Karan Singh Srinagar, June 16: Former Indian cricketer, television personality and politician Navjot Singh Sidhu is currently on a family vacation in Kashmir, sharing glimpses of his visit through a series of posts on social media that celebrate the valleys beauty, hospitality and political leadership. During his stay in Srinagar, Sidhu called on Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at his residence. Sharing a photograph from the meeting, Sidhu described Abdullah as the torch bearer of the great Sheikh Abdullahs legacy. The shining example of what a fearless and credible modern-day politician should be. The valley whispers peace and the mountains echo progress under his leadership, Sidhu wrote on his social media accounts. The former Punjab minister also met National Conference president and former chief minister Farooq Abdullah, thanking him for facilitating the familys trip to Kashmir. Calling Abdullah a colossus of Indian politics, Sidhu wrote, He has the courage to speak truthfully and is a genuinely secular voice of the people of Kashmir. Sidhu also met veteran statesman Karan Singh during his visit. Posting a video of the interaction, he referred to Karan Singh as the Grand Old Man of Indian Politics. Apart from political engagements, Sidhu and his family explored some of Kashmirs iconic attractions. Sharing visuals from blueberry and plum orchards overlooking the famed Dal Lake, he captioned the post: Walking the talk in the blueberry and plum orchards overlooking the Dal Lake. The former cricketer also posted photographs of his daughter, Rabiaa Sidhu, enjoying the scenic beauty of the valley. Our heart and soul, sunshine of our lives, pride of our family... my adorable princess, he wrote alongside one of the pictures. In another post featuring a family photograph taken in Srinagar, Sidhu reflected on the memorable moments spent together, writing, Good times to remember, memories to cherish and treasure. Capturing the essence of his Kashmir visit, Sidhu described the valley as paradise on earth, stating, God created Paradise and named it Kashmir - Jannat-e-Duniya. Earlier, upon arriving in the valley, Sidhu had posted, Mountains calling... family time, signalling the beginning of what appears to be a leisurely family holiday amid Kashmirs picturesque landscapes. His posts, highlighting both personal moments and meetings with prominent political leaders, have drawn attention from followers across the country, showcasing Kashmirs natural beauty and the growing influx of tourists to the region.
Delhi Police arrest seven, bust Pakistan-backed terror syndicate
Police say the network was functioning under the patronage of Pakistans ISI and was using Indians to further terror activities; police have arrested suspects from Uttar Pradesh and Punjab
NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar Meets Punjab Governor to Discuss Womens Issues
Chandigarh, June 16: Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar, Chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW), met with Punjab Governor and Administrator of Chandigarh, Gulab Chand Kataria, on Tuesday at Punjab Lok Bhawan in Chandigarh. During the meeting, both dignitaries discussed various topics related to womens welfare, empowerment, and safety. A significant focus was placed on the ... Read more NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar Meets Punjab Governor to Discuss Womens Issues
Net worth 2026: How rich is Main Vaapas Aaunga star Diljit Dosanjh?
Hyderabad: Diljit Dosanjh is not just a singer or actor anymore. He has become one of Indias biggest global entertainers. From Punjabi music stages to Bollywood films, Coachella, The Tonight Show, and Met Gala, Diljits journey has turned into a true success story. He is currently making headlines for his latest film Main Vaapas Aaunga Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
J&K Police Strike at Inter-State Drug Supply Chain, Nab Two with Weapons, Narcotics From Amritsar
As part of the ongoing Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir campaign and the 100-day drug-free target set by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Jammu and Kashmir Police, in coordination with Punjab Police, arrested two alleged drug traffickers in Amritsar and recovered an AK-47 rifle, a pistol, and narcotic substances.
Akal Takht vs Bhagwant Mann: What It Means For AAP Ahead Of 2027 Punjab Polls
With Punjab heading to the polls in 2027, this declaration by the highest temporal authority of Sikhs carries massive moral weight and threatens to fundamentally alter the electoral landscape.
Punjab Inmate Lands In More Trouble Over Reel Alleging Harassment In Jail
The case was registered on the complaint of jail Assistant Superintendent Jagwinder Kumar, police said.
New Delhi, June 16: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken significant action against an international narco-terror network linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, seizing a property in Amritsar, Punjab. This operation is part of the ongoing investigation into the Salaya drug seizure case. According to a press release from the NIA, the property located at House No. ... Read more NIA Takes Major Action Against International Narco-Terror Network Linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba in Amritsar
New Zealand's Sarpreet becomes first player of Indian origin to start a FIFA World Cup match
Born in Auckland to Punjabi parents, the 27-year-old Sarpreet made his World Cup debut in the politically-charged match and had a few attempts at the Iranian goal
False propaganda, person in video not me: Mann on Akal Takht edict against him
In his video message on Tuesday (June 16, 2026), Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann said an edict had been issued against him over the video, claiming that it featured him and that it was not AI-generated
BJP Leaders Condemn Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann as Guru-Anti Following Akal Takhts Declaration
Chandigarh, June 16: The reaction from BJP leaders has surfaced after Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann was declared Guru-Anti by the Akal Takht. BJP leader Fateh Jung Bajwa stated that Bhagwant Mann disrespected Guru Sahib. He emphasized that any Sikh who fails to honor their Gurus is deemed guilty by the community. The Akal Takht ... Read more BJP Leaders Condemn Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann as Guru-Anti Following Akal Takhts Declaration
False propaganda, person in video not me: Bhagwant Mann on Akal Takht edict against him
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has rejected an edict from Sikh clergy labeling him anti-Guru. Mann states the controversial video circulating does not feature him, attributing the accusations to political motives. He asserts his commitment to Sikhism and the Akal Takht, questioning the impartiality of religious appointments. The clergy maintains the video is authentic, leading to the pronouncement against Mann.
Punjab Police constable recruitment 2026: Candidates awaiting the next stage of Punjab Police's constable recruitment process now have a timeline to look forward to. In a fresh notice, Punjab Police said the Computer Based Test (CBT) for 3,298 vacancies across the District and Armed Cadres will begin from July 1, 2026, while admit cards will be released shortly.
Punjab govt treats over 90,000 drug victims in rehabilitation centres
Teachers, parents & communities are the first line of defence against drug addiction: Dr Balbir Singh
Rain lashes parts of Delhi-NCR, more thunderstorms likely
Delhi experienced light rain and cooler temperatures on Tuesday morning, with the mercury dipping below normal. The India Meteorological Department forecasts moderate to severe thunderstorms with strong winds across Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and western Uttar Pradesh. This weather is attributed to a cyclonic circulation over Pakistan. The capital's air quality remains in the 'moderate' category.
Youngsters in Punjab are being recruited as killers for meager sums, often as little as Rs 5,500, fueled by drug addiction and unemployment. Foreign handlers, including Pakistan's ISI, exploit vulnerable youth with false promises of money and visas, leading to low-cost, high-impact criminal operations.
The Last Colony In Existence: Pakistan Occupied J&K
CROSSROADS The terminology that has evolved over the years to describe Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) is intriguing. It demonstrates how the reluctance or the inability of the international community to uphold a perfectly legal accession of the then Princely State to India has harmed the cause of the people of J&K. Even if it suited the strategic interests of some of the powerhouses of the late-1940s, the unwise and legally unsound cognizance that was given to Pakistans forcible grab of J&K territory only encouraged the notion in several other countries in later years that taking such a route was fine. Pakistan still holds on to this territory and has given it the fancy and highly deceptive name of Azad (Free) J&K. Pakistan calls the roughly two-thirds of J&K that India governs in accordance with the provisions of the Instrument of Accession of 1947, Indian-occupied J&K. This is a rather tacky description if one were to consider that Pakistan itself invaded and occupied large parts of a State that had acceded, in accordance with all the rules that such accession required, in its geographical entirety to India. The Pakistani terminology is a strange case of the land grabber declaring the legal title holder an occupier. India, on the other hand, refers to J&K as including the entire geographical area of the undivided Princely State, which basically corresponds with the actual legal position. It calls the portions forcibly held by Pakistan as Pakistan Occupied J&K, which again is a legally sound description. India could, however, reasonably wish to wonder whether in the last three-quarters of a century it could have done more to end the occupation and correct a historical wrong. Then there is the widely used terminology in the international arena, and that is problematic to say the least. The United Nations and most of the international community use the terms Indian-administered J&K and Pakistan-administered J&K. They have done so since the early days of the J&K imbroglio. The use of two separate terms for the two illegally split parts of J&K have served to perpetuate the myth of there being more than one single J&K, than the one as it existed when the British left. The equating of the legal title holder with the aggressor and land-grabber has not only humored Pakistans legally unjustifiable position but has also allowed and emboldened it to agitate a cause that has heaped misery on the people of J&K and served only Pakistani purposes and interests. The international order, therefore, has contributed in no small measure to the grave and deteriorating situation which the people of Pakistan Occupied J&K are facing today. The present-day region of Pakistan Occupied J&K consists of parts of the Kashmir Valley and Jammu. Following the Pakistani invasion of J&K in 1947 and the 1949 ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, apart from the vast area of Gilgit Baltistan, the districts of Mirpur, Kotli and a part of Poonch came into possession of Pakistan. It is estimated that 5% of the population of Pakistan Occupied J&K speaks Kashmiri, and though Urdu is an official language, other languages commonly spoken are Pahari, Gojri and Punjabi. The communities living in this part of J&K are Gurhar, Jat, Awan, Abasi, Sudhan and other ethnic Kashmiri populations from and around the Valleys of Neelum and Leepa, respectively. The social bonds in Pakistan Occupied J&K are strongly defined by Biradari, a tribal system meaning brotherhood, which implies clan networks. This system greatly influences social dynamics, including voting behaviours, and has also been observed within the diaspora. A notable example of demographic shifts in Pakistan Occupied J&K are the consequences of the construction of the Mangla Dam in Mirpur in the 1960s. The dam was built to produce high-quality electricity for industrial purposes, but resulted in several thousand natives having to vacate their ancestral lands due to flooding. As this development coincided with the increased demand for manpower in the textile industry in the UK, mass emigration consequently occurred, and it is estimated that 70% of the diaspora in the UK can trace their origins to Mirpur. The utter lack of infrastructure and development in this region has also contributed to demographic shifts, as locals have had to migrate to Pakistan to find work or enjoy higher education. Even before the current protests in Pakistan Occupied J&K, large scale protests erupted eight years ago, in the last week of September 2018, across Muzaffarabad, the capital city of Pakistan Occupied J&K, over violation by Pakistan of the most basic of human rights of the people of the beleaguered region. Pakistan, through underground tunnels, diverted the flow of the Neelum river away from Muzaffarabad and into the pampered Pakistani province of Punjab. This was done as a part of the 969 MW Neelum-Jhelum power project, constructed near Muzaffarabad that later became fully operational. The project was conceived by the Pakistani Government as a vital part of the solution to Pakistans acute water and electricity woes. It, however, turned out to be a bane for the people of Pakistan Occupied J&K on whose territory it is located. Then, in December 2022, braving freezing temperatures to highlight their difficulties and demand solutions, thousands of people agitated in Gilgit Baltistan. Local traders and members of regional political and social organizations had observed a shutters-down strike, with markets closed and vehicles off the roads, on 28 December 2022 in different parts of Gilgit Baltistan. Protests were held in Skardu, Gilgit, Hunza and Ghizer. The protests were aimed against Pakistans misuse of the Khalsa Sarkar law for land-grabbing in the region, the imposition of unfair taxes, the removal of subsidies, and the wheat and power crisis that the region was facing. The Khalsa Sarkar law allows the federal government to claim ownership of barren or uncultivated land in Gilgit Baltistan, even if it was collectively owned for long by the local community. According to a fact-finding report of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan a year earlier, the Khalsa Sarkar system violated international human rights standards, including the UN Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples that protects indigenous peoples rights to their collective bio-cultural heritage their traditional knowledge and resources, territories, and cultural and spiritual values and customary laws as a whole. Ruthless exploitation of the people and resources of Pakistan Occupied J&K to benefit Pakistan has led to considerable resentment amongst the people of the region. This, combined with the near-total absence of tangible benefits to the region from the several hydro-electric and other Pakistani projects, has led to a feeling of being colonized. This has manifested itself in a long string of protests by the people of Pakistan Occupied J&K in recent years. All these protests over the years vividly illustrate the piquant and iniquitous situation that the people of Pakistan Occupied J&K find themselves in their lands are the engine-room of Pakistans electrification drive and their water the fuel, but they themselves are unceremoniously deprived of this electricity that is reserved for quenching Pakistans thirst for power. Reports suggest that Pakistan Occupied J&K produces an estimated 1,500 MW of electricity through hydropower, almost all of which is transmitted to Pakistan. Several other large hydro-electric projects are additionally being constructed there by Pakistan without even consulting with or obtaining the consent of the people of the region. The Pakistani Government does not pay any royalty for these projects to Pakistan Occupied J&K. And to top it all, the Pakistani Government does not deem it justified or appropriate to at least fulfil Pakistan Occupied J&Ks meagre total requirement of 400 MW of electricity. These earlier demonstrations and the recent protests in Pakistan Occupied J&K have not only targeted exploitation of the regions resources but have also been directed against the atrocities being perpetrated by the Pakistani Army and its intelligence agency, the ISI, on the people of the region. Over the past weeks, Pakistan Occupied J&K has again been engulfed in protests, fuelled principally by the disgruntlement of the locals with the exploitative and discriminatory policies for the region that have been put in place by the government of Pakistan. The current protests have their roots in May 2023, when the people of Pakistan Occupied J&K protested skyrocketing electricity bills, extensive flour smuggling and shortages in subsidised wheat supplies. Strikes and marches led by the Jammu & Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) are being held in different parts of the territory, and the situation became serious due to the heavy-handed treatment by the Pakistani government, which dispatched paramilitary troops to quell the protests. Dozens of peaceful protestors have been killed, and hundreds of others were reportedly injured after the paramilitary Pakistan Rangers opened fire on the protesting civilians. The demands of the 38-point Charter include economic subsidies, investigation of corrupt officials, social welfare and infrastructure, as well as the abolition of the 12 reserved seats, which are reserved in Pakistan Occupied J&K legislature for refugees from the other side of J&K across the Line of Control (LOC), who now live in parts of Pakistan. If the refugees live in Pakistan Occupied J&K, they are not eligible to contest for these reserved seats. However, the current protests are deep-rooted and not merely about the 12 reserved assembly seats. The protesters demands include issues like political representation, governance, resource allocation, regional autonomy, clarity about the future political trajectory of the region, apart from being linked to the wider Kashmir dispute. The fact that, despite a national media and internet black-out, protesters on the ground managed to share videos on various Social Media channels in which calls for Azadi (freedom) and independence from Pakistan were made liberally by the protestors bear witness to this notion. The overwhelming diaspora from Pakistan Occupied J&K living in the UK, Europe and North America also raised slogans in favor of independence from Pakistan in front of Pakistani Consulates and Embassies around the world. Pakistan has been flagrantly attempting to position itself in the international arena as the champion of the cause of the people of Jammu & Kashmir on both sides of the LOC. Whether it possesses the moral justification to claim such an exalted and honourable title for itself is highly questionable in view of its contemptuous disregard for the rights both human and to resources of the people of Pakistan Occupied J&K that it illegally and forcibly occupies. This is amply borne out by the long and weighty lists of grievances being articulated at the near-incessant stream of protests taking place in Pakistan Occupied J&K in recent years. It is only the heavy hand of the Pakistani Military establishment and its intelligence agencies that has thus far ensured that such protests are kept tightly under wraps, with coverage being blacked out of the local and national media. As for Pakistans credentials as a campaigner for the people across the LoC in the Indian state of Jammu & Kashmir, it cannot be denied that Pakistan does pay lip service at every opportunity that presents itself. Just as in Pakistan Occupied J&K, though, what Pakistan actually does on the ground and the impact such actions have on the people is what is really relevant. Pakistan breeds violence by sending in hordes of indoctrinated terrorists armed with modern lethal weapons into Jammu & Kashmir. Among those killed and maimed by these Pakistan-dispatched terrorists are the people of Jammu & Kashmir, of whom Pakistan lays claim to being the self-appointed guardian. This violence begets violence in the form of the response of the Indian State, as also the concomitant restrictions on rights and liberties. Pakistan, the self-styled champion of the cause of the people of all parts of Jammu & Kashmir, is in reality undoubtedly the biggest violator of their rights. However, with the recent ongoing protests in Pakistan Occupied J&K, the security apparatus in India, needs to be very vigilant. The ISI, through its terrorist proxies, will attempt to disrupt peace on this side of the LOC. Even a cursory glance at the history of the Pakistani Military Establishment and their Pakistani Punjabi mindset, it is quite certain that something sinister must be cooking in Rawalpindi. Judging by its crass track record, it is evident that under the garb of so-called national interests, the Pakistani Military Establishment and dozens of terrorist groups that have been nurtured over decades by its intelligence agency, the ISI, will continue killing, maiming, raping and displacing the people of Jammu & Kashmir on both sides of the LOC. Even if that means the death of each and every Kashmiri until there is no Kashmiri left. The sooner the people on both the sides of the LOC realize this, as they are increasingly doing, the earlier a solution to the vexed issue will come to fruition. (The Author is the Director of European Foundation for South Asian Studies (EFSAS) and can be reached at: j.qureshi@efsas.org )
SC notice to Centre, Punjab over failure to implement RTE
Though RTE and RTI were among the main planks on which AAP acquired political salience at national level, the PIL by Jagmohan Singh Raju said RTE Acts mandate for a quota of 25% for children belonging to weaker and disadvantaged sections of society in schools remained largely unimplemented in state.
Mann felicitates Punjabs UPSC 2025 achievers, hails youth potential
Why Jat Sikhs Dominate Punjabs Political Space: Its In The Numbers
Check drug smuggling to Punjab through Gujarat: MP
Akal Takht summons Punjab cabinet, sans Mann, over new anti-sacrilege law
Akal Takht declares Bhagwant Mann 'Anti-Guru', summons Cabinet
Akal Takht clergy has declared Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann a 'Guru Dokhi' and 'Khalsa Panth Virodhi'. This action follows accusations of misleading the highest Sikh temporal seat regarding a video. The clergy claims forensic reports found the video authentic. All Sikh MLAs and the Punjab Cabinet are summoned to appear before Akal Takht on June 29.
Political Tensions Rise After Akal Takhts Ruling on Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann
Chandigarh, June 16: Political tensions have escalated in Punjab following the Akal Takhts declaration of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann as guilty of religious misconduct. The Congress party has intensified its demands for Manns resignation, targeting the Aam Aadmi Party and its national convenor, Arvind Kejriwal. Senior Congress leader and MP Sukjinder Singh Randhawa took to ... Read more Political Tensions Rise After Akal Takhts Ruling on Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann
Haryana CM more focused on Punjab, says state Congress chief
The petitioner says nearly two lakh children are admitted in private schools at the entry level and at least 50,000 of them should be admitted under RTE Act; the court asks him to conduct a survey in a district to find out how many schools have not complied with the law
Sikh clergy declares Punjab CM Mann anti-Khalsa, Panth over objectionable video
A position of Chief Minister is respectable; but Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh (Mann) lied at the Akal Takht (about the video), says Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj
