Woman Climbs Tower Over Alleged Land Dispute
A woman from Agra climbed a tower on Hazratganjs Park Road near the Uttar Pradesh CMs residence, allegedly over a land dispute. The woman was evacuated by the Lucknow Fire Department and Police. Further details are awaited.
Naxalite Brijesh Ganjhu Killed in UP Encounter
A Naxalite commander carrying a combined bounty of 30 lakh was killed in an encounter with the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) and Ramnagar police in Varanasi on Sunday, September 20. The deceased was identified as Brijesh Ganjhu alias Gopal Singh Bhokta, a resident of Chatra district in Jharkhand and a commander associated with the [] The post Naxalite Brijesh Ganjhu Killed in UP Encounter appeared first on Tfipost.com .
BJP chief Nitin Nabin arrives in Meerut, to review grassroots-level preparations for 2027 UP polls
Digital Desk | Meerut, Sep 21 (IANS) Amidst preparations for the high-stakes Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has intensified its organisational activities in Western Uttar Pradesh on Monday. BJP national president Nitin Nabin reached Meerut for a two-day tour of the region, where he is expected to hold strategy meets with key state leaders, prepare electoral roadmap for the 2027 elections and also review party's poll preparedness. This marks Nabin's first visit to western Uttar Pradesh since assuming the role of National President. During the visit, the party leadership is set to focus on reviewing organisational preparedness, spanning the booth, 'Shakti Kendra' (cluster of booths), mandals, and district levels -- and engaging in direct dialogue with party workers. Upon his arrival in Meerut on Monday, a large number of BJP workers welcomed him at the Kashi Toll Plaza. Tractors and bulldozers were also deployed by party workers as part of the welcome arrangements. The reception featured enthusiastic slogan-shouting accompanied by traditional drums. Following this, Nabin visited Subharti University, where Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and State BJP President Pankaj Chaudhary were also present. A 'Yuva Samvad' (Youth Dialogue) was organised there to facilitate interaction with the university students. Significant enthusiasm was evident among the students on the campus regarding the event. Following the youth dialogue, Nabin attended a conference of Shakti Kendra convenors and Mandal presidents from western Uttar Pradesh, and the status of preparations at every level was reviewed. Meetings are also lined up with former office-bearers, Members of Parliament (MPs), and Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) from Western Uttar Pradesh. Discussions during these meetings will centre on the state of organisation, preparations for the upcoming elections, and feedback received from the grassroots level. Given the BJP's recent changes to its organisational structure and the appointment of district in-charges, this visit by the party's chief is also considered crucial for assessing the activity levels of the new organisational team. Nabin's visit is not limited to large-scale events alone, he is engaging in direct dialogue with grassroots workers and office-bearers across various organisational levels. Nabin will arrive in Saharanpur on Tuesday, the second day of his tour, where he will have a meal at the home of a BJP worker. Subsequently, he will hold meetings with former office-bearers, MPs, MLAs, and district-level organisational officials. Following this, he will visit the Shakambhari Devi Temple before returning to Delhi.
Uttar Pradesh Film Policy, 2023: Key features, subsidies, eligibility and implementation
The policy provides financial assistance and administrative facilitation to eligible producers who shoot films or digital audiovisual productions in Uttar Pradesh
BJP Intensifies Preparations for 2027 Elections in Meerut with Nitin Naveens Visit
Nitin Naveens visit to Meerut marks a significant push for BJPs organizational efforts ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh elections. BJP Intensifies Preparations for 2027 Elections in Meerut with Nitin Naveens Visit
Modi said UP to be divided into 4 states after...: Minister
SBSP chief Om Prakash Rajbhar has revived the long-standing discussion about dividing Uttar Pradesh, claiming Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him the state could be split into four parts after a caste census. Rajbhar's statement, made at a rally in Deoria, links the division to the 27% reservation issue and suggests a Rajbhar could become chief minister of a new Purvanchal state. The demand for UP's division has historical precedents, notably from former Chief Minister Mayawati.
Owaisi Promises Coalition Announcement for UP Elections by October 2
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi to announce coalition plans for Uttar Pradesh elections by October 2, focusing on Muslim political representation. Owaisi Promises Coalition Announcement for UP Elections by October 2
Queue of bulldozers to welcome BJP chief Nabin in UP
BJP National President Nitin Nabin was welcomed by a fleet of brightly painted bulldozers at a Meerut toll plaza, marking the start of his significant two-day visit to Uttar Pradesh focused on Assembly election preparations, organisational meetings, and temple visits.
Asaduddin Owaisi referred to AIMIM's similar proposal during the Bihar polls, saying his party had offered to contest six seats as part of an alliance but was instead subjected to false allegations
UP elections: AIMIM open to alliance with parties looking to prevent BJP, says Owaisi
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi expressed openness to alliances aimed at preventing a third BJP term in Uttar Pradesh. He urged voters to strengthen AIMIM's presence, stating the community needs a voice in the assembly. Owaisi mentioned his party will announce any alliance decisions after October 2. He criticized past governments for failing to address Muslim socio-economic and educational issues.
Owaisis UP Alliance Offer: AIMIM Chief Says Join Hands To Stop BJPs Third Term
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi has made an open offer to political parties ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, saying his party is willing to join hands with others over a common electoral strategy. Owaisi said AIMIM would announce its alliance decision by October 2. He also recalled the partys unsuccessful alliance outreach during the Bihar elections and criticised Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav over his remarks and political strategy.
AIMIM open to alliance with parties opposing BJP in UP: Owaisi
Kanpur: AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Sunday, September 20, said he is open to an alliance with parties looking to prevent the BJP from returning to power in Uttar Pradesh for a third consecutive term. Addressing a public meeting in Kanpurs Cantonment constituency, he urged voters to strengthen AIMIMs presence in the state, saying the 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 .
Yogi Adityanath highlights Uttar Pradeshs transformation into an economic powerhouse, with upcoming trade show boosting local entrepreneurship. Uttar Pradesh Transforms from Sick State to Economic Growth Engine, Says Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath
Abu Azmi Supports Hamid Ansaris Statement, Critiques Yogi Governments Job Claims
Abu Azmi defends Hamid Ansaris remarks on Hindu extremism and questions Yogi Adityanaths job promises in Uttar Pradesh. Abu Azmi Supports Hamid Ansaris Statement, Critiques Yogi Governments Job Claims
45 Green Gas customers complain of cyber fraud
Oral cancer: Dont ignore mouth lumps, ulcers, say docs
Civil Hospital team removes 35cm tumour; preserve motherhood chances of woman
Expired mess food sparks protest at LU
Woman takes on jackal to save son, suffers facial injuries
Mastermind fled before raid on Aliganj call centre
Vinod Rathod, Rituparna Sengupta turn Kali Bari anniv into a cultural spectacle
Gang of fake cops abducts businessman; six members held
Itaunja: Biryani vendor assaulted by 3; FIR lodged
1965 war hero Flight Lt Alfred Cooke, who downed Pak Sabre, passes away
La Martiniere Pride Dies In Delhi
Kaikeyi catalyst in Rams turning into Maryada Purushottam
Woman doc turns out to be male blackmailer
With 4.5 lakh visitors, Gomti Book Festival clocks 2.75 crore sales
Contractor gets life imprisonment for killing youth over unpaid wages
UP mandates actual mfg date on all packaged food
Relief for Raja Bhaiya as CBI court accepts closure report in DySP murder case
Mukhiya to most wanted: Brijesh Ganjhus rise and fall ends in encounter
Once described as BIMARU, U.P. transformed as countrys growth engine, says CM Yogi
Yogi Adityanath said that the State government has prioritized women in its schemes, stating, in Uttar Pradesh, 54,000 Banking Correspondent Sakhis are providing banking services in villages
Banned naxal outfit commander with 30L bounty killed in encounter with UP ATS
UP election: Why politicians, public and priests share a unique bond with faith
A recent hostage situation in Uttar Pradesh involving a priest, who was taken captive post-ceremony, underscores the extraordinary demands placed upon those who mediate between the divine and the faithful. The kidnappers were after a ransom to recoup ritual costs, exposing the complex relationship between faith and finance. Meanwhile, political figures continue to harness religious narratives as a strategy for winning elections.
151 Ambedkar statues vandalised in UP under BJP govt, only 14 arrests so far: Akhilesh
LUCKNOW: Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Sunday claimed that 151 statues of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar were damaged across 72 districts of Uttar Pradesh during the BJP rule, but only 14 arrests have been made so far. He alleged that the vandalism was done deliberately because the BJP wanted to change the Constitution but failed []
DMK is reaching out to regional parties nationally to form a common platform. Kanimozhi has spoken with leaders from TMC, Shiv Sena, and NCP(SP). In Uttar Pradesh, AIMIM and Azad Samaj Party are discussing a joint front. Swami Prasad Maurya and Pallavi Patel are also being considered for this alliance. An announcement regarding the Uttar Pradesh coalition is expected soon.
HC upholds Sonbhadra land action against demographic change bid
SC/ST court summons SDM over assault on devotee at Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Students urged to think, learn beyond textbooks
Dental practitioners discuss latest treatment techniques
Sex racket busted in hotel, 7 held
NIA arrests 2 more in Saharanpur fake currency racket
RPFs 42nd Raising Day celebrated with Run for Unity, cleanliness drive
Kids take part in NER, BLWs all India painting contest
Modern waste transfer station to come up in Faridpur
Advocate arrested for looting client of Rs 41 lakh
CM Yogi condoles demise of Kalraj Mishras wife
25 cars, 25 years: Patna-Kashi rally marks Modis public service journey
Bangkok-Delhi flight diverted to Lucknow after passenger reports chest pain
3 children drown in rainwater-filled pit in UP
50,000 were displaced: Owaisi targets Akhilesh over Muzaffarnagar violence
2 detained with illegal firearms at toll plaza
KMC irregularities probe: 2 JEs suspended, FIRs against 5 contractors
A walk to remember: How a widows 18-km journey to DMs office changed her life
Two kids missing after being swept away while bathing in river
Woman accuses constable of taking bribe to act on complaint; probe ordered
Five arrested for robbing Rs 4.31 lakh from goat trader
Rain cools city by a notch, but 39C feels like keeps sultry spell alive
One dead, another critical as bike hits flyover divider
Car falls from bridge, two injured
UP govt transfers 10 senior IAS officers; health, energy departments see key changes
Two children die after drowning in factory pit in Barabanki, third missing
Digital Desk | Two children die after drowning in factory pit in Barabanki, third missing Barabanki, Sep 20 (IANS) Two children died after drowning in a deep pit filled with rainwater at an under-construction factory in Barabanki district of Uttar Pradesh on Sunday evening, while a third child remained missing despite an extensive search operation, police said. The incident occurred outside Baina village, under the jurisdiction of Kursi police station, when three children went to bathe in a water-filled pit dug inside the factory premises for soil excavation. According to preliminary information, the pit had filled with rainwater following recent rainfall. The three children, identified as Deva (13), Sumit (10) and Divyansh (15), had reportedly gone to the site along with other children during the evening. While bathing, the three children ventured into deeper water and began drowning. The children accompanying them raised an alarm, following which local villagers rushed to the spot and launched a rescue effort. Villagers managed to pull Deva and Sumit out of the water and immediately took them to a private hospital for medical treatment. However, doctors examined both children and declared them dead. Meanwhile, Divyansh could not be located despite prolonged efforts by villagers to search the pit. Following information about the incident, personnel from the Kursi police station reached the spot along with local divers. As darkness made the rescue operation more difficult, arrangements were made for additional lighting to facilitate the search for the missing child. Police and residents continued efforts to locate Divyansh, while further details about the circumstances surrounding the incident were awaited. The tragic incident has raised concerns over the safety of deep excavation pits at construction sites, particularly during the monsoon season when such pits can become filled with rainwater and pose a serious risk to children, said residents. Authorities are expected to ascertain the circumstances that led to the children entering the factory premises and investigate the safety arrangements at the site. Sent from Outlook for Android
Anil Rajbhar Criticizes Samajwadi Party Over Reservation Issues in Varanasi
Uttar Pradesh Minister Anil Rajbhar accuses the Samajwadi Party of neglecting reservation rights for backward communities. Anil Rajbhar Criticizes Samajwadi Party Over Reservation Issues in Varanasi
Traffic police crack whip on irregular parking at markets
NGO celebrates decade of empowering slum youth
56 kids participate in painting competition
16 criminals on police radar in Fatehpur
52-day Magh Mela 2027 from Jan 14, Kalpwas to begin on Jan 22
Digital libraries in gram panchayats to help competitive exam aspirants in rural areas
Mahakaushal Distillery to start ethanol production by Nov
NCR to raise height of 55 platforms at 39 stations for safe boarding
602 flats to come up on Atiqs land; bookings likely around Diwali
151 Ambedkar statues vandalised in UP under BJP govt: Akhilesh
Lucknow: Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Sunday, September 20, claimed that 151 statues of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar were damaged across 72 districts of Uttar Pradesh during the BJP rule, but only 14 arrests have been made so far. He alleged that the vandalism was done deliberately because the BJP wanted to change the Constitution 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 .
Paise Ki Garmi: Akhilesh Yadav Expels SP Leaders From Meet After They Clash In His Presence
A heated argument broke out between two Samajwadi Party leaders during a meeting attended by party chief Akhilesh Yadav in Lucknow. According to reports, SP leader Manjeet Yadav and former Etah district panchayat chairman Jugendra Singh Yadav exchanged words and allegedly hurled abuses at each other. Akhilesh Yadav reportedly asked the two leaders to leave the meeting after witnessing the commotion. The meeting, attended by around 250 senior leaders and office-bearers from Etah and Kasganj, was held to review organisational preparedness ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections. Following the incident, the SP dissolved its district committees in both Etah and Kasganj, along with their frontal organisations. Akhilesh later commented on the incident, saying, These things happen, its okay, and urged party workers to work together.
All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) national president Asaduddin Owaisi on Sunday reiterated that he would want to contest next year's assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh in an alliance, but targeted the Samajwadi Party (SP) for calling his party 'B team' of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Taking a swipe at Hamid Ansari over his 'Hindu communalism' remark, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said on Sunday that the former Vice President has failed to maintain the dignity of his position, describing his statement as 'unfortunate' and 'truly frightening'.
Uttar Pradesh Election 2027: AIMIM chief Owaisi seeks Opposition unity to stop BJPs third term
Yogi Adityanath Hits Back At Hamid Ansari Over 'Hindu Communalism' Remarks
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has criticised his remarks, calling them unfortunate and accusing him of tarnishing India's image.
Owaisi Calls for Opposition Unity to Halt BJPs Third Term in Uttar Pradesh
AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi urges opposition parties to unite against BJP ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh elections. Owaisi Calls for Opposition Unity to Halt BJPs Third Term in Uttar Pradesh
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi stated his party is ready to work with others to prevent a third BJP term. He invited like-minded parties for discussions, emphasizing no single party can stop the BJP alone. Owaisi highlighted AIMIM's strengthened organization and grassroots leadership in Uttar Pradesh. He asserted the upcoming assembly elections will present different challenges and outcomes. The party is actively visiting constituencies to understand and address public issues.
Uttar Pradeshs Cultural Richness Celebrated in Iceland with Focus on Investment and Tourism
The Indian Embassy in Iceland showcased Uttar Pradeshs culture, tourism, and investment opportunities during Uttar Pradesh Day celebrations. Uttar Pradeshs Cultural Richness Celebrated in Iceland with Focus on Investment and Tourism
Vadnagar-Varanasi Seva Yatra: 500 volunteers on motorcycles clean schools, ponds along the route
Digital Desk | Vadnagar/Varanasi, Sep 20 (IANS) More than 500 young volunteers taking part in the Seva Yatra on motorcycles from Vadnagar to Varanasi from September 17 to October 7 are offering manual service and cleaning campuses of schools, hospitals, orphanages and old-age homes along the route. The 22-day journey, aiming to cover 35,500 kilometres across 20 teams, is part of a campaign organised around Prime Minister Narendra Modis birthday and his 25 years of public service. Driven by the goal of offering service to communities, the 500 youths are travelling from village to village and undertaking activities including cleanliness drives, cow service, care of older people and sharing awareness about government schemes, said a statement issued by the BJP. They are travelling through towns, districts, talukas and villages, taking the spirit of Seva right to the grassroots, said the statement. The Seva Yatris are not just passing through communities but stopping, meeting people and committing Seva in activities that respond to local needs - from cleanliness drives at ponds, temples, schools, parks, hospitals and other public areas to beneficiary interactions, youth dialogues, Gram Sabha samvad and Gau Seva to tree plantation under Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam. At PM SHRI Schools, the Yatris are cleaning campuses, interacting with students and distributing books and stationery and at hospitals, orphanages and old-age homes, they are extending their support to those who need it the most, the statement said. Kits are being distributed to widows, ASHA workers are being honoured, and communities are coming together for different welfare activities, it said. The Yatra is equally about contact and dialogue. Yuva Samvads, Gram Sabha interactions, Mahila Samvads and beneficiary interactions are creating opportunities to meet people directly and understand the aspirations and provide awareness at the grassroots, the statement said. Organ donation pledges are also being encouraged by the volunteers to promote the spirit of giving, while tributes to martyrs and freedom fighters are connecting communities with the nation's history and its heroes, it said. The Yatra is bringing together several dimensions of public engagement, including Seva, Sampark, youth participation, social welfare, cultural connect and community mobilisation and carrying them from one grassroots location to another, it said. On the occasion of PM Modis birthday on September 17, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh flagged off a 'Seva Sankalp Yatra' from Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) to Vadnagar in Gujarat. He said the 'Seva Sankalp Yatra' is not merely a means of traversing the geographical distance between two places; rather, it is a sacred spiritual and social journey connecting the birthplace of PM Modi with his 'karmabhoomi', Kashi. The Yatra is being organised under the 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan' as a means of serving the people, said the Defence Minister, adding that during the journey the waters of Varanasi and Vadnagar will be exchanged and used for the Jalabhishek of Hatkeshwar Mahadev and Baba Vishwanath. He said the objective of this journey is to connect public sentiments, reach the last person through service activities, and highlight PM Modi's 25 years of dedicated service to the people.
UP: BJP chief Nitin Nabin to begin two-day poll strategy visit from tomorrow
Digital Desk | Lucknow, Sep 20 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Partys National President Nitin Nabin will lead organisational meetings, public programmes and conferences related to election preparations in Uttar Pradesh during his two-day visit starting on Monday. During his visit, Nabin will also visit historical sites and prominent temples to seek blessings, reflecting the BJPs continued commitment to the values of service, dedication and faith. On the first day of his visit on Monday, the BJP National President will arrive in Krantidhara, Meerut and pay floral tributes to the immortal martyrs at the Indian National Army Martyrs Memorial and Park, a party statement. Thereafter, he will address a Yuva Sammelan organised at the Mangalya Auditorium of Swami Vivekanand Subharti University and call upon the youth to harness their strength. Later in the afternoon, he will address Shakti Kendra Sammelan (Western Region) to be held on the same campus. Nabin will also hold special meetings with former office-bearers, Members of Parliament, legislators and dedicated karyakartas of the Western Region to give final and precise direction to election preparations. On the second day of his visit on Tuesday, Nabin will hold an interaction meeting in Meerut in the morning with eminent personalities and distinguished citizens of the region. He will visit the historic Augharnath Temple in Meerut to offer prayers and seek the blessings of Mahadev. Later, he will travel to Saharanpur and visit a karyakartas home for a meal, conveying a strong message of the BJPs great tradition of Karyakarta First, warmth and its unbreakable connection with the grassroots. In Saharanpur, he will later interact with former Members of Parliament and legislators of the Western Region. Immediately thereafter, he will hold a high-level meeting with state and regional office-bearers, district presidents, district in-charges and district general secretaries to deliberate extensively on the election strategy. Nabin will conclude his visit by offering prayers to Maa Bhagwati at the renowned Siddhapeeth Shri Shakambhari Devi Temple, the statement said.
Indian Embassy in Iceland celebrates UP Diwas, highlights cultural heritage and investment potential
Digital Desk | Reykjavik, Sep 20 (IANS) The Indian Embassy in Iceland organised an event to celebrate Uttar Pradesh Diwas, highlighting the state's rich cultural heritage, tourism, trade and investment potential. Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana and Legislative Council Chairman Kunwar Manvendra Singh attended the event, according to the Indian Embassy in Iceland's statement on Sunday. Sharing details regarding the event on X, the Indian Embassy in Iceland wrote, Ambassador R Ravindra highlighted the trade and investment opportunities in Uttar Pradesh. Icelandic photographer and writer Mr Einar Falur Inglfsson shared insights from his extensive travels across Varanasi and other parts of the State. The programme featured Kirtan by members of ISKCON, vibrant cultural performances by the Indian community, and a showcase of ODOP products from various districts of Uttar Pradesh. Videos highlighting the States tourism, trade and investment potential were also screened. A vibrant celebration showcasing the rich heritage and opportunities of Uttar Pradesh in Iceland. On Saturday, the Indian Embassy in Iceland organised the 'Viksit Bharat Run 2026', bringing together members of the Indian community in Iceland. Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana and Legislative Council Chairman Kunwar Manvendra Singh inaugurated the run. The Viksit Bharat Run seeks to promote fitness, unity, community spirit and citizen participation in India's journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047. It also heralded the spirit of Seva Pakhwada, which continues through Gandhi Jayanti on 2 October, highlighting service to society, collective responsibility and the contribution of every citizen towards nation-building, the Embassy said on X. The two leaders also planted a sapling at the Embassy premises under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' initiative. Honble Speaker, Legislative Assembly, Uttar Pradesh, Shri Satish Mahana and Honble Chairman, Legislative Council, Uttar Pradesh, Shri Kunwar Manvendra Singh planted a sapling at the Embassy premises in Reykjavik, Iceland under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' initiative, the Embassy stated on X. The initiative also set a purposeful tone for Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 at the Embassy, in sync with the nationwide campaign theme 'Swachhata Mein Sahbhag, Swachh Bharat, Viksit Bharat' and highlighted the importance of collective action, compassion and care for our environment, it added. The Embassy launched the 'Swachhata Hi Seva 2026' campaign on Thursday. The campaign runs from September 17 to October 2. Ambassador R Ravindra launched the campaign at the Embassy of India, Reykjavik, today, administering the Swachhata Pledge to Embassy officials. As part of the campaign, the Ambassador led the officials in Shramdaan for a cleanliness drive, the Indian Embassy in Iceland posted on X.
Yogi Adityanath Says Riots Simply Do Not Happen In UP
In Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath said riots simply do not happen and added that mock drills are conducted so people do not forget what riots used to be like.
BJPs Nasha Mukt Punjab Yatra movement for social reform, says Meghwal in Fazilka
Digital Desk | Fazilka (Punjab), Sep 20 (IANS) Union Law Minister Arjun Meghwal on Sunday described the BJPs Nasha Mukt Punjab Yatra as a movement for social reform. He said the objective of the campaign was to protect generations of Punjabis from drugs and take Punjab forward on the path of becoming a developed state. Meghwal was addressing a public gathering before flagging off the third Nasha Mukt Punjab Yatra from Fazilkas Old Vegetable Market. Before addressing the gathering, he visited the Asafwala Shaheedi Memorial, where he paid floral tributes to the soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice for the nation. He was accompanied by BJP national General Secretary and Punjab BJP in-charge Satish Poonia, state president Kewal Singh Dhillon, former state president Sunil Jakhar and former minister Surjit Kumar Jiani. Addressing the gathering before flagging off the third Nasha Mukt Punjab Yatra, the Union Minister said some people were viewing the yatra through a political lens. However, he said it was not a political campaign but an initiative for social reform. Meghwal said the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Narendra Modi government not only run government programmes but also undertake initiatives aimed at social reform. He cited PM Modis campaigns such as Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao and Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam as examples of such social initiatives. Speaking about the harmful effects of drugs, the Union Law Minister referred to the Bani of Guru Amar Das from the Sri Guru Granth Sahib and said that people should stay away from anything whose consumption affects the human mind, intellect and sense of discretion. He also referred to the importance of Naam Simran in the Bani of Guru Nanak Dev, saying that one can truly engage in Naam Simran only when ones sense of discretion remains intact. The minister said this is why people were urged to stay away from intoxicants. During his address, Meghwal also sang a Shabad of Guru Nanak Dev, drawing an appreciative response from the gathering. He said the message of creating awareness against drugs could also be found in the Bani of the Sikh Gurus, Bhagat Kabir Das and Guru Ravidas. The minister said people could be motivated to protect themselves from the harmful effects of drugs only by linking the campaign for a drug-free Punjab with social and spiritual awareness. He said this was the objective of the BJPs Nasha Mukt Punjab Yatra. Speaking on the occasion, state BJP President Dhillon said, Those who had spread the scourge of drugs have been rattled by the BJPs Nasha Mukt Punjab Yatra. The yatra has put the Chief Minister on the back foot. Referring to the recent Mohanjeet Sheron and Gulzar Singh incidents in Sangrur, Dhillon alleged that the government was suppressing voices speaking out against drugs. He said people had become so frustrated that residents in Faridkot were putting up house for sale boards outside their homes. He said that if the BJP could eliminate gangsterism in Uttar Pradesh, Naxalism in Jharkhand and violence in Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370, then why could it not eliminate drugs from Punjab? Dhillon said the BJP had a track record of delivering on its promises and doing what it said it would do. Former state BJP President Jakhar said that while deaths had so far been occurring due to drug abuse, more people were now dying for raising their voice against drugs. He said some people were being killed by drug smugglers, while others were being forced to commit suicide on the pretext of having raised questions. Launching a sharp attack on AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal, Jakhar said 79,000 arrests that had been made were not a sign of Kejriwals bravery, but evidence of the extent to which the younger generation had been pushed into the drug crisis.

