Punjab all set for mock drills in 20 towns as nation ramps up defence preparedness

CHANDIGARH: Amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, civil defence mock drills will be held at 20 places in Punjab, besides several locations in Haryana and the Union Territory of Chandigarh on Wednesday, as per instructions issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). In Punjab, the mock drills will be held in Amritsar, Bathinda, Ferozepur, Gurdaspur, Batala, Hoshiarpur, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Adampur, Halwara, Patiala, Pathankot, Barnala, Mohali, Faridkot, Kotkapura, Rupnagar, Bhakra Nangal, Sangrur and Abohar. Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said, The civil defence teams and Punjab Police, along with the Home Ministry, will conduct mock drills tomorrow, adding that the state government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, is closely monitoring the exercise to ensure the safety of citizens. Preparations are almost complete for conducting the mock drills. The objective of the drills is to create awareness among the public and take necessary precautions in the event of any attack, he added. Cheema said the directions of the Home Ministry will be followed during the mock drills. Sources said that public announcements will be made before the drills. As per the guidelines issued by MHA, the drills will include activation of air raid warning sirens, training of civilians, students and others in civil defence procedures to protect themselves in the event of a hostile attack, implementation of crash blackout measures, early camouflaging of vital plants and installations, updating and rehearsing of evacuation plans. The ministry had asked several states to conduct mock drills on May 7 for effective civil defence. In the meeting today, the issue of sirens was raised as for many years these have not been tested thus many might be dysfunctional for that we need to first check the working of all the civil and defence siren systems and these will be tested. Thus people should not panic, said a senior functionary who took part in the meeting. MHA conducts key review meeting ahead of massive civil defence mock drill, identifies 19 'top priority' sites Meanwhile, Ferozepur Deputy Commissioner Deepshikha Sharma said as part of the mock drill preparations, six civil defence sirens will be sounded in the city and the Ferozepur Cantonment area from 7 to 7.15 pm on Tuesday. These sirens will be sounded for the preparation of the May 7 mock drill, she said, adding that there was no need to worry. A senior police official in Ferozepur said a blackout rehearsal will be carried out from 9 to 9.30 pm on Wednesday and police patrolling teams will be deployed. In Haryana too, mock drills will be conducted at many places, including Ambala, Faridabad, Gurugram, Hisar, Panchkula, Panipat and Rohtak. In a letter to the chief secretaries of all states and administrators of Union Territories, the MHA stated that the measures to be taken during the mock drills include the operationalisation of air-raid warning sirens, training civilians on civil-defence aspects to protect themselves in the event of a hostile attack and cleaning bunkers and trenches. The other measures are provisions for crash-blackout measures, early camouflaging of vital plants and installations and updating and rehearsing evacuation plans. The mock drills also include the operationalisation of hotline and radio-communication links with the Indian Air Force (IAF), testing the functionality of control rooms and shadow control rooms. It said the active participation of the district controllers, various district authorities, civil-defence wardens, volunteers, home guards (active and reservists volunteers), National Cadet Corps (NCC), National Service Scheme (NSS), Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS), college and school students is envisaged in the exercise. Civil defence volunteers rehearse emergency response in Lucknow ahead of nationwide mock drill

Punjab cops stop farmers from reaching police station for day-long dharna, Dallewal warns of fresh protest

CHANDIGARH: The Punjab police continued their statewide crackdown against protesting farmers associated with farmer unions Sanyukt Kisan Morcha (non-political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) who were prevented from reaching Shambhu police station on the border with Haryana for a day-long dharna. A strict warning was issued by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann against any sort of road or rail blockade apart from plans for protests or strikes causing inconvenience to the general public. All roads leading to Shambhu police station were heavily barricaded. At certain places, loaded vehicles were put on the roads to disrupt the convoys of protesters. On National Highway 44 near the Shambhu border, police personnel were checking every vehicle and allowing passage only to those headed toward Delhi or Haryana, leading to traffic jams. Senior Superintendent of Police of Patiala Varun Sharma said, No one will be allowed to hold protests and harass the people. We will not allow farmers to disrupt law and order at any cost. Many farmer leaders, including Jagjit Singh Dallewal, were detained in various districts on Monday ahead of the protest. Irked that many farmers leaders have been placed under house arrest, Dallewal, in a video message uploaded on Tuesday, said the farmer unions only wanted to raise their voice against the police action on March 19-20 but the AAP-led Punjab government has turned the state into a garrison and started a crackdown against farmers. Many of the leaders detained yesterday have been sent to jails including our leader Kaka Singh Kotda. CM Mann should keep in mind that such state repression may push them towards launching another protest. The protests can never be silenced through coercion as more repression faces more resistance and rising voices do not tolerate dictatorship, he said. Sarwan Singh Pandher, convener of the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, said Punjab appears to have turned into a police state. Peaceful protests against the state government are not allowed, he said. Farmers, mainly activists of the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh committee, were stopped at Ajitwal town in Moga and a few of them were even taken into custody, claimed farmer leaders. Farmers from Ambala in Haryana were also not allowed to reach Shambhu, being stopped at Gurdwara Manji Sahib. Punjab police reached the gurudwara in plain clothes and studied their movements, claimed a Haryana farmer leader. The dharna is in response to the police crackdown on March 19, when farmer leaders were detained after a meeting with Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan in Chandigarh. The Shambhu and Khanauri protest sites were cleared by the state police on the same day. The farmers are demanding compensation for the items that had allegedly been stolen or gone missing during the police crackdown at Shambhu, which they claimed were later traced to individuals linked to the Aam Aadmi Party and police personnel.

Exceeding air and noise levels in Ayyankuzhi near Ambalamugal, PCB informs NGT

Water crisis: Punjabs single engine heavy on BJP's double engine government, says Deepender Hooda

Congress leaders Uday Bhan and Deepender Singh Hooda led rallies in Ambala and Kurukshetra as part of the Sanvidhan Bachao campaign, addressing concerns over constitutional values and the BJP government's alleged failures in Haryana. Hooda criticized the state's inaction on the SYL canal issue and water rights, while Bhan warned of an undeclared emergency and the undermining of the Constitution.

Kanniyakumari, Nellai and Tenkasi get rain respite from heat

TENKASI/TIRUNELVELI/KANNIYAKUMARI: The districts of Kanniyakumari, Tenkasi and Tirunelveli got respite from the heat after receiving rainfall on Friday. During a 24-hour period that ended on Saturday morning, Kuzhithurai in Kanniyakumari recorded 51.2 mm of rainfall, while Kolipurvilai recorded 18.4 mm, Perunchani dam 16.4 mm and Mambalathuraiyaru, 16 mm. Aanaikedanku and Puthen dam recorded more than 10 mm rainfall. Meanwhile, Karuppanathi in Tenkasi district received 40 mm rainfall while Gadana dam received 35 mm rain. Sankarankovil in Tenkasi district received 28 mm rainfall. Temple workers were seen pumping out water for the second day on Saturday at the Sankaranarayana Swamy temple in Sankarankovil. While Tirunelveli received only 2.4 mm rainfall, Cheranmahadevi recorded 10 mm rain during the period. Places like Manjolai received 8 mm rainfall, while Kakkachi recorded 10 mm and Nalumikku (8 mm).

Aanavandi Ahoy! There's now a beeline for KSRTC's budget trips

The winding roads through Gavi forests opened up another world for Jayasree B, a retired government official who always kept the fire in her to travel. She has been on regular tours since her retirement, her last one being to Kashmir, just days before the Pahalgam attack. Jayasrees travels within the State are backed by the Budget Tourism Cell (BTC) of KSRTC, which lets her explore the swathes of the state economically and brings her the camaraderie of like-minded travel bugs. It was the film Ordinary that made me long to go to Gavi. When the BTC trip came up, I jumped for it. There are so many places unexplored in this state, and the BTC trips lead us there, she says. Thiruvananthapuram has many such travellers retired, single, or just bitten by the travel bug. They go through less-travelled roads and unexplored trails, sometimes with modest means. As they plan these journeys, they ask: when nature doesnt differentiate, why should travel be only for those who can splurge? Snaps from a recent KSRTC budget trip Aiding this wanderlust is BTC, launched in 2020 and operational since 2021, which now offers 600 services from 93 depots across Kerala, excluding private trips booked on demand. From the 20 depots in Thiruvananthapuram, about 300 services run during weekends and holidays, and 250 during vacations. This May alone, over 200 trips have been charted, compared to less than 150 in the same period last year, excluding private and chartered trips. The income and the BTC trips have shot up by at least 50% since last fiscal. The service is now available from all 93 depots, compared to 45 last year. In Thiruvananthapuram too, its now from all 20 depots instead of just two or three, says V A Jayakumar, BTC Thiruvananthapuram (north) coordinator. Most weekend and holiday trips are one-day or two-day journeys. These have many takers, especially retirees and pilgrims. A popular option is the evening ride through Thiruvananthapuram on a roofless double-decker bus titled Nagarakazhchakal. A similar service called Royal View was recently launched in Munnar, with a covered double-decker bus offering panoramic views of the misty hills. We also have special tours during pilgrim seasons like Pampa Darshanam, Nalambalam Darshanam (July-August), the Panchapandava trail during Onam, the Aranmula Vallasadya, Thiru Airanikulam temple trail during Thiruvathira (December), and backwater trips that include houseboat stays. Trips to Wayanad, Munnar, and Nelliampathy are also very popular, says Anu Mohanan, BTC coordinator at the Pappanamcode depot. Snaps from a recent KSRTC budget trip Snaps from a recent KSRTC budget trip This summer, demand is high as people use the school break for short getaways. Enquiries are pouring in for Munnar and Idukki. In April alone, at least eight trips were conducted, ferrying over 240 people. One-day trips were also popular, such as the Neyyar-Ponmudi trip that carried 30 people to the serene hill station. For long-distance trips, BTC fare includes food and lodging. Stay is arranged in neat hotels tied up with the package, houseboats in places like Alappuzha, or in improved KSRTC waiting facilities, says Anu. The BTC staff accompany us, as they did on our Kollam boat trip last week. Contrary to the belief that KSRTC staff are indifferent, BTC coordinators, drivers, and conductors are very cordial and take care of our every need. We become like a family. I would recommend it even for solo travellers, says Jayasree. She recalls a recent trip where a grieving woman, urged to join, found it the perfect distraction. She was happy at the end; I think shell join us again for the Ponmudi trip this weekend, she adds. For the upcoming Mangaladevi trip on May 11, buses will go till the Kumily depot. Passengers can freshen up there before proceeding by jeep to the hill shrine, nestled in the Western Ghats. The shrine opens just once a year for the Pournami pooja (on May 12 this year), and the trip is already heavily booked. The BTC plan is often to return the same day, eliminating the need for an overnight stay. The demand for this trip has doubled compared to last year, says Anu Mohanan. Snaps from a recent KSRTC budget trip For Shakuntakumari K, a retired school teacher, BTC trips are a great way to connect with friends, family, and fellow travellers. Ive gone on several trips, some to pilgrim spots and last week to Ashtamudi lake. We have a WhatsApp group where monthly schedules are posted. Buses can be uncomfortable sometimes, but theyre generally well-managed and 10% cheaper than other options. For retirees like us, its a great way to travel, she says. She adds that shes discovered places she never knew existed through BTC trips. Like Illikalkallu that was a revelation for me. BTCs tours to places like Anchurli, Ramakkalmedu, Mamalakandam, Gavi, Munnar, Nelliampathy, Wagamon, Athirappilly, Vazhachal, Kannur, and others, including seasonal packages, are favourites among travel lovers. Some require Forest Department permissions. We also conduct off-beat trips, like our monsoon rain tour last year to places where the rains are most enchanting, says Jayakumar. Each depot creates its own chart based on local demand. People-specific plans help travellers plan better. Working professionals use them for weekend breaks or short trips. Monthly charts based on season and area demand are really helpful, says Ambareesh V S, an entrepreneur who often travels with his family, including his school-going daughter. The only negative pointed out is the occasional poor condition of buses. Most often, they are fine. But sometimes we get buses without AC, faulty music systems, or uncomfortable seating. If BTC can assign well-maintained buses exclusively for this even at a slightly higher cost Im sure it would attract more people, say regulars. To learn more, visit KSRTC website or contact individual depots.

Tragic roof collapse in Ambala claims lives of couple and young son

Three of family killed in roof collapse in Haryana's Ambala

AMBALA: A couple and their five-year-old son were killed when the roof of their house collapsed here on Wednesday, police said. The couple's daughter, who was playing outside the house, survived. The incident took place in Moti Nagar at around 3.30 pm. According to the police, the incident took place when Javed Ali alias Raju (35) was having lunch with his wife Anu (32) and son Noor Ahmed (5) at home. The roof of the house was made of wooden beams and a heavy iron beam was placed in the middle. It collapsed and trapped the three victims under the debris. Hearing a loud explosion, people in the vicinity gathered and informed the police. After the incident, fire tenders, an ambulance and a police team reached the spot. All three injured were pulled out and rushed to a hospital where the doctors declared them dead, police said. The police have informed their relatives who live in Karnal. Javed used to sell balloons and toys and had been living in Ambala city for the last several years.

Chaos erupts at Kannur Corpn. meet over Payyambalam crematorium issue

Residents rally to protect crumbling Vazhi Ambalam in Kollams Kareepra

KOLLAM: Once a vital rest stop for weary travellers under the Travancore dynasty, the more-than-a-century-old Vazhi Ambalam, a traditional roadside waiting shed, still stands in Kollam, albeit in a crumbling state. Alongside it lies a Chumaduthangi (load-relieving stone), a structure used by travellers to keep the heavy load they carried on their heads. An adjacent travellers well, a crucial source of water in its time, is already in ruins. Located in the quiet village of Kareepra in Kollam, the Vazhi Ambalam is one of the few surviving examples of its kind. Locals, who still use it for shelter, are urging the authorities to restore it, saying it connects them to their roots and to a forgotten culture of communal travel. With the adjoining well lost to time, the decaying structure now stands as a symbol of neglected heritage - and a communitys fight to preserve it. According to Suresh Madhav, a local historian and teacher at NSS College, Pandalam, the structure and its associated components might have been built during the reign of Travancore king Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma. Such structures were usually built by local landlords for travellers. Those days, everyone from royalty and priests to workers and traders travelled long distances. And these sheds served as essential resting places, he said, adding that residents would often gather at the Vazhi Ambalam during leisure time. Kings even sent spies and police officials to these spots to gather intelligence. These are were not just shelters, they hold countless folklores and secrets of history. If we lose them, we lose an irreplaceable part of our past, he said. It is said that during summer, various landlord families sponsored the distribution of sambharam (buttermilk) to travellers, who took shelter at the Vazhi Ambalam. Once thatched with coconut leaves, the shelter was later repaired with roof tiles, thanks to the residents. We have worked hard to keep it standing with the help of the community. The people and local authorities have promised to support its upkeep. It gives us hope for the future, says Biju Madhusoodanan Pillai, a social activist and local resident. Residents also noted that the Vazhi Ambalam was built on the land belonging to the Kaduthanathu Valiya Madom family. Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma and his ministers used our ancestral home as a hideout when facing opposition from the Ettuveetil Pillamar, the powerful Nair nobles who once challenged Travancores rulers, said Vasudevan Potty, a family member and resident. Before reaching our house, the king and his ministers reportedly rested at this Vazhi Ambalam for a day. My forefathers recounted that although we were not a wealthy family, we sheltered and fed them. Even after all these decades, the structure remains, but its future is uncertain. Many today are unaware of its historical significance, he said. P K Anil Kumar, the ward member of Kareepra panchayat, said the local body currently has no plans to allocate funds for the structures maintenance. It is an important structure for us, and people are showing great enthusiasm for its preservation. But at present, the panchayat has no plans to allocate funds for maintenance. In the future, if necessary, I will do the needful, he said.

Memorial project to relive legacy of Malabars forgotten warrior

KANNUR: For centuries, the winds sweeping Payyambalam Beach carried with them the memories of a fearless warrior who once stood up against the might of the Portuguese. Now, the echoes of history are about to find a voice. Chirakkal Kelu better known as Murikkancheri Kelu Nayanar who inspired Santosh Sivans movie Urumi, is set to be immortalised with a monument at the very spot where he was buried. The memorial will come up next to the long-forgotten tomb of the 16th-century general, buried beneath layers of time, near the Payyambalam police outpost. The archaeological department will take up restoration of the tomb as part of the project. The state government has earmarked Rs 75 lakh for the memorial, which will come up on five cents of land allocated by the revenue department. This is the brain child of Minister for Ports, Museums, Archaeology and Archives Ramachandran Kadannappalli. Kelu is a hero who lives on in the minds of the people of northern Kerala. But, he is largely confined to folk songs. Only a few historical books, compiled after examining records from his time, offer a glimpse into his life, said Kadannappalli, shedding light on the warriors elusive past. Linked closely to the Kolathiri and Arakkal dynasties, Kelus story is one pieced together from fragmented ballads and oral legends. With no surviving images or sculptures to guide them, the memorial will be a symbolic tribute -- a testament to his courage rather than a physical likeness. The memorial will be built where Kelus body is believed to have been buried. It will comprise entirely of laterite stone, Kadannappalli said. At its heart, a sword will stand as a symbol of the hero, who, according to the ballads, was shot dead and buried in a seven-foot-long pit alongside his weapon. Adding a touch of immersive storytelling, a sound system will be discreetly installed so that folk songs about Kelu rise into the air at the touch of a specific point within the structure. The design itself will echo the style of ancient Kolathiri and Arakkal palaces, with the final blueprint shaped by a careful study of historical documents and surviving structures from the era. Kelus tomb near Payyambalam To safeguard the site, a fence will encircle the monument. The entrance gate will be fashioned in the style of old fort doors from Kannur and Malabar, and if any clan symbols associated with the Kolathiri dynasty are found available, they too will be etched above the gateway. The grounds will feature plaques inscribed in both English and Malayalam, recounting the life and legacy of Kelu Nayanar. Plans are also underway to include a miniature version of Madayi Fort -- the historic fortress he is believed to have built -- within the premises. More than just a memorial, the project seeks to reclaim Kelus place in Keralas cultural memory -- not merely as a military leader, but a symbol of religious harmony. Though he led the Kolathiri forces, Kelu was also known for his friendship with the Jonakas and later with the Arakkal dynasty, the regions first Muslim royal family, Kadannappalli added. This monument will reflect not only his bravery, but also the inclusive spirit he embodied -- a legacy Kerala can still take pride in today. The archaeology department has signed an agreement with Kannur Nirmithi Kendra to carry out construction work. The project is set to be inaugurated on May 27, with completion expected within six months. Tech & tradition A discreetly-installed sound system will play folk songs about Kelu at the touch of a specific point in the structure. The memorials design will echo the style of Kolathiri and Arakkal palaces The entrance gate will be fashioned in the style of old fort doors from Kannur and Malabar. Any clan symbols associated with Kolathiri dynasty, if found available, will be etched above the gateway

Farmer unions tell Centre they will boycott May 4 talks if Punjab govt representatives take part

CHANDIGARH: The Sanyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) have urged Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan not to invite representatives of the Punjab government to the proposed meeting between farmer unions and the Centre scheduled for May 4. The farmer unions said that if representatives of the Punjab government are called for the meeting, they will be compelled to boycott the talks. Both the farmers unions, who have been holding talks with the Centre on their demands, have written a letter to Chouhan saying they are of the firm view that the issues related to agriculture can only be resolved through talks for which they are always ready. Our last meeting was held in Chandigarh on March 19 in a very cordial atmosphere and it was decided that the next meeting will be held on May 4. But after that meeting, the Punjab government betrayed the trust of farmer leaders by arresting them and sending them to jail. The state government also used force to crush peaceful protests at the Shambhu and Khanauri borders, insulting the farmers and hurting their self-respect, said the letter which was signed by Jagjit Singh Dallewal, Abhimanyu Kohar and other farmer leaders. We request that no representatives of the Punjab government should take part in the proposed meeting on May 4. If the representatives of the state government take part in this meeting, then both the farmers unions will be compelled to abstain from the talks in accordance with justice and sentiments of farmers across the country. We further request the government to please clarify their stand in this regard to us by letter as soon as possible, added the letter. In the March 19 meeting with the farmers, besides the Union ministers, the Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian and Food Supplies Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak were also present as the Punjab government had acted as a mediator. The protesting farmers had been camping at the Shambhu (Shambhu-Ambala) and Khanauri (Sangrur-Jind) border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13 last year, when their march to Delhi was thwarted by security forces, until the Punjab Police evicted them on March 19.

Fatal end to parking dispute among college students in Kozhikode

KOZHIKODE: A parking dispute involving college students escalated into violence on Saturday night, resulting in the death of a 20-year-old man near Palakkottuvayal in Mayanad. The deceased is Sooraj, of Ambalakandi, who was working at a car service centre in Chevarambalam. According to initial reports, the confrontation began as a minor dispute between senior and junior students of Chathamangalam SNES College, where Soorajs friends are studying. Friends say that Sooraj intervened to help resolve the argument and was subsequently attacked. Police have arrested Manoj Kumar Perayottil, 50, a Chelavoor resident, along with his two sons, Vijay, 19, and Ajay, 20, as the main suspects, along with six othersAnanthu Krishna, 20, Aswin Shankar, 18, Yadukrishna, 20, Abhishanth, 21, Vijay Krishna, 21, and Nihal, 20. Another accused, who is a minor, was produced before the Juvenile Justice Board. The conflict traces back to an argument that erupted between Aswanth, a first-year student, and Vijay, a second-year student, at the college. Later that night, during a festival at Thiruthiyad temple in Chevayur, tensions flared again, leading to a violent altercation between Aswanths and Vijays gangs. There was an ongoing dispute between Aswanth and Vijay at college. Vijays father, Manoj Kumar, intervened and brought outside individuals to retaliate. Sooraj, being a close friend and relative of Aswanth, was targeted when he attempted to intervene, which ultimately led to his death, Medical College ACP A Umesh said. Sooraj suffered severe injuries from the brutal beating by a gang of approximately 15 individuals. He was rushed to Kozhikode MCH, but could not be saved.

Hindutva mob attacks shops in Haryana after Pahalgam attack

A Hindutva mob in Saha, Ambala, Haryana, reportedly vandalised and set fire to Muslim-owned shops while chanting Jai Shri Ram during a protest against the Pahalgam terror attack. A video circulating on social media shows a raged man smashing items in a shop while others around him chant Pakistan Murdabad, Bharat Mata Ki Jai. Meanwhile, 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 .

Kasturirangan was very caring, says brother

KOCHI: As the news about the passing of former Isro chairman K Kasturirangan flashed on the television, K Ananthanarayanan wiped away tears as memories come rushing back. Wife Geetha and son Sujith tried to console Ananthanarayanan, the late scientists brother, as he carefully turned the pages of the family album containing childhood photos. He was a very caring brother and called us regularly, enquiring about our health, an emotional Ananthanarayanan, 82, reminisced, sitting at his house Sreyas near Kadavanthra. We were staying with our grandparents at an old house near Valanjambalam in Kochi. Every day, anna (brother) would hold my hand while walking to the SRV School. He studied at SRV till Class 5, while I was in Class 3, when our family migrated to Mumbai. Kasturirangan completed his MSc in Mumbai and then went to Allahabad for research, he said. Vikram Sarabhai mentored him as he joined ISRO , Ananthanarayanan said. He said Kasturirangans mother died at a very young age. I was born in the second marriage of our father, Krishnaswamy. My younger brother Subburaman is settled in Maharashtra and our sister lives in Madurai. Anna had visited us here in Kochi two years ago. Facing health issues, he is unable to travel to Bengaluru for the final rites, he said. Ananthanarayanan was employed with the Indian Airlines and settled down in Kochi after retirement. His son, Sujith, is an IT professional. The family has its ancestral roots in Tamil Nadu and Kasturirangans maternal forefathers belonged to the Nallepalli Agraharam in the Chittoor taluk of Palakkad district. Kasturirangan: A visionary who gave a lift-off to Indias space achievements Goldfinger who was a hero: ISRO saw success after success with Kasturirangan at the helm

Terror attack aftermath: 4,000 tourists take train route to exit J&K

NEW DELHI: The non-availability of flights to their respective cities forced many tourists to opt for the train route in their mad rush to exit Jammu & Kashmir at the earliest following the terror attack at Pahalgam. In just two days, nearly 4,000 tourists chugged out of the state. Chief Public Relations Officer, Northern Railway, Himanshu S Upadhyay told TNIE, Apart from operating two special trains, Northern Railway attached additional bogies to regular trains to accommodate them. We also opened food stalls 24x7 at railway stations in Kashmir to facilitate a smooth route out for the tourists. Passengers managed to reach Shri Vaishnavo Devi Katra or Jammu railway stations by buses and taxis. We operated two specials from Katra via Jammu to New Delhi. Each of these trains carried at least 1,500 passengers, he said, adding, The first special train (Train no. 04612) was operated on April 23 while the second special train (Train no. 04625) was operated on April 24. The trains had stoppages at Udhampur, Jammu, Pathankot, Jalandhar, Ambala, Kurukshetra and Panipat. Pahalgam aftermath: India ramps up diplomatic outreach as world leaders continue to dial PM Modi In addition to that, extra bogies were attached to a few regular trains that left the state including Shalimar Malani (Train no. 14662) and Kolkata Express (Train no. 13152). We also gave priority to the tourists and accommodated them on trains on which people did not board at the last minute, Upadhyay said. The rush had eased by Friday and hence there was no need for any special train to be operated on April 25, he added. Food stalls were opened 24x7 at the stations. A 'mini war room' managed by railway staff was set up at Jammu to co-ordinate between all the departments and to handle the situation efficiently, the CPRO said. Help desks were opened at all the stations in J&K to offer any required support to the visitors.

TN native gets death penalty in 2022 Vineetha murder case in Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Ruling that the 2022 Ambalamukku Vineetha murder case fell in the rarest of the rare category, the Thiruvananthapuram Additional Sessions Court on Thursday handed capital punishment to Tamil Nadu native Rajendran. The court sentenced the 40-year-old resident of Thovala in TNs Kanyakumari district to death saying he was not entitled to any leniency. The parents of Vineetha, 38, and her two minor children were present in court at the time of the sentencing. The court also fined Rajendran Rs 4 lakh and said the money should go to the children. The court had perused the various reports submitted by the district collector, police and other government agencies on Rajendrans mental condition, conduct and behaviour to arrive at the decision. It had sought the reports after the prosecution demanded capital punishment for Rajendran, arguing that Vineethas murder fell in the rarest of the rare category. Special Public Prosecutor M Salahudeen argued Rajendran was a serial killer and that three of his four victims were women. The district collectors report said Rajendran was a psychopath engaged in killing, with little chance for reformation. It also supported the prosecutions argument seeking the noose for him and said, his extermination is the only course of action to save innocent people... The report by the Thiruvananthapuram city police commissioner said Rajendran was a hardcore criminal arraigned in a triple-murder case and could not be rehabilitated. Reports by the probation officers of Thiruvananthapuram, Nagercoil and Nanguneri said Rajendran was a cold-blooded killer and posed a threat to society. And while they ruled out any psychiatric issue, mental health experts said Rajendran had Cluster B personality traits characterised by dramatic, emotional and erratic behaviour. Rajendran had sought clemency saying he had to look after his 70-year-old mother. He also said he did not commit the crime as alleged by the prosecution and hence did not have remorse. The defence counsel had urged the court to consider his age and educational qualifications Rajendran has five degrees and two PG degrees. The request was overturned. Vineetha, 38, who worked at a nursery, was killed by Rajendran on February 6, 2022. A team led by the then City Police Commissioner G Sparjan Kumar and comprising then Cantonment ACP V S Dinaraj, Peroorkada Inspector V Sajikumar and others had probed the case.

Chandigarh blind murder case solved, Ambala resident held for killing friend

IAF carries out Exercise Akraman with Rafales, Su-30s

The Indian Air Force is carrying out Exercise Aakraman (Attack) over a large area in the central sector involving its mainstream fighter aircraft fleets led by the Rafale combat aircraft. The Indian Air Force operates two squadrons of the Rafale aircraft which are based out of Ambala and Hashimara in West Bengal. The cutting-edge technology [] The post IAF carries out Exercise Akraman with Rafales, Su-30s appeared first on Nagpur Today : Nagpur News .

Accused awarded death sentence in Ambalamukku murder case

Kanyakumari native Rajendran fatally stabbed Vineetha at the nursery she was working in the capital and stole her gold chain weighing 4.5 sovereigns. He is the prime accused in a 2014 triple homicide in Tamil Nadu

Death sentence for TN native in Ambalamukku Vineetha murder case

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Additional Sessions Court here on Thursday awarded capital punishment for the Tamil Nadu native, who was found guilty in the Ambalamukku Vineetha murder case. The court ruled that the case fell in the rarest of the rare category and hence Rajendran, a native of Thovala in Kanyakumari district, was not entitled to any leniency. As the judge pronounced its verdict, Vineetha's parents and two minor children were present in the court.The court also imposed a fine of Rs 8 lakh on Rajendran, of which half should go towards the children of the deceased. The court went by various reports it had received from government agencies on the mental condition, conduct and behaviour of the accused. The court had sought these reports after the prosecution argued that Vineethas murder fell in the rarest of the rare category and hence capital punishment should be awarded to the 40-year-old. Special prosecutor M Salahudeen argued that Rajendran is a serial killer and three out of his four victims were women. The district collectors report said Rajendran is a psychopath engaged in killing with little chance for reformation. It also supported the prosecutions argument seeking the noose for the accused and stated that, His extermination is the only course of action to save innocent people from a tragic end. The police too filed a similar report stating that Rajendran is a hardcore criminal and cannot be rehabilitated. Meanwhile, Rajendran sought clemency, citing that he has to look after his 70-year-old mother. He also said he did not commit the crime as alleged by the prosecution and hence he did not have any remorse. The defence counsel asked the court to consider the age of the accused before handing over the punishment, but the court did not pay any heed to that. The case was probed by a team led by then City Police Commissioner G Sparjan Kumar and comprising then Cantonment A C V S Dinaraj, Peroorkada Inspector V Sajikumar and others. Special public prosecutor Salahudeen, Devika Madhu, Fasna J and Chithra O S appeared for the prosecution. The court appreciated the investigating team, prosecutors and forensic team for the achievement.

Military Hosptial Ambala Cantt DEO Recruitment 2025 Walk in

Military Hosptial Ambala Cantt Recruitment 2025 for posts of DEO, Special Educator, More Posts. Candidates with B.Ed, 12TH, 8TH, BASLP, M.Phil/Ph.D, BOT Can attend the walkin.The Walk-in on 01-05-2025. For detailed information please visit Military Hosptial Ambala Cantt official website, ambala.cantt.gov.in.

When Kerala police went on a Gujarat road trip to pick up cyber fraudster

This one began with a hush-hush of easy money and ended with a high-stakes manhunt across blistering highways and the bustling alleys of Surat. When a resident of Kizhakkambalam in Ernakulam recently reported the loss of Rs 7.8 lakh in an online trading scam, it appeared to be just another cybercrime. But what followed was a covert operation straight out of a crime thriller. A special investigation team (SIT), guided by Ernakulam Rural Police Chief Vaibhav Saxena, swung into action. What followed were false identities, undercover disguises, and a stakeout that culminated in the dramatic arrest of a seasoned fraudster 34-year-old Gujarat native Reeten Hakkani. Thadiyittaparambu Station House Officer P J Kuriakose recalls the case:The victim came into contact with the accused through social media and was lured with promises of high returns from online trading. After gaining his trust, the accused asked him to invest through an app. Between February 17 and 7 March, the victim transferred Rs 7.8 lakh to multiple bank accounts. However, when he attempted to withdraw the displayed profits, the accused demanded a commission. This prompted the victim to file a complaint, Kuriakose says. The SIT traced the money trail to banks in Aurangabad and Surat. Senior Civil Police Officer K K Shibu, who was part of the team, notes that the funds were eventually withdrawn using a cheque in Surat. After freezing the bank accounts involved, the team quickly left for Gujarat. We chose to travel in our own vehicle. It was essential for the operation, as we needed the vehicle for local travel in Surat and to bring the accused back, says Shibu. Driving such a long distance in the scorching heat, with temperatures touching nearly 42 degrees in some places, was quite exhausting. Once in Surat, we also had to conceal the Kerala state registration number of our vehicle to avoid alerting the accused. We would park the vehicle in discreet locations, or cover the number plates with cloth or dry leaves to maintain our cover. Police officers with Reteen (centre) Officers visited the bank concerned to collect Reteens address. But the documents used to open the account turned out to be fake, including a counterfeit Aadhaar. Further investigation revealed that the accused had opened multiple accounts in Surat using fake documents, which posed the first major challenge, says Shibu. The breakthrough came when a bank manager, familiar with the locality, offered to help. He provided us with bank ID cards and suggested we pose as audit officers, says Shibu. Thats how we located the suspects luxury flat. Disguised as bank staff conducting KYC verifications, we visited the flat. But there, we found only his mother, who refused to provide any contact details. Then came a filmy twist when Reeten himself contacted Shibu via WhatsApp, having found the latters mobile number on a notice regarding the freezing of his and his mothers bank accounts. I told him I could help reactivate his mothers account at a cost. To earn his trust, I demanded a bribe, Shibu smiles. He offered Rs 1 lakh. I told him I wanted a heftier sum. He then claimed only Rs 2.54 lakh was left in the account, and offered the whole amount. I pretended as if I didnt trust him and asked for a bank statement to verify his claim. He agreed to visit the bank and get the necessary document. Officers were split to positions in and around the bank for surveillance. Reeten did arrive at the bank, but he hesitated to enter the bank. Like an ace criminal, he suspected a trap. As if he could smell police presence in the area. Reteen attempted to flee on a motorcyle as a plainclothes officer approached him. We intercepted after a brief chase and took him into custody, says Shibu. During the return journey to Kerala, Reeten refused to cooperate or eat. He even offered a bribe of up to Rs 15 lakh. He promised that the money would be arranged by a bhai in Mumbai, says Shibu. Grilling revealed that Reetens younger brother was the mastermind behind the scam, operating through a fraudulent trading app called Alice Blue from Ludhiana, Punjab. The police are now tracking three more individuals linked to this cyber fraud network. Time for another road trip.

The Superstition Playbook

There was this one night in 2019 Barcelona vs Liverpool, the second leg of that Champions League semi-final. Id watched the first leg at home, on my bed, wearing an old Bara tee and holding a stuffed penguin. Wed won 30. Life was good. So obviously, I recreated everything for the second leg same shirt, same seat, same penguin. And then we lost. 40. Messi cried. I cried. My penguin was launched across the room. Since then, Ive had a rule: Never repeat a ritual. If it worked once, its cursed the second time. Logic or delusion. Who knows? Havent you done something equally unhinged on important events? Skipped wearing black on an exam day? Knocked on wood like your life depended on it? Refused to cut your nails at night because your paati once told you its bad luck? Now throw sports into the mix. Add 11 players, sky-high expectations, and your blood pressure. And suddenly, these tiny rituals turn into full-blown religions. Especially in Chennai, where match-day emotions are not just felt, theyre performed. So I did what any self-respecting, emotionally unstable sports girlie would do I went looking for match-day superstitions. Ground zero: MCC Stadium I started at MCC Stadium, where I ran into a group of boys in CSK jerseys. They were sipping Pepsi like everything was normal until one casually said, My whole family has assigned seats for CSK matches. If we move, someone gets out. Valid. Last time my cousin sat cross-legged boom, Jadeja bowled out, said someone from the group, with a certain seriousness. Then came another voice, who has a very clear laundry policy: Ive worn the same jersey for every CSK match this season, he said. Havent washed it once. It smells like pav bhaji, but CSK is winning. So it stays. Do I gag? Yes. Do most people relate? Unfortunately, also yes. Familys planning Maanvi Gopal, from Valasaravakkam, was completely straight-faced when she said, One time, my dad turned off the kitchen light mid-over and we lost three wickets. So now we keep it on from toss to trophy. Whats your EB bill looking like, I wonder. Abigail R, a college student from Egmore, has a strict no-movement policy in her house when CSK is chasing. My chiththi walked out mid-over once and Dhoni got out, she said. Now shes banned during games. Just cutting off aunties like its nothing. Football fans = Peak delulu IPL may be a religion, but football fans in Chennai? Were built different. Dramatic. Paranoid. Deeply committed. I make my dog wear a Real Madrid jersey before every game, said Smriti Somasundaram, from Anna Nagar. We beat PSG when I put it on for him. So now its part of our routine. Was the dog okay with it. She hesitated. He doesnt love it. But we need the win. Then there was Samira Rao, a Liverpool fan, who carries match-related trauma in her bones. My ex made me leave the room during a game. Liverpool scored twice. After that, he blamed every loss on me. She deserves an apology and season tickets. Manikandan R, an Arsenal fan from West Mambalam, takes things to a whole other level. I once got a haircut before a match, and we won. So now before every big game, I cut my hair. And finally, Arvind, a diehard Man City fan, has committed to a match-day menu. I skipped dosa once before a match and we lost to Spurs, he said. Now I eat it before every game, even if Im full. My body hates me, but Haaland doesnt. Why are we like this? Superstitions give us the illusion of control in situations that are completely out of our hands. Its not just a quirk its a coping mechanism. Sports fans often feel deeply connected to their teams, but they have no real control over the outcome of a match, says Mira*, a Chennai-based sports psychologist who has worked with both athletes and high-intensity fan communities. Thats where superstitions come in they act as a psychological buffer. By creating rituals, fans feel like theyre contributing something tangible. For instance, if someone notices CSK wins every time they wear a particular yellow kurta , repeating that act becomes a comfort mechanism. Its not about logic its about managing the anxiety that comes from caring so deeply about something you cant control. These rituals can lower stress, foster a sense of personal impact, and even build community around shared beliefs. In moments of sporting chaos, they become anchors. Research supports this perspective. A study published in Scientific Reports found that performing rituals before a task can reduce anxiety and improve performance. This works for sports fans, too. Because honestly, being a fan is stressful. We scream, cry, refresh the score, and act like were part of the coaching staff. So, yelling Thala for a reason, refusing to change your position mid-over, force-feeding your dog a jersey its all emotional support. Dressed up as tradition. Do these actually work? Maybe its not real, Smriti shrugged. But it helps me believe. And thats enough. Manikandan agreed. At least I know I did my part. If we lose, its on them not me. Personally, I still havent forgiven my penguin. But Ive also never worn that Bara tee again. Because whether its rituals, jerseys, or complete emotional delusion being a fan means showing up, again and again, heart first, logic second. You scream, you cry, you believe. Not because you can control the outcome, but because hope is part of the game. So the next time you see someone pacing the terrace, clutching a dosa, or turning into Gollum over a light switch, dont question it. Theyre not superstitious. Theyre sports fans. And the universe? Better be listening. *Name changed

Kerala court to pronounce sentence in Ambalamukku Vineetha murder case on April 24

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Additional Sessions Court will pronounce the quantum of punishment for the Tamil Nadu native, who was found guilty in the Ambalamukku Vineetha murder case, on Thursday. The court on Monday heard both the defence and prosecution and received various official reports on the mental condition, conduct and behaviour of the accused from government agencies. The court had sought these reports after the prosecution argued that Vineethas murder fell in the rarest of the rare category and hence capital punishment should be awarded to 40-year-old Rajendran, a native of Thovala in Kanniyakumari district. The district collectors report said Rajendran is a psychopath engaged in killing with little chance for reformation. It also supported the prosecutions argument seeking noose for the accused and stated that, His extermination is the only course of action to save innocent people from tragic end. The police too filed a similar report stating that Rajendran is a hardcore criminal and cannot be rehabilitated. Meanwhile, Rajendran sought clemency citing that he has to look after his 70-year-old mother. He also said he did not commit the crime as alleged by the prosecution and hence he did not have any remorse. The defence counsel asked the court to consider the age of the accused before handing over the punishment. Special prosecutor M Salahudeen argued that Rajendran is a serial killer and three out of his four victims were women.

Protests erupt at Payyambalam crematorium over firewood shortage

Court to pronounce sentence in Ambalamukku Vineetha murder case on April 24; prosecution seeks death penalty

District Collector, District Police Chief state accused pose serious threat to society, shows minimal potential for reformation

Politicans are holding Kambalas, fancy events instead of working for public cause: CPI(M) leader

Court to pronounce sentence for Rajendran in Ambalamukku Vineetha murder case on Monday

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Additional Sessions Court on Monday will pronounce the quantum of sentence to the 40-year-old Tamil Nadu native, who was earlier found guilty in the Ambalamukku Vineetha murder case. Rajendran, a native of Thovala in Kanniyakumari district, was found guilty of murder, destruction of evidence and other allied charges on April 10. The prosecution led by special public prosecutor M Salahudeen had argued that the case fell in the rarest of the rare category, following which the court sought reports from various authorities. The punishment will be pronounced after the court listens to the prosecution as well as the accused. The court had directed Thiruvananthapuram district collector to file a report as to whether there is any any scope for correction and rehabilitation of the convict and whether there are chances for him not to engage in violence. The court had also ordered that Rajendran should be examined by a psychiatrist and a psychologist from Peroorkada mental hospital and they should submit a report on his mental health. The victim, Vineetha was stabbed to death Rajendran in February 2022 when a stringent lockdown due to Covid was in play.

Woman Goes To The Toilet At Ambala Bus Stand, Returns To Shocking Scenes Despite Police Presence

Upon returning, she discovered that her bag was missing, raising concerns about safety and security at the bus stand that sees heavy footfall on a daily basis

Kambala to be included in Dasara sports: DKS

Speaking at the Mooluru-Aduru Kambala on Saturday, Shivakumar said the government was committed to giving Kambala international exposure. Kambala is traditional buffalo race of coastal Karnataka

Accused found guilty in Ambalamukku Vineetha murder case

Prosecution terms the case rarest of rare. Court seeks psychological, behavioural and social background reports, sentencing on April 21

Six-Lane Highway Between Ambala To Panchkula: Haryana Transport Minister Anil Vij Announces Gadkari's Approval

Mobile service firm told to compensate consumer for deficiency in service

The complaint had been filed by an Ambalamugal native on May 5, 2023

Vellayambalam-Chenthitta road to be opened by April 25

3-km long road is being renovated at 77.81 crore. The road is being made into a four-lane road from Althara to NoRKA Junction and from Mettukada to the flyover, and a two-lane road from NoRKA to Mettukada

UP electricity department sacks Muslim employee for waving Palestine flag on Eid

SAHARANPUR: An electricity department contract worker has been dismissed from service in this Uttar Pradesh district for allegedly waving a Palestine flag on Eid, officials said on Sunday. The termination notice was issued after photographs of him waving the Palestine flag were circulated on social media. Saqib Khan, who worked in the Kailashpur power house, waved the flag after Eid 'namaaz' on March 31, the officials said. Electricity department executive engineer Sanjeev Kumar said the department deemed his action anti-national leading to his termination. Saqib Khan, a contract worker in the Kailashpur power house, waved a flag of Palestine after offering 'namaaz' on Eid and posted of it a picture on social media, Kumar said. When the matter came to the department's notice, it was considered an anti-national activity and action was taken immediately. A letter was written to the contract company concerned and it was directed to remove Khan from service, he added. The department has instructed the contract company to immediately terminate Khan's employment and confirm the action. The incident follows action against eight individuals in the district who were also seen in a video waving Palestine flags and raising slogans. The authorities are identifying other individuals involved based on widely-circulated footage and plan to initiate legal proceedings against them. Superintendent of Police (City) Vyom Bindal had said on March 31, A video has come to our notice through social media in which some youngsters are seen waving the flag of another country. The matter is being investigated, following which further action will be taken. Vyom had said that, after offering 'namaaz' at the Ambala Road Eidgah, some youngsters raised slogans while waving flags of another country that were promptly removed by the police. The police action comes amid worldwide protests in solidarity with the people of Palestine, as the genocidal war by Israel continues in full swing. More than 50,500 Palestinians have been killed by the Israel in Gaza since the beginning of the war, dubbed by several rights groups and the UN agencies as a genocide.

Final arguments conclude in Ambalamukku Vineetha murder case; court to deliver verdict on April 10

The motive behind the murder was to steal Vineethas gold necklace, which weighed around 4.5 sovereigns

Twenty20-ruled Kizhakkambalam, Aikkaranad panchayats declare surplus funds

A portion of total surplus money to be redistributed to people under various heads

Dallewal has not ended indefinite fast, says farmer leader

CHANDIGARH: Punjab farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal has not ended his indefinite fast even though he drank a glass of water after farmers detained last week by the state police were released from different jails, farmer leader Abhimanyu Kohar said on Saturday. The Punjab government on Friday told the Supreme Court that Dallewal accepted water and broke his fast. Countering the Punjab government's claims, Kohar said on Saturday Dallewal had made it clear he would take water only after all the farmers are released. And Dallewal drank a glass of water after farmer leaders were released, said Kohar, a close aide of Dallewal. We want to make it clear that a false impression was being given that Dallewal has ended his indefinite fast. His hunger strike continues. Punjab Advocate General Gurminder Singh told the apex court on Friday they dispersed on March 19 the farmers protesting at Khanauri and Shambhu border points with Haryana, and opened the roads and highways that were blocked due to the sit-ins. Protesting farmers and some of their leaders were also detained by the Punjab Police on that day. Another farmer leader, Kaka Singh Kotra, also said on Saturday when Dallewal came to know about the detention of farmers, he refused to take water till they were all released. He took water after the farmers were released, said Kotra. Dallewal (70) is a senior leader of the joint forum of the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha. He began his indefinite hunger strike on November 26 last year to press the Centre to accept their demands including a legal guarantee to provide Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops. After the Centre invited the farmer leaders for talks in January, Dallewal had started taking medical aid at the Khanauri protest site but did not end his fast. Several farmer leaders including Sarwan Singh Pandher, Abhimanyu Kohar, Kaka Singh Kotra and other leaders, detained during the March 19 police action, were released on Friday. Kisan Mazdoor Morcha leader Pandher was released from Muktsar jail while Kohar, Kotra and some other farmer leaders were released from Patiala central jail. After their release, they met Dallewal in the hospital on Friday. The farmer leaders were detained on March 19 when they were returning from a meeting with a central delegation led by Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan in Chandigarh. The meeting was organised to discuss the farmers' demands, especially the MSP guarantee. As the departing farmers entered Mohali after the meeting, they were met with heavy barricading and some of their leaders were detained. Police had evicted farmers and had dismantled temporary structures from the Shambhu and Khanauri border points. Vehicular traffic had resumed on the Shambhu-Ambala and Sangrur-Jind highways. Several farmers, who were part of the Shambhu and Khanauri protests, have claimed that their belongings including trolleys were missing, adding that they might have been stolen.

Farmer leader Pandher accuses AAP, BJP of conspiring against farmers; vows to continue protest

CHANDIGARH: Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher, released from jail today, accused both the BJP-led Union Government and the AAP-led Punjab Government of conspiring to undermine the ongoing farmers' protest 2.0. He likened the central government to invader Ahmad Shah Abdali and the Punjab government to Zakaria Khan, notorious for persecuting Sikhs. Pandher, the convenor of Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, was released from Muktsar jail, while Abhimanyu Kohar, Kaka Kotra and some other farmer leaders were released from Patiala central jail. Speaking to the media at the Bahadurgarh Commando Complex near Patiala, Pandher questioned the AAP government's stance, which had previously claimed that the farmers' protests were directed against the central government. He raised concerns over the events of March 19, when the government allegedly attacked farmers returning from a meeting with central and state ministers . Pandher asked whether Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann aimed to protect central ministers or if there was a fear of the Enforcement Directorate's actions. He alleged that the Mann government conspired with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to target the farmers as both the government actively participated in demolishing the protest sites. Pandher stated that the morchas will continue in any form, and the action plans, including protests in front of AAP MLAs' and ministers' residences on March 31, will proceed as scheduled. He further alleged that orders are now being dictated by corporate interests and Washington, who have historically been opposed to farmers, similar to the orders once issued by Abdali. Pandher also claimed that drugs are openly available in jails, asserting that the Yuth Nashaa Virodh scheme has failed. Pandher condemned the state police's actions against protesting farmers at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points, where they had been camped for over a year demanding, among other things, a legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of crops. In a police crackdown on March 19, several farmer leaders were detained as they were returning from a meeting with a central delegation led by Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan in Chandigarh. The meeting aimed to address the farmers' demands, particularly a legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of crops. As the farmers were leaving the meeting and entering Mohali, they encountered heavy barricading , and some of their leaders were detained. The police also evicted farmers and dismantled temporary structures at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points, leading to the resumption of vehicular traffic on the Shambhu-Ambala and Sangrur-Jind highways. Farmers criticized the AAP government for detaining their leaders and removing protesters from the border points, where they had been camping since February 13 of last year, after their march to Delhi was blocked by Haryana Police. Meanwhile, the Punjab Government informed the Supreme Court today that farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal had ended his 123-day fast and begun accepting water. Punjab BJP President Jakhar slams AAP, Congress over farmer protests, accuses CM Mann of betrayal

Days after crackdown Punjab cops free 800 farmers, 450 more to be released

CHANDIGARH: Days after the crackdown on protesting farmers, Punjab Police on Monday said it has released nearly 800 farmers from detention and is going to free 450 more on the direction of the state government. Since March 19, hundreds of farmers had been taken into custody after the AAP government decided to clear the protest sites, claiming that the stir had impacted businesses, industries and the general public. In a statement here, Inspector General of Police (Headquarters) Sukhchain Singh Gill said, Punjab Government has already released approximately 800 farmers from the police custody. The official said that Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has directed he immediate release of farmers including women, differently-abled individuals, farmers with medical conditions, and those above the age of 60. In line with the directives of the Punjab Government, we are prioritising the release of such farmers and about 450 farmers are being released today, he said. The protesting farmers had lashed out at the AAP government for detaining their leaders and removing protesters from the Shambhu and Khanauri border points, where they had been camping since February 13 last year after their march to Delhi was thwarted by security personnel. On grievances of the farmers related to their belongings during the eviction from protest sites, the IGP said that the Punjab Government has issued strict directions in this regard and nobody will be permitted to misappropriate the belongings of farmers. To address the concern about the belongings of farmers, the Patiala district police has also appointed SP-rank officer Jasbir Singh as the Nodal Officer, and farmers facing issues related to their possessions can directly contact SP Jasbir Singh at the mobile number 90713-00002 for immediate assistance, Gill said. Patiala Police has already registered three first information reports (FIRs) in this regard, he said. Slamming the crackdown against the protesting farmers by Punjab Police, the national coordination committee of the Samyukt Kisan Morcha on Sunday had called upon farmers across India to hold protest demonstrations at districts across the country on March 28. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) were the two organisations that spearheaded the protests at Shambhu and Khanauri. Punjab Police had detained several farmers and many farmer leaders, in Mohali on Wednesday as they were returning after a meeting with a central delegation led by Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan in Chandigarh. The meeting discussed the various demands of the farmers, especially a law guaranteeing minimum support price (MSP) for crops. As the departing farmers entered Mohali after the meeting, they were met with heavy barricading and some of their leaders were detained. Meanwhile, vehicular traffic had on Friday resumed on the Khanauri border point after the barricades that had been put up in the wake of the farmers' protest were removed. Earlier on Thursday, traffic had resumed on the Shambhu-Ambala Highway after more than a year, a day after Punjab Police demolished their temporary structures at the protest site.

Shambala obliges in the feature event

Shambala fancied for feature event

Chandigarh Diary | President's request before attending convocation

President Droupadi Murmu set an example of humility as she recently attended two convocation ceremonies in Punjab one at the Central University of Punjab (CUP) and the other at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Bhatinda. The Presidents secretariat had asked both institutions that the chair designated for the President must not be more grandiose than the other dignitaries on the stage and during the scheduled group photograph with students. Also, a sign language interpreter was engaged to sensitise institutions and students on differently-abled persons, an official said. Khattar meets former Cabinet colleague on Holi On eve of Holi, Union minister Manohar Lal Khattar and Haryana cabinet minister Anil Vij surprised everyone as they met each other at Ambala cantonment and praised each others work. The meeting comes after Vij was served a show cause notice for his comments agaist CM Nayab Singh Saini and Haryana BJP chief Mohan Lal Badoli. Clarifying his stand, Vij had said, despite occasional differences over certain issues, he had no personal grudge against the leaders. Khattar, however, greeted Vij as one of his oldest friends, terming Vijs assembly segment a saffron party stronghold. Infighting in Punjab Congress once again out in open Days after state Congress in-charge Bhupesh Baghel directed the Punjab leadership to raise issues against each other on the party platform, the cold war between Bholath MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira and Kapurthala MLA Rana Gurjeet Singh, who have been on loggerheads for many years, once again erupted. When Rana announced he would purchase maize from farmers for two years at MSP, Khaira took to X saying Rana was propagating private purchase of maize for his ethanol plants. Earlier, Rana had supported the BJP governments proposal to implement private marketing of crops as part of the three now-junked farm laws in 2021. Harpreet Bajwa Our correspondent in Chandigarh hsbajwa73@gmail.com

Haryana removes barricades after farmers' eviction

Following the eviction of protesting farmers from the Shambhu border, Haryana security personnel began removing cemented barricades erected to prevent Punjab farmers from reaching Delhi. The Shambhu-Ambala road, closed for over a year, is being cleared with JCBs and other machinery. Meanwhile, the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha announced dharnas outside deputy commissioners' offices in protest against the Punjab Police crackdown. The groups criticized the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab for evicting the protesters and detaining farmer leaders on Wednesday. The police action was justified by Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, who said industries and businesses were hit hard due to the prolonged closure of the highways. The protesting farmers, led by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, had been camping at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points since February 13, 2022.

Farmers protest: Industrialists welcome highway reopening; unions to hold nationwide dharnas

CHANDIGARH: The arrest of farmer leaders and the eviction of protesting farmers from the Shambhu and Khanauri borders has sparked mixed reactions. While farmers staged statewide protests, traders, industrialists, and commuters largely welcomed the move, citing economic losses due to prolonged road blockades. Following the eviction, Haryana Police began dismantling cemented barricades at the Shambhu border on Thursday morning. These barriers had been erected last year to prevent farmers from Punjab from marching towards Delhi as part of the 'Delhi Chalo' protest. JCB machines were deployed to remove concrete blocks and clear the Shambhu-Ambala road, which had remained closed for over a year. Temporary structures and stages set up by the protesters were also dismantled as part of the clearance operation. Meanwhile, Haryana Police issued notices to farmer leaders Jasmeet Singh and Tejveer Singh, summoning them to appear before the Special Investigation Team (SIT) on Thursday. The SIT is investigating cases registered against them last year. The notice warned that failure to comply would result in legal action. BKU leader Rakesh Tikait has called on farmer unions across the country to unite, warning that governments will continue to suppress farmer protests while favouring corporate interests. Similarly, Satnam Singh Pannu, president of the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, criticised the police action, stating that instead of bringing change (badlaav), Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann was engaging in politics of revenge (badle ki rajniti). Industrialists expressed relief, stating that reopening highways would revive the economy and boost tourism. They claimed that the year-long blockade had caused severe economic losses and disrupted daily life. Sources indicate that the crackdown followed pressure from Ludhiana traders, who warned AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal that continued protests could impact the partys prospects in the Ludhiana West Assembly by-election. Many farmers detained from Khanauri have been held at a location in Pattran, while those arrested from Mohali and the Shambhu border were shifted to Patiala Central Jail. In Gurdaspur, farmers protesting outside the Deputy Commissioners office for three days dispersed quietly on Thursday morning after police warned of mass arrests. Meanwhile, in Bathinda, police detained farmers near Jeeda toll plaza. Internet services in Sangrur and Patiala districts remained suspended. Intensifying their agitation, farmers in Punjab and Haryana have announced plans to stage protests outside Deputy Commissioner (DC) offices across both states, aimed at pressing for their pending demands, including a legal guarantee on Minimum Support Price (MSP), farm loan waivers, and compensation for crop losses. Farmers' unions have announced a peaceful yet resolute demonstrations, stressing that their demands remain unfulfilled despite several rounds of talks with the government. Meanwhile, security has been tightened across various districts to prevent any untoward incidents. The protests are part of a larger agitation for long-term policy changes and financial support to secure farmers' livelihoods. Leaders have urged authorities to address their concerns promptly to avoid further escalation. The protesting farmers, led by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, had been camping at the Shambhu (Shambhu-Ambala) and Khanauri (Sangrur-Jind) borders since 13 February last year, when their march to Delhi was halted by security forces.

Haryana forces remove barricades to clear Shambhu-Ambala road; Punjab farmers announce dharnas

CHANDIGARH: Following the eviction of protesting farmers from the Shambhu border, Haryana security personnel on Thursday morning started removing cemented barricades, which were erected to prevent the Punjab farmers from heading to Delhi. At the Shambhu border, JCB and other machines have been deployed to remove the concrete blocks to clear the Shambhu-Ambala road, which remained closed for over a year. The Haryana security officials had fortified the state border with Punjab with cement blocks, iron nails and barbed wire to scuttle any attempt by the farmers from Punjab to move towards the capital as part of their 'Delhi Chalo' programme. Punjab Police also resumed its operation to dismantle the remaining temporary structures on the Punjab side of the Shambhu border on Thursday to clear the road. Meanwhile, the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha on Thursday announced to hold dharnas outside the offices of deputy commissioners in protest against the Punjab Police crackdown. Both the bodies, which spearheaded the farmers' stir at Shambhu and Khanauri border points, slammed the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab for evicting the protesters and detaining farmer leaders on Wednesday. Punjab Police detained several farmer leaders, including Sarwan Singh Pandher and Jagjit Singh Dallewal, in Mohali on Wednesday as they were returning after a meeting with a central delegation led by Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan in Chandigarh. Police also evicted the agitating farmers from the Shambhu and Khanauri protest sites, which were blocked for more than a year, and dismantled the temporary structures and stages put up there using JCB machines. At the meeting in Chandigarh, the seventh round of talks between the two sides, the central delegation was also represented by Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi and Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. The meeting discussed the various demands of the farmers, especially a law guaranteeing minimum support price (MSP) for crops. As the departing farmers entered Mohali after the meeting, they were met with heavy barricading. Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee (KMSC) leader Satnam Singh Pannu on Thursday condemned the police action, and accused the Punjab government of being hand-in-glove with the Centre in launching the crackdown on the protesting farmers. It was the murder of democratic rights. The farmers wanted to go to Delhi but the Haryana government barricaded the roads at the Centre's behest, Pannu alleged. Thousands of policemen were deployed to forcibly remove the dharna from Shambhu and Khanauri border points, he said. The governments led by Bhagwant Mann and the BJP at the Centre will face the consequences, Pannu warned. He also said the two farmer bodiesSamyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morchawill hold dharnas against the police action outside the offices of the deputy commissioners in Punjab and other states. Thousands of farmers, including women, will take part in the dharna. We will intensify our agitation in support of our demands, Pannu said. Condemning the police action against the farmers, KMSC leader Sukhwinder Singh said, Farmers did not block the roads. The Centre did. Even today we want to go to Delhi as our demands concern the Centre. Punjab Chief Minister Mann showed his 'loyalty' to the BJP government at the Centre by initiating the police action, he alleged. Meanwhile, farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who is on an indefinite fast since November 26 last year, was taken to the Punjab Institute of Medical Sciences in Jalandhar. Later, he was taken to some other place. On Wednesday, farmer leader Guramneet Singh Mangat said Abhimanyu Kohar, Kaka Singh Kotra and Manjit Singh Rai were among the detainees alongside Pandher and Dallewal. Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema justified the eviction of farmers, saying industries and businesses have been hit hard due to the prolonged closure of the two highways, which he called he lifelines of the state. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is committed towards generating employment for the youth. And they will get jobs only if the trade and industry functions smoothly, Cheema said on Wednesday. Trade has been suffering. This action has been taken after considering all the situations. We have been telling the farmer leaders that your fight is with the Centre, and we are with you. But you are causing heavy loss to Punjab by closing the border, the finance minister added. He also said the Punjab government remains committed to supporting the farmers in their legitimate demands, claiming that the AAP ministers are actively working to present the farmers' concerns before the Centre. We urge the farmer leaders to focus their struggle against the Centre while allowing Punjab to progress. We stand with the farmers today, as we always have, and will continue to fight alongside them, Cheema said. The protesting farmers, led by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, were camping at the Shambhu (Shambhu-Ambala) and Khanauri (Sangrur-Jind) border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13 last year, when their march to Delhi was thwarted by security forces.

Farmers protest LIVE updates: Punjab Police evicts farmers from Shambhu and Khanauri protest sites

The protesting farmers were camping at the Shambhu (Shambhu-Ambala) and Khanauri (Sangrur-Jind) border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13 last year, when their march to Delhi was thwarted by security forces

More than a year after launching protest, farmers evicted by Punjab govt from Shambhu, Khanauri borders

CHANDIGARH: More than a year after launching their protest, farmers were evicted on Wednesday evening from both the Shambhu and Khanauri borders between Punjab and Haryana, which have been closed for normal traffic due to the stir. This came after the Punjab Police had detained Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) and Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non Political) leaders Sarwan Singh Pandher and Jagjit Singh Dallewal, while they were en route from Chandigarh to the Shambhu and Khanauri borders after the seventh round of talks between farmer leaders and the Union government remained inconclusive. Dallewal has been on a hunger strike since November last year. On the Haryana side, these border points are still barricaded. The authorities had erected cement and other barricades there in order to stop the farmers from moving towards Delhi. The farmer leaders were traveling back to the Shambhu border from Chandigarh, from where Dallewal and other leaders were supposed to proceed to Khanauri. However, they were detained upon reaching the Jagatpura area of Mohali. Dallewal was taken into custody while inside his ambulance, while others were detained along with their vehicles after some resistance. Pandher was detained from his vehicle from the Zirakpur barrier as he attempted to flee. Fourteen farmer leaders and others accompanying the two were also detained. Pandher has been taken to Bahadurgarh Fort Commando Police Training Centre in Patiala. This has been transformed into a makeshift detention centre, with a majority of farmer leaders and protesting farmers, except Dallewal, being taken there. After detaining the farmer leaders, a heavy police force headed by senior officers reached both border points and detained the farmers sitting at these places. They were asked to sit in vehicles arranged by the police, with some force being used at Khanauri to evuct them. After that, with the help of JCBs, the makeshift stages and other structures including their tents were dismantled and the tractor-trolleys taken away. Around 200 farmers were detained at Khanauri and around 40-odd farmers at Shambhu. Internet services have been suspended in many areas around the Shambhu border and a heavy police force has been deployed in nearby villages. The decision to take action against the protesting farmer unions was reportedly made on Tuesday night, following a meeting between top AAP functionaries and industrialists who expressed concerns that the protests were incurring significant costs. Farmer leaders Jagjit Singh Dallewal, Sarwan Singh Pandher detained by Punjab Police in Mohali Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that the step was necessitated for the economic growth of the state. Deputy Inspector of Police (Patiala Range) Mandeep Singh Sidhu who was at the Khanauri border and Senior Superintendent of Police of Patiala Nanak Singh who was at the Shambhu border said that the farmers were requested to cooperate and clear the road. The farmers willing to go to their native places were sent, said Singh, adding that the road will be cleared and they are in touch with their Haryana counterparts to clear it from the other side for unhindered traffic movement. Sidhu said, We all are children of farmers and told them to cooperate and clear the protest sites. The protesting farmers have been camping at the Shambhu (Shambhu-Ambala) and Khanauri (Sangrur-Jind) border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13 last year when their march to Delhi was thwarted by security forces. #WATCH | Punjab Police demolished the tents erected by farmers at the Punjab-Haryana Shambhu Border, where they were sitting on a protest over various demands. The farmers are also being removed from the Punjab-Haryana Shambhu Border. pic.twitter.com/TzRZKEjvXD ANI (@ANI) March 19, 2025 Many opposition leaders lashed out at the AAP government over the police action to detain farmers. Union Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Bittu has strongly condemned the police crackdown on farmers. Former chief minister and MP Charanjit Singh Channi stated that the AAP government succumbed to pressure from the BJP-led central government and took action against the farmers. Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring has strongly condemned the actions of both the central BJP government and AAP government in the state, accusing them of betraying and backstabbing farmers. He questioned the need for the Punjab Police to arrest farmer leaders while negotiations were already underway between the central government and farmers.

BJP's landslide victory in Ambala Sadar MC elections

BJP won the Ambala Sadar Municipal Council elections with 25 out of 32 seats, including the council president's seat. Minister Anil Vij praised the result as a reward for development efforts in the region. BJP supporters celebrated enthusiastically. The victory shows BJP's growing influence in Haryana and the decline of opposition parties.

BJP sweeps civic bodies election in northern Haryana districts, Barara won by independent

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has won all the presidential seats and a mayoral seat in Ambala, Kurukshetra, and Yamunanagar districts of Haryana, except for the Barara Municipal Council. The elections were peaceful, with significant vote margins in favor of BJP candidates in Ambala City, Ambala Sadar, Thanesar, Ismailabad, and Yamunanagar-Jagadhri.

'Stamp of approval': Haryana CM Saini vows rapid development by 'triple-engine govt' as BJP sweeps 9 of 10 civic bodies

The BJP secured a sweeping victory in Haryanas civic polls, winning key cities like Ambala, Faridabad, and Gurugram. CM Nayab Singh Saini called the results a public endorsement of the riple-engine government driving rapid development. He reaffirmed PM Modis vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047 and pledged to fulfill the BJPs poll promise, including financial aid for women under the 'Lado Lakshmi Yojana.'

BJP sweeps Haryana civic polls, big setback for Cong

The BJP registered emphatic victories in seven municipal corporations in Haryana, while its nominees were leading in two other civic bodies in the recently held elections. The Congress, which was hoping to improve its electoral fortunes after a defeat in the 2024 Assembly polls, suffered another setback. The BJP candidates won with large margins in Faridabad, Gurugram, Hisar, Karnal, Rohtak, Sonipat, and Ambala. The BJP was also leading in Yamunanagar and Panipat. In Manesar, an Independent candidate, Inderjeet Yadav, won the mayoral election. The results are seen as a major setback for the Congress, which has been facing internal turmoil and factionalism.

BJP set to sweep Haryana civic polls, its eight mayoral candidates in the lead

CHANDIGARH: The mayoral candidate of the BJP won the Ambala municipal corporation and its nominees were leading in eight other civic bodies in Haryana, as the counting of votes for the recently held elections went underway on Wednesday. The Congress, which was hoping to make a comeback after suffering a defeat in the 2024 Assembly polls, was trailing. Elections for the posts of mayor and ward members in the municipal corporations of Manesar, Gurugram, Faridabad, Hisar, Rohtak, Karnal, Yamunanagar, Panipat, Ambala and Sonipat were held earlier this month. Bypolls for the post of mayor in the municipal corporations of Ambala and Sonipat were also held. In Ambala, Shailja Sachdeva, the BJP candidate for the mayor's post, defeated her nearest Congress rival Amisha Chawla by a margin of 20,487 votes. In Faridabad, the ruling party's mayoral candidate Parveen Joshi was leading over Congress' Lata Rani, while Raj Rani of BJP was leading over Seema Pahuja from Gurugram. In Manesar, however, BJP candidate Sunder Lal was trailing Independent candidate Inderjeet Yadav. Praveen Popli of the BJP was leading from Hisar over the Congress' Krishan Singla. In Karnal, the BJP's Renu Bala Gupta was ahead of the Congress' Manoj Wadhwa. In Panipat, the BJP's Komal Saini was leading over Congress' Savita Garg while Ram Avtar of the Safron outfit was leading over Surajmal Kiloi in Rohtak. Senior BJP leader Rajiv Jain was leading over Congress' Komal Dewan in Sonipat. In Yamunanagar, Suman of the BJP was ahead of Congress' Kirna Devi. Extensive arrangements have been made by the Haryana State Election Commission in coordination with the district administrations concerned to ensure smooth conduct of the counting process, officials said.

IAF An-32 transport aircraft meets with accident in Bengal's Bagdogra, all crew safe

NEW DELHI: The Indian Air Forces (IAF) An-32 (Antonov 32) transport aircraft on Friday met with an accident in Bagdogra, West Bengal. The IAF officials said, It is confirmed that there was an incident involving AN32 aircraft. The aircraft is being recovered from the site. Crew of the aircraft is safe. confirmed the officials. It was the second accident of the day as before a Jaguar combat aircraft of the force crashed at Ambala, Haryana during a routine training sortie after encountering system malfunction. The IAF said, The pilot maneuvered the aircraft away from any habitation on ground, before ejecting safely. An inquiry has been ordered by the IAF, to ascertain the cause of the accident. The Russian manufactured medium lift tactical aircraft, Antonov-32s (AN-32s), were inducted in early 80s and around 100 are serving with the Air Force. The incident marked the second mishap of the day for the Indian Air Force, following the crash of a Jaguar combat aircraft in Ambala during a routine training sortie.

Two IAF aircraft incidents in a day: AN-32 crash lands in Bagdogra, Jaguar goes down in Ambala

An Indian Air Force AN-32 aircraft made a crash landing at Bagdogra, West Bengal, with no injuries to the crew. On the same day, a Jaguar fighter aircraft crashed in Haryana's Ambala district due to a system malfunction; the pilot ejected safely. Investigations are underway for both incidents.

Indian Air Force transport aircraft crash lands in West Bengal's Bagdogra, crew safe

An Indian Air Force AN-32 transport aircraft crash-landed in Bagdogra, West Bengal, with the crew escaping unhurt. The aircraft is being recovered. Earlier in the day, an IAF Jaguar fighter crashed in Panchkula, Haryana, during a training sortie from Ambala airbase. The pilot safely ejected, and a Court of Inquiry is ordered into the accident.

IAF Jaguar cashes in Haryana, pilot ejects safely

An Indian Air Force Jaguar aircraft crashed in Haryana's Panchkula district on Friday, with the pilot ejecting safely. The aircraft crashed in the hilly terrain of Panchkula district near Morni hills, with the pilot successfully maneuvering it away from any populated areas. No injuries or fatalities were reported on the ground. The aircraft was on a routine training sortie from Ambala when it encountered a system malfunction and crashed. The IAF has ordered an inquiry to determine the cause of the incident.

IAF's Jaguar aircraft crashes in Haryana, pilot ejects safely

CHANDIGARH: Indian Air Force's Jaguar aircraft crashed in Haryana's Panchkula district on Friday with the pilot ejecting safely, said a police official. He said the pilot maneuvered the aircraft away from any habitation on the ground and there was no loss of life or injury reported to anyone on the ground. The IAF aircraft crashed in the hilly terrain of Panchkula district (near Morni hills). The pilot ejected safely, SHO, Raipurrani in Panchkula district told PTI over the phone. Haryana Deputy Commissioner of Police Himadree Kaushik told PTI that the aircraft crashed in Raipurrani area of Panchkula district. VIDEO | A Jaguar aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed at Ambala during a routine training sortie today, after encountering a system malfunction. The pilot maneuvered the aircraft away from any habitation on ground, before ejecting safely. More details awaited. (Video pic.twitter.com/Oc1b5jAPe2 Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 7, 2025 Sources said the aircraft had taken off on a routine training sortie from Ambala. The IAF in a post on X said the aircraft crashed when it was on a routine training sortie after encountering a system malfunction. An inquiry has been ordered by the IAF to ascertain the cause of the incident, said the post. Last month, a twin-seater Mirage 2000 fighter aircraft crashed near Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh, during a routine training sortie. Both pilots ejected safely before the crash. In November 2024, a MiG-29 fighter jet went down in a field near Agra, Uttar Pradesh, following a technical glitch during a routine training sortie. The pilot managed to eject safely before impact.

News18 Evening Digest: What MEA Said On Jaishankar's Security Breach By Khalistani Protestors & Other Top Stories

We are also covering: IAFs Jaguar Plane Crashes In Haryana's Ambala, Tamannaah Bhatia Talks About 'Ek Tarfah Pyaar' Amid Breakup Rumours With Vijay Varma

Indian Air Force's Jaguar fighter jet crashes in Haryana, pilot ejects safely; no casualties reported

A Jaguar aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed in Haryana's Ambala during a routine training sortie today, i.e., March 7, due to a system malfunctioning.

Indian Air Force's Jaguar Plane Crashes In Haryana's Panchkula, Pilot Ejects | Ambala News | News18

A Jaguar warplane of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed in Haryanas Panchkula on Friday, officials told.IAF officials told the news agency that the pilot ejected and there is no information of any casualties at the moment. n18oc_breaking-news

Indian Air Force's Jaguar Fighter Jet Crashes In Ambala, Pilot Ejects Safely

A Jaguar aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed at Ambala during a routine training sortie today, after encountering a system malfunction.

Indian Air Force's Jaguar fighter jet crashes in Haryana

A Jaguar fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force crashed in Ambala, Haryana, following a system malfunction after a routine training sortie from Ambala airbase. The pilot safely ejected and maneuvered the aircraft away from populated areas. A Court of Inquiry has been ordered to investigate the incident. More details are awaited on the matter.

Sri Lankas Tamil parties have no choice but to unite in Parliament: Gajendrakumar Ponnambalam

Dissanayake governments position on addressing racism is welcome, but it needs to show qualitative change in action, says Jaffna MP

Polling underway for municipal elections in Haryana

CHANDIGARH: Polling was underway for election of mayors and all ward members in seven municipal corporations and some other municipalities of Haryana on Sunday, officials said. Voting is being held for the election of mayors and all ward members in seven municipal corporations of Gurugram, Manesar, Faridabad, Hisar, Rohtak, Karnal, and Yamunanagar. Additionally, by-elections for the post of mayor in Ambala and Sonipat municipal corporations, are also taking place. The voting is being held from 8 am to 6 pm. Similarly, elections are being conducted for the president and all ward members of four municipal councils of Ambala Sadar, Pataudi Jatoli Mandi, Thanesar, and Sirsa. Bye-election is also being held for the post of president in municipal council Sohna, district Gurugram. VIDEO | Haryana: Security deployed outside a polling booth in Karnal as municipal election is underway. (Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvrpG7 ) pic.twitter.com/fvV2N54EzC Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 2, 2025 Voting is also taking place for the election of presidents and all ward members in 21 municipal committees. Bye-elections for the post of president in Assandh (Karnal district) and Ismailabad (Kurukshetra district) municipal committee is also taking place. Among the early voters included Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, who cast his vote at a polling booth in Karnal. Khattar appealed to voters to come out and cast their vote. Casting vote is our democratic right and it is also our duty to exercise our franchise, he said. VIDEO | Haryana Municipal Elections: Union Minister and Former CM of Haryana Manohar Lal Khattar ( @mlkhattar ) is in Karnal to cast his vote. Here's what he said: The local government is an important part in democracy. The BJP got successes in Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha pic.twitter.com/P8rmJHFlep Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 2, 2025 Haryana State Election Commissioner Dhanpat Singh said extensive arrangements, including those pertaining to security, have been made for the free, fair and transparent elections of the urban local bodies. Singh said that 39 candidates are contesting for the posts of mayor in nine municipal corporations. Similarly, 27 candidates are in the fray for the posts of president in five municipal councils. A total of 151 candidates are contesting for the posts of president in 23 municipal committees. In some wards, only one candidate has filed a nomination, leading to their unopposed election. The polls are being conducted through EVMs. Polling for the Panipat municipal corporation will take place on March 9. After the completion of the election process, vote counting will begin at 8 AM on March 12, and results will be declared on the same day. Earlier, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini exuded confidence that the BJP will win the civic polls and said that after the formation of the riple-engine government, work will be done three times faster. The Congress has appealed to the electorate for a full majority for the party. Congress worker's body found stuffed in suitcase in Haryana's Rohtak, party demands high-level probe

Goldy Brar gang member injured in 'encounter' with police in Punjab's Mohali

CHANDIGARH: A member of the Goldy Brar gang Malkiat Singh, alias 'Maxi' was injured in an encounter with the Punjab police. Malkiat Singh was allegedly trying to escape from police custody at Bhankharpur in Dera Bassi on Saturday morning when he was shot at by the Punjab police and Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF). Director General of Police (DGP), Punjab, Gaurav Yadav said the gangster sustained bullet injury on his left leg while unsuccessfully attempting to escape from police custody near Ghagar bridge on Zirakpur-Ambala Highway in Dera Bassi. Malkiat Singh, a native of Rodala village in Rajasansi near Amritsar, is an operative of foreign-based terrorist Goldy Brar and Gangster Goldy Dhillon. He was operating an extortion racket on their behalf. Recently, 'Maxi' and his accomplice Sandeep alias Deep were arrested by the Patiala Police in Arms Act case. Subsequently, both were brought on production warrant from Patiala Jail by SAS Nagar Police on Friday, in connection with an extortion case. The case relates to the suspects targeting a Mohali-based property dealer and demanding Rs 50 lakh from him in January 2025. Gaurav Yadav said that following the disclosures of 'Maxi,' a police team led by DSP Dera Bassi Bikramjit Singh Brar was taking him to a spot where he had confessed to have concealed a .32 Calibre Pistol on Zirakpur-Ambala Highway in a bid to harm the property dealer. However, upon reaching the location, 'Maxi' allegedly opened fire at the police team in an attempt to flee from custody. The police retaliated in which 'Maxi' sustained bullet injury on his left leg. He has been shifted to Civil Hospital in Mohali for treatment. Gaurav Yadav said the weapon along with three cartridges and two used and empty casings have been recovered from his possession. Sharing more details, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) SAS Nagar Deepak Pareek said that the arrested accused has a criminal history with cases pertaining to extortion and arms act registered against him. Further investigations are on, he added. A fresh case has been registered under sections 109, 132, 221 and 262 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and section 25 of the Arms Act at Police Station Dera Bassi in SAS Nagar. Two gangsters injured in encounter In another encounter between the state police and gangsters in Kheda village of Tarn Taran district, two gangsters sustained injuries while one was arrested. A police vehicle was also hit by a bullet during the exchange of fire. Sources said the three gangsters Arshdeep Singh, Robinpreet Singh, and Karandeep Singh were involved in the shootout. They had a criminal history, particularly in cases relating to extortion and drug trafficking under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS Act). Illegal weapon smuggling module busted Meanwhile the Counter Intelligence in Amritsar has busted an illegal weapon smuggling module with the arrest of on associate of Jaggu Bhagwanpuria gang and recovered six .32 bore pistols along with 10 cartridges from his possession. The arrested accused has been identified as Gurbaaz Singh, a resident of Warring Suba Singh village in Tarn Taran. The latter has been facing at least eight criminal cases pertaining to attempt to murder, snatching, NDPS act, and violations of the Arms Act. A case has been registered under section 25 of the Arms Act and 61(2) and 111 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at Police Station State Special Operations Cell (SSOC), Amritsar.

Bullets fired in Ambala court premises

Gunfire erupted at the Ambala court premises when residents of Ambala Cantt arrived to give their statements. According to Kotwali Police station SHO, Sunil Vats, the shooting was potentially the result of a rivalry. The investigation, now managed by the Crime Branch, is ongoing to uncover further details about the incident.

Two People Fire Shots In Air In Ambala Court Complex

Two unidentified persons opened fire in the air in the Ambala Court complex, causing panic in the area.

Greater Chennai Corporation demolishes 2 temples that encroached upon Mambalam canal

Owing to the blockage caused by the temples, 20 residential neighbourhoods in T. Nagar were floodedduring the northeast monsoon

No sympathy towards deportees as they went abroad illegally through 'dunky route': Manohar Lal Khattar

Union Power and Urban Development Minister and former Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar said that there should be no sympathy towards deportees as they went abroad illegally through the dunky route. He spoke about the village in Haryana where over 300 youth have settled abroad and mostly went via the 'Dunky Route'. This comes amid the United States deported as many as 333 illegal immigrants back to India on three flights and 12 from Panama. Khattar said this just a few days ahead of the voting for municipality election which is scheduled to be held on March 2. Citing an example of the village Dabri in Karnal, Khattar said that during the parliamentary elections last year, he had visited the village and was shocked to find out that there was only one person in the whole village who was a government employee. He was told that over 300 villagers have settled abroad and most of them have gone through dunki route. Khattar said that this is illegal and there is no surety if the person who goes abroad through this method will be able to return or not. This route is very risky, he added. In a reply to another question about the illegal immigrants who were deported back from the US and were handcuffed, Khattar said that every country has its own law and regulations and one cannot argue about that. Those who have entered a country illegally are criminals. There should be no sympathy towards them. Our people undertake these journeys despite being advised against it. They should not take this route. It is as bad as drug addiction. Why should we show sympathy towards them? He further added, Whichever way they have been sent back, it is now our worry as to how we have to rehabilitate them. The 113 illegal immigrants from the state who have been deported back are mostly from Ambala, Kurukshetra, Karnal, Kaithal and Hisar. These deportees had paid travel agents between Rs 40 lakh to Rs 70 lakh and a family of four from Kurukshetra including two minors paid Rs 1.20 crore to reach the US. The Haryana Police has registered about 20 criminal cases across the state against the travel agents and a few accused have also been arrested.

Train going from Ambala to Delhi derails in Haryanas Karnal, no casualties reported

A passenger train going from Ambala to Delhi today afternoon suddenly got derailed in Karnal, Haryana today, causing fear and panic on the incident site. As of now, no loss to life or property has been reported. As per the sources, a coach of the train suddenly derailed near Nilokheri in Karnal. Following which, the train was stopped and all the passengers were evacuated out safely. The train was coming from Ambala towards Karnal, as it started off from the Nilokheri railway station, one of the coaches derailed due to a technical glitch. The passengers were all terrified after the incident. Notably, as one of the train coach derailed from the track, the passengers heard a sound, somewhat like an explosion. Thats when the people realized that the train was actually running on the stones, instead of the track. It was easy to stop the engine as the train was in its initial speed having just left the Nilokheri Railway station. Thus, it was stopped immediately without any loss to life or property and any other harm caused. As the information of the incident was reported, officials from the local police station and Nilokheri railway station reached the spot. They took all the passengers to the railway station. It has been said that the railway line was disrupted since some time and the passengers had to face problems. One of the passengers, Rohit who was present in the train during the time of the accident, said that when the fourth compartment of the train derailed, they heard the sound of an explosion. The rattling sound further scared everybody in the train. At present, the exact reason of the derailing of train is not yet known. Though, the administration has ordered for an investigation. But, the good news is that everyone is safe and no one has been harmed.

Leopard absence triggers eco imbalance in Kambalakonda

Leopards have not been sighted in the Kambalakonda Sanctuary for about 10 years leading experts to conclude that the absence has significantly increased the deer population in the area.

BJP, Congress caught in direct contest for Gurugram, Ambala mayoral polls

The elections to 33 municipal bodies, including eight municipal corporations, are slated for March 2.

Fresh mumps cases reported in in Ambalappuzha, Punnapra

Officials say that only a few students have tested positive for the disease and precautionary measures are being implemented in collaboration with local bodies to prevent the spread of the disease

BJP candidate at Ward 24 in Ambala Sadar wins unopposed

Mayor distributes incentive to 45 class 10 toppers from govt. schools

In addition, funds were given away to kambala organisers, Patla Foundation. Health insurance scheme for MCC staff launched

Damaged Fencing of Kambalakonda Sanctuary Poses a Threat to Deer

Some of the deer looking for food and water are crossing the national highway at night. Because of this, two deer have been killed in the past week.

All 104 deportees entered US in January: Dubai-based agents, Mexico border, Dunki route among common links

CHANDIGARH: The 104 illegal immigrants deported from the United States have revealed a common linkmost entered the US in January this year and were sent through the 'Dunki Route' operated by travel agents in Dubai. These agents were contacted via local sub-agents in India, including some in Delhi and the UK. Sources said officials at Amritsar International Airport questioned the deportees, who arrived handcuffed on a special US military plane . The returnees shared details of their ordeal and provided names of agents to whom they had paid large sums of money. A few who were deported said they went through agents based in Delhi and the UK, an official stated. Among them, 29-year-old Mandeep Singh from Chohla Sahib, Taran Taran district, left for Spain two and a half years ago. Though he was doing well there, he decided to move to the US. He contacted the same agent who had facilitated his Spain entry and paid Rs 1 crore to reach the US. He first travelled to Dubai on a visa for Serbia and then flew via Armenia to Serbia. From there, he reached Tijuana, Mexico. The agent repeatedly assured me of a smooth passage. I had asked the agent to send me before the US election results, as one knew Donald Trump will win, Mandeep said. India may be able to lodge complaint with UN body over deporting of immigrants in shackles: Legal expert After walking more than 100 kilometres through the jungle, he managed to enter the US but was soon detained by border patrol officials. Robin Handa (26) from Ismailabad, Kurukshetra, Haryana, reached the US on January 22 after a seven-month journey that began on July 24 last year. His parents sold one acre of land to arrange Rs 43 lakh for the agent. However, he was arrested at the border, detained in a camp, and deported in handcuffs and chains without any statement being recorded. Aakash (20) from Kalron village, Karnal, Haryana, paid Rs 72 lakh after his family sold land. He entered the US via the Mexico border on January 26, only to be arrested by border patrol. Khushpreet Singh (18) from Ismailabad, Kurukshetra, who studied up to Class VIII, paid Rs 45 lakh to take the same route. Jitesh Kumar from Ambala, son of a retired police official, entered the US on January 19 but was soon arrested. He, too, had paid Rs 45 lakh and took six months to reach the US. Anuj Rawal from Rishpur village, Panipat, Haryana, paid Rs 40 lakh to an agent, selling one acre of land and taking a loan to fund his journey. He left India four months ago, stayed in Dubai for a month, and then continued his journey. I spent about three weeks in Panama forests, then stayed for a month in Mexico. As soon as I entered the US, I was caught. I was jailed for four days before being deported on the fifth day, he recounted. Ankit from Farmana village, Sonepat, paid Rs 50 lakh after his family sold three bighas of land. A Class XII pass-out, he left Mumbai on November 5, travelling through the Netherlands, Guyana, Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia before crossing the Panama jungle in three days. India's 'uncooperative' tag adding to pressure from US on illegal immigration He continued through Honduras and Mexico, finally reaching the US via the Tijuana border, where he was arrested and held in custody for a month before deportation. Akashdeep Singh (23) paid Rs 62 lakh to a Dubai-based agent. His journey began on July 6 last year when he travelled to Dubai on a tourist visa. From there, my Dunki route started, he said, recounting his journey through Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala, and Mexico before entering the US on January 24, where he was arrested. Ajaydeep Singh (21) paid Rs 45 lakh to a Delhi-based agent, who sent him to Guyana on a tourist visa on July 27 last year. He entered the US on January 22 and was arrested. Daler Singh from Salempura village, Amritsar, reached the US on January 15, but was arrested and taken to a detention centre in San Diego. His journey began on August 15 last year. The deportations highlight the growing network of illegal immigration routes operated through international agents, with desperate migrants risking their lives and families selling property to finance their journeys. Restraints used since 2012, engaging with US to ensure deportees are not mistreated: Jaishankar

Dreams turn into misery: Families of US deportees recount horror of 'dunki' routes

KURUKSHETRA: With dreams of a bright future and a better life for their families back home, youths from Haryana's Kurukshetra district broke the bank to pay agents to help them settle in the US. They traversed treacherous routes, crossing several rivers and forests while facing extortion and getting roughed up, to reach the US. But their American Dream turned into a nightmare as they were handcuffed by US authorities and deported. Recounting the horror faced by 27-year-old Robin Handa, his father Manjit Singh said his son travelled across Guyana, Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador and Guatemala, crossed a sea and passed through jungles, staying hungry for days, to reach the Mexico-US border. Handa, who studied till class 12, left his native Ismailabad village in Kurukshetra district on July 18 last year and by the time he reached the US border, he had paid Rs 45 lakh to different agents while his mobile phone was also snatched, his father claimed. He was handed over to the immigration mafia in Mexico and they tortured him for money. Here he gave them Rs 20 lakh, Singh said. Countries are 'obligated' to take back illegal immigrants: Jaishankar speaks on deportations by US in Rajya Sabha The distraught father of two said that his elder son had gone to Australia for studies and the younger one was insistent on going to America. With the dreams of an improved financial condition in ruins, Singh now blames the travel agent for defrauding them with the false promise of getting Handa settled in the US. Robin Handa was among the first batch of 104 Indians who were deported by the US. A C-17 Globemaster aircraft of the US military carrying these illegal immigrants from various states landed at Amritsar airport on Wednesday, as part of a crackdown the Donald Trump administration resolved to carry out when it was sworn in last month. Of these illegal immigrants, 33 each were from Haryana and Gujarat, 30 from Punjab, three each from Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, and two from Chandigarh. Government plans new law to facilitate safe overseas migration amid US deportations Superintendent of Police, Kurukshetra, Varun Singla said out of the 33 deportees from Haryana, fourteen are from Kurukshetra district. Khushpreet Singh (18), a resident of Chammukalan village in the district, spent Rs 40 lakh to reach the US. His father Jaswant Singh had arranged the money by mortgaging his farm land. Around 15 days ago, we received a call from Khushpreet that he had reached the US border and would cross it soon, he said. After that, we lost communication with him. The family came to know about his deportation only when he reached Amritsar onboard the US military plane. Though relieved that Khushpreet has reached home safely, the family is saddled with debt and stares at a bleak future. A 28-year-old deportee from Ambala, who returned to his village on Wednesday night, shared his sufferings during his travel to the US. On the condition of anonymity, he said that his family spent Rs 40 lakh to facilitate his journey to America. The money was arranged by selling a part of an agricultural land, he said. But the journey was not smooth. The agent took him through 'dunki routes', crossing several rivers and forests to reach the US border. He, however, got caught at the US border 15 days ago. He strongly advised youths not to adopt any illegal means to go aboard.

Railway Cops Raid Shatabdi Express In Ambala, Seize Gold Worth Rs 50 Lakh Gold, Rs 7.5 Lakh In Cash

Ambala Cantt RPF in-charge Javed Khan said that intensive checks are ongoing due to the upcoming Delhi polls. The GRP received intel on illicit materials being smuggled via VIP trains and acted on it

Haryana Minister Vij attacks state government, CM Saini; accuses BJP of working against him

CHANDIGARH: Not all is well within the BJP in the Jatland, once again, as Haryana Energy, Transport and Labour Minister Anil Vij attacked his own state government and CM Nayab Singh Saini in a post on X. In the post, he accused party leaders of working against him during the recent assembly elections, besides demanding state party president Mohan Lal Badolis resignation over gang rape allegations against him. Vij wrote in an X post that the same party workers who were in a picture of Ashish Tayal with CM Saini had been spotted with Chitra Sarwara, the opposing candidate, during the assembly elections. He questioned, What is this relationship called? Tayal is still Nayab Sainis best friend, so the question arises who made him oppose BJP candidate? Vij had earlier announced that he would start an agitation against his government if the works of the people of Ambala Cantonment were affected. He had earlier claimed that officials did not follow his directions, following which he had also stopped holding janta darbars. While talking to media on Sunday at Gohana in Sonipat, he asked how someone accused of rape could hold meetings with women in the party, referring to state party president Mohan Lal Badoli. Some time back, Vij had demanded that Badoli should resign from the post of state party president till the Himachal Police concluded its investigation, as the allegations against him were very serious and that he was sure the BJP high command would soon take some action. On his visit to Rohtak on Sunday he said, Everything can be taken away from me, but my seniority cannot be snatched. I have been elected MLA for the seventh time. He said this in reference to the recent remarks made by CM Saini. Vij said, It has been over 100 days since I raised the issue on an open platform that officers worked against me during the elections. Now, it does not matter whether someone has been shifted or not. I have not taken an official house, but I have only an official car. If it is taken away, my supporters have already said they will buy one for me. No one can snatch my MLA-ship, as I was elected by the people. It makes no difference to me. Vij further added that he wants the party and the state government to work properly and CM Saini should listen to the ministers, MLAs and the public. Agriculture Minister Shyam Singh Rana had called me up some ten days and said that officers in Yamunanagar were now listening to him. It is nice if the officers have started listening to him (Rana) now, he said.

BJP panel alleges big conspiracy in Ambedkar statue vandalism in Amritsar

AMRITSAR: The controversy surrounding the attempted vandalism of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar's statue in Amritsar continues to escalate, with a six-member panel formed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) visited the city on Sunday to probe the incident. The panel termed the act a ig conspiracy, hinting at the involvement of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). The delegation was led by BJP's Rajya Sabha MP and former Director General of Police of Uttar Pradesh, Brij Lal. After visiting the site of the damaged statue, he strongly condemned the act, calling it an unacceptable attack on the legacy of Babasaheb Ambedkar. The incident that occurred on January 26 is extremely unfortunate. Protests against it have erupted across the country, and opposition to it has been expressed in various states. However, neither AAPs national convener Arvind Kejriwal , nor Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, has visited Amritsar to address the issue. Kejriwal is a habitual liar and the biggest opponent of the Constitution and Babasaheb, Lal alleged. He further claimed that the act was not carried out by a single individual but was part of a larger conspiracy. This is not the work of one person; this is a well-planned conspiracy. The Aam Aadmi Party also seems to be involved in this, having created a state of lawlessness in Punjab. This incident will not be tolerated, and we will conduct a thorough investigation, he asserted. Political blame game in Punjab after Ambedkar statue was vandalised Expressing doubts over the Punjab governments ability to ensure a fair probe, Lal stated that the BJPs panel would prepare an independent investigation report and submit it to the central government. We do not believe the Amritsar administration or Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann will conduct a proper investigation. I have firsthand knowledge of the internal situation in Punjab, including the recent blasts in police stations, as I have been part of the police force myself, he said. When asked about the timeline for submitting their report, Lal responded that it would be completed soon. The other panel members included BJP Scheduled Caste Morcha national president Lal Singh Arya, former Union minister Som Parkash, national spokesperson Guruprakash Paswan, Uttar Pradesh minister Aseem Arun, and BJP leader from Ambala, Banto Dev Kataria. The delegation also paid floral tributes to Ambedkar at his statue in Amritsar before commencing their probe. On January 26, Punjab Police arrested Akash Singh, a resident of Dharamkot in Moga district, for allegedly attempting to damage the Ambedkar statue at the Town Hall on Heritage Street, which leads to the Golden Temple. A video of the incident went viral on social media, showing a man climbing atop the statue using a steel ladder while carrying a hammer. He was seen repeatedly striking the statue and also damaging the symbolic Constitution book that is part of the monument. The incident has sparked nationwide outrage, with political parties trading blame. The investigation into the matter remains ongoing.

Hindu Mahasabha celebrates Gandhi's assassination, honours Godse

MEERUT: The Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha on Thursday honoured Nathuram Godse, the man who killed Mahatma Gandhi on this day in 1948. Godse, allegedly linked with the Hindu Mahasabha, had shot Gandhi dead at a prayer meeting at Birla House in Delhi. He was hanged in an Ambala jail in 1949. Hindu Mahasabha members gathered at the 'Amar Martyr Nathuram Godse Nana Apte Dham,' a location tied to the right wing outfit, where they hailed Godse for the assassination. Pandit Ashok Sharma, a leader of the Mahasabha and founder of the Nana Apte Dham, led the event, which saw a havan puja and a recital of Hanuman Chalisa. The ceremony was purportedly aimed at emoving the soul of Karamchand Gandhi, and eliminating Gandhism from India. Sharma demanded that the Indian government revoke Mahatma Gandhi's title as the Father of the Nation. The Mahasabha also announced plans to honour the families of Nathuram Godse and Narayan Nana Apte, also associated with Gandhi's assassination. The programme concluded with the distribution of sweets among supporters. The Hindu Mahasabha, founded in 1915 byMadan Mohan Malviya emerged as a distinct party under the leadership of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, who was accused in the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi.

Survival swimming training to be launched in Kerala schools

The initiative, Swimsafe, will be piloted in two government UP schools at Ambalathara and Poojappura in Thiruvananthapuram and is expected to begin in the first week of February

Hanmakonda: 13 Labourers Injured as RTC Bus Hits Auto Rickshaw in Ambala

Hanumakonda: Thirteen labourers were injured when an RTC bus collided with an auto rickshaw on Monday. The incident occurred at Ambala in Kamalapur mandal. Three of the injured are reported to be in critical condition. The police have arrived at the scene and have transported the injured to MGM Hospital in Warangal for treatment. A case has been registered.

BSP Leader Harbilas Singh Rajjumajra Shot Dead in Haryana's Naraingarh

Ambala-based BSP leaders have demanded that the police should make all efforts to nab the accused at the earliest.

BSP leader Harbilas Singh Rajjumajra shot dead by armed assailants in Haryana's Naraingarh

AMBALA: A Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) leader from Haryana's Ambala was shot dead by armed assailants in Naraingarh, police said on Saturday. Police stated that BSP leader Harbilas Singh Rajjumajra was accompanied by two friends, Puneet and Gugal, when the attack occurred while they were in their car on Friday evening. Puneet also sustained bullet injuries. After the attack, they were rushed to PGIMER, Chandigarh, where Harbilas succumbed to his injuries late at night, while Puneet was reported to be out of danger. Police said the attackers have so far not been identified. Naraingarh SHO Lalit Kumar reached the crime scene to begin the investigation. Superintendent of Police, Ambala, S S Bhoria, said that a police team has been formed to apprehend the assailants. Ambala-based BSP leaders have demanded that the police make every effort to apprehend the accused as soon as possible. Rajjumajra had unsuccessfully contested the assembly election from Naraingarh last year.

Orchid farmers in Keralas Thiruvananthapuram gear up for lucrative business as Valentines Day approaches, wedding season peaks

Orchid farms in the capital district are concentrated mainly on the suburbs of Neyyattinkara, Kallambalam, Navaikulam, Puthenthope and Nedumangadu

Madurai tungsten mining: Centre decides to annul auction of mineral block at Nayakkarpatti

The Government of Indias decision followed a meeting of the traditional Ambalakarar community leaders from Madurai district with Union Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy in New Delhi on January 22