Petition in HC: Withdraw Punjab cops from Bhakra headworks, obstructing water
6.2LMT wheat procured in Amritsar: DC
Lovepreet Singhs family threatens to go on fast unto death over police inaction in his murder case
Nangal to be developed as world-class tourist destination, says min
Indira ordered greatest surgical strike: Warring hits back at BJP over Channi
Water dispute makes oppn rally behind Haryana CM: Mann restorting to unconstitutional moves
Dubai-based NGO comes to aid of Jagdev Kalan accident victims family
Mann vows to safeguard Punjabs water resources, farmer interests
HC directs Punjab to provide security to Bikram Singh Majithia based on MHAs report
Punjab overdrawing water: Saini; AAP accuses Haryana CM of manipulating data
Water dispute a conspiracy by centre, claims farmer body
Varinder Kumar appointed special DGP human rights in Punjab Police reshuffle
HC: Illegal religious structures in housing colony must go
Water dispute: Haryana spreading false claims, say Pb ministers
Inadequate canal supply, tubewells dry: Water crisis worsens in Haryana
HC attaches Punjabi varsity registrars salary over delayed retirement benefits
Citing seven-day notice rule, Punjab boycotts BBMB meeting over water-sharing row with Haryana
CHANDIGARH: A day after the BJP-led Union Government advised the AAP-led Punjab Government to implement the Bhakra Beas Management Boards (BBMB) order to release an additional 4,500 cusecs of water from the Bhakra Dam to Haryana over the next eight days to meet the urgent water needs of the state, Punjab did not participate in the BBMB meeting held today. Instead, it sent a letter requesting that the meeting be postponed. Sources said that in the letter to the BBMB chairman, the state government stated that a special session of the Punjab Assembly has been convened on Monday (May 5), during which the BBMB's decision to allocate 4,500 cusecs of additional water to Haryana would be discussed. As such, it could not participate in the meeting. The officials of the state government are currently preoccupied with preparations for the assembly session. The Water Resources Department further stated that a seven-day notice is mandatory before convening a BBMB meeting, as per Section 7 of the 1976 Regulations, and demanded adherence to proper procedures. It is respectfully requested that the meeting may kindly be adjourned. The Punjab government has called a special session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on May 5 amid the water-sharing dispute with Haryana, the letter read. Not a drop of excess water from Bhakra dam: Punjab parties unite to block release to Haryana The state government also pointed out that, as per BBMB regulations, a notice of no less than seven days is required for holding a special meeting. Subsequently, another notice was issued on April 29 for the April 30 meeting. In both cases, the provisions of Regulation 3 of the 1976 Regulations were not followed. Under the circumstances, the decisions taken in both meetings are therefore not in accordance with the law. It is requested that the meeting proposed on May 3 be adjourned, the letter added. Meanwhile, in a meeting held yesterday in Delhi and headed by Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, the Punjab Government was advised to release the water. Punjab Water Resources and Soil and Water Conservation Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal said that the Punjab Government boycotted the BBMB meeting. Terming the meeting completely unconstitutional and illegal, Goyal said that proper protocols had been violated in the scheduling of the 255th Special Meeting. Under Regulation 3 of the 1976 Regulations, a seven-day notice is mandatory before scheduling a BBMB meeting, he said. Goyal pointed out that the recent BBMB meetings held on April 28 and April 30 were also convened without adhering to the mandatory notice period. Notices for these meetings were issued merely a day before the scheduled dateson April 27 and April 29, respectivelyrendering any decisions taken during these meetings legally questionable. The BBMB regulates water distribution from the Bhakra, Pong, and Ranjit Sagar dams. Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan are the partner states that meet their requirements for various purposes, including irrigation, from the Bhakra and Pong dams. The board decides the annual quota of water supply to the three partner statesPunjab, Haryana, and Rajasthanfor a yearly cycle from May 21 to May 21 each year. 'Illegal, inhuman': All-party meet in Haryana asks Punjab government to release water unconditionally
Shimla municipal commissioner court orders demolition of two more floors of Sanjauli mosque
CHANDIGARH: The Court of the Municipal Commissioner has ordered the demolition of two additional floors of the mosque in the Sanjauli area of Shimla, following a similar order issued last year for the demolition of three floors of the same mosque. This decision was made after the Waqf Board failed to present the mosques revenue records during the court hearing. The Waqf Boards lawyer argued that the mosque originally existed before 1947 and was rebuilt after being demolished. However, Commissioner Bhupender Kumar Attri questioned why the necessary permissions, including architectural plans, were not obtained from the municipal corporation for the reconstruction. MC Commissioner Attri ruled that the mosque had been built without the required approvals, including a building permit, a no-objection certificate, and a sanctioned map, all in violation of municipal regulations. He ordered the demolition of the lower two floors, in addition to the three floors previously ordered to be demolished in October last year. VHP warns of mass movement if Sanjauli mosque is not demolished in 15 days Jagat Pal, the lawyer representing local residents who had sought the demolition of the mosque, stated that the Waqf Board failed to produce documents proving ownership of the land and the sanctioned building plan. Following this, the Court of the Municipal Commissioner, Bhupender Kumar Attri, passed the demolition order. There is also a related matter pending before the Himachal Pradesh High Court, which is scheduled for hearing on May 8. Earlier, on October 5 last year, the Commissioners Court had ordered the demolition of three floors of the Sanjauli mosque, he said. Advocate B. S. Thakur, representing the Waqf Board, said that a detailed order is still awaited. The Commissioners Court has pronounced the order, holding that the construction at the mosque site was illegal. The Sanjauli Mosque Committee had demolished the original mosque and erected a new structure without obtaining the required permissions from the concerned authorities, including the Municipal Corporation and the Estate Office. The court has not commented on the ownership of the land, which belongs to the Himachal Pradesh Waqf Board. We are waiting for the detailed order to decide the next course of action, he said. The Himachal Pradesh High Court had directed the Municipal Commissioner to decide the case within three months, by May 8. The Commissioners Court passed the order after hearing both parties.
All-party meet in Haryana asks Punjab government to release water 'unconditionally'
CHANDIGARH: The stand-off between Punjab and Haryana over water sharing intensified on Saturday with an all-party meeting in Haryana asking the AAP government in the neighbouring state to allow the release of water from the Bhakra dam unconditionally. This came a day after an all-party meeting in Punjab backed the state government's refusal to release more water to BJP-ruled Haryana. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, after chairing the all-party meeting on Saturday, hit out at the Punjab government, saying not following the Bhakra Beas Management Board's direction to release water was unconstitutional, inhuman and an attack on the federal structure of the Constitution. The all-party meeting decided that the Mann government should release water immediately and unconditionally, Saini said at a press conference flanked by leaders from various parties who attended the meet. Centre directs Punjab to implement BBMB order to release 4500 cusecs of water to Haryana A resolution was passed at the meeting in which an appeal was made to the Punjab government that the decisions of Bhakra Beas Management Board's (BBMB) technical committee dated April 23 and another one on April 30 should be implemented forthwith unconditionally. While vowing to protect the state's rights, Saini asserted that our path is not of confrontation, but of cooperation and urged the Bhagwant Mann government to understand the pain of the neighbour. They should immediately remove the inhuman, unconstitutional, illegal and inappropriate bar on the release of water. We resolve to ensure it and the construction of the SYL canal. We are ready to fight any battle, Saini said. They have cut drinking water. All parties have expressed a strong reaction to this. All parties said they will work unitedly to protect state's interests, not just as Haryana political parties, but as Indians who have deep faith in federal structure and brotherhood, said Saini and urged the people of both states to maintain peace. Among the leaders present in the meeting were Haryana's Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Shruti Choudhry, Agriculture Minister Shyam Singh Rana, Energy Minister Anil Vij, State BJP chief Mohan Lal Badoli, Congress's Bhupinder Singh Hooda, state Congress chief Udai Bhan, JJP's Dushyant Chautala, INLD's Rampal Majra and AAP's Sushil Gupta. The Bhagwant Mann government is stopping Haryana's water in an unconstitutional manner. Mann has taken oath under the Constitution, but he is doing unconstitutional work, Saini alleged. This water belongs to the entire country. Water-sharing agreement is there between states. So, water does not belong to any one state. Even today the problem is not as big as is being projected by the Mann government, he said. Haryana govt says Punjab CM's claim 'false', will approach SC amid water row Haryana had been getting its full share of water even in 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 when the water level of the dam was quite low, said Saini. Haryana never sought more than its share. BBMB, which is an independent body, has decided Haryana's quota, but the Mann government has refused to agree with it. This is not just injustice with Haryana, but a direct attack on India's federal structure by the Mann government, Saini said. In a federal system, every state has the responsibility to respect the interests of neighbouring states, but this attitude of the Mann government is setting a ad example, he said. If Mann's government remains adamant, then under the provisions in our Constitution, we will protect our rights. But we want to say that our path is not of confrontation, but of cooperation. We appeal to the Mann government that it should adopt the path of love and brotherhood with Haryana, he said. Haryana wants to move shoulder-to-shoulder with Punjab, but for this, they also have to understand the pain of their neighbour. To protect our country's federal structure is our collective responsibility, said Saini. A fresh row had erupted over the issue of water sharing between the two neighbours, with the Punjab government refusing to release more water to the BJP-ruled Haryana. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had asserted that his government would not allow the release of more water to the neighbouring state, claiming it has already utilised 103 per cent of its allocated share. Mann had said the Punjab government, as a humanitarian gesture, had already generously allotted 4,000 cusecs of water daily to Haryana since April 6. He had also hit out at the BBMB for its decision to release extra water to Haryana, saying such obbery of Punjab's rights will not be tolerated and that the board has no right to dictate matters related to his state. The BBMB regulates water distribution from Bhakra, Pong and Ranjit Sagar dams. Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan are the partnering states that meet their water requirement for different purposes, including irrigation, from Bhakra and Pong dams. Punjab heightens dam security amid water release dispute with Haryana
CHANDIGARH: Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, the 'High Priest' of Akal Takht (the highest temporal seat of the Sikhs), on Friday issued a directive prohibiting filmmakers and artists from making movies or any animated versions using artificial intelligence (AI) that depict historic Sikh figures, stating that such portrayals violate Sikh principles. The directive comes amid Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar announcing his plans to make a film on the life of Sikh martyr Hari Singh Nalwa. Jathedar Gargaj clarified that such a film would not be permitted until the Akal Takht announces a concrete policy outlining the dos and donts for such representations. The directions were issued during a special meeting held at Akal Takht Sahib, attended by Sikh intellectuals and representatives. Jathedar Gargaj stated that previous orders of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) on the matter would remain in force. The SGPC has already issued directives imposing a blanket ban on the depiction of Sikh Gurus and their families in any film, documentary, or songwhether by actors or in animated form. Gargaj pointed out that the Religious Advisory Committee of the SGPC had passed a resolution in 1934 strictly prohibiting the portrayal of Sikh Gurus and their family members. Similar resolutions were adopted in 1940, 2003, 2015, and 2022. The meeting was convened following the release of the film Akaal by Punjabi singer Gippy Grewal, which drew objections from Sikh organisations. The gathering included Sikh intellectuals, scholars, Panthic personalities, and artists who discussed the implications of films, animated productions, and AI-generated content related to Sikh Gurus, historical Sikh warriors, and Sikh history more broadly. Jathedar Gargaj later stated that the suggestions received during the meeting would be carefully reviewed. A committee will soon be formed to evaluate these suggestions in line with Sikh principles. A draft policy will be prepared in collaboration with the SGPC. Referring to Akshay Kumars recent statement expressing his desire to make a film on Hari Singh Nalwa, Jathedar Gargaj reiterated that such a project would not be allowed. He emphasized that Nalwa, who was martyred in the Battle of Jamrud, is a revered figure in the Sikh community, and making films about Sikh martyrs is strictly prohibited. A statement issued by the Akal Takht Secretariat noted that scholars expressed concerns over how current technological trends pose significant challenges to Sikh identity, traditions, and philosophy. It stressed the importance of preserving and promoting traditional modes of religious engagement, such as oral traditions, Gurdwaras, and Sikh institutions. Jathedar Gargaj concluded by stating that all scholars present at the meeting unanimously agreed that the Sikh community cannot permit its heroes and martyrs to be used for commercial purposes. He emphasized that the Khalsa Panth remains clear and united in its position: no films should be made featuring representations of Sikh Gurus, their family members, Sahibzadas (sons of Gurus), Sikh martyrs, revered personalities, or Sikh religious ceremonies.
Tourists cancel Kashmir bookings, shift to Himachal after Pahalgam attack fallout
CHANDIGARH: Tourists now prefer vacationing in Himachal Pradesh over Jammu and Kashmir after the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 persons were killed. Approximately 15-20% of both domestic and international bookings have shifted from Kashmir to Himachal's popular destinations including Manali, Shimla and Dharamshala; however, the surge in footfall is not as expected as tourists have adopted a 'wait-and-watch' policy amid prevailing uncertainties and hostilities between India and Pakistan. Ashwani Bamba, president of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Kangra, told TNIE that, after the terror attack, tour operators and potential tourists inquired for booking in Himachal and Uttarakhand and that they expected the surge to be significant. But, actually only 15-20% of tourists shifted from J&K to Himachal and the rest probably prefer to not venture out during this summer season owing to the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. Thus, the occupancy of hotels across the state at present is around 40% only, the same as last year. Bookings that were shifted were that of tourist groups traveling from Maharashtra, Gujarat and other states, not the immediate bookings in Kashmir which had gotten cancelled, he said. Bamba added that, in Himachal, Manali had the maximum number of shifted bookings at about 20%, while Dharamsala, Dalhousir and Shimla had much fewer. He said that advance bookings had already been made for the IPL matches in Dharamsala. Kashmir tourism stumbles after Pahalgam terror attack, but industry leaders remain hopeful Mohinder Seth, president of Himachal Pradesh Tourism Stakeholders Association, said that tourists are adopting a wait and watch policy due to India-Pakistan tensions. On everyone's mind, there is only one question: What will the Union government do in the coming days? The common is just waiting for that. There were a lot of inquiries after the unfortunate incident as people got diverted from the Kashmir Valley, but the actual number of bookings are very less. In May, generally, there is about 30-40% occupancy across the state, after May 15 we are expecting that it may touch 60-70% as advance bookings are already been done, he said. This tragedy not only upended the tourism sector in Kashmir, but has also impacted the neighboring states of Himachal and Uttarakhand. Ex-President of Manali Hotel Association Mukesh Thakur said that after terror attack there was lot of expectation that the tourist rush will shift to Himachal and lot of queries had also come. But the number of booking which are less as, first, the tourists have to get their booking cancelled and take a refund and then again they will think where to go. Already as predicted that the summers will be hot this year so already there are lot of booking done in advance as far as Manali is concerned. At present around 30-40% occupancy in the hotels here and after May 15 as summer intensifies the occupancy is expected to touch more than 80% as already people have booked. Also is expected that in coming days more online bookings will be done. The tourism industry contributes 7.78 per cent to the GDP of the hill state. As per the Economic Survey report for Himachal Pradesh for 2024-25, the number of domestic visitors increased to 1.8 crore in 2024 from 56.32 lakh in 2021 while the surge in foreign tourists was 83,000 in 2024 from 5000 in 2021. On the other hand the tourism industry contributes 7.2 per cent to the GDP of Jammu and Kashmir.
'Will cause drinking water crisis': Bhupinder Singh Hooda on Haryana-Punjab water dispute
Bhupinder Singh Hooda urged a special Assembly session and all-party meeting to tackle the escalating water dispute between Punjab and Haryana, intensified by the BBMB's directive for water release. Haryana CM Saini criticized Mann's opposition, emphasizing the critical need for water and cautioning against politicizing the issue. Punjab plans a special Assembly session to propose solutions.
Business Wire India World Education Summit 2025 AsiaTodaysuccessfullyhostedthe 15th WorldEducationSummit2025 on 30th April at Hotel The Park, New Delhi. Thesummitwas graced by esteemed guests, including Raj Bhushan Choudhary, Honble Minister of State of Jal Shakti, Government of India; Nilesh Ronil Kumar, Counsellor, High Commission of the Republic of Fiji; and Mohan Singh Bisht, Deputy Speaker of Delhi Legislative Assembly. During theWorldEducationSummit2025, Raj Bhushan Chaudhary, Honble Minister of State, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India, stated, The Modi government has taken several well-planned steps to turn the vision of a developed India into reality. Special focus has been given to initiatives like the NewEducationPolicy and Digital India, which are preparing the youth to compete globally. At the same time, development is reaching every corner of the country through schemes such as support for small and medium enterprises, women empowerment, the Swachh Bharat Mission, Jal Jeevan Mission, and Har Ghar Nal Yojana. Throughout the event, educationists engaged in meaningful discussions on integrating AI into classrooms, developing student-centric learning models, and preparing educators for a tech-driven future. Speakers emphasized the need to embrace innovative teaching methods and ensure that teachers are equipped with the right tools and training to keep pace with technological advancements. Pradeep Choudhry is the active CEO of Asia Today Media, said that Education is the pillar to success, and it was an honour to have the educationists from all over India on a single platform who are working tremendously for the bright future of the youth. Education plays a crucial role in ones life and thats what makes you a good human. A special felicitation ceremony was held to recognize educators and institutions that have made significant contributions to the field ofeducation. From digital learning initiatives to inclusiveeducationmodels, thesummitcelebrated impactful work being done to transform student experiences and outcomes. The summit felicitated around Twenty educational institutions and leaders across the nation, including SRM University AP - One of The Best University With Excellent Placement of The Year-India, Johnson Grammar School ICSE & ISC Mallapur - Best Private Co-Education School of The Year-Telangna, Admissiongyan Education Consultancy - Most Trusted German Education Consultant in India, International School of Technology and Sciences For Women - One of The Best Engineering College for Women-Andhra Pradesh, Sri Siddhartha Institute of Management Studies - Most Trusted Institute of Management- Karnataka, Rathods IAS Academy - Best UPSC IAS Coaching Institute In Hyderabad, Mr. P. Venkata Ramesh - Academic Advisor of The Year, Alphores Women's Degree & Pg College - Best Womens Degree College With Academic Excellence in Telangana, Little Flower Group of Institutions - Best Group of Institute With Academic Excellence of The Year, Mere Nanhe Kadam - Best Pre-School in Jharkhand, Satluj Public School - Most Trusted Group of School of The Year, Pingaksh Foundation- Excellence in Social Work-Education, Burdwan Holy Child School - Best School With Academic Excellence of The Year-West Bengal, Ark Reflections IAS By Madhu Ram- Best UPSC Coaching Centre in Hyderabad, Sri Institute of Management Mba College - Best Rural Area Mba College in Odisha, KIIT World School - Best School for Imparting Quality Education in Delhi, Mr. Alok - Most Admired Education Consultant-Delhi, Shoobhi Foundation- Admired Computer Training Institute For Poor Student in Delhi, Shivalik Institute Of Paramedical Technology- Best Paramedical College in Chandigarh. About Asia Today Media Asia Today Media is a dynamic global media and analytical company providing research, analysis and rating services. We have been providing state of the art market research, rating and analysis for organizations of all sizes.
Women distribute sweets after Bathinda police demolish house of drug peddler
Bathinda police demolished properties of alleged drug peddlers, Ramesh Sahni and Kewal Singh, following numerous complaints from local women about rampant drug availability. SSP Amneet Kondal led the operation, razing Sahni's house in Beant Nagar and Singh's in Dhobiana Basti.
Not a drop of excess water from Bhakra dam: Punjab parties unite to block release to Haryana
CHANDIGARH: Cutting across political lines, all Punjab parties on Friday unanimously decided not to spare a single drop of additional water to Haryana from the Bhakra dam. Following an all-party meet over sharing of water with Haryana as per the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) order, leaders said an all-party delegation is likely to meet Prime Minister Modi over the standoff. The two hour meeting chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann was attended by the representatives of the seven Punjab political parties who unanimously backed the state government to decide the next course of action for safeguarding Punjabs rights on its waters. After the meeting, the CM asserted that the order to release water to Haryana was being forced upon Punjab and all parties are together on the issue of safeguarding the states waters. He said after hearing the views of all parties, the government will now prepare a plan of action. Let me reiterate that there is no politics and no different political line on the issue of safeguarding the states waters and we are all together... they will later seek time from the Prime Minister. Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar and senior BJP leader and former minister Manoranjan Kalia reiterated that Punjab had no water to spare for Haryana and this injustice will not be tolerated, while saying confrontation should have been avoided. The BJP state unit would support the state government on the issue, they said.
American woman accuses bank manager of Rs 2.5 cr fraud, says FIR not filed
Andheri-based American national, 75, says cops not filing FIR against bank wealth manager who hoodwinked her into buying property worth Rs 2.5 crore in Chandigarh and Noida; accused says her claims are baseless
Punjab parties one on forcible release of extra water to Haryana
Centre directs release of extra water to Hry; BBMB to meet today
BBMB control dispute highlights concerns over authority of water and power ministries
JJP general secretary Digvijay Chautala blames AAP, BJP govts negligence for water crisis in Haryana
NGT disposes of plea against advancing paddy transplantation date
Inclement weather threatens large stocks of unsold wheat in Punjab mandis
Water crisis: BJP says issue blown out of proportion by Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann-led AAP govt
Wont let Akshay Kumar make film on Sikh martyr Hari Singh Nalwa: Akal Takht jathedar
ASI held for accepting Rs 15K bribe
HC seeks explanation from Punjab, PSPCL over hospital power outages
Pakistan finally opens Wagah gate, over 20 cross over
More buses, rejig of routes on cards to decongest city traffic
Chandigarh MCs compound surcharge move hikes water bill defaults to Rs 106cr
Chandigarh MC hires workers to clean storm water drainage before monsoon
Centre directs Punjab to implement BBMB order to release 4500 cusecs of water to Haryana
CHANDIGARH: The Centre on Friday directed the Punjab government to implement the Bhakra Beas Management Boards (BBMB) decision to release an additional 4,500 cusecs of water from the Bhakra dam to Haryana in the next eight days to meet the urgent water needs of the state. This was announced after a meeting held under the chairmanship of Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan in Delhi to discuss the implementation of the BBMB decision. Haryana govt says Punjab CM's claim 'false', will approach SC amid water row It was also agreed that during the filling period of dams, the BBMB will provide excess water to Punjab to fulfill their additional requirements. The BBMB will immediately convene a meeting of the board to work out the modalities of implementing the release of extra water to Haryana. The meeting was attended by senior officials of the Union government, the BBMB partner states -- Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan -- and the BBMB. The meeting was necessitated after Punjab had consistently refused to release water to Haryana, prompting the Centres intervention.
Haryana govt says Punjab CM's claim 'false', will approach SC amid water row
CHANDIGARH: Amid an escalating row with Punjab over the sharing of water, the Haryana government on Friday announced its decision to approach the Supreme Court over the matter. Haryana Irrigation and Water Resources Minister Shruti Choudhry said that the process to move the Supreme Court has already been initiated. If this issue is not resolved, we will approach the Supreme Court. We have complete records and data on Haryanas water receipt, and all relevant facts will be presented before the court. It is unprecedented that Punjab is withholding the legitimate share of water of Haryana from the Bhakra Dam. This water belongs and is controlled by the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), not Punjab, which allocates water based on the needs of the concerned partner states. This process has been followed for years, she said. Choudhry asked why Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had not raised this issue in previous years when drinking water was allocated to Haryana as per the allocations. The Punjab Chief Ministers claim that Haryana has utilized 103 percent of its allocated water is entirely false. Such misinformation appears to be politically driven, possibly due to their recent electoral defeat in Delhi, she said. She said that during the shutdown of the Bhakra canal system, Haryana had requested the release of 4000 cusecs of water to meet its drinking water needs and to ensure equitable distribution to partner states, including Delhi and Rajasthan, as no water was being received from the Yamuna through the Western Jamuna Canal (WJC). However, Punjab released only 3000 cusecs, which included Delhis share of 1049 cusecs. Given the critical drinking water situation, Haryana reiterated its demand for 4000 cusecs. Subsequently, in the Technical Committee Meeting (TCM) held on April 23, it was agreed that 8500 cusecs of water would be allocated to Haryana from April 24 to May 1 under the Haryana Contact Point for distribution to partner states. Despite the consensus, Punjab did not issue the necessary demand letter to the BBMB, resulting in water shortages in Haryana. Chaudhary further stated that Punjabs assertion that Haryana exhausted its water quota in March 2025 is factually incorrect. Punjab is selectively calculating figures based only on the deficit period. When the full water accounting for 2024 is considered, it clearly shows that Punjab received 9.30 per cent more than its allocated share, while Haryana received 0.198 per cent less. Over the last 20 years, Punjab has received 22.44 per cent more than its share, while Haryana received just 7.67 per cent more, she added. Meanwhile, strongly condemning Punjab leaders for politicizing the water issue, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini advised them not to indulge in petty politics. Punjab is the land of the Gurus, and we bow to them. Work for the welfare of Punjabs people. Haryana was once a part of Punjab and emerged from there. Such low-level politics is not good for anyone, said Saini. He said this while interacting with media persons in Panchkula. Saini said, I assure that if the people of Punjab ever need drinking water, we will install tubewells, extract water from our groundwater, and provide it to them. I guarantee that no person in Punjab will remain thirsty. He said Haryana is only asking for the water it used to receive earlier, not more than that. Water is a natural resource. If politics continues like this, the water will go waste and flow into Pakistan, which has been shedding the blood of our unarmed citizens, said Saini. We are seeking the same SYL water as per the agreement. The Supreme Court has ruled that this is our right, he said. In a letter to Saini earlier this week, Mann said that Punjab does not have a single drop of water to share with any other state. Sources said that CM Saini has called an all-party meeting on the issue on Saturday.
'Resilient and undeterred': Punjabs border villages remain calm amid India-Pakistan tensions
CHANDIGARH : Despite heightened tensions between India and Pakistan after the Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 tourists were killed , life remains largely unaffected in the villages along the Indo-Pak international border in Punjab. The residents continue their daily routines with resilience, even as feelings of anguish, dismay, and uncertainty linger. Farmers are working in their fields as usual, and locals are engaged in their everyday chores. Villagers gather under trees at village chowks, sipping tea, playing cards, and discussing political developments after the Pahalgam attack. Some elders recall past incidents, such as Operation Parakram, when the Army laid landmines along the border and villagers were instructed to evacuate. Speaking to The New Indian Express , Surjit Singh Bhoora, Vice President of the Punjab Border Area Kisan Union, said, The farmers are working as usual in their fields. There is no tension in the border villages. Our relatives call us to ask if everything is fine, and we tell them we are living our lives as normal. He added that residents of border villages yearn for peace, as any escalation affects them the most. If conflict arises, we are the ones who suffer. Our businesses, agriculture, and our childrens education all take a hit, Bhoora explained. Attari-Wagah border completely shut after hundreds cross over; several Pakistani nationals stuck The 553-kilometer India-Pakistan border stretches across six districts in PunjabFerozepur, Fazilka, Tarn Taran, Gurdaspur, Pathankot, and Amritsar. In these areas, villagers remain calm and committed to their daily routines. Subash Sharma, a resident of Bareka village in Fazilka, whose home is about one kilometer from the zero line, said, Life is going on normally. Yes, there's mental pressure about what could happen in the coming days. People call us after watching the news, but children are attending school and we are working in the fields. I have two and a half acres beyond the border fence but before the zero lineno farmers have been allowed there for the last three days as the BSF has closed the gates. I have another 12 acres on this side, where Ive already harvested the wheat crop and am preparing to sell it at the grain market. Naseeb Singh of Palla Magha village in Ferozepur, located two and a half kilometers from the zero line, owns 15 acres of land. He said, There is a strong sentiment across the country demanding retaliation for the Pakistan-sponsored terrorist attack in Pahalgam. But villagers here believe that any conflict would mostly affect the Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir borders, as in previous wars. Life is otherwise normalIve harvested my crop, though it was damaged due to todays rain. Relatives call us daily, worried about war, but were living our lives normally. Another villager recalled that during the Kargil war, people needed a signed slip from the village sarpanch and clearance from the Army to leave the village. Gurdeep Singh of Thaman village in Gurdaspur district, located three kilometers from the international border, said, Weve received no special directions from the Army or BSF. Life is normal here. Life in border villages is different. Other farmers cultivating land beyond the fence and near the zero line said they face many ongoing challenges, such as frequent crop damage by wild animals crossing from Pakistan, labor shortages due to restricted entry hours, limitations on crop height, and an inability to check crops during floods, hailstorms, or other extreme weather events. Even as tensions between the nuclear-armed nations rise, and the summer temperatures soar, the spirit of the border villagers remains steady. Stories from Attari border
Rain, Lightning Strikes Kill 7 In North India; 200 Flights Delayed, J&K Highway Closed
New Delhi/Gurugram/Chandigarh/Lucknow/Shimla, May 2: Torrential rain lashed north India, including the Delhi-NCR, early Friday, leading to at least seven people dying, uprooting over 100 trees, and delaying more than 200 flights. The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was blocked after the rain caused a landslide. A 28-year-old woman and her three children were killed when their house in southwest Delhis Najafgarh area collapsed after a tree fell on it. Police and fire department officers pulled the family out of the rubble and [] The post Rain, Lightning Strikes Kill 7 In North India; 200 Flights Delayed, J&K Highway Closed appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Punjab parties unite to oppose water release to Haryana, seek PM Modi's intervention
CHANDIGARH: In a rare display of political unity, all recognised political parties in Punjab on Thursday unanimously declared that not a single drop of extra water would be given to Haryana from the Bhakra Dam. The decision came after the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) ordered the release of 8,500 cusecs of water to the neighbouring state, triggering tensions. An all-party delegation is now likely to seek an appointment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the issue. The two-hour all-party meeting was convened by the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and chaired by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Representatives of seven recognised political parties were present and extended their full support to the state governments stand on safeguarding Punjabs water rights. Punjab government convenes all-party meeting, special assembly session over Bhakra dam water row Following the meeting, CM Mann said, The decision to release water to Haryana is being forced on Punjab but all parties are together on the issue of safeguarding the states waters. He added that the government will now prepare an agenda based on the views expressed in the meeting and share it with all parties. Let me reiterate that there is no politics and no different political line on the sensitive issue of safeguarding the states waters and we are all together. The Governor has already given approval for convening the session; we will later seek time from the Prime Minister. Mann asserted that Haryana had already exhausted its share of water. On humanitarian grounds, we gave them an additional 4,000 cusecs on April 4. You cannot force Punjabis to give in to this, he said. Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar, along with senior party leader and former cabinet minister Manoranjan Kalia, also expressed strong opposition to the BBMBs decision. Punjab has no water to spare for Haryana and this injustice will not be tolerated, said Jakhar, although he noted that the confrontation could have been avoided. Punjab heightens dam security amid water release dispute with Haryana He added, The state unit of the party is behind the state government on the issue of release of additional water to Haryana, as the neighbouring state had exhausted its allocated share for the September 21May 20 depletion period. Jakhar suggested that an all-party delegation should meet the Prime Minister or Union Home Minister Amit Shah to resolve the issue through negotiations. This was a routine matter which could have been sorted out through talks. I have a record for 23 years, which shows that states have been overdrawing water during the water depletion period. These decisions were taken through discussions, he said, blaming improper handling for the current standoff. Senior Congress leader and former minister Tript Rajinder Singh Bajwa confirmed that all party leaders had backed the governments future course of action. Meanwhile, all political parties have agreed to join the state government representatives in taking up the issue with the Prime Minister. Both Mann and Punjab AAP president Aman Arora confirmed they would seek time from the PM after the special assembly session. There was consensus that any attempt to give water to Haryana will be opposed tooth and nail. Jakhar has been requested to get us time from the PM, said Arora. Senior Shiromani Akali Dal leaders Balwinder Singh Bhunder and Daljit Singh Cheema, who were also present, said all issues related to Punjabs rights, river waters, criteria for the appointment of BBMB chairman, the Dam Safety Act, BSF jurisdiction up to 50 km inside the international border, and the transfer of Chandigarh, should be raised with the Prime Minister. The attempt of BBMB to release water to Haryana by ignoring Punjabs objections is an attack on federalism. We have given our suggestions. The Chief Minister will decide the next course of action, said Cheema. All eyes are now on the special session of the Punjab Assembly, scheduled for May 5, where a resolution on the water issue is expected to be passed.
IPL 2025: You Can Be Fit Only By Eating Home-cooked Food, Says KKR's Ramandeep Singh
Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders batter Ramandeep Singh shared valuable insights into his fitness regimen, nutrition philosophy and daily routines that keep him at peak performance. Growing up in Chandigarh with an international cyclist as a father gave Ramandeep a head start in understanding nutrition. Luckily, I have been blessed with a father who is an international cyclist. So, he has been teaching me a lot about diet from the beginning, Ramandeep revealed in KKR's fitness series 'Train Like a Knight'. This early education emphasised the importance of non-vegetarian food and dairy products, which have remained staples in his diet. The KKR batter revealed that he starts each day with traditional desi ghee, followed by a simple yet nutritious breakfast consisting of 2 whole eggs, 3 egg whites, whole wheat bread and curd. This straightforward approach to nutrition underscores his belief that fitness doesn't require exotic ingredients or complicated meal plans. Perhaps the most striking aspect of Ramandeep's nutrition philosophy is his unwavering commitment to home-cooked meals. You can be fit only by eating home-cooked food. This is what I believe, that whatever you want to eat, cook it at home. You can't be fit by going to fancy restaurants, he emphasised. He advocates for a simple approach to healthy eating that anyone can follow: Sugar, fried food and flour. If you leave these three things, 90% of your food will take care of itself. For those looking to begin their fitness journey, Ramandeep recommends bodyweight exercises like push-ups, squats, and pull-ups - the same exercises he started with as a youngster. If we start early, there are a lot of benefits. When you are in a professional sport, you take very little time to become a professional athlete, he noted. While many fitness enthusiasts focus solely on active training days, Ramandeep places equal importance on recovery. The day we are not working out, we have a recovery day. So on that day, nutrition plays a significant role. The next day you are at 100%, you are peaking. So for that, I think the rest days are more important. His pre-workout routine includes three grams of creatine, while post-workout nutrition focuses on protein with adequate fiber for proper absorption, which he gets from vegetables at dinner. Throughout the interview, Ramandeep emphasised that fitness should be accessible to everyone. For those without gym access, he suggests simple alternatives: You can do sprints because wherever there is space, you can do sprints. 20 meters is enough. Even if you're doing starts, that's really good. He also shared his healthy alternative for satisfying sweet cravings - curd with jaggery and blueberries, which offers nutritional benefits while pleasing the palate. The most important takeaway from Ramandeep's fitness philosophy is his emphasis on consistency and making healthy choices part of daily life. In your day-to-day life, you brush your teeth every day. You bathe every day. So you should eat good food every day. You should train well. He also shared his healthy alternative for satisfying sweet cravings - curd with jaggery and blueberries, which offers nutritional benefits while pleasing the palate. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Article Source: IANS
Centre postpones May 4 talks with Punjab farmers over demand to exclude state government
CHANDIGARH: The Union Government has postponed the scheduled May 4 meeting with Punjab-based farmer unions after the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) and the Sanyukt Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) insisted on excluding representatives of the Punjab government from the discussions. The Centre, in response, urged the farmer leaders to reconsider their stance, emphasising the importance of state participation in a federal setup. A letter in this regard was sent by Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Puran Chandra Kishan, to both KMM and SKM (Non-Political). As you know, state governments have an important role in the federal structure. Therefore, it would be appropriate to include the state government in the meeting. You are requested to reconsider the above decision, so that we can move forward towards a solution through dialogue. Therefore, it is requested that after positive deliberation, you give your consent for the meeting with the participation of the state. The meeting of May 4 is postponed till we get your consent. The date of the next meeting will be decided after receiving information from you, stated the letter. KMM coordinator Sarwan Singh Pandher said they had categorically conveyed their position to the Centre and confirmed that both KMM and SKM (Non-Political) would hold a meeting on May 3 to decide their next course of action. The development follows recent comments by farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who had warned that the unions would be forced to boycott the talks if the Punjab government was included. He cited deep resentment among the farming community over the eviction of protesters from the Shambhu and Khanauri border points on March 19. On April 27, both unions had written to Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, requesting that no state representatives be invited to the proposed meeting. Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann stated that no ministers or officials from his government would attend the talks this time. SKM (Non-Political) and KMM have been staging sit-ins at Shambhu and Khanauri borders since February 13 last year. On March 19, Punjab Police cracked down on the agitators and detained several leaders in Mohali as they were returning from a meeting with a central delegation led by Minister Chouhan in Chandigarh, following the seventh round of discussions.
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann decides not to give extra water to Haryana
In a rare display of unity, Punjab's political parties, including AAP, BJP, Congress, and SAD, convened to oppose the Centre's decision to release additional water to Haryana. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann accused the Centre of attempting to loot Punjab's waters, asserting that the state has no surplus to share. Parties are united to protect Punjab's water rights.
Haryana CM accuses Punjabs AAP govt of playing dirty politics
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Punjab congress hits out at AAP, BJP
Punjab Congress President Raja Warring asserted that Punjab won't allow diversion of even a single drop of extra water to other states, criticizing AAP's protests as mere theatrics. Partap Singh Bajwa accused BJP of injustice towards Punjab's farmers amidst the water dispute with Haryana.
In May-Day function at RCF Kapurthala, employees criticize outsourcing policy
On International Labor Day, the RCF Employees Union in Kapurthala voiced strong concerns about the growing trend of outsourcing within the Rail Coach Factory. Union leaders criticized the government's pro-corporate policies and the privatization of public sector undertakings. Speakers emphasized the importance of working-class unity to combat divisive forces and protect their interests.
Cong MLA Sukhpal Khaira calls BBMB decision 'broad daylight robbery of Punjabs resources'
Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira strongly condemned the BBMB's decision to release water to Haryana, calling it a robbery of Punjab's share amid critical water shortages. He criticized the transfer of a Punjab cadre officer and the appointment of an inexperienced replacement, alleging political manipulation by the BJP-led central government.
Illegal liquor factory busted in Shahzadpur; four arrested, massive seizure made
Haryana police in Ambala busted an illegal liquor factory in Shahzadpur, seizing a large quantity of spurious liquor and materials. Four individuals, Gurpreet Singh, Surinder Singh, Sandeep, and Sachin, were arrested during the raid. The illicit operation was owned by Bittu, who is now being pursued. The police confiscated liquor labeled under various brands, empty bottles, packaging, and sealing machines.
Haryana CM Saini lists benefits of amended Waqf Act for Muslims
CHANDIGARH, May 1: Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Thursday listed several benefits of the Waqf (Amendment) Act for the Muslim community. At a workshop in Panchkula near here, Saini also accused the Congress of misleading Muslims over the provisions of the amended law for vote-bank politics, sources said. The workshop was part of the BJPs fortnight-long public awareness campaign launched on April 20 to publicise the benefits of the Waqf (Amendment) Act and counter the oppositions [] The post Haryana CM Saini lists benefits of amended Waqf Act for Muslims appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
No water to Haryana: Punjab CM; Security stepped up at Nangal dam
CHANDIGARH, May 1: Amid escalating tensions between Punjab and Haryana over sharing of water, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday asserted that his government will not allow the release of more water to the neighbouring state, claiming it has already utilised its share. He also hit out at the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) for its decision to release 8,500 cusecs of water to Haryana and said robbery of Punjabs rights will not be tolerated, and the board has no [] The post No water to Haryana: Punjab CM; Security stepped up at Nangal dam appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Punjab government convenes all-party meeting, special assembly session over Bhakra dam water row
CHANDIGARH: The Punjab Government has called an all-party meeting on Friday and convened a special assembly session on Monday to discuss the issue of Haryana being allocated additional water from the Bhakra Dam by the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB). An emergency meeting of all ministers and MLAs was held this evening, headed by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal, to discuss the emerging situation following the BBMBs order to release 8,500 cusecs of water to Haryana. Mann has convened an all-party meeting tomorrow at Punjab Bhawan, inviting all prominent political parties of the state. He unequivocally stated that Punjabis have the right over every drop of river water and no one can snatch it away. In this context, the Punjab Government has also decided to convene a special session of the state assembly on Monday (May 5). A special resolution on the water issue will be tabled during this session of the Vidhan Sabha. Meanwhile, CM Mann issued a clarion call for all parties to unite and fight to safeguard the interests of Punjab and its people. During the meeting, issues related to the alleged usurping of Punjabs rights by the Union Governmentthrough the unfair allocation of water to Haryana by the BBMBwill be deliberated upon. The meeting is intended to showcase the unity of all political parties in the state on this sensitive issue. Mann said it is high time all political parties rose above parochial considerations and fought this battle vehemently. He reiterated that the state government would not compromise on the issue and would protect Punjabs rights to river waters by all means. He sought full support and cooperation from all political parties in what he described as a war against the repressive, undemocratic, and unfair actions of the Union Government. Earlier in the day, CM Mann, who visited the Nangal Dam accompanied by local MLA and Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains, said they would not allow BBMB to release water beyond Haryanas allotted share. He added that Haryana was already receiving water to meet its drinking water needs. They suddenly demanded 8,500 cusecs of water beyond their quota. We will allow water to flow only from May 21, he said, adding that while Haryana needs water for irrigation, Punjab also needs water to irrigate its fields. We have no extra water, he stated. Mann also asked Punjab BJP President Sunil Jakhar and Union Minister Ravneet Bittu to support Punjab on this issue. He accused the Centre and the Haryana Government of hatching a conspiracy to deprive Punjab of water through the BBMB. On the other hand, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini accused CM Mann of politicizing the issue, alleging that AAP resorts to dirty politics as elections approach. Saini said, The people of Punjab understand that AAP is playing dirty politics. When will they engage in development politics? After Delhi, AAP has realized that the people of Punjab are going to oust them. Mann Sahib should not engage in partisan politics. Citing the example of Bhai Kanhaiya, Saini said, Punjab is the land of saints, and its people used to offer water to everyone. We should take inspiration from them. This is about drinking water. Punjab is our elder brotherwhy create divisions? If Punjab is thirsty, we will give water from our share. Meanwhile, Punjab Congress President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring warned that the people of the state will not allow a single drop of extra water to flow to any other state. He said Haryana has already received its rightful due and cannot seek more water when Punjab is already facing a shortage. Warring stated there was no justification for Haryanas demand for extra water, adding, We cannot let our own state go dry to provide water to others. He assured full support and cooperation to the Punjab Government in dealing with the situation. He clarified that his party is not against providing Haryana the water already allocated under previous agreements, which it has been receiving for years. But we will not allow a single drop of extra water to flow out of Punjab, he asserted. When Punjab does not have enough water for its own consumption, how can it provide more to others? Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) President Sukhbir Singh Badal accused Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of indulging in theatrics over the extremely sensitive issue of Punjabs river waters. He questioned why the AAP government had previously released 4,000 cusecs of water to Haryana and failed to prevent the release of an additional 8,500 cusecs now. Badal said it was highly condemnable that instead of addressing the issue of Punjabs desertification and its impact on the farm economy, AAP was engaging in superficial protests to divert attention from what he called a sellout of Punjabs river waters. Not only did Bhagwant Mann admit in writing that Punjab had started releasing 4,000 cusecs of additional water to Haryana over the past month, but he also acknowledged that Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini had called him on April 23 and requested the release of another 8,000 cusecs. Saini has confirmed this publicly Instead of resorting to drama now, Mann should tell us under whose direction and with what authority he agreed to release Punjabs water to Haryana. Punjabis never gave him permission to do so, he said. Asserting that the SAD would not allow a conspiracy by neighboring states and the Central Government to rob Punjab of its river waters through unilateral BBMB decisions, Badal demanded that the BBMBs order be revoked immediately, as it was issued without the Punjab Governments approval in violation of the BBMB manual.
Water for Haryana: BJPs Bittu, Jakhar accuse Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann of drama for political gain
BSF and Punjab police foil 'terror plot,' seize weapons; 5 kg heroin bust uncovers smuggling network
CHANDIGARH: The Border Security Force (BSF) and Punjab Police allegedly foiled a terror plot and recovered a cache of arms and ammunition from near Bharopal village in Amritsar district. Sources said that acting on tip off from the intelligence wing of BSF a joint search operation was conducted Wednesday evening leading to the recovery of two hand grenades, three pistols with six magazines and 50 live rounds which was later handed over to the state police for further investigation. The swift and coordinated action with Punjab Police has prevented a possible terror incident, said a BSF official. Meanwhile, in another operation, Punjab Police recovered 5 kilograms of heroin from the rented hideout of one Jodhbir Singh alias Jodha, who is wanted in a Pakistan-backed illegal weapon smuggling module in Amritsar. Director General of Police, Punjab, Gaurav Yadav said here on Thursday that the development came four days after Counter Intelligence unit of Amritsar arrested Jodhbirs accomplice, identified as Abhishek Kumar, of village Meerankot Kalan in Amritsar. He was supplying weapons to anti-social elements on the instructions of his Australia-based handler identified as Jassa. Police teams had also recovered seven pistols and Rs 1.5 lakh cash from his possession, besides, impounding his Mahindra Thar vehicle which was used for weapon smuggling. Yadav said that preliminary investigation revealed that Australia-based handler Jassa and his associates with links to Pakistan-based smugglers were directing accused Jodhbir to retrieve heroin consignments for further distribution at different locations. Further intelligence also indicates that accused Jodhbir Singh also collects drug proceeds and remits them to Pakistan through hawala channels, he said, while adding that the accused, who remains at large, is now implicated in a dual nexus of narcotics and weapon smuggling. Sharing operation details, Yadav said that following the trail of accused Jodhbir, CI Amritsar police teams have found that the accused got an accommodation in the Varindavan Garden Colony at Fatehgarh Churian Road in Amritsar, where he has stored a huge quantity of heroin and was also using rented house as safe haven. Acting swiftly, Police teams raided the house and managed to recover 5kg heroin along with currency counting machine from the house, while, accused Jodhbir has been absconding. Police teams are on manhunt to apprehend accused Jodhbir, he said. A fresh case has been registered under sections 21, 25, 27-A and 29 of the NDPS Act at Police Station State Special Operation Cell, Amritsar.
CBI takes NEET-UG 2024 question paper leak kingpin Sanjeev Mukhiya on four-day remand
PATNA: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Thursday took Sanjeev Kumar Singh , alias Sanjeev Mukhiya, on a four-day remand for interrogation in connection with the NEET-UG 2024 question paper leak case. Mukhiya, the alleged mastermind behind several question paper leak rackets, was arrested from Patna last Friday. CBI special judge Sunil Kumar-2 granted the four-day remand after a petition was filed seeking his custody for interrogation in the undergraduate medical entrance exam case. Although the CBI had requested a seven-day remand, the court granted only four. Mukhiya, a native of Bihars Nalanda district, is believed to be at the centre of an inter-state solver gang involved in leaking question papers of various national-level exams. We hope to get substantial clue in the medical entrance exam question paper leak case, said an investigating officer on condition of anonymity. During an earlier interrogation by Bihar Polices Economic Offences Unit (EOU), Mukhiya reportedly claimed that he had helped several politicians, doctors and government officers by securing medical college seats for their children. He also confessed to maintaining connections with teachers at private coaching institutes, who would send candidates to him. He disclosed that the leaks were carried out in collusion with certain printing press employees. As soon as his men would inform him about question of a particular examination being printed in a press, he would start his work and contact them, the officer said. Mukhiya would allegedly offer hefty bribes to gain access to the papers. NTA initiates action against Telegram, Instagram channels claiming NEET-UG question paper leak Once the question papers were dispatched from the press, his men coordinated with carrier agents. The examination centre authorities were reportedly aware of only two locks on the boxes carrying the question papers, while Mukhiya had access to a third hidden lock. He would open the boxes, make xerox copies of the papers, reseal them carefully, and send them to the examination centres without raising suspicion. The xeroxed question papers were solved by his solver teams and passed on to the candidates before the exams. For the NEET-UG examination, the gang charged between Rs 40 to 50 lakh per candidate. Mukhiya claimed to have strong connections in examination rackets operating in Dehradun, Chandigarh, Lucknow, Kolkata, Gurugram, Noida and Gandhinagar. We used to take help of each other in our work, an investigating officer quoted him as saying. Revealing his personal motivation, Mukhiya reportedly told interrogators that he entered the question paper leak business to accumulate enough money to make his wife an MLA and eventually an MP. He said he had expanded his network to states including Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Delhi, Punjab and West Bengal. Additional Director General (ADG) of EOU, Naiyar Hasnain Khan, said information had been sought regarding the cases registered against Mukhiya in other states. We have shared relevant information to police officers of different states where Mukhiya has been links, Khan said. The ADG clarified that Mukhiya was arrested from an apartment near Saguna Mor under Danapur police limits in connection with the Bihar constable and teachers recruitment exam leak cases being probed by the states investigating agency. Mukhiya also confessed during interrogation that his son, Dr Shiv Prakash, and his associate, Rocky, were active members of the gang. He admitted to his involvement in leaks of question papers of NEET, BPSC, and constable recruitment exams in both Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
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'Sorry, if I rubbed anyone the wrong way': IAS officer Ashok Khemka's goodbye message
IAS officer Ashok Khemka retired after a 33-year career marked by integrity and numerous transfers. Best known for annulling a controversial land deal involving Robert Vadra, Khemka faced political pushback despite public support. Disillusioned with declining bureaucratic ideals, he plans to become a lawyer, continuing his commitment to public service in a new role.
Punjab heightens dam security amid water release dispute with Haryana
CHANDIGARH: The water-sharing dispute between Punjab and Haryana has intensified, with the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) transferring its Director of Water Regulation, Akashdeep Singh, a Punjab cadre officer, and replacing him with Sanjeev Kumar from the Haryana cadre, an unexpected move that has escalated tensions between the two states. Punjab has reacted strongly by stepping up security at the regulator end of the Nangal dam amid fears of a law and order problem following the BBMBs decision to release 8,500 cusecs of water to Haryana on humanitarian grounds. The decision has been vehemently opposed by Punjab, which claims that Haryana has already utilised 104 per cent of its water share for the current accounting season, from September 22, 2024, to May 20, 2025. Sources said the security enhancement was a precautionary measure in response to the heated atmosphere. So, taking precautionary measures, the security has been stepped up, said an official. Adding to the controversy, transfer orders issued for both officersAkashdeep Singh and Sanjeev Kumarstated that Singh had requested the transfer. However, Singh has sent a letter to the BBMB denying making any such request. Meanwhile, the Punjab Chief Engineer wrote to the BBMB, contending that Sanjeev Kumar has experience only in dam safety, not in water regulation, and demanded an immediate revocation of the transfer. Sources claimed Singh had been insisting on releasing water to Haryana only upon receipt of an official indent from Punjab, as per the BBMBs regulation manual. His removal is being seen as a step towards overriding Punjab's resistance to the release. During a five-hour BBMB technical committee meeting held yesterday, the decision to release the water was finalised despite strong objections from Punjab officials. They argued that Haryana had already consumed its quota and that water levels in the Pong and Ranjit Sagar dams were lower than last year. Punjab found itself isolated as BJP-ruled Haryana, Rajasthan and Delhi reportedly joined forces to push for the release, while Congress-ruled Himachal Pradesh remained neutral. The BBMB is responsible for regulating water distribution from the Bhakra, Pong and Ranjit Sagar dams, which serve the irrigation and other needs of Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan. Reacting to the development, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann condemned the move, calling it an act of robbery of Punjabs rights. Punjab strongly opposes the decision to provide water to Haryana through BBMB, which is the right of Punjab and Punjabis. The BJP government of the Centre and Haryana has united against Punjab. We will not tolerate another robbery of our rights by BJP at any cost. BJP should be ready to face the opposition. BJP can never be a friend of Punjab and Punjabis, he wrote on X. In retaliation, Delhi Water Minister Parvesh Verma accused the Punjab government of deliberately blocking Haryanas share of water to disrupt supply to the national capital. The Punjab government has resorted to dirty politics by stopping the water supply to Haryana and Delhi. After losing in Delhi, now they want to create a water crisis in Delhi. We are working day and night to provide clean water to every household in Delhi, and now the Punjab government wants to take revenge on the people of Delhi in this way. Stop this dirty politics or else you will be expelled from Punjab as well, Verma posted on X. Haryana has sought 8,500 cusecs of water from May 21 to 31, while Punjab has requested 8,000 cusecs, with the total demand likely to rise to 23,000 cusecs in June. Punjab officials fear that giving additional water to Haryana will bring down water levels in the Bhakra dam, severely affecting the state's own needs. Meanwhile, Punjabs ruling Aam Aadmi Party has announced state-wide protests against the BBMB decision.
Another red juicy jewel for the crown: Punjab's famed litchis rule Britannia
Punjab's litchis, known for their sweetness and quality, are poised to expand into global markets after a successful debut in England. The state horticulture department, in collaboration with Apeda, is training farmers to meet international export standards.
'Prevented a major terror incident': BSFPunjab Police bust arms haul in Amritsars Bharopal village
In a joint operation, the Border Security Force and Punjab Police seized a significant cache of arms and ammunition from Bharopal village in Amritsar district. The recovered items included two hand grenades, three pistols with six magazines, and 50 live rounds. A BSF official highlighted that this coordinated effort averted a potential major terror incident.
Terrorists aide held after encounter in Punjab
Chandigarh, May 1: The Ludhiana police arrested a key member of the foreign-based terrorist Lakhbir Landa gang following a brief encounter near village Sahibana, said DGP Punjab Gaurav Yadav here on Thursday. The police recovered one illegal weapon along with several cartridges. The DGP said the accused was wanted in a firing incident registered [] The post Terrorists aide held after encounter in Punjab appeared first on Northlines .
Following the Pahalgam terror attack, escalating tensions between India and Pakistan are disrupting the lives of ordinary people with cross-border ties. The Indian government's response of sending back Pakistani nationals is separating families, particularly those in cross-border marriages.
Retired IAS officer Ashok Khemka plans to start new innings as lawyer
After a 33-year career marked by 57 transfers and unwavering integrity, IAS officer Ashok Khemka has retired and plans to practice law. Known for his stance against corruption, particularly in the Vadra-DLF land deal, Khemka faced frequent clashes with both Congress and BJP governments.
