Recent News from Punjab ~ InfoTrac

Crime and Law Enforcement

CBI Arrests Punjab Police DIG: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested Punjab Police DIG Harcharan Singh Bhullar in connection with an alleged bribery case. Authorities recovered approximately Rs 5 crore in cash, 1.5 kg of gold, and several luxury watches from his premises.
Teacher Arrested for Sexual Abuse: In Patiala, a physical education teacher from a school has been arrested for the alleged sexual abuse of an 8-year-old girl, bringing attention to child safety concerns in educational institutions.

AAP Leader Elected Unopposed to Rajya Sabha: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Rajinder Gupta, founder of the Trident Group, has been elected unopposed in the Rajya Sabha by-election, strengthening AAP's presence in national politics.
Malwa Canal Project Initiated: The Punjab government has appointed key personnel to accelerate the Malwa Canal Project, which is estimated to cost Rs 2,300 crore and aims to improve irrigation infrastructure.
Petition Against Outsourcing of Mid-Day Meal Scheme: The Punjab and Haryana High Court has issued a notice on a petition challenging the outsourcing of the Mid-Day Meal Scheme to private companies, raising questions about public welfare and transparency.
Smart Panels in Schools: The government has announced a plan to install interactive smart panels in 3,600 government schools at a cost of Rs 98 crore to enhance digital education.
Invitation for Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji's Martyrdom Day: Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has extended invitations to the President and Prime Minister of India to attend the 350th martyrdom day events of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, emphasizing cultural and historical significance.

Manipulation of Paddy by Rice Mill Owners: Farmers have raised accusations against rice mill owners and officials for manipulating paddy by artificially increasing its moisture content, leading to underpayment and financial losses.
Survey on Flood-Damaged Paddy Fields: A central team has conducted a survey of flood-damaged paddy fields and is expected to recommend relaxations in procurement norms to support affected farmers.
'Sewa Seva' Campaign Launched by Sukhbir Badal: Shiromani Akali Dal leader Sukhbir Badal has launched the 'Sewa Seva' campaign and criticized the AAP government for failing to provide free wheat seeds to farmers impacted by floods.

Ban on Intravenous Medicines: The Punjab government has imposed a ban on eight intravenous (IV) medicines and liquids from three pharmaceutical companies due to reports of adverse drug reactions, prioritizing public health safety.
Beating Retreat Ceremony Suspended: The 'Beating Retreat' ceremony at Hussainiwala has been suspended because of flood-related damage, affecting cultural events in the region.
Fresh Firing at Kapil Sharma's Cafe in Canada: There have been reports of fresh firing incidents at comedian Kapil Sharma's cafe in Canada, which may have indirect implications for Punjab's international connections.