May 7, 2026 - Darpan Chandigarh

BJP Accuses CM Bhagwant Mann of Compromising National Security in Punjab

National Spokesperson RP Singh slams the Chief Minister for blaming political rivals instead of addressing the ISI-linked grenade blasts. CHANDIGARH — The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has raised grave concerns regarding the deteriorating national security in Punjab. National Spokesperson RP Singh issued a stinging rebuke against Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Specifically, Singh accused the CM of “shockingly irresponsible” conduct following recent grenade blasts in Jalandhar and Amritsar. Contradicting Intelligence Reports Punjab’s Director General of Police (DGP), Gaurav Yadav, recently stated that Pakistan’s ISI orchestrated these attacks. However, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann chose to blame the BJP instead of addressing the foreign threat. Consequently, RP Singh claims that Mann is effectively providing “cover fire” to the ISI. He argued that the CM is creating a political smokescreen to shield the real masterminds across the border. “This is not just a failure of governance; it is a betrayal of the oath of office,” Singh remarked during his address. Furthermore, he highlighted that the Chief Minister is undermining security forces instead of supporting them. Meanwhile, the BJP leader brought up previous allegations involving the banned group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). Allegations of “Payback” Politics Specifically, Singh reminded the public of claims made by designated terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Pannun previously alleged that his organization funded the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) with $16 million for election purposes. Therefore, the BJP is questioning if the CM’s current rhetoric is a “payback” for support from anti-India elements. In addition, Singh noted that Punjab has witnessed an unprecedented rise in RPG attacks and targeted killings under the AAP regime. He described the situation as a complete collapse of law and order. Consequently, he accused Mann of acting as a political shield for radical elements rather than protecting citizens. A 24-Hour Ultimatum The BJP has now issued a strict 24-hour ultimatum to the Chief Minister. Mann must either provide concrete evidence for his allegations against the BJP or apologize to the nation. Ultimately, Singh emphasized that the security of Punjab—the “sword arm of India”—must not be sacrificed for petty political interests.

Chandigarh, Punjab

Experts Demand Cooling Infrastructure as Heatwaves Surge in Punjab

Darpan News Network / May 7, 2026

A multi-stakeholder workshop at Chandigarh Press Club highlights the urgent need to protect gig workers and farmers from rising temperatures. CHANDIGARH — Chandigarh recently hosted a critical workshop titled “Heatwaves in Punjab: Science, Health, and Social Awareness” at the local Press Club. Clean Air Punjab and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) collaborated to organize this timely event. Consequently, experts and activists gathered to address the escalating dangers of extreme heat. Sanam Sutirath Wazir, Director of Clean Air Punjab, opened the discussion with a powerful message. She stated that climate strategies must focus on the most vulnerable communities first. For instance, farmers and gig workers deal with extreme heat every single day. Therefore, simple awareness is no longer sufficient to protect them. “Systems for care and relief must be established at the local level,” Wazir emphasized. “These systems must incorporate cooling spaces and community support mechanisms to help those on the front lines.” Meanwhile, IMD scientist Shivinder Thakur highlighted the importance of scientific forecasting. He noted that heatwave patterns are changing rapidly across the region. Therefore, authorities must disseminate timely warnings to the public to prevent casualties. Furthermore, agriculture faces a significant threat from these rising temperatures. Dr. Prabhjyot Kaur from Punjab Agricultural University explained that heat damages soil quality and crop yields. Consequently, local farmers shared their personal struggles with maintaining livelihoods under a scorching sun. In addition, healthcare experts like Dr. A.K. Mandal warned of a surge in heat-related illnesses. These cases are currently placing immense pressure on local medical services. The workshop also highlighted the plight of the unorganized sector. Tech Chand, a Chandigarh gig worker, shared a chilling reality of his daily routine. He explained that outdoor laborers lack basic amenities like shade and accessible drinking water. “For workers like me, the heat is not merely an inconvenience; it can become life-threatening,” Tech Chand remarked. “We are often compelled to work under the sun for long hours without any relief.” Ultimately, the participants reached a clear consensus. They suggested that public buildings and religious sites should serve as temporary cooling shelters during peak summer. Combatting heatwaves in Punjab requires a strong synergy between science, policy, and community action. This collective effort will ensure the safety of the state’s most vulnerable citizens.