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#PunjabNews

National security in Punjab
Chandigarh, Punjab

BJP Accuses CM Bhagwant Mann of Compromising National Security in Punjab

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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.

Dr. Kamal Soi Exposes Fake Plate Nexus
Chandigarh, Punjab

Punjab HSRP Scam: Dr. Kamal Soi Exposes ₹150 Crore Fake Number Plate Nexus

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Road safety expert Dr. Kamal Soi warns of rising crime and security threats due to the Punjab government’s failure to implement High-Security Registration Plates on older vehicles. Dr. Kamal Soi, a renowned international road safety expert, recently addressed a pressing security crisis in Punjab. He highlighted the non-implementation of High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP) for vehicles registered before April 2019. Consequently, this administrative lapse has birthed a massive illegal market for counterfeit number plates. During the press conference, Dr. Soi exposed how fake HSRPs are openly sold on e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Flipkart. “People are forced to buy these fake plates because the Punjab government has failed to provide a legitimate system,” he stated. After the previous vendor’s contract ended, the state left over 1.5 crore vehicle owners in a state of confusion. Dr. Soi characterized the situation as a scam worth nearly ₹150 crore. Furthermore, he emphasized that these cloned identities significantly hinder law enforcement. Since approximately 99.9% of serious crimes involve vehicles, untraceable number plates pose a direct threat to national security. He specifically cited high-profile cases, such as the Sidhu Moose Wala murder, where attackers used fake plates to evade detection. Moreover, the expert revealed a shocking sting operation. He discovered that local vendors could print fake UID numbers for just ₹2,000. Although the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) has a functional booking portal, the Punjab government has not promoted it. Therefore, innocent citizens remain unaware of the correct legal procedure. “We need enforcement, enforcement, and more enforcement,” Dr. Soi urged. He has already written to the Chief Minister and the DGP regarding this “lavaris” (abandoned) state of vehicle registration. Meanwhile, he demands immediate policy action to curb the rising trend of snatchings and murders linked to untraceable vehicles. Finally, Dr. Soi called for a massive public awareness campaign. He believes that only strict enforcement and a transparent booking process through the SIAM website can solve this crisis. Until the government acts, Punjab remains vulnerable to a growing network of vehicle-borne criminals.

Punjab LPG Supply Crisis
Chandigarh, Punjab

Punjab LPG Supply Crisis: Distributors Warn of Shortages Amid West Asia Tensions

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The Federation of LPG Distributors of Punjab (FLDP) flags supply gaps and restrictive booking policies after sudden price hikes. This situation follows escalating geopolitical instability in the West Asia region. The Federation of LPG Distributors of Punjab (FLDP) issued an urgent alert today regarding a deepening crisis in the state’s cooking gas supply. This warning comes as tensions in West Asia escalate, leading to reports of the Strait of Hormuz closing. Consequently, Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have implemented a steep price hike. Domestic cylinders rose by ₹60, while commercial cylinders saw a ₹115 increase. Restrictive Policies Spark Panic The FLDP claims these sudden price moves occurred without adequate communication. This lack of groundwork created immediate panic among local consumers. Furthermore, new restrictive booking intervals have added to the confusion. Currently, urban consumers can only book once every 25 days. Meanwhile, rural consumers face a stricter 45-day limit. “If there is no shortage, as being officially stated, such restrictive measures are difficult to justify,” the FLDP stated in their press note. They highlighted a significant mismatch between government assurances and the ground situation. While officials claim supply is adequate, distributors face mounting backlogs and insufficient delivery. Operational Strain and Safety Concerns The crisis has also impacted infrastructure efficiency. Reports indicate that bottling plants are operating below capacity despite peak demand. Additionally, the temporary suspension of booking channels for several days aggravated public frustration. Consequently, gas distributors and their staff now face safety risks due to rising public anger. Distributors feel disconnected from the current decision-making process. They are the primary interface for consumers but lack real-time support or clear supply schedules. Therefore, the FLDP is urging the government to rationalize booking restrictions and ensure plants operate at full capacity. Urgent Demands for Intervention To stabilize the market, the federation demands transparent communication and the implementation of 100% Delivery Authentication Code (DAC). This measure aims to prevent fuel diversion and ensure fair distribution. FLDP, President S. Gurpal Singh Mann emphasized that the current situation requires urgent alignment between policy and execution to prevent further escalation.

Featherlite Mohali Experience Centre
Chandigarh, Tri-City Update

New Featherlite Mohali Experience Centre Opens

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The newly inaugurated Featherlite Mohali Experience Centre provides immersive, modern furniture solutions for businesses and educational institutions. Chandigarh: Featherlite has officially launched its largest facility in North India with the inauguration of an 8,000 sq. ft. exclusive space on February 14, 2026. The new Featherlite Mohali Experience Centre aims to redefine workspace and educational environments across the Tricity region of Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula. Located in Sector 82, the immersive destination provides corporate leaders, campus planners, and architects with hands-on access to modern, adaptive furniture solutions. Inside the Featherlite Mohali Experience Centre The newly opened Featherlite Mohali Experience Centre showcases a broad spectrum of institutional and workspace setups under one roof. Visitors can explore ergonomic seating, collaborative office systems, tech-enabled classroom layouts, and specialized public-sector solutions. Company Director Lav J Chellarm inaugurated the facility alongside Directors Rouf Shah and Gazia Shah, as well as Dealer Management Manager Manish Gwalani. During the launch, Chellarm emphasized the company’s goal to better serve Punjab and the Tricity area through this comprehensive display of cutting-edge designs. Sustainability and Modern Design Focus With a manufacturing legacy spanning six decades, Featherlite focuses heavily on ergonomics, contemporary aesthetics, and environmental responsibility. The company’s modern design language incorporates clean lines, biophilic elements, acoustic innovation, and space-efficient modular systems. Sustainability remains a core component of their operations, highlighted by a circular economy model and 3 MW of rooftop solar installations. According to the leadership team, the company prioritizes repurposing and upcycling materials to minimize waste, alongside promoting inclusive hiring practices. Expanding Regional Impact and Future Outlook The new facility builds upon Featherlite’s established partnerships with prominent regional institutions, including Chandigarh University, ISB Mohali, and the UT Administration Chandigarh. Its corporate clientele features major organizations like Tech Mahindra and Quarkcity India, underscoring the brand’s cross-sector credibility. Looking ahead, the demand for adaptive, technology-integrated, and wellness-focused furniture is expected to drive the future of Indian commercial real estate. As hybrid work models and modern pedagogy evolve, the company is strategically positioned to continue shaping how professionals and students collaborate in modern spaces.

Medanta Chandigarh OPD
Chandigarh

Medanta Chandigarh OPD Opens for Advanced Medical Care

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The newly inaugurated Medanta Chandigarh OPD aims to deliver advanced super-specialist medical consultations locally, reducing the need for out-of-state travel. Chandigarh: Medanta–The Medicity has officially expanded its healthcare footprint with the launch of the new Medanta Chandigarh OPD complex. Inaugurated on Saturday, the facility is designed to provide residents of Chandigarh and surrounding states with direct access to Gurugram-based super-specialist doctors. The center was officially inaugurated by Dr. Rajneesh Kapoor, Chairman of Interventional Cardiology at Medanta Hospital and a Punjab Rattan Awardee. Bringing the Medanta Chandigarh OPD to the Region Addressing a press conference, Dr. Kapoor emphasized that the newly opened facility will significantly streamline the medical consultation process. He noted that ailing patients can now easily access Medanta’s expert doctors and advanced treatment options without geographical delays. Dr. Kapoor further highlighted the immense life-saving potential of the new clinical center. He stated that the outpatient department will ensure the rapid dissemination of super-specialized medical treatments to thousands of critically ill patients. Super-Specialty Healthcare Without the Commute The new outpatient department serves as an extension of Medanta’s established ecosystem of clinical excellence. It offers expert consultations across a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary range of medical fields. Available specialties include cardiology, neurosciences, oncology, orthopedics, renal care, and gastroenterology. The center will also facilitate advanced consultations for liver, bone marrow, and lung transplants, alongside chest surgery, plastic surgery, and gynaecology. By bridging the healthcare gap in Chandigarh, Punjab, Haryana, and neighboring areas, this initiative eliminates the immediate need for patients to travel to Gurugram. Looking ahead, this localized access to world-class medical expertise is expected to significantly improve regional health outcomes and ensure faster, life-saving interventions.

Punjab Free Healthcare
Punjab

Punjab Launches Free Healthcare Scheme for All Families Worth ₹10 Lakh

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Arvind Kejriwal and CM Bhagwant Mann unveil Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna, opening private hospitals to all citizens. New Delhi / Punjab, January 22, 2026: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) fulfilled its promise of free healthcare in Punjab with the launch of the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna (MMSY) by National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal and Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann in Mohali. Under the scheme, every family in Punjab is now entitled to free treatment worth up to ₹10 lakh, including in the most premium private hospitals previously accessible only to the wealthy. Addressing beneficiaries during the launch, Kejriwal said, “Today is a historic day for Punjab and the entire country. For decades, people were neglected while successive governments failed to ensure basic healthcare. Today, our health guarantee stands fulfilled.” The Chief Minister, Bhagwant Singh Mann, underlined that 65 lakh families, covering nearly three crore citizens, will now receive health cards, ensuring treatment for all sections of society with no income limit. “Punjab has now set a national benchmark in free healthcare, alongside free education, free electricity, and free bus travel for women,” he said. Highlighting the scale of the initiative, Kejriwal pointed out that 1,000 mohalla clinics have been established across villages and urban neighborhoods in four years, with 2,500 more ‘Pind Clinics’ planned. “Earlier, government hospitals were poorly equipped and understaffed. Today, all machines function, medicines are available, and 1,100 specialist doctors have been recruited,” he added. He further emphasized that the scheme covers critical treatments, including kidney transplants, cancer therapy, heart surgeries, maternity care, brain and spine surgeries, accident and emergency services, and many more. “Even for private hospitals, poor farmers, laborers, and rickshaw pullers will receive the best care without worrying about costs,” Kejriwal stated. Mann elaborated that the scheme includes 2,356 treatment packages, expanding from the previous 1,600, covering specialties like orthopaedics, cardiology, neurology, nephrology, urology, oncology, and more. The health cards can be obtained from facilitation centers, Common Service Centres, or online registration, with youth clubs assisting in door-to-door distribution. The Chief Minister assured that hospitals will be reimbursed within 15 days of treatment, and all services—including diagnostics and medications—are fully covered. “No citizen will be forced to forgo treatment due to financial constraints. The government has ensured smooth implementation by paying insurance premiums in advance,” Mann said. Both leaders emphasized the transformative nature of the scheme. Kejriwal said, “Over the past 75 years, governments neglected public welfare. Today, Punjab sets a global example for inclusive healthcare.” Mann added, “This is inspired by the teachings of Guru Sahiban and ensures every Punjabi has access to life-saving care, regardless of social or economic status.” The launch was attended by AAP Punjab Sah-Prabhari Satyendar Jain, Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh, Cabinet Ministers Aman Arora, Harpal Singh Cheema, MLAs Amansher Singh Sherry Kalsi and Kulwant Singh, along with party leaders and karyakartas. With this landmark initiative, Punjab has become the first state in India to provide comprehensive free healthcare alongside free education, electricity, and women’s bus travel, redefining public welfare for all citizens.

MGNREGA law changes
Chandigarh

Changes to the MGNREGA law are a betrayal of workers: Chandigarh Experts and Activists

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Speakers raise alarm over proposed legal, technical and financial changes to MGNREGA. Chandigarh, January 11:Concerns over proposed MGNREGA (MAHATMA GANDHI NATIONAL RURAL EMPLOYMENT GUARANTEE ) law changes dominated a seminar titled “MGNREGA – Changes, Challenges and the Road Ahead” held at Kendri Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Sector 28-A, on Sunday. The seminar was organised with the support of the Pind Bachao Punjab Bachao Manch and attended by leading intellectuals, journalists and social activists from across Punjab. Speakers described the move to replace the existing MGNREGA law with a new framework as a “direct betrayal of the working class,” questioning the government’s claim of extending employment to 125 days when the legally guaranteed 100 days of work is not being ensured on the ground. Presiding over the event, former Jathedar of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib, Giani Kewal Singh, said, “Placing a 40 percent financial burden on states under the new policy is impossible for a debt-ridden state like Punjab. This is a direct attack on the federal structure.” He warned that continued erosion of labour rights could trigger unrest similar to the farmers’ movement. Presenting a research paper, Engineer Tejinder Singh highlighted how digital attendance through NMMS and Aadhaar-based payment systems (ABPS) have created difficulties for workers. “Due to poor internet connectivity in rural areas, labourers are losing wages despite completing work,” he said. Dr Pyara Lal Garg questioned the intent behind the changes and described MGNREGA as a “legal guarantee rather than a welfare scheme.” He stated that renaming it as Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar (VB-GRAM G) and reducing budget allocations amounted to a political attempt to dilute its original spirit. Senior journalist Hamir Singh linked the proposed MGNREGA law changes to growing global trends of centralised governance. Explaining differences between the existing Act and the proposed VB-GRAM G framework, he cautioned that new provisions could weaken employment security and labour protections. Addressing social implications, Jaspal Singh Sidhu noted that over 50 percent of MGNREGA beneficiaries are women. He warned that weakening the scheme would adversely affect women’s empowerment and accelerate forced migration from rural to urban areas, impacting the national economy. Manpreet Kaur Rajpura highlighted the challenges faced by women from nearly 20,000 families associated with MGNREGA works. Karnail Singh Jakhepal, president of the International Democratic Party, proposed that MGNREGA must be protected as a “right, not charity,” with enhanced budgetary support and stronger links to agriculture and environmental conservation. The proceedings were conducted by Dr Khushhal Singh, General Secretary, Kendri Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Chandigarh.

350th Martyrdom Anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib
Chandigarh

Week-Long Gurmat Samagam Begins in Chandigarh on the 350th Martyrdom Anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib

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Nagar Kirtan, Spiritual Discourses, Theatre Play and Special Kirtan Events to Commemorate the Ninth Guru’s Suprem Chandigarh, November 19, 2025:The Chandigarh Gurdwara Establishment Committee, Sector 22-D, has announced a week-long Gurmat Samagam dedicated to the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji. The religious events will take place from November 19 to November 25, 2025. This information was shared by the Committee’s General Secretary, Sardar Gurjot Singh Sahni, during a press conference held at Sri Guru Gobind Singh Public School, Sector 35, Chandigarh. Sahni stated that the purpose of the week-long observance is to inspire the Sangat with Gurmat principles, values of sacrifice, and universal human ethics. The main venues of the samagam include Sri Guru Gobind Singh Public School, Sector 35-B, Gurdwara Sahib Sector 37-C, Gurdwara Sahib Sector 22-D, and other associated Gurmat institutions. The samagam commenced on November 19 at the school, featuring performances by Bhai Sukhdeep Singh, Bhai Lakhwinder Singh, Bhai Harjot Singh Jakhmi, Bhai Ravinder Singh, and other renowned Katha-vachaks and Ragi jathas. Their soulful Kirtan enlightened the congregation. The chief guest for the inaugural event was Dr. Iqbal Singh Lalpura, former IPS officer and former Chairperson of the National Commission for Minorities. On November 20, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm, a theatrical presentation titled “Shahadat Patshahi Nauvin” will be staged. Written by Baljinder Singh Darapuri and directed by Baninderjit Singh Banni, the play depicts Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji’s supreme martyrdom, protection of human rights, and the immortal message of religious freedom. The event will be presided over by Sardar Paramjit Singh Sarna, former President of DSGMC. On November 21, a grand Nagar Kirtan will start at 11 am from Gurdwara Sahib Sector 22-D, passing through Sector 22 Market, Sector 17 Plaza, Sector 18, Sector 19, Sector 35, and concluding at Sector 37. Gatka teams, school students, Kirtan jathas, and a large number of devotees will participate. November 22 will feature youth-focused Gurmat seminars at Gurdwara Sahib Sector 22-D, while November 23 will include the conclusion of Sehaj Paath, special Kirtan, a religious exhibition, and Gurmat lectures. On November 24, discourses on Seva, Panthic discipline, and unity will be delivered.The samagam will conclude on November 25 at Gurdwara Sahib Sector 37-C with Akhand Paath Bhog, Kirtan, Ardas, and Guru Ka Langar, attended by senior religious representatives. Sardar G.S. Sahni appealed to the Sangat of Chandigarh and nearby areas to participate with devotion and make this historic commemoration successful in honor of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji.

Doabi extends support
Chandigarh

Bhagat Singh Doabi Extends Support to Punjab Bachao Morcha Against Illegal Religious Conversions

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At a press conference in Chandigarh, Taran Dal chairman Bhagat Singh Doabi endorsed PBM’s campaign, accusing fake pastors of misleading people through deceit, superstition and commercial motives. Chandigarh:At a press conference held at the Chandigarh Press Club, Sardar Bhagat Singh Doabi, Chairman of the Misal Misal Shaheeda Taran Dal, announced his full support for the Punjab Bachao Morcha (PBM) and its president Tejaswi Minhas. Doabi said that the Morcha is raising the critical issue of illegal religious conversions in Punjab and informing society and the administration about the ground realities. Doabi alleged that so-called “pastors” are misleading innocent people by using magic tricks, fake miracles, deception, and greed. He said PBM’s statements and press conferences are based on the true situation in Punjab. Doabi further accused figures like Bajinder Singh of being convicted of heinous crimes, and calling such individuals “pastors” is an insult to the term itself. He also mentioned that Ankur Narula had previously disrespected the Bible by cutting a cake on it, and claimed that he too would face legal consequences soon. Doabi stated that these “fake pastors” are operating without any qualifications, training, or regulation, and are exploiting religious platforms for commercial gain. He clarified that Christianity never promotes “instant miraculous healing,” yet these centres extort large sums of money from sick and simple people through false promises. He reiterated the key demands raised by the Punjab Bachao Morcha, including: During the press conference, Bhagat Singh Doabi said that PBM’s movement is not only the need of the hour but also a decisive step toward freeing society from superstition, hypocrisy, and fraud. He appealed to all aware citizens to stand with PBM and strengthen this social campaign.