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Chandigarh, Haryana

Haryana Human Rights Commission Issues Strong Order in Elder Abuse Case

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Chandigarh, July 21, 2025 — Taking serious note of a disturbing complaint, the Haryana Human Rights Commission has issued a strong directive in favour of an 82-year-old ShriArjanDevAggarwal and his 72-year-old wife Smt. Vijay Aggarwal, residents of Sector 9, Panchkula, who have accused their son and daughter-in-law of sustained mental harassment, neglect, and coercion to transfer property.

According to the complaint, despite being elderly and suffering from severe health conditions requiring multiple surgeries, the couple has been subjected to isolation, verbal abuse, and psychological trauma while living under the same roof with their son and daughter-in-law. The complainants allege they were threatened to move into an old-age home and were even falsely implicated in a domestic violence case. They had also filed an application for eviction under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 before the Senior Citizen Tribunal in Panchkula on January 18, 2025, but have received no relief so far.

The Commission observed that:

  • Under Section 4 of the Act, senior citizens are entitled to claim maintenance from their children;
  • Under Section 23, any property transferred on the condition of care, if not fulfilled, can be declared null and void;
  • Section 24 makes it a punishable offence to abandon a senior citizen.

Justice LalitBatra, Chairperson of the Haryana Human Rights Commission, noted that such treatment is not only a violation of the 2007 Act but also a gross infringement of Article 21 of the Constitution of India, which guarantees the right to live with dignity. He termed the conduct of the respondents as a clear case of abuse, neglect, and coercion.

In light of the prima facie evidence of elder abuse, the Commission has directed the Deputy Commissioner, Panchkula to:

  • Ensure immediate protection to the elderly couple through local police or other concerned authorities;
  • Expedite proceedings before the Senior Citizen Tribunal and provide necessary administrative assistance;
  • Submit an action-taken report to the Commission before the next date of hearing.

Dr.PuneetArora, Protocol, Information & Public Relations Officer of the Commission, informed that the next hearing in the matter has been scheduled for September 23, 2025, and copies of the Commission’s order have been sent to the Deputy Commissioner and Commissioner of Police, Panchkula, as well as to the complainants for necessary compliance.

Chandigarh, Haryana, Punjab

Tricity Paediatric Super Specialty Meet 2025 Sets New Benchmarks in Child Healthcare Innovation

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Chandigarh, July 21, 2025:
Over 100 leading pediatricians and child health specialists from across India came together today at JW Marriott, Chandigarh for the Tricity Paediatric Super Specialty Meet 2025, held in collaboration with the Punjab Medical Council.

This year’s theme—“Protecting Our Little Ones: Exploring the Latest Advancements in Child Health”—set the tone for an intensive exchange of knowledge, innovation, and collaborative discussion on critical child health issues.

The day-long meet featured impactful sessions on Kawasaki Disease, Pediatric Neurology, complex PICU cases, infectious markers through dermatological symptoms, and cutting-edge vaccination strategies.

One of the key highlights was the “Vaccination Dialogue” session, which focused on Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)—a common cause of persistent cough, wheezing, and pneumonia in infants. Experts discussed in detail the newly available single-dose preventive vaccine, Beyfortus (Nirsevimab), and its significance in protecting neonates from RSV-related complications.

Dr. Neeraj Kumar, former President of IMA Chandigarh and lead Motherhood organizer, stated:
“This meet is not just about knowledge sharing—it’s a collective commitment to staying at the forefront of pediatric healthcare. We must empower our medical community with updated insights, tools, and awareness to safeguard our most delicate population—our children.”

Dr. Sunny Narula, Senior Consultant Pediatrician and an influential voice in pediatric advocacy, emphasized:
“In a post-pandemic world, pediatric care must evolve swiftly. This platform enables clinicians to engage directly with the latest research, therapies, and real-world experiences that can significantly impact outcomes in OPDs and ICUs alike.”

Dr. Abhay Shah, former Chairperson of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics and practicing pediatrician from Ahmedabad, shared:
“Child health lies at the intersection of science and society. While we address diseases like RSV, we must also consider the nutritional and environmental conditions shaping modern childhood. Prevention, early intervention, and health equity must be our top priorities.”

Prof. Archana Chakraborty, pediatrician and academician from Faridabad, added:
“What excites me most about this meet is the interdisciplinary richness—from neurodevelopmental assessments to dermatological diagnostics. These diverse conversations push us to think beyond the textbook and apply integrated care models in our practice.”

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🔬 Scientific Highlights
• Kawasaki in Cribs – Early diagnosis and treatment strategies in infants
• Skin Speaks – Using dermatological signs to detect early infectious conditions
• Neuro Care Update – Complex pediatric neurology case discussions
• Vaccination Breakthrough – Expert discussion on Beyfortus (Nirsevimab) for RSV prevention in newborns

The event saw active participation from major pediatric hubs such as PGIMER Chandigarh, GMCH-32, GMSH-16, along with leading private hospitals and institutions from Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, and Faridabad.

Chandigarh, Haryana, Punjab

“Teen’s Sudden Health Crisis Linked to Rare Birth Defect and Childhood Surgery”

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Chandigarh, July 21, 2025 – When 15-year-old Abeer (name changed) started experiencing sudden abdominal pain and vomiting greenish fluid, his parents were naturally concerned. At first, they thought it was a routine stomach infection. But the reality was far more serious—and rooted in a condition he was treated for as a baby.

Abeer was born in a district of Himachal Pradesh. He was a full-term baby, at just two months old, he began showing symptoms such as persistent vomiting, feeding intolerance, and poor weight gain. He was diagnosed with a rare congenital condition called intestinal malrotation, where the intestines develop in the wrong position inside the abdomen. This condition affects approximately 1 in every 2,000 live births and, if left untreated, can lead to a dangerous complication known as volvulus, where the intestines twist and block the blood supply.

What makes this condition particularly challenging is that it often cannot be detected on standard prenatal anomaly scans. “Unlike heart or spine defects, this condition doesn’t produce obvious abnormalities during fetal development,” explained Dr. Ashish Dharmik, Consultant – Paediatric Neonatal Surgery, Motherhood Chaitanya Hospital, Sec 44, Chandigarh “The bowel is present and moving, so the scan often appears normal. Subtle mispositioning of the intestines just isn’t easy to pick up in utero.”

Abeer underwent corrective surgery called Ladd’s procedure at the time and made a steady recovery in 7 days, was discharged in stable condition.

For the next 15 years, Abeer was healthy and thriving—until recently, when he began vomiting and couldn’t keep any food down. Doctors quickly identified a blockage in his small intestine. This time, the problem was caused by adhesions—bands of internal scar tissue that can form after surgery.

“Adhesions are like cobwebs inside the abdomen,” explained Dr. Ashish Dharmik, Consultant – Paediatric Neonatal Surgery, Motherhood Chaitanya Hospital, Sec 44, Chandigarh. “When someone has had abdominal surgery, even years ago, some tissues inside the belly can stick together. Over time, this can cause blockage, preventing food and fluids from passing through the intestine.”

Doctors first tried to manage Abeer’s condition with fluids and medications for about 5–7 days. However, when these treatments didn’t work, surgery was the only option.

During the operation, Dr. Dharmik found thick scar tissue stuck around the intestines, along with a narrowed section of the small intestine called the jejunum. “We had to gently separate all the stuck areas to free the intestines,” said Dr. Dharmik. “Then we removed the narrowed portion and joined the healthy parts together so everything could function normally again.”

Abeer recovered well after surgery—he resumed soft foods within days and was discharged in stable condition. Stitches were to be removed on day 10, with follow-ups scheduled thereafter,

While adhesive intestinal obstruction can happen after any abdominal surgery, it is relatively rare for it to present 13–15 years later, especially in adolescents. The risk of such complications is estimated to be between 1% to 5% after abdominal procedures in infancy. Dr. Ashish Dharmik emphasized that this case is a reminder for parents to stay alert. “If your baby vomits frequently, doesn’t gain weight properly, or seems to have feeding issues, it’s important to get them checked. Conditions like malrotation are rare, but when caught early, they can be treated safely. Even in older children, if there’s frequent stomach pain that doesn’t go away or isn’t explained by infection or diet, further tests may be needed. If left undetected, such blockages can lead to malnutrition or even emergencies requiring immediate surgery.”

This case is a powerful reminder of how certain congenital conditions, though treated early, may carry long-term implications. It highlights the importance of timely diagnosis, surgical expertise, and parental awareness.

Haryana

Delhi and Haryana to play an important role in realizing vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’: Rekha Gupta

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Haryana to play a leading role in building a ‘Viksit Bharat’: CM Nayab Singh Saini

India emerges as fourth-largest economy under PM Narendra Modi’s Leadership

Previous governments lacked clear development agenda: Nayab Singh Saini

Delhi and Haryana to play an important role in realising vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta

Chandigarh, July 19 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi, India is progressing rapidly towards becoming a developed nation, guided by the principle of Antyodaya espoused by Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya. Since 2014, India has achieved remarkable milestones in development. Haryana is committed to playing a leading role in realising the Prime Minister’s vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ and will move forward in close coordination with the Central Government.

The Chief Minister was addressing a programme organised today in Jind district. On this occasion, he inaugurated the Agrasen Dharamshala and performed the Bhoomi Pujan for the Nandi and Kamdhenu Gaushala. He also announced a grant of Rs 31 lakh for the Dharamshala. Delhi Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta attended the event as a special guest.

Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi, India has carved out a strong identity for itself on the global stage. The Prime Minister has consistently believed that India will become as an economic superpower, and today, it is a matter of pride that the Indian economy has advanced from the 11th position to the 4th largest in the world. This unprecedented journey of progress has been made possible through his dynamic leadership, and India is well on its path to becoming the third-largest economy in the near future.

Previous governments lacked clear development agenda

Taking a dig at the previous governments, Chief Minister Sh Naib Singh Saini said that previous regimes lacked a clear vision for the country’s development and used to pursue agendas unrelated to the nation’s progress. In contrast, the sole objective of the present government is to transform India into a developed nation by the year 2047. He affirmed that Haryana will contribute with full dedication and commitment to the ‘Viksit Bharat’ vision of Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi.

Paying homage to Maharaja Agrasen, the Chief Minister said that the construction of the Agrasen Dharamshala is not merely a cement-and-concrete structure, but a living embodiment of the noble ideals and values of Maharaja Agrasen ji, who provided a new direction to society thousands of years ago. Maharaja Agrasen was a true symbol of righteousness, service and social harmony. His principle of ‘one brick and one rupee’ was the world’s first and most effective model of socialism and collective responsibility. He taught us that society is not built by one individual alone, but through the collective cooperation and support of all. The true Rajdharma lies in caring for the last person in society.

The Chief Minister said that this Dharamshala is a shared heritage of the entire society and will serve as a hub for social unity and harmony. He extended his heartfelt congratulations to all the donors, officials and volunteers of the Agrawal community, adding that their spirit of service will continue to inspire future generations.

CM Rekha Gupta is committed to serving the people, inspired by the ideals of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay

Chief Minister Sh Nayab Singh Saini said that Haryana’s daughter, Smt. Rekha Gupta, has visited her native village Nandgarh for the first time today after assuming office as the Chief Minister of Delhi, coinciding with her birthday. He extended heartfelt greetings and best wishes to her on behalf of the people of Haryana. Praising the Delhi Chief Minister, Sh Saini said that Smt. Rekha Gupta belongs to a simple background and has committed herself to public service, guided by the ideals of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay. Her entire life has been devoted to the service of the nation, and she has continuously worked for its progress. He added that her vision, policies, and dedication are focused on taking Delhi to new heights of development. He assured that the governments of Haryana and Delhi will work together with full strength and commitment towards achieving the goal of a ‘Viksit Bharat’.

Delhi and Haryana to play an important role in realizing vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’– Rekha Gupta

Speaking on this occasion, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said that while Delhi is her karmabhoomi, Haryana is her janmabhoomi. She said that she will fulfill the responsibilities entrusted to her by Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi with utmost dedication and will work tirelessly 24 hours a day in the service of the people.

She said that both Delhi and Haryana have a significant role to play in realizing the vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’. It is due to the policies of the Bharatiya Janata Party and the visionary leadership of the Prime Minister that individuals from simple backgrounds are today holding top positions in states like Delhi and Haryana and placing the highest priority on public service.

Rekha Gupta also expressed her gratitude to Haryana Chief Minister Shri Nayab Singh Saini for dedicating the Agrasen Dharamshala to the people of Julana.

Chandigarh

Vipul Goel Launches Tree Plantation Drive in Faridabad

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Chandigarh, July 20

Haryana’s Urban Local Bodies Minister Sh. Vipul Goel said true sustainable development lies in maintaining a balance between development and nature. Putting this thought into action, a special tree plantation drive was launched on Sunday morning at the green zone located on Sector-9 Bypass Road in Faridabad.

He said, “This campaign is not just a formality, but a reflection of a positive shift in our thinking. We are no longer just in a race for development, now we aim for sustainable development — a balance between ‘nature and progress’.”

He emphasized the need to promote this initiative as a long-term public movement to keep the environment clean, green, and livable. The area marked as a green zone is being developed as a model site.

He described Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi’s leadership in this direction as historic. He said, “Modi ji has made environmental conservation the core of policy-making. Through ‘Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment)’, he has inspired every citizen to adopt a nature-friendly lifestyle, as real environmental protection is not possible without changing the way we live. Initiatives like the ‘International Solar Alliance’ show how India has taken global leadership in making solar energy accessible to all.”

Vipul Goel further stated that India has set a target of producing 450 gigawatts of renewable energy, which reflects the country’s strong commitment to clean energy in the coming years. Similarly, the construction of over 500 Amrit Sarovars and the Green Urban Mobility Plan in 75 cities are examples of turning environmental policies into ground realities.

Chandigarh, Haryana

Law and Order Strengthened in Haryana,  Sharp Decline in Crime Rate

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Chandigarh, July 20

The Haryana Government, under its “Zero Tolerance for Crime” policy, has taken significant and effective measures to strengthen law and order in the state. Compared to previous years, the crime rate has witnessed a marked decline. Focused actions are being undertaken to ensure women’s safety, control cybercrime, and crack down on the drug mafia and gangster networks. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to make Haryana a safer and more law-abiding state.

Calling the recent statements made by the opposition on the issue of crime in the state, as misleading and factually baseless, an official spokesperson said such remarks are nothing but an attempt to spread fear among the public and misguide citizens. The spokesperson further added that if the opposition leaders had objectively compared police data from 2004–2014 with that from 2014–2024, they would not have made such careless and irresponsible claims.

*Strict Action must be Taken Against Criminals, CM issues strict directives on Law and Order*

Reaffirming his firm stance on public safety, Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini has issued unequivocal directives to uphold a robust and responsive law and order system across Haryana. Chairing a recent high-level meeting with Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police, the Chief Minister stressed that strict and uncompromising action must be taken against criminals, and no leniency will be tolerated.

He said that ensuring the safety and security of citizens is the foremost responsibility of the state government. There is zero room for negligence when it comes to protecting the people,  he said, adding that a strong law and order framework is the very backbone of peace and sustainable development.

The Chief Minister continues to personally monitor the law and order situation across the state and frequently issues strategic directions to senior police officers. His consistent focus remains on ensuring transparency, accountability, and swift action at every administrative level.

Citing figures from the Haryana State Crime Records Bureau, the spokesperson shared that during the Congress regime (2004–2014), the average annual increase in crime was as high as 18.69%. In contrast, during the 2014–2024 period, most crime categories, except snatching, have shown negative growth trends. For example, murder cases increased from 733 in 2004 to 1,106 in 2014, reflecting a 3.81% annual increase. However, by 2024, the number of murder cases declined to 966, demonstrating a significant drop.

From January 1 to June 30, 2025, the state recorded a clear reduction in several major crime categories compared to the same period in 2024. Murder cases decreased by 7%, robbery dropped by 30.13%, snatching incidents reduced by 11.64%, burglary went down by 13.27%, general theft declined by 6.55%, and rape cases fell by 26.14%. There was also a 16.67% drop in kidnapping cases and a 16.90% reduction in molestation and sexual harassment cases.

*Strict action taken by STF Haryana against organized crime and criminal network*

The spokesperson said that under a major crackdown on organized crime and criminal networks, STF Haryana, in coordination with other law enforcement agencies, has arrested a large number of wanted criminals, gangsters, gang members, and those involved in serious crimes since 2023. STF has arrested 433 most-wanted criminals with cash rewards on their heads, 248 gangsters and gang members, and 792 individuals involved in heinous crimes since 2023 till date.

In several high-profile encounters, STF Haryana neutralised some of the most notorious criminals. These include Ashish alias Lallu, Sunny Kharad, and Vicky Ridhana, accused in multiple heinous crimes, including Sunder murder case in murthal, Sonipat, the Mahindra showroom firing case in Hisar.

Deepak alias Furtilla, linked to a triple murder at a liquor vend near Delhi Bypass in Rohtak, was killed in an encounter. Sagar, involved in the murder of BSP leader Harbilas in Naraiangarh, was also killed in encounter with STF Ambala.

Romil Vohra, a wanted criminal involved in the December 2024 triple murder in Kheri Lakha Singh village of Yamunanagar, the murder of liquor trader Shantanu in Shahabad, and other heinous crimes, was killed during an encounter with STF Haryana Police. In 2024, Haryana Police was involved in 42 encounters with gang-linked criminals. In these incidents, 7 dreaded criminals were killed and 57 others were seriously injured. So far in 2025, 33 such encounters have taken place in which 5 notorious criminals were killed and 44 others seriously injured. In all these encounters, Haryana Police personnel showed extraordinary bravery by risking their lives and confronting heavily armed criminals.

The STF has also actively pursued international fugitives. In coordination with central agencies, STF Haryana has issued 83 Look Out Circulars (LOCs), 37 Red Corner Notices (RCNs), 27 Interpol references, and initiated the cancellation of 21 passports. Notably, 9 absconding criminals who were operating from abroad and orchestrating serious crimes in Haryana have been successfully deported or extradited, dismantling their gang networks in the state.

Additionally, some criminals who are hiding in foreign countries like rats in burrows and still committing crimes will be brought out and eliminated. The process of their extradition is underway in coordination with the concerned central agencies. The extradition process for criminals hiding in the USA, UK, Georgia, and Australia is in its final stages, and they will soon be brought back to Haryana.

To further improve law enforcement, digital surveillance systems have been strengthened at both police station and district levels. The expansion of CCTV networks, women helpline services, crime control rooms, and the establishment of fast-track courts have expedited the judicial process and enhanced public safety mechanisms.

Chandigarh, Punjab

Government intensifying efforts under Project JEEVANJYOT 2.0 to make the state child-begging free; 21 child beggars rescued: Dr. Baljit Kaur

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Chandigarh, July 20:

Under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is carrying out a vigorous campaign to make the state free from begging. Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur informed that under Project JEEVANJYOT 2.0, a total of 21 child beggars have been rescued from the districts of Ludhiana and Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar (Nawanshahr).

She stated that the district child protection teams of the department conducted special raids at the bus stands, railway stations, and other locations in Ludhiana, rescuing 18 children, while 3 more children were rescued from Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar. All rescued children have been presented before the Child Welfare Committees and are currently kept safely in children’s homes.

Dr. Baljit Kaur said that if investigations reveal that any person has forced these children into begging, strict legal action will be taken against them. She further added that if there is any suspicion regarding the identity of the child’s parents, the Child Welfare Committees may also initiate DNA testing on the orders of the Deputy Commissioner to ascertain the true parentage of the children.

The Minister emphasized that the primary objective of the Punjab Government is to ensure a safe and secure future for every child. She stated that continuous raids are being conducted at various locations by district teams under JEEVANJYOT 2.0. Notably, no cases of child begging have been reported from districts other than Ludhiana and Nawanshahr, which reflects the effectiveness of the government’s awareness and rescue campaigns.

Dr. Baljit Kaur further stated that in order to completely root out the serious issue of child begging from Punjab, the Social Security Department’s district welfare teams will continue such raids and checks regularly across all districts, ensuring that no child is ever forced into begging.

In conclusion, the Minister appealed to the public to not give alms to any child beggar and urged that if any child is seen begging anywhere, people should immediately report the case by calling Child Helpline 1098, so that the child can be provided immediate protection, care, and a better future.

Chandigarh

OPS SEAL-XVII: 92 ENTRY/EXIT POINTS SEALED TO KEEP VIGIL AROUND DRUG SMUGGLERS & BOOTLEGGERS IN PUNJAB; 10 HELD

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CHANDIGARH, July 20:

          Amidst the ongoing anti-drugs “Yudh Nashian Virudh” campaign launched on the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to eradicate drug menace from state, Punjab Police on Sunday carried out a special operation ‘OPS Seal-XVII’ aimed at checking all the vehicles entering or exiting the border state of Punjab to keep tab at drug trafficking and liquor smuggling.

          During the operation, conducted from 6 am to 2 pm simultaneously in all the districts on the directions of Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav, all the SSPs of Border districts were directed to organise joint Naka operations at strategic places of the border districts and mobilise a maximum number of manpower to lay strong ‘nakas’ at sealing points under the supervision of Gazetted officers/SHOs.

          Sharing details, Special DGP Law and Order Arpit Shukla said that well-coordinated strong nakas involving over 700 Police Personnel were set up under the supervision of Inspectors/DSPs at least 92 entry/exit points of 10 districts, which share boundaries with four border states and UT Chandigarh. The 10 inter-state border districts include Pathankot, Sri Muktsar Sahib, Fazilka, Rupanagar, SAS Nagar, Patiala, Sangrur, Mansa, Hoshiarpur and Bathinda.

          He said that as many as 2380 vehicles entering/exiting the state were checked, of which 208 were challaned and three were impounded during the operation. Police teams have also registered 9 FIRs and arrested 10 persons during the operation.

          Apart from this, Police teams have continued its cordon and search operation (CASO) against drugs on Day 141, and conducted raids at 401 locations on Sunday leading to the arrest of 110 drug smugglers after registration of 75 first information reports (FIRs) across the state. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 22,764 within 141 days.

          The Special DGP said that the raids have resulted in recovery of 1.4 kg heroin and 15 kg poppy husk from the possession of arrested drug smugglers.

          He informed that over 180 Police teams, comprising over 1300 police personnel, under the supervision of 87 gazetted officers have conducted raids across the state and checked as many as 438 suspicious persons during the day long operation.

          He said that Punjab Police has devised a comprehensive strategy and such operations will be continued till the scourge of drugs eradicated from the state.

          The Special DGP said that with the state government has enforced a three-pronged strategy— Enforcement, Deaddiction and Prevention (EDP)— to eradicate drugs from the state, the Punjab Police as part of ‘De-addiction’ has convinced 57 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.

Chandigarh

Previous Regimes Sheltered Perpetrators of Sacrilege; New Law Will Bring Them to Justice: CM

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Shehna (Barnala), July 19 :

Slamming previous regimes in the state for sheltering those involved in heinous crimes of sacrilege, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday said that the newly introduced law will ensure exemplary punishment for such offenders.

Addressing a gathering after virtually dedicating public libraries, the Chief Minister reiterated his government’s commitment to curbing sacrilege. He shared that on Monday, the government introduced the Punjab Prevention of Crime Against Religious Scriptures Bill, 2025, in the Vidhan Sabha. Bhagwant Singh Mann emphasized that this sensitive and critical issue affects all Punjabis and has far-reaching implications for both present and future generations.

The Chief Minister asserted that stringent punishment is necessary to serve as a deterrent against such crimes. He said that the resounding success of Yudh Nasheyan De Virudh (War Against Drugs) has proven the effectiveness of the state government’s strategy in tackling drug abuse. Bhagwant Singh Mann noted that several politically powerful individuals, once considered untouchable, are now lodged in Nabha jail.

Their arrest, the Chief Minister said, has exposed the double standards of traditional political parties that were complicit in drug smuggling. Bhagwant Singh Mann pointed out that the drug menace had long tarnished Punjab’s image. In response, his government adopted a multi-pronged approach: disrupting drug supply chains, arresting major offenders, rehabilitating victims, and seizing or destroying illegally acquired property of drug smugglers.

As part of the anti-drug campaign, the Chief Minister said that village panchayats have been passing resolutions to declare their villages drug-free.

He stated that his government will not sit idle while smugglers thrive at the cost of the lives of drug victims. Bhagwant Singh Mann added that the state has already snapped drug supply lines and jailed the key players behind this crisis.

For the first time, the Chief Minister said that the illegally acquired properties of drug smugglers are being confiscated or demolished, serving as a strong deterrent to others. Speaking about the agricultural sector, Bhagwant Singh Mann said he had promised to ensure paddy transplantation without the use of tubewells. He expressed pride that canal water has now reached even the remotest villages at the tail ends of the state. He said that since taking office, the government has revived 15,947 water channels across Punjab.

The Chief Minister said that at the time he assumed office, only 21% of canal water was being used for irrigation but today that number has risen to 63%. Bhagwant Singh Mann also mentioned that his government successfully safeguarded Punjab’s water resources from being diverted to other states.

The Chief Minister announced that Punjab has launched the country’s first dedicated Sadak Surakhya Force (Road Safety Force) to enhance highway safety. He said that the force comprises 1,597 specially recruited and trained personnel, including women, and is equipped with 144 modern vehicles. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Since its launch in February last year, road accident fatalities have dropped by 48.10% adding that  Several states and even the Government of India have commended this initiative.

Highlighting another major welfare initiative, the Chief Minister spoke about the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna — the first-of-its-kind scheme in the country that provides cashless medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh for every resident family in Punjab. He proudly stated that Punjab is the first Indian state to offer such comprehensive healthcare coverage, which will significantly ease the financial burden on the public while ensuring quality health services.

The Chief Minister added that his government has created a new benchmark by providing over 55,000 government jobs to youth within just 36 months of taking office. A foolproof and transparent recruitment process based entirely on merit has restored young people’s faith in public service. As a result, many youth have chosen to stay in Punjab and prepare for state government jobs rather than seeking opportunities abroad.

On the occasion Lok Sabha MP Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer and others were also present.

Chandigarh

Inauguration of International Model United Nations Conference at Moti Ram Arya Senior Secondary School

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Chandigarh, July 19

The International Model United Nations Conference was inaugurated today at Moti Ram Arya Senior Secondary School, Sector 27, Chandigarh. Member of Parliament and former Union Minister Shri Manish Tewari graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.

While addressing the gathering, MP Tewari emphasized the crucial role of youth in nation-building. He remarked that the youth are the future of our country, and such events play a vital role in honing their capabilities. He also expressed his appreciation to the school management for organizing such meaningful initiatives that contribute to the all-round development of students.

During his address, Mr. Tewari shared personal experiences and stressed the importance of discipline in life, noting that only a disciplined individual can successfully achieve his goals.

He also extended special thanks to Chander Mukhi Sharma for his continued efforts in spreading the light of education. Prior to the address, the school management presented a token of appreciation to MP Tewari.

Among those present on the occasion were Mr. Anil Mahajan (President, School Management Committee), Ms. Rachna Mahajan (Director), Dr. Seema Biji (Principal), Mr. Prateek Joshi (Program Coordinator), and Mr. Dakshesh Sharma, among others.

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