Chandigarh 2 May 2025:
The Sixteenth Punjab Legislative Assembly has been summoned by the Governor of Punjab to meet for its 9th Special Session on Monday, the 05th May, 2025 at 11.00 A.M. in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha Hall, Vidhan Bhavan, Chandigarh.
Category Archives: Chandigarh
Drive against corruption : Case registered against ex-MLA’s son, daughter-in-law, EO and two others for embezzlement in funds
Chandigarh May 2, 2025 – The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB), during its ongoing drive against corruption in the state, has registered a case against son and daughter-in-law of ex-MLA from Tarntaran including Executive Officer (EO) and Clerk of Nagar Council Tarntaran and a firm owner for committing embezzlement in the funds of Council. In this case, the above said accused EO, Clerk and a firm owner have been arrested.
Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the state VB said in this regard a case was registered based on a Vigilance Enquiry resulting from the checking conducted by Local Government department and later the case was entrusted to the VB for further probe. Afterwards, based on the investigation an FIR No. 22, Dated 02.05.2025 under section 13(2) read with 13(1) of prevention of corruption act and under section 409, 420, 465, 467, 468, 471, 120-B of IPC was registered against the accused at VB Police Station Vigilance Bureau, Range Amritsar.
He informed that the accused involved in this case included Sharanjeet Kaur, Executive Officer, (Now suspended) and Narinder Kumar, Clerk, of Nagar Council Tarn Taran, Ex-MLA Dharamvir Agnihotri’ son Sandeep Kumar Agnihotri and his daughter-in-law Jyoti Sachdeva, owner of M/s MK Padam Petroleum and Rajiv Gupta, a resident of New Pawan Nagar, Amritsar, a shareholder in M/s Sharp Focus vision Pvt. Ltd and M/s SR Enterprises Ltd.
in this case Sharanjeet Kaur, EO and Narinder Kumar, Clerk, both posted in Nagar Council, Tarntaran and aforementioned Rajiv Gupta, shareholder in M/s Sharp Focus vision Pvt. Ltd and M/s SR Enterprises Ltd have been arrested.
The spokesperson revealed that during the probe it has came to light that fraudulent transactions were done by the said EO during the years from 2017-2022. She had made wrong payments through cheques to M/s Sidhu Construction company, M/s Brother Construction company and M/s Friends Association from different heads. In addition to this, by colluding with Sandeep Kumar Agnihotri son of ex-MLA Dharamvir Agnihotri, the accused EO had issued bogus payments to his companies M/s Sharp Focus vision Pvt. Ltd and M/s SR Enterprises.
He further informed that during the checking conducted by Local Government department Punjab, the recovery was made of the above said bogus payments but an amount of Rs 27,88,000 are still pending. During the enquiry, it was found that Sandeep Kumar Agnihotri also got bogus payments of Rs 4,41,03,086 issued in the name of M/s MK Padam Petroleum owned by his wife Jyoti Sachdeva. Afterwards, Sandeep Agnihotri had deposited part of this bogus payment back to the accounts of Nagar Council Tarntaran, but Rs 35,45,404 are still pending. After adjustment of pending bills, a total outstanding amount of Rs 1,05,30,628 was found pending towards M/s MK Padam Petroleum. Apart from this, according to the department inspection report provided by the Principal Secretary, Local Government, Punjab, EO Sharanjit Kaur had issued payments to Clerk Rajeev Kumar, (now deceased), posted at her office and above said Clerk Narinder Kumar without any bills or work orders.
It was evident from the facts that EO Sharanjit Kaur, in connivance with said Sandeep Kumar Agnihotri, had misused her position and had made illegal payments to his fictitious firms M/s. Sharp Fox Vision Pvt. Ltd. and M/s S.R. Enterprises. Besides this, it was also found that payments amounting to Rs 14,61,980, Rs 3,25,000 and Rs 2,09,400 were made to diffident firms without any tenders or quotations.
The spokesperson added that the case is under investigation and role of private persons, who received bogus payments, would be verified during the inquiry. The accused would be produced before the competent court tomorrow.
Punjab Government Disburses Loans Worth ₹7 Crore to Backward Classes and Economically Weaker Sections: Dr. Baljit Kaur
Chandigarh, May 2:
Under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is consistently working towards the welfare and upliftment of every section of society. Giving details in this regard, Social Justice, Empowerment, and Minorities Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur informed that during the year 2024-25, the State Government has disbursed loans amounting to ₹7 crore to empower the youth belonging to backward classes, minority communities, and economically weaker sections, enabling them to become self-reliant.
Providing further information, Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that through various schemes of the Punjab Backward Classes Land Development and Finance Corporation (Backfinco), loans have been provided to 248 beneficiaries so far, allowing them to start their own businesses or self-employment ventures, thereby improving their family income and standard of living.
The Minister added that the Punjab Government is making continuous efforts to uplift the backward and minority communities in economic, social, and educational spheres, ensuring their active participation in the mainstream of society.
She further informed that any individual between the age of 18 to 55 years, with an annual income of up to ₹3 lakh, can avail of loans for self-employment, higher education, or other needs under these schemes.
Dr. Baljit Kaur said that several new initiatives are being implemented by the State Government for the progress of backward and minority communities, which will contribute towards building a prosperous and vibrant Punjab.
In conclusion, the Minister appealed to eligible individuals from backward classes and minority communities to contact their nearest District Social Justice Office or Backfinco office to avail of the benefits of these schemes. For more information, people can also visit the department’s official website at www.backfinco.punjab.gov.in.
Over 22000 Booth Level Awareness Groups Activated Across Punjab to Promote Electoral Literacy: Sibin C
Chandigarh, May 2:
Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Punjab, Sibin C stated today that 22,520 Booth Level Awareness Groups (BAGs) have been activated across the State of Punjab to enhance voter awareness and participation in the electoral process. These groups will play a pivotal role in spreading electoral literacy at the grassroots level.
He said that Booth Level Awareness Groups (BAGs) are constituted at each polling booth level by the Booth Level Officer (BLO) and comprise of heads/representatives of School/Colleges in the Booth area, local volunteers, educators, students, and NGO/self-help group members. Their primary objective is to educate voters about the importance of voting, how to register as a voter and verify their details on the electoral roll, and ensure voter facilitation during elections.
Speaking about the initiative, CEO Punjab, said, “BAGs are the backbone of our voter awareness program at the booth level. With over 22,000 BAGs getting activated across Punjab, we are ensuring that every eligible voter is informed, empowered, and encouraged to participate in the electoral process. These groups will bridge the gap between the Election Commission and the electorate, fostering a more inclusive and participative democracy.”
The CEO also emphasized that the activation of huge number of Booth Awareness Groups (BAGs) under the Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) program will help in carrying out extensive activities during the elections, including door-to-door awareness campaigns, street plays, poster exhibitions, and community meetings to boost voter turnout.
The Election Commission of India remains committed to ensuring “No Voter is Left Behind”, and the Booth Level Awareness Groups are a crucial part of making this vision a reality in Punjab.
Zero tolerance against corruption : ASI arrested taking Rs 15000 bribe
Chandigarh May 2, 2025 –
The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB), in line with the zero tolerance policy adopted by the Punjab government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has apprehended an Assistant Sub Inspector (ASI) Sanjay Kumar, posted at Police Station Division No. 8, Police Commissionerate Jalandhar, red-handed while accepting a bribe of Rs. 15,000.
Disclosing this here today an official spokesperson of the state VB said the arrest was made based on a complaint made by a resident of village Reru, in Jalandhar district.
He further informed that the complainant approached the VB alleging that the said police personnel had demanded a bribe of Rs. 50,000 by threatening to re-nominate him under section 249 of the BNS in a case for allegedly harbouring his son, against whom a police case had been registered at the said police station.
Notably, the complainant’s name was initially included in the FIR for harbouring his son but was later removed following a police inquiry. However, the aforementioned ASI continued to threaten him to re-nominate under section 249 BNS in the same case. The complainant alleged that the accused ASI had already taken Rs 25000 in this regard and demanding the remaining amount of bribe.
The spokesperson added that after a preliminary verification of this complaint the VB team laid a trap during which the said ASI was caught red handed while he was accepting a bribe of Rs 15000 as a second instalment from the complainant in the presence of two official witnesses. In this regard a case under Prevention of Corruption Act and under section 308 (2) of BNS has been registered at VB Police Station, Vigilance Bureau, Range Jalandhar. The accused would be produced in the competent court tomorrow and further investigation into this case was under progress, he said.
Harjot Bains Makes Second Straight Visit to Nangal Dam, Vows to Block Excess Water Release to Haryana
Chandigarh/ Nangal, May 2:
Punjab Education and Information & Public Relations Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains and Deputy Speaker of Punjab Vidhan Sabha S. Jai Krishan Singh Rouri, on Friday evening, visited Nangal Dam to ensure that Punjab’s water won’t go to Haryana. They also met the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) workers, safeguarding the dam around the clock, besides taking updates from officials on the current situation. Notably, Harjot Bains visited the dam for the 2nd day in row.
While addressing the media, S. Harjot Singh Bains asserted that Punjab Government won’t share a single drop of Punjab’s water with Haryana or any other state. He accused the BJP-led Centre of plotting against Punjab’s economy and praised the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s strong stance against BBMB’s move to loot waters of Punjab. The all-party meeting and special Assembly session demonstrate the state government’s commitment to safeguarding Punjab’s interests, he added.
The Education Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains stated that under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s leadership, AAP workers are safeguarding Punjab’s interests like soldiers. He further informed that the officials posted at BBMB’s Nangal Dam and Nakkian, have been instructed to prevent any excess water from being released to any other states.
S. Bains criticised the Centre’s decision to allocate 8,500 cusecs of extra water to Haryana, saying it was a blatant betrayal with Punjab.
“Water is our lifeline, and we’ll fiercely protect it. Despite Bhakra Dam being in our region and canals originating from here, our villages lack access to water. With paddy season approaching, sharing our water with other states is unthinkable”, S. Bains said while emphasising Punjab’s reliance on agriculture and the crucial role of water in sustaining crops amid depleting groundwater levels. The Centre has consistently discriminated against Punjab, and now BJP-ruled states are following the suit.
S. Harjot Singh Bains pointed out the irony that when Punjab had surplus water during the monsoon season, Haryana and Rajasthan refused to take it. Now, with paddy sowing season approaching, Punjab can’t afford to spare water for other states. He highlighted the state’s efforts to ensure water supply for irrigation, including the Sarthar scheme for villages in Sri Anandpur Sahib constituency and pipeline projects for semi-mountainous areas, benefiting around 10,000 villages.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Speaker Jai Krishan Singh Rouri asserted that Punjabis, having made significant sacrifices for the country, will now stand firm in fighting for their rights. He emphasised that not a single drop of Punjab’s water will be allowed to be diverted outside the state.
पहलगाम पीड़ितों की स्मृति में चंडीगढ़ में हुआ गुरबानी कीर्तन
चंडीगढ़, 2 मई- पहलगाम की त्रासदी में मारे गए निर्दाेष लोगों को श्रद्धांजलि देने के लिए शुक्रवार, सेक्टर 8 के गुरुद्वारे में गुरबानी कीर्तन आयोजित किया गया। इस आध्यात्मिक सभा का आयोजन वर्ल्ड पंजाबी ऑर्गेनाइज़ेशन द्वारा किया गया, जिसमें राष्ट्र की एकता, शांति और मजबूती के लिए प्रार्थना की गई। श्री दरबार साहिब, अमृतसर के प्रसिद्ध हज़ूरी रागी भाई शुभदीप सिंह जी ने कीर्तन किया, जिसके बाद कौमी एकता के लिए विशेष अरदास की गई।
हरियाणा के राज्यपाल श्री बंडारू दत्तात्रेय और पंजाब के राज्यपाल श्री गुलाब चंद कटारिया ने इस मौके पर पीड़ितों और उनके परिवारों के प्रति एकजुटता दिखाते हुए प्रार्थना में भाग लिया।
हरियाणा के राज्यपाल श्री बंडारू दत्तात्रेय ने पहलगाम में हुए आतंकी हमले की निंदा करते हुए कहा कि आतंकवाद के खिलाफ भारत की हमेशा जीरो टालरेंस नीति रही है। इस बुजदिल और घिनौने कृत्य को अंजाम देने वालों पर केन्द्र सरकार द्वारा कठोर कार्यवाही की जाएगी, उन्हें बख्शा नहीं जाएगा।
श्री दत्तात्रेय ने कहा कि आतंकवाद के खिलाफ हमारी लड़ाई अडिग है। सभी धर्म, यहां तक की इस्लाम धर्म और पैगम्बर मोहम्मद भी शांति, प्रेम, करुणा और दया के साथ रहना सिखाते है। मजहब के नाम पर जो हिंसा कर रहे है, इसे हमारे देशवासियों को समझना चाहिए।
उन्होंने हरियाणा के बेटे, लेफ्टिनेंट विनय नरवाल को नमन करते हुए उन परिवारों के प्रति अपनी गहरी संवेदनाएं व्यक्त की जिन्होंने अपने प्रियजनों को खोया है। उन्होंने कहा कि पूरा राष्ट्र इस दुख के समय में उनके साथ खड़ा है।
पंजाब के राज्यपाल श्री गुलाब चंद कटारिया ने कहा कि यह हमला सिर्फ हमारे देश के बहादुर नागरिकों पर नहीं, बल्कि मानवता पर हुआ है। आतंकवाद का कोई धर्म, कोई जाति, कोई मानव मूल्य नहीं होता। यह नफरत की उपज है, जो केवल विनाश और पीड़ा लाती है।
उन्होंने कहा कि ऐसे आतंकवादी हमले सिर्फ एक जंगली सोच का परिणाम होते हैं, जो मासूम और निर्दाेष लोगों की जिंदगी को खत्म कर देते हैं। यह एक दुर्भाग्यपूर्ण घटना है, जो हम सभी के लिए एक कड़वी याद है कि आतंकवाद किस हद तक इंसानियत का विनाश करता है।
इस दौरान राज्यसभा सांसद एवं वर्ल्ड पंजाबी आर्गेनाईजेशन के अंतरराष्ट्रीय अध्यक्ष पद्मश्री डॉ. विक्रमजीत सिंह साहनी, उपाध्यक्ष करन गिलहोत्रा सहित वर्ल्ड पंजाबी आर्गेनाईजेशन के अन्य सदस्य भी कीर्तन में मौजूद रहे।
CM Nayab Singh Saini takes part in ‘Nasha Nahi, Lakshya Banao, Desh Ko Apne Aage Badhao’ programme in Panchkula
CM Nayab Singh Saini takes part in ‘Nasha Nahi, Lakshya Banao, Desh Ko Apne Aage Badhao’ programme in Panchkula
CM takes blessings of saints to make Haryana drug-free
‘Dhaakad’ campaign started in schools, colleges to tackle drug addiction: CM
Chandigarh, May 2 – Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini attended Swami Sampurnanand Brahmachari Ji Maharaj’s ‘katha’ in Indradhanush Auditorium, Sector 5, Panchkula late Friday evening and participated in the programme that focused on ‘Nasha Nahi, Lakshya Banao, Desh Ko Apne Aage Badhao’. The Chief Minister sought blessings from the saints for the success of the campaign to make the state drug-free and asked them to inspire the youth to keep away from drugs through their teachings.
On this occasion, Cooperative and Tourism Minister Dr. Arvind Sharma, Public Health Engineering and Public Works Minister Sh. Ranbir Gangwa, Kalka MLA Smt. Shakti Rani Sharma, Panchkula Mayor Sh. Kulbhushan Goyal, Senior Sangh Pracharak Sh. Prem Ji Goyal, Former Speaker of Haryana Legislative Assembly Sh. Gian Chand Gupta, BJP State Vice President Smt. Banto Kataria, besides saints from Vrindavan and Goa were present.
The Chief Minister said that this programme dedicated to the youth by Pujya Sampurnanand Brahmachari ji will give new inspiration to the youth to make the state drug free. He said that when the blessings of the saints are with us, he is confident that the evil of drug addiction will be eradicated from Haryana.
The Chief Minister said that it is his great fortune that he got the opportunity to participate in such a movement today.
He said that he remembers that a conference against drug addiction was organized in this auditorium on June 26, 2023 on International Anti-Drug Day. In that, the then Chief Minister Sh. Manohar Lal had prayed to the saints to save the society from this evil. At that time, the saints had assured full cooperation.
The Chief Minister said that conference was organized by the government, but today, the saints themselves have organized this conference to end drug addiction.
The Chief Minister said he had seen a similar scene in the state level cycle rally organized against drug addiction recently. He flagged off that rally from Hisar on April 5. After this, he also participated in the programmes of this rally in Faridabad and Jind. That 23-day cycle rally organized from April 5 to April 27 covered a total distance of 2010 kilometers. A total of 5.43 lakh people participated in it, out of which 3.41 lakh cycled. On April 27, the youth who participated in the closing ceremony of this rally in Sirsa were honoured.
The Chief Minister said that a programme “Dhaakad” has been started at the level of schools, colleges, universities and other educational institutions to save children and youth from drug addiction. We have established an inter-state drug secretariat in Panchkula. Anti-narcotics cells have been established at district, range and state level in Haryana to effectively curb drug smuggling and sale, he added.
The Chief Minister said Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi has also described drug addiction as a symbol of 3D i.e. Darkness, Destruction and Devastation. The Prime Minister has urged the youth not to consider drug addiction as ‘cool’ or ‘style statement’, because it is an illusion which leads them to destruction.
The Chief Minister said today, when we are moving forward with the resolution of ‘Viksit Haryana, Viksit Bharat’, then we have to fight against everything that pushes our society backwards. Drug addiction leads the future of our youth towards darkness.
The Chief Minister expressed his gratitude to Pujya Sant Swami Sampurnanand Ji Maharaj for the anti-drug campaign and giving the right direction to the youth.
On this occasion, Additional Deputy Commissioner Smt. Nisha Yadav, Nagaradhis Vishwanath, besides officers of various departments and dignitaries were present.
Gurbani Kirtan Organised in Chandigarh to Honour Victims of Pahalgam Tragedy
Chandigarh:
A solemn Gurbani Kirtan was held at Gurdwara Sahib, Sector 8, Chandigarh, to pay tribute to the innocent lives lost in the recent Pahalgam tragedy.
Organised by World Punjabi Organisation under the leadership of Dr. Vikramjit Singh Sahney, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha and International President WPO, and Mr. Karan Gilhotra Vice President, WPO Chandigarh the spiritual ceremony was dedicated to prayers for peace, national unity, and the strength of the country during this time of collective mourning.
Governor of Punjab Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, Governor of Punjab, and Haryana Governor Shri Bandaru Dattatraya, joined the congregation to offer their respects and express solidarity with the victims and their families.
Punjab Governor Sh. Kataria stated that This is not just an attack on the people of India but on the very spirit of humanity. Terrorism is a manifestation of hatred that leads only to destruction and sorrow. This tragedy is a grim reminder of the devastating cost of terrorism.
MP Dr. Sahney stated that This despicable terrorist act must not go unpunished. The perpetrators must be identified and subjected to the severest of penalties to ensure that no one dares to repeat such a barbaric crime against humanity. “This Kirtan and Ardaas symbolise our shared grief and our collective hope. Through prayer, we seek solace for the bereaved families and renew our commitment to peace and unity in society.” Dr. Sahney added.
Haryana Governor Shri Bandaru Dattatraya strongly condemned the brutal terrorist attack, calling it a shameful and inhuman act against innocent civilians. He expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, stating that the pain and grief of the victims is shared by the entire nation.
From Addiction to Entrepreneurship: Punjab Govt-Sun Foundation Join Hands to Illuminate Path to Recovery
Chandigarh, May 1:
In a major push to combat drug addiction amidst the ongoing “Yudh Nasheyan Virudh” to make Punjab drug free state as per vision of AAP’s National Convener Arvind Kejriwal and under able leadership of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab Government has partnered with the “Sun Foundation” to provide skill development at the 19 Government Drug Rehabilitation Centres running in the state. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in the presence of Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh and Member of Parliament (MP) S. Vikramjeet Singh Sahney, Chairman of the Sun Foundation, today here at Punjab Bhawan.
Underscoring his dedication to this critical cause, MP Vikramjeet Singh Sahney announced a contribution of Rs 1 crore from his MPLAD funds to bolster the drug rehabilitation centres. The foundation will also provide manpower and bear maintenance cost of the skill centres.
The Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh praised MP Sahney’s contribution as a crucial step in the state’s “Yudh Nasheyan Virudh” initiative, while conveying his appreciation to MP Sahney for his dedication in creating a drug-free Punjab.
Highlighting Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s vision, Dr. Balbir Singh emphasised the government’s focus on tackling the alarmingly high relapse rate of 80-90% by integrating robust skill development and engaging the drug victims with recreational activities at the rehabilitation centres. He also lauded the government’s progressive decision to decriminalise drug abusers, treating them as patients in need of care.
Dr. Balbir Singh detailed the government’s harm reduction strategy, which focuses on moving intravenous drug users to safer alternatives such as tablets and liquid methadone to combat the spread of HIV and Hepatitis C. He stated, “My vision is to transform drug addicts into entrepreneurs through targeted skill development,” envisioning a “positive domino effect” where those rehabilitated become productive members of society.
Dr. Balbir Singh also extended his wishes on International Labour Day and paid tribute to the martyrs of the 1886 Chicago labourers’ strike.
MP Vikramjeet Singh Sahney, Chairman of the Sun Foundation, addressed the misrepresentation of Punjab as solely a drug-afflicted state, acknowledging the widespread nature of the problem across India, including states like Maharashtra and Gujarat. He affirmed his “heartfelt desire” to help Punjab overcome this challenge and announced the Sun Foundation’s commitment to operating 19 drug rehabilitation centres. Notably, the Sun Foundation already successfully manages three such centres in Amritsar, Jalandhar, and Mohali.
MP Sahney said that Sun Foundation will implement recreational, motivational, and spiritual activities within the centres, emphasising games, yoga, music, Gurbani, television-equipped recreation rooms, and counselling. Furthermore, a strong focus will be placed on skilling individuals in areas such as organic farming, plumbing, electrical work, mobile repair, and cookery, empowering them to secure livelihoods post-treatment and reducing the risk of relapse.
Secretary Health and Family Welfare cum Nodal Officer Anti-Drug Campaign Basant Garg, Director Dr. Hitinder Kaur, Assistant Director Dr. Sandeep Bhola, and other senior health officials were also present on the occasion.