CHANDIGARH, August 2:

          In order to ensure peaceful celebrations of forthcoming Independence Day-2025 as mandated by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab Police has heightened the security across the state and a fortnight long special operation has been launched to keep vigil around the criminal and anti-social elements.

          As per the directions of Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav, all the CPs/SSPs have been instructed to heighten security measures, increase patrols, and intensify night domination operations in their respective districts.

          Divulging details, Special DGP Law and Order Arpit Shukla said that in these two weeks, CPs/SSPs will conduct different operations on regular basis including anti-terrorist/gangster operations, checking of jails, deployment of nakas at strategic locations, combing operations, etc, will be conducted. The CPs/SSPs have also been instructed to keep a close watch on suspicious activities and individuals, and to take prompt action in case of any security breaches, he said.

          The Special DGP has also issued directions to CPs/SSPs to bolster police presence at public venues and intensify surveillance and patrolling across critical areas in their respective jurisdictions. CPs/SSPs have also been directed to increase the number of police checkpoints in their respective jurisdictions and ensure the checking of a maximum number of vehicles at every Naka, which will help in curtailing terrorist and criminal activities, he added.

          Meanwhile, Police teams have continued its cordon and search operation (CASO) against drugs on Day 154, and conducted raids at 481 locations on Saturday leading to the arrest of 107 drug smugglers after registration of 80 first information reports (FIRs) across the state. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached to 24,325 within 154 days.

          The Special DGP said that the raids have resulted in recovery of 13.9 kg heroin, 500 grams opium and Rs 34,820 drug money 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 511 suspicious persons during the day long operation.

          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 68 persons to undergo de-addiction and rehabilitation treatment today.

Khatkar Kalan (SBS Nagar), July 28:

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday gave clarion call to people to support the state government for making drug and corruption free Punjab as a humble and befitting tribute to Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh.

Addressing the gathering after laying the foundation stone of Shaheed-e-Azam Sardar Bhagat Singh Heritage Complex here today, the Chief Minister said that the state government has launched a crusade against drugs and corruption adding that the big fishes involved in these crimes have been put behind bars. He said that this war has also exposed the ugly face of the traditional parties who have been hand in glove with each other to plunder the state and conduct genocide of youth through drugs. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this war against drugs and corruption can only be successful if the people of the state play a proactive role in it.

The Chief Minister said that as a fact of matter, Captains, Badals, Majithias had continued the ‘dubious legacy’ of their families to backstab Punjab and its people for their vested interests. He said that ancestors of Bikram Singh Majithia, who is behind the bars for his involvement in drug trade, had backstabbed the people by holding dinner for General Dyer on the same night when he had committed the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that similarly, Captain Amarinder Singh, who is very vocal about human rights of his nephew Majithia, and his family has a dubious track record of deceiving Punjab by standing with every force inimical to state whether they were Mughals, Britishers or now BJP.

On the contrary, the Chief Minister said that the state government is making concerted efforts to realize the dreams of Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh to ensure that the fruits of freedom are percolated to every household. He said that it is unfortunate that even after more than 75 years of freedom the benefits of freedom have still not reached every household. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that those in power had misused the freedom to spread the tentacles of chitta (drugs), amass wealth by plundering the masses, encouraging corruption along with other menaces.

The Chief Minister said that the successive Prime Ministers have delivered almost the same statements during their Independence Day speeches from the Red Fort. He said that it is the irony of the country that these leaders have delivered only theatricals to the people and masses are still far away from even basic amenities. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the dreams of Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh have still not been realized as these people have never made any concerted effort for this.

The Chief Minister said that the great martyrs including Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Rajguru, Shaheed Sukhdev, Lala Lajpat Rai, Shaheed Udham Singh, Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha, Mai Bhago, Ghadri Baabe and others don’t need certificate from those in power at centre. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Punjabis have played a great role in national freedom and no NOC from those in power is required for their patriotism. He said that such type of disrespect to these great patriots and national leaders cannot be tolerated at any cost.

The Chief Minister said that this is not a political function but this is a solemn occasion to pay tributes to the great martyrs, who had sacrificed their lives for the sake of the motherland. He said that the state government is making concerted efforts to perpetuate the legacy of these legendary martyrs for our coming generations. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the nation will always be indebted to this martyr who sacrificed his life at a young age of 23 years for emancipating the country from the clutches of British imperialism.

The Chief Minister said that the iconic martyr was not only an individual but an institution adding that we must follow his footsteps for the progress of the country. He said that every endeavor of the state government is aimed at carving a progressive and prosperous Punjab as dreamt by Shaheed Bhagat Singh. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that as MP his every act was inspired by Shaheed-e-Azam as he got the opportunity to represent the people at the same place where Shaheed Bhagat Singh had shaken the mighty British Raj by throwing bombs to make the deaf hear.

The Chief Minister said that for the first time in Punjab’s history, a CM and his entire Cabinet took oath of office on this sacred land of Khatkar Kalan. He said that on March 23, 2022, the martyrdom day of Shaheed Bhagat Singh Ji, an anti-corruption action line was launched from Hussainiwala, marking the beginning of a war against corruption. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that a 30-foot-tall statue of Shaheed-e-Azam Sardar Bhagat Singh Ji was installed at the entrance of the Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport, SAS Nagar (Mohali), in his honor.

The Chief Minister due to strenuous efforts of the state government, the Mohali airport was officially renamed after Shaheed Bhagat Singh Ji. He said that our government has also decided to place portraits of Shaheed Bhagat Singh and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in all government offices. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the motive was to ensure that people of state can draw inspiration from these great personalities to serve the state.

On the occasion, Cabinet Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sondh, MLAs Dr Sukhwinder Kumar Sukhi and Santosh Kataria along with others were also present.

Amritsar, July 22 :

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Tuesday vowed to ensure exemplary punishment for the perpetrators behind the unpardonable crime of sending threatening emails related to Sri Harmandir Sahib.

“People from across the globe visit this sacred place and pray for the progress and security of their families and friends. How can we allow anyone to issue threats to this holy place?” said the Chief Minister after paying obeisance at Sri Harmandir Sahib.

The Chief Minister stated that the state government is thoroughly investigating the matter and has obtained vital clues. He assured that the case would be resolved soon, as the police have already identified the culprits. Scientific verification is underway, and details will be shared upon its completion, added Bhagwant Singh Mann.

The Chief Minister emphasized that the government remains vigilant about the security of this sacred place, which is visited by millions of devotees daily. He added that the state government has also asked the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) for any significant leads in the case. Bhagwant Singh Mann noted that an eagle eye is being kept on the entire situation adding that security in the holy city has already been beefed up.

The Chief Minister urged pilgrims not to panic, assuring them that the Punjab Police is fully alert and capable of handling such matters.

He affirmed that the culprits will not be able to hide anywhere in the world and that the state government will ensure the severest possible punishment for them. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that it is the bounden duty of the state government and no stone will be left unturned for it.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister paid obeisance at Sri Harmandir Sahib and prayed to the Almighty for peace, progress, and prosperity in the state. He said  that not only Sikhs, but every Punjabi draws strength from this land blessed by the great Gurus. Bhagwant Singh Mann expressed hope that the spirit of communal harmony, peace, and brotherhood continues to strengthen in Punjab, and that the state leads the country in every sphere.

Mohali, July 4, 2025: To set anew benchmark in advanced neuro care, Fortis Hospital Mohali has launched a dedicated Biplane Neuro Cathlab. This specialized medical facility is equipped with the most-advanced imaging technology that offers high resolution precision for diagnosing and treating neurovascular conditions. With this, Fortis Hospital Mohali becomes the region’s first private hospital, north of Delhi-NCR to provide this state-of-the-art medical facility for neuro-intervention procedures.

The Biplane Neuro Cathlab boasts two X-ray systems, which allows simultaneous imaging from two different angles, thereby providing detailed 3D visualizations of the brain and spinal cord. This state-of-the-art facility at Fortis Hospital Mohali is the brainchild of Dr Prof Vivek Gupta, Additional Director, Interventional Neuroradiology and Director, Biplane Neuro Cathlab.

Themedical facilitywas inaugurated by Dr Balbir Singh, Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Punjab, in the presence of Ashish Bhatia, Executive Vice-President, Fortis Healthcare Ltd; Abhijit Singh, Head-SBU; Dr Vivek Gupta, and other doctors from the Neurology, Neuro-surgery and Anaesthesia Department.

Lauding the efforts of the Fortis Hospital Mohali management, Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh, said, “Fortis hospital has been known for latest technology and well-trained staff. He said with the launch of biplane Cathlab, it will not only aid in better treatment but will also reduce the stay of the patient in the hospital, which will reduce the expenditure as well.”

Talking about the Biplane Neuro Cathlab, Dr Prof Vivek Gupta, said, “Unlike other Cathlabs, wherein only a single imaging plane was possible at one time, the diagnosis and treatment was delayed for stroke patients. However, the Biplane Neuro Cathlab is equipped with two imaging planes and offers higher resolution and simultaneous imaging from two different angles (front and side). This provides detailed 3D visualizations of the brain and spinal cord. The advanced software in this new system will enable treatment of acute stroke patients by sending them directly to the Biplane Neuro Cathlab from the emergency department, while saving on crucial time. The new technology enables minimally invasive procedures for neuro conditions like aneurysms and strokes. This allows faster diagnosis and treatment.”

Ashish Bhatia, Executive Vice President, Fortis Healthcare, said, “Fortis Hospital Mohali has become the first private hospital in the north region to provide a Biplane Neuro Cathlab. Thisadvancedmedical facility will transform delivery of healthcare servicesfor neurological emergencies and complex neurovascular conditions.”

About Fortis Healthcare

Fortis Healthcare Limited – an IHH Healthcare Berhad Company – is a leading integrated healthcare services provider in India. It is one of the largest healthcare organizations in the country with 27 healthcare facilities, ~4,700 operational beds (including O&M facilities), and over 400 diagnostics centers (including JVs). The Company is listed on the BSE Ltd and National Stock Exchange (NSE) of India. It draws strength from its partnership with a global major and parent company – IHH, to build upon its culture of world-class patient care and superlative clinical excellence. Fortis employs over 23,000 people (including Agilus Diagnostics Limited) who share its vision of becoming the world’s most trusted healthcare network. Fortis offers a full spectrum of integrated healthcare services ranging from clinics to quaternary care facilities and a wide range of ancillary services.

Chandigarh:

The Municipal Corporation Chandigarh conducted a joint cleaning and enforcement drive at Hallomajra. During the drive, approximately 1.2 tons of garbage were lifted, and the area was thoroughly cleaned.

A major focus of the operation was the clearance of an administrative land patch that had been filled with waste and was being misused. The sanitation and enforcement teams removed illegal vendors and encroachments from the site, restoring public space to its intended use and improving hygiene conditions in the locality.

The Municipal Corporation remains committed to maintaining cleanliness and public order across the city. Citizens are urged to support these efforts by avoiding littering and refraining from unauthorized occupation of public land. Similar drives will continue in other areas as part of an ongoing city-wide cleanliness initiative.

Chandigarh 28 June 2025:

Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan administered oath to newly elected MLA Sanjeev Arora today at Punjab Vidhan Sabha Secretariat in the presence of  Manish Sisodia former Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi, Cabinet Minister Aman Arora, Cabinet Minister Harpal Singh Cheema and MLA Budh Ram. Speaker presented literature of Punjab Vidhan Sabha and i-pad to Sanjeev Arora.

Sanjeev Arora took the pledge that he will bear true faith and allegiance to the constitution of India as established by law. He will uphold the sovereignty and integrity of India and faithfully discharge the duties entrusted to him. Sanjeev Arora said that he will take guidance from senior leadership of Aam Aadmi Party and leave no stone unturned for the welfare of his constituency.

The Speaker highlighted that our Government has started live telecast of all the proceedings of the House so that transparency can be maintained in the House. But previous Governments kept the proceedings secret so that people could not become aware about their work. Speaker extended his best wishes to MLA Sanjeev Arora   and expressed the gratitude for all persons who came to the oath taking ceremony.

Speaker and his family members planted saplings in the background of Punjab Vidhan Sabha before the oath taking ceremony of newly elected MLA Sanjeev Arora.

Chandigarh, May 22:

Punjab’s Education and Information & Public Relations Minister, S. Harjot Singh Bains, mourned the demise of renowned scholar and Padma Shri Awardee Dr. Rattan Singh Jaggi, a stalwart in Punjabi and Hindi literature, who passed away today at the age of 98 after a brief illness. Dr. Jaggi is survived by his wife, Dr. Gursharan Kaur Jaggi, retired Principal of Government College for Women, Patiala, and son Sh. Malwinder Singh Jaggi (retired IAS).

In his condolence message, S. Harjot Singh Bains acclaimed Dr. Rattan Singh Jaggi’s remarkable contributions to medieval literature. Dr. Jaggi, former Professor and Head of the Punjabi Literature Studies Department at Punjabi University, Patiala, received numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri (2023), Sahitya Akademi Award (1989), and Punjabi Sahit Shiromani Puraskar, a testament to his dedication to academic excellence and passion for literature, which inspired countless individuals and left a lasting impact.

The Education Minister extended his heartfelt condolences to Dr. Jaggi’s family and friends, saying that Punjab has lost a doyen of the literary world, creating a void in literature that will be difficult to fill. His legacy will remain a source of inspiration for generations to come. He prayed the Almighty to grant eternal peace to the departed soul and give bereaved family the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss.

Nangal (Rupnagar), May 21:

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday said that the state government will flag the issue of  reconstitution of Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) in the meeting of NIti Aayog slated to be held on Saturday.

Addressing the victory rally here today, the Chief Minister said that he will take up this issue in the meeting to be chaired by the Prime Minister. He said that as the level of water is changing frequently so every water agreement should be reviewed after every 25 years. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Punjab is a landlocked border state which has already over explored its only available natural resources in terms of water and fertile soil to feed the country.

However, the Chief Minister bemoaned that the manner in which BBMB became a party to snatch the legitimate share of waters of the state is unfortunate and highly condemnable. He said that Haryana had exhausted its share of water in the March of this year but the BBMB acted as a puppet in the hand of the centre government and Haryana government to snatch the waters of the state. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that in an unprecedented manner, the Chairman of BBMB himself came to Nangal to steal the waters of the state, a move which was thwarted by the people of the state.

The Chief Minister said that this is the same BBMB which had taken Rs 32 crore from Punjab for its very existential projects adding that this money was never returned to the state. He said that Punjab owes nearly Rs 150 crore (Rs 142 crore to be precise) from BBMB adding that the state government will soon stake claim for recovery of this money. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that 3000 posts of Punjab’s quota have not been deliberately filled by BBMB so as to weaken the state’s claim over the waters.

However, the Chief Minister said that momentum will be made for filling these posts at earliest so that interests of the state can be safeguarded. He said that even the townships like Nangal that were aesthetically designed have been ruined due to the neglect of the BBMB which is really deplorable. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the BBMB played in the hands of the centre to snatch the waters of the state but the brave, hard working and resilient farmers of the state foiled their nefarious attempts.

The Chief Minister categorically said that Punjabis have proved that if the state can protect the borders of the country they can aptly save the waters of state too. He said that Punjab has a glorious history of making supreme sacrifices to protect the 532 kilometres long border with Pakistan. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that this time also Punjabis were at the forefront giving a befitting reply to the Pakistani Army and on the other hand they saved the share of their water too.

The Chief Minister said that for around 20 days the hard working and vigilant people of the state didn’t allow Haryana and centre to steal even a single drop of water from Punjab. He said that for years, Punjab’s water has been diverted to other states through the BBMB adding that hands of Congress, Akalis and BJP were drenched with blood of Punjabis as these parties have backstabbed them by ignoring the water rights of the state for vested interests. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the earlier leaders of Punjab had backstabbed the people on several issues by giving importance to their own interests over that of state.

He said that a former Chief Minister got a plot in Gurgaon, where they have a hotel today, for planning the Satluj Yamuna Link (SYL) river and issuing its survey order. Bhagwant Singh Mann also said that self proclaimed savior of Punjab waters and former Chief Minister had presented silver spade to the then Prime Minister for the ground breaking ceremony of SYL at Kapoori. The Chief Minister said that BBMB was originally established to manage the waters of the Sutlej and Beas rivers but over years, Punjab’s water has been diverted to other states through the BBMB adding that the BJP government has started using this board for its political interests.

Describing BBMB as a white elephant, the Chief Minister said that it is totally useless and unacceptable in the present form adding that Punjab will never accept it now. He said that it is ironic that employees of other states are being paid from the exchequer of state and they harm the interests of Punjab only. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that even the BBMB uses the money of the state to fight legal battles against Punjab, which is highly deplorable.

Batting for Yamuna Satluj Link (YSL) instead of Satluj Yamuna Link canal, the Chief Minister said that Satluj river has already dried up and there is no question of sharing even a single drop of water from it. Rather, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that water from Ganga and Yamuna should be supplied to Punjab through Satluj river. He said that this is the only viable alternative which can be considered in wake of the alarming situation of water scarcity in the state.

The Chief Minister said that despite being smaller in area, Haryana is getting more water than Punjab and ironically it is demanding more water at the cost of Punjab. In wake of this fact, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that how can we give water to Haryana if our own fields are starving for it. He said that today, nearly 60% of the state’s farmlands are irrigated through canals, which makes every drop of Punjab’s water extremely valuable.

The Chief Minister said that Punjab no longer has any surplus water to give to any other state. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that on April 6, Haryana requested water from Punjab for drinking purposes. He said that showing generosity, Punjab gave 4,000 cusecs of water from its share to Haryana, as our Gurus have taught us that giving water to the thirsty is a great act of virtue.

On the occasion Cabinet Minister Harjot Singh Bains welcomed the Chief Minister and other dignitaries. Meanwhile, Cabinet Minister Barinder Goyal thanked all the dignitaries and people who had attended the rally.