Rampur SP says 'true Muslim' won't engage in cow slaughter, issues clarification after furore

Rampur Superintendent of Police Anil Kumar Singh Sisodia sparked controversy by stating that a "true Muslim" would not engage in cow slaughter, a comment seen as inflammatory. He later clarified that his intention was to promote social harmony and avoid hurting religious sentiments during the Shravan month, citing guidance from Darul Uloom Deoband on respectful practices.

₹3 lakh relief to New Chandigarh flat buyer over delayed possession

The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, Mohali, has ordered Address Infrastructure Private Limited to deliver a flat in New Chandigarh following significant delays in possession. The builder must pay ₹3 lakh in compensation and interest for the buyer's additional living expenses. This decision arose from a complaint by Arvinder Arora, who booked the flat in June 2022.

Chandigarh: Mothers first line of defence against drugs, says Kataria

Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria emphasized mothers as the primary defense against drug addiction at a recent workshop, urging them to take proactive roles in safeguarding their children. He noted the necessity of collective efforts from families and society in combating drug abuse. Highlighting Punjab's heritage, Kataria called for educational initiatives to bolster this cause.

Panchkula: Domestic help held for stealing cash, gold, diamond jewellery

A domestic worker was arrested for stealing gold and diamond jewellery worth ₹22.5 lakh within six hours of the crime in Sector-16 on August 5. The accused, who had worked for the complainant for seven years, was identified through prior police verification. Prompt police action led to the recovery of the stolen items and cash. Authorities emphasize the importance of timely police verification for domestic workers to enhance safety and prevent theft.

GMADA to upgrade online land pooling portal, new features to come up by August 11

The Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) plans to enhance its online land pooling portal following landowner feedback, addressing technical issues that limited application success. With upgrades by August 11, features like draft-saving and mixed plot options will be added. This initiative aims to simplify the application process for the Aerotropolis residential project, expected to yield 7,000 applications.

Mohali: Ensure promised amenities are provided, promoter told

The Punjab Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) has mandated the Opera Garden promoters to fulfill incomplete amenities, secure residents' rights, and return interest-free maintenance security to residents. Complaints highlighted extensive deficiencies, prompting RERA’s intervention under the Real Estate Act. Despite ongoing disputes, RERA affirmed the residents' association's right to file grievances and clarified maintenance responsibilities.

Punjab government pensioners’ protest cause traffic chaos in Chandigarh

Employees and pensioners from the Punjab Mulazam and Pensioner Sanjha Front protested near Chandigarh, demanding the release of an 18% pending dearness allowance and restoration of the Old Pension Scheme. The protest, halted by police barricades, caused traffic chaos but emphasized broader family involvement. Union leaders criticized the AAP government for unmet promises, prompting this mobilization for employee rights.

Chandigarh: Kin of persons with mental disabilities seek implementation of 2017 act

Families of individuals with mental disabilities, along with psychiatrists, urged Chandigarh to implement the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017, citing significant flaws in the Group Home for mental health patients. The Chandigarh Mental Health Authority remains unestablished, hindering crucial registration and grievance processes. Advocates demand improved staffing and care standards, and they plan to meet with local officials to address these issues.

Woman sues Mercedes after metallic AMG logo allegedly burns her skin

Mercedes drivers, including plaintiffs Karandeep Bath and Gabriel Lahijani, are suing the company over a design defect involving the metallic AMG logo badge on vehicle seats, which allegedly caused burns. Lahijani experienced severe pain and a second-degree burn after contacting the logo. Social media reactions vary, with some supporting the lawsuit while others express skepticism.

Chandigarh: No proof liver disease was alcohol induced, insurer told to settle claim

A Chandigarh commission has ordered Star Health to reimburse ₹6 lakh to the family of a deceased policyholder after rejecting the insurer's claim denial, citing unsubstantiated alcohol-related exclusions. The commission found no credible evidence linking cirrhosis solely to alcohol. The policyholder, Charanjit Singh, had a history of health coverage and incurred significant medical expenses before his passing.

Chandigarh: Digital museum at Le Corbusier Centre gets heritage panel’s nod

The Chandigarh Heritage Conservation Committee (CHCC) approved a digital museum proposal at the Le Corbusier Centre under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme 2.0, enhancing visitor experience while preserving the heritage. The project involves minimal intervention to the structure and incorporates recommended safeguards. Additionally, the committee deferred a zoning plan for the Capitol Complex buffer zone, emphasizing its heritage protection.

‘Passed without discussion’: Chandigarh MC chief orders fact-finding report into ₹227-crore table agenda

Amid controversy over a ₹227-crore agenda passed without discussion at the July 31 municipal corporation meeting, MC commissioner Amit Kumar has ordered a fact-finding report. Concerns arose as the agenda lacked expenditure details and was approved without prior notice to councillors. Mayor Saurabh Joshi has called for its withdrawal for transparency in future discussions.

Chandigarh: Congress brings Bansal back into key panel, Tewari in-charge of poll panel

Ahead of December's municipal elections, Congress has appointed former MP Pawan Kumar Bansal to a political affairs committee, while Manish Tewari leads the State Election Committee crucial for electoral preparations. This arrangement aims to balance party dynamics post-2024 Lok Sabha tensions. As grassroots efforts intensify, candidate selection and managing internal dissent will be vital for success. Bansal has a history of ministerial roles under the UPA.

Asst postmaster arrested for embezzling ₹1.40 cr in Sambhal

An assistant postmaster in Sambhal, Deepak Kumar, was arrested for allegedly embezzling ₹1.40 crore through misappropriation of funds from savings accounts and fixed deposits, transferring the stolen money to online gaming platforms like Dream11 using forged documents. The fraud surfaced after several victims reported missing funds, leading to seven FIRs and a broader investigation into potential additional misconduct within the postal department.

EC extends SIR deadline, BLOs get nine more days

The Election Commission extended Karnataka's electoral roll revision deadline to August 17, prompting a new draft publication date of August 24 due to nearly half of Bengaluru's electors marked as ASDDO. Approximately 46.5% of Bengaluru’s electors are categorized as such, significantly surpassing the statewide average. This revision aims to enhance voter accuracy ahead of upcoming elections.

Punjab govt to host 41 free ‘Hamare Ram’ performance in 12 cities: Mann

The Punjab government launched a cultural initiative with the play “Hamare Ram” in Mohali, featuring 41 free performances in 12 cities this August and September, announced Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Aimed at promoting cultural heritage and Lord Ram’s teachings, the initiative seeks to inspire youth through theatre while preserving Punjab's diverse traditions and values.

Sukhbir meets Modi, rekindles SAD-BJP alliance talks ahead of Punjab elections

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stirring speculation about a potential alliance for the 2027 Punjab elections after their 2020 split over controversial farm laws. The meeting, significant amidst rising political activity, discussed Punjab issues but resulted in no formal statement. Background shows both parties have faced electoral struggles since separating.

Upa Lokayukta takes sou motu action against 54 officials over Hampi homestays violations

The Karnataka Upa Lokayukta has launched proceedings against 54 officials for failing to stop unauthorized homestays in Hampi's protected areas. An inspection revealed over 250 illegal tourism establishments lacking necessary approvals. Justice B. Veerappa emphasized the seriousness of these violations, citing Supreme Court directives. The inquiry will assess how permissions were granted and why enforcement failed. Hampi's strict regulations prohibit unauthorized commercial activities to protect its heritage.

Horatti quits after govt threatens no confidence motion

Karnataka Legislative Council chairman Basavaraj Horatti resigned after facing pressure from the Congress government, which threatened a no confidence motion. Following a meeting with Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, Horatti agreed to step down, respecting political developments. With Congress now holding a majority, new leadership elections are set for August 14. Horatti, a veteran MLC, has served for 46 years.

Search resumes for 3 fishermen missing after separate boat mishaps in Kerala

Searches for three missing fishermen from Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam resumed after family protests intensified on Saturday. The missing individuals—Gautam Krishna, John, and Shijin—disappeared following separate mishaps on July 31. State officials and locals, including the Transport Minister, are expanding efforts with additional boats and helicopters, responding to public outcry and demands for improved rescue operations.

Chandigarh looks to acquire 1,750 acres in periphery

The UT plans to acquire nearly 1,750 acres of land for development at an estimated cost of ₹14,000 crore, with allocations for institutional, residential, and commercial uses. This move responds to farmers' demands for a land pooling policy to safeguard their interests. The proposal, still under consultation, aligns with models from Punjab and Haryana to resolve existing land-use conflicts.

Over Remarks against House: CM TN speaker rejects apology, to refer DMK MLA to House panel

DMK MLA Markandayan G V appealed to the Tamil Nadu Assembly to overlook his derogatory remarks against the House and Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, made during a public meeting on July 18. Assembly Speaker J.C.D. Prabhakar plans to refer the incident to the Privileges Committee, emphasizing the need to uphold the Assembly's dignity. Markandayan, previously arrested and released on bail, apologized, attributing his comments to unconscious expression influenced by his upbringing.

Meerut visit today: CM to conduct aerial survey of Kanwar route, shower petals on pilgrims

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will visit Meerut on Saturday to participate in the Kanwar Yatra, conducting an aerial survey of the route and showering flower petals on pilgrims. Amid high security, the visit aims to boost the morale of thousands of devotees traversing the busy NH-58. Past visits have fostered enthusiasm among locals and devotees alike.

‘Don’t kill a mosquito with a sword’: HC raps FDA for cancelling Amazon’s licence

The Bombay High Court criticized the Maharashtra FDA's cancellation of Amazon's food license, with judges emphasizing that the agency's heavy-handed tactics are excessive. During an appeal hearing, the court noted a lack of due process in the FDA's actions. The FDA’s aggressive approach has raised concerns in the hospitality industry, prompting questions about its regulatory methods and fairness.

Dense breasts or breast cancer in the family? What screening changes mean for you

Australia is changing its breast cancer screening approach to focus on individual risk rather than age. This personalized method will incorporate factors like breast density, family history, and genetic testing. Phased over the next decade, it aims to improve detection and outcomes. Currently, risk stratification is limited, impacting early intervention opportunities and women's health decisions.

Former TDB chief among 3 booked in Sabarimala ghee case

Former Travancore Devaswom Board president PS Prasanth and two others face charges from a Special Investigation Team over procurement irregularities involving Milma ghee for Sabarimala temple. The FIR, spurred by concerns over tender abandonment and product quality, questions potential misappropriation of funds. Background checks reveal substantial financial discrepancies linked to the temple's ghee procurement process.

Charkhi Dadri firing accused arrested after police encounter

Rohit alias Katiya, a key suspect in the Charkhi Dadri firing incident that injured seven on August 6, was arrested following a police encounter. During a joint operation, he fired at police while attempting to flee, sustaining a bullet wound. Police recovered an illegal firearm and are continuing to investigate others involved. Rohit has a history of six criminal cases.

Rain disrupts normal life in Himachal; 162 roads blocked

Incessant rainfall in Himachal Pradesh has blocked 162 roads, disrupting daily life, particularly in Mandi district, where 56 roads are impassable. The Chandigarh-Manali National Highway faced closures due to landslides. The IMD issued an orange alert for heavy rain on August 10 and 11. The severe weather has also suspended the Kinner Kailash Yatra, affecting around 350 pilgrims.

Polavaram Ph-1 on track for ’27, Centre tells LS

The Centre has limited financial assistance for the Polavaram irrigation project in Andhra Pradesh to approved Phase-I components, restricting water impounding to 41.15 metres, as stated by Union minister Raj Bhushan Chowdary in the Lok Sabha. The approved budget of ₹30,436.95 crore includes ₹12,157.53 crore in central grants, with completion expected by June 2027.

Revenue minister directs power firm to release local area development funds

Revenue, horticulture and tribal development minister Jagat Singh Negi demanded the immediate release of local area development authority (LADA) funds from Goodwill Energy Enterprises for its 29 MW hydropower project in Suru village, highlighting the project's failure to employ locals and address tunnel seepage issues. He also called for urgent repairs to the deteriorating Kutdu–Suru road to ensure safe travel. This meeting addressed longstanding concerns impacting local development.