Punjab BJP chief Kewal Dhillon meets PM, flags devp, law and order issues

Punjab BJP president Kewal Singh Dhillon met Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss pressing issues in the state, including law and order, the economy, and farmer concerns. Dhillon emphasized a positive dialogue, with Modi acknowledging Punjab's challenges. He criticized the AAP government's failures, highlighting economic distress and industrial decline impacting youth employment opportunities.

Don’t allow yoga sessions in gurdwaras: Jathedar

Akal Takht's acting jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj stated that yoga sessions are not permitted in gurdwaras, emphasizing that such practices contradict Sikhism. During a discourse at Golden Temple, he addressed concerns over yoga programs, clarifying that while individuals may practice yoga at home, gurdwaras should focus on Gurbani and the Shabad, maintaining their spiritual sanctity.

Massive fire destroys gurdwara in Adelaide

A massive fire destroyed Gurdwara Dashmesh Darbar in Virginia, Australia, on Sunday night, with no casualties reported. Over 60 firefighters worked to contain the blaze, preventing it from spreading. Akal Takht formed a panel to investigate, urging the Sikh community to enhance safety measures. Concerns remain regarding potential damage to the Guru Granth Sahib.

Farmers protest in Hisar, seek 2 weeks of canal water supply per month

Hundreds of farmers in Hisar launched a 24-hour sit-in protest demanding the release of canal water for two weeks monthly and addressing irrigation grievances. Organized by various farmer associations, they cited water shortages and poor canal maintenance. Leader Satish Beniwal criticized illegal diversions and delays in fertilizer availability, warning of intensified protests if demands remain unmet.

MLA Ayali offers Dakha seat to Paramjit Kaur Khalra

Manpreet Singh Ayali, leader of Akali Dal Waris Punjab De, has offered to step aside for Paramjit Kaur Khalra to contest the Punjab assembly polls from Dakha, viewing her candidacy as a “pride and honour” for the constituency. Paramjit, an advocate for human rights following her husband’s 1995 disappearance, gained attention linked to the film “Satluj.” Ayali emphasized his commitment to Panthic unity and Punjab's welfare over personal gain.

‘Majority of liver failure patients in PGIMER due to hepatitis A’: Doctors

Post Graduate Institute reports a troubling rise in acute liver failure cases due to hepatitis A, noted Dr. Madhumita Premkumar. This trend has worsened over the past few years, prompting increased awareness efforts on World Hepatitis Day, July 28. The clinic sees 800-1000 patients yearly; testing becomes crucial for early diagnosis and effective treatment.

Haryana launches online system for digitally certified land records

In a bid to enhance efficiency and transparency, the Haryana government has introduced an online system for obtaining land-related documents like jamabandi and sale deeds without visiting revenue offices. Citizens can apply digitally via the revenue department portal, with a standard fee and tracking ID for each application. This reform aims to streamline processes and minimize delays in accessing land records while reinforcing accountability.

Uttar Pradesh asked to prepare Yamuna clean-up plan, complete projects by Jan 2028

Uttar Pradesh must develop a time-bound action plan to complete sewage treatment and pollution control projects by January 2028, part of the Centre’s Yamuna rejuvenation initiative. Key contributors to Yamuna pollution, especially from Ghaziabad and Loni, are under scrutiny, while enforcement actions against illegal industries have intensified. The state's complaints about inadequate water allocation persist, emphasizing the urgency of cleanup efforts.

HSGMC takes over management of Miri Piri medical institute

The Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (HSGMC) has peacefully taken over the Miri Piri Institute of Medical Sciences after a lack of response from the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee regarding management transition. HSGMC plans to clear pending staff salaries and resume hospital operations while addressing misinformation about financial needs. The move aims to ensure efficient functioning of the medical college.

School open after summer vacations in Kashmir; MeT predicts rains from July 28

Schools in Kashmir resumed on Monday after a 21-day summer break, despite a forecast for heavy rain starting Tuesday. Classrooms buzzed with activity as teachers eager to cover lost time commenced lessons. The summer break was extended due to weather. Meteorologists predict intense rainfall through the end of July, raising concerns about flash floods and landslides.

Mohali businessman alleges abduction, ₹3 lakh robbery in Zirakpur

A businessman, Vinod Kumar, was allegedly abducted and robbed of ₹2.9 lakh by four men on VIP Road, Zirakpur. The accused, led by a known associate, Akshay, assaulted him and demanded ₹5 lakh. After a harrowing ordeal, including threatening him and fleeing after a police barricade incident, a case has been registered, but no arrests have occurred.

Small talk acts like social glue – here’s how to get better at it

Small talk, often perceived as superficial, serves essential social functions, fostering connection and relationship-building. While concerns arise about declining conversational skills post-pandemic, small talk continues to evolve, adapting to modern life and technology, including AI. It remains crucial for interaction, rapport-building, and nurturing communities, emphasizing the importance of genuine engagement in social exchanges.

Omar slams Mehbooba over violence against Kashmiris remark, seeks apology

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah criticized PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti for justifying injustices in Kashmir with her “banta hai” statement amid militant conflicts, demanding an apology to the people of Kashmir. He condemned her remarks regarding police actions in Delhi, highlighting the lack of accountability. Omar reiterated past grievances, asserting that her comments could suppress local protests and morale.

Chandigarh mayor holds public hearing on civic issues

Mayor Saurabh Joshi chaired a public hearing, ‘janta darbar’, where numerous citizens, including representatives from Resident Welfare Associations and traders’ associations, voiced a variety of civic concerns such as vendor relocation, sanitation, and infrastructure repair. Many grievances were addressed on-site, with unresolved complaints assigned for timely resolution by municipal departments, emphasizing community engagement and responsive governance.

Parents of Indian medical student who died by suicide seek $30mn from Texas Tech

The family of Vaibhav Duggal, a 24-year-old medical student who died by suicide following disciplinary action at Texas Tech University, is suing the institution for $30 million, alleging a flawed process and inadequate mental health support. Duggal faced severe distress from the investigation, prompting calls for systemic reforms to protect students’ wellbeing and due process.

4 held with 2kg heroin, five pistols in Amritsar

Amritsar police arrested four individuals in connection with a cross-border arms and narcotics smuggling operation, recovering five .30-bore pistols, 2.015 kg of heroin, and ₹5 lakh in cash. The suspects, involved in various criminal cases, were apprehended based on intelligence-led operations. Investigations are ongoing to trace additional associates. The case involves significant breaches of the Arms and NDPS Acts.

Oppn turns up heat on AAP govt over paper leak charges

The Opposition intensified criticism of Punjab's Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and his ministers over alleged recruitment exam irregularities, claiming six paper leaks impacted 500,000 students. Congress MPs protested in Parliament, demanding accountability, while the SAD called for a judicial inquiry. AAP leaders denied the allegations, asserting no paper leaks occurred, attributing the claims to political motives.

Excess July rains trigger sharp rebound in Maharashtra’s Kharif sowing

Above-normal rainfall in July has revitalized Kharif sowing in Maharashtra, with 117.68 lakh hectares sowed, covering 82% of the normal area. This follows a weak June monsoon that delayed sowing to just 11.2 lakh hectares. Agriculture officials express optimism for continued growth if favorable conditions persist, benefiting crops like cotton and soybean amid recent heavy rains.

Anti-paper leak law: Centre’s fast-track push exposes gaps in Haryana law

The Haryana government’s 2021 anti-paper leak law aims to combat examination fraud but faces challenges, with only 12 out of 17 FIRs reaching the chargesheet stage by December 2025. Investigators often rely on IPC provisions rather than the new law. To improve efficiency, officials suggest amending the law for faster trials in response to ongoing recruitment fraud concerns.

SPV proposed to fund Pune mobility projects

Pune's high-powered committee, led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, reviewed critical urban transport projects including the High Capacity Mass Transit Route (HCMTR), Pune Ring Road, and an underground tunnel network, directing officials to expedite their planning and implementation. Key decisions include forming a special purpose vehicle for funding and improving coordination among agencies. These projects aim to enhance Pune's transport infrastructure and reduce congestion.

Amid sewerage work, Kharar-Landran road a nightmare for motorists in Mohali

Nearly a year after concerns were raised, the Kharar-Landran road remains plagued by potholes and waterlogging, causing daily traffic snarls for commuters. Officials cite ongoing underground sewerage work as the delay for restoration, while residents express frustration over safety risks and damaged vehicles. Completion is expected by August 31, but many question the prolonged disruptions.

Husband cannot take advantage of his own wrong in maintenance case: Allahabad HC

The Allahabad High Court ruled that a woman misled into marriage by her husband's concealed existing marriage is entitled to maintenance under Section 125 CrPC, despite the marriage's void status. The husband’s appeal was dismissed, and the wife's maintenance was increased from Rs 6,000, highlighting the court's stance against exploitation in such cases.

Chandigarh: HC Bar body calls for general house on legal-aid policy

The Punjab and Haryana High Court Bar Association (PHHCBA) will hold a general house meeting on Tuesday to address the legal-aid defence counsel policy. This follows a public interest litigation highlighting disruptions in district courts due to ongoing lawyer strikes. The National Legal Service Authority’s new system faces opposition from lawyers concerned about its impact on legal opportunities.

Regular PSPCL staff call off strike, but outsourced, CHB workers refuse to relent

Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) regular employees ended their mass leave, yet outsourced and Complaint Handling Bike workers continue to strike, severely disrupting consumer services since July 22. Complaints remain unresolved, impacting customers like Poonam and Vivek Mehta. Workers demand direct employment and job security, insisting protests will persist until government commitments are fulfilled despite management assurances.

T’gana: Police launch search for IPS trainee officer accused in sexual harassment case

Telangana police initiated a manhunt for trainee IPS officer Mulagani Uday Krishna Reddy after the high court denied him interim protection in a sexual harassment case. He is untraceable at the addresses he provided and his phone is off. Reddy faces multiple charges, including sexual harassment and voyeurism, and was suspended by his academy following the allegations.

Woman, one-year-old son killed; relative seriously injured after container truck hits motorcycle

A speeding container truck fatally struck a motorcycle in Pune, killing 25-year-old Mangal Prahlad Chopalwad and her one-year-old son, while her brother-in-law sustained serious injuries. The incident occurred on July 26 near Hotel Pancharatna. Police suspect the motorcyclist lost control while avoiding a pothole. The truck driver has been arrested and faced charges.

AICTS doctors perform rare dual-valve implant, removing need for repeat open-heart surgery

Doctors at Pune's Army Institute of Cardio-Thoracic Sciences successfully performed a rare catheter-based dual-valve implantation on a patient with severe tricuspid valve leakage, avoiding a second open-heart surgery. This innovative procedure reflects advancements in structural heart interventions in India, offering high-risk patients a safer alternative for treatment, reinforcing AICTS’s reputation as a leading cardiac care center.

Engineering CAP seat acceptance fee hike withdrawn

Pune's Maharashtra CET Cell has rescinded its plan to raise the engineering seat acceptance fee for the 2026–27 academic year, maintaining it at ₹1,000 after backlash from students and parents, alongside state government intervention. The proposed fee hike, intended to reduce seat blocking, faced criticism for increasing financial burdens on candidates. The fee hadn't changed in seven years.

Sakleshpur’s poet-saint and his jolige of song

In July, Karnataka mourned two cultural icons: playback singer S Janaki, who passed away at 88, and folklorist Dr SK Karim Khan, a pivotal figure in documenting Kannada traditions. Janaki's illustrious music career included over 8,000 Kannada songs. Karim's lifelong dedication to folk culture earned him reverence, although later recognition faded until a street was named in his honor.

Punjab: Day-long strike by Aam Aadmi Clinic staff cripples primary care

Thousands of contractual employees at Punjab's Aam Aadmi Clinics (AACs) went on strike Monday, halting services at over 1,000 clinics and affecting lakhs of patients. The protest aimed to secure regular employment and service benefits, impacting outpatient services and essential tests. After discussions with the National Health Mission, employees agreed to temporarily suspend the strike for 15 days.