The Supreme Court on Friday appointed Justice (retd) Madan B Lokur, a former judge of the top court, to act as the one-man monitoring committee to prevent stubble burning in the states of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.

A bench headed by Chief Justice SA Bobde, while hearing a plea highlighting the issue of stubble burning in Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, said that the court is only concerned that the citizens of Delhi-NCR get to breathe clean and fresh air.

The bench said that the new committee, which will monitor the stubble burning and take preventive steps, will get assistance from chief secretaries of all states.

"We have been made aware of steps by Punjab and Haryana for stopping stubble burning including the development of an app which can help in identification and notification of a particular field in which someone has burnt stubble... In spite of measures, reported an increase in stubble burning which will pollute the atmosphere of Delhi-NCR inevitably. We are not inclined to make an assessment of which measure has been effective or not," the bench said.

The bench also asked the heads of National Cadet Corps, National Service Scheme, and Bharat Scouts and Guides to put the young force at Justice Lokur`s disposal to help locate stubble burning in the three states and bring it to the notice of authorities to prevent the same.

"There needs to be some monitoring of stubble burning before it assumes unhealthy proportions. Accordingly, we find that the suggestion of a former Judge of this court is appointed to monitor the situation in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh," the bench said.

"We accordingly accept the suggestion and appoint Justice Madan B Lokur, former Supreme Court Judge to act as the one-man monitoring Committee to prevent stubble burning in the State," it added.

The bench, in its order, said that it considers it appropriate for the Chief Secretaries of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh to enable Justice Lokur in order to devise additional means and methods for preventing burning or stubble.

It further said that the states shall provide adequate facilities to the committee for carrying out its job including secretarial assistance and transportation if necessary and added that the Committee will submit a report fortnightly or as and when required.

During the hearing, senior advocate Vikas Singh appearing for the petitioner, a class 12 student Aditya Dubey, said the prayer in the plea is that a one-man commission of Justice (retd) Madan B Lokur can be appointed because he has dealt with many environmental issues.

The state agencies and Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority are not empowered and don`t have any teeth to take action, he said.

Singh further contended that let a one-man commission of Justice Madan B Lokur be appointed and let him formulate teams to tackle this for continuous monitoring and he can take assistance from NGOs or NCC for the creation of mobile teams that can monitor and identify instances of stubble burning.

The plea, which referred to a Harvard University study that air pollution may now be an important factor that aggravates a mild COVID-19 infection into an acute one, had contended that stubble burning contributes almost 40 per cent of air pollution in Delhi.

It had sought directions to ban stubble burning in the states neighbouring the national capital as it cases massive air pollution in the winters. 
&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Friday appointed Justice (retd) Madan B Lokur, a former judge of the top court, to act as the one-man monitoring committee to prevent stubble burning in the states of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.

The Supreme Court on Friday appointed Justice (retd) Madan B Lokur, a former judge of the top court, to act as the one-man monitoring committee to prevent stubble burning in the states of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. A bench headed by Chief Justice SA Bobde, while hearing a plea highlighting the issue of stubble burning in Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, said that the court is only concerned that the citizens of Delhi-NCR get to breathe clean and fresh air. The bench said that the new committee, which will monitor the stubble burning and take preventive steps, will get assistance from chief secretaries of all states. "We have been made aware of steps by Punjab and Haryana for stopping stubble burning including the development of an app which can help in identification and notification of a particular field in which someone has burnt stubble... In spite of measures, reported an increase in stubble burning which will pollute the atmosphere of Delhi-NCR inevitably. We are not inclined to make an assessment of which measure has been effective or not," the bench said. The bench also asked the heads of National Cadet Corps, National Service Scheme, and Bharat Scouts and Guides to put the young force at Justice Lokur`s disposal to help locate stubble burning in the three states and bring it to the notice of authorities to prevent the same. "There needs to be some monitoring of stubble burning before it assumes unhealthy proportions. Accordingly, we find that the suggestion of a former Judge of this court is appointed to monitor the situation in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh," the bench said. "We accordingly accept the suggestion and appoint Justice Madan B Lokur, former Supreme Court Judge to act as the one-man monitoring Committee to prevent stubble burning in the State," it added. The bench, in its order, said that it considers it appropriate for the Chief Secretaries of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh to enable Justice Lokur in order to devise additional means and methods for preventing burning or stubble. It further said that the states shall provide adequate facilities to the committee for carrying out its job including secretarial assistance and transportation if necessary and added that the Committee will submit a report fortnightly or as and when required. During the hearing, senior advocate Vikas Singh appearing for the petitioner, a class 12 student Aditya Dubey, said the prayer in the plea is that a one-man commission of Justice (retd) Madan B Lokur can be appointed because he has dealt with many environmental issues. The state agencies and Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority are not empowered and don`t have any teeth to take action, he said. Singh further contended that let a one-man commission of Justice Madan B Lokur be appointed and let him formulate teams to tackle this for continuous monitoring and he can take assistance from NGOs or NCC for the creation of mobile teams that can monitor and identify instances of stubble burning. The plea, which referred to a Harvard University study that air pollution may now be an important factor that aggravates a mild COVID-19 infection into an acute one, had contended that stubble burning contributes almost 40 per cent of air pollution in Delhi. It had sought directions to ban stubble burning in the states neighbouring the national capital as it cases massive air pollution in the winters.

Supreme Court appoints retired SC judge to monitor stubble burning in Punjab, Haryana and UP

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday said his government would approach the Supreme Court over the issue of new farm laws.

Talking to reporters here, he also suggested that Pakistan's spy agency ISI will use farmers' unrest over the new farm laws and will try to foment trouble in the border state of Punjab.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-new-farm-bills-whats-good-what-may-not-be-330262">India's new farm bills: What's good, what may not be</a>

Amarinder Singh, along with AICC general secretary and Punjab Affairs in-charge Harish Rawat, Punjab Congress chief Sunil Jakhar and others, paid tributes to Shaheed Bhagat Singh on his 113th birth anniversary at Khatkar Kalan village in SBS Nagar district.

Amarinder Singh, Rawat and others held a sit-in protest here against the new farm laws.

Addressing the gathering, the CM slammed the Centre for bringing the farm laws, saying they would "destroy" the farming community.

"I have said we will take this matter forward. The president has passed these bills and now we will take this matter to the Supreme Court," Singh said.

Stating that his government would take every possible step to protect the interest of the farming community, he said two advocates from Delhi would be coming here on Tuesday and the matter would be discussed with them.

To another question, he said, "The ISI always looks to whom and where it can give guns, bombs and grenades. They have been following it since the beginning. During the last three and half years of our regime, we have arrested around 150 terrorists and seized around 700 weapons."

"There has been peace in Punjab but when you try to take away someone's food, then won't he be angry. He becomes the target for ISI. That is why I am saying whatever they have done is anti-national," Singh added.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Sunday gave assent to three contentious farm bills that have triggered protests by farmers, especially in Punjab.

According to a gazette notification, the president gave assent to three bills -- the Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill, 2020, the Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020, and the Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill, 2020.

Defending farmers for holding protests over the farm laws, the CM said they had the right to do so as "you are taking away their livelihood".

He accused the central government of snatching the rights of states.

"Now you have taken away (right over) the farm sector. Which thing will you leave with states? Will you leave it or not? You have taken away everything (from states). How will we run our states?" he added.

Talking to the media later, the CM expressed hope that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi would join protests against the new farm laws.

"We are going to request him to join us. Daily he is tweeting and making statements, saying whatever they (government) have done with farmers is a fraud. He will certainly join us," he said.

Slamming the Shiromani Akali Dal, which has exited the NDA, the CM said, "Akali Dal is now in a total lose-lose situation. You will find they will lose all over. They will try to use some other tactic that is not going to work because once you have let people down, once you have told them what sort of people you are nobody will trust you again." 
Earlier addressing the gathering, former Uttarakhand chief minister Harish Rawat said the Congress would fight farmers' battle.

He accused the BJP-led central government of "demolishing" the minimum support price, mandi system and PDS (public distribution system) with these farm laws.

"Their motive is to demolish everything which farmers have got after a long struggle. From the green and white revolution to till now, rights which farmers acquired, one by one all of them are being demolished with these farm laws," Singh said.

"MSP and mandi system will be dismantled with these farm laws and their next target is FCI," he said, claiming that they also want to demolish the Public Distribution System.&nbsp;

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday said his government would approach the Supreme Court over the issue of new farm laws. Talking to reporters here, he also suggested that Pakistan's spy agency ISI will use farmers' unrest over the new farm laws and will try to foment trouble in the border state of Punjab.

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday said his government would approach the Supreme Court over the issue of new farm laws. Talking to reporters here, he also suggested that Pakistan's spy agency ISI will use farmers' unrest over the new farm laws and will try to foment trouble in the border state of Punjab. Also read | India's new farm bills: What's good, what may not be Amarinder Singh, along with AICC general secretary and Punjab Affairs in-charge Harish Rawat, Punjab Congress chief Sunil Jakhar and others, paid tributes to Shaheed Bhagat Singh on his 113th birth anniversary at Khatkar Kalan village in SBS Nagar district. Amarinder Singh, Rawat and others held a sit-in protest here against the new farm laws. Addressing the gathering, the CM slammed the Centre for bringing the farm laws, saying they would "destroy" the farming community. "I have said we will take this matter forward. The president has passed these bills and now we will take this matter to the Supreme Court," Singh said. Stating that his government would take every possible step to protect the interest of the farming community, he said two advocates from Delhi would be coming here on Tuesday and the matter would be discussed with them. To another question, he said, "The ISI always looks to whom and where it can give guns, bombs and grenades. They have been following it since the beginning. During the last three and half years of our regime, we have arrested around 150 terrorists and seized around 700 weapons." "There has been peace in Punjab but when you try to take away someone's food, then won't he be angry. He becomes the target for ISI. That is why I am saying whatever they have done is anti-national," Singh added. President Ram Nath Kovind on Sunday gave assent to three contentious farm bills that have triggered protests by farmers, especially in Punjab. According to a gazette notification, the president gave assent to three bills -- the Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill, 2020, the Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020, and the Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill, 2020. Defending farmers for holding protests over the farm laws, the CM said they had the right to do so as "you are taking away their livelihood". He accused the central government of snatching the rights of states. "Now you have taken away (right over) the farm sector. Which thing will you leave with states? Will you leave it or not? You have taken away everything (from states). How will we run our states?" he added. Talking to the media later, the CM expressed hope that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi would join protests against the new farm laws. "We are going to request him to join us. Daily he is tweeting and making statements, saying whatever they (government) have done with farmers is a fraud. He will certainly join us," he said. Slamming the Shiromani Akali Dal, which has exited the NDA, the CM said, "Akali Dal is now in a total lose-lose situation. You will find they will lose all over. They will try to use some other tactic that is not going to work because once you have let people down, once you have told them what sort of people you are nobody will trust you again." Earlier addressing the gathering, former Uttarakhand chief minister Harish Rawat said the Congress would fight farmers' battle. He accused the BJP-led central government of "demolishing" the minimum support price, mandi system and PDS (public distribution system) with these farm laws. "Their motive is to demolish everything which farmers have got after a long struggle. From the green and white revolution to till now, rights which farmers acquired, one by one all of them are being demolished with these farm laws," Singh said. "MSP and mandi system will be dismantled with these farm laws and their next target is FCI," he said, claiming that they also want to demolish the Public Distribution System.

Punjab CM says his govt will move SC over new farm laws, warns against ISI threat 

Senior SAD leader Harsimrat Kaur Badal on Saturday said the BJP-led NDA government at the centre turned a blind eye to Punjab and is not the alliance that was envisioned by former prime minister late Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Harsimrat Kaur Badal, who recently resigned from the Union Cabinet in protest against the farm bills made these remarks after her husband and SAD president Sukhbir Badal announced that the party was pulling out of the BJP-led NDA alliance.

"If pain and protests of three crore Punjabis fail to melt the rigid stance of the Centre, it is no longer the NDA envisioned by Vajpayee ji and Badal sahab," she tweeted.

"An alliance that turns a deaf ear to its oldest ally and a blind eye to the pleas of those who feed the nation is no longer in the interest of Punjab," she said.

The SAD's alliance began with BJP's precursor Jan Sangh in 1967, and thereafter both parties have contested most of the elections together.

Senior SAD leader Harsimrat Kaur Badal on Saturday said the BJP-led NDA government at the centre turned a blind eye to Punjab and is not the alliance that was envisioned by former prime minister late Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Senior SAD leader Harsimrat Kaur Badal on Saturday said the BJP-led NDA government at the centre turned a blind eye to Punjab and is not the alliance that was envisioned by former prime minister late Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Harsimrat Kaur Badal, who recently resigned from the Union Cabinet in protest against the farm bills made these remarks after her husband and SAD president Sukhbir Badal announced that the party was pulling out of the BJP-led NDA alliance. "If pain and protests of three crore Punjabis fail to melt the rigid stance of the Centre, it is no longer the NDA envisioned by Vajpayee ji and Badal sahab," she tweeted. "An alliance that turns a deaf ear to its oldest ally and a blind eye to the pleas of those who feed the nation is no longer in the interest of Punjab," she said. The SAD's alliance began with BJP's precursor Jan Sangh in 1967, and thereafter both parties have contested most of the elections together.

BJP-led NDA turned blind eye to Punjab, it's not the alliance envisioned by Vajpayee: Harsimrat Kaur

The issue of conduct of NEET-JEE exams has found itself in legal tussle. After Supreme Court declined to entertain pleas for postponement of NEET and JEE exams, six ministers of Opposition ruled states have approached the top court for a review. These ministers from states of West Bengal, Punjab, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand have filed a review petition.

The petition, filed through advocate Sunil Fernandes, seeks postponement of exams slated to be held in September in light of coronavirus pandemic.

"Failed to balance the competing but equally important aspects of conducting the examination and securing safety of the student. Fails to ensure that mandatory safeguards are put in place during the conducting of the examinations," said the petition challenging the August 17 order. This has been cited by news agency IANS.

Also Read | <a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/tamil-nadu-health-minister-writes-to-union-minister-seeking-cancellation-of-neet-examination-323277">Tamil Nadu Health Minister writes to Union Minister seeking cancellation of NEET Examination</a>

"The advice of `Life Must Go On` may have sounded very philosophical underpinnings but cannot be a substitute for valid legal reasoning and logical analysis of the various aspects involved in the conduct of the NEET (UG) and JEE exams," the petitioners have argued.&nbsp;

The petitioners say that Central Government had ample time to set up at least one exam centre per district to conduct the examinations.

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"Having at least one centre per district would have minimised the inter-district long travel of the students and thereby reduced the chances of Covid-19 spread," says the petition.

The ministers, who have petitioned the Supreme Court have expressed posibillity of irreparable harm coming to the students as a result of spread of coronavirus. 
&nbsp;

The issue of conduct of NEET-JEE exams has found itself in legal tussle. After Supreme Court declined to entertain pleas for postponement of NEET and JEE exams, six ministers of Opposition ruled states have approached the top court for a review.

The issue of conduct of NEET-JEE exams has found itself in legal tussle. After Supreme Court declined to entertain pleas for postponement of NEET and JEE exams, six ministers of Opposition ruled states have approached the top court for a review. These ministers from states of West Bengal, Punjab, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand have filed a review petition. The petition, filed through advocate Sunil Fernandes, seeks postponement of exams slated to be held in September in light of coronavirus pandemic. "Failed to balance the competing but equally important aspects of conducting the examination and securing safety of the student. Fails to ensure that mandatory safeguards are put in place during the conducting of the examinations," said the petition challenging the August 17 order. This has been cited by news agency IANS. Also Read | Tamil Nadu Health Minister writes to Union Minister seeking cancellation of NEET Examination "The advice of `Life Must Go On` may have sounded very philosophical underpinnings but cannot be a substitute for valid legal reasoning and logical analysis of the various aspects involved in the conduct of the NEET (UG) and JEE exams," the petitioners have argued. The petitioners say that Central Government had ample time to set up at least one exam centre per district to conduct the examinations. × "Having at least one centre per district would have minimised the inter-district long travel of the students and thereby reduced the chances of Covid-19 spread," says the petition. The ministers, who have petitioned the Supreme Court have expressed posibillity of irreparable harm coming to the students as a result of spread of coronavirus.

NEET-JEE exams: 6 ministers of non-BJP ruled states approach SC for review of order

Former Punjab Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Rajinder Kaur Bhattal, whose name figured in the list of 23 leaders, who demanded an "active, full-time and visible" party president, said on Monday that their communication should not be seen as dissent, but good suggestions were given in party's interest.

Another signatory to the letter, former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, however, declined to comment on the party's "internal matters".

Bhattal said that Sonia Gandhi had been made interim president of the Congress last year.

That was less than two years after she voluntarily relinquished the top post in favour of her son Rahul Gandhi who refused to continue as Congress chief (after the 2019 general election defeat), the former Punjab CM said.

After her tenure (as interim chief) came to an end on August 10, Congress had said that Sonia Gandhi will continue in the post till such time a "proper procedure" is implemented in the "not too distant future" to elect a party chief.

"She (Sonia Gandhi) had said that she will continue for one year and her tenure was to come to an end on August 10. Rahul ji had earlier said that he does not want to continue as party chief.

"In light of these things, we had given our suggestions (in the letter). Those who have read the full contents of the letter know that we have praised Sonia Gandhi and her leadership," Bhattal told PTI.

She said that despite the tragedies Sonia Gandhi faced on the personal front -- losing her mother-in-law Indira Gandhi and husband Rajiv Gandhi -- "she moved on and effectively guided the Congress and formed government at the Centre twice".

"Soniaji's leadership is acceptable to all, but we had said that a working group be formed under her which will be directly answerable to her. This was our demand, there is nothing wrong, it was not dissent, it was a suggestion letter, we gave good points to make the party strong," said the senior Congress leader.

On the other hand, when asked about the letter during an informal chat, Hooda replied, "I won't make any comment on the party's internal matters." He, however, said the Congress needs to be strengthened.

The Congress Working Committee on Monday urged Sonia Gandhi to continue as its interim chief till an AICC session can be convened and authorised her to effect necessary organisational changes to deal with the challenges facing the party.

At an over seven-hour long meeting, which took place in the backdrop of more than 20 party leaders seeking an immediate organisational overhaul and a collective leadership, Gandhi is said to have offered to quit but was requested by the party's top decision-making panel with over 50 members to stay on.

Bhattal said, "We had suggested that a working group should be formed under her and an AICC session should be summoned. We always accepted Sonia ji's leadership and never were any question marks raised. We have been well-wishers of the Nehru-Gandhi family, which made sacrifices for the nation's sake."

She said that Sonia Gandhi ran things quite smoothly being at the helm.

"But she had herself said last year that she will be there for one year. It is good that she will continue now," Bhattal said.

Bhattal said assembly elections are due in Punjab in over a year, polls in other states are going to take place in coming months and the suggestions they gave was to strength party for the elections also.

Asked why then there has been criticism to their letter, Bhattal replied: "Sometimes, things get misinterpreted in the media. We all want that Congress should be further strengthened. It is a grand old party which first fought for the country's freedom and then ran the country for all these years. To speak for strengthening the party, I think there is nothing wrong in that."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Former Punjab Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Rajinder Kaur Bhattal, whose name figured in the list of 23 leaders, who demanded an "active, full-time and visible" party president, said on Monday that their communication should not be seen as dissent, but good suggestions were given in party's interest.

Former Punjab Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Rajinder Kaur Bhattal, whose name figured in the list of 23 leaders, who demanded an "active, full-time and visible" party president, said on Monday that their communication should not be seen as dissent, but good suggestions were given in party's interest. Another signatory to the letter, former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, however, declined to comment on the party's "internal matters". Bhattal said that Sonia Gandhi had been made interim president of the Congress last year. That was less than two years after she voluntarily relinquished the top post in favour of her son Rahul Gandhi who refused to continue as Congress chief (after the 2019 general election defeat), the former Punjab CM said. After her tenure (as interim chief) came to an end on August 10, Congress had said that Sonia Gandhi will continue in the post till such time a "proper procedure" is implemented in the "not too distant future" to elect a party chief. "She (Sonia Gandhi) had said that she will continue for one year and her tenure was to come to an end on August 10. Rahul ji had earlier said that he does not want to continue as party chief. "In light of these things, we had given our suggestions (in the letter). Those who have read the full contents of the letter know that we have praised Sonia Gandhi and her leadership," Bhattal told PTI. She said that despite the tragedies Sonia Gandhi faced on the personal front -- losing her mother-in-law Indira Gandhi and husband Rajiv Gandhi -- "she moved on and effectively guided the Congress and formed government at the Centre twice". "Soniaji's leadership is acceptable to all, but we had said that a working group be formed under her which will be directly answerable to her. This was our demand, there is nothing wrong, it was not dissent, it was a suggestion letter, we gave good points to make the party strong," said the senior Congress leader. On the other hand, when asked about the letter during an informal chat, Hooda replied, "I won't make any comment on the party's internal matters." He, however, said the Congress needs to be strengthened. The Congress Working Committee on Monday urged Sonia Gandhi to continue as its interim chief till an AICC session can be convened and authorised her to effect necessary organisational changes to deal with the challenges facing the party. At an over seven-hour long meeting, which took place in the backdrop of more than 20 party leaders seeking an immediate organisational overhaul and a collective leadership, Gandhi is said to have offered to quit but was requested by the party's top decision-making panel with over 50 members to stay on. Bhattal said, "We had suggested that a working group should be formed under her and an AICC session should be summoned. We always accepted Sonia ji's leadership and never were any question marks raised. We have been well-wishers of the Nehru-Gandhi family, which made sacrifices for the nation's sake." She said that Sonia Gandhi ran things quite smoothly being at the helm. "But she had herself said last year that she will be there for one year. It is good that she will continue now," Bhattal said. Bhattal said assembly elections are due in Punjab in over a year, polls in other states are going to take place in coming months and the suggestions they gave was to strength party for the elections also. Asked why then there has been criticism to their letter, Bhattal replied: "Sometimes, things get misinterpreted in the media. We all want that Congress should be further strengthened. It is a grand old party which first fought for the country's freedom and then ran the country for all these years. To speak for strengthening the party, I think there is nothing wrong in that."

Letter not dissent, but good suggestions given in Congress's interests: Former Punjab CM

Police raided rural hamlets and made arrests to break up a bootlegging cartel on Sunday, after over 90&nbsp;people died from consuming illegally-produced alcohol this week in Punjab, officials said.

The death toll has risen to 98.

"We have conducted raids at more than 30 places today and we have detained six more persons," Dhruman H. Nimbale, a senior police officer in Punjab's Tarn Taran district, told Reuters.

Nimbale said the first death occurred on Wednesday but police were only alerted on Friday, and then launched an investigation to determine whether the fatalities were linked.

Punjab police have so far arrested at least 25 people and conducted more than 100 raids across three districts, seizing hundreds of litres of liquor from villages and road-side eateries, the state's police chief Dinkar Gupta said on Saturday.

A government official said some of the seized liquid was denatured spirit, which is typically used in the paint and hardware industry.

Deaths from illegally-produced alcohol, known locally as "hooch" or "country liquor", are a regular occurrence in India.

Recent coronavirus-related lockdowns have also made it difficult for consumers to enjoy a regular tipple. On Friday, 10 men died in a southern Indian state after consuming sanitiser derived from alcohol, as local liquor shops were closed, police said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Police raided rural hamlets and made arrests to break up a bootlegging cartel on Sunday, after over 90 people died from consuming illegally-produced alcohol this week in Punjab, officials said.

Police raided rural hamlets and made arrests to break up a bootlegging cartel on Sunday, after over 90 people died from consuming illegally-produced alcohol this week in Punjab, officials said. The death toll has risen to 98. "We have conducted raids at more than 30 places today and we have detained six more persons," Dhruman H. Nimbale, a senior police officer in Punjab's Tarn Taran district, told Reuters. Nimbale said the first death occurred on Wednesday but police were only alerted on Friday, and then launched an investigation to determine whether the fatalities were linked. Punjab police have so far arrested at least 25 people and conducted more than 100 raids across three districts, seizing hundreds of litres of liquor from villages and road-side eateries, the state's police chief Dinkar Gupta said on Saturday. A government official said some of the seized liquid was denatured spirit, which is typically used in the paint and hardware industry. Deaths from illegally-produced alcohol, known locally as "hooch" or "country liquor", are a regular occurrence in India. Recent coronavirus-related lockdowns have also made it difficult for consumers to enjoy a regular tipple. On Friday, 10 men died in a southern Indian state after consuming sanitiser derived from alcohol, as local liquor shops were closed, police said.

Police crackdown on illegal liquor suppliers after 98 die in Punjab

The death toll in the Punjab spurious liquor tragedy rose to 86 on Saturday even as Chief Minister Amarinder Singh suspended seven excise officials and six policemen, PTI report stated quoting officials.

The government also announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh for each of the families of the deceased, the officials said.

Tarn Taran alone accounted for 63 deaths, followed by 12 in Amritsar and 11 in Gurdaspur's Batala. Till Friday night, the state had reported 39 deaths in the tragedy unfolding since Wednesday night.

According to an official statement, the CM ordered the suspension of seven excise officials, along with six policemen.

Among the suspended officials are two deputy superintendents of police and four station house officers.

Strict action will be taken against any public servant or others found complicit in the case, said the chief minister, describing the police and excise department failure to check the manufacturing and sale of spurious liquor as shameful.

Nobody will be allowed to get away with feeding poison to our people, he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

The death toll in the Punjab spurious liquor tragedy rose to 86 on Saturday even as Chief Minister Amarinder Singh suspended seven excise officials and six policemen, PTI report stated quoting officials.

The death toll in the Punjab spurious liquor tragedy rose to 86 on Saturday even as Chief Minister Amarinder Singh suspended seven excise officials and six policemen, PTI report stated quoting officials. The government also announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh for each of the families of the deceased, the officials said. Tarn Taran alone accounted for 63 deaths, followed by 12 in Amritsar and 11 in Gurdaspur's Batala. Till Friday night, the state had reported 39 deaths in the tragedy unfolding since Wednesday night. According to an official statement, the CM ordered the suspension of seven excise officials, along with six policemen. Among the suspended officials are two deputy superintendents of police and four station house officers. Strict action will be taken against any public servant or others found complicit in the case, said the chief minister, describing the police and excise department failure to check the manufacturing and sale of spurious liquor as shameful. Nobody will be allowed to get away with feeding poison to our people, he added. (With inputs from PTI)

Death toll in Punjab hooch tragedy rises to 86;  6 cops suspended

To check profiteering by private hospitals during the current pandemic, the Punjab government has fixed their COVID treatment rates.

The decision was announced on Thursday after a COVID review Video Conference (VC) meeting chaired by Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh.

The rates, finalised for private hospitals and medical colleges by Dr KK Talwar Committee, cover isolation beds, ICU treatment and hospitalisation charges, per day of admission.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/punjab-set-to-cap-covid-19-charges-in-private-hospitals-307355">Also read:&nbsp;Punjab set to cap COVID-19 charges in private hospitals</a>

For moderate sickness requiring isolation beds, including supportive care and oxygen, the rates per day of admission are fixed at Rs 10,000 for all private medical colleges/NABH private hospitals with teaching program from NBE, Rs 9,000 for NABH accredited hospitals (including private medical colleges without PG/DNB course) and Rs 8,000 for non-NABH accredited hospitals.

The rates across these categories of hospitals for severe sickness (ICU without need for ventilator) have been capped, respectively, at Rs 15,000, Rs 14,000 and Rs 13,000, while for very severe or critical patients, these are fixed at Rs 18,000, Rs 16,500 and Rs 15,000 respectively.

All these rates are inclusive of PPE costs, according to an official spokesperson.In order to encourage private hospitals to cater to mild sickness cases also, the Dr Talwar Committee has also fixed per day admission rates for such cases at Rs 6,500, Rs 5,500 and Rs 4,500, respectively.

The move comes amid several complaints received by the state government of private hospitals charging exorbitantly for COVID treatment.

The Chief Minister had asked the Dr Talwar committee and the state health and family welfare department to look into the matter and work out the rates after discussions with private hospitals. 
&nbsp;

To check profiteering by private hospitals during the current pandemic, the Punjab government has fixed their COVID treatment rates. The decision was announced on Thursday after a COVID review Video Conference (VC) meeting chaired by Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh.

To check profiteering by private hospitals during the current pandemic, the Punjab government has fixed their COVID treatment rates. The decision was announced on Thursday after a COVID review Video Conference (VC) meeting chaired by Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh. The rates, finalised for private hospitals and medical colleges by Dr KK Talwar Committee, cover isolation beds, ICU treatment and hospitalisation charges, per day of admission. Also read: Punjab set to cap COVID-19 charges in private hospitals For moderate sickness requiring isolation beds, including supportive care and oxygen, the rates per day of admission are fixed at Rs 10,000 for all private medical colleges/NABH private hospitals with teaching program from NBE, Rs 9,000 for NABH accredited hospitals (including private medical colleges without PG/DNB course) and Rs 8,000 for non-NABH accredited hospitals. The rates across these categories of hospitals for severe sickness (ICU without need for ventilator) have been capped, respectively, at Rs 15,000, Rs 14,000 and Rs 13,000, while for very severe or critical patients, these are fixed at Rs 18,000, Rs 16,500 and Rs 15,000 respectively. All these rates are inclusive of PPE costs, according to an official spokesperson.In order to encourage private hospitals to cater to mild sickness cases also, the Dr Talwar Committee has also fixed per day admission rates for such cases at Rs 6,500, Rs 5,500 and Rs 4,500, respectively. The move comes amid several complaints received by the state government of private hospitals charging exorbitantly for COVID treatment. The Chief Minister had asked the Dr Talwar committee and the state health and family welfare department to look into the matter and work out the rates after discussions with private hospitals.

Punjab caps COVID treatment rates for private hospitals

Looks like Shah Rukh Khan has finally given a nod to a film after his last movie ‘Zero’ tanked at the box office.&nbsp;

According to latest rumours, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/shahrukh-khan">Shah Rukh Khan</a> will be next seen in a Rajkumar Hirani film. The film reportedly revolves around immigration issues. It will be extensively shot in Punjab and Canada. The film was to start production earlier but because of the coronavirus scare, everything has been shut including cinema halls and other sources of entertainment in the world.&nbsp;

The film will be a social comedy as Shah Rukh will play a man from Punjab who faces immigration issues. &nbsp;

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&nbsp; 
Speaking to a publication, a source close to the film revealed, “Like all Raju films, it revolves around a serious, globally relevant issue and is treated with gentle humour. The story moves between Punjab and Canada. This guy is jovial, he’ll make you laugh and &nbsp;will get you emotional. Shah Rukh is growing his hair for the part.”&nbsp;

The source also spoke about the shooting schedule saying, “The film requires a long outdoor shoot abroad and they will wait till travel restrictions are eased. If things get back to normal soon, it should kick off before the year ends.”

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/celebrities-feel-the-pinch-of-summer-heat-as-now-arshad-warsi-tweets-receiving-electricity-bill-of-rs-1-lakh-kidneys-im-keeping-for-next-bill-311216" hreflang="en">Arshad Warsi tweets about Rs 1 lakh electricity bill: Keeping kidney for next</a>

Looks like Shah Rukh Khan has finally given a nod to a film after his last movie ‘Zero’ tanked at the box office. According to latest rumours, Shah Rukh Khan will be next seen in a Rajkumar Hirani film.

Looks like Shah Rukh Khan has finally given a nod to a film after his last movie ‘Zero’ tanked at the box office. According to latest rumours, Shah Rukh Khan will be next seen in a Rajkumar Hirani film. The film reportedly revolves around immigration issues. It will be extensively shot in Punjab and Canada. The film was to start production earlier but because of the coronavirus scare, everything has been shut including cinema halls and other sources of entertainment in the world. The film will be a social comedy as Shah Rukh will play a man from Punjab who faces immigration issues. Dwayne Johnson to Kylie Jenner: Top 10 highest paid Instagram celebrities Speaking to a publication, a source close to the film revealed, “Like all Raju films, it revolves around a serious, globally relevant issue and is treated with gentle humour. The story moves between Punjab and Canada. This guy is jovial, he’ll make you laugh and will get you emotional. Shah Rukh is growing his hair for the part.” The source also spoke about the shooting schedule saying, “The film requires a long outdoor shoot abroad and they will wait till travel restrictions are eased. If things get back to normal soon, it should kick off before the year ends.” Shah Rukh Khan explains why he said no to 'Slumdog Millionaire' Arshad Warsi tweets about Rs 1 lakh electricity bill: Keeping kidney for next

Shah Rukh Khan's next to be social comedy with Rajkumar Hirani?

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Saturday said that the state government will cap the COVID-19 hospitalisation and treatment rates of private hospitals and those not adhering to the same will be shut down.

Singh termed such actions as `anti-people` and `anti-national` and warned that the private institutions would not be allowed to indulge in such shameless profiteering at the cost of the lives of people, according to an official release.

"If these hospitals do not agree to the government rates, we will close them down," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-tamil-nadu-reports-2396-fresh-cases-total-cases-in-india-near-4-lakh-307340">Also read|&nbsp;COVID 19: Tamil Nadu reports 2,396 fresh cases; total cases in India near 4 lakh</a>

With regard to the spike in COVID-19 cases in Punjab, Singh urged the Centre to make COVID-19 test certificates mandatory for people crossing the border.

Expressing concern over the spike in COVID-19 cases in the state, which he attributed to the large number of people coming from other places, the Chief Minister said that he had sought from the Centre permission to allow the state to make COVID-19 test certificates mandatory for all those crossing the border.

In fact, those leaving Punjab should also carry similar certificates to check the spread of the coronavirus into other states, he added."With 87,000 cars having entered Punjab from Delhi alone in recent days and the spike in cases in the past only due to outsiders, the threat of the pandemic spiraling further was acute," said the Punjab Chief Minister.

Speaking on the state`s medical preparedness, Singh said that 551 ventilators were already available with government and private hospitals and another 93 had been ordered.

"The state government had also ordered 4 lakh more N95 masks to supplement the existing stock of 9.25 lakh. In addition, the state had 79 lakh triple-layered masks, 2.39 lakh PPE kits and 2200 oxygen cylinders," he said.

As far as beds were concerned, more than 6,000 beds had been arranged in government hospitals and another 900 in private hospitals and currently, 2,500 were filled up.

"In the second state, the state plans to add 10,000 more beds, to be followed by another 30,000 in the third stage," Singh said.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Saturday said that the state government will cap the COVID-19 hospitalisation and treatment rates of private hospitals and those not adhering to the same will be shut down.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Saturday said that the state government will cap the COVID-19 hospitalisation and treatment rates of private hospitals and those not adhering to the same will be shut down. Singh termed such actions as `anti-people` and `anti-national` and warned that the private institutions would not be allowed to indulge in such shameless profiteering at the cost of the lives of people, according to an official release. "If these hospitals do not agree to the government rates, we will close them down," he said. Also read| COVID 19: Tamil Nadu reports 2,396 fresh cases; total cases in India near 4 lakh With regard to the spike in COVID-19 cases in Punjab, Singh urged the Centre to make COVID-19 test certificates mandatory for people crossing the border. Expressing concern over the spike in COVID-19 cases in the state, which he attributed to the large number of people coming from other places, the Chief Minister said that he had sought from the Centre permission to allow the state to make COVID-19 test certificates mandatory for all those crossing the border. In fact, those leaving Punjab should also carry similar certificates to check the spread of the coronavirus into other states, he added."With 87,000 cars having entered Punjab from Delhi alone in recent days and the spike in cases in the past only due to outsiders, the threat of the pandemic spiraling further was acute," said the Punjab Chief Minister. Speaking on the state`s medical preparedness, Singh said that 551 ventilators were already available with government and private hospitals and another 93 had been ordered. "The state government had also ordered 4 lakh more N95 masks to supplement the existing stock of 9.25 lakh. In addition, the state had 79 lakh triple-layered masks, 2.39 lakh PPE kits and 2200 oxygen cylinders," he said. As far as beds were concerned, more than 6,000 beds had been arranged in government hospitals and another 900 in private hospitals and currently, 2,500 were filled up. "In the second state, the state plans to add 10,000 more beds, to be followed by another 30,000 in the third stage," Singh said.

Punjab set to cap COVID-19 charges in private hospitals

The Punjab government has announced an ex-gratia compensation of Rs. 50 lakh to the kin of the deceased coronavirus victims.

The compensation will be provided only to the&nbsp;legal heirs of state employees who lost their lives to the coronavirus while performing official duty.

It will will&nbsp;remain in force from April 1, 2020, to July 31, 2020, subject to review thereafter.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-air-force-jet-crashes-in-punjab-pilot-ejects-safely-297374">Also read:&nbsp;Indian Air Force jet crashes in Punjab; pilot ejects safely</a>

The compensation was announced through a statement released by the Punjab government on Sunday.

&nbsp;"The ex-gratia shall be admissible only where the employee is involved directly in the state`s fight to control the spread of coronavirus -- the employees on duty at COVID hospitals/critical care centres, drivers transporting citizens of the state from other states/COVID patients/suspects etc, ration distribution, curfew/lockdown implementation," the release read.

The ex-gratia will be admissible to all employees covered under the old pension scheme and those recruited on and after January 1, 2004, and covered under the New Pension Scheme (NPS). The spokesperson said the cases of providing monetary relief to the dependants of manpower working on contract or through outsourcing, will be considered under the provisions of the Chief Minister's Relief Fund.

Punjab has recorded 1,762 COVID-19 cases, including 31 deaths. The state is now hoping to be able to ease some lockdown restrictions.

(With inputs from ANI)

The Punjab government has announced an ex-gratia compensation of Rs. 50 lakh to the kin of the deceased coronavirus victims. The compensation will be provided only to the legal heirs of state employees who lost their lives to the coronavirus while performing official duty.

The Punjab government has announced an ex-gratia compensation of Rs. 50 lakh to the kin of the deceased coronavirus victims. The compensation will be provided only to the legal heirs of state employees who lost their lives to the coronavirus while performing official duty. It will will remain in force from April 1, 2020, to July 31, 2020, subject to review thereafter. Also read: Indian Air Force jet crashes in Punjab; pilot ejects safely The compensation was announced through a statement released by the Punjab government on Sunday. "The ex-gratia shall be admissible only where the employee is involved directly in the state`s fight to control the spread of coronavirus -- the employees on duty at COVID hospitals/critical care centres, drivers transporting citizens of the state from other states/COVID patients/suspects etc, ration distribution, curfew/lockdown implementation," the release read. The ex-gratia will be admissible to all employees covered under the old pension scheme and those recruited on and after January 1, 2004, and covered under the New Pension Scheme (NPS). The spokesperson said the cases of providing monetary relief to the dependants of manpower working on contract or through outsourcing, will be considered under the provisions of the Chief Minister's Relief Fund. Punjab has recorded 1,762 COVID-19 cases, including 31 deaths. The state is now hoping to be able to ease some lockdown restrictions. (With inputs from ANI)

Punjab announces ex-gratia compensation of 50 lakh to kin of coronavirus victims

As the lockdown 3.0 started, several restrictions were eased. However, schools and colleges are still operating through online classes. Now, people are hoping for the lockdown to end after it was extended for the second time.&nbsp;

However, several states have decided to keep the schools shut to keep the students safe from getting infected by the virus, and to contain the spread of coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-biggest-repatriation-operation-begins-air-india-flight-to-land-in-kochi-tonight-297236">Also read:&nbsp;India's biggest repatriation operation begins; first flight to land in Kochi</a>

Assam's State Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma ordered all state-run schools and colleges to commence summer vacations for the whole month of May.

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Assam govt has decided to declare summer vacation for schools and colleges from May 1 to May 31: State Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma <a href="https://t.co/rvw6YtXw8P">pic.twitter.com/rvw6YtXw8P</a>
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Punjab, too, on Thursday has declared summer vacations for a month, starting from May 15.

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The Punjab Government has decided to declare summer vacation in Government Colleges and Universities of the state from May 15 to June 15.
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Delhi's Education Ministry, too, declared summer vacations from May 11 to June 30 for all schools and colleges. The statement, issued by the education department on Wednesday, directed the schools and colleges to not call the students to the campuses for any kind of work.

Schools and colleges all over the nation have been shut since mid-March. Majority of the institutes have started conducting online classes.

The HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank has announced that no exams for&nbsp;class 10 will be conducted nationwide, except for students of&nbsp;Northeast Delhi. The datesheet for class 12's remaining exams is also expected to be announced soon.

However, Goa, being a green zone, has decided to resume the state-board examinations. Class 10's exams will resume from May 20, and class 12's will resume from May 21 under the supervision of&nbsp;Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education.

The state government has granted permission for resuming the examinations, on the condition that all precautions for social distancing are followed.

Students seeking Prime Minister's Research Fellowship can also take a sigh of relief as the required GATE score has been decreased, as announced on Thursday.

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The required GATE score has been reduced to 650 from 750 apart from minimum CGPA of 8 or equivalent, for the students from any recognized institute/university (other than IISc/ IITs/NITs/IISERs/IIEST/CF IIITs): Union Human Resource Development Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal <a href="https://t.co/c4zfx00fpP">https://t.co/c4zfx00fpP</a>
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Union Human Resource Development Minister, Ramesh Pokhriyal, has also announced on Thursday that the JEE Advanced examination will be conducted on August 23.

As the lockdown 3.0 started, several restrictions were eased. However, schools and colleges are still operating through online classes. Now, people are hoping for the lockdown to end after it was extended for the second time.

As the lockdown 3.0 started, several restrictions were eased. However, schools and colleges are still operating through online classes. Now, people are hoping for the lockdown to end after it was extended for the second time. However, several states have decided to keep the schools shut to keep the students safe from getting infected by the virus, and to contain the spread of coronavirus. Also read: India's biggest repatriation operation begins; first flight to land in Kochi Assam's State Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma ordered all state-run schools and colleges to commence summer vacations for the whole month of May. Assam govt has decided to declare summer vacation for schools and colleges from May 1 to May 31: State Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma pic.twitter.com/rvw6YtXw8P — ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2020 × Punjab, too, on Thursday has declared summer vacations for a month, starting from May 15. The Punjab Government has decided to declare summer vacation in Government Colleges and Universities of the state from May 15 to June 15. — Government of Punjab (@PunjabGovtIndia) May 7, 2020 × Delhi's Education Ministry, too, declared summer vacations from May 11 to June 30 for all schools and colleges. The statement, issued by the education department on Wednesday, directed the schools and colleges to not call the students to the campuses for any kind of work. Schools and colleges all over the nation have been shut since mid-March. Majority of the institutes have started conducting online classes. The HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank has announced that no exams for class 10 will be conducted nationwide, except for students of Northeast Delhi. The datesheet for class 12's remaining exams is also expected to be announced soon. However, Goa, being a green zone, has decided to resume the state-board examinations. Class 10's exams will resume from May 20, and class 12's will resume from May 21 under the supervision of Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education. The state government has granted permission for resuming the examinations, on the condition that all precautions for social distancing are followed. Students seeking Prime Minister's Research Fellowship can also take a sigh of relief as the required GATE score has been decreased, as announced on Thursday. The required GATE score has been reduced to 650 from 750 apart from minimum CGPA of 8 or equivalent, for the students from any recognized institute/university (other than IISc/ IITs/NITs/IISERs/IIEST/CF IIITs): Union Human Resource Development Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal https://t.co/c4zfx00fpP — ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2020 × Union Human Resource Development Minister, Ramesh Pokhriyal, has also announced on Thursday that the JEE Advanced examination will be conducted on August 23.

JEE Advanced date announced; schools declare summer vacations

Punjab Education Minister Vijay Inder Singla`s campaign -- Ambassadors of Hope -- which was launched for the students to share their creativity during lockdown -- has created a world record as close to 1,05,898 school going children have shared their videos.

"The campaign created a world record as never in the past so many students participated in an online video competition concluded in eight days. Currently, Cebu City Commission, a government body of the Philippines, holds the record of the highest participation as they had got 43,157 participants in eight day-long online competition," said Singla on Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-covid-19-count-rises-to-49391-death-toll-mounts-to-1694-296995">Also read:&nbsp;India's COVID-19 count rises to 49,391, death toll mounts to 1,694</a>

Students from Ludhiana district have sent the most entries -- 16,084 -- followed by Amritsar 13,862, Sangrur 10,741, and Patiala 10,614. Apart from entries, the campaign also engaged around 2.5 crore people on social media platforms in eight days.

"The primary objective of engaging the students in constructive activity in the atmosphere of abject negativity has been achieved," an official statement quoted Singla as saying "It is heartening to see the response we have got from the children.

For me, every child is a winner as they have kept the Punjabi Virsa alive. Most of the entries are deeply-rooted in Punjabi ethos and culture. I am grateful to all the students, who shared innovative ideas through videos on just one call," added Singla.

The Minister said that they appreciate the spirit of students and efforts put in by their parents, teachers and school principals in guiding and motivating them.

"I and my team will go through every video and prepare a detailed report to announce the results in the next 20 days," he said.

Punjab Education Minister Vijay Inder Singla`s campaign -- Ambassadors of Hope -- which was launched for the students to share their creativity during lockdown -- has created a world record as close to 1,05,898 school going children have shared their videos.

Punjab Education Minister Vijay Inder Singla`s campaign -- Ambassadors of Hope -- which was launched for the students to share their creativity during lockdown -- has created a world record as close to 1,05,898 school going children have shared their videos. "The campaign created a world record as never in the past so many students participated in an online video competition concluded in eight days. Currently, Cebu City Commission, a government body of the Philippines, holds the record of the highest participation as they had got 43,157 participants in eight day-long online competition," said Singla on Wednesday. Also read: India's COVID-19 count rises to 49,391, death toll mounts to 1,694 Students from Ludhiana district have sent the most entries -- 16,084 -- followed by Amritsar 13,862, Sangrur 10,741, and Patiala 10,614. Apart from entries, the campaign also engaged around 2.5 crore people on social media platforms in eight days. "The primary objective of engaging the students in constructive activity in the atmosphere of abject negativity has been achieved," an official statement quoted Singla as saying "It is heartening to see the response we have got from the children. For me, every child is a winner as they have kept the Punjabi Virsa alive. Most of the entries are deeply-rooted in Punjabi ethos and culture. I am grateful to all the students, who shared innovative ideas through videos on just one call," added Singla. The Minister said that they appreciate the spirit of students and efforts put in by their parents, teachers and school principals in guiding and motivating them. "I and my team will go through every video and prepare a detailed report to announce the results in the next 20 days," he said.

'Ambassadors of Hope' creates world record as more than 1 lakh students participate

The Shopping Centers Association of India (SCAI) has requested governments twin states, Punjab and&nbsp;Haryana to ease down the restrictions of opening shops in the two states.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-cases-in-india-at-over-49000-126-new-deaths-recorded-297022">Also read:&nbsp;COVID-19 cases in India at over 49,000; 126 new deaths recorded</a>

The SCAI has picked up from the recent long queues spotted for alcohol shops and has thus told the governments that they can assure better and more hygienic environment for the shoppers. They have also assured that social distancing norms will be implemented and followed, in addition to making masks compulsory,&nbsp;if the malls get the permission to open.

They have emphasised on the importance of better&nbsp;standard operating procedures (SOPs).

The SCAI has requested&nbsp;intervention of the governments to protect the industry that feeds 12 million people. The group has said in a statement that the organised markets will be able to provide equally safe, if not more, environment to the customers.

The retail industry contributes over 10 per cent to India's GDP, the second largest after agriculture,&nbsp;the SCAI release said, adding it employs over 8 per cent of the overall workforce making it the third largest in the country.

The organised markets have been badly hit financially due to the lockdown. While some standalone shops have been allowed to operate in lockdown 3.0, organised markets still face the blunt of economy crisis.

(With inputs from PTI)

The Shopping Centers Association of India (SCAI) has requested governments twin states, Punjab and Haryana to ease down the restrictions of opening shops in the two states.

The Shopping Centers Association of India (SCAI) has requested governments twin states, Punjab and Haryana to ease down the restrictions of opening shops in the two states. Also read: COVID-19 cases in India at over 49,000; 126 new deaths recorded The SCAI has picked up from the recent long queues spotted for alcohol shops and has thus told the governments that they can assure better and more hygienic environment for the shoppers. They have also assured that social distancing norms will be implemented and followed, in addition to making masks compulsory, if the malls get the permission to open. They have emphasised on the importance of better standard operating procedures (SOPs). The SCAI has requested intervention of the governments to protect the industry that feeds 12 million people. The group has said in a statement that the organised markets will be able to provide equally safe, if not more, environment to the customers. The retail industry contributes over 10 per cent to India's GDP, the second largest after agriculture, the SCAI release said, adding it employs over 8 per cent of the overall workforce making it the third largest in the country. The organised markets have been badly hit financially due to the lockdown. While some standalone shops have been allowed to operate in lockdown 3.0, organised markets still face the blunt of economy crisis. (With inputs from PTI)

SCAI requested Haryana and Punjab governments for better SOPs

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has requested the Prime Minister to start special trains for the stranded migrant labours.

The request came after guidelines were issued in which the government stated that it will allow the stranded migrant labourers and students to go back to their hometown. the inter-state movement will be allowed only by buses which will ave to properly sanitised before use, and everyone will have to follow the protocols of social distancing.

"Estimates indicate that nearly one million workers will need transport to go back to their states. The only feasible option in the circumstances was to arrange special trains, which the Railways may run from point to point, keeping in view the number of persons to be transported to a given destination," Punjab CM wrote in a&nbsp;letter to Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

Talking specifically about the migrant labourers from Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and other states who are stranded in Punjab, he wrote, "These workers are engaged both in agriculture and industries. However most of them either lost their jobs or could not find employment/work due to curfew imposed in the state to contain coronavirus."

Singh conducted a video call with his state officials and informed everyone that he has requested the Prime Minister to ask the Railway Ministry to start special trains for such labourers and students.

He has asked the District Collectors (DCs) to prepare state-wise data of migrant labourers to coordinate their movement, and has&nbsp;assigned one officer for each state to coordinate the return of stranded migrants.

During the video call, he pointed out that Ludhiana alone had over seven lakh migrant labourers, with the whole of Punjab having over a million of them. He also added that 70 per cent labourers belong to bihar.

As the number of stranded labourers is huge, Singh feels transportation through trains will be easier and faster, when compared to buses.

Also, to make sure nobody in the state stays hungry, he has also ordered the Food Department to increase the quota of rations to be distributed to migrants and non-smart cardholders.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has requested the Prime Minister to start special trains for the stranded migrant labours. The request came after guidelines were issued in which the government stated that it will allow the stranded migrant labourers and students to go back to their hometown.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has requested the Prime Minister to start special trains for the stranded migrant labours. The request came after guidelines were issued in which the government stated that it will allow the stranded migrant labourers and students to go back to their hometown. the inter-state movement will be allowed only by buses which will ave to properly sanitised before use, and everyone will have to follow the protocols of social distancing. "Estimates indicate that nearly one million workers will need transport to go back to their states. The only feasible option in the circumstances was to arrange special trains, which the Railways may run from point to point, keeping in view the number of persons to be transported to a given destination," Punjab CM wrote in a letter to Narendra Modi. Talking specifically about the migrant labourers from Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and other states who are stranded in Punjab, he wrote, "These workers are engaged both in agriculture and industries. However most of them either lost their jobs or could not find employment/work due to curfew imposed in the state to contain coronavirus." Singh conducted a video call with his state officials and informed everyone that he has requested the Prime Minister to ask the Railway Ministry to start special trains for such labourers and students. He has asked the District Collectors (DCs) to prepare state-wise data of migrant labourers to coordinate their movement, and has assigned one officer for each state to coordinate the return of stranded migrants. During the video call, he pointed out that Ludhiana alone had over seven lakh migrant labourers, with the whole of Punjab having over a million of them. He also added that 70 per cent labourers belong to bihar. As the number of stranded labourers is huge, Singh feels transportation through trains will be easier and faster, when compared to buses. Also, to make sure nobody in the state stays hungry, he has also ordered the Food Department to increase the quota of rations to be distributed to migrants and non-smart cardholders.

Nearly one million workers will need transport to go back to their states: Punjab Chief Minister writes to Narendra Modi

A group of Nihang Sikhs got into a scuffle with policemen at Patiala vegetable market, they attacked and chopped off a hand of an assiatant sub-inspector and injured other cop, a station house officer. The incident took place at around 6:15 am on Sunday (April 12) morning outside a wholesale vegetable market in Sanaur town in Punjab.

India: Police officer's hand chopped off in Punjab

Almost 25,000 people in 16 villages of the northern Indian state of Punjab were placed under quarantine due to one coronavirus-infected man as per reports.&nbsp;

The measure was taken following the villagers' contact with a person who died of coronavirus.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-participate-in-who-solidarity-trial-for-developing-potential-covid-19-drugs-288976">India to participate in WHO 'solidarity trial' for developing potential COVID-19 drugs</a>

However, the fact that the 70-year-old was infected with COVID-19 only revealed after his death.&nbsp;

In pics |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/life-under-coronavirus-24-hours-around-the-world-in-pictures-288917">Life under coronavirus: 24 hours around the world in pictures</a>

The deceased, a preacher, had ignored advice to self-quarantine after returning from Italy and Germany, officials told a BBC Punjabi reporter.&nbsp;

As per official figures, 724 coronavirus cases are detected in India and nearly 30 in Punjab.&nbsp;

The report added that the man, identified as Baldev Singh from Nawanshahr in Punjab, was a part of a large gathering to celebrate the Sikh festival of Hola Mohalla shortly before he died.

Around 10,000 people every day participate in the six-day festival.

The villages neighbouring Nawanshahr were sealed and include Pathwala, Laghana, Jhikka, Sujjo, Maal Gahilla, Laghana Ucha, Paddi Mathh Wali, Bahnla, Hiu, Gobindpur, Gujjarpur Khurd, Naura, Bhaunra, Palli Uchi, Palli Jhikki, and Surapur.

So far, India is under a 21-day lockdown to prevent the spread of coronavirus. At least 17 people have died of the deadly virus in the country and experts fear that the country's fragile health infrastructure could come under severe pressure in case of mass infections. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Almost 25,000 people in 16 villages of the northern Indian state of Punjab were placed under quarantine due to one coronavirus-infected man as per reports. The measure was taken following the villagers' contact with a person who died of coronavirus.

Almost 25,000 people in 16 villages of the northern Indian state of Punjab were placed under quarantine due to one coronavirus-infected man as per reports. The measure was taken following the villagers' contact with a person who died of coronavirus. Also read | India to participate in WHO 'solidarity trial' for developing potential COVID-19 drugs However, the fact that the 70-year-old was infected with COVID-19 only revealed after his death. In pics | Life under coronavirus: 24 hours around the world in pictures The deceased, a preacher, had ignored advice to self-quarantine after returning from Italy and Germany, officials told a BBC Punjabi reporter. As per official figures, 724 coronavirus cases are detected in India and nearly 30 in Punjab. The report added that the man, identified as Baldev Singh from Nawanshahr in Punjab, was a part of a large gathering to celebrate the Sikh festival of Hola Mohalla shortly before he died. Around 10,000 people every day participate in the six-day festival. The villages neighbouring Nawanshahr were sealed and include Pathwala, Laghana, Jhikka, Sujjo, Maal Gahilla, Laghana Ucha, Paddi Mathh Wali, Bahnla, Hiu, Gobindpur, Gujjarpur Khurd, Naura, Bhaunra, Palli Uchi, Palli Jhikki, and Surapur. So far, India is under a 21-day lockdown to prevent the spread of coronavirus. At least 17 people have died of the deadly virus in the country and experts fear that the country's fragile health infrastructure could come under severe pressure in case of mass infections.

More than 25,000 quarantined in Punjab due to one coronavirus 'super spreader'

Pakistan reports one death due to Covid 19 in Lahore. Punjab health minister Dr, Yasmin Rashid said that the number of coronavirus cases in the province has risen.

One death in Pakistan due to Coronvirus

Punjab government on Saturday informed that as many as 335 passengers with travel history to the COVID-19 affected countries are untraceable.

"As many as 335 passengers with travel history to the coronavirus affected countries are untraceable," said Health and Family Welfare Department of Punjab on Saturday.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-test-positive-for-covid-19-in-punjab-and-karnataka-total-cases-in-india-rise-to-45-285318"> Two test positive for COVID-19 in Punjab and Karnataka, total cases in India rise to 45&nbsp;</a>

"A total of 6,011 passengers have been traced till March 13," read the press note.

<img alt="Press Note" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="830acd6b-fe29-4787-b7a1-b3da2b34f996" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%2816%29_0.jpg" />

According to media bulletin on COVID-19 released by the Punjab government, around 90 people have been screened for the virus out of which one has been tested positive and 85 have been tested negative.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-pandemic-india-reports-first-death-as-cases-reach-73-285995">Covid-19 pandemic: India reports first death as cases reach 73</a>

The result of the remaining four people is still awaited.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic.

Coronavirus, which originated in the Wuhan city of China, has so far spread to more than 100 countries infecting over 1,20,000 people.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-crashes-over-2700-points-nifty-falls-below-9700-285812">Sensex crashes over 2,700 points; Nifty falls below 9,700</a>

India has reported two deaths and 82 confirmed cases of the deadly coronavirus.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) had declared the coronavirus outbreak a `pandemic` and had expressed deep concern.

Punjab government on Saturday informed that as many as 335 passengers with travel history to the COVID-19 affected countries are untraceable. "As many as 335 passengers with travel history to the coronavirus affected countries are untraceable," said Health and Family Welfare Department of Punjab on Saturday.

Punjab government on Saturday informed that as many as 335 passengers with travel history to the COVID-19 affected countries are untraceable. "As many as 335 passengers with travel history to the coronavirus affected countries are untraceable," said Health and Family Welfare Department of Punjab on Saturday. Also read: Two test positive for COVID-19 in Punjab and Karnataka, total cases in India rise to 45 "A total of 6,011 passengers have been traced till March 13," read the press note. According to media bulletin on COVID-19 released by the Punjab government, around 90 people have been screened for the virus out of which one has been tested positive and 85 have been tested negative. Also read: Covid-19 pandemic: India reports first death as cases reach 73 The result of the remaining four people is still awaited. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. Coronavirus, which originated in the Wuhan city of China, has so far spread to more than 100 countries infecting over 1,20,000 people. Also see: Sensex crashes over 2,700 points; Nifty falls below 9,700 India has reported two deaths and 82 confirmed cases of the deadly coronavirus. The World Health Organisation (WHO) had declared the coronavirus outbreak a `pandemic` and had expressed deep concern.

335 passengers with travel history to COVID-19 affected countries untraceable: Punjab

Two persons tested positive for COVID-19 in Punjab and Karnataka on Monday, taking the total number of coronavirus cases in India to 45.

The Punjab man had recently travelled to Italy - a nation battling with the outbreak of coronavirus. Over 366 people have died and at least 7,000 have been affected by the virus in Italy.

"The man who returned to Amritsar by an Air India flight from Milan in Italy has tested positive for coronavirus. He had landed at Amritsar International Airport via Delhi on March 4 along with his two other family members," Punjab Principal Secretary (Health) Anurag Aggarwal said.

The patient is a resident of Hoshiarpur, he said, adding he was tracked at the Amritsar airport and got admitted to a government hospital in Amritsar.

Meanwhile, a techie who returned to Bengaluru from the US via Dubai on March 1, tested positive for Covid-19 today.

"He came to Bengaluru via Dubai at 8.30am on March 1. On March 2,3 &amp; 4 he has not displayed symptoms and went to his office and was with his family. On March 5 he started displaying symptoms and went to a private hospital OPD," said Dr K Sudhakar, Medical Education Minister, Karnataka.

Apart from the techie, his wife, 13-yr-old child and driver have also been placed under observation, he added. &nbsp;

At least, 982 patients are currently under observation in Karnataka out of which 266 patients have completed 28 days of observation.&nbsp;

Two persons tested positive for COVID-19 in Punjab and Karnataka on Monday, taking the total number of coronavirus cases in India to 45. The Punjab man had recently travelled to Italy - a nation battling with the outbreak of coronavirus.

Two persons tested positive for COVID-19 in Punjab and Karnataka on Monday, taking the total number of coronavirus cases in India to 45. The Punjab man had recently travelled to Italy - a nation battling with the outbreak of coronavirus. Over 366 people have died and at least 7,000 have been affected by the virus in Italy. "The man who returned to Amritsar by an Air India flight from Milan in Italy has tested positive for coronavirus. He had landed at Amritsar International Airport via Delhi on March 4 along with his two other family members," Punjab Principal Secretary (Health) Anurag Aggarwal said. The patient is a resident of Hoshiarpur, he said, adding he was tracked at the Amritsar airport and got admitted to a government hospital in Amritsar. Meanwhile, a techie who returned to Bengaluru from the US via Dubai on March 1, tested positive for Covid-19 today. "He came to Bengaluru via Dubai at 8.30am on March 1. On March 2,3 & 4 he has not displayed symptoms and went to his office and was with his family. On March 5 he started displaying symptoms and went to a private hospital OPD," said Dr K Sudhakar, Medical Education Minister, Karnataka. Apart from the techie, his wife, 13-yr-old child and driver have also been placed under observation, he added. At least, 982 patients are currently under observation in Karnataka out of which 266 patients have completed 28 days of observation.

Two test positive for COVID-19 in Punjab and Karnataka, total cases in India rise to 45 

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Tuesday trashed former Ludhiana Deputy Superintendent of Police's (DSP) charges against Cabinet Minister Bharat Bhushan Ashu, saying had someone like Balwinder Singh Sekhon made such allegations against a senior commander in the Army, he would have been court-martialled.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Tuesday trashed former Ludhiana Deputy Superintendent of Police's (DSP) charges against Cabinet Minister Bharat Bhushan Ashu, saying had someone like Balwinder Singh Sekhon made such allegations against a senior commander in the Army, he would have been court-martialled. Reacting to former DSP's allegations against Ashu, which were raised by some Opposition members in the Punjab House a day earlier, the Chief Minister said in the state Assembly that the former was only trying to conduct a media trial with his baseless charges. "Unfortunately, this was not the Army and Sekhon could not be court-martialled," said Singh, asserting that if the departmental inquiry currently in progress against Sekhon finds him guilty, "he (the Chief Minister) would personally ensure the officer's dismissal under Article 311". Also Read: Punjab CM urges Imran Khan to ensure 'strict punishment' to culprits who killed Sikh youth Ashu had already been given a clean chit at every level, by the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (TADA) court and other courts, the Chief Minister said, adding that all cases referred to by Sekhon had been scrutinised through the judicial processes and no fresh evidence had been filed by the DSP. Responding to Leader of Opposition Harpal Cheema, Singh later said Ashu had mentioned all these cases in his election affidavits. "Sekhon was thrown out of police force and even dismissed from duty on many serious charges but was reinstated later. Now, he is making charges against my minister," Singh said, questioning the former DSP's locus standi in making any statements or allegations against Ashu. Also Read: Punjab CM Amarinder Singh intends to change Sidhu's portfolio Sekhon was placed under suspension on account of his unauthorised absence from duty and conduct, behaviour unbecoming of an officer and a member of the disciplined force. A charge sheet, as specified in Clause (v) to (ix) of rule 5 of the Punjab Civil Services (Punishment and Appeal) Rules 1970, was served to the delinquent officer on February 19. "Further, as per record, five criminal cases were registered against Sekhon and he was dismissed under Article 311 in 2002 for indulging in corrupt practices and his connections with bad elements," the Chief Minister said.

Punjab CM trashes ex-DSP's charges against minister

The death toll in a firecracker explosion during a religious procession in Punjab's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2-dead-9-injured-in-cracker-explosion-in-punjabs-tarn-taran-chief-minister-calls-for-magisterial-probe-279514">Tarn Taran district</a> has climbed to three as a 17-year-old boy succumbed to injuries on Sunday.

Firecrackers, being carried in a tractor trolley, exploded during the 'nagar kirtan' (religious procession) near Pahu village in Tarn Taran on Saturday.

"One more youth, identified as Gurkirat Singh, aged around 17 years, passed away in a hospital at Tarn Taran on Sunday," Acting Deputy Superintendent of Police, Tarn Taran city, Parbesh Chopra, said.

He said the condition of another injured boy was serious and he was admitted to the hospital's intensive care unit.

Earlier on Saturday, two boys, aged 12 and 17 years, were killed and nine others injured in the firecracker explosion.

Chief Minister Amarinder Singh had on Saturday ordered a magisterial probe into the incident and also announced an ex-gratia grant of Rs 5 lakh for the kin of the deceased and free treatment to the injured, admitted in the local civil hospital and Guru Nanak Dev Charitable Hospital.

The explosion took place when some youngsters were bursting crackers as part of celebratory fireworks near Daleke Mor, Palasaur, police station city.

"During the 'nagar kirtan', the youths were bursting crackers as part of celebratory fireworks. As they were doing so, the sparks fell on the tractor trolley, which was carrying explosive material -- potash and sulphur and firecrackers -- that led to an explosion," a police official had said.

The religious procession was going from Gurdwara Baba Deep Singh in Pahuwind village to Gurdwara Tahli Sahib in Chattiwind.

Expressing shock over the incident, the chief minister asked the sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) Tarn Taran to conduct a thorough inquiry into the incident in order to fix responsibility and ensure justice for the victims.

The SDM's inquiry would ascertain the full facts of the case, a government statement had said.&nbsp;

The death toll in a firecracker explosion during a religious procession in Punjab's Tarn Taran district has climbed to three as a 17-year-old boy succumbed to injuries on Sunday.

The death toll in a firecracker explosion during a religious procession in Punjab's Tarn Taran district has climbed to three as a 17-year-old boy succumbed to injuries on Sunday. Firecrackers, being carried in a tractor trolley, exploded during the 'nagar kirtan' (religious procession) near Pahu village in Tarn Taran on Saturday. "One more youth, identified as Gurkirat Singh, aged around 17 years, passed away in a hospital at Tarn Taran on Sunday," Acting Deputy Superintendent of Police, Tarn Taran city, Parbesh Chopra, said. He said the condition of another injured boy was serious and he was admitted to the hospital's intensive care unit. Earlier on Saturday, two boys, aged 12 and 17 years, were killed and nine others injured in the firecracker explosion. Chief Minister Amarinder Singh had on Saturday ordered a magisterial probe into the incident and also announced an ex-gratia grant of Rs 5 lakh for the kin of the deceased and free treatment to the injured, admitted in the local civil hospital and Guru Nanak Dev Charitable Hospital. The explosion took place when some youngsters were bursting crackers as part of celebratory fireworks near Daleke Mor, Palasaur, police station city. "During the 'nagar kirtan', the youths were bursting crackers as part of celebratory fireworks. As they were doing so, the sparks fell on the tractor trolley, which was carrying explosive material -- potash and sulphur and firecrackers -- that led to an explosion," a police official had said. The religious procession was going from Gurdwara Baba Deep Singh in Pahuwind village to Gurdwara Tahli Sahib in Chattiwind. Expressing shock over the incident, the chief minister asked the sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) Tarn Taran to conduct a thorough inquiry into the incident in order to fix responsibility and ensure justice for the victims. The SDM's inquiry would ascertain the full facts of the case, a government statement had said.

Death toll in firecracker explosion in Punjab's Tarn Taran climbs to 3

Two people lost their lives while nine got injured after a firecracker-laden trolley caught fire and exploded in Punjab's Tarn Taran.&nbsp;

Earlier Tarn Taran SSP Dhruv Dahiya said that as per the eyewitnesses, "14-15 individuals died on the spot"

Shortly after the mishap, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh took to Twitter and announced ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh to the kin of deceased.&nbsp;

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Saddened to hear about the tragic firecracker blast in Tarn Taran that left 2 dead and 9 injured. My govt will give ex-gratia of ₹5 lakhs to the kin of deceased &amp; free treatment for the injured. SDM Tarn Taran will probe the incident to fix responsibility.
— Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder/status/1226151938250534912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Saddened to hear about the tragic firecracker blast in Tarn Taran that left 2 dead and 9 injured. My government will give ex-gratia of ₹5 lakhs to the kin of deceased and free treatment for the injured. SDM Tarn Taran will probe the incident to fix responsibility," read his tweet.&nbsp;

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Amritsar IG-border range Sarinderpal Singh Parmar: 2 people have been killed in the accidental explosion and 11 have been injured. The numbers given by the SSP was according to the eyewitnesses. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Punjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Punjab</a> <a href="https://t.co/928M50R16A">https://t.co/928M50R16A</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1226130370988347393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The mishap occurred during a religious procession on Sunday evening.&nbsp;

"During nagar kirtan, firecrackers were being burnt using explosive material because of which tractor-trolley exploded accidentally," Dahiya told media.&nbsp;

Two people lost their lives while nine got injured after a firecracker-laden trolley caught fire and exploded in Punjab's Tarn Taran. Earlier Tarn Taran SSP Dhruv Dahiya said that as per the eyewitnesses, "14-15 individuals died on the spot" Shortly after the mishap, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh took to Twitter and announced ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh to the kin of deceased.

Two people lost their lives while nine got injured after a firecracker-laden trolley caught fire and exploded in Punjab's Tarn Taran. Earlier Tarn Taran SSP Dhruv Dahiya said that as per the eyewitnesses, "14-15 individuals died on the spot" Shortly after the mishap, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh took to Twitter and announced ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh to the kin of deceased. Saddened to hear about the tragic firecracker blast in Tarn Taran that left 2 dead and 9 injured. My govt will give ex-gratia of ₹5 lakhs to the kin of deceased & free treatment for the injured. SDM Tarn Taran will probe the incident to fix responsibility. — Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) February 8, 2020 × "Saddened to hear about the tragic firecracker blast in Tarn Taran that left 2 dead and 9 injured. My government will give ex-gratia of ₹5 lakhs to the kin of deceased and free treatment for the injured. SDM Tarn Taran will probe the incident to fix responsibility," read his tweet. Amritsar IG-border range Sarinderpal Singh Parmar: 2 people have been killed in the accidental explosion and 11 have been injured. The numbers given by the SSP was according to the eyewitnesses. #Punjab https://t.co/928M50R16A — ANI (@ANI) February 8, 2020 × The mishap occurred during a religious procession on Sunday evening. "During nagar kirtan, firecrackers were being burnt using explosive material because of which tractor-trolley exploded accidentally," Dahiya told media.

2 dead, 9 injured in cracker explosion in Punjab's Tarn Taran; Chief Minister calls for magisterial probe

Over dozens are reportedly dead in an explosion in Punjab's Tarn Taran after a firecracker-laden trolley accidentally caught fire. The mishap occurred during a religious procession on Sunday evening.&nbsp;

Tarn Taran SSP Dhruv Dahiya said that as per the eyewitnesses, "14-15 individuals died on the spot" while three people have been rushed to the nearest hospital in a critical state.&nbsp;

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Tarn Taran SSP Dhruv Dahiya: During nagar kirtan, firecrackers were being burnt using explosive material because of which tractor-trolley exploded accidentally. According to eyewitnesses,14-15 individuals died on spot&amp;3 have been admitted to hospital in critical condition.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Punjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Punjab</a> <a href="https://t.co/bIa6fsyQ0M">https://t.co/bIa6fsyQ0M</a> <a href="https://t.co/b11WYDEXKh">pic.twitter.com/b11WYDEXKh</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1226127166456225798?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"During nagar kirtan, firecrackers were being burnt using explosive material because of which tractor-trolley exploded accidentally," Dahiya told media.&nbsp;

More details are awaited.&nbsp;

Over dozens are reportedly dead in an explosion in Punjab's Tarn Taran after a firecracker-laden trolley accidentally caught fire. The mishap occurred during a religious procession on Sunday evening.

Over dozens are reportedly dead in an explosion in Punjab's Tarn Taran after a firecracker-laden trolley accidentally caught fire. The mishap occurred during a religious procession on Sunday evening. Tarn Taran SSP Dhruv Dahiya said that as per the eyewitnesses, "14-15 individuals died on the spot" while three people have been rushed to the nearest hospital in a critical state. Tarn Taran SSP Dhruv Dahiya: During nagar kirtan, firecrackers were being burnt using explosive material because of which tractor-trolley exploded accidentally. According to eyewitnesses,14-15 individuals died on spot&3 have been admitted to hospital in critical condition.#Punjab https://t.co/bIa6fsyQ0M pic.twitter.com/b11WYDEXKh — ANI (@ANI) February 8, 2020 × "During nagar kirtan, firecrackers were being burnt using explosive material because of which tractor-trolley exploded accidentally," Dahiya told media. More details are awaited.

Punjab: More than dozens reportedly dead after trolley carrying fireworks catches fire in Tarn Taran

India Meteorological Department (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/imd-issues-red-warning-for-delhi-as-cold-wave-conditions-continue-270768">IMD</a>) on Tuesday said the Western Disturbance is likely to cause light isolated rainfall over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi during the next 24 hours.

"The Western Disturbance as a cyclonic circulation lies over Afghanistan and neighbourhood between 2.1 and 3.6 km above mean sea level. Under its influence, scattered to fairly widespread rain/snow is likely over the western Himalayan region during the next 24 hours. It is very likely to cause light isolated rainfall over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh &amp; Delhi during the same period," IMD said in its bulletin.

The weather department also predicted dense fog in isolated parts over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, and Sikkim during the next 24 hours.

"Dense fog likely in isolated parts over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh &amp; Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim during next 24 hours and over Odisha, Assam, and Meghalaya and Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura during 48 hours in night/morning hours," read the bulletin.

A few regions in Himachal, including Shimla city, received snowfall today. Snow clearance work is underway on National Highway - 5 between Charabra and Kufri in Shimla district.

The air quality in the national capital today plunged to 'very poor' category with overall <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-reels-under-bouts-of-air-pollution-as-aqi-crosses-350-mark-267343">AQI</a> docked at 322 at 8:50 am, according to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhis-air-quality-expected-to-deteriorate-significantly-on-sunday-safar-180240">SAFAR</a>).

An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe or hazardous.

India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday said the Western Disturbance is likely to cause light isolated rainfall over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi during the next 24 hours.

India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday said the Western Disturbance is likely to cause light isolated rainfall over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi during the next 24 hours. "The Western Disturbance as a cyclonic circulation lies over Afghanistan and neighbourhood between 2.1 and 3.6 km above mean sea level. Under its influence, scattered to fairly widespread rain/snow is likely over the western Himalayan region during the next 24 hours. It is very likely to cause light isolated rainfall over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh & Delhi during the same period," IMD said in its bulletin. The weather department also predicted dense fog in isolated parts over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, and Sikkim during the next 24 hours. "Dense fog likely in isolated parts over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh & Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim during next 24 hours and over Odisha, Assam, and Meghalaya and Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura during 48 hours in night/morning hours," read the bulletin. A few regions in Himachal, including Shimla city, received snowfall today. Snow clearance work is underway on National Highway - 5 between Charabra and Kufri in Shimla district. The air quality in the national capital today plunged to 'very poor' category with overall AQI docked at 322 at 8:50 am, according to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe or hazardous.

India Meteorological Department predicts light rain over Punjab, Haryana, Delhi in next 24 hours

After <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/states-have-to-implement-caa-under-article-254-kerala-governor-275122">Kerala </a>and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-join-kerala-in-supreme-court-over-citizenship-amendment-act-punjab-cm-amarinder-singh-274934">Punjab</a>, the Maha Vikas Agadi (MVA) government is also mulling over a resolution against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/wion-edit-citizenship-amendment-act-absolute-power-comes-with-responsibility-269329">Citizenship Amendment&nbsp;Act</a>, 2019 in Maharashtra Assembly.

Speaking to ANI, Congress spokesperson <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bringing-real-estate-under-gst-will-be-a-disaster-congress-22376/amp">Raju Waghmare</a> said: "Our senior party leader Balasaheb Thorat has also shared his stand on the CAA. Even Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has said that we are against the CAA. As far as the resolution against CAA is concerned, our senior leaders of MVA will sit together and decide."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/states-have-to-implement-caa-under-article-254-kerala-governor-275122">States have to implement CAA under Article 254: Kerala Governor</a>

If this happens, then Maharashtra will be the third state to pass a resolution against CAA, which grants citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-musharrafs-death-penalty-on-hold-275103">Pakistan</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-says-deal-with-us-can-be-signed-before-end-of-this-month-report-275100">Afghanistan,</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-govt-muzzling-voices-of-dissent-274983">Bangladesh</a>, who came to India on or before December 31, 2014.

Emphasising that CAA is 'unconstitutional,' senior lawyer and Congress leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/section-144-cannot-be-used-to-suppress-freedom-of-speech-kapil-sibal-273479">Kapil Sibal </a>has said that every state Assembly has the constitutional right to pass a resolution and seek CAA's withdrawal.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/how-citizenship-amendment-act-caa-is-different-from-nrc-and-npr-274608">How Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) is different from NRC and NPR</a>

He added that it would be problematic to oppose the CAA if the law is declared to be 'constitutional' by the Supreme Court.

"I believe the CAA is unconstitutional. Every State Assembly has the constitutional right to pass a resolution and seek its withdrawal. When and if the law is declared to be constitutional by the Supreme Court then it will be problematic to oppose it/The fight must go on!" Sibal tweeted.

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I believe the CAA is unconstitutional 
 
Every State Assembly has the constitutional right to pass a resolution and seek it’s withdrawal 
 
When and if the law is declared to be constitutional by the Supreme Court then it will be problematic to oppose it 
 
The fight must go on !
— Kapil Sibal (@KapilSibal) <a href="https://twitter.com/KapilSibal/status/1218685599198003200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Earlier speaking at the Kerala Literature Festival on Saturday, the Congress leader had said that constitutionally no state can say that it will not implement the amended Citizenship Act, as doing so will be "unconstitutional".

Kerala government has also approached the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/heres-why-supreme-court-is-not-likely-to-quash-citizenship-amendment-act-268142">Supreme Court</a> against the CAA following the passage of a resolution against it in the state Assembly.

Punjab Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-join-kerala-in-supreme-court-over-citizenship-amendment-act-punjab-cm-amarinder-singh-274934">Amarinder Singh</a> has also announced that the Congress state government is going to join<a href="/search?query= Kerala"> </a>Kerala in the Supreme Court in the case.

After Kerala and Punjab, the Maha Vikas Agadi (MVA) government is also mulling over a resolution against the Citizenship Amendment Act, 2019 in Maharashtra Assembly.

After Kerala and Punjab, the Maha Vikas Agadi (MVA) government is also mulling over a resolution against the Citizenship Amendment Act, 2019 in Maharashtra Assembly. Speaking to ANI, Congress spokesperson Raju Waghmare said: "Our senior party leader Balasaheb Thorat has also shared his stand on the CAA. Even Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has said that we are against the CAA. As far as the resolution against CAA is concerned, our senior leaders of MVA will sit together and decide." Also read: States have to implement CAA under Article 254: Kerala Governor If this happens, then Maharashtra will be the third state to pass a resolution against CAA, which grants citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, who came to India on or before December 31, 2014. Emphasising that CAA is 'unconstitutional,' senior lawyer and Congress leader Kapil Sibal has said that every state Assembly has the constitutional right to pass a resolution and seek CAA's withdrawal. Also read: How Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) is different from NRC and NPR He added that it would be problematic to oppose the CAA if the law is declared to be 'constitutional' by the Supreme Court. "I believe the CAA is unconstitutional. Every State Assembly has the constitutional right to pass a resolution and seek its withdrawal. When and if the law is declared to be constitutional by the Supreme Court then it will be problematic to oppose it/The fight must go on!" Sibal tweeted. I believe the CAA is unconstitutional Every State Assembly has the constitutional right to pass a resolution and seek it’s withdrawal When and if the law is declared to be constitutional by the Supreme Court then it will be problematic to oppose it The fight must go on ! — Kapil Sibal (@KapilSibal) January 19, 2020 × Earlier speaking at the Kerala Literature Festival on Saturday, the Congress leader had said that constitutionally no state can say that it will not implement the amended Citizenship Act, as doing so will be "unconstitutional". Kerala government has also approached the Supreme Court against the CAA following the passage of a resolution against it in the state Assembly. Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh has also announced that the Congress state government is going to join Kerala in the Supreme Court in the case.

After Kerala, Punjab, now Maharashtra mulls resolution against Citizenship Amendment Act

The main culprit of the Nankana Sahib Gurdwara incident&nbsp;who incited <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sikh-youth-killed-by-unidentified-person-in-peshawar-272286">violence</a> against Sikhs, Imran Chisti was arrested by police on Sunday.&nbsp;

The arrest comes after the police faced flak for not taking action against Chishti, who comfortably sitting at his home released an apology video following the incident. 
 
Chishti led a violent mob of local residents on Friday that vandalized the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-condemns-the-nankana-sahib-gurdwara-incident-272270">Nankana Gurdwara Sahib</a> and pelted stones. Chishti is the brother of Ehsaan, the man who had abducted a Sikh girl Jagjit Kaur, daughter of the Gurdwara's panthi. 
 
The mob was also seen shouting anti-Sikh slogans outside Nankana Sahib. In video clips tweeted on social media, Chishti spewed anti-Sikh slurs. 
 
On late Friday, he released a video message, where he called off the protest because his family members were released by the police.

Watch:&nbsp;India condemn on misbehaves with Sikhs &amp; stone pelting at Nankana Sahib in Pak

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India strongly condemned the "wanton acts of destruction and desecration" at Nankana Sahib Gurdwara and called upon Pakistan to take immediate steps to ensure the safety and welfare of the members of the Sikh community.

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, on Friday evening, tweeted that it was alarmed by the situation in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/mob-dispersed-from-nankana-gurdwara-after-man-released-who-abducted-sikh-girl-272031">Nankana Sahib</a>. It urged the Punjab government to ensure the safety and security of the Sikh community and their holy places.

The main culprit of the Nankana Sahib Gurdwara incident who incited violence against Sikhs, Imran Chisti was arrested by police on Sunday. The arrest comes after the police faced flak for not taking action against Chishti, who comfortably sitting at his home released an apology video following the incident.

The main culprit of the Nankana Sahib Gurdwara incident who incited violence against Sikhs, Imran Chisti was arrested by police on Sunday. The arrest comes after the police faced flak for not taking action against Chishti, who comfortably sitting at his home released an apology video following the incident. Chishti led a violent mob of local residents on Friday that vandalized the Nankana Gurdwara Sahib and pelted stones. Chishti is the brother of Ehsaan, the man who had abducted a Sikh girl Jagjit Kaur, daughter of the Gurdwara's panthi. The mob was also seen shouting anti-Sikh slogans outside Nankana Sahib. In video clips tweeted on social media, Chishti spewed anti-Sikh slurs. On late Friday, he released a video message, where he called off the protest because his family members were released by the police. Watch: India condemn on misbehaves with Sikhs & stone pelting at Nankana Sahib in Pak × India strongly condemned the "wanton acts of destruction and desecration" at Nankana Sahib Gurdwara and called upon Pakistan to take immediate steps to ensure the safety and welfare of the members of the Sikh community. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, on Friday evening, tweeted that it was alarmed by the situation in Nankana Sahib. It urged the Punjab government to ensure the safety and security of the Sikh community and their holy places.

Imran Chishti, the man who incited Nankana Sahib Gurdwara violence arrested

Punjab Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nankana-sahib-vandalism-rescue-sikhs-stranded-at-gurdwara-punjab-cm-appeals-to-imran-khan-271985">Captain Amarinder Singh</a> on Sunday expressed anguish over the murder of a Sikh youth in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sikh-youth-killed-by-unidentified-person-in-peshawar-272286">Peshawar</a> and urged Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to ensure "strict punishment" to the perpetrators.

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Shocked &amp; anguished over killing of Sikh youth Ravinder Singh in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a>, coming on heels of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NankanaSahibAttack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NankanaSahibAttack</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a> govt must ensure thorough investigation &amp; strict punishment for the culprits. This is the time to act on what you preach.<a href="https://t.co/80hTQMTXm2">https://t.co/80hTQMTXm2</a>
— Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder/status/1213788169075707904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Shocked and anguished over the killing of Sikh youth Ravinder Singh in #Pakistan, coming on heels of #NankanaSahibAttack. @ImranKhanPTI govt must ensure a thorough investigation and strict punishment for the culprits. This is the time to act on what you preach," he tweeted. 
 
Earlier today, the 25-year-old youth, identified as Ravinder Singh, was found murdered in Peshawar in Pakistan. 
 
The Peshawar Police said that the victim's body was found in the area under the Chamkani police station. 
 
Singh was the brother of an Islamabad-based journalist, Harmeet Singh. 
 
A resident of Shangla district of Khyber <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-import-polio-markers-from-india-270229">Pakhtunkhwa</a> province, the youth had come to Peshawar to shop for his wedding, according to Pakistani media reports. 
 
Earlier in the day, India condemned the killing of a Sikh youth in Peshawar called upon the Pakistan government to "stop prevaricating and take immediate action" to apprehend the perpetrators.

Watch:&nbsp;India strongly condemns vandalism, stone pelting at Sikhs holy shrine Nankana Sahib in Pakistan

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"India strongly condemns targeted killing of minority Sikh community member in Peshawar (Pakistan) that follows recent despicable vandalism and desecration of Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthan at Nankana Sahib and the unresolved case of abduction, forced conversion and marriage of a Sikh girl," the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-slammed-by-syed-akbaruddin-for-sharing-a-seven-years-old-fake-video-272024">Ministry of External Affairs</a> (MEA) said in a statement. 
 
"India calls upon the Government of Pakistan to stop prevaricating and take immediate action to apprehend and give exemplary punishment to the perpetrators of these heinous acts," the ministry added. 
 
The killing of Ravinder Singh in Peshawar came just two days after a Muslim mob's attack on the revered Gurdwara Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Sikh founder Guru Nanak Dev. 
 
An angry group of local residents had pelted stones at the holy Sikh shrine in Pakistan on Friday evening. The group was led by the family of a boy who had abducted a Sikh girl, Jagjit Kaur, from her home in August last year. 
 
India, on Friday, had strongly condemned the vandalism at the Gurdwara Nankana Sahib and called upon the Pakistan government to take immediate steps to ensure the safety and security of the Sikh community in the neighbouring country.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Sunday expressed anguish over the murder of a Sikh youth in Peshawar and urged Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to ensure "strict punishment" to the perpetrators.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Sunday expressed anguish over the murder of a Sikh youth in Peshawar and urged Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to ensure "strict punishment" to the perpetrators. Shocked & anguished over killing of Sikh youth Ravinder Singh in #Pakistan, coming on heels of #NankanaSahibAttack. @ImranKhanPTI govt must ensure thorough investigation & strict punishment for the culprits. This is the time to act on what you preach.https://t.co/80hTQMTXm2 — Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) January 5, 2020 × "Shocked and anguished over the killing of Sikh youth Ravinder Singh in #Pakistan, coming on heels of #NankanaSahibAttack. @ImranKhanPTI govt must ensure a thorough investigation and strict punishment for the culprits. This is the time to act on what you preach," he tweeted. Earlier today, the 25-year-old youth, identified as Ravinder Singh, was found murdered in Peshawar in Pakistan. The Peshawar Police said that the victim's body was found in the area under the Chamkani police station. Singh was the brother of an Islamabad-based journalist, Harmeet Singh. A resident of Shangla district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the youth had come to Peshawar to shop for his wedding, according to Pakistani media reports. Earlier in the day, India condemned the killing of a Sikh youth in Peshawar called upon the Pakistan government to "stop prevaricating and take immediate action" to apprehend the perpetrators. Watch: India strongly condemns vandalism, stone pelting at Sikhs holy shrine Nankana Sahib in Pakistan × "India strongly condemns targeted killing of minority Sikh community member in Peshawar (Pakistan) that follows recent despicable vandalism and desecration of Gurdwara Sri Janam Asthan at Nankana Sahib and the unresolved case of abduction, forced conversion and marriage of a Sikh girl," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement. "India calls upon the Government of Pakistan to stop prevaricating and take immediate action to apprehend and give exemplary punishment to the perpetrators of these heinous acts," the ministry added. The killing of Ravinder Singh in Peshawar came just two days after a Muslim mob's attack on the revered Gurdwara Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Sikh founder Guru Nanak Dev. An angry group of local residents had pelted stones at the holy Sikh shrine in Pakistan on Friday evening. The group was led by the family of a boy who had abducted a Sikh girl, Jagjit Kaur, from her home in August last year. India, on Friday, had strongly condemned the vandalism at the Gurdwara Nankana Sahib and called upon the Pakistan government to take immediate steps to ensure the safety and security of the Sikh community in the neighbouring country.

Punjab CM urges Imran Khan to ensure 'strict punishment' to culprits who killed Sikh youth

Pakistan's Punjab provincial assembly has passed a resolution against blasphemous content on social media. #WION #Pakistan

WION Dispatch: Pakistan's Punjab to tighten blasphemy laws

Pakistan has issued special permits to Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa al Thani and nine other members of the royal family to hunt endangered birds Houbara Bustard during the 2019-20 hunting season, the media reported after quoting sources.

The allotted hunting areas are spread over Sindh, Balochistan and Punjab provinces of the country. The permit, which is person-specific, allows huntsmen to kill 100 Houbara Bustards in a 10-day safari during the three-month hunting season between November 1, 2019, and January 31, 2020, Dawn reported.

The permit holders include the Qatari Emir, his uncle, brother and seven other royal dignitaries of the Gulf nation.

The decision has been met with severe criticism in the country.

Originally the inhabitant of the colder central Asian region, the Houbara Bustard, in order to avoid harsh weather conditions in its habitat, migrates southwards to spend the winter in a relatively warm environment here every year.

Keeping in view its dwindling population, the migratory bird is not only protected under various international nature conservation treaties but its hunting is also banned under local wildlife protection laws. Pakistanis themselves are not allowed to hunt this bird.

It is evident that Pakistan has used the hunting permit as a foreign policy card to influence dignitaries from oil-rich Gulf nations.

Sources divulged that earlier when the ruling Tehreek-i-Insaf party was in the opposition, it used to criticise the federal government over this issue and condemned the hunting of the endangered birds in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where the party was a part of the provincial government.

Pakistan has issued special permits to Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa al Thani and nine other members of the royal family to hunt endangered birds Houbara Bustard during the 2019-20 hunting season, the media reported after quoting sources.

Pakistan has issued special permits to Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa al Thani and nine other members of the royal family to hunt endangered birds Houbara Bustard during the 2019-20 hunting season, the media reported after quoting sources. The allotted hunting areas are spread over Sindh, Balochistan and Punjab provinces of the country. The permit, which is person-specific, allows huntsmen to kill 100 Houbara Bustards in a 10-day safari during the three-month hunting season between November 1, 2019, and January 31, 2020, Dawn reported. The permit holders include the Qatari Emir, his uncle, brother and seven other royal dignitaries of the Gulf nation. The decision has been met with severe criticism in the country. Originally the inhabitant of the colder central Asian region, the Houbara Bustard, in order to avoid harsh weather conditions in its habitat, migrates southwards to spend the winter in a relatively warm environment here every year. Keeping in view its dwindling population, the migratory bird is not only protected under various international nature conservation treaties but its hunting is also banned under local wildlife protection laws. Pakistanis themselves are not allowed to hunt this bird. It is evident that Pakistan has used the hunting permit as a foreign policy card to influence dignitaries from oil-rich Gulf nations. Sources divulged that earlier when the ruling Tehreek-i-Insaf party was in the opposition, it used to criticise the federal government over this issue and condemned the hunting of the endangered birds in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where the party was a part of the provincial government.

Pakistan grants special rights to Qatari Emir, 9 others to hunt endangered birds

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday said that stubble can be converted into compressed natural gas (CNG) and Punjab and Haryana governments should take steps in this regard as it would generate employment and farmers will be paid off.

"I have met several experts, the left stubble can be converted into CNG. I have talked to Indraprastha Gas Limited and they are willing to buy it. Why do not Haryana, Punjab government promote it, they shall take steps in this regard. Farmers will get money and youth will be employed," Kejriwal told reporters.

Expressing concern over the increasing pollution in the national capital which has reached to 'severe category', the Chief Minister said,&nbsp;"Stubble can be converted into coal and it can be bought by the National Thermal Power Corporation Limited (NTPC)."

He said that Delhi's image is "not good in the world" when it comes to air quality.

"We all are seeing that Delhi's own pollution is not that bad. Till October 10, the air quality index was in the satisfactory category as there was no stubble burning according to the images shown the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Why Delhi people are suffering. We have reduced pollution by 25 per cent. But due to Haryana and Punjab, we are facing such a situation. I am concerned about Delhi's''&nbsp;people health," he said.

He reiterated that pollution is in the `severe` category in Delhi due to stubble burning from 10 October.

"Smoke in Delhi decreased for three-four days due to rains in Punjab and Haryana. The Supreme Court`s order is not being followed by both the state governments," the Chief Minister said.

Kejriwal said that the Odd-Even scheme can be extended in the city, if required. The scheme has been implemented from November 4 to 15.

It is applicable from 8 am to 8 pm, except on Sundays. The Chief Minister further informed that a Mohalla clinic was inaugurated in Greater Kailash this morning.

Showing happiness over its establishment, Kejriwal said, "Nothing could be greater than the achievement that people of Greater Kailash, who visit hospitals like AIIMS and Forti, are visiting government dispensary.""I am so happy that the Delhi government`s health system is in par with the private hospitals," he said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday said that stubble can be converted into compressed natural gas (CNG) and Punjab and Haryana governments should take steps in this regard as it would generate employment and farmers will be paid off.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday said that stubble can be converted into compressed natural gas (CNG) and Punjab and Haryana governments should take steps in this regard as it would generate employment and farmers will be paid off. "I have met several experts, the left stubble can be converted into CNG. I have talked to Indraprastha Gas Limited and they are willing to buy it. Why do not Haryana, Punjab government promote it, they shall take steps in this regard. Farmers will get money and youth will be employed," Kejriwal told reporters. Expressing concern over the increasing pollution in the national capital which has reached to 'severe category', the Chief Minister said, "Stubble can be converted into coal and it can be bought by the National Thermal Power Corporation Limited (NTPC)." He said that Delhi's image is "not good in the world" when it comes to air quality. "We all are seeing that Delhi's own pollution is not that bad. Till October 10, the air quality index was in the satisfactory category as there was no stubble burning according to the images shown the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Why Delhi people are suffering. We have reduced pollution by 25 per cent. But due to Haryana and Punjab, we are facing such a situation. I am concerned about Delhi's'' people health," he said. He reiterated that pollution is in the `severe` category in Delhi due to stubble burning from 10 October. "Smoke in Delhi decreased for three-four days due to rains in Punjab and Haryana. The Supreme Court`s order is not being followed by both the state governments," the Chief Minister said. Kejriwal said that the Odd-Even scheme can be extended in the city, if required. The scheme has been implemented from November 4 to 15. It is applicable from 8 am to 8 pm, except on Sundays. The Chief Minister further informed that a Mohalla clinic was inaugurated in Greater Kailash this morning. Showing happiness over its establishment, Kejriwal said, "Nothing could be greater than the achievement that people of Greater Kailash, who visit hospitals like AIIMS and Forti, are visiting government dispensary.""I am so happy that the Delhi government`s health system is in par with the private hospitals," he said.

Punjab, Haryana should take steps to convert stubble into CNG, coal: Kejriwal

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