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At least 1,703 Indians have been deported this year, with Punjab accounting for the highest number at 620, according to government data. 
Many of them, despite heavy debt and humiliation, continue to look for ways to head abroad &mdash; whether to the US again or to Canada, Europe, Australia, or the Gulf.
Most were caught using the illegal &ldquo;donkey route,&rdquo; which involves dangerous travel through multiple countries before reaching the US, only to end up in detention and eventual deportation. 
Yet, desperation and debt are driving fresh attempts.
Families Taking Risks Again
Harwinder Singh, 43, from Hoshiarpur, was among the 104 Indians deported on February 5. 
Depressed after his return, he has since left for Europe on a tourist visa, arranged by the same agent who earlier sent him through Qatar, Brazil, Peru, and Panama. 
His wife confirmed that the family had paid ₹42 lakh the first time, but declined to reveal how much was spent now.
Amit Badhan, 23, from Jalandhar, also deported in February, is now approaching registered agents for legal migration. 
&ldquo;We learnt our lesson the hard way. I still want to go abroad but this time legally,&rdquo; he said, recalling the stigma he faced after returning.
IELTS Seen as a Ticket Abroad
In Amritsar&rsquo;s Rajatal village, Akashdeep Singh, 23, was deported after an eight-month ordeal via the donkey route. 
His family, burdened with debt after selling land and paying ₹55 lakh to an agent, is now considering sending him to Australia through marriage to a woman with the required IELTS score.
&ldquo;He now helps in farming, but we want to give him another chance,&rdquo; said his father, Swaran Singh, who has given up hopes of recovering money from the agent.
Gulf and Canada the Alternatives
Mandeep Singh, 29, from Tarn Taran, is planning to move to Dubai for work after failing to find employment at home. 
His family sold property and borrowed money to pay ₹35 lakh to an agent for his failed US trip. 
Though a police complaint was lodged, no action has been taken against the agent.
Meanwhile, some have managed to succeed on their second attempt. 
Akash Rana, 20, from Haryana&rsquo;s Karnal district, who was deported in February, has already reached Canada. 
His family spent ₹45 lakh, selling land to fund his travel.&nbsp;
&ldquo;He will soon get good work and send us money,&rdquo; his brother said.
Desperation Drives the Cycle
Despite deportations, stigma, and financial ruin, the incentive to go abroad remains high in Punjab and Haryana. 
For many families struggling with unemployment and debt, foreign migration &mdash; whether legal or illegal &mdash; continues to be seen as the only path to survival.

Deported Indians still chase risky foreign dreams

Debt-ridden deportees from Punjab, Haryana eye US, Canada, Australia, Gulf for fresh start

Deported Indians Chase Costly Foreign Dreams Again

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Punjab Excise and Taxation Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Sunday announced that the State Excise Department has uncovered a major racket involving the refilling of premium scotch and whiskey bottles with low-quality alcohol. The operations also led to the seizure of a significant quantity of illicit liquor.
The raids, conducted in the Ludhiana (East) range based on intelligence inputs, were supervised by Excise and Taxation Commissioner Jitendra Jorwal along with other senior officials.
"Our teams acted with precision to not only seize illegal stock but also to expose a new modus operandi where criminals are endangering public health by refilling premium bottles with low-quality liquor. This is a clear case of fraud and a serious threat to consumer safety, and we will not tolerate it," Cheema said.
In the first operation, enforcement teams dismantled a sophisticated network in Ludhiana refilling high-end imported liquor brands, including Glenlivet, Johnnie Walker Gold Label, and Chivas Regal, with cheaper Indian Made Foreign Liquor and Punjab Medium Liquor. Two suspects, Amit Vij and Pankaj Saini, were apprehended. Authorities recovered 106 empty bottles, 39 refilled bottles, bottling accessories, and a vehicle. An FIR has been filed at Police Station Division 3 in Ludhiana, and investigations are ongoing.
In a separate operation, excise officials intercepted Vikramjeet Singh in Samrala with 60 bottles of illicit liquor labeled "For Sale in Chandigarh only." The consignment had been illegally smuggled into Punjab, leading to his arrest. A case has been registered under the relevant provisions of the Punjab Excise Act, 1914.
Minister Cheema stressed that the Excise Department will continue rigorous enforcement drives across the state, including surprise inspections and coordinated inter-state operations, to dismantle illegal supply chains and prevent the circulation of spurious and non-duty-paid alcohol. He also urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to local excise or police authorities, emphasizing that public cooperation is key to eliminating the menace of illicit liquor in Punjab.
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Punjab Racket Busted Over Fake Scotch Bottles

Punjab Excise uncovers illegal refilling of premium scotch with cheap liquor, arrests made

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In a significant crackdown on illegal pharmaceutical drug supply, the Amritsar Police Commissionerate has dismantled a major opioid distribution chain involving tramadol, tracing its origin from a small seizure in Amritsar to a full-scale manufacturing unit in Haridwar, Uttarakhand.
The operation began with the arrest of a local drug peddler, Ravinder Singh alias Nikka, after the seizure of just 35 tramadol tablets. What followed was a massive investigation that uncovered 74,465 tramadol tablets, 50 alprazolam tablets, and 325 kilograms of raw tramadol within a span of just 15 days.
Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav confirmed the arrest of six individuals, including chemists, distributors, and the plant manager of Lucent Biotech Ltd. Those arrested include Hari Kishore (Plant Manager at Lucent Biotech, Roorkee), Bikram (owner-partner of Recall Lifesciences, Roorkee), Manish Kumar Arora, Pooran Jatav, and Kulwinder Singh alias Kinda, a medical store owner from Kathunangal.
The seized tramadol strips were marked with &ldquo;government supply only &ndash; not for sale,&rdquo; suggesting illegal diversion of stock meant for official use. Several pharmaceutical units found violating norms have been sealed, and their records are under scrutiny.
Commissioner of Police (Amritsar) Gurpreet Singh Bhullar stated that joint raids with drug inspectors led to the seizure of 4,130 unlabelled tramadol tablets and 325 kg of raw material from pharma units in Roorkee. This is in addition to the earlier recovery of over 70,000 tablets and Rs 7.69 lakh in suspected drug proceeds.
During interrogation, Hari Kishore reportedly admitted to illegally printing &ldquo;government supply only&rdquo; on the tablet packaging and acknowledged the illegal sale of tramadol tablets originally manufactured for another legal firm to Recall Lifesciences.
Further investigation into the case is ongoing. [Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by the Benefit News editorial team and is published directly from the IANS news feed]
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Punjab Police Busts Pharma Opioid Supply Chain

Amritsar Police cracks tramadol racket, links lead to pharma units in Uttarakhand

Punjab Police on Friday detained Shubham Dubey, an unemployed software engineer, for allegedly sending bomb threat emails targeting the Golden Temple in Amritsar. The arrest took place in Faridabad, and the investigation has reached an &ldquo;advanced stage,&rdquo; said Commissioner of Police Gurpreet Bhullar.
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), which manages Sikh religious affairs including the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple), reported receiving five threatening emails since July 14, warning of RDX explosions. Two FIRs have been registered in the case.
Following the threats, bomb disposal squads, SGPC task force teams, and additional security personnel have been deployed at the Golden Temple to ensure the safety of devotees and the premises.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann held a high-level meeting with top police officials, including DGP Gaurav Yadav, and assured strict action. In a post on X, Mann said, &ldquo;We will not allow any compromise on Punjab's security. Religious places are sacred to us all.&rdquo;
Speaker of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, Kultar Singh Sandhwan, condemned the threats, calling them an attempt to disturb communal harmony. &ldquo;Terrorism has no religion. The culprits will face the harshest punishment,&rdquo; he stated.
Authorities have urged citizens not to panic and remain cautious of misinformation.
[Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by the Benefit News editorial team and is published directly from the IANS news feed.]

Unemployed software engineer held for email threats to Golden Temple; probe underway

Golden Temple Bomb Threat: Engineer Detained

Four Dead, 27 Injured in Midnight Explosion at Firecracker Unit in Fatuhiwala
 Four persons lost their lives and 27 others sustained injuries following a powerful explosion in a firecracker manufacturing unit at Fatuhiwala village in the Lambi subdivision during the early hours of Friday.
The blast, which occurred shortly after 1 am, caused widespread panic among the approximately 40 workers present at the time. Many had reportedly retired for the night following a late shift.
&ldquo;We were asleep after completing our shift when a massive blast shook the building. Many of us were trapped beneath the rubble,&rdquo; recounted Arun Kumar, a factory worker who managed to escape.
Local residents described the facility as a two-storey structure, with several rooms on the upper floor. The force of the explosion brought down parts of the building, leaving multiple workers buried under debris.
Emergency services, including police personnel and teams from the fire department, responded swiftly to the scene and initiated rescue efforts. As of the time of filing this report, operations were still underway, with some individuals believed to be trapped inside the remains of the structure.
Lambi Deputy Superintendent of Police Jaspal Singh confirmed that four bodies had been recovered, and 27 injured individuals had been transported to AIIMS, Bathinda, for treatment. &ldquo;This was a licensed firecracker unit situated away from residential dwellings. A detailed investigation will be conducted to determine the cause of the blast,&rdquo; he stated.
Authorities have yet to ascertain what triggered the explosion. A forensic team is expected to arrive to assist in the probe.
Local officials expressed concern that the casualty count could rise, given the scale of the destruction and ongoing recovery efforts.

blast in fire cracker factory (representative image)

Midnight explosion at licensed factory leaves four dead, 27 injured; rescue ops ongoing

Blast in Firecracker Unit Kills 4 in Fatuhiwala

Despite heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following the recent Pahalgam attack, Punjab Police have confirmed that the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) Qualifier 1 and Eliminator matches will go ahead as scheduled, with no anticipated disruptions due to security concerns.
The IPL faced a temporary suspension lasting one week in the wake of a military confrontation between the two nations. The tournament has since resumed under a revised schedule. Mullanpur is set to host the Qualifier 1 on Thursday, followed by the Eliminator on Friday. The subsequent Qualifier 2 and the final are slated to take place in Ahmedabad on June 1 and 3, respectively.
&ldquo;There are two very important matches at Mullanpur stadium tomorrow and day after tomorrow. There is a qualifier and an eliminator. People are coming from all corners of India. There is a lot of enthusiasm among the people,&rdquo; said Arpit Shukla, Special Director General of Police (Law and Order), Punjab, during a briefing on Wednesday.
To ensure safety and order during the high-profile fixtures, Punjab Police have implemented a comprehensive security plan. &ldquo;We have arranged for extensive security around the stadium and its periphery. Today, there was a review of it. A police force of more than 2,500 have been deployed, including around 65 Gazetted officers,&rdquo; Shukla stated.
He further noted, &ldquo;We will ensure that those who are coming do not face any kind of trouble. On the other hand, the security measures will be very strict. Yesterday, we had a rehearsal of the mock drill. Today also the police force is rehearsing the mock drill.&rdquo;
Earlier this month, India executed its first civil defence drill since 1971, hours before initiating Operation Sindoor.
 (With inputs from agencies)

Punjab Police confirm IPL matches in Mullanpur will continue as planned with over 2,500 personnel on duty.

IPL Knockouts to Proceed Amid Tight Security

Golden Temple Priest Refutes Army Claim of Air Defence Deployment During Operation Sindoor
&nbsp;
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Giani Raghbir Singh, the head granthi of the Golden Temple, on Tuesday firmly denied claims made by senior army officials that the Indian Army had deployed air defence guns within the Golden Temple complex during Operation Sindoor, which was aimed at countering drone and missile threats from across the border.
The statement came in response to remarks by Lieutenant General Sumer Ivan D'Cunha, who oversees the army&rsquo;s air defence operations. The officer had publicly stated that the deployment of air defence systems at the Golden Temple had been undertaken with the approval of the head granthi, praising the cooperation extended by the shrine authorities in view of the perceived threat.
Lieutenant General D'Cunha&rsquo;s statement was supported by earlier comments from Major General Kartik C Seshadri, General Officer Commanding of the 15 Infantry Division, who had alleged that the Golden Temple had been targeted by drones and missiles from Pakistan. He further claimed that India&rsquo;s air defence mechanisms had successfully neutralised the threats.
However, Giani Raghbir Singh dismissed these claims as &ldquo;propaganda&rdquo;. Addressing the media in Amritsar, he stated categorically that no army official had contacted him, nor was any approval sought or granted for deploying military equipment within the sacred premises of Sri Harmandar Sahib. He further clarified that he had been on an extended visit to the United States from 24 April to 14 May and was not present in India during the reported conflict.
&ldquo;The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) must investigate these claims and initiate internal action if any SGPC official is found involved in such matters,&rdquo; he added.
In a separate official clarification issued by the SGPC, additional head granthi Giani Amarjit Singh, who officiated in Giani Raghbir Singh&rsquo;s absence, reiterated that while the management had abided by local authorities&rsquo; request to implement a blackout at the shrine during the period of tension, no military deployment took place. &ldquo;Lights were switched off in compliance with guidelines, but religious sanctity and codes of conduct were maintained,&rdquo; he said.
He firmly denied granting any permission to army personnel and confirmed that no weapons were stationed at the shrine at any point.
SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami also weighed in, stating he had not been contacted by the army and there had been no installation of air defence systems at the Golden Temple. &ldquo;Had such an action been taken, the devotees performing&nbsp;sewa&nbsp;would certainly have noticed,&rdquo; he said.
The SGPC has yet to announce whether it will initiate a formal inquiry into the matter.

Golden Temple head granthi refutes Army’s claim of air defence guns at shrine complex

Golden Temple Denies Army Gun Deployment Claim

Farm Labourer Killed, Nine Injured in Mysterious Aircraft Crash in Punjab Village
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A tragic incident unfolded in the early hours of Wednesday when an unidentified aircraft&nbsp;crashed and burst into flames in Aklian Kalan village, located in Punjab&rsquo;s Bathinda district. The impact resulted in the death of one individual and injuries to at least nine others.
The deceased has been identified as Govind, a native of Charkhi Dadri in Haryana, who had been working in the area as a farm labourer. Details about the pilot remain unknown at this time.
The aircraft came down in a harvested wheat field approximately 500 metres from the nearest residential area, around 2am. The site of the crash lies about 20 kilometres from the district headquarters.
Officials have remained silent on the identity and origin of the aircraft, with the district administration stating that any formal statement will be issued by defence authorities. Security forces, including defence personnel and local police, have secured the area, while fire services were deployed to control the blaze.
Local residents recounted being awoken by the deafening noise of the crash. According to villagers, the aircraft caught fire on impact. As several people rushed to the site in an attempt to assist those on board, an explosion occurred, resulting in injuries from both flames and flying debris.
Govind was taken to the public health centre in Goniana, where he was declared dead on arrival. The injured were initially treated at the Shaheed Bhai Mani Singh Civil Hospital, with at least one person transferred to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Bathinda for further care.
Senior administrative and police officials remain present both at the crash site and the hospitals involved in treating the wounded.

Unidentified aircraft crashed fell from sky Bhatinda District

Farm labourer dies, nine injured as aircraft crashes and explodes near Bathinda village

Unidentified Aircraft Crash Kills One in Punjab

<div>The Punjab Police have successfully arrested two individuals suspected of espionage, who were allegedly leaking sensitive and confidential information about the Indian Army to Pakistani handlers.</div>
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<div>The two arrested spies, identified as residents of Pakistan, were apprehended after an extensive investigation by the Punjab Police&rsquo;s Counter-Intelligence unit. According to officials, the spies were actively engaged in passing military secrets, including strategic details, troop movements, and other classified data to intelligence agencies across the border.</div>
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<div>Sources within the police department confirmed that the accused spies were using sophisticated communication methods to transmit the leaked information. The police have seized a range of digital devices, including smartphones and laptops, which contained encrypted messages and evidence linking them to espionage activities.</div>
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<div>The arrested individuals had been under surveillance for months, and their activities were tracked through a combination of technical surveillance and field intelligence. Punjab Police believe that the duo had been operating in close coordination with Pakistani intelligence agencies, possibly working as informants.</div>
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<div>Authorities are now investigating whether these individuals had access to additional military personnel or had managed to recruit other informants in sensitive areas of the armed forces. The police suspect that the information they were leaking could have posed a significant threat to national security, especially given the ongoing tensions along the India-Pakistan border.</div>
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<div>During interrogation, the suspects reportedly confessed to their involvement in the espionage network. They revealed that they had been promised large sums of money in exchange for gathering and transmitting military intelligence.</div>
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<div>The police have yet to release further details about the specific nature of the leaked information, but security experts believe the case highlights the increasing threat of foreign espionage in India, particularly in border states like Punjab.</div>
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<div>This arrest has raised concerns about the growing sophistication of espionage operations against India. Experts argue that Pakistan's intelligence services have long been active in attempting to infiltrate sensitive sectors of the Indian military and government.</div>
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<div>Security agencies are now focused on ensuring that this espionage network is dismantled completely to prevent further breaches of national security. The investigation is ongoing, with police working to identify any additional accomplices.</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>The ongoing issue of espionage between India and Pakistan has been a longstanding concern for both nations. Over the years, there have been several incidents where individuals have been arrested for espionage activities, with both countries accusing each other of using spies to gather sensitive military information.</div>
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<div>As tensions continue to simmer between the two nations, incidents like these underscore the challenges faced by security forces in safeguarding classified information from foreign infiltration.</div>
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<div>The arrests by Punjab Police serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by espionage activities, especially in border areas. Authorities are emphasizing the importance of maintaining vigilance and ensuring that any breach of national security is addressed promptly.</div>
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<div>As the investigation continues, the focus remains on uncovering the full extent of the espionage network and preventing further compromises to the country&rsquo;s security.</div>

Two Pakistani nationals arrested for allegedly passing classified Indian Army information across the border; digital evidence seized, investigation underway

Punjab Police Bust Espionage Network, Arrest Two Spies Leaking Army Secrets to Pakistan

A 69-year-old Pakistani national, Abdul Waheed, died of cardiac arrest in Amritsar on Wednesday ahead of his return, officials confirmed. Waheed had been residing in India for the last 17 years and was found by police to be in possession of an expired visa.&nbsp;
He had been brought from Srinagar by the Jammu and Kashmir police for return to Pakistan.
Cross-border movement through the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at the Attari border continued as a total of 224 individuals holding No Obligation to Return to India (NORI) visas crossed into India. In parallel, 139 Pakistani nationals crossed over to the other side.
Among those entering India was Monika Rajani, a 35-year-old Pakistani passport holder with a NORI and Long Term Visa (LTV). She was accompanied by her five-year-old daughter, Saimara, who was born in India.&nbsp;
Rajani stated, "I have crossed over to India from Pakistan in a panic with the fear that ICP may be closed at any time. I belong to a Hindu family and married a Hindu man at Vijayawada around nine years back. My in-laws and husband from Vijayawada were waiting here to receive me."
She further said, "I crossed over to India at 3 pm, where it took around three hours for customs and Immigration clearance. It was difficult for children travelling with their mothers to wait for all the necessary clearances due to the scorching heat."&nbsp;
Rajani added that before proceeding to Vijayawada, her family intended to visit the Golden Temple.
The developments come in the wake of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, after which the Central government announced a series of measures, including suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, downgrading diplomatic ties with Islamabad, and ordering all Pakistani nationals on short-term visas to leave India or face legal action.
(With inputs from agencies)
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Abdul Waheed, a Pakistani national with an expired visa, died of cardiac arrest before his return from India

Pakistani National Dies Before Repatriation in Amritsar

Gujarat Congress Internal Dispute: The countdown to the 2027 Gujarat Assembly election has already begun. The 2029 Lok Sabha election is not far away either. The Congress high command is making claims of a change of power in Gujarat. Rahul Gandhi is talking about rebuilding the Gujarat Congress from the ground up. There is talk of removing the &lsquo;lame horses&rsquo; and putting the &lsquo;race horses&rsquo; on the field. But looking at the current state of the Gujarat Congress, one question cannot be avoided: before entering the race, will the Congress even be able to get its own team to stand in one line? Before declaring war against the BJP, the Congress is caught in a political battle within its own house. The question is bitter, but necessary: if a party cannot create unity within its own organisation, how does it expect to take on the BJP&rsquo;s formidable organisational machinery in Gujarat?
Leaders Changed, But Why Didn&rsquo;t the Problem? Keeping the 2027 Assembly and 2029 Lok Sabha elections in mind, the Congress has begun making changes to its Gujarat organisation. The high command wanted to remove the old and inactive structure and bring forward leaders with the ability to fight elections. But when a party repeatedly needs to change its state in-charge, the question becomes bigger than the capability of the individual holding the post. Mukul Wasnik was replaced by Randeep Singh Surjewala as Gujarat Congress in-charge. With the new in-charge came expectations of a new direction, a new strategy and greater discipline within the organisation. Yet, barely had Surjewala taken charge when a controversy erupted within Banaskantha Congress over the organisational structure. That is where the Congress&rsquo;s real trouble begins.
A Symptom of Congress&rsquo;s Organisational Illness Banaskantha is not an ordinary constituency. It is the only Lok Sabha seat in Gujarat that the Congress won in the 2024 general election. That makes it the biggest symbol of political hope for the Congress in Gujarat. So when differences emerge over organisational posts and responsibilities in precisely this constituency, when questions are raised over decisions taken by the state leadership, and when the district organisation itself becomes a subject of controversy, this cannot simply be dismissed as a &lsquo;local dispute&rsquo;. It is a symptom of the Congress&rsquo;s organisational illness. And if this illness continues until 2027, the BJP will be the direct beneficiary. The Congress needs to understand one basic reality: elections are not won through posters, press conferences and speeches by big leaders. Elections are won at the booth. The BJP&rsquo;s organisational machinery is active right down to the booth level. To challenge it, the Congress needs a strong network of workers, clearly defined responsibilities and a united district-level organisation. But here, the very formation of the district organisation is becoming a source of controversy. So where exactly will the Congress find the strength to challenge the BJP at the booth level?
&lsquo;Race Horses&rsquo; or Obstacles in Each Other&rsquo;s Way? Rahul Gandhi talks about identifying the &lsquo;lame horses&rsquo; in Gujarat and bringing the &lsquo;race horses&rsquo; to the forefront. It sounds attractive. But politics does not work that way. Simply choosing good horses does not guarantee victory in a race. The horses must run together rather than pull each other down. The direction of the race must be clear. And the coaching staff cannot be fighting among themselves. Only then can a team win. The Gujarat Congress&rsquo;s problem may not simply be about &lsquo;which leader should be promoted&rsquo;. The real problem is whether the leaders who are brought forward will actually work together. Mukul Wasnik is gone. Randeep Singh Surjewala has arrived. The state in-charge has changed. But if factionalism remains unchanged, internal power struggles remain unchanged, coordination between the district and state organisations remains weak, and organisational decisions themselves continue to trigger controversy, then what exactly is the Congress talking about when it talks of change? Changing faces will not change the Congress&rsquo;s fortunes. Its working style must change. Leadership accountability must be fixed. Factionalism must be brought under control. And above all, the party worker must be given confidence that the Congress is genuinely one team. Because if the Congress wants to fight the BJP, it must first stop its own leaders from fighting each other.
When Will the Political Infighting Within Gujarat Congress End? The biggest illusion for the Congress in the 2027 election would be to assume that public anger against the BJP will automatically translate into Congress votes. Politics does not work that simply. Reaching voters requires sustained ground-level work. It requires a booth-level organisation. It requires coordination among local leaders. It requires worker morale. And above all, it requires leadership running in one direction until election day. If even one of these five links is weak, the entire electoral calculation can collapse. For the Congress, this is no longer the time for experiments. It is the time for decisions. How many state in-charges will be changed? How many meetings will be held? How many times will the organisational structure be reshuffled? The question is no longer who the next Gujarat Congress in-charge will be. The real question is: when will the political infighting within the Gujarat Congress finally end? If every new in-charge is going to inherit the same old disputes, factionalism and internal resentment, then how can a new Congress emerge simply because a new face has arrived?
Will &lsquo;Race Horses&rsquo; Remain Just Another Political Slogan? If the Congress wants to win Gujarat, it must first win within its own organisation. It must win the trust of its workers. It must win the confidence of its district organisations. It must bring its leaders onto one platform. Otherwise, the Congress will lose its internal battle before its fight against the BJP has even begun. And then the talk of &lsquo;race horses&rsquo; will remain nothing more than another political slogan. The Congress has very little time left in the race for power in 2027. If it wants to take on the BJP, it must first stop its own leaders from fighting each other. Because power in Gujarat will not be won through statements from the Gandhi family. It will be won through organisational strength on the ground. The final question is simple: Is the Congress preparing to defeat the BJP, or is it still calculating whom it needs to defeat inside its own house? Want to win Gujarat? Then first, win the Gujarat Congress.

Congress has set its sights on defeating the BJP in Gujarat. But there’s a bigger battle brewing inside its own house.

Congress Wants to Defeat BJP in Gujarat, But Who Will Save Congress From Itself?

Gujarat High Court Launches Study Circle for Advocates: In a major initiative to strengthen the professional skills and legal knowledge of young advocates, the High Court of Gujarat, in collaboration with the Gujarat State Judicial Academy (GSJA), has announced the launch of a Study Circle (Symposium/Workshop) for Advocates Practicing before the High Court of Gujarat with up to 10 years of practice. The programme will be conducted at the Lecture Hall of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy, High Court Campus, Ahmedabad.
Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal Announces Study Circle The initiative was announced by Gujarat High Court Chief Justice and Patron-in-Chief of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy, Justice Sunita Agarwal, after the Flag Hoisting Ceremony held at the High Court Lawns on August 15. The announcement was made in the presence of Justice Bhargav D. Karia, Judge of the Gujarat High Court and President of GSJA, members of the Board of Governors of GSJA, other High Court judges, Senior Advocates and members of the Bar.
Focus on Legal Education and Professional Skills The new Study Circle is being introduced as a continuous legal learning and professional development programme for young members of the Bar. The initiative aims to enhance advocates&rsquo; understanding of legal principles, legal research, drafting and advocacy skills through direct interaction with Senior Advocates and subject experts. The programme is also expected to strengthen academic engagement between the Bench and the Bar and provide advocates with an opportunity to discuss important and evolving legal issues.
Justice Sunita Agarwal Highlights Importance of Continuous Learning Addressing the gathering, Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal highlighted the indispensable role of advocates in the administration of justice. She emphasized that continuous legal education has become increasingly important in an era of rapidly evolving jurisprudence. The Chief Justice also stressed that effective advocacy and strong legal research are essential components of a robust justice delivery system. She appreciated the efforts of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy in conceptualizing and developing the Study Circle programme.
Three Key Legal Modules in First Phase The first phase of the Study Circle will feature three major academic modules covering important areas of High Court practice. Module I will focus on the expanding contours of maintainability in writ jurisdiction under Article 226, an important area of constitutional and administrative law practice. Module II will cover the basic principles of Administrative Law and Second Appeals under Section 100 of the CPC, with particular emphasis on the Doctrine of Substantial Question of Law. Module III will focus on Criminal Law Jurisdiction, particularly the inherent powers of High Courts under Section 482 of the CrPC and Section 528 of the BNSS, including their scope, limitations and principles of judicial discipline.
Study Circle to Be Held Fortnightly The Study Circle is proposed to be conducted on a fortnightly basis, providing advocates with regular opportunities for legal learning and professional interaction. Future sessions will cover a wide range of subjects, including Constitutional Law, Writ Jurisdiction, Arbitration and Conciliation Law, Commercial Law, Public Interest Litigation, Service Law, Taxation Law, Admiralty Jurisdiction, Legal Ethics and Drafting Skills. The programme will also address contemporary legal issues that are particularly relevant to advocates practicing before the Gujarat High Court.
Registration to Begin Soon Registration for the Study Circle (Symposium/Workshop Series) for Advocates Practicing in the High Court of Gujarat &ndash; Series of Academic Modules 2026 will begin shortly through the official website of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy. The programme is specifically intended for advocates practicing before the Gujarat High Court who have up to 10 years of professional practice.
Registration Fee The registration fee for the Study Circle has been fixed at ₹100 per programme, which will be paid by each participating advocate. The workshops will be conducted at the Lecture Hall of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy, High Court Campus, Ahmedabad. Advocates attending the workshops will also receive Certificates of Participation.
Major Step Towards Strengthening Justice Delivery The Gujarat High Court and Gujarat State Judicial Academy's new Study Circle is being viewed as a significant step towards professional excellence and development of the legal fraternity. By bringing young advocates, Senior Advocates and legal experts together for regular academic discussions, the initiative aims to improve legal knowledge, research and advocacy skills while strengthening the Bench-Bar relationship. The broader objective is to contribute towards a more effective and efficient justice delivery system in Gujarat.

Study Circle Launched for Advocates With Up to 10 Years of Practice

Gujarat High Court Big Move

A chilling video of the accused in the Indore MBA student murder case has sparked outrage after he was seen smiling and appearing unconcerned when questioned about the crime.
The accused, Piyush Dhanotia, was arrested for allegedly raping and murdering his 25-year-old classmate in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. Police said he strangled the woman on February 10 inside his rented accommodation and later locked the room before fleeing. Her partially decomposed body was discovered days later after residents complained of a foul smell.
However, what has intensified public anger is the accused&rsquo;s demeanour. In a video that surfaced online, Dhanotia is seen smiling when reporters ask him why he committed the crime. When pressed for answers, he responded dismissively, saying that what had happened had already happened and that he would speak at the right time. Throughout the interaction, he showed no visible sign of regret.
Police officials said he admitted during interrogation that he forced the woman into sexual acts and killed her when she resisted, though he has reportedly changed his version multiple times. Investigators are also examining allegations that he circulated objectionable videos of the victim in their college WhatsApp group.
The victim&rsquo;s father has accused the accused of blackmailing his daughter with obscene images and attempting to extort money.
As the investigation continues, the accused&rsquo;s apparent lack of remorse captured on camera has become a focal point of the case, drawing sharp reactions both online and offline.
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Video shows MBA student murder accused laughing amid probe

Indore Murder Accused Smiles on Camera

Galgotias University has landed in controversy after showcasing a robotic dog at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 that was widely believed to be developed by its students. The robot, however, was later identified as a commercially available product made by Chinese robotics firm Unitree Robotics.
The backlash began after a video from the summit went viral, in which a university professor introduced the robot dog, named &ldquo;Orion,&rdquo; and referred to it as being developed at the institution&rsquo;s Centre of Excellence. Social media users were quick to point out that the machine closely resembled Unitree&rsquo;s quadruped robots, which are already available globally for research and industrial use.
Unitree is known for manufacturing advanced four-legged robots designed for tasks such as inspection, obstacle navigation and research applications. Its products are often compared to models developed by global robotics players.
Following the uproar, the Greater Noida-based university issued a clarification stating that it never claimed to have built the robot. It maintained that the robodog was purchased as part of its AI investment initiatives and is being used as a research and learning tool for students. Another faculty member present at the summit reiterated that the display had been misinterpreted and that there was no attempt to conceal the original manufacturer&rsquo;s branding.
Despite the clarification, sources familiar with the developments said the university was asked to vacate its pavilion at the summit amid mounting criticism. The institution, however, denied receiving any formal directive from the organisers or the ministry.
Notably, the robotic dog was removed from display shortly after the controversy escalated online.

Robodog row sparks backlash at India AI Impact Summit 2026

Galgotias Asked to Exit AI Summit

Actor Sidharth Malhotra is mourning the loss of his father, Sunil Malhotra, who passed away recently. The actor shared the news with an emotional message on social media. His wife, Kiara Advani, has now also paid a heartfelt tribute to her father-in-law.
On Wednesday, Kiara took to Instagram to share pictures from her wedding reception, where she and Sidharth were seen smiling alongside his parents. In a deeply personal note, she remembered Sunil Malhotra as a warm, generous, and steady presence in the family. She reflected on how he welcomed her with open arms and unconditional love, describing his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to his family.
Kiara wrote that his stories, laughter, and quiet strength would remain with her forever. She added that his legacy of integrity and gentleness lives on through his children and grandchildren. Concluding her message, she expressed that he would always be loved and remembered.
The couple is currently in Delhi with their family during this difficult period. Members of the film industry extended their condolences online. Jacqueline Fernandez offered prayers, while Karan Johar and Manish Malhotra shared messages of support.
On the professional front, Sidharth will next appear in Vvan: Force of The Forest, directed by Arunabh Kumar and Deepak Mishra and produced by Balaji Motion Pictures. The film also stars Tamannaah Bhatia and is slated for release later this year.
Kiara, meanwhile, awaits the release of Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups, directed by Geetu Mohandas. The film features Yash, Nayanthara, Tara Sutaria, Huma Qureshi, and Rukmini Vasanth in key roles. The film is expected to release on March 19, alongside Dhurandhar 2, directed by Aditya Dhar.

Actor pens heartfelt note after Sunil Malhotra’s passing

Kiara Mourns Sidharth’s Father

Days after 23-year-old Sahil Dhaneshra lost his life in a fatal SUV crash in Delhi&rsquo;s Dwarka, the father of the 17-year-old accused has expressed regret over the incident, stating that his family is &ldquo;deeply grief-stricken.&rdquo; He also confirmed that the Scorpio SUV involved in the accident is part of his commercial transport business.
The crash occurred around 11:50 am on February 3 near Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute of Management in Sector 11, Dwarka. According to police, the SUV rammed into a Yamaha R15 motorcycle, killing Sahil on the spot. The vehicle then struck a parked Swift Dzire, injuring cab driver Ajit Singh.
Post-mortem findings revealed that Sahil sustained a fractured skull, multiple rib fractures, and an elbow injury due to the high-impact collision.
The minor driver was detained at the scene and booked under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for rash driving, negligence causing death, and endangering life. He was later presented before the Juvenile Justice Board and sent to an observation home. On February 10, he was granted interim bail to appear for his Class 10 board examinations.
Meanwhile, the Delhi Police registered a separate case against the boy&rsquo;s father under Section 199A of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, which holds guardians or vehicle owners accountable when a minor commits a traffic offence.
Speaking to the media after being questioned, the father said he was not in the city at the time of the accident and was unaware that his son had taken the vehicle. He stated that the family has cooperated with investigators and provided all necessary documents.
Sahil&rsquo;s mother alleged that her son was killed by a &ldquo;reckless teen&rdquo; just minutes away from his workplace. The 23-year-old, who worked part-time at an insurance firm, had plans to pursue higher studies in the United Kingdom later this year.

Minor held in SUV crash; father booked under MV Act provisions

Dwarka Crash: Accused’s Father Apologises

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday set aside a March 2025 judgment of the Allahabad High Court that had ruled that grabbing a minor girl&rsquo;s breasts and dragging her under a culvert did not amount to an attempt to rape. The apex court termed the ruling a &ldquo;patently erroneous&rdquo; application of criminal law principles.
A Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and N.V. Anjaria, held that the high court had incorrectly reduced the charges from attempt to rape under Section 376 read with Section 511 of the IPC and Section 18 of the POCSO Act to lesser offences. The court restored the original summons issued by the Special POCSO Court in Kasganj, clarifying that its observations were prima facie and would not influence the trial&rsquo;s outcome.
Rejecting the high court&rsquo;s reasoning that the accused had merely &ldquo;prepared&rdquo; to commit rape, the Supreme Court reiterated the settled distinction between preparation and attempt, noting that an attempt begins when intent moves into execution. Based on the allegations, including forcibly taking the minor on a motorcycle, dragging her near a culvert, and fleeing only after she screamed, the Bench held that a prima facie case of attempt to rape was clearly made out.
The proceedings were initiated suo motu after senior advocate Shobha Gupta raised concerns over the high court&rsquo;s reasoning. The Supreme Court had earlier stayed the controversial observations and later the entire judgment.
Beyond correcting the legal error, the court addressed a broader concern about insensitivity in judicial handling of sexual offence cases. It requested the National Judicial Academy in Bhopal to constitute a five-member expert committee to frame guidelines aimed at fostering compassion and sensitivity in courts, especially in cases involving minors and vulnerable victims.
The committee, to be chaired by former Supreme Court judge Justice Aniruddha Bose, has been directed to submit a report within three months. The guidelines are to be drafted in simple, accessible language and tailored to Indian realities to ensure they are understandable to victims and laypersons alike.

Top court restores rape attempt charge, seeks sensitivity guidelines

SC Sets Aside HC Order in POCSO Case

India&rsquo;s merchandise imports from Russia plunged by over 40% in January 2026, falling to about $2.86 billion from $4.81 billion a year earlier, official trade figures show, largely reflecting a steep reduction in crude oil purchases.
Crude oil typically accounts for roughly 80% of India&rsquo;s imports from Russia, and estimates suggest purchases of Russian crude last month were significantly lower than in previous years. Other goods imported from Russia include coal, fertilisers, iron, pulses, and precious stones, but these have not offset the slump in oil imports. The downturn in oil imports intensified after mid-2025, following punitive tariffs levied by the United States on Indian goods connected to purchases of Russian oil and ongoing diplomatic pressure. India&rsquo;s refiners, including some major private and state firms, have substantially reduced or halted buying Russian crude as they explore alternative sources.
In early February 2026, Washington eased the additional tariff on Indian products after New Delhi signalled a commitment to &ldquo;stop directly or indirectly importing&rdquo; Russian oil and to increase purchases of energy products from the United States, as well as broadening ties in global energy markets.
Analysts expect the shift in crude sourcing to continue, with Indian refiners eyeing other suppliers, including Middle Eastern and Venezuelan grades, as part of broader diversification strategies.

January sees 40% fall in Russia merchandise imports amid crude cutbacks

India’s Russia Imports Drop Sharply

A 27-year-old man has been arrested in Andhra Pradesh&rsquo;s Annamayya district for allegedly abducting and murdering a seven-year-old girl from his neighbourhood in Madanapalle town.
The child had been playing outside her home on Sunday evening when she went missing, sparking panic among her family and local residents. A missing complaint was filed the following morning, prompting an intensive search operation led by district police.
Investigators reviewed CCTV footage from across the town, which reportedly showed the suspect, a neighbour living opposite the victim&rsquo;s house, taking the child into his residence. Acting on this lead, police searched the house on Tuesday morning.
During the inspection, officers discovered the girl&rsquo;s body concealed inside a water storage drum within the premises. The accused was present at the house at the time and was immediately taken into custody.
Preliminary findings suggest the child was killed inside the residence on Sunday night, and her body was hidden thereafter. Authorities are probing whether sexual assault occurred before the murder, with confirmation pending post-mortem and forensic examination results.
Following the discovery, tensions escalated in the area. Residents and family members staged a protest on the Madanapalle highway, briefly preventing police from shifting the body to the government hospital for autopsy and demanding strict punishment for the accused.
Police have stated that all possible angles, including prior allegations of inappropriate behaviour by the suspect, are being examined as the investigation continues.

Child’s body found in drum; protest erupts in Madanapalle town

7-Year-Old Killed, Neighbour Arrested

The United States and Iran held their second round of indirect negotiations in Geneva, Switzerland, as diplomatic efforts continue amid heightened regional tensions. While both sides indicated forward movement in discussions, parallel military developments have added complexity to the fragile engagement.
Reports suggest the US has significantly reinforced its military presence in the Middle East. Over 50 advanced fighter aircraft, including F-35, F-22 and F-16 jets, were reportedly repositioned to the region within a 24-hour window. The deployment follows Washington&rsquo;s decision to send a second aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, to Middle Eastern waters, underscoring its strategic posture.
Despite the show of force, the Geneva discussions were described as substantive and focused. Iranian officials signalled that preliminary understandings were reached on broad guiding principles that could shape a future agreement. However, they cautioned that drafting and finalising any deal would take time.
On the American side, officials maintained that the talks unfolded largely as anticipated. Washington&rsquo;s core objective remains preventing Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons, a position repeatedly emphasised by senior US leadership.
Meanwhile, regional tensions persisted. Iran temporarily restricted navigation in parts of the Strait of Hormuz during a naval drill, highlighting the waterway&rsquo;s vulnerability. Additionally, US leaders suggested that differences remain over key conditions laid out by President Donald Trump.
As diplomacy continues, both nations appear to be balancing dialogue with deterrence, leaving the broader geopolitical landscape uncertain.

Second Geneva round shows progress as military moves raise stakes

Amritsar News