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Balloon blast at Jaitley’s roadshow, 12 hurt
Navjot Sidhu absent
No poll code violation: Ropar DC
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Complainants against Joshi allege bid on life
SAD candidate Tinu is 'communal': Hans
Cong decides to field Bajwa from Gurdaspur seat
AAP workers gear up for Kejri’s Patiala visit
Ex-MP Tur joins AAP
Badal strikes emotional chord to woo people
In Moga, new voters ‘harassed’
Youth body threatens to corner Akali leaders
State targets Rs
570 crore increase in excise revenue
Status symbol: DCs, SSPs now allowed blue beacons
6-day Hola Mohalla concludes
Takht Jathedar advocates 4 kids per Sikh couple
Rain flattens wheat crop in Ludhiana, Fatehgarh Sahib
Probe ordered into child labour at Sangha Farms
Bains alleges bias, EC orders probe
Liquor prices on downward spiral ahead of LS elections
Need more proof, HC to Ashotush's ex-driver
Abohar murder case: High Court summons DGP, CBI officer
Dy Mayor booked for honour killing
BKI men arrested, terror plot ‘foiled’ in Punjab
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Balloon blast at Jaitley’s roadshow, 12 hurt
Amritsar, March 18 The blast occurred at Novelty Chowk. A bunch of gas balloons were brought near Jaitley's cavalcade. These were apparently to be released into the air by Jaitley. But sparks of firecrackers being burst by his supporters hit the balloons, leading to the blast. The blast near Jaitley's bedecked open truck shook up the leaders. Jaitley and Punjab BJP chief Kamal Sharma sustained minor burn injuries on their hands. State minister Joshi suffered burns on his forehead and the left hand.The roadshow was resumed after a brief disruption. Earlier, Jaitley landed at the airport at 10.45 am. He was accorded a rousing reception by BJP and SAD workers. He was received by Cabinet Minister Bikram Singh Majithia, Gulzar Singh Ranike, Anil Joshi and MLAs. He paid obeisance at the Golden Temple and the Durgiana Mandir. He partook of 'langar' at the Golden Temple. Party workers showered rose petals on his cavalcade. The roadshow led to traffic snarls in the city. Talking to the media in Punjabi, Jaitley said if the NDA was voted to power and he got a chance to serve the people of Amritsar, "we will restore the glory of the holy city by boosting trade and industry and building world-class infrastructure for tourism." He said he did not consider himself an “outsider” as his maternal grandparents belonged to the city. He said a victory from Amritsar would only strengthen his ties with the city. “I consider myself fortunate to have been chosen by the party to contest from Amritsar.” On BJP candidate from Chandigarh Kirron Kher facing opposition within the party, he said she was the pride of Chandigarh. He said the winds of change blowing in the country would result in a Narendra Modi-led NDA Government at the Centre. He termed the third front as a “failed idea”. He claimed the Congress would see its worst-ever performance this time. On the Wikileaks row, he said the BJP did not need a certificate from Wikileaks. Congress alleges code violation The Congress has lodged a complaint with the Election Commission, accusing the ruling alliance of violating the poll code. District Rural Congress Chief Gurjeet Singh Aujla and Youth Congress leader Vikas Soni alleged hoardings and banners welcoming Jaitley had been put up on public property in violation of norms. They said the city witnessed traffic snarls. About BJP’s Amritsar candidate Arun Jaitley *
Born on December 28, 1952, he studied at St Xavier’s School, New Delhi *
He graduated from Shri Ram College of Commerce in 1973 * He acquired a law degree from Delhi University in 1977 * He has been practicing as a SC lawyer since 1977 *
He was an ABVP leader while in college * He has been BJP national executive member since 1991 *
He was Minister for Commerce and Industry, Law and Justice during the NDA Government (1998-2004) *
He is the Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha * His mother belongs to Amritsar; his sister and wife were born here
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Navjot Sidhu absent
Amritsar, March 18 However, his wife, Dr Navjot Kaur Sidhu, Chief Parliamentary Secretary, who is Amritsar East MLA, presented him a ‘siropa’ near the Circuit House. She accompanied him for the rest of the roadshow. Talking to The Tribune on the phone, Sidhu said he had prior commitments and, hence, could not accompany Jaitley. “My wife is discharging her responsibility. As far as I am concerned, I am now only a BJP worker and will perform any task assigned to me by my party.” Sounding upset, Sidhu said he had told the party that he would not contest from any other constituency and that he was committed to the people of Amritsar. Talking about Sidhu during a press conference in the evening, Jaitley said: “Sidhu is a great asset to the BJP and will always remain so.” On his replacing Sidhu as the party candidate from Amritsar, he said it was Sidhu who had convinced him to contest the seat. “We both were convincing each other to fight from Amritsar. Eventually, Sidhu managed to convince me,” he said. He said he shared special ties with Sidhu which were more than political. He said Sidhu would be actively campaigning for the BJP not only in Punjab but also other parts of the country. “He is busy with the T20 cricket tournament but will soon join the party’s poll campaign.” On the sidelines... *
Though Arun Jaitley is the BJP candidate from Amritsar, it was SAD leaders led by Bikram Singh Majithia who dominated the show *
Jaitley was felicitated with 'siropas' and swords at various points by SAD and the BJP workers all through his route from the airport to the Golden Temple *
Serpentine queues of vehicles were witnessed in the city as the roadshow led to traffic jams *
As the roadshow reached near the Golden Temple, Jaitley was welcomed with a spectacular show of 'gatka' and fireworks *
Hoardings of Akali and BJP leaders welcoming Jaitley in the city could be seen on public property *
Flags and buntings were put up on the boundary wall of the historic Jallianwalla Bagh *
The flower bedecked open truck used for the roadshow had chairs for the leaders
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No poll code violation: Ropar DC
Ropar, March 18 The DC said videography had been done at all the venues where SAD, SAD (A) and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders addressed people. There was nothing objectionable in the speeches made by these politicians, he said. “However, the final decision on it will be taken by the Election Commission of India (ECI) after viewing the recordings,” he said. Sources claimed videography had also been done inside the helicopter which ferried Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal on the occasion to check if it had any money or publicity material. The ECI had banned political rallies in Anandpur Sahib during Hola Mohalla stating that political parties and Independents should desist from using religious places for elections. Political conferences should not be held either close to religious institutions or on their grounds, it had stated. They should not be held on festivals such as Holi and Hola Mohalla, stated the ECI rder. The Congress, however, contested the report of the Deputy Commissioner. Senior Congress leader KP Rana said the temper and words of Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal while addressing the gathering at the SGPC land near Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib were in utter disregard to the ECI's directions and an attempt to get political mileage from the situation. He used the occasion for mudslinging on the ECI and the Congress, he alleged. During a press conference here, Badal discussed politics and declared support to the INLD, he alleged. Contesting the claims of the Chief Minister that the land of the SGPC was hired by the SAD for the conference against a particular fee, Rana said the SGPC gave advertisements regarding the sites available for rent during Hola Mohalla. The site of the SAD's conference, however, was not mentioned in those advertisements, alleged Rana. AAP state convener of campaign committee Sumail Singh Sidhu said the presence of SAD candidate from Anandpur Sahib constituency Prem Singh Chandumajra with other political leaders on the SGPC land was a glaring example of violation of the code of conduct by the SAD.
Congress, AAP contest the DC's report *
Congress leader KP Rana said the temper and words of CM Parkash Singh Badal while addressing the gathering at the SGPC land near Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib were in utter disregard of the ECI's directions and an attempt to gain political mileage from the situation *
AAP state convener of campaign committee Sumail Singh Sidhu said the presence of SAD candidate from Anandpur Sahib constituency Prem Singh Chandumajra with other political leaders, that too on the SGPC land, was a glaring example of violation of the code of conduct by the SAD 6 devotees held for manhandling cop * Devotees manhandled Nurpur Bedi Station House Officer (SHO) Daljit Singh when he was trying to prevent them from entering a prohibited area. Six people were arrested by the police in this regard. Anandpur Sahib SHO Gurwinder Singh Sidhu said the accused tried to enter the prohibited area on their tractor-trailers near Agampur, when Daljit tried to stop them. The accused, however, attacked and injured him. His uniform was also torn by the assailants, he alleged. The accused were booked under Sections 353, 323, 186, 332, 148 and 149 of the IPC. A local court sent them to a 14-day judicial remand.
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Complainants against Joshi allege bid on life
Amritsar, March 18 Alleging that Joshi was behind the attack, they have given a 24-hour ultimatum to the police to initiate action in the matter failing which they would protest outside Joshi's residence. But Joshi maintained he had nothing to do with the insident. "The allegations are baseless," he said. Mahajan alleged: "The police have recovered the shells of six bullets fired from a country-made pistol. There are bullet marks on our office wall. It is nothing but pressure that is preventing the police from even entertaining our complaint." He said a "lame" FIR had been registered on the statement of meat seller Harwinder Singh. Police Commissioner Jatinder Singh Aulakh said Harwinder was the only eyewitness to the incident. He ran his business a few metres from the the hotel gate. "We are examining all aspects of the complaint submitted by Gorsi and Mahajan," he said. The meat vendor has reportedly confessed to have heard gunshots and to have seen two unidentified motorcycle-borne persons. A case under Sections 336/34 has been registered.
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SAD candidate Tinu is 'communal': Hans
Jalandhar, March 18 Earlier in the day, representatives of the Balmiki community met Hans at his residence and apprised him of the problems being faced by them. They alleged that the SAD-BJP Government had been "indifferent" to their problems. Speaking to The Tribune, Hans said: “During the 2009 elections, Tinu indulged in a false propaganda against me. He got pamphlets distributed against me. Instead of taking action against him, Tinu was given the Akali ticket for the 2012 assembly elections and then made Chief Parliamentary Secretary.” Hans said it was surprising that the SAD had not considered him for the party ticket this time. “I am a self-made man and a Padma Shri recipient. I would not have begged for the ticket,” he said. He blamed Tinu's supporters for spreading the rumour that he had embraced Islam. Hans said that despite the "humiliating" treatment by his party, he had campaigned for the Moga byelection. He said he had high regards for the Badals but they were being misled by the "likes of Tinu." Tinu, who is in the US, could not be contacted for comment. Balmikis' plea to Hans *
Balmiki and Majhbi Sikhs have reportedly urged Hans Raj Hans to contest from Jalandhar as an Independent. But Hans said: "As of now, the Balmiki and Majhbi Sikh leaders have requested me to come out of political oblivion", he said. —TNS
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Cong decides to field Bajwa from Gurdaspur seat
New Delhi, March 18 Top sources said Bajwa would contest again from his constituency to send a clear message across the state that top leaders would remain in the fray. “This will send a positive message across Punjab where we hope to do well,” the sources said, adding that the Congress high command had taken a principled decision that all state Congress presidents would have to contest the elections. There were reports that Bajwa was not interested in re-contesting his seat. In the first list announced by the Congress, Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Arun Yadav was named as candidate from Khandwa (from where he is the sitting Lok Sabha member) and Nirmal Khatri, president of the UP State Congress, from Faizabad. The candidature of Ashok Tanwar, Haryana Congress president, has been approved by the Congress. So far, the Congress has declared only four candidates for Punjab - Ravneet Bittu (Anandpur Sahib), Vijay Inder Singla (Sangrur), Preneet Kaur (Patiala) and Harminder Gill (Khadoor Sahib). Tewari may be spared
Information Minister and sitting Congress MP from Ludhiana Manish Tewari is unlikely to re-contest his seat owing to ill-health. Sources close to Tewari, who was discharged from a private hospital in Delhi on Monday, said doctors attending on him had said he was not in a state to put in long hours for campaigning. “The minister has been advised rest and doctors have said he can campaign at his own risk. He is suffering from a heart problem,” the sources added.
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AAP workers gear up for Kejri’s Patiala visit
Patiala, March 18 Dr Dharamvir Gandhi, the AAP’s official candidate from Patiala, said Kejriwal’s visit would boost the morale of the party workers ahead of the poll. He said hundreds of party workers were campaigning day and night across the constituency. Gandhi said Kejriwal was expected to address three rallies at Patiala city, Rajpura and Samana in the Patiala constituency. “People are sick of both the major parties, but were afraid of speaking out against them publicly. We are getting a lot of support, especially from the youth, who will play a big factor in this poll,” added Dr Gandhi. Gul to visit Khatkar Kalan today Chandigarh: Gurkirat Kaur Panag alias Gul Panag, the Aam Aadmi Party’s candidate from Chandigarh, will go to Khatkar Kalan tomorrow to pay tributes to Shaheed Bhagat Singh. “Gul Panag is going there to pay homage to the martyr as the AAP’s leadership strongly believes in his ideals,” said a party leader. TNS
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Ex-MP Tur joins AAP
Tarn Taran, March 18 Sources said Tur was likely to get Aam Aadmi Party ticket from Khadur Sahib. Sucha Singh Chhotepur, Aam Aadmi Party candidate from Gurdaspur, is a close relative of Tur. Boota Singh, district convener, AAP, said Tur had joined the party along with his supporters. Tarlochan Singh Tur, son of late Jathedar Mohan Singh Tur, was elected to the Lok Sabha from Tarn Taran in 1985, 1998 and 1999. The former SAD MP said he had not joined AAP for contesting elections, but would abide by the party decision.
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AAP fields Shergill from Anandpur Sahib
Mohali, March 18 Shergill (34), who lives in Sector 16, Chandigarh, is the youngest candidate of the party so far. Shergill, who has studied at Lawrence School, Sanawar and Panjab University, was born and brought up in Chandigarh and Mohali. He said he was aware of the problems of the residents of his constituency. “Apart from focusing on local problems, including the poor condition of government hospitals, schools, lack of infrastructure, I will also concentrate on major issues such as the politician-land mafia nexus, corruption, the drug menace and price rise and unemployment,” said Shergill. Shergill has been fighting the case of Punjab and Haryana farmers, settled in Gujarat, whom Narendra Modi’s government is trying to evict from the state. Shergill had come to limelight when he had taken up the issue of the transport owned by Badals in the state. Shergill has got a BA (Hons) in Political Science, LLB (Hons), PGD in Professional and Legal Skills and Bar-at-Law. He has studied at Lawrence School, Sanawar, Panjab University, University of London, University of Buckingham, City University London, Inns of Court School of Law and Inner Temple in the UK. “I joined AAP as I was impressed with its ideology. AAP intends to eradicate corruption from our society and empower the common man through decentralisation of power,” he said. Shergill will soon begin canvasssing in Mohali, Kharar, Ropar, Anandpur Sahib, Chamkaur Sahib, Nawanshahr, Banga, Balachaur and
Garhshankar. His background *
He has been fighting the case of Punjab and Haryana farmers, settled in Gujarat, whom Modi’s government is trying to evict from the state *
He had come to limelight when he took up the issue of the transport owned by Badals in the state
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Badal strikes emotional chord to woo people
Ferozepur, March 18 “I have studied here till Class 10,” Badal said in a nostalgic vein, adding that he was familiar with every nook and corner of the town since his school days when he used to roam around with friends here. Batting for SAD candidate from Ferozepur, Sher Singh Ghubaya, Badal exhorted the audience to ensure thumping victory for him. Accusing the Congress of indifferent attitude towards the state, Badal minced no words in criticising the UPA Government. “Inflation and corruption became the norm during the 10 years of UPA’s misgovernance, he alleged. The Chief Minister said only Narendra-Modi-led NDA alliance could revive the lost glory of the nation. Ghubaya, legislator Joginder Singh, former legislator Ravinder Singh Babbal, BJP district president Jugraj Singh Katora, besides other senior leaders of the ruling alliance were present. Ruling out dispute in the party over the re-nomination of Ghubaya, Badal said the sitting MP enjoyed good rapport with all SAD-BJP leaders, hence there was no question of any dissent. He lauded Ghubaya for the development of the border region. Ghubaya urged people to give him a chance to serve them again. Seemingly in reconciliatory mood, Ghubaya tried to explain his absence from certain areas of the constituency during his last tenure and promising to make up for it this time.
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In Moga, new voters ‘harassed’
Moga, March 18 The officer had called people to verify their details. In view of the rush, people were harassed. The applicants, including women, were forced to sit on floor of the Mini-Secretariat for hours waiting for their turn. The Election Commission has asked the district authorities to set up special camps for making votes and corrections, if any, in the existing voters’ list. Those who did not figure in the voters’ list filed their applications through the booth-level officers (BLO), but the SDM called them for physical verification. Kuldip Kaur (55) and Baldev Kaur (45) alleged that they had come in the morning and were still waiting for their turn till late afternoon. “I have never faced such harassment in the name of making votes,” said another woman Mariam (55). The BLOs, Charanjit Singh and Gurpiar Singh, who came along with the people said that they were first asked by the SDM office to come at 10 am, then at noon and later 2 pm but this time was again re-scheduled to 4 pm, which forced the people sit on the floor in the secretariat lobby. The SDM, Mahinder Pal, said he had called people for verification as per rules laid down by the EC
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Youth body threatens to corner Akali leaders
Muktsar, March 18 Naujawan Bharat Sabha zonal secretary Manga Azad alleged that the police at the behest of Akali leaders, including Rozy, had registered a false case against four youths, who were taking out a peaceful candlelight march in the village on January 27. They demanded shifting of a liquor vend. “The workers at the liquor vend had attacked our activists during the march, but the Bariwala police slapped a false case against sabha members on February 6. We protested outside the Deputy Commissioner’s office, but nobody was bothered to listen to us,” Azad said. “Peeved at insensitive approach of the district administration, we have decided to corner the Akali leaders and ban their entry in the village,” he added.
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State targets Rs
570 crore increase in excise revenue
Chandigarh, March 18 The state government has got permission from the Election Commission to hold the draw of lots for 435 licensing units across Punjab. Officials in the state Excise Department told The Tribune that they were all set to hold the draw of lots on March 22. Once the successful licensing units are identified, the government hopes to rake in Rs 4,750 crore as excise collections in the coming fiscal as against a target of Rs 3,400 crore in 2012-13 and Rs 4,180 crore this year. DP Reddy, Financial Commissioner, Excise and Taxation, said this year, the department has increased the number of licensing units from 230 to 435. “Despite doubling the units, we have got a good response from applicants wanting to get liquor licences. The number of applicants is much more than the units. We have already collected Rs 270 crore as deposit from applicants,” he said, adding that as a result they would be able to dispose off all licences in one go. The licensing units have been increased to ensure that excise collections get at least a 20 per cent increase in revenues. Since the number of licensing units (or groups as they are called) was less last year, revenue through excise collections remained much below the targeted increase of 17.88 per cent. Figures show that the excise collections till December 2013 were Rs 2,798.45 crore as against Rs 2,510.70 crore in December 2012. This shows that the excise collections have increased by just 11.46 per cent. ‘Liquor vends won’t be allowed on highways’ Chandigarh: Liquor vends will not dot the state and national highways in Haryana and Punjab. For, the states of Punjab and Haryana have made it clear in their excise policies that vends will not be set up along the state and national highways. The Punjab and Haryana High Court on a previous date of hearing had directed the states to explicitly mention that "liquor shops would not be set up along the national and state highways" in their next excise policies. The states were also directed to present their excise policies before the High Court by today. The developments took place during the resumed hearing of a petition filed in public interest by Chandigarh-based NGO Arrive Safe Society through its president Harman Singh Sidhu. — TNS
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Status symbol: DCs, SSPs now allowed blue beacons
Chandigarh, March 18 Forced by the Supreme Court, that asked all the state governments to restrict the use of red lights, the state government had asked all these district officers, besides chief parliamentary secretaries, advisors to governments and those given cabinet status, other IAS and IPS officers, to remove the red lights from their vehicles. This had not gone down too well with the government functionaries. Sources said a review meeting to discuss the use of these red lights was held on March 14, wherein it was decided that at least the deputy commissioners and senior superintendents of police be allowed to use blue beacons on their official vehicles. “Since officials occupying these two posts are involved with ensuring law and order, we have decided that they be allowed the use of blue lights. The Supreme Court has restricted only the use of red beacons,” said a senior officer. Sources said the decision to allow senior functionaries other than the DCs and the SSPs to use a different colour beacon would be taken in a meeting later this week. People holding 20 important official positions, including Punjab Governor, Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, Cabinet Ministers, former Governors, former Chief Ministers, Chief Justice and judges of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, Vidhan Sabha Speaker, Leader of Opposition and state Planning Board vice chairman, were allowed to use a red beacon with flashers.
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6-day Hola Mohalla concludes
Anandpur Sahib, March 18 The most sought-after event of the festival was the procession of Nihang groups, including the Budha Dal, Harian Velan, Damdami Taksal and the Tarna Dal. The Shiromani Gurduwara Parbandhak Committee’s procession was led by Jathedar Sri Akal Takhat Sahib Giani Gurbachan Singh and Jathedar of Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib Giani Mall Singh. After the bhog ceremony of Sri Akhand Path, Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Gurbachan Singh delivered a message to the masses to end social evils such as drug addiction and female foeticide. During the procession, while exhibiting their skills, the Nihangs also sprayed colours on people. After halting at Kila Anandgarh Sahib at Agampur, the procession resumed before concluding at the Charanganga stadium. Following this, there was a big show of skills by the Nihangs at the stadium. Six devotees held for manhandling cop Devotees manhandled Nurpur Bedi Station House Officer (SHO) Daljit Singh, when he was trying to prevent them from entering a prohibited area. Six people were arrested by the police in this regard. Anandpur Sahib SHO Gurwinder Singh Sidhu said the accused tried to enter the prohibited area on their tractor-trailers near Agampur, when Daljit tried to stop them. The accused, however, attacked and injured him. His uniform was also torn by the assailants, he alleged. The accused were booked under Section 353, 323, 186, 332, 148 and 149 of the IPC. A local court sent them in a 14-day judicial remand.
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Takht Jathedar advocates 4 kids per Sikh couple
Anandpur Sahib, March 18 A display of horse-riding skills and martial arts by nihangs remained some of the highlights. The most sought-after event was a procession of nihang groups, including the Budha Dal, Harian Velan, Damdami Taksal and the Tarna Dal. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee’s (SGPC) procession was led by Sri Akal Takht Sahib Jathedar Giani Gurbachan Singh and Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib Jathedar Giani Mall Singh. After the bhog ceremony of Sri Akhand Path, Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Gurbachan Singh asked the devotees to fight social evils such as drug addiction and female foeticide. While exhibiting their skills, the Nihangs sprayed colours on the devotees. The procession concluded at the Charanganga Stadium. The Akal Takht Jathedar, in his message to the community, gave a call to Sikh couples to have four children. This has started a debate within the community with some Sikh scholars opposing the move. Giani Gurbachan Singh expressed concern over the “decline” in the Sikh population. The Sikh population has reduced substantially since the times of Sikh Gurus, he said. “The government in the past propagated family planning with the slogan of ‘Hum do, hamare do’ and since then, the number of Sikhs has been on the decline,” he said. “Sikh couples should now have four children so that the population of the Sikhs increases and in turn will help in the propagation of our religion and the development of the country,” the Jathedar said. Renowned philosopher Iqbal Singh Lalpura said the Sikhs should have a choice in the number of children they wanted to whereas the Gurmat Sidhat Pracharak Sant Samaj said the issue should be debated on seriously. Lalpura said, “The Jathedar must have had some thought behind his message. However, the sixteenth century conditions cannot be equated with the modern era,” he said.
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Rain flattens wheat crop in Ludhiana, Fatehgarh Sahib
Ludhiana, March 18 “The crop has been flattened at several places in the district. Farmers are bound to suffer losses as there are minimal chances of its revival,” said a wheat breeder at PAU. The farmers are worried as they would have to grapple with the delay in harvesting and procurement. Satnam Singh, a farmer from Lalton village, demanded a special girdawari to access the loss. “Even though the model code of conduct is in force, the government can take up the matter with the Centre,” he said. Fatehgarh Sahib: Standing wheat crop at several places was flattened by rain last night. Experts said waterlogging in the fields would affect yield this year. Besides, harvesting will be delayed and the quality of grain would be affected. Farmers say earlier they had to spend Rs 600 per acre for spraying pesticides to tackle yellow rust and now the rain would hit the yield. They urged the government to hold a special girdawari to work out compensation.
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Probe ordered into child labour at Sangha Farms
Jalandhar, March 18 Earlier on Monday, the Labour Commissioner had asked the district Labour Department to investigate the matter and submit the report to him the next day. Following this, the team visited the venue and prepared a report that stated that children at ‘Sangha Farms’ were seen ‘playing’ and not ‘working’. The report has further stated that all the children were found to be accompanied by their parents. Since the Labour Department feels that since the report may be contrary to the ground reality, it has decided to go ahead with the probe. “After reading the disturbing news, I instructed my department to submit the report in the case. Since the matter is very sensitive, it needs to be dealt with utmost urgency. Since the district labour department’s report was contrary to the news article, we have decided to go ahead with a probe into the matter,” confirmed HS
Nanda, state Labour Commissioner. Nanda criticised the Jalandhar Deputy Commissioner, stating that he should have taken action immediately, especially since he was the chairman of the Child Welfare Committee.
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Bains alleges bias, EC orders probe
Chandigarh, March 18 Bains, who is also a sitting MLA, had complained that the police were working at the behest of Akalis. He had alleged that the police had registered a case against his nephew after a clash with supporters of Akali candidate from Ludhiana Manpreet Singh Ayali. He had alleged the police was not allowing his nephew to get bail. Raminder Singh, Additional Chief Electoral Officer, said he had received the complaint and the Home Department had been asked to conduct an inquiry. No political conference at Talwandi Sabo on Baisakhi
The EC has said no political conference or rally can be held at Talwandi Sabo on Baisakhi. “This is a religious function and politics cannot be made a part of this,” Raminder Singh. He said the entire proceedings of the conference held at Anandpur Sahib on Hola Mohalla had been videographed and they would examine the video-recording themselves. “The Congress has complained that the Chief Minister had made certain political references in his speech,” he said. Voters to get discount
To encourage people to exercise their franchise, the Chief Electoral Office has asked deputy commissioners of all districts to ask owners of hotels/ restaurants to give discounts ranging from 10-30 per cent to those who vote on April 30. B Purushartha, Additional CEO, said deputy commissioners of Bathinda, Amritsar and Ludhiana had already tied up with hotels in this regard. “We are encouraging students of government schools to make their parents and other family members to make a vow to vote. All government employees have also been roped in to create awareness regarding voting and we hope to increase the vote percentage from 80 per cent in 2012 state assembly elections by at least 10 per cent now,” he said.
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Liquor prices on downward spiral ahead of LS elections
Moga, March 18 Normally, the liquor contractors slash the prices two or three days before the new financial year to finish off their quota of liquor because they cannot sell the old stock unless they pay an additional excise duty as per the new policy. A liquor contractor in Moga told The Tribune that local officials of the Excise Department had asked the contractors verbally to slash the prices as per the new policy, which was yet to come into force. “The contractors have been asked to sell popular brands at prices lesser than the minimum price fixed by the government,” he said, adding that they were likely to suffer losses due to the Department’s directive. The contractors have pasted the discounted rate list on vends. Among the brands of country-made liquor, popular in the rural areas, “santra” and “sonfia” are available for Rs 100 per bottle against the printed rate of Rs 127. A few days ago, the two brands were sold for Rs 180 per bottle. First Choice, a cheaper brand of liquor, which was sold for Rs 200 per bottle a few days ago, is available for Rs 130. Its minimum rate is Rs 151. In the category of Indian-Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL), the prices of Blender Pride, Royal Challenge and Signature brands have been reduced from Rs 700 to Rs 550 per bottle against the minimum rate of Rs 610. A bottle of Royal Stag and Red Knight is now available for Rs 400 as against Rs 500 earlier. Congress leader Vijay Sathi alleged that the liquor trade in the state was under the control of Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal and his brother-in-law Bikram Singh Majithia. “They have reduced the prices to woo voters, amounting not only to the violation of the model code of conduct but also to the unfair trade practice,” he claimed. In a related development, the sale of liquor in Moga, Ferozepur, Fazilka, Faridkot and adjoining districts has increased manifold in the past few days. Poll effect *
In the category of IMFL, the prices of Blender Pride, Royal Challenge and Signature brands have been reduced from ~700 to ~550 per bottle *
Normally, the liquor contractors slash the prices two or three days before the new financial year *
Congress leader Vijay Sathi alleges Deputy CM Sukhbir Badal and his brother-in-law Bikram Majithia have reduced the prices to woo voters
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Need more proof, HC to Ashotush's ex-driver
Chandigarh, March 18 The petition was filed less than a month after Justice MMS Bedi of the High Court made it clear to Puran Singh that he could approach the police station concerned for remedy, if he felt Ashutosh Maharaj had died an unnatural death. Puran Singh had been hale and hearty and his sudden death because of cardiac arrest seemed suspicious. — TNS
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Abohar murder case: High Court summons DGP, CBI officer
Abohar, March 18 Abohar resident Baldev Raj Chawla had on December 12 last year approached the High Court, seeking investigation by the CBI or any other independent agency into the alleged murder of his son Sahil Chawla. He had alleged that the Abohar police closed the case by submitting a report that the death was natural and his son died due to excessive liquor consumption. But the deceased’s chemical examination report procured under the Right To Information (RTI) Act showed that the victim had died due to poisoning. The petitioner, Baldev Raj Chawla, said his son was invited to a birthday party on June 14, 2012. The event was a rave party and influential persons of the town attended it. During the party, a “big conspiracy” was hatched to kill his son, Chawla said. A day after the party, the petitioner had received a phone call from an unidentified person that his son was being taken to the Civil Hospital as his condition had deteriorated. He was shocked to hear that his son had died and those in the hospital were trying to cook up a story of excessive liquor consumption. When the police allegedly tried to hush up the matter, the petitioner, relatives and neighbours staged a dharna and raised slogans, compelling the authorities concerned to conduct a post-mortem examination. The petitioner blamed former Congress MLA Mohinder Rinwa and SAD halqa in-charge Shiv Lal Doda, known as liquor baron, for influencing police investigation. Both, however, refuted the allegation before the media later. Referring to the medical report, Chawla said it was clear that the death was not natural, but a “cold-blooded murder”. The victim was killed by making him forcibly drink liquor with Celphos tablets, he added.
The police had registered a case under Sections 304-A of the IPC against three persons on September 18, 2013. As Chawla countered it before senior officers and approached the High Court, investigation was handed over to the CIA. The CIA staff has said that Sahil Chawla, son of Nisha Chawla and Baldev Raj Chawla, had been running a DJ shop in Gurgaon. His friends Ranjit Singh Bhullar of Green Avenue, Aalok of Nai Abadi and Simran Setia (son of industrialist Sugreev Setia) had been visiting him; they had also reportedly borrowed money from Sahil. To get rid of the debt, they invited Sahil at Setia’s birthday party at a bar here on June 12, 2012, and allegedly gave him food laced with poison. The investigation has the indicated involvement of local shop owner Saurav Kumar and Delhi resident Anuj Behal in the conspiracy. “Bhullar and Behal have been arrested, while others are absconding,” police have said. The case * Abohar resident Baldev Raj Chawla had on December 12 last year approached the High Court, seeking investigation by the CBI or any other independent agency into the alleged murder of his son Sahil Chawla * He had alleged that the Abohar police closed the case by submitting a report that the death was natural and his son died due to excessive liquor consumption * But the chemical examination report showed that the victim died of poisoning
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Dy Mayor booked for honour killing
Ludhiana, March 18 Complainant Rashem Nat alleged his brother Gagandeep Nat was killed at Sharma’s behest as the latter was opposed to his daughter's relations with the victim. The police have registered a case under Sections 302 and 120-B of the IPC against Sharma, Ajitpal, Ammi and two unidentified persons. Rashem, who is also facing a murder case and is said to be a rival of Sharma, told the police that the incident took place last evening when he and his brother were on their way to a gymnasium in Salem Tabri. They were stopped by
Ajitpal, Ammi and their two accomplices. They told Gagandeep to stay away from Sharma’s daughter, but when the latter refused, they assaulted both the brothers. Rashem alleged the assailants dragged Gagandeep to the railway track where they attacked him with sharp weapons. Later, they told Sharma over the phone that they killed Gagandeep, he alleged. Gagandeep was rushed to the hospital where he was declared brought dead. It is reported that Gagandeep and Sharma's daughter wanted to get marry. The victim’s body was handed over to his family after a postmortem, but the latter refused to perform the last rites till the accused are arrested. Case file *
The victim and his brother Rashem Nat were assaulted allegedly by Sharma's goons in Salem Tabri on Monday evening *
The assailants dragged the victim to the railway track and attacked him with sharp weapons *
Later, they allegedly told Sharma over the phone that they killed the youth
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BKI men arrested, terror plot ‘foiled’ in Punjab
Banur (Patiala), March 18 Banur SHO Bikramjit Brar identified those arrested as Gurdeep Singh of Alampur village (Fatehgarh Sahib), Amarjit Singh of Mirzapur village (Patiala), Jasvir Singh of Hulkan village (Banur), Samardeep Singh alias Shammi of Gigemajra village (SAS Nagar), Sucha Singh of Khudda Ali Sher (SAS Nagar) and Harjinder Singh of Burail in Chandigarh. The BKI members -- Gurdeep Singh, Amarjit Singh, Jasvir Singh and Samardeep Singh - have been sent to six-day police remand. The accused were plotting to target VIPs, including Ropar-based religious guru Baba Piara Singh Bhaniarawala, and strike in the state ahead of the polls. Accused Gurdeep Singh and Amarjit Singh alias Kala had planted RDX outside Bhaniarawala’s dera to eliminate him and were also named in an FIR registered in 2007. Amarjit Singh alias Kala had also helped Jagtar Singh Hawara, convicted in the assassination of Punjab ex-chief minister Beant Singh, after he escaped from Chandigarh’s Burail Jail in 2004. He facilitated Hawara’s stay for over three months. “Kala is closely associated with many BKI activists and we are sure to get more leads from his questioning,” Brar said. He was convicted for five years in a terrorist case and was out on bail. Patiala SSP Hardyal Singh Mann said Gurdeep Singh was also a close associate of Hawara. He had played a key role in the Burail jailbreak and after Hawara’s escape. Hawara designated him as area commander of Fatehgarh Sahib district and he is booked in 13 FIRs under various sections of the Explosives Act, Arms Act, terrorist offences and attempt to murder. Gurdeep Singh, Amarjit Singh and Jasvir Singh alias Jodha were presently on bail and had established liaison among themselves to revive terrorist activities in the state and had also motivated some persons with a criminal background to join their terrorist module. The police are also questioning Jasvir Singh alias Jodha for his role is helping the module regroup. The SSP said his preliminary questioning revealed he had been an active member of the BKI and an important conduit of Paramjit Singh Bheora, also convicted for the assassination of Punjab ex-CM Beant Singh. Jodha was arrested by the Delhi Police special cell, along with Bheora in 2006. A consignment of arms and ammunition, including five AK-47 rifles and five foreign-made pistols smuggled through Jaisalmer sector, was recovered from them. “Jodha had sheltered Hawara after his escape from Burail Jail. He faces cases under various sections of the IPC, Arms Act and Explosive Act in New Delhi. Another case under sections of the IPC and Unlawful Activity Prevention Act was registered against him at the Banur police station,” the police officer said. “Shammi’s interrogation revealed he had procured a pistol from a former terrorist. They planned to eliminate Bhaniarawala and later strike ahead of the elections,” the SHO said, suggesting they were in touch with various terror modules settled abroad.
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leader Arun Jaitley's roadshow today left 12 persons, including Punjab Local Bodies Minister Anil Joshi and a few photojournalists, injured. Three persons were
hospitalised.
Amritsar, March 18
Punjab Congress President Partap Singh Bajwa will contest the Lok Sabha elections from his parliamentary constituency of
Gurdaspur. The names of the rest of the candidates from the state will be announced by March 20 as Punjab goes to the polls on April 30.
To woo the electorate ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today struck an emotional chord with the people, citing his affiliation with this border town.
Lakhs of devotees paid obeisance at Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib on the concluding day of the
six-day Hola Mohalla here yesterday. 
Unseasonal rain accompanied by high-velocity winds last night has led to widespread damage of standing wheat crop in the district. Weather experts at Punjab Agricultural University
(PAU) say the rain took place due to western disturbances.
The Banur team of the Patiala Police on Tuesday claimed to have arrested six terrorists, four of them members of Babbar Khalsa International
(BKI), and foiled a terror plot ahead of the Lok Sabha election. 
*
Deputy Mayor RD Sharma was reportedly opposed to his daughter's alleged relations with victim Gagandeep Nat