Patiala

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducted a series of raids in Patiala as part of an ongoing probe involving suspended Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, Charanjit Singh Bhullar. The searches, carried out at the residence of a local property consultant, are believed to be connected to allegations of financial irregularities, illegal property transactions, and misuse of official authority. CBI sources confirmed that the operation was part of a broader investigation into suspected corruption and disproportionate assets.

In a decisive counter-terrorism operation, Punjab Police has successfully dismantled a terrorist module allegedly linked to Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), a banned extremist outfit. The group is believed to be responsible for recent grenade attacks in Patiala, sparking serious security concerns in the region. Acting on intelligence, law enforcement officials arrested key operatives and recovered arms and explosives from their possession.

A sweeping strike by over 2.7 million power sector employees across India is scheduled for July 9, protesting the Uttar Pradesh government’s plan to privatise two major electricity distribution companies (discoms). The move targets Purvanchal Vidyut Vitran Nigam Ltd (PVVNL) and Dakshinanchal Vidyut Vitran Nigam Ltd (DVVNL), which collectively serve 42 of the state’s 75 districts. Workers and union leaders allege collusion between government officials and private entities aiming to sell discom assets at undervalued prices.

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, during his recent visit to Patiala, urged farmers to embrace crop diversification as a strategic move to enhance profitability while conserving water. Emphasizing the importance of sustainable agriculture practices, he highlighted the success of the Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR) technique. Additionally, Chouhan discussed the Centre’s stance on the Indus Waters Treaty following recent geopolitical tensions, stating that water from the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab rivers would now be redirected to benefit Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan.

Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh’s unannounced visit to the Aam Aadmi Clinic in Chalela underscores the state government’s proactive approach toward ensuring quality healthcare delivery. The inspection assessed service standards, patient satisfaction, medicine availability, and diagnostic facilities. Emphasizing preventive healthcare, the minister mandated regular student health screenings and emphasized systematic documentation. Additionally, efforts to improve clinic environs, including plans for a community park, were outlined.