Punjab

In a controversial development, an Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) legislator, facing allegations in the AppRape case, has reportedly fled India for Australia, stating intentions to return after obtaining bail. The move has intensified political debate, drawing scrutiny over legal procedures, political accountability, and enforcement of judicial mandates. Authorities are reportedly coordinating with international agencies to monitor the situation, while the party faces criticism for its handling of the controversy.

The Punjab government has announced a month-long series of spiritual and educational programs to commemorate the unparalleled sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the ninth Sikh Guru and a symbol of religious freedom and human dignity. The initiative aims to deepen public awareness of his teachings while celebrating Sikh heritage through devotional gatherings, cultural programs, seminars, and student-centered activities. Officials say the events are designed to inspire social harmony, unity, and moral responsibility among citizens.

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has asserted that public sentiment in Punjab is shifting, with voters allegedly growing disillusioned with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and signaling a desire for political change. Speaking during a recent interaction, Saini argued that governance concerns and unmet expectations have created electoral unpredictability in the state. His remarks come amid heightened political activity, with parties positioning themselves ahead of upcoming election cycles.

Student organizations at Panjab University have pledged to continue their protests even after the central government decided to place proposed senate reforms on hold. The contentious reforms, which aimed to alter the university’s governance structure and reduce student representation, had sparked widespread demonstrations across the campus. While the Centre’s temporary suspension of the proposal is seen as a partial victory, student leaders insist their agitation will persist until the government completely withdraws the plan.

Punjab’s sporting community has been rocked by another tragedy as a second Kabaddi player was killed within a week, with the Bishnoi gang reportedly claiming responsibility. The incident has reignited concerns over the growing nexus between organized crime and sports in northern India. Law enforcement agencies have launched an intensive investigation into the killing, which follows a series of similar attacks targeting athletes in the state.

In a significant political development in Punjab, the state Congress has formally rejected the proposed compensation of Rs 20,000 per acre for farmers affected by recent crop damage. The party contends that the amount is insufficient to cover the losses incurred due to natural calamities and rising input costs, urging the state and central governments to reassess the package. Farmers’ representatives have voiced concerns over delayed disbursements and inadequate support for rehabilitating affected agricultural areas.

Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar has pledged Rs. 5 crore to assist communities affected by severe flooding in Punjab, describing the donation as an act of “sewa” or selfless service. The funds are earmarked for critical relief operations, including provision of food, clean water, medicines, and temporary shelters for displaced families. Kumar’s gesture comes amid escalating humanitarian needs following unprecedented rainfall and overflowing rivers, which have submerged villages and disrupted livelihoods.

In response to the severe flooding across Punjab, the state government has announced that all schools, colleges, universities, and polytechnic institutions will remain closed until September 7. The decision, aimed at ensuring student safety and facilitating relief operations, follows days of heavy rainfall and rising river levels that have inundated several districts. Displacement of families, damaged infrastructure, and logistical hurdles have compounded the crisis, making it unsafe to resume in-person classes.