Bhagwant Mann and Arvind Kejriwal Share Grief with Family of Late Sanjay Verma

Assure Full Safety and Justice to the Bereaved Family

Jagat Verma Thanks State Government for Swift and Decisive Action Against Criminals

Abohar, August 1 :Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convener Arvind Kejriwal visited the residence of renowned city-based businessman, the late Sanjay Verma, on Friday to express their condolences to the bereaved family.

Bhagwant Singh Mann and Arvind Kejriwal met Sanjay Verma’s brother, Jagat Verma, and offered their sympathies. They stated that while this is an irreparable loss for the family, it is also a significant loss for society, which has lost a determined and enterprising individual. Both leaders prayed to the Almighty to grant eternal peace to the departed soul and strength to the family to bear this profound loss.

Both the leaders noted that the Verma family had carved a niche for itself through hard work, dedication, and commitment thereby further bringing global recognition to Abohar town. They assured the family that the Punjab government stands firmly with them during this hour of grief and crisis. Bhagwant Singh Mann and Arvind Kejriwal reiterated the state government’s zero-tolerance policy towards heinous crimes and affirmed that exemplary punishment would be ensured for those responsible for such brutal acts.

They further stated that the Punjab Police had already neutralized two gangsters involved in the murder through a police encounter. The Chief Minister assured the family that full justice would be delivered and that not a single perpetrator of this heinous act would be spared.

He also emphasized that ensuring the safety of all the Punjabis in general and this family in particular is the top priority of the state government, and every possible effort is being made in this regard.

Meanwhile, Sanjay Verma’s brother, Jagat Verma, expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for the swift and decisive action taken by the Punjab Police in the case. He also thanked both the leaders for standing with the family in this hour of crisis and ensuring justice to them by stern action against the criminals.

On the occasion senior AAP leader Manish Sisodia and others were present.

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BHAGWANT MANN AND ARVIND KEJRIWAL LAUNCH ANTI-DRUG CURRICULUM TO BE INTRODUCED IN SCHOOLS UNDER “WAR AGAINST DRUGS”

NEW CHAPTER IN WAR AGAINST DRUGS

MOVE AIMED TO MAKE 8 LAKH STUDENTS FROM CLASSES 9 TO 12 AWARE AGAINST THE MENACE OF DRUGS

OTHER STATES WILL FOLLOW PUNJAB’S MODEL AGAINT DRUG MENACE- KEJRIWAL

EXHORTS PUNJABIS TO MAKE STATE DRUG FREE

CM SLAMS PREVIOUS REGIMES FOR SPREADING MENACE OF DRUGS IN STATE

VOWS TO ENSURE EXEMPLARY PUNISHMENT TO BIG FISHES INVOLVED IN DRUG TRADE

Arniwala (Fazilka), August 1:In a path breaking initiative Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and National Convener of AAP Arvind Kejriwal on Friday unveiled the anti-drug curriculum to be introduced in Schools under “War Against Drugs” with an aim to make 8 lakh students aware against the menace of drugs.

Addressing the gathering, the National Convener of AAP said that this marks the beginning of a new chapter in Punjab’s battle against drugs from the border district of Punjab. He said that Punjab’s war against drugs has now reached a crucial stage and as part of the third phase of the state government’s campaign “Yudh Nashean De Virudh” (War Against Drugs), a special syllabus is being introduced in all government schools for students from classes 9 to 12. Arvind Kejriwal said that through this syllabus, 8 lakh students from these classes will be made aware of the dangers of drug abuse and encouraged to stay away from narcotic substances.

The National Convener of AAP said that this anti-drug program will involve 3,658 schools and renowned scientists will also take part in raising awareness among students. Arvind Kejriwal said that the curriculum will include 35-minute sessions, to be conducted fortnightly over 27 weeks and will include documentaries, quizzes, posters, and interactive activities. He said that these sessions will focus on major themes such as busting myths about drugs, strategies to say no to drugs, and resisting peer pressure.

The National Convener of AAP said that the state government has already launched the “War Against Drugs” campaign and under this initiative, more than 15,000 drug traffickers have been sent to jail, properties have been seized, and over 1,000 kilograms of heroin have been recovered. Arvind Kejriwal said that properties acquired by drug smugglers through the illegal drug trade are being demolished. He said that the most notorious and feared drug lord has been put behind the bars by an honest government in the state.

The National Convener of AAP said that ironically all the political parties have come in the support of this drug lord which has exposed their ugly face. He said that these political parties have remained mum on the plight of the state due to drugs but are supporting the kingpin of drugs. Arvind Kejriwal said that Nasha Virodhi Yatra has reached more than 10,000 villages and wards of the state adding that the desired results are coming.

The National Convener of AAP said that it is the responsibility of every youth to support this unique and noble initiative of the state government. He said that the youth should resist the peer pressure of tasting the drugs for the first time as it can be fatal for them. Arvind Kejriwal said that it is the high time that everyone should come forward and join the crusade against drugs adding that efforts are also being made for the rehabilitation of individuals who have quit drug use, so they can stand on their feet again and lead lives of dignity and respect.

The National Convener of AAP said that it is unfortunate that no state or country has remained untouched by the menace of drugs. He envisioned that this path breaking initiative will be replicated in other states too for wiping out the menace of drugs. Arvind Kejriwal said that Punjab’s misfortune lies in its geographical location along an international border, which made it a drug route for smugglers.

The National Convener of AAP exhorted the people of Punjab to unite and pledge to make our society drug-free. He also said that the state government has strictly implemented a zero-tolerance policy against drug traffickers. Arvind Kejriwal said that the smugglers, who celebrate with luxuries at home while poisoning society, are the real enemies of our people and the state government will not spare them at any cost.

In his address, Chief Minister said that due to strenuous efforts of the state government complete facelift of government schools has taken place. He said that students are leaving the private schools and joining government schools, which shows people’s trust in them. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that such events should not have taken place but it is unfortunate that such conditions have emerged in Punjab due to which these events have been necessitated.

The Chief Minister said that the blot of drugs have been put on the face of the state by the previous governments. He said that after assuming charge of the state it took us time to formulate a strategy adding that the state government started de-addiction centers to ensure treatment for those giving up drugs. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the state government is also working to skill them and enable them to live life with dignity and pride.

The Chief Minister said that crusade against drugs has been ongoing for the past 150 days and hundreds of panchayats have passed resolutions pledging that they will never support drug traffickers. He said that this war against drugs has now transformed into a mass movement adding that as a part of it the state government has introduced anti-drug education into the school syllabus. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that students will be made aware of the symptoms and dangers of drug addiction as the first use of drugs marks the beginning of a ruined life.

The Chief Minister said that the state government doesn’t do vote-bank politics adding that School children don’t even vote but still, we want to make them aware against this curse. On the contrary, he said that the previous regimes ruined the youth by selling and patronizing the drug trade adding that these leaders used to party and buy lands in the hills. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the kids of these leaders went to school escorted by armed guards adding that the state government has taken decisive action against these leaders.

The Chief Minister said that when Majithia was caught, Congress, Akali Dal, and BJP all came out in his support adding that some of these leaders used to say they would drag Majithia by his collar, but now they’re backing him. He said that Punjab was looted and ruined by these leaders for their lust of minting the money illegally as drug packets were supplied in official cars of Ministers. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that drug traffickers were considered close friends of the rulers due to which drugs spread their tentacles in the state.

The Chief Minister said that the state government will strongly continue the legal fight against Majithia till he gets exemplary punishment for his sins. He said that Sukhbir Badal only knows his relatives’ names and he is not aware of the basic topography of Punjab. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that people elected Badals umpteen times but these people never cared about the masses or the state.

The Chief Minister said that to keep the youth of the state away from the temptation of drugs, the Punjab government is constructing playgrounds and gyms in every village. He also said that a WhatsApp number – 9779100200 has been issued for people to report information about drug trafficking adding that the identity of the informants is kept strictly confidential. Bhagwant Singh Mann said that efforts are also being made for the rehabilitation of individuals who have quit drug use, so they can stand on their feet again and lead lives of dignity and respect.

In his address senior AAP leader, Manish Sisodia said that Punjab has always been a leader in every field and now school children from state will lead the nation in saying no to drugs. He said that after government schools, the syllabus will also be introduced in the private schools adding that basic infrastructure of Punjab’s schools has been strengthened and state now holds the top position in the country in the field of education. Manish Sisodia warned the drug traffickers to stop the heinous crime immediately or be ready to face strict consequences.

Addressing the gathering, Cabinet Minister Harjot Singh Bains said that the Education sector is witnessing revolutionary changes during the current regime. He said that the scourge of drugs spread its tentacles in the state during the Akali-BJP regime. Harjot Singh Bains said that the AAP government led by Chief Minister has launched a massive crackdown against the menace of drugs and the introduction of syllabus against drug menace will help in complete elimination of drugs from state.

On the occasion Cabinet Minister Harjot Singh Bains, senior AAP leader Manish Sisodia, Secretary Education Anindita Mitra and others were also present.

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Bhagwant Mann and Arvind Kejriwal Share Grief with Family of Late Sanjay Verma

Assure Full Safety and Justice to the Bereaved Family

Jagat Verma Thanks State Government for Swift and Decisive Action Against Criminals

Abohar, August 1 :Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convener Arvind Kejriwal visited the residence of renowned city-based businessman, the late Sanjay Verma, on Friday to express their condolences to the bereaved family.

Bhagwant Singh Mann and Arvind Kejriwal met Sanjay Verma’s brother, Jagat Verma, and offered their sympathies. They stated that while this is an irreparable loss for the family, it is also a significant loss for society, which has lost a determined and enterprising individual. Both leaders prayed to the Almighty to grant eternal peace to the departed soul and strength to the family to bear this profound loss.

Both the leaders noted that the Verma family had carved a niche for itself through hard work, dedication, and commitment thereby further bringing global recognition to Abohar town. They assured the family that the Punjab government stands firmly with them during this hour of grief and crisis. Bhagwant Singh Mann and Arvind Kejriwal reiterated the state government’s zero-tolerance policy towards heinous crimes and affirmed that exemplary punishment would be ensured for those responsible for such brutal acts.

They further stated that the Punjab Police had already neutralized two gangsters involved in the murder through a police encounter. The Chief Minister assured the family that full justice would be delivered and that not a single perpetrator of this heinous act would be spared.

He also emphasized that ensuring the safety of all the Punjabis in general and this family in particular is the top priority of the state government, and every possible effort is being made in this regard.

Meanwhile, Sanjay Verma’s brother, Jagat Verma, expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for the swift and decisive action taken by the Punjab Police in the case. He also thanked both the leaders for standing with the family in this hour of crisis and ensuring justice to them by stern action against the criminals.

On the occasion senior AAP leader Manish Sisodia and others were present.

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Dr. Baljit Kaur orders immediate action for rescue and rehabilitation of children begging in Dera Bassi

Chandigarh, August 1:Following reports highlighting the extremely poor and distressing conditions of children and their families begging near the Dera Bassi flyover, Punjab Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur has taken swift cognizance and issued strict directions for their immediate rescue and rehabilitation.

As per reports from the concerned area, these children and their families are living in unsafe and unhygienic open spaces. Dr. Baljit Kaur expressed serious concern that these children are vulnerable to exploitation, and ensuring their safety is a top priority for the government.

The Minister has directed officials of the Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development, Child Protection Units, and the district administration to immediately launch a special rescue operation in the area. She emphasized that rescued children must be promptly provided with shelter, food, medical care, and access to education.

Dr. Baljit Kaur has also instructed officials across all districts of Punjab to treat such cases with utmost seriousness and to immediately initiate similar rescue and rehabilitation campaigns for children found begging in their respective regions. She stated that this campaign must be conducted in a sustained and committed manner under the “Project JEEVANJYOT – 2: Save the Childhood”, so that no child in Punjab is forced into begging.

The Minister further stated that if any individual or group is found forcing children to beg, strict legal action will be taken against them. She stressed the importance of coordinated action involving police, health, education, and municipal authorities to ensure effective rehabilitation and a safe environment under the Project JEEVANJYOT framework.

She appealed to the public to report any incident of child begging or trafficking immediately by calling the Child Helpline 1098. Dr. Baljit Kaur reiterated that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is fully committed to ensuring a safe, dignified, and bright future for every child in the state.

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PUNJAB SC COMMISSION SUMMONS SSP PATIALA OVER TRUCK DRIVERS' SUICIDE CASE

Chandigarh, August 1:Taking suo moto cognizance of the tragic suicide case involving two truck drivers from village Niyal near Patran in Patiala district, Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission Chairman S. Jasvir Singh Garhi has summoned Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Patiala.

Divulging further, Commission's spokesperson said that the two drivers from village Niyal, located near Patran town in Patiala district, had recently taken their own lives. One of the deceased, Harpreet Singh, belonged to the Scheduled Caste community. The bereaved family members have been conducting a continuous protest on the Patran-Patiala highway for the past six days, demanding justice and appropriate action.

In response to this matter, Commission Chairman S. Jasvir Singh Garhi has directed the SSP Patiala to appear personally before the Commission and submit a comprehensive report on August 5, 2025.

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GURMEET SINGH KHUDIAN HANDS OVER JOB LETTERS TO 11 NEWLY RECRUITED AGRICULTURE DEVELOPMENT OFFICERS

• Agriculture Minister wishes them all the best for career ahead & exhorts to dedicate themselves to empower Punjab’s farmers

Chandigarh, August 1:Punjab Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian handed over appointment letters to 11 youth as Agriculture Development Officers (ADOs) in the Agriculture department, at his office here on Friday.

Extending heartiest congratulations to the newly appointed ADOs, Punjab Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian exhorted them to dedicate themselves to their roles, working tirelessly to empower the state's farmers and drive agricultural growth. He emphasised the importance of their responsibilities, while encouraging them to go above and beyond in providing guidance and support to farmers to making Punjab a thriving agrarian state.

Highlighting the Agriculture department’s recruitment drive, S. Khudian informed that earlier, on May 20, 2025, 184 Agriculture Development Officers had received their appointment letters. With the inclusion of the 11 newly appointed ADOs, the total count of recruited ADOs in the department has now reached 195. Notably, Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government has given over 55000 government jobs to the youth in the state since came to power.

The Agriculture Minister said that this substantial recruitment is set to enhance the department's capacity, empowering it to provide more effective and efficient services to the state's farmers.

Dr. Basant Garg, Administrative Secretary of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, congratulated the newly appointed Agriculture Development Officers, while imploring them to discharge their duties with utmost integrity and dedication.

Director Agriculture Jaswant Singh and other senior officials of the department were also present on the occasion.

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PUNJAB GOVERNMENT EXPEDITES GST REFUNDS, SANCTIONS RS 241.17 CRORE IN JULY: HARPAL SINGH CHEEMA

SAYS, OVERALL DISPOSAL RATIO EXPECTED TO REACH 60% IN TERMS OF NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS

Chandigarh, August 1-Punjab Finance, Planning, Excise and Taxation Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema announced on Friday that the Punjab government is making significant progress in processing pending Goods and Services Tax (GST) refund applications by sanctioning 1,408 applications in July, amounting to a total refund of Rs 241.17 crore.

Addressing a press conference here, the Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that as of July 31, 2025, the state has cleared a substantial portion of the backlog, demonstrating a concerted effort to streamline the refund process for businesses. He said that as of June 30, 2025, there were 3,452 pending refund applications, totaling Rs 832.93 crore. He revealed that in July, refunds totaling Rs 241.17 crore were sanctioned, comprising Rs 57 crore for the State Goods and Services Tax (SGST) component, refunded directly from the State Treasury, and Rs 184.17 crore for the Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST) and Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) components, which will be reimbursed by the Central Government.

Highlighting the direct impact of these refunds on the state’s finances, Finance Minister Cheema said that SGST refunds are deducted from gross tax collections to determine the state's net revenue. He also stated that an additional 663 applications, totaling Rs 52 crore, are currently being processed. Once these applications are approved, the state expects the overall disposal ratio to reach 60% in terms of the number of applications and 35% in terms of the total refund amount.

Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema reiterated the AAP led state government's commitment to ensuring a transparent and efficient tax administration system. He added that the state will continue to prioritize the swift resolution of pending refunds to support local businesses and improve the ease of doing business in Punjab.

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