Leader of the House Initiates Historic Tradition on First Day of Assembly’s Winter Session

Chief Minister Welcomes Bhupender Singh Hooda as Leader of Opposition

Chandigarh, 18 December – Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini set a precedent on the very first day of the Winter Session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha by initiating a new tradition in the House. He warmly congratulated and officially welcomed Sh. Bhupender Singh Hooda as the Leader of the Opposition, a historic gesture, marking the first time in Haryana Assembly’s history that the Leader of the House has formally welcomed the Leader of Opposition.

Sh. Bhupender Singh Hooda appreciated the Chief Minister’s gesture, stating that while political differences may exist, personal differences should not. Public interest should always take precedence. He added that the opposition will confine itself to political disagreements only, and he hopes the ruling side will do the same, so that both sides can better serve the people.

Welcoming the opposition leader, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini highlighted Sh. Bhupinder Singh Hooda’s seniority and experience, noting that he is a symbol of political wisdom, legislative diligence, and deep administrative understanding. From student politics to the Assembly and Parliament, he has played an active role on every platform. This experience has led him to be elected four times to the Lok Sabha and six times to the Haryana Assembly.

He further stated that Sh. Bhupinder Singh Hooda served as the Chief Minister of Haryana for ten years, gaining parliamentary expertise, procedural knowledge, and a strong grasp of issues, which will benefit both the government and the opposition.

The Chief Minister emphasised the crucial role of the opposition leader in a democracy, noting that the opposition raises questions on government policies, provides suggestions, and ensures that the public’s voice reaches the House. He expressed confidence that having an experienced leader like Sh. Bhupinder Singh Hooda will make the proceedings of the Assembly more meaningful, serious, and constructive.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini also remarked that Haryana is entering a new phase of development. The people have entrusted the government with the responsibility of “non-stop” service and good governance. In this journey of development, both the government and the opposition play an important role. When experience and energy work together, significant public welfare goals can be achieved more effectivel

=============================================

Farmers’ Interests are paramount; BJP Government stands firmly by them in every situation — Chief Minister

Chandigarh, 18 December – Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the government is considering the situation in flood-affected areas very seriously. He personally visited the affected regions and interacted with farmers. Regarding the removal of sand deposited in fields due to flooding, the government has deployed teams to ensure that if excessive sand has accumulated in any field, permission for its removal will be granted. However, it was found that the sand deposition was not significant.

The Chief Minister was responding to a question raised by MLA Sh. Ram Karan about granting permission for the removal of sand deposited in fields due to floods during the Winter session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha, which commenced here today.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini explained that the sand had largely settled in the riverbed. Fields within the boundaries for which the government has provided compensation were inspected, and it was found that excessive sand had not accumulated.

He emphasized that the BJP government’s top priority is to ensure that farmers do not face any difficulties, and that the government compensates them for every small and large loss. For the government, the welfare of farmers remains supreme.

==========================================

Providing Adequate Drinking Water is the Utmost priority of the Government — Chief Minister

Government Taking Concrete Steps to Strengthen Water Supply in Rohtak — Chief Minister

Chandigarh, December 18 — Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, said that it is the utmost responsibility of the government to ensure adequate drinking water for every citizen, and the government is continuously working in this direction. In the same spirit, efforts are being made to ensure drinking water supply to every household in Rohtak as well.

The Chief Minister was replying to a question raised by MLA, Sh. Bharat Bhushan Batra regarding adequate drinking water supply in Rohtak city on the first day of the Winter Session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha which commenced here today.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that, for the construction of a reservoir, 16 acres of land belonging to the Municipal Corporation, Rohtak, is proposed to be transferred to the concerned department. In addition, a pump on the Sonipat Road, which is currently not functioning properly, is being repaired and its capacity is being enhanced.

The Chief Minister assured that there will be no shortage of water in the Rohtak region, and the government is actively working to ensure uninterrupted water supply.

===============================================

Haryana Vidhan Sabha Unanimously Passes Resolution to Commemorate 350th Martyrdom Year of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji

Chandigarh, December 18- On the first day of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha, which commenced here today, the House unanimously passed a resolution to commemorate the 350th martyrdom year of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the Ninth Guru and protector of India’s honour. The historic decision reflects the collective respect and reverence of the people of Haryana, underscoring the state’s commitment to honouring the ideals of righteousness, human dignity, and selfless service exemplified by Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.

Speaking in the House, Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini conveyed the sentiments of the Haryana Government and all citizens, highlighting the enduring legacy of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, whose life and sacrifice symbolise the very soul of Indian civilisation—a soul willing to uphold truth, righteousness, and human dignity, never bowing to injustice.

The Chief Minister recalled that on 25 August 2025, the proposal for the state-wide celebration of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s 350th martyrdom year was unanimously passed in the House. He emphasised that this resolution was not merely formal, but an extension of Haryana’s tradition of embracing the ideals of Gurus, saints, and great personalities in public life.To implement the resolution inclusively, the Chief Minister said an all-party meeting was organised in Chandigarh on 3 November. Representatives from all political parties provided significant suggestions to make the observances meaningful and grand. He noted that the meeting became a fine example of Haryana’s democratic tradition and cultural unity, as everyone expressed respect for the state’s glorious history and heritage, rising above political differences.

The Chief Minister said that the state government has faithfully, sensitively, and inclusively implemented the resolution on the ground. In collaboration with the Haryana Sikh Gurudwara Management Committee, numerous events were organised across the state, aiming not only to pay homage to Guru Sahib but also to inspire the younger generation with his life, teachings, and supreme sacrifice. He emphasised that efforts ensured Guru Ji’s message reached every village, town, school, institution, and home.

Throughout November, a continuous wave of devotion and awareness toward Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s sacrifice was observed. The Chief Minister personally inaugurated the first sacred procession from Rodhi in Sirsa district on 8 November. Subsequently, large processions were held from Pinjore, Faridabad, and Sadhaura. These processions passed through over 500 villages, spreading Guru Sahib’s message to every citizen and culminating on 24 November at the holy land of Kurukshetra. Citizens from all religions and social classes enthusiastically welcomed the processions, affirming that Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji remains a guide for all humanity.

On 25 November, a grand congregation was held at Jyotisar, Kurukshetra, under the sacred light of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Lakhs of devotees from across the state paid homage to Guru Ji. The Chief Minister noted that this day became historic as a special wave of faith extended from Shri Ram Lalla Mandir in Ayodhya to Kurukshetra. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji hoisted the flag at Shri Ram Lalla Mandir and then directly joined the congregation at Jyotisar, Kurukshetra. During the event, he released a commemorative coin and postage stamp issued by the Government of India in honor of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, along with a coffee table book prepared by the Haryana Government, giving national and international recognition to the observance and infusing energy among all participants.

In keeping with Guru Ji’s teachings, the Chief Minister said that 350 blood donation camps were organized across Haryana, collecting over 23,000 units of blood. Essay competitions were held in schools in Sanskrit, Hindi, Punjabi, and English, engaging 350,000 students. A state-level storytelling competition enabled students from every district to express and understand Guru Sahib’s life through their perspective.

A national-level seminar at Chaudhary Devi Lal University, Sirsa, focused on Guru Ji’s life, philosophy, and works. The Chief Minister said that during the seminar, a chair was decided to be established in his name, preserving his ideas for future research and study.

To perpetuate Guru Ji’s memory, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini stated that Government Polytechnic, Ambala, was named after Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. The Tohana-Jind-Dhamtan Sahib road was renamed as Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Marg. Nearly 80,000 people participated in the ‘Hind Ki Chadar’ Marathon in Karnal, reflecting the continued resonance of Guru Ji’s message.State-level ceremonies at the martyrdom site of Dada Kushal Singh Dahiya in Badkhalsa honored his sacrifice in bringing Guru Ji’s head to Anandpur Sahib. Tributes were also paid to Bhai Jaita Ji, Bhai Dayala Ji, Bhai Sati Das Ji, and Bhai Mati Das Ji for their unparalleled sacrifices.

The Chief Minister said that a forest was developed in the name of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji in Kalesar, Yamunanagar district, which included tree plantations, a wildlife conservation block, and the construction of the Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Gate. In the same district, the Guru Tegh Bahadur Agricultural College was announced in Kishanpura, linking Guru Sahib’s name with education and agriculture.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini noted that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji’s participation on 25 November added further significance to the events. On the same day, he inaugurated the ‘Anubhav Kendra’ based on the Mahabharata theme and the ‘Panchajanya Memorial’ at the International Gita Mahotsav. Three days later, on 28 November, the Prime Minister praised the Anubhav Kendra in Udupi, and on 30 November, mentioned it again during his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ program, filling Haryana with pride and honour.

The Chief Minister emphasised that Haryana is not only a land of warriors but also a land sanctified by Sikh Gurus, with Gurudwaras across the state and deep reverence among its people. The devotion of citizens was clearly visible in the enthusiastic participation across villages, towns, and cities.

The Chief Minister expressed gratitude to the Haryana Sikh Gurudwara Management Committee, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Shaheedi Diwas Organising Committee, public representatives, social organisations, and citizen groups for their support in making the events historic. He also thanked Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji for participating in the grand congregation and honouring Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, motivating Haryana and the nation to continue spreading the Guru’s teachings.

On the request of the Chief Minister, the House unanimously passed the resolution. The unanimous passage of this proposal reflects Haryana’s enduring commitment to preserving its spiritual and cultural heritage while inspiring future generations with the timeless teachings of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.

================================

*Haryana Setting Gold Standard in Forensic DNA Protocol for POCSO Cases with 99% Positivity Rate – ACS, Dr. Sumita Misra*

Chandigarh, December 18 — Responding to recent media reports highlighting high negative DNA results in Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) cases across some states including Punjab, Additional Chief Secretary (ACS), Home Department, Dr. Sumita Misra, today informed that the state has established a scientifically robust, three-tier forensic examination protocol that serves as a national benchmark for forensic excellence, achieving an unprecedented 99% DNA positivity rate with negative reports of less than 1%.

Dr. Misra stated, "Our approach is rooted in scientific rigor, resource optimization, and unwavering commitment to justice for our children. We have created a system that ensures every piece of forensic evidence presented in court is reliable, actionable, and capable of withstanding the highest standards of judicial scrutiny."

ACS Home highlighted that the Haryana model follows a scientifically filtered, step-wise approach comprising three critical tiers: First, time-critical medical examination of alleged victims conducted within the critical timeframes to ensure meticulous collection, forwarding and comprehensive documentation of physical evidences for forensic examination: Second, rigorous preliminary Biology and Serology screening of all collected samples for the detection of biological fluids before advancing to DNA profiling, which serves as a critical gatekeeping step to identify samples with biological indicators of sexual assault: Third, world class advanced DNA profiling methods undertaken exclusively in cases where preliminary findings indicate positive biological markers, positioning DNA examination as a powerful confirmatory tool rather than a blanket screening mechanism.

Dr. Misra emphasized that Haryana’s protocol is aligned with internationally accepted forensic principles and laboratory quality standards, similar to the evidence-triage and selective DNA examination practices followed by leading forensic laboratories worldwide, including the FBI Forensic Laboratory, USA. The strategic advantages of this approach include optimal deployment of specialized laboratory resources by conducting advanced DNA testing only when scientifically warranted, enhanced judicial confidence through consistently reliable high-confidence forensic evidence, prevention of misleading interpretations by conducting advanced testing only on cases with established biological indicators, and accelerated case resolution through faster turnaround times for forensic reports.

"Haryana's approach represents a best-practice model that other states can adopt," Dr. Misra emphasized, noting that the protocol has garnered positive feedback from both the judiciary and law enforcement agencies who appreciate receiving forensic reports with high evidentiary value. She said that Haryana remains committed to continuous enhancement of its forensic capabilities through regular training programs for medical and forensic personnel, investment in cutting-edge, most-advanced laboratory equipment, collaboration with national and international forensic science institutions, and periodic review and adoption of protocols based on emerging scientific evidence.

Dr. Misra further stated, "Our children deserve a criminal justice system that operates with precision, speed, and unwavering dedication to truth. The Haryana practice showcased that when science, policy, and commitment converge, we can create systems that truly serve justice." ACS Home invited forensic experts and policymakers from across the country to study Haryana's model as states seek to strengthen their own POCSO case investigation and prosecution frameworks.

She informed that Haryana is continuously upgrading its forensic infrastructure and modernizing its equipment. During the current financial year, an investment of Rs. 18 crore has been made towards establishing state-of-the-art DNA and Cyber forensic facilities. In addition, the State has augmented its manpower, and consequently, a new DNA Division at the Regional Forensic Science Laboratory, Gurugram, is scheduled to become operational from 1st January, 2026. State has further enhanced its forensic capabilities at the scene of crime with 40 mobile forensic vans. Further approval has been granted of Rs. 101 crore to procure Modern Forensic Equipments, she added.