Delay in trials of sexual offences against kids: Forensic lab assures court of prompt purchase of DNA kits

The Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) in Karnal, India has expedited the process of purchasing DNA PCR kits to comply with a special fast-track court holding trial of Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act cases in Palwal. The court had taken note of non-availability of DNA PCR kits, which was delaying the trials of 1,500 heinous sexual offences against women and child victims in the state. The FSL DNA division assistant director has assured the court that the purchase of 40 autosomal DNA kits and 20 Y-marker kits has been sent to the department, and the DNA report will be submitted at the earliest.

Chandigarh residents asked to Pay property tax by May 31 to avail rebate

Chandigarh municipal commissioner urges residents to pay property tax by May 31, offering 20% rebate for residential and 10% for commercial properties. Tax rates revised from 3% to 5%, with approximately 1.38 lakh properties affected.

DK Shivakumar proposes dedicated flyover from Hebbal to Bengaluru airport, writes to Nitin Gadkari

DK Shivakumar proposes a dedicated 35-km elevated flyover from Hebbal to Bengaluru airport to reduce traffic congestion, enhance connectivity, and improve travel time for passengers, freight vehicles, and commuters, while also seeking infrastructure development funding.

Chandigarh: 5 yrs on, drug de-addiction centre at GMSH-16 still not operational

A drug de-addiction centre at Chandigarh's GMSH-16 remains non-operational since 2020 due to psychiatrist shortage. Despite rising substance abuse cases and "Drug Free Chandigarh" campaign, the 12-bed facility stays closed, forcing patients to seek limited alternative treatments.

Theft from HPCL tankers in Lucknow: Gang replaced fuel with chemical, had ‘protection’

A gang in Lucknow stole fuel from HPCL tankers, replacing it with chemicals. Five members were arrested, and six police officers were suspended for alleged collusion. The sophisticated theft operation involved hijacking tankers and selling stolen fuel at discounted rates.

Mock drills, air raid sirens, blackouts: Tricity tests its readiness

Tricity (Chandigarh, Mohali, Panchkula) conducted nationwide civil defence mock drills, including blackouts and emergency simulations, testing readiness amid potential conflict. Sirens, building evacuations, and emergency response scenarios were practiced across multiple public locations and institutions.

Two held for thrashing58-year-old to death in Kharar

Two men were arrested for brutally beating a 58-year-old gardener to death near a bus stand in Kharar. The victim's son filed a complaint, leading to the arrest of two suspects. Police are searching for other attackers involved in the fatal assault.

UP issues ‘red alert’ after India strikes Pak terror camps

Uttar Pradesh declared a 'red alert' after India's strikes on Pakistani terror camps. Police are on high alert, coordinating with defense units, securing vital installations, and enhancing security across the state, particularly in sensitive districts.

IAF takes control of Chandigarh airport, all civilian flights cancelled for now

IAF takes full control of Chandigarh airport, cancelling all 52 flights due to regional security concerns following missile strikes on terrorist hideouts. Passengers stranded, exploring alternative travel options like trains and road transport, with high taxi fares disrupting travel plans.

Train people on dealing with “war-like” situation: Jai Ram

Jai Ram Thakur advocates training people for "war-like" scenarios, praising armed forces and PM Modi's Operation Sindoor. Shimla DC holds meeting with fuel and gas companies to ensure essential supplies and security preparedness.

Kangra airport shut, uncertainty looms over IPL ties

Kangra airport closed for 72 hours after "Operation Sindoor," disrupting civilian flights and casting uncertainty on two upcoming IPL matches in Dharamshala. Teams' travel and game schedules remain uncertain pending official directives from BCCI and government.

Operation Sindoor fills nation with pride: HP Guv

Himachal Pradesh governor praises Operation Sindoor, calling it a matter of national pride. He commends the Indian Army's successful cross-border operation against terrorists, highlighting the mission's strategic importance and commitment to combating terrorism.

Op Sindoor: UP CM, dy CMs praise action, salute valour

UP political leaders praised Operation Sindoor, an Indian Army strike on terrorist sites in Pakistan, following the Pahalgam attack. They hailed the operation as a bold response, expressing pride in the military's courage and commitment to national security.

Mock drill conducted as part of ‘Operation Abhyas’ in Shimla

A mock drill under 'Operation Abhyas' was conducted in Shimla at two locations, DC office and Sanjauli parking area. Civil defense volunteers participated, testing emergency response and communication systems, with officials emphasizing preparedness and future disaster management capabilities.

Japanese team to review mid-term forestry project in HP

Japanese JICA team reviews mid-term forestry project in Himachal Pradesh, assessing progress across six districts. The initiative supports 460 village forest societies and 920 self-help groups, focusing on ecosystem management and livelihood improvement until 2028.

HP Guv thanks centre for 2-lane bridge at Udaipur, Lahaul-Spiti

Himachal governor thanked Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for inaugurating a new two-lane bridge in Udaipur, Lahaul-Spiti. Built by BRO at ₹4.7 crore, the Bhim Setu improves regional connectivity and transportation infrastructure.