QUICKREADS

Punjab BJP jumps to Manpreet’s defence, questions FIR’s timing
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders in Punjab have come out in support of former state finance minister and BJP leader Manpreet Badal, who has been booked by the vigilance bureau in a plot allotment case. The BJP leaders have accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government of filing the case to divert attention from other issues. They also claim that the AAP government may target ex-Congress leaders who have recently joined the BJP in order to showcase their anti-corruption crusade.

Ludhiana: Taxi operators see drop in business
Ludhiana taxi operators face a 70% business drop due to travel cancellations, triggered by recent border tensions and the Pahalgam attack. Summer tourism to hill stations like Srinagar and Leh-Ladakh has been severely impacted, with 12,000 bookings cancelled.

AIP urges Centre to release Er Rashid
AIP calls for Er Rashid's release, arguing his leadership is crucial for Baramulla constituency during India-Pakistan tensions. The MP has historically supported border area residents during crises, and his presence could provide relief and democratic credibility.

Ludhiana: Liquor firm employee alleges assault by co-worker
A liquor company employee was allegedly assaulted and threatened at gunpoint by a co-worker and his aides outside a liquor vend in Ludhiana. Police registered a case and are searching for the accused, who fled after the incident.

Mehbooba, Mirwaiz call on India, Pak leaders for peace
Kashmir leaders Mehbooba Mufti and Mirwaiz Umar Farooq urge Indian and Pakistani leaders to de-escalate tensions, highlighting the suffering of J&K residents, particularly children and border communities, caught in the ongoing conflict.

Bengaluru to get fourth major rail hub as Devanahalli survey gets approval: Report
Bengaluru plans a fourth rail hub near Devanahalli to ease infrastructure congestion, with a survey approved to explore a new mega terminal. The project aims to redistribute train traffic and address capacity challenges in the rapidly growing city.

Ludhiana: Businessman threatened over dispute; 4 booked
Four businessmen face charges for allegedly threatening a supplier over unpaid materials, making threatening calls, and refusing payment. Police registered an FIR under specific sections, with no arrests made yet in the ongoing dispute.

Ludhiana: Two arrested for rape bid
Two intoxicated men attempted to rape a married woman in Ludhiana after forcibly entering her room. The victim raised an alarm, causing them to flee. Police arrested both accused and registered an FIR under relevant sections.

Ludhiana: Amid Pak tension, placement campaign sees low footfall
A placement drive in Ludhiana saw significantly reduced candidate turnout due to India-Pakistan tensions. Only 19 candidates appeared for 125 job vacancies, with just eight shortlisted, highlighting the impact of geopolitical uncertainty on employment opportunities.

People shift to shelters in Jammu as fear takes over
Amid cross-border tensions, thousands of Jammu residents are fleeing to government-established shelters, fearing attacks. About 8,000 people have moved to camps in Kathua, Samba, and Jammu districts, seeking safety from potential Pakistani missile and drone strikes.

Ludhiana: Nothing to panic, says admn as migrants flock to native places
Amid rising India-Pakistan tensions, thousands of migrant workers are fleeing Ludhiana for Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, causing concern for industries. Officials urge calm, emphasizing peaceful conditions and establishing a 24/7 helpline to support workers and businesses.

Ludhiana: Helpline in MP’s office threat to security, says SAD
SAD candidate Parupkar Singh Ghuman criticizes Rajya Sabha member Sanjeev Arora for establishing a helpline in his private office, claiming it threatens national security. He threatens legal action and plans to approach the Election Commission over potential sensitive information leakage.

Ludhiana: Drones, firecrackers banned; admn warns against hoarding
Ludhiana administration bans drones and firecrackers, warns against hoarding. DC Himanshu Jain ensures public safety, establishes control room, urges calm compliance with blackout guidelines and prohibits spreading misinformation.

Rajouri-Poonch: Agniveer among 2 killed as Pak shelling continues
Two people, including an Agniveer, were killed and five injured as Pakistan continued shelling in Jammu and Kashmir. This follows India's Operation Sindoor missile attack on terror targets. Ten houses were damaged in the cross-border conflict.

Security beefed up across Pune city amid tensions on India-Pakistan border
Heightened security measures implemented in Pune following India-Pakistan border tensions. Police intensify checks at religious sites, particularly Dagdusheth Ganpati Temple. Anti-riot squads deployed, vehicle checks increased, and public urged to remain calm and follow official advisories.

With wheat, U.P. to also collect 88L quintals of bhoosa
Uttar Pradesh launched a bhoosa (wheat straw) collection campaign to feed 13 lakh stray cattle. Targeting 88 lakh quintals of fodder, the state will procure through donations and purchases at Rs 850 per quintal, ensuring year-round sustenance.