Amritsar

A shocking incident unfolded in Amritsar as an Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) sarpanch was shot dead during a wedding function, highlighting growing concerns over political violence at the local level. The attack has sparked widespread outrage and calls for immediate investigation into security lapses and the motives behind the murder. Law enforcement agencies have cordoned off the area, launched a manhunt for the perpetrators, and initiated forensic analysis to reconstruct the sequence of events.

In a landmark decision, a formal resolution has officially declared Anandpur Sahib, Talwandi Sabo, and the Galiara area surrounding the Golden Temple as holy cities, recognizing their profound religious and cultural significance in Sikhism. The move aims to preserve sacred sites, promote religious tourism, and ensure structured development that respects spiritual traditions. Authorities are expected to implement measures safeguarding these areas, including heritage conservation, infrastructure upgrades, and regulated commercial activity.

The Punjab government has suspended Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Maninder Singh of Amritsar Rural, citing “dereliction of duty” in addressing the rising tide of organized crime. Intelligence reports and internal reviews pointed to delays in investigation and insufficient ground-level action against gangsters. Maninder Singh, a 2019-batch IPS officer, has previously served in key postings, including as ACP in Amritsar City and SP in Tarn Taran.

A coach of the Amritsar-Saharsa Garib Rath Express caught fire in Punjab on Friday, prompting swift action from railway staff and local authorities. The incident, which occurred while the train was en route, was contained quickly, and no casualties were reported. Passengers were safely evacuated, and the affected coach sustained significant damage. Early investigations suggest a technical fault may have triggered the blaze. The railway authorities have assured commuters that safety protocols were effectively implemented and that operations are being restored.

The Golden Temple in Amritsar lit up in a spectacular display of fireworks and elaborate decorations to mark Shri Guru Ramdas Ji Gurpurab 2025. Devotees from across India and abroad thronged the sacred site, participating in prayers, kirtans, and ceremonial rituals. Authorities ensured smooth management of the massive crowds while maintaining security and hygiene protocols. The festival not only celebrated the spiritual legacy of Shri Guru Ramdas Ji but also underscored the cultural and economic significance of religious tourism in Punjab.

The recent floods in Punjab have left behind a trail of devastation, disrupting lives, agriculture, and local economies. On Monday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi visited Amritsar to survey the damage and interact with affected communities. His visit aimed to highlight the hardships faced by residents and farmers, while also pressing for swift government intervention to mitigate losses.

Authorities in Amritsar have intensified security measures at the revered Golden Temple after an alarming email threatened to bomb the Langar Hall, the facility that serves free meals to thousands daily. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), which manages the temple, promptly alerted law enforcement. In response, Punjab Police deployed additional forces, including bomb detection squads and sniffer dogs, to safeguard the complex. While devotees continue to arrive in large numbers, officials have assured that all precautions are in place to prevent any untoward incident.

In a historic shift during the 41st anniversary of Operation Blue Star, the acting Jathedar of the Akal Takht, Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, chose not to deliver the traditional public message to the Sikh community. Instead, he conveyed his message through a solemn prayer inside the Golden Temple complex. This decision came amidst strong opposition from several Sikh organisations, particularly the Damdami Taksal and its chief, Harnam Singh Dhumma, who questioned Mr. Gargaj’s legitimacy and demanded he abstain from any address.

The fatal shooting of Shiromani Akali Dal Councillor Harjinder Singh Bahman in Amritsar has reignited concerns about the deteriorating law and order situation in Punjab. Bahman was gunned down in broad daylight by assailants on a motorcycle, despite previous threats and a documented attack on his residence. The brazen killing has provoked widespread condemnation from political leaders, with critics accusing the state administration of negligence.

In a rare and symbolic moment, Sri Harmandir Sahib—popularly known as the Golden Temple—plunged into darkness as part of a nationwide blackout drill conducted under the directive of the Ministry of Home Affairs. This exercise, held amid escalating tensions along the India-Pakistan border, is part of a wider security preparedness strategy in response to recent aerial threats.