Punjab govt says Nangal Dam police deployment linked to India-Pak tension
Chandigarh: The Aam Aadmi Party govt in Punjab, which had on May 1 stationed a large police force under a DIG-rank official to take control of the Nangal Dam and its control room amid the water release impasse with Haryana, on Monday, explained it as a safeguard due to heightened India-Pakistan tensions following the Pahalgam terror incident.
Information regarding Punjab's latest stand on the deployment of security was provided to the Punjab and Haryana high court by the counsel representing the
Bhakra Beas Management Board
(BBMB). The board's counsel placed on record an email before the bench in which Punjab clarified that the security was deployed in view of tension with the neighbouring country. However, the counsel told the HC that BBMB had got no such advisory from the Centre.
The matter came up for hearing before the division bench of Justice Sheel Nagu and Justice Sumeet Goel on Monday in the wake of a petition filed by BBMB and two PILs filed by advocate Ravinder Singh Dhull and a village panchayat from Fatehabad in Haryana. After hearing the matter at length, the HC fixed the matter for 3pm on Tuesday for further hearing. The Punjab govt has also been asked to file an affidavit on the entire issue.
BBMB approached the HC against the "forcible" takeover of the board's operations by the Punjab govt with the help of the police force. According to the board, the action of the Punjab govt is a direct infringement/interference in the statutory functioning of the board, which performs sovereign functions, and the state's action would lead to anarchy and lawlessness by the state itself. The board has sought directions to the Punjab govt to remove its police force deployed without any authority of law to forcibly take over the overall control of the operation and regulation of the Nangal Dam and Lohand Control Room water regulation offices.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Her Outfit Caught Everyone's Eye The Stadium
True Edition
Undo
The HC was informed that BBMB has been consistently persuading the Punjab govt to desist from impeding the implementation of the board's decision and not to indulge in extra-legal actions in preventing the flow of water as decided in the board meeting. However, Punjab persisted in using force against statutory provisions for implementing a collective decision taken in accordance with the provisions of the Act and Rules.
When the matter came up for hearing, counsel representing BBMB informed that additional water was released to Haryana for further distribution to Rajasthan in view of the scarcity of drinking water. Regarding Punjab's plea of security due to Indo-Pak tension, the board said that paramilitary forces are deployed for that. The board also said that its officers are not permitted to operate the dam.
The counsel for Haryana informed that seven districts in Haryana have been facing a huge scarcity of water and around 2700 water works in Haryana have dried up. However, Punjab govt counsel submitted that it was not an issue of drinking water, but that Haryana has been given excess water for paddy sowing. Punjab's counsel also informed that in the agenda for the April 23 meeting, it was clearly mentioned that Haryana and Rajasthan have already utilised their quota or share of water.
"Punjab is not backing out of its commitment to sharing water as per the agreed terms for which it had no objection in releasing 4000 cusecs of water to Haryana, but it will not give a single drop other than this. Haryana has miserably failed to utilise its share," counsel for Punjab told the HC.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hans India
an hour ago
- Hans India
Supreme Court Rejects Military Service Defense In Two-Decade-Old Dowry Death Case
India's Supreme Court delivered a firm ruling on Tuesday, rejecting a military commando's attempt to avoid surrendering in connection with his wife's death from two decades ago. The case highlighted the court's position that military service, regardless of its nature or distinction, cannot serve as a shield against accountability for domestic violence. The petitioner, identified as a Black Cat Commando with extensive military credentials, had approached the apex court seeking exemption from surrender requirements in the dowry death case dating back 20 years. His legal team argued that his participation in significant military operations, particularly Operation Sindoor, warranted special consideration from the judicial system. During the proceedings, the commando's legal counsel emphasized his client's distinguished service record, noting his two-decade tenure with the Rashtriya Rifles, an elite counter-insurgency force. The defense strategy appeared to center on the argument that his military contributions, including involvement in recent cross-border operations, merited judicial leniency. The counsel specifically highlighted the commando's participation in Operation Sindoor, the recent military action that garnered significant national attention. The legal representative presented this service record as grounds for exemption, suggesting that such distinguished military service should influence the court's decision regarding the criminal proceedings. However, the Supreme Court bench remained unmoved by these arguments, expressing clear disinclination to grant any form of exemption based on military service. The justices demonstrated that the law applies equally to all citizens, regardless of their professional achievements or contributions to national security. Justice Bhuyan, speaking for the bench, delivered particularly pointed observations that underscored the court's reasoning. The justice noted that military service, rather than providing immunity, actually highlighted the accused's physical capabilities and training, which could have been misused in domestic situations. The court's response specifically addressed the apparent contradiction between the accused's professional role as a protector and the allegations of domestic violence. Justice Bhuyan observed that the commando's physical fitness and training, demonstrated through his military service, actually supported the prosecution's case regarding how the alleged crime could have been committed. The judicial reasoning emphasized that military training and physical prowess, while valuable for national service, could potentially be misused in domestic contexts. The court suggested that the very qualities that made the accused an effective military operative might have enabled the alleged criminal acts. The case represents a significant judicial statement about the principle of equality before the law. The Supreme Court's ruling reinforces that professional achievements, military honors, or national service cannot excuse or mitigate criminal behavior, particularly in cases involving domestic violence and women's safety. The dowry death case, spanning two decades, reflects the ongoing challenges in India's justice system regarding delayed proceedings in domestic violence cases. The length of time between the alleged incident and the current legal proceedings highlights systemic issues in handling such sensitive cases. The court's firm stance sends a clear message about the judiciary's commitment to addressing domestic violence cases without regard to the accused's social or professional status. This approach aligns with broader judicial trends emphasizing women's rights and the serious nature of dowry-related crimes. The ruling also addresses broader questions about military personnel's accountability for civilian crimes. While military service is respected and valued, the court's decision establishes that such service cannot create parallel legal standards or exemptions from civilian criminal law. The case conclusion requires the accused to surrender as originally mandated, demonstrating the court's unwillingness to create exceptions based on military service records. This decision reinforces the principle that justice must be served regardless of an individual's professional background or contributions to national security. The Supreme Court's handling of this case contributes to legal precedent regarding how courts should balance respect for military service with the imperative of addressing domestic violence and ensuring justice for victims of such crimes.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Bombs, bluffs, and blame game: How US took centrestage in Iran-Israel conflict; '12-day war' recap
Photo/Agencies US President Donald Trump on Monday declared a 'complete and total ceasefire' between Israel and Iran, signaling what he called the likely end of the 12-day conflict that drew in the United States and rattled the region. The announcement followed intense escalations, including US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and Iran's retaliatory missile launch at an American base in Qatar. Trump's declaration came even as hostilities persisted on the ground, with both sides continuing to exchange fire beyond the ceasefire deadline. While both Israel and Iran formally agreed to the ceasefire proposed by Washington, the situation remained unstable. Iran launched a final wave of missile strikes early Tuesday, killing at least four people in Israel. Israel also carried out pre-dawn airstrikes across Iranian territory. The Israeli military later accused Iran of violating the truce, prompting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to authorise further action. Iran denied the allegation, but missile sirens and explosions were reported in parts of northern Israel throughout the day. As Trump's ceasefire declaration has yet to fully translate into calm on the ground, here's a look at the conflict which began with a surprise Israeli strike on Iran's nuclear and military infrastructure, quickly spiralled into a regional confrontation involving missile barrages, drone attacks, and the eventual entry of the United States with direct airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Over the course of nearly two weeks, key military and scientific figures were killed, major cities came under fire, and nuclear facilities were targeted. Israel claimed its operation had severely degraded Iran's nuclear programme, while Iran vowed retribution and responded with missile attacks, including one targeting a US base in Qatar. Trump: Ceasefire 'fully agreed to' between Israel and Iran Key developments from the 12-day conflict: 1. Israel strikes Iran On Friday, June 13, Israel launched a large-scale attack on Iran's nuclear and military sites. Warplanes and drones, previously smuggled into Iran, were used to hit various facilities. The strikes also killed several high-ranking Iranian officials, including Gen. Mohammad Bagheri (chief of Iran's armed forces), Gen. Hossein Salami (commander of the Revolutionary Guard), and Gen. Amir Ali Hajizadeh (head of the Guard's missile program). Iran confirmed the deaths of all three. In response, Iran launched numerous ballistic missiles at Israel on Friday night. Explosions were reported in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said in a recorded message, 'We will not allow them to escape safely from this great crime they committed,' and promised retaliation. On Thursday, one day before the Israeli attack, the Board of Governors at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) formally censured Iran for not cooperating with its inspectors. This was the first censure of its kind in 20 years. Following the censure, Iran announced it would set up a third uranium enrichment site and replace some centrifuges with more advanced ones. 2. Netanyahu 's calls on Iranians to unite against 'evil and oppressive regime' Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the people of Iran in a video message on Friday. He urged them to rise against their government, saying, 'The time has come for the Iranian people to unite around its flag and its historic legacy, by standing up for your freedom from the evil and oppressive regime.' Netanyahu said, 'We are in the midst of one of the greatest military operations in history, Operation Rising Lion.' He added, 'As we achieve our objective, we are also clearing the path for you to achieve your freedom.' 'Our fight is against the murderous Islamic regime that oppresses and impoverishes you,' Netanyahu said. 'This is your opportunity to stand up and let your voices be heard.' Iran described the Israeli attacks as 'a declaration of war' and said it would retaliate. It began by launching about 100 drones toward Israel. Many of these were intercepted. Iran followed up with several missile strikes that caused damage and injured at least seven people, according to emergency responders. 3. Trump urges Iran to negotiate President Trump called on Iran to enter into negotiations over its nuclear program. He described the moment as a possible 'second chance' for Iran's leaders to avoid more damage. He said, "before there is nothing left and save what was once known as the Iranian Empire." 4. Trump vetoed Israeli plan to kill Iran's supreme leader US President Donald Trump rejected a proposal from Israel to assassinate Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, news agencies Reuters and AP reported on June 15, quoting officials. The official said that Israeli authorities recently informed the Trump administration that they had a credible plan to carry out the operation. After reviewing the details, the White House conveyed to Israeli officials that President Trump was against proceeding with the plan, news agency AP reported. 5. Israel strikes state-run Iranian TV, Netanyahu claims Israeli strikes have set Iran's nuclear program back a 'very, very long time' Israel targeted Iran's state-run television station on June 16 during a live broadcast, causing an explosion that forced the on-air reporter to flee. The strike came after Iran launched another round of missiles toward Israel, which killed at least eight people. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, meanwhile, claimed the strikes had pushed back Iran's nuclear program by a "very, very long time." While he spoke, multiple explosions were heard in Tehran. Before hitting the television station, Israel warned hundreds of thousands of people in central Tehran to evacuate. The Israeli military stated that the TV station was being used to conceal Iranian military operations. The warning came on the fourth day of fighting, with the Israeli military claiming it had gained air superiority over Tehran and could fly over the city without facing significant threats. 6. Trump urges Iran's unconditional surrender, Israel kills Ali Shadmani President Donald Trump said on June 17 that the US knows where Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is hiding but doesn't want him killed 'for now.' He urged, in a social media post on Tuesday, Iran's 'UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER' as the Israel-Iran conflict continued to escalate. Moreover, the Israeli military announced also announced on June 17 that it had killed Iran's top military commander, Ali Shadmani, in an overnight airstrike. The military described him as the closest figure to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on Wednesday, June 18, rejected US calls for surrender and warned that any American military involvement would lead to 'irreparable damage.' 7. Israel strikes Iran's Arak nuclear facility, Iran rain missiles On June 19, Israel's defense minister issued a direct warning to Iran's supreme leader after Iranian missiles struck a major hospital in southern Israel and damaged residential areas near Tel Aviv, injuring at least 240 people. In response, Israeli fighter jets launched fresh strikes targeting Iran's nuclear infrastructure. In Washington, the White House said US President Donald Trump would decide within "two weeks" whether the US would join Israel's military campaign against Iran's nuclear and military assets. US press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters, quoting Trump, "Based on the fact that there's a substantial chance of negotiations that may or may not take place with Iran in the near future, I will make my decision whether or not to go within the next two weeks. " The Israeli military confirmed it had targeted Iran's Arak heavy water reactor, located about 250 kilometers southwest of Tehran, aiming to prevent its use for plutonium production. Iranian state TV reported that the facility had been evacuated ahead of the strike and stated there was 'no radiation danger whatsoever.' 8. Israel, Iran hit each other to mark one week into their war Marking one week since the conflict began, Israel and Iran continued exchanging fire on Friday, June 20, as US President Donald Trump considered potential American military involvement and diplomatic talks appeared to be emerging. Trump was reportedly weighing a strike on Iran's Fordoo uranium enrichment facility, news agency AP reported, which is heavily fortified and located underground. The site, known to be protected against most conventional attacks, with only advanced US 'bunker-buster' bombs believed capable of targeting it effectively. Meanwhile, Israel said its air force carried out strikes overnight using more than 60 aircraft targeting Iranian industrial sites related to missile production. Among the targets was the headquarters of Iran's Organisation of Defensive Innovation and Research (SPND). In southern Israel, missile impacts damaged buildings, including a six-story structure. Paramedics treated five individuals for minor injuries, including bruises, smoke inhalation, and anxiety, according to Magen David Adom. 9. US moves B-2 bombers Several US Air Force B-2 bombers, capable of carrying 30,000-pound bunker-buster bombs, took off from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri and were seen heading across the Pacific on May 21, the New York Times reported. In response, Houthi rebels in Yemen, backed by Iran, warned they would resume attacks on US ships and warships in the Red Sea if America enters the conflict. 'In the event of the American involvement in the attack and aggression against Iran with the Israeli enemy, the armed forces will target its ships and warships in the Red Sea,' said Houthi spokesman, as cited by the news agency AP. Israel's foreign minister Gideon Saar said Israeli strikes have delayed Iran's nuclear weapon potential by at least two to three years. Meanwhile, in Geneva, Iranian deputy foreign minister Abbas Araghchi met diplomats from Britain, France, and Germany and said Iran is open to resuming nuclear talks if attacks stop. He stated that Tehran supports continued dialogue with the European countries and is willing 'to meet again in the near future. ' 10. US bombs Iran's nuclear sites, Trump hints at regime change The United States directly entered the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran by launching airstrikes on three of Iran's major nuclear sites on Sunday, June 22, in what it called 'Operation Midnight Hammer.' US President Donald Trump said the targets were 'completely and fully obliterated' and warned of further strikes if Iran chose to retaliate. Iran strongly condemned the US action, calling it a major escalation. Foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said Washington had 'crossed a very big red line' and declared the US 'solely and fully responsible' for the consequences. He announced plans to travel to Moscow for urgent consultations with Russia, Iran's key ally. Donald Trump also hinted Sunday at interest in regime change in Iran, despite several of his administration officials earlier stressing that US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites did not have that goal. "It's not politically correct to use the term, 'Regime Change,' but if the current Iranian Regime is unable to MAKE IRAN GREAT AGAIN, why wouldn't there be a Regime change??? MIGA!!!" Trump posted on his Truth Social platform. On June 23, Russia said it is ready to assist Iran based on Tehran's needs, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Monday. "Everything depends on what Iran needs," Peskov said, adding that Russia has already offered its mediation efforts. Peskov also noted that Russia's public stance on the Iran-Israel conflict should be seen as a significant form of support. 'We have stated our position. This is also a very important manifestation, a form of support for the Iranian side,' he said. Russian President Vladimir Putin also slammed attacks on Iran as "unprovoked" and "unjustified" in a meeting with Tehran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi. 11. Iran attacks US airbase in Qatar Iran launched a retaliatory missile strike targeting the US Al Udeid military base in Qatar, the largest American base in the Middle East. Qatar said it intercepted the attack, calling it a 'flagrant violation' of its sovereignty and warned that it reserves the right to respond. No casualties were reported at the base, according to a U.S. official. President Donald Trump dismissed the strike as 'very weak,' saying Iran gave early notice, which allowed precautions to be taken. 'Perhaps Iran can now proceed to Peace and Harmony in the Region, and I will enthusiastically encourage Israel to do the same,' Trump wrote on Truth Social. 12. Trump announces end to '12-day war', Iran-Israel agree but continue strikes US President Donald Trump on Monday declared that the "12-day war" between Israel and Iran was coming to an end, announcing a 'complete and total ceasefire' between the two sides. 'It has been fully agreed by and between Israel and Iran that there will be a Complete and Total CEASEFIRE,' Trump posted on social media. Both Israel and Iran also publicly accepted the ceasefire proposal put forward by Washington. The breakthrough came after Iran fired a limited barrage of missiles at a US base in Qatar and Israel responded with widespread airstrikes on targets across Iran. However, despite their stated acceptance of the truce, both sides continued military action beyond the proposed ceasefire deadline. Iran fired a final wave of missiles into Israel early Tuesday, killing at least four people, while Israel launched retaliatory airstrikes before dawn. Later in the day, Israel accused Iran of breaching the truce by continuing missile launches, prompting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to order further retaliation. Iran's military denied launching any strikes after the ceasefire was to take effect, though air raid sirens and explosions were reported in northern Israel throughout the morning.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
China on cusp of seeing over 100 DeepSeeks, ex-top official says
China's advantages in developing artificial intelligence are about to unleash a wave of innovation that will generate more than 100 DeepSeek-like breakthroughs in the coming 18 months, according to a former top official. The new software products 'will fundamentally change the nature and the tech nature of the whole Chinese economy,' Zhu Min , who was previously a deputy governor of the People's Bank of China, said during the World Economic Forum in Tianjin on Tuesday. Zhu, who also served as the deputy managing director at the International Monetary Fund, sees a transformation made possible by harnessing China's pool of engineers, massive consumer base and supportive government policies. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like The Cul-de-Sac Is Dead. Here's Why This Aussie Favourite Has Hit a Dead End RAC WA Read More The bullish take on China's AI future promises no letup in the competition for dominance in cutting-edge technologies with the US, just as the world's two biggest economies are also locked in a trade war. The US sees China as a key rival in the field of AI, especially after DeepSeek shocked the global tech industry in January with its low-cost but powerful model. In addition to efforts to prevent China from securing advanced semiconductor manufacturing equipment, Washington is blocking Chinese companies from acquiring Nvidia Corp.'s high-end AI chips for training, citing national security concerns. Beijing is now pinning its hopes on domestic tech giants like Huawei Technologies Co. when it comes to advanced chipmaking. Live Events The emergence of DeepSeek triggered a rally in China's tech stocks, fueling optimism over Chinese competitiveness despite tensions over trade with the Trump administration and economic challenges at home. Discover the stories of your interest Blockchain 5 Stories Cyber-safety 7 Stories Fintech 9 Stories E-comm 9 Stories ML 8 Stories Edtech 6 Stories Bloomberg Economics estimates the contribution of high-tech to China's gross domestic product climbed to about 15% in 2024 — from near 14% a year earlier — and could exceed 18% in 2026. Bloomberg The World Economic Forum's annual meeting in Tianjin, also known as 'Summer Davos,' has attracted global business executives and world leaders. Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh are scheduled to speak at the three-day event. Chinese Premier Li Qiang is expected to address the conference during the opening plenary on Wednesday and meet with participants. Despite a tariff truce negotiated a month ago with the US, American levies are still at high levels, with a more lasting deal still in question. Analysts polled by Bloomberg forecast GDP growth will slip to 4.5% this year, significantly below the official target of around 5%. It expanded 5.4% in the first quarter. 'The uncertainty brought by US tariff policy is an important factor that may lead to negative growth in global trade this year,' Zhu told reporters on the sidelines of the forum. 'The entire trade industrial chain has begun to slow, investments has begun to stop, so the impact is greater than the actual tariff rate.' Zhu said the US will likely see inflation pick up starting in August, as it takes some time for tariffs to feed through to the economy and for companies to use up stockpiles they accumulated before Trump hiked duties. Bloomberg Despite shocks from abroad, China's GDP likely grew faster than 5% in the second quarter, according to Huang Yiping, a member of the Chinese central bank's monetary policy committee. Speaking on another panel at the Tianjin forum, he pointed to the economy's solid performance in April and May. But despite unexpectedly strong retail sales in May, when they grew at the fastest pace since December 2023, Huang said China still needs to address the issue of insufficient consumption. 'Boosting consumption is still a big challenge, partly because the global external market is less open as before,' said Huang, who's also dean of the National School of Development at Peking University. Bloomberg 'For a large country, you can't continuously export your excess capacity,' Huang said. 'That's why I think the policy priority now is to first focus on domestic circulation.'
