kapurthala

Violence and arson erupted in kapurthala Central Jail late Saturday night following a minor altercation between inmates. Unverified videos show inmates on rooftops claiming they were thrashed and shot at, with one reportedly suffering a bullet injury. Authorities stated tear gas was used and the situation was under control.

Punjab's ruling AAP secured a significant victory in municipal polls, winning 5 out of 8 municipal corporations and over 950 wards. This win, with assembly elections approaching, is attributed by CM Bhagwant Mann to the government's welfare schemes. Congress and SAD trailed significantly, while independents emerged as a notable force.

An RTI activist, Simranjit Singh, known for his court cases on controversial matters, was tragically shot dead near a private university in Phagwara. Despite government-provided police protection, he left home unarmed. Authorities swiftly apprehended his cousin, Sharnjit Singh, attributing the motive to a financial dispute. The victim was shot twice from behind at close range.

A Pathankot resident, Baljit Singh, has been arrested for allegedly spying for Pakistan-based handlers. He reportedly installed an internet-based CCTV camera near a bridge on NH-44 to monitor Army and paramilitary movements, transmitting live feeds to his handlers. Singh confessed to receiving directions from Dubai and being paid Rs 40,000.

Jalandhar-based RTI activist Simranjit Singh was shot dead near Lovely Professional University, Phagwara. Two bullets struck his head at close range, with a .32 bore pistol found nearby and a 12 bore rifle in his vehicle. Police are reviewing CCTV footage to identify the accused.

Punjab gears up for polling in 103 urban local bodies today, featuring 7,555 candidates vying for 1,896 wards. Eight municipal corporations, 75 municipal councils, and 20 nagar panchayats are part of this extensive electoral exercise. Over 35 lakh voters will cast their ballots, with counting scheduled for May 29.

Aam Aadmi Party secured a significant victory in Punjab's urban local body elections, prompting AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal to declare the "ED party" (BJP) wiped out. Kejriwal accused the BJP of harassing traders, stating people had taken revenge.