26102025-JTR-01.qxd 10/25/2025 11:03 PM Page 1 c m y b Jalandhar tribune STATE GOVT INVESTS ~6 CRORE TO UPGRADE SCHOOLS IN PHAGWARA OVER 20% LABOUR LEAVES JALANDHAR AMID CHHATH PUJA SARABHAI VS SARABHAI ACTOR SATISH SHAH NO MORE Harji Mann said that the project at Sunnra Rajputan School involves an expenditure of Rs 2 lakh for laying the flooring. P2 Factory owners informed that 20-22 per cent of their labour force has left and are not expected back for at least a month. P3 Bollywood celebrities paid tribute to veteran actor Satish Shah who passed away on Saturday at the age of 74. P4 » » FORECAST PARTLY CLOUDY MAX 31°C | MIN 17°C YESTERDAY MAX 31°C | MIN 17°C SUNSET SUNDAY 5.41 PM SUNRISE MONDAY 6:32 AM » SUNDAY | 26 OCTOBER 2025 | JALANDHAR HEALTH & WELLNESS The Tribune is starting a Q and A column to address your health-related queries. Please mail your questions (not exceeding 40 words) at healthandwellness@tribunemail.com. The Tribune’s panel of doctors will answer all your healthrelated concerns. INBRIEF DRUG ADDICT ARRESTED Phagwara: The Bilga police have arrested a drug addict on the charge of consuming heroin. Investigating Officer (IO) Avtar Lal said that the accused has been identified as Mukesh Kumar, a resident of Talwann village. The IO said a case has been registered under sections 27, 61 and 85 of the NDPS Act against the accused. -- OC ILLEGAL SAND MINING CASE Phagwara: The Shahkot police have booked 20 persons for illegal sand mining. Investigating Officer (IO) Sukhwindar Singh said the accused have been identified as Paramjit, Mangi Pehalwan, Mangal Singh and Jarnail Singh, all residents of Chak Bahmannia village and their 16 unidentified accomplices. Assistant District Mining Officer Vijay Kumar complained to the police that the accused were involved in illegal sand mining from the panchayat land of Chak Bahamanni village. The IO said that a case under section 21 of the Punjab Mining Act and section 303(2) of the BNS has been registered against the accused. -- OC TWO BOOKED FOR BURNING STUBBLE Phagwara: The Shahkot police have booked two farmers on the charge of violating an order duly promulgated by a public servant by burning paddy stubble in their fields. SHO Balwindar Singh said that the alleged accused have been identified as Mukhtiar Singh, a resident of Chak Hathianna village and Bikramjit Singh, a resident of Rampur village. The SHO said that the officers concerned have sent their reports to the police which were verified. The SHO stated that the accused had set fire to their paddy stubble, violating a government order in this regard, and polluted the atmosphere. Cases under section 223 (disobedience to an order duly promulgated by a public servant) of the BNS have been registered against the accused. -- OC MAN ARRESTED FOR MINOR’S RAPE Phagwara: The Mehatpur police have arrested a Shahkot villager on charges of raping a minor and criminal conspiracy. Investigating officer Amrik Lal said that the accused has been identified as Jora War Singh, a resident of Sadikpur village under Shahkot police station. The IO said that a case under section 65(1) (rape on a woman under sixteen years), 61 (2)( criminal conspiracy), 127 (2) (wrongful confinement), 351 (2) (criminal intimidation) of the BNS and sections 6 and 17 of the POCSO Act has been registered against the accused and others.-- OC More FIRs against Phillaur SHO After sexual harassment case, cop faces heat under provisions of POCSO Act Indian-origin US citizen found dead Our Correspondent Aparna Banerji Tribune News Service Jalandhar, October 25 Days after his suspension and an FIR over allegations of sexual harassment against him by the mother of a rape victim, (former) SHO, Phillaur, Bhushan Kumar, has now been booked under the POCSO Act. At least two fresh FIRs in connection with sexual harassment have been registered against the SHO in the past two days — October 23 and 24. One of these (including charges under the PSOCO Act), is based on the original complaint of the mother and the second, on the complaint of another 22-year-old victim, who came to the fore after the first case came to light. In an FIR registered against him at the Phillaur police station on October 23, Bhushan Kumar has been booked under sections 10, 12 and 18 of the POCSO (Prevention of Children from Sexual Offences Act (Amended)), as well as section 62 (2) of the BNS. This USE OF OBSCENE, ABUSIVE LANGUAGE In the FIR registered under the POCSO Act, the mother of the rape victim alleged that the SHO repeatedly called her daughter and her to the police station, asked them to see him alone, and made obscene comments and gestures. As per the FIR, the girl's mother alleged that after her daughter's rape by alleged accused Roshan Lal on the night of August 23, 2025; she, her husband and daughter, visited the Phillaur police station on August 24 to register a complaint with the police where they met SHO Bhushan Kumar. He, after hearing them, sent the mother and father out of the room. She alleged that he then called them back and told them that no rape took place with their daughter. She alleged that on October 4 instant, she and former sarpanch Raj Kumar Hans took their daughter to the police station again, where the SHO allegedly used abusive FORMER PHILLAUR SHO BHARAT BHUSHAN and very offensive and threatening language. She alleged that she went to the police again on October 5, then the SHO took her daughter to a separate room and questioned her without the presence of a female police officer. Then he sent her out and called her (the mother) in, alone, closed the door and indulged in obscene behaviour with her. The mother also alleged that the SHO touched both her and her daughter inappropriately. — TNS FIR against the SHO has also been registered on the complaint of the minor girl's mother. The same woman was also the key complainant in the previous FIR registered against the SHO on October 14, Compensate flood-hit farmers in a week: DC Tribune News Service Jalandhar, October 25 Deputy Commissioner Dr Himanshu Aggarwal today directed officials to provide compensation to farmers for crop losses caused by recent floods within one week. Presiding over a meeting at the District Administrative Complex, the DC instructed the officials to ensure that farmers—especially those in the Shahkot area—who suffered crop losses due to floods, receive compensation within a week so that timely relief may be provided to them. Dr Aggarwal also reviewed the progress of the work being carried out in 115 villages of the district under the “Mera Ghar Mere Naam” scheme. Under the scheme, revenue officials (patwaris) are conducting door-to-door surveys in the identified villages to mark and identify houses falling within the “Lal Lakeer” (red line) boundary, so that the required process can be completed and ownership rights may be conferred upon eligible families. He directed the officials to ensure that the work is completed by November 3. Reviewing the progress of the Digital Crop Survey (online girdawari), the DC instructed the officials to accelerate the pace of work and complete it within five days. He informed that the digital crop survey is being conducted in around 600 villages of the district. He also appealed to farmers to cooperate with officials to ensure smooth and successful completion of the survey. under sections 75 (1) (sexual harassment) of the BNS, 67(D) of the Police Act and 67 of the IT Act, at the Phillaur police station. In the wake of complaints, the SHO had also been transferred and suspended. Meanwhile, a third FIR has been registered against the SHO at the Phillaur police station on Friday (October 24) at 7.35 pm, wherein a 22-year-old victim claimed that he sexually harassed her and made obscene conversation with her on the pretext of a case. The FIR has been registered under sections 75 (2) of the BNS and section 67 of the IT Act. The action came days after various audio/video of alleged conversation of the SHO with the victim's mother had gone viral and a relentless people-led campaign against the SHO began by Phillaur-based civil society groups. The Punjab State Women's Commission also took cognisance of the issue resulting in a subsequent inquiry into the matter. Speaking to The Tribune, DSP , Phillaur, Sarwan Singh Bal said, "Disciplinary action has already been taken against the SHO and the fresh FIR has been registered under the POCSO Act. A report in the matter, submitted by the SIT constituted on the issue, has also been sent to the SSP Another complaint . against the SHO, based on allegations from another woman, is also under investigation." Phagwara, October 25 An Indian-origin US citizen, admitted to a private de-addiction centre near Kapurthala, reportedly died under suspicious circumstances on Saturday morning. The deceased has been identified as Amarvir Singh, a resident of Ajit Nagar, Kapurthala. According to family members, they received a call from the management of a de-addiction centre located in village Pattar Kalan, informing them that Amarvir was unresponsive. The family rushed him to Civil Hospital, Kapurthala, where Dr Yogita, the Emergency Medical Officer, declared him brought dead. When contacted, Civil Surgeon Dr Sanjeev Bhagat told The Tribune this evening that Senior Medical Officer (SMO) Dr Parminder Kaur informed him and he had instructed the SMO to formally inform the district administration as per protocol in case of the death of a foreign national. Dr Bhagat said a board of doctors will conduct a post-mortem. A DEADDICTION CENTRE videography of the process would be done. Family sources said Amarvir had returned from the USA about a month ago and was admitted to the centre just three days earlier for treatment of substance addiction. Unconfirmed reports suggest there were injury marks around the neck of the deceased, raising suspicion about the cause of death. Following the incident, DSP Kartarpur, Narinder , Singh Aujla visited the spot and initiated an investigation. “The matter is being probed, and further action will be taken based on the findings,” the officer said. Meanwhile, Dr Jaswinder, Deputy Medical Commissioner (DMC), Jalandhar, stated that the centre in question was operating without proper authorisation. “We are verifying its status. If found unregistered, strict action will be taken against those running it,” he said. The body has been sent for post-mortem to ascertain the cause of death. Park renamed after bodybuilder Ghumman Tribune News Service Jalandhar, October 25 In a tribute to worldrenowned bodybuilder Varinder Singh Ghumman, a park in Old Baradari in front of the residences of Deputy Commissioner and Commissioner of Police, Jalandhar, was officially renamed the "Varinder Singh Ghumman Park" on Saturday. The renaming ceremony was part of Aam Aadmi Party's halqa in-charge Nitin Kohli's 'Fit Central' initiative, aimed at promoting fitness and sports culture across Jalandhar. The inaugural ceremony was attended by Nitin Kohli, Mayor Vineet Dhir and other AAP leaders, along with Varinder Singh Ghumman's three children, who personally unveiled the plaque, dedicating the park The Old Baradari park renamed after Varinder Singh Ghumman was inaugurated by his children on Saturday. TRIBUNE PHOTO to the legendary bodybuilder. The family expressed gratitude to Nitin Kohli for the tribute, calling it an "inspirational step that will keep Ghumman's legacy alive for generations". Speaking on the occasion, Nitin Kohli said the initiative was not just about creating sports facilities but about building a culture of fitness and discipline in everyday life. "Varinder Singh Ghum- man inspired countless youth through his hard work and determination. This park will remind every visitor of what dedication and perseverance can achieve," he said. As part of the 'Fit Central' campaign, newly developed volleyball and badminton courts were inaugurated in the park. Kohli emphasised that similar projects were being developed across Jalandhar Central, including open gyms, running tracks and children's play zones. "Only when citizens are fit can our society and nation truly be strong," he said, adding that development works worth Rs 20 crore had already been completed at 31 locations, with continued public support driving the momentum. Mayor Vineet Dhir lauded the initiative, saying, "Along with infrastructure and civic development, we are equally committed to building a culture of fitness. Jalandhar will not only be known for its industry and education, but also as a city that promotes health, happiness and activity." Local residents and sports enthusiasts, who attended the ceremony praised the effort, saying it was a fitting way to honour a man who brought international recognition to India and Punjab through bodybuilding. "This park will inspire the youth to pursue fitness with the same dedication that Ghumman showed throughout his life," said a group of attendees. The ceremony concluded with a two-minute silence in memory of the bodybuilder, whose contribution to Indian sports continues to motivate aspiring athletes. Acting is like studies, you never stop House falls victim to Beas learning, actor Shehnaaz tells students river’s changing course Our Correspondent Phagwara, October 25 Distinguished alumna and Bollywood actress Shehnaaz Gill returned to her alma mater Lovely Professional University (LPU) to inaugurate the university’s annual fest, ‘Magnitude 2025’. Shehnaaz was welcomed by the university leadership, including Dr Ashok Kumar Mittal, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Founder Chancellor and Col Dr Rashmi Mittal, Pro-Chancellor, in celebrating her journey from a dedicated student to a national star. Overwhelmed by memories, Shehnaaz shared, “The moment I entered LPU, I kept showing my team my hostel, the mall, the hospital and especially block 14 where I attended my BCom classes. It was a wave of nostalgia.” Shehnaaz Gill performs with LPU students in Jalandhar. She fondly recalled participating in LPU’s Youth Vibe Festival: “I remember wanting to perform so badly and when I finally did during the final stage, the host asked who should win and the entire crowd shouted ‘Shehnaaz’. That moment is still inked in my heart.” Gill also revealed that her first professional break came c m y b at LPU. “While participating in an event, one of the judges offered me a music video and that’s where my journey began. I’ve never looked back since,” she said. During her visit, Shehnaaz spoke about her upcoming movie, Ikk Kudi, which revolves around the theme of marriage and carries a strong message for young women. “It’s a story very close to my heart. It emphasises how important it is for every girl to be sure about her partner before marriage, to ensure her life will be one of respect and happiness,” she added. Gill drew parallels between acting and academics. “Acting is like a study. You can’t stop learning. You have to be an avid learner, constantly observing people and honing your craft. It’s a field that demands continuous dedication,” she said. Ashok Kaura Phagwara, October 25 The floodwaters may have receded and the administration is now busy assessing crop compensation, but the Beas river's changing course continues to wreak havoc. This time, its fury has struck the home of Milkha Singh, whose house is being slowly swallowed by the river. Inside, a family of 12 lives in constant fear, watching as the walls of their hard-earned home begins to crumble. Built just three years ago through their own toil, the family now faces the heartbreaking task of tearing it down themselves. In this moment of distress, Rajya Sabha member Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal personally visited the family to offer reassurance and support. Due to the altered flow Seechewal has sought aid. of the Beas river, large parts of Rampura Gauhra village in the Baupur Mand area have been devastated. Nearly 10 houses have been completely uprooted, while another five have developed deep cracks. Despite all efforts to protect their home from the river's assault, Milkha Singh's family has now begun salvaging what they can. Doors, windows and wooden frames have been dismantled, and belongings are being moved to safety using tractors and boats. An elderly woman in the family said they had built the house only three years ago. "We can accept the loss of our land to the river," she said tearfully, "but watching our children's home being destroyed is unbearable." The family is now relocating their possessions to Lakh Waria village, about two kilometers away, where their old ancestral house still stands. Witnessing the destruction along the river bank, Sant Seechewal said he would take up the matter with senior officials to ensure that every possible form of government aid reaches the family. He also appealed to generous individuals and organisations to come forward and help. The flood has already destroyed the family's 18 acres of farmland and their entire paddy crop, leaving them in dire need of assistance.