Daily News
Sikh Pilgrims Visit to Pakistan: A Positive Step Welcomed
Recently, in Amritsar, a meeting was held at the Folklore Research Academy.
In Amritsar, a significant meeting was held at the Folklore Research Academy to celebrate a major decision, Sikh Pilgrims visit to Pakistan for a sacred religious journey. The event, organized by the Folklore Research Academy, Pragatisheel Lekhak Manch, and Majha Virasat Trust, brought together artists, scholars, and writers. They expressed gratitude to the Central Government for granting permission for Sikh devotees to visit Pakistan and pay respects at Gurdwara Sri Nankana Sahib on the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first Sikh Guru.
During the gathering, Ramesh Yadav, president of the Folklore Research Academy, discussed the current state of India-Pakistan relations. He noted that ties have remained strained, particularly after Operation Sindoor, which halted people’s movement and trade between the two nations. Despite this tension, the permission for pilgrimage represents a rare and hopeful gesture of goodwill.
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) is playing an important role by arranging travel and accommodations for pilgrims. They will guide devotees to cross the Attari-Wagah border and visit Nankana Sahib and other historical gurdwaras in Pakistan. The birth anniversary of Guru Nanak holds deep spiritual meaning. And thousands of Sikhs consider visiting his birthplace a lifelong dream.
Furthermore, participants at the meeting urged the government to open a corridor from Dera Baba Nanak to Sri Kartarpur Sahib, the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. This would make it easier for devotees to visit the shrine and strengthen spiritual and cultural ties. Many Sikhs have long waited for direct access to Kartarpur Sahib. And they believe it would mark a new chapter in religious freedom and people-to-people contact.
Yadav also highlighted the importance of reciprocity. He suggested that just as Indian Sikhs visit holy sites in Pakistan, Pakistani Hindus should have easy access to sacred places like Katasraj Temple in India. This exchange, he said, would help both communities build trust and respect for each other’s faiths.
Despite ongoing political issues, organizations like the Folklore Research Academy continue to promote peace and cultural understanding. Every August, they host the Hind-Pak Dosti Manch, an event focused on friendship, cultural exchange, and shared heritage. Such initiatives show that people from both countries want closer ties, even when governments disagree.
The historical context adds depth to this development. Since partition in 1947, India and Pakistan have faced conflicts, wars, and border tensions. Operation Sindoor, aimed at addressing security concerns, only deepened the divide. Yet, religious and cultural bonds remain strong, offering a path to healing and cooperation. The renewed call for opening the Kartarpur corridor and allowing cross-border pilgrimages reflects a shared desire for peace and understanding.
In conclusion, the Central Government’s decision has brought immense joy to the Sikh community. It is not only a spiritual milestone but also a diplomatic opportunity to improve relations. The hope is that Sikh Pilgrims visit to Pakistanwill pave the way for more people-to-people interactions, stronger cultural ties, and lasting friendship between the two nations.
Daily News
Sanitation Workers in Amritsar Go on Hunger Strike for Job Rights
In Amritsar, a group of sanitation workers has started a hunger strike.
A major protest is underway as sanitation workers in Amritsar go on hunger strike outside the Amritsar Improvement Trust (AIT) office at Ranjit Avenue. The workers launched an indefinite strike and said they will not stop until officials meet their demands. They oppose the existing contract system, which they say creates conditions like bonded labor and traps them in insecure, low-paying jobs.
Many of these workers have served the Trust for years, yet officials never gave them permanent jobs. They currently earn only Rs 300 per day, which is too little to support their families. Because of this, they struggle to pay for basic needs like housing, healthcare, and education. Their situation highlights how labor rights remain a serious problem in Punjab, especially for Dalit workers in marginalized communities.
They are holding a relay protest, with two workers fasting each day while others support them. Their key demands are clear, end the contract system and regularize their jobs. Many workers say the contract model denies them job security, fair wages, and essential benefits. They also point out that officials have not updated the DC rate (minimum daily wage) for years, leaving them stuck in poverty.
No senior officials from the AIT or the district administration have visited the protest site yet. However, the police have deployed officers to maintain peace and ensure safety, showing how tense the situation has become. On Thursday, officials promised that a group of workers could meet the Deputy Commissioner of Amritsar to discuss their concerns. That promise gave them hope, but they remain determined to continue the strike.
During the demonstration, Nitish Bhim from the Bhim Action Committee addressed the crowd. He accused the Punjab government of ignoring labor rights and showing a negative attitude toward Dalit workers. Nitish said the protest would remain peaceful but continue until all demands are fulfilled. He also noted that sanitation workers across Punjab, including those in Mohali, face similar challenges.
Every worker deserves fair pay, job security, and dignity. Yet, sanitation workers say the government has denied them these rights for too long. Their struggle is not just about wages — it is about respect, equality, and justice. Their strike exposes larger issues of social injustice and economic inequality that impact thousands of workers across the state.
The protest is also a message to society to value the crucial work these workers do. They keep cities clean and functioning, yet many people overlook their contributions. Their hunger strike sends a strong reminder that they deserve respect, fair pay, and legal protection.
The strike also highlights the urgent need for government action. Officials must revise outdated labor policies, increase minimum wages, and end exploitative systems. Most importantly, they must begin an honest dialogue with workers and listen to their demands.
In conclusion, the ongoing protest shows how determined these workers are to change their lives. Their courage has sparked a broader debate about labor rights and dignity. As sanitation workers in Amritsar go on hunger strike, the government now faces strong pressure to act quickly, meet their demands, and ensure fair working conditions for all.
Daily News
Punjab Government Ensures Safety and Health During Festival
The festive season brings joy and celebration, but it also raises concerns for safety and health.
The festive season is a time for joy and tradition, but it also needs caution. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced that the Punjab Government ensures safety and health during festival through several important steps. With Diwali near, the state has increased security and started health drives to ensure worry-free celebrations.
The government expects more public gatherings during the festival. Therefore, strong security measures are in place. The Punjab Police are deployed in key areas to maintain peace and react quickly if needed. Special monitoring teams will patrol markets, transport hubs, and religious places to stop any trouble.
Health and food safety are top priorities. CM Mann raised concerns about food adulteration, which often increases during festivals. To address this, he directed the Health Department to launch special inspections of sweets and packaged items. Teams will collect samples, and officials will punish anyone selling unsafe products. He also urged traders to focus on quality and check their stock regularly.
Mann encouraged families to make healthy choices. He suggested using organic products and eating fresh fruits and vegetables. Good nutrition, he said, keeps people healthy and makes celebrations more enjoyable.
Safety during Diwali is another key focus. Firecrackers, though traditional, often cause injuries and pollution. Mann asked citizens to celebrate a “Green Diwali” by using fewer crackers. He advised parents to keep children away from fireworks and choose eco-friendly alternatives. Being careful can prevent burns, eye injuries, and accidents.
The Chief Minister also responded to political events. Speaking about Navjot Sidhu’s return to politics, he said people are free to join or leave politics anytime. However, he added that nothing significantly new is expected from Sidhu and wished him well.
Mann addressed opposition criticism over recent floods too. He explained that natural disasters are beyond human control and happen in states like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand as well. The government is conducting girdawari (damage checks) and will soon give compensation cheques to affected families. He said a detailed damage report has already gone to the Central Government for financial aid.
The Chief Minister also expressed sorrow over recent losses. He mourned the deaths of singer Rajvir Jwanda and bodybuilder Varinder Ghuman. Their contributions to Punjabi culture, he said, will always be remembered.
Mann’s statements reflect a hands-on approach to public welfare. From safety and health checks to disaster relief and cultural support, the government is working to protect and serve its people.
In conclusion, the Punjab Government ensures safety and health during festival by boosting security, ensuring food safety, promoting eco-friendly celebrations, and helping flood-affected families. As the festive season begins, the government encourages people to stay careful, eat healthy, and celebrate responsibly.
Daily News
Chandigarh Takes Action Against Cab Companies for Rule Breaks
The Chandigarh State Transport Authority (STA) is taking steps against cab companies that are not following the rules.
The Chandigarh takes action against cab companies as the State Transport Authority (STA) begins strict enforcement of transport laws. Recently, STA issued show-cause notices to major cab aggregators like Ola, Uber, inDrive, and Rapido for violating the Chandigarh Motor Vehicle Aggregator Policy-2025. This move follows a large number of complaints from drivers working across the Tricity region, who claim that companies are ignoring government rules and harming their livelihoods.
According to the policy, every cab aggregator must operate a proper office in Chandigarh. However, recent inspections revealed serious violations. Ola vacated its office six months ago, leaving no functioning setup. InDrive maintained a very small office with only one staff member, who could not answer official questions. Uber listed an incorrect address, making it hard for authorities to contact them. Meanwhile, Rapido had a locked office that was unavailable for any support.
Because of these findings, STA secretary Amit Kumar ordered all companies to respond within 15 days. If they fail to provide a valid explanation, they could lose their operating licenses in Chandigarh. This tough stance shows the administration’s determination to hold companies accountable and ensure they follow the law.
Thousands of cab and taxi drivers have complained about unfair practices. They argue that companies have not implemented the new fare structure introduced in July 2023 under the updated policy. Instead of paying drivers based on a commission model, several platforms switched to a subscription system. As a result, drivers now pay higher operational costs and face more financial pressure.
Furthermore, the STA notices highlight multiple serious violations. Cab aggregators failed to provide mandatory health and term insurance, neglected required driver training, and did not follow updated fare guidelines. These actions not only break the law but also put drivers at risk and reduce their earnings.
Many drivers depend entirely on these companies for income. When regulations are ignored, their financial stability and working conditions suffer. Several drivers expressed frustration, saying they feel abandoned by the platforms they rely on. They demand strict enforcement so that their rights and welfare are protected.
The STA’s investigation shows its strong commitment to fair business practices and driver welfare. When companies follow the rules, it helps create a safer, more stable working environment. It also ensures passengers receive reliable and legal services.
If companies want to continue operating in Chandigarh, they must act quickly. They need proper offices, transparent communication channels, and support systems for drivers. Moreover, they must comply with fare policies, insurance requirements, and training programs to meet legal standards.
This situation highlights the urgent need for better collaboration between cab platforms and their drivers. Open communication, fair policies, and mutual respect can create a system where companies grow and workers benefit equally. Industry experts also believe that stricter digital monitoring and periodic audits could improve compliance and transparency.
The coming weeks will be crucial. How companies respond to the STA’s orders will decide whether they can continue their business in Chandigarh. Failure to follow the rules could result in license suspension and significant financial losses.
In conclusion, the STA’s tough action shows a clear message: companies must operate responsibly and prioritize the people who power their services. The Chandigarh takes action against cab companies not only to enforce the law but also to protect drivers’ rights and ensure safer, fairer transportation for everyone.
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