NEW DELHI / CHANDIGARH: Amid a brewing rebellion within the Punjab Congress, senior party leader Rahul Gandhi rushed to meet national president Mallikarjun Kharge in Delhi immediately after returning from his foreign trip. The two top leaders are set to deliberate on a crucial assessment report submitted by AICC Punjab In-charge Bhupesh Baghel, which will ultimately dictate the future course of the party in Punjab.

Bhupesh Baghel had recently concluded a high-stakes 6-day tour of Punjab to assess internal friction. He submitted his findings to Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal, who has already held preliminary discussions with Kharge. The final decision on the fate of the state unit now rests with Rahul Gandhi.

Bhupesh Baghel's Verdict: No CM Face for Punjab

In a massive blow to the dissident faction, Bhupesh Baghel took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to clear the air. He explicitly stated that the Congress party will not project any Chief Ministerial face in Punjab.

"The Congress party has only one face in Punjab, and that is Rahul Gandhi," Baghel declared.

This statement has flatly rejected the ongoing demands from the rebel camp to project former Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi as the face of the party. Earlier, Baghel had also firmly shot down the demands to replace the current Punjab Congress chief, Amarinder Singh Raja Warring.

Channi Camp Digs in Heels, Demands Meeting with Rahul Gandhi

Meanwhile, the internal rift has widened as the Charanjit Singh Channi faction prepares to move its base to Delhi. The camp is eagerly waiting to secure an appointment with Rahul Gandhi to present their side of the story.

During the final meeting of Baghel’s Punjab tour, leaders from the Channi camp made it explicitly clear that they are deeply dissatisfied with Amarinder Singh Raja Warring's leadership.

• Senior leader Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa reportedly stated that the party cannot function under a "compromised leadership."

• Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa also urged the high command to urgently reconsider the state leadership structure.

Silence in the Rebel Rank Ahead of Delhi High Command Meet

With Bhupesh Baghel leaving Chandigarh for Delhi without offering an immediate resolution, Punjab Congress remains a divided house. For now, top leaders of the Channi faction have reportedly issued internal directives to maintain strict silence and avoid speaking to the media until they get an audience with Rahul Gandhi.

With the high command firmly backing Raja Warring and ruling out a regional CM face, all eyes are now on Delhi to see how Rahul Gandhi handles the mounting pressure from Punjab's veteran leadership.

India's defense procurement pattern has shifted rapidly following 'Operation Sindoor'. Record-breaking proposals approved over the last 14 months indicate that the armed forces are being prepared not merely for limited retaliatory actions, but for prolonged, multi-level warfare.

Since the conflict, the Defence Acquisition Council has approved 55 proposals worth over ₹9.80 lakh crore. This expenditure will not occur all at once but will be spread over several years across various deals, manufacturing programs, and modernization schemes.

The primary reason for this preparedness is that the outbreak of war is becoming increasingly common. Secondly, once a conflict begins, halting it is no longer easy; thirdly, adversaries often aim to sustain military conflicts that are prolonged and economically damaging.

The new proposals aim to ensure the sustained availability of weaponry, expedited repair capabilities, and robust logistics support for months on end. Defense experts believe that the protracted conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia have reshaped India's military strategic thinking. However, delays regarding submarines and fifth-generation fighter jets remain significant challenges.

**Global Demand for Indian Weapons Surges After 'Operation Sindoor'**

Global demand for Indian weaponry—such as BrahMos, Akash, loitering munitions, and Netra—has surged following their deployment during 'Operation Sindoor'. Numerous nations have shown interest in acquiring these systems. Deals worth over ₹21,000 crore have already been finalized with several countries.

According to the Ministry of Defence, India's defense exports reached a record ₹38,424 crore in 2025-26, marking a 62% increase over the previous year. Deals worth approximately ₹12,500 crore for the BrahMos missile system have been concluded with the Philippines, Vietnam, and two other nations.

A deal worth approximately ₹3,600 crore with Indonesia is currently in the final stages of approval. A contract worth ₹6,100 crore has already been signed with Armenia for the Akash missile system.

Exports worth ₹38,424 crore to over 100 countries

India now exports defense equipment to more than 100 countries, with the US, France, and Armenia being key destinations.

The US is the largest buyer, with systems and parts worth $2.8 billion being supplied to major companies like Boeing and Lockheed Martin. Countries like Armenia are purchasing fully assembled weapon systems.

The government has set a defense export target of ₹50,000 crore by 2029-30. In 2016-17, the figure stood at ₹1,522 crore; this represents a more than 25-fold increase in less than a decade.

RANGA REDDY, TELANGANA – In a chilling and horrific turn of events in Telangana's Ranga Reddy district, a man accused of raping a minor went on a killing spree on Friday night immediately after being released on bail. The accused murdered six people, including the 17-year-old rape survivor and his own family members.

The Gruesome Sequence of Events

The accused, identified as Rajkumar, first unleashed violence in his own home. He brutally murdered his 30-year-old wife and their two young sons, aged 4 years and 18 months.

Following the triple murder, he traveled approximately 6 kilometers to a neighboring village. There, he targeted the family of the 17-year-old girl who had filed a rape case against him under the POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) Act on May 16. Rajkumar murdered the minor survivor, her mother, and her grandmother.

"He Threatened Us Earlier" – Family Alleges Severe Police Negligence

The grieving family of the minor victim has leveled serious allegations of corruption and negligence against the local police.

Naresh, the maternal uncle of the deceased girl, stated, "He murdered my aunt and my niece. He had been harassing the girl prior to this, which led to the POCSO case. He had openly threatened to wipe out our entire family within a week or two."

According to the family, despite the severe nature of a POCSO charge, Rajkumar was never taken in for proper interrogation or remand.

"The police were unaware of his whereabouts, even though his family knew exactly where he was. The case was put on the back burner. Just two days after the FIR was filed, he managed to get bail. We informed the police 20 days later that he was roaming free and actively threatening to kill the girl, but they just claimed they were 'looking for him.' He bribed his way out, and the case was suppressed." – Naresh, Victim's Uncle

The family is now demanding strict accountability, calling for the immediate suspension of the negligent police officers and demanding that the accused be handed over to them.

What is the POCSO Act?

The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act is a specialized law implemented in 2012 to prevent sexual offenses against minors and ensure strict legal action against perpetrators.

Chandigarh: The threat of a split looms over the Punjab Congress ahead of the 2027 assembly elections. A crucial meeting lasting nearly two hours took place between the rebel Congress faction led by former Chief Minister and Jalandhar MP Charanjit Singh Channi, and AICC in-charge Bhupesh Baghel at Rana Gurjit's residence in Chandigarh. Baghel, who arrived about an hour and fifteen minutes late for the scheduled 11:00 AM meeting, is set to leave for Delhi today.

"Will Protect Everyone's Interests," Says Baghel

Following the meeting, Bhupesh Baghel addressed the media, stating:

"I have been in Chandigarh for 5 days and have met all the leaders. Today, I was invited by Rana Gurjit. I spoke to all our colleagues; they shared their views. No one has any objection to the party high command's decisions."

Baghel added that he assured the leaders that, as the in-charge, he would safeguard everyone's interests. "Those who are capable of winning will definitely get tickets. No one should feel they lack backing. I will submit my complete report to the high command," he stated.

Channi Faction's Show of Strength and Demands

Despite the high command’s instructions for Channi to meet with only 2-3 leaders, around 80 leaders from his faction gathered, putting on a massive show of strength.

• Primary Demand: The rebel faction demanded that if Charanjit Channi is not appointed as the state president, he must be declared the Chief Ministerial face for the 2027 elections to consolidate votes in Punjab.

• The high command has already clarified that Amarinder Singh Raja Warring will not be removed from the president's post. Notably, on Channi's condition, PPCC President Raja Warring was not invited to this meeting.

Raja Warring's Response & Zira’s Cryptic Post

While the meeting was underway, PPCC President Raja Warring downplayed his absence, stating, "I am not attending the meeting. The General Secretary in-charge acts as a mediator. It is not necessary for the president to go everywhere. There is unity in Congress, which is why this meeting is happening."

Meanwhile, Warring loyalist and former MLA Kulbir Singh Zira shared a cryptic photo with the caption: "No matter how many jackals and other animals are in the jungle, there is only one lion. Even alone, he rules the entire jungle." This is being seen as a direct message amidst the political tussle.

2 Major Developments Before the Meeting

1. Support from Buta Singh's Family: On Friday, the son of late former Union Home Minister Buta Singh met Channi in Morinda and publicly demanded that Channi be made the CM face. This move is seen as a pressure tactic, especially after Raja Warring's recent objectionable comments about late Buta Singh during the Tarn Taran by-election.

2. Baghel’s Stern Warning: Before the meeting, Baghel sent a clear message to the Channi faction that strict action would be taken if lines were crossed. Terming it "not a child’s play," Baghel made it clear that the high command's decision is final.

Why Did Baghel Meet Channi After 4 Days?

The Channi faction is reportedly unwilling to fight the 2027 elections under Raja Warring's leadership. When the high command retained Warring, the disgruntled Channi faction initially boycotted Baghel and sought a direct meeting with Rahul Gandhi. Denied an immediate appointment, the high command instructed both Channi and Baghel to hold this meeting. Baghel will now submit his report to Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and KC Venugopal.

Expert Opinion: "Congress Cannot Sideline Channi"

• Prof. Dr. Krishan Kumar Rattu (Political Expert): Charanjit Singh Channi is a prominent Dalit-Sikh leader. Keeping the 32% Dalit vote bank in Punjab in mind, it is not easy for the Congress high command to sideline him.

• Pramod Batish (Senior Journalist): No final decision will come from this meeting as Baghel lacks the authority to resolve the Channi faction's core grievances. If the high command does not find a middle ground after consulting Rahul Gandhi, the party may head towards a split.

"Pure devotion knows no boundaries! The Amarnath Yatra 2026 has officially shattered all previous records. In just the first seven days of the pilgrimage, a staggering 1.71 lakh devotees have visited the holy cave! This marks a massive 28% increase compared to the first week of last year.

 "But what makes this year truly historic is the sheer power of faith. Due to an unusually dry winter in Kashmir and sudden high temperatures in early July, the sacred 7-foot Ice Shivling melted and vanished within the first five days of the Yatra. Yet, the flow of devotees hasn't stopped for a single day!

Every day, more than 20,000 pilgrims are arriving at the holy cave. As one devotee beautifully said: 'Baba Barfani may have taken a subtle, invisible form, but his divine presence and energy remain right here in this cave forever.'"

The Jammu & Kashmir administration, alongside the Indian Army and local police, has set up top-notch security and infrastructure to manage the huge rush of spot-registration pilgrims. J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha recently visited the Baltal Base Camp to personally review the arrangements, assuring that every single step is being taken to keep the 57-day-long journey safe, smooth, and memorable."

"This incredible surge proves that true spiritual connection goes way beyond the physical world. What are your thoughts on this overwhelming show of faith? Let us know in the comments below, and don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more positive updates!"

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has been staging a protest at Jantar Mantar for 20 days against the NEET paper leak. On Thursday, founder Abhijit Deepke pleaded with police personnel, clasping his hands and even touching their feet. He was seeking permission to set up a tent to shield the students on a hunger strike from the rain.

Deepke shared a video of the incident, writing, "Students on a hunger strike are getting drenched in the rain. I have asked police officials for permission to set up a tent at Jantar Mantar."

In another video, he accused the police of mistreating students who were attempting to bring in a tarpaulin sheet. Deepke wrote, "Male police personnel pushed female students."

**Wangchuk joins protest; demands Education Minister's resignation**

The CJP is demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan following allegations of irregularities in the exams and the paper leak. Social activist Sonam Wangchuk has also joined the protest.
Wangchuk has been on a hunger strike since June 28. His health deteriorated on Wednesday; according to doctors, he has lost over 7 kg in 11 days, bringing his weight down to 59.4 kg.
Rishikesh, an AISA member and former JNU student leader, was admitted to RML Hospital after his health worsened; he complained of chest pain and numbness in his limbs. His 11-day hunger strike ended with his medical treatment, though four other students from the organization remain on the fast.
CJP formed after CJI's remark calling youth 'cockroaches'

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) was launched following a remark by Chief Justice Surya Kant, who stated that some unemployed youths are like cockroaches that attack the system by becoming social media or RTI activists.
The very next day, on May 16, US-based Abhijit Deepke launched the CJP and created the party's social media accounts. On May 22, they demanded Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation; this online campaign garnered support from over 8 lakh people.
As of June 10, CJP had 2.27 crore followers on Instagram. This figure has now dropped by two lakh. Nevertheless, it remains higher than the BJP's 94 lakh and the Congress's 1.37 crore followers. CJP has 2.79 lakh followers on X.

Chandigarh: Former Punjab Chief Minister and Jalandhar MP Charanjit Singh Channi appears to have stepped back after adopting a rebellious stance against Punjab Congress President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring. Facing a strict warning from the party high command, Channi broke his silence on Wednesday during a media interaction.

When asked about his displeasure within the party, Channi softened his tone, stating, "My only goal is to take the Congress forward. I will not say anything else on this matter."

"Rahul Gandhi is my leader and will always remain so. All issues will be resolved soon. We will move forward according to the strategy formulated by the party." — Charanjit Singh Channi

Baghel's Stern Message: "Changing the President is Not Child's Play"

Earlier, AICC In-charge for Punjab, Bhupesh Baghel, who is on a 5-day visit to the state, sent a clear message to Channi and his supporters. Baghel explicitly stated that changing the state unit president is "not child's play" and the high command will not reverse its decision. He noted that Raja Warring enjoys the backing of 23 district presidents, who have already given their consent in a meeting.

This tough stance comes after the Channi faction alleged that Baghel had misled the high command with a false report, claiming that the party could not win the 2027 elections under Warring's leadership.

Senior Leaders React

• Partap Singh Bajwa (Leader of Opposition): Bajwa took a subtle dig at the rebels, pointing out that in the 2022 elections, despite 10 out of 22 AAP MLAs breaking away, the AAP still won 92 seats. “If senior leaders stay behind, new people will step up. The public will support whoever they have made up their minds about,” he said. He added that the rebel faction should wait a week; if their appeal is rejected, discussions can resume.

• Pargat Singh (Jalandhar Cantt MLA): Pargat Singh emphasized that this is not the time for political experiments. “The battle for Punjab is huge, and elections are very close. This is not the time to show strength through photo sessions. We should sort out our minor problems,” he remarked.

Baghel’s 3 Failed Attempts to Pacify Channi

Despite the tough talk, efforts were made to bring Channi to the table, but they fell flat:

1. The Bajwa Route: Upon reaching Chandigarh, Baghel first met LOP Partap Singh Bajwa, hoping he could mediate. Although Bajwa spoke optimistically to the media, the Channi faction remained rigid.

2. Verka’s Initiative: Working State President Raj Kumar Verka held a closed-door meeting with Channi before meeting Baghel. However, no leader from the Channi camp subsequently went to meet the AICC in-charge.

3. The "Tea" Offer: Baghel publicly stated, "If anyone invites me for tea, I will definitely go." Despite this open invitation, the Channi faction maintained its distance on the second day of the tour.

Responsibilities of New Working Presidents Fixed

Amidst the ongoing turmoil, the party has distributed responsibilities among the newly appointed working presidents:

• Sukhwinder Singh Danny: Will work with AICC Secretary Suraj Thakur. He will oversee the 42 assembly constituencies currently managed by Thakur, along with the respective frontal organizations and departments.

• Sangat Singh Gilzian: Will coordinate with AICC Secretary Ravindra Dalvi. He has been given the responsibility of 45 assembly constituencies and the associated frontal organizations.

• Raj Kumar Verka: Will partner with AICC Secretary Heena Kawre, taking charge of 30 assembly constituencies and their related departments.

Warring’s Show of Strength vs. Channi’s Silent Protest

During the first two days of Baghel's visit, meetings were held with senior leaders, state office bearers, Election Management Committee Chairman Vijay Inder Singla, and Manifesto Committee Chairman Amar Singh. However, Campaign Committee Chairman Charanjit Singh Channi and Core Committee Chairman Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa completely skipped these meetings.

While Raja Warring’s supporters turned up in large numbers to welcome Baghel—sending a strong message about their grip on the organization—the Channi faction remained completely absent from all official programs. Sources indicate that Channi's camp refuses to share a stage with Raja Warring and insists on taking their grievances directly to the high command in Delhi.

What's Next? Wednesday is being viewed as the most crucial day, as Bhupesh Baghel is scheduled to hold one-on-one meetings with senior Punjab Congress leaders. All eyes are on whether Channi and Randhawa will finally meet the AICC in-charge or continue their boycott.

Baruipur, West Bengal: Prabhas Mandal, the prime accused in the horrific rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl in Baruipur, South 24 Parganas, was killed in a police encounter. The incident occurred when the accused allegedly attempted to flee from police custody.

According to news agency PTI, a police official stated that during the recreation of the crime scene, Prabhas Mandal snatched a police rifle. This led to an exchange of fire between the accused and the police, during which Mandal was shot. He was immediately rushed to the hospital, where doctors declared him dead.

The police had arrested two individuals in connection with the crime: Prabhas Mandal and Anand Sardar.

Gruesome Details of the Crime
The 12-year-old girl went missing on July 4, and her body was recovered from a local pond on July 5.

Police reviewed local CCTV footage, which showed four individuals taking the girl away. The preliminary autopsy report revealed horrifying details:

Cause of Death: The victim was thrown into the pond alive. Water was found in her lungs and stomach, indicating she died of drowning and severe blood loss.

Injuries: She suffered severe trauma to her head, likely from a heavy object or being slammed against a hard surface. Scratches, bite marks, and injuries to her private parts were also documented.

"He Got What He Deserved"
Following the encounter, Prabhas Mandal's mother, Sandhya Mandal, outrightly refused to claim his body.

"He has received the punishment for what he did. I do not even want to see his face, and no family member will go to collect his body." — Sandhya Mandal

She also alleged that her son was a long-time drug addict who never listened to her.

Mob Justice Claims an Innocent Life
Shortly after the girl's body was discovered on July 5, an enraged mob lynched a man named Indrajit Tanti (also referred to as Indrajit Mandal), suspecting his involvement in the rape and murder.

During a visit to the victim's family on July 7, Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari stated that according to police briefings, the lynched youth was innocent. He met with Indrajit's family, assuring them of justice.

Chief Minister's Response & Ongoing Action
CM Adhikari outlined a five-point response to the crisis:

Zero Tolerance: Instructed the Police Commissioner (CP) and SP to ensure such incidents are not repeated anywhere in Bengal.

72-Hour Deadline: Sought a detailed investigation report from the DGP within 72 hours.

Accountability: Promised strict action against officers if even 1% negligence is found in handling the initial complaint.

Vandalism Arrests: Approximately 200 people have been identified for vandalizing public property, police vehicles, and railway tracks during protests. All will be arrested.

Political Conspiracy: Alleged that certain political parties, radical groups, and anti-national forces fueled the violence.

Political Row Escalates
The tragedy has sparked a massive political controversy in Bengal. Trinamool Congress (TMC) Chief Mamata Banerjee, along with party leaders, held a candle march on July 6 to protest the incident.

The TMC alleged that heavy police forces were deployed outside Banerjee's residence to prevent her from visiting the victim's grieving family.

NCW Seeks Action Taken Report
On July 6, the National Commission for Women (NCW) intervened, demanding a detailed Action Taken Report (ATR) from Bengal DGP Siddharth Nath Gupta within a week. The NCW specified that the report must cover both the primary crime and the subsequent mob violence, which included the lynching of an innocent man, attacks on central forces, and the torching of police vehicles.

The Broader Picture: India's POCSO Crisis
According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), child sexual abuse remains a critical issue in India:

Annual Cases: Approximately 70,000 POCSO cases are registered every year (roughly 5,766 per month or 190 per day).

2024 Statistics: A staggering 69,191 POCSO cases were recorded, involving 70,132 minor victims. POCSO cases account for nearly 37% of all crimes against children (totaling 1.87 lakh).

Perpetrator Data: In 97% of severe POCSO cases, the accused is known to the child (relatives, neighbors, or family friends).

The Hidden Reality: Experts warn that due to social stigma and fear, the actual number of cases is likely much higher than reported figures.

New Delhi/Chandigarh: The Central Government has formed a review committee for Punjabi actor Diljit Dosanjh’s latest film, 'Sutlej'. BJP leader RP Singh confirmed that the committee was constituted following an appeal by Punjab BJP Chief Kewal Dhillon. The panel is tasked with studying the film's content, facts, and themes, as it reportedly lacked official Censor Board approval.

Originally titled 'Punjab 95', the film was released on an OTT platform under the new name 'Sutlej' after facing a three-year ban. However, it was abruptly taken down just two days post-release.

The Legacy of Jaswant Singh Khalra

The movie chronicles the life of prominent human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra. During the era of militancy in Punjab, Khalra collected records from cremation grounds and municipal corporations, claiming that 25,000 youth were killed in fake police encounters and cremated as "unidentified" bodies. His revelations shook the nation but cost him his life. He was abducted from outside his Amritsar home and subsequently murdered.

A Wife’s 16-Year Fight for Justice

Following his disappearance, his wife, Paramjit Kaur Khalra, spearheaded a grueling 16-year legal battle from the trial courts to the Supreme Court. Despite alleged political apathy—including a meeting with then-CM Prakash Singh Badal, who reportedly told her to "forget the case"—she refused to back down.

"While the guilty have been punished, the mystery of exactly how my husband was murdered after his kidnapping remains unsolved to this day." — Paramjit Kaur Khalra

Timeline: The Fight for Justice

Today, Paramjit Kaur continues her husband's mission, fighting for the families of the youth who disappeared and were secretly cremated during those turbulent years.

Jakarta: Strengthening bilateral relations, India and Indonesia signed 20 key agreements on Tuesday during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Jakarta. The agreements were finalized during a high-level bilateral meeting between PM Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto.

Strategic & Defense Milestones The most significant breakthrough of the summit was the BrahMos missile deal, which concluded after four months of rigorous negotiations. India will supply additional units of the BrahMos missile to Indonesia, making it the third international buyer after the Philippines and Vietnam. Furthermore, Indonesia has decided to procure India's 'Astra' air-to-air missile, which was recently used in Operation Sindoor.

Strengthening Democracy and Technology Showcasing the shared democratic values of both nations, an MoU was signed between their respective Election Commissions. Under this, India will assist Indonesia in developing Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).

Highlighting technological and trade cooperation, PM Modi announced that India's UPI will soon be connected to Indonesia's payment network, streamlining cross-border business and travel. To fortify global supply chains in the tech era, the two nations signed vital agreements focusing on critical minerals, the steel sector, stainless steel, and rare earth magnets.

Global Vision and Cultural Connect Addressing the media, PM Modi emphasized the critical role of diplomacy in today's turbulent world. On the global front, he reaffirmed India's support for a 'two-state solution' and enduring peace regarding the Palestine issue. He also highlighted the synergy between the two nations regarding the Indo-Pacific region and ASEAN's central role.

"A golden era is approaching for both our nations. I am fully confident that together we will realize the dreams of 'Indonesia Emas' (Golden Indonesia) and a developed India," said PM Modi.

On the second day of his visit, President Prabowo conferred Indonesia's highest civilian honor upon PM Modi. Expressing his gratitude, the Prime Minister dedicated the award to the 1.4 billion Indians, calling it a symbol of deep historical ties.

PM Modi is scheduled to address the Indian diaspora in Jakarta on Tuesday evening. On Wednesday, alongside President Prabowo, he will visit the 1,000-year-old Prambanan Temple in Yogyakarta, celebrating the shared cultural heritage of the two nations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Indonesia on Monday, marking his third visit to the country since assuming office. He was welcomed at the airport by President Prabowo Subianto. A major highlight of the bilateral meeting between the two leaders is the expected finalization of a ₹2,500 crore deal for the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system.

Strategic Defense Partnership If finalized, Indonesia could become the second international customer for the BrahMos missile, following the Philippines. Developed by BrahMos Aerospace, a joint venture between India’s DRDO and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyeniya, the BrahMos is recognized as one of the fastest operational supersonic cruise missiles in the world. Additionally, the development of the Sabang Port remains a key agenda item, aimed at strengthening maritime connectivity, logistics, and security, given its proximity to India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Cultural and Historical Bonds Beyond defense, the visit highlights the 2,000-year-old cultural ties between the two nations. Despite being the world’s most populous Muslim-majority country, Indonesia’s heritage is deeply influenced by Hindu-Buddhist traditions. Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to visit the 9th-century Prambanan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site dedicated to Lord Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma. The influence of Indian culture is also evident in local traditions like the Ramayana-based dance dramas, and the historical depiction of Lord Ganesha on Indonesian currency.

Visit Milestone This trip marks Prime Minister Modi’s 102nd foreign visit and his third trip to Indonesia. He previously visited the country in May 2018 and again in September 2023 for the 20th ASEAN-India Summit and the 18th East Asia Summit.

Chandigarh: A 54-year-old two-story building suddenly collapsed in Chandigarh's Industrial Area Phase-2 on Saturday, trapping the building owner and laborers under the debris. Police teams rushed to the spot immediately upon receiving the information.

All individuals trapped in the rubble have been safely evacuated. While four people were rescued earlier in the day, two more were pulled out at 9:45 PM. The latter two were transported to the hospital wrapped in white sheets. According to sources, they are feared dead, though official confirmation is still awaited.

Ramesh, a survivor who was pulled from the debris, stated that around 20 to 25 people were inside the building. At approximately 4:20 PM, they felt a tremor similar to an earthquake, and the building instantly collapsed. To rescue those trapped, the NDRF was called in. JCB machines were used to remove the lintel/roof to ensure airflow and save lives.

NDRF official Sanjeev Kohli reported, "We have rescued two people from the debris; one was unconscious, while the other was responsive. Our team successfully secured the lintel." The entire rescue operation lasted for about 5.5 hours.

MPS Chawla, President of the Industry Association, noted that the building was quite old. Located at Plot No. 28/9 in the Industrial Area, scrap work was being conducted on the premises. He attributed the roof's collapse to the building's age.

Built in 1972, Rented Out 15 Days Ago According to available information, the commercial building was allotted and constructed in 1972. It was rented out just 15 days ago, and work was actively underway. Continuous rain over the past two days reportedly caused dampness and seepage, which ultimately led to the structural failure. The two individuals trapped inside later in the evening were identified as Tarun Kaushik and Tarun Jain, both residents of Meerut, UP.

Delay in Informing NDRF The incident occurred around 4:20 PM. Police and Civil Defence teams arrived promptly and initiated the rescue operation. However, the NDRF was not informed immediately. They received the distress call around 6:45 PM—nearly two and a half hours after the collapse—after which NDRF teams arrived and took charge of the situation.

Mayor Comments on the Incident Chandigarh Mayor Saurabh Joshi stated that six to seven people were inside the building at the time of the collapse. Four were rescued safely, and while two remained trapped at the time of his statement, he mentioned their condition was stable. He confirmed it was an old building undergoing renovation work. However, when questioned about the Civil Defence team's delay in notifying the NDRF, the Mayor declined to comment.