Karuppu Box Office Collection Day 2: Suriya-Trisha Krishnan Starrer Witnesses Huge 56% Jump On Saturday, Beats Retro

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May 17, 2026

Shubman Gill: Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill delivered a brutally honest assessment of his team’s performance after their defeat against Kolkata Knight Riders, admitting that poor fielding and dropped catches played a major role in the loss.

Costly Dropped Catches Hurt Gujarat Titans

The Gujarat Titans missed multiple catching opportunities during KKR’s innings, allowing key batters to continue scoring when they could have been dismissed earlier. Those missed chances eventually proved expensive as Kolkata Knight Riders capitalized on the errors and built momentum. Gill admitted that such mistakes can completely change the direction of a T20 game, especially against strong opposition in high-pressure situations.

Shubman Gill’s Honest Admission

Speaking after the defeat, Shubman Gill acknowledged that fielding standards were below expectations and said the team paid the price for not converting simple opportunities. The GT skipper emphasized that no team can expect to win consistently while dropping “sitters” in crucial matches.

Focus Turns to Improvement Before Playoffs

Despite the setback, Gill suggested that it is better for the team to identify and correct mistakes now rather than repeat them during playoff matches. He stressed the importance of improving fielding discipline and maintaining composure under pressure.

KKR Capitalizes on GT Errors

Meanwhile, Kolkata Knight Riders made full use of the opportunities handed to them. Their batters punished loose fielding and ensured that Gujarat Titans remained under pressure throughout key phases of the match. KKR’s disciplined performance highlighted the importance of small moments in T20 cricket, where a single dropped catch can completely alter the outcome of a game.

Pressure Mounts Ahead of Crucial Matches

Shubman Gill:The defeat has increased pressure on Gujarat Titans as the tournament approaches its decisive stage. While the team remains one of the strongest contenders, recurring fielding errors could become a major concern if not addressed quickly

Govt’s Surprise Silver Import Ban Adds Pressure on Traders Already Facing Price Volatility, Are We Heading in Choppy Waters? Check

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May 17, 2026

The Indian government’s sudden decision to move silver imports into the “restricted” category has sent fresh shockwaves across the bullion and commodity markets.

What Does the Silver Import Ban Mean?

Under the new policy framework, silver imports will no longer fall under the “free import” category. Instead, importers may now require additional approvals or licenses before bringing silver into the country.

Traders Already Under Pressure

The Silver Import Ban comes during a period when bullion traders are already struggling with rapid price movements in global commodity markets. Factors such as inflation concerns, currency fluctuations, and geopolitical conflicts have made silver prices highly volatile.

Possible Impact on Domestic Silver Prices

Experts believe the restrictions could potentially reduce the supply of imported silver in the domestic market. If demand remains strong while imports slow down, silver prices in India could rise further.

Industrial Demand Could Also Be Affected

Silver is not only used for jewellery and investment purposes but also plays an important role in electronics, solar panels, electric vehicles, and various industrial applications. Any disruption in imports may impact sectors that depend heavily on a stable silver supply. Industry observers are now assessing whether the restrictions could create shortages or lead companies to explore alternative sourcing strategies.

Are We Heading Into Choppy Waters?

The broader concern now is whether the Silver Import Ban is the beginning of a larger shift in India’s precious metals trade policy. With global economic conditions remaining uncertain, any additional restrictions or supply disruptions could intensify market volatility further. For now, traders and investors are expected to remain cautious as they wait for more clarity on how the restrictions will be implemented and what long-term impact they may have on India’s bullion ecosystem.

Aakhri Sawal Vs Pati Patni Aur Woh Do Box Office Collection Day 2: Sanjay Dutt, Ayushmann Khurrana Films See Slight Growth, Head Towards Underwhelming Weekend Total

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May 17, 2026

Aakhri Sawal Vs Pati Patni Aur Woh Do Box Office Collection Day 2 — Photo Credit: X

The latest releases Aakhri Sawal and Pati Patni Aur Woh Do continued to struggle on Day 2 despite showing slight improvement in collections. Both films witnessed a modest jump on Saturday due to the weekend factor, but the overall numbers remain below expectations. With Sunday now becoming crucial, the two releases are heading towards an underwhelming opening weekend at the box office.

While Ayushmann Khurrana’s romantic comedy managed to stay ahead in the race, Sanjay Dutt’s political drama continued to face a tough time in cinemas. Mixed audience response and limited buzz have impacted the momentum of both films.

Aakhri Sawal, Pati Patni Aur Woh Do Box Office Collection Day 2

According to Sacnilk, Pati Patni Aur Woh Do earned around Rs 5.75 crore net on its second day at the Indian box office. The film’s total India net collection now stands at approximately Rs 9.75 crore after two days.

Directed as a spiritual follow-up to the 2019 hit Pati Patni Aur Woh, the film stars Ayushmann Khurrana alongside Sara Ali Khan, Wamiqa Gabbi and Rakul Preet Singh. Despite the popular cast and decent pre-release hype, the movie has not managed to generate the kind of excitement expected from a commercial entertainer.

Industry trackers suggest that average word-of-mouth and mixed reactions from viewers are slowing down the film’s box office growth. Though Saturday numbers improved slightly compared to Friday, the collections are still considered low for a weekend release featuring Ayushmann Khurrana.

The film also struggled to cross the Rs 10 crore mark within two days, which has come as a surprise given the popularity of the franchise title.

Meanwhile, Aakhri Sawal has continued its disappointing theatrical run. As per Sacnilk, the film collected around Rs 0.73 crore net on Day 2 after opening with Rs 0.40 crore on Friday. Its total India net collection now stands close to Rs 1.13 crore.

Directed by Abhijeet Mohan Warang, the film revolves around an ideological conflict between a professor and his student that later sparks a nationwide debate. Despite its intense political theme and Sanjay Dutt’s presence, the film has failed to attract strong footfalls in theatres.

Reports suggest occupancy remained weak across several regions even on Saturday. Although the movie witnessed some growth due to the weekend, the numbers remain extremely low for a big-screen release featuring a veteran actor like Sanjay Dutt.

Day	Aakhri Sawal	Pati Patni Aur Woh Do
Day 1	Rs 0.40 cr	Rs 4 cr
Day 2	Rs 0.73 cr	Rs 5.75 cr
Total	Rs 1.13 cr nett	Rs 9.75 cr nett

Sunday Crucial For Both Films

With the first weekend nearing its end, both Aakhri Sawal and Pati Patni Aur Woh Do now depend heavily on Sunday collections to improve their overall weekend totals.

While Pati Patni Aur Woh Do still has some chance to recover through multiplex audiences and urban centres, Aakhri Sawal faces a much tougher road ahead because of weak buzz and low occupancy trends.

If Sunday fails to show a major jump, both films could face difficulty sustaining themselves at the box office in the coming weekdays.

Class 12 OSM Controversy Peaks, Triggers Major CBSE Review Initiative With Multi-Stage Verification Process, Check

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May 17, 2026

CBSE: The Class 12 OSM evaluation issue has been brought to the forefront by many students who reported receiving marks below their expectations. To resolve this issue, the Central Board of Secondary Education has come up with a multistep process to verify marks and eliminate discrepancies. This step came after many students took to various social media platforms to report that they received marks that were far lower than what they expected.

What Is the OSM Controversy?

OSM refers to On-Screen Marking, a form of digital evaluation adopted by the CBSE Board. In this process, scanned copies of the students’ answer sheets are reviewed electronically by examiners. Although this process was introduced to make the examination process more efficient, there seems to be an issue with the accuracy of the marks in the recent results.

Multi-Level Review Mechanism Launched by CBSE

As a solution to the complaints, CBSE has introduced a multi-level system of review that will enable the candidates to check the marks scored by them at various stages. It involves the use of scanned answer papers, mark verification, and a request for re-marking, if necessary.

Students May Obtain Marked Sheets

One of the major aspects of the new review process is that the candidates will receive copies of their evaluated answer sheets. This step is bound to boost the credibility of the exam process and help the students in comprehending the way marks were awarded.

CBSE Defends Evaluation System

Despite the criticism, CBSE has maintained that the OSM system follows strict guidelines and quality-control measures. The board stated that the review mechanism is part of its commitment to transparency and student support rather than an admission of widespread errors.

Growing Pressure for Transparency

CBSE: The Class 12 OSM controversy has once again highlighted the importance of trust and transparency in India’s education system.

Huma Qureshi: ‘Sharmati Hui Smile Aur Banarasi Saree…’ Actress Wins Hearts As She Flaunts Her Desi Look At Cannes 2026

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May 17, 2026

Huma Qureshi Cannes 2026 — Photo Credit: X

Huma Qureshi turned heads at the 79th edition of the Cannes Film Festival with her elegant traditional look that beautifully celebrated Indian craftsmanship. The actor embraced desi fashion on the global stage by stepping out in a stunning Banarasi saree, winning praise from fans across social media.

As Indian celebrities continue to make stylish appearances at Cannes 2026, Huma stood out for blending tradition with modern elegance. Her purple and gold saree look quickly became one of the most talked-about fashion moments from the festival, with many calling her appearance timeless and graceful.

Huma Qureshi Celebrates Indian Craftsmanship At Cannes 2026

On May 16, Huma shared a series of pictures from Cannes on Instagram and opened up about the inspiration behind her look. The actor reflected on the beauty of Indian weaves and how meaningful it felt to represent them on an international platform.

Sharing the pictures, Huma wrote, “From the ghats of Banaras to the French Riviera. There’s something incredibly special about wearing a weave that feels like it has lived through time. What I love most is how it holds two worlds at once. The nostalgia of a traditional Banarasi weave, and the quiet unexpectedness of motifs that feel contemporary and playful. At Cannes, surrounded by cinema and storytelling, it feels surreal to wear something that tells a story of its own.”

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She also posted a video from the event and wrote, “Draped in poetry .. crafted by hand .. timeless elegant tres chic.”

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A post shared by Huma Qureshi (@iamhumaq)

Fans flooded the comments section with compliments. One user wrote, “Empress of beauty.”

Another commented, “Huma, ye sharmati hui smile aur Banarasi saree… video mein aapka ye andaaz ekdum dil chune wala hai.”

A third fan added, “Saree mein aap sabse alag lagti ho.”

Decoding Huma Qureshi’s Cannes look

For her appearance at Cannes 2026, Huma wore a rich purple and gold Banarasi saree from Shanti Banaras. The outfit featured intricate gold brocade embroidery with palm tree motifs inspired by the French Riviera while still reflecting the essence of traditional Indian weaving.

She paired the saree with a gold silk blouse featuring half sleeves, a plunging neckline and detailed brocade work. The look was styled by Nikhil Mansata and Leepakshi Ellawadi.

Huma completed the ensemble with statement jewellery from Amrapali Jewels, including a traditional necklace with Polki work, matching earrings and a bold ring. She also carried an embroidered mini clutch by Kavya Potluri.

For makeup, the actor opted for a soft, glamorous look with glossy pink lips, bronze eye shadow, winged eyeliner and glowing skin. Her hair was styled in loose waves with a side partition, adding elegance to the overall appearance.

Huma Qureshi: Upcoming Projects

Huma Qureshi is known for delivering powerful performances in films like Gangs of Wasseypur, Ek Thi Daayan, Dedh Ishqiya and Jolly LLB 2.

The actor will next be seen in Toxic alongside Yash, Kiara Advani, Tara Sutaria, Nayanthara and Rukmini Vasanth.

POCSO Case Against Bandi Sanjay Kumar’s Son, Remanded to Judicial Custody, Lawyers Assert Innocence

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May 17, 2026

A major legal controversy involving the son of senior BJP leader Bandi Sanjay Kumar has drawn widespread public and political attention after a court remanded him to judicial custody in connection with a case filed under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Court Sends Accused to Judicial Custody

According to reports, the accused was produced before the court following his detention in relation to the POCSO case. After hearing the matter, the court ordered judicial custody as part of the ongoing legal proceedings. Officials have not publicly disclosed detailed information about the allegations due to the sensitive nature of the case and legal restrictions associated with POCSO-related matters.

Lawyers Deny Allegations

The legal team representing Bandi Sanjay Kumar’s son has strongly denied all allegations. Lawyers stated that the accused is innocent and claimed that the truth would become clear during the investigation and court proceedings. The defense team also expressed confidence that their client would eventually “come out clean” once all evidence and facts are examined properly by the authorities and the judiciary.

Investigation Still Underway

Investigating agencies are continuing to gather evidence, record statements, and verify different aspects related to the case. Authorities are reportedly examining all available material as part of a detailed probe. No conclusions have been announced yet, and officials have maintained that the investigation is still in progress.

Political Reactions Intensify

The case has triggered political reactions from multiple sides. Opposition leaders have demanded transparency and a fair investigation, while supporters of Bandi Sanjay Kumar have urged the public not to make judgments before the legal process is completed.The controversy has also reignited debate around how politically sensitive cases are discussed in the public domain before judicial findings are established.

Importance of Due Process

Legal experts have emphasized that cases registered under the POCSO Act require careful handling because of their sensitive nature. They stress that while allegations must be investigated seriously, the legal rights of all parties involved must also be protected during the judicial process.

NEET UG Paper Leak: Gurus Turn Rogue? BIG Revelation, CBI Zeroes in on NTA’s Paper Setters

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May 17, 2026

NEET UG Paper Leak: The NEET UG question paper leak case has already received much attention because there is an ongoing inquiry from the CBI into possible insider breaches and their connection to NTA paper setting and coaching networks.

Expanding CBI Inquiry

According to sources, the Central Bureau of Investigation has started investigating several officials associated with the process of preparing and delivering the exam paper in order to find out how it happened.

Connection to Coaching Network

Another direction taken by the investigators includes possible connections to the coaching network through some “guru” who has been able to get unauthorized access to the question paper.

Security Concerns Raised

The question leak case has aroused many security concerns regarding NEET UG since the exam is considered one of the most competitive entrance tests in India.

Effect on Students

There is great concern amongst aspiring medical students due to the controversy regarding the leakage of papers of NEET UG examination. Since NEET UG acts as the main medium for entry into medical education, the uncertainty about the validity of the NEET UG test is having an effect on millions of students who have been preparing for it for years. The apprehensions of re-conducting the examination add more stress and uncertainty for the candidates.

NTA Stance

NEET UG Paper Leak: In response, the National Testing Agency has confirmed the following high-security measures and readiness to cooperate with the CBI.

‘Decade of Disasters…’ Has PM Modi Suddenly Turned Pessimistic? Warns Of Massive Poverty

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May 17, 2026

PM Modi has warned that the world may be heading into a “decade of disasters” due to the combined impact of COVID-19, wars, and the global energy crisis. He cautioned that these ongoing challenges could reverse years of progress in reducing poverty and push millions back into economic hardship.

Warning of ‘Decade of Disasters’ by PM Modi

According to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the coming decade may be termed a “decade of disasters.” This is because of the compounded effect of several crises, including the pandemic, ongoing war, and global energy crisis. According to him, these events have the potential to undo decades of achievements in poverty alleviation.

Multiple Crises Impacting the Global Economy

The prime minister indicated that there are many global events affecting the economy in many negative ways, such as disrupting the supply chain, increasing inflation, and affecting other economies in different ways.

Risks of Increased Poverty Levels

PM Modi indicated that millions of people would sink back into poverty if nothing was done. Factors contributing to this risk include cost of living, loss of jobs, and economic instability.

Call for Increased Cooperation

Although the warning indicates the possibility of increased poverty levels, the prime minister encouraged the nations to increase cooperation globally in stabilizing the economy.

Ravi Mohan: ‘Never Wake A Sleeping Lion…’ Ex-Wife Aarti Ravi Shares Fiery Post After Accusations Of Black Magic, Forced Marriage

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May 17, 2026

Ravi Mohan and Ex Wife Aarti Ravi — Photo Credit: X

The ongoing personal turmoil between Ravi Mohan and his estranged wife Aarti Ravi has taken another dramatic turn. Shortly after Ravi made explosive allegations about his marriage and family life, Aarti responded with a fiery public warning that hinted she may soon reveal her side of the story.

The latest exchange comes nearly two years after the couple announced their separation. While Ravi recently opened up about his emotional struggles, allegations of blackmail and ongoing divorce battle, Aarti has now made it clear that her silence should not be seen as weakness.

Aarti Ravi Issues Strong Warning After Ravi Mohan’s Allegations

On Saturday, Aarti took to Instagram and shared a pointed note seemingly directed at Ravi Mohan’s recent statements during a press conference in Chennai.

She wrote, “You never wake a sleeping lion. God help if she’s a mamma lion. My dignified silence should never be mistaken for weakness or taken undue advantage of. If needed, to protect my children and my dignity, I will step out of my comfort zone and face the world with the truth. Because truth always prevails.”

Her post received massive support online, with several followers praising her strength. Actor Khushbu Sundar also reacted in the comments section and wrote, “Never mess with a mother. And you are a lioness with her cubs. More power to you my baby.”

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A post shared by Aarti (@aarti.ravi)

Aarti’s statement came just hours after Ravi Mohan held an emotional press conference where he spoke about his ongoing divorce battle and announced that he would not release any of his films until the legal process is completed.

What Ravi Mohan Said In Press Conference

During his interaction with the media, Ravi Mohan appeared visibly emotional and admitted that staying silent for years may have been a mistake. He said, “I think remaining silent all these years was extremely foolish on my part. Many people want to provoke the calm person I used to be. My films will no longer be released in theatres. Until I get a divorce, none of my films will be released on screen. I am unable to act until I receive my divorce.”

The actor also made serious allegations against Aarti Ravi and her family. Ravi claimed he was being denied access to his children and accused his in-laws of creating tension in his personal life.

He alleged, “If anything happens to Keneeshaa or to me, they (Aarti Ravi’s family) will be responsible. They think I should not stay alive.”

Ravi further claimed that he was pressured into marriage and professionally controlled throughout his career. He said, “Aarti married me only after blackmailing me by cutting her hand. Before one film produced by their family banner would even finish, they would ask me to sign another. I was not supposed to act in outside productions.”

Keneeshaa Francis Exits Social Media Amid Controversy

Ravi Mohan also addressed the ongoing attention surrounding singer Keneeshaa Francis, who has frequently been linked to the actor in recent months. Claiming that she had faced online harassment, Ravi said, “They cyberbullied Keneeshaa and drove her away. She is a very hard worker.”

Shortly after Ravi’s press conference, Keneeshaa announced her decision to leave social media and step away from public life. In her emotional note, she wrote, “I walked into this story with love. I walk out of it with silence.”

She also revealed that she has left Chennai and exited the music industry entirely.

Ravi Mohan And Aarti Ravi’s Marriage Controversy

Ravi Mohan and Aarti Ravi got married in 2009 and share two sons, Aarav and Ayaan. In 2024, Ravi publicly announced that he was proceeding with the dissolution of their marriage due to personal reasons. Soon after the announcement, Aarti claimed she had no prior knowledge of Ravi’s decision and said the family was left blindsided.

She had stated earlier, “I was deeply shocked and saddened by the recent public announcement regarding our marriage, which was made without my knowledge or consent.”

Despite maintaining silence for a long time, Aarti now appears ready to speak publicly if the situation escalates further.

‘Patience Of A Saint…’ Katrina Kaif Wishes Vicky Kaushal On His 38th Birthday With Mushy Photos, Hides Baby Vihaan’s Face

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May 17, 2026

Vicky Kaushal Katrina Kaif — Photo Credit: Instagram

Katrina Kaif melted hearts on social media after sharing an emotional birthday post for her husband Vicky Kaushal on his 38th birthday. The actor posted a series of unseen family pictures, giving fans a rare glimpse into their private life. What grabbed maximum attention was the first-ever appearance of their baby boy, Vihaan, though the couple carefully hid his face in the pictures.

The heartfelt post instantly went viral, with fans and celebrities flooding the comments section with love and warm wishes. Katrina’s emotional note, filled with gratitude, humour and affection, offered a candid look into her bond with Vicky and how their lives have changed since becoming parents.

Katrina Kaif Shares Emotional Birthday Note For Vicky Kaushal

On Saturday, Katrina took to Instagram and shared a carousel of cosy family moments from Vicky’s birthday celebration. Alongside the pictures, she penned a touching note reflecting on love, patience and family.

Sharing the post, Katrina wrote, “Happy Birthdayyyyyy…. Same place, 2 years later and how much has changed… Prayer, patience and faith… And today we celebrate your birthday with the most amount of joy with our little angel….”

She further praised Vicky for being her constant support system over the years. Katrina added, “My heart is full and grateful … Last few years you have been a pillar of strength, of love and light with the patience of a saint 99 % of the time (ok maybe 98) I love you not only for who you are (an exemplary human being with a integrity hard to find), but also because you entertain the endless questions that I ask you, about things you cannot possibly know the answer to.”

One of the pictures showed Katrina hugging Vicky warmly as the actor smiled brightly for the camera. Dressed in a soft beige outfit, Katrina looked relaxed and happy during the intimate celebration.

Another picture from the post became the biggest talking point online. Katrina and Vicky were seen cuddling their baby boy outdoors amid lush greenery. While the couple did not reveal Vihaan’s face, the adorable family moment marked his first appearance on social media.

The little one was dressed in a grey hooded jacket while facing his parents. Fans quickly filled social media with reactions, calling the picture “heartwarming” and “pure happiness.”

Katrina also added a humorous touch to her note while talking about the kind of conversations she has with Vicky.

She wrote, “Yes, you are now an expert on mythology, AI, waterproofing, make up, health, business, all “What if” situations in general and everything else in between … For your birthday, I wish for you a few extra moments and time for a black coffee (or 2) between the time you wake up and the moment my questions start.”

The celebration also featured a special birthday cake with “Happy Birthday Papa” written on it.

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Celebrities including Kareena Kapoor, Parineeta Chopra and Sonakshi Sinha also reacted to the post. Kareena commented, “So happy for you Kat and Vicky.” Sonakshi wrote, “Toooo sweet!! More happiness to you both.”

About VicKat’s Personal And Professional Front

Vicky and Katrina welcomed baby Vihaan in November last year and later revealed his name in January. The couple tied the knot in an intimate ceremony in Rajasthan in December 2021 after keeping their relationship away from the public eye for a long time.

On the professional front, Vicky was last seen in the blockbuster Chhaava and will next appear in Love And War alongside Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt. Katrina was last seen in Tiger 3 and Merry Christmas.

Major Setback for Congress in Majitha, Several Leaders Join AAP

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May 16, 2026

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab dealt a major setback for Congress in Majitha. On Saturday, several senior Congress leaders and grassroots workers left the traditional party and joined AAP.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann formally inducted all the leaders into AAP and welcomed them into the party. Majitha constituency in-charge Talbir Singh Gill was also present on the occasion.

Prominent leaders who joined AAP from Congress include Parmjeet Singh Pamma, Palwinder Singh Pali, Jagdeep Singh Goga, Apramdeep Singh Appu and Amandeep Singh.

On this occasion, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said that the policies of the AAP government are dedicated to the welfare of every section of society. Today, the people of the state are rising above everything and choosing the politics of development. The joining of these leaders from Majitha will give unprecedented strength to the party in the region. Together, we will make Punjab a ‘Rangla Punjab’ once again.

Talbir Singh Gill said that the graph of Congress in Majitha has completely declined and with the joining of hardworking leaders into AAP today, AAP’s base in the region has become even stronger. All the leaders who joined AAP also thanked Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and said that they would work day and night to strengthen the party.

AAP will not allow even single genuine vote to be deleted in Punjab through SIR: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann

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May 16, 2026

Amid growing concerns over manipulation of electoral rolls in several states, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday declared that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) would not allow even a single genuine vote to be deleted in Punjab under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process. Warning against any attempt to engineer “fake votes” in favour of a particular political party, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann asserted that AAP leaders and karyakartas would remain stationed alongside Booth Level Officers (BLOs) at every polling booth across Punjab to monitor the exercise and prevent any irregularity.

Referring to complaints from other states regarding deletion of lakhs of genuine votes and irregularities in the verification process, the Chief Minister said the people of Punjab would not permit such practices in the state and urged the Election Commission (EC) to carry out the entire SIR exercise with complete honesty, transparency and impartiality while ensuring that public objections are resolved without delay.

Interacting with the media, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The Special Intensive Revision of voter lists must be conducted with complete transparency, honesty, fairness and accountability so that every genuine voter can exercise their democratic right without fear or obstruction. Representatives of all political parties will remain actively involved throughout the process to ensure that no irregularities take place anywhere in Punjab.”

The Chief Minister noted, “Concerns raised in several states regarding deletion of genuine votes and inclusion of fake entries have created anxiety among citizens, making it imperative for the Election Commission to act with utmost responsibility and neutrality. Complaints have surfaced from different states about lakhs of genuine votes being deleted and manipulation in the verification process, but the people of Punjab will not allow such practices to happen in the state.”

“Democracy cannot survive if people begin to lose trust in the sanctity of electoral rolls and constitutional institutions responsible for conducting elections,” asserted CM Bhagwant Singh Mann. “The Election Commission must ensure that every eligible voter is protected and every complaint raised by political parties is addressed honestly, transparently and without delay,” he added.

Clarifying the AAP’s stand on revision of electoral rolls, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Names of deceased individuals or those who have permanently shifted abroad after acquiring foreign citizenship should naturally be removed from voter lists, but no genuine resident of Punjab should face harassment or denial of voting rights under any circumstances.”

The Chief Minister further revealed that nearly 83 percent voter mapping has already been completed in Punjab and urged citizens to actively participate in the verification process to safeguard their democratic rights. “The Election Commission must conduct the entire SIR exercise with complete honesty and impartiality while ensuring that objections raised by people are resolved immediately and fairly,” affirmed CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.

Former minister Surjit Singh Rakhra joins Aam Aadmi Party

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May 16, 2026

In a major political development in Punjab, senior Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader and former Cabinet Minister Surjit Singh Rakhra formally joined the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Saturday during a public gathering held in Samana. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann personally welcomed him into the party. His family and several supporters also joined AAP along with him.

Welcoming Surjit Singh Rakhra into the party, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “May 16 will be remembered as a significant day in Punjab’s political history, as a clean and respected personality dedicated to public service has joined the AAP family. Surjit Singh Rakhra had every opportunity to focus on expanding his business and personal interests, but he chose the path of serving common people.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “I thank the entire Rakhra family and all their supporters for joining the AAP Punjab family. Sometimes leaders have to rise above personal interests and work for the welfare of the state, society and future generations.”

He continued, “Surjit Singh Rakhra repeatedly tried to reform the Shiromani Akali Dal from within, but the party had gone astray and fallen into the wrong hands. The people had already rejected the Akali leadership because of their role in ‘beadbi’ incidents and anti-people politics.”

Taking a sharp dig at the Shiromani Akali Dal, the Punjab CM stated, “Leaders who once claimed they would rule Punjab for 25 years are now left without even 25 people in the party. The Shiromani Akali Dal has weakened to such an extent that even forming committees has become difficult for them.”

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann further said, “Punjab needs experienced and honest people to rebuild the state and strengthen governance. The Rakhra family is a symbol of unity and hard work, and their experience will greatly benefit both Punjab and the party.”

Meanwhile, addressing the gathering, Surjit Singh Rakhra stated, “I thank Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and the AAP leadership for welcoming me into the party. My decision to leave the Shiromani Akali Dal was directly linked to the issue of ‘beadbi’ and the newly enacted anti-beadbi law.”

He said, “For nearly one and a half years, I regularly visited the Samana Morcha, where Gurjeet Singh Khalsa had been protesting atop a 400 foot tower demanding strict legislation against beadbi. I strongly felt that such a law was necessary.”

Surjit Singh Rakhra revealed, “Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann told me that if the government enacted a strong anti-beadbi law, then I should support the party. I had promised that if such a law was passed, I would have no hesitation in joining AAP.”

He continued, “Previous governments failed to enact an effective law because of a lack of political will, whereas the Bhagwant Mann government fulfilled the long-standing demand after the Governor approved the legislation. Once the law was passed, I had to honour my commitment.”

Surjit Singh Rakhra also praised the AAP government’s efforts and said, “The government’s work to expand canal water infrastructure and protect Punjab from turning into a desert state is commendable. The initiatives taken by the Bhagwant Mann government to revive Punjab’s water resources and increase the use of canal water have given hope to Punjab’s future generations.”

World Hypertension Day: Punjab’s Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojna Supports Patients from 40 to 90 Plus, Including 98-Year-Olds

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