Punjab’s political landscape is in motion with Harjinder Singh Dhami securing a resounding victory in the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) presidential election for the 2025-26 session, garnering 117 of 136 votes. This decisive win reinforces the Shiromani Akali Dal’s influence in religious affairs. Meanwhile, the state is locked in a significant federal dispute with the Centre. Punjab strongly opposes the Union government’s contentious plan to induct two additional members from Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh into the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), arguing it erodes state autonomy and violates the Punjab Reorganisation Act. Similarly, the Centre’s notification to restructure Panjab University’s governing bodies, which abolishes the Graduate constituency and reduces the Senate’s strength, has ignited accusations of politicization and attempts to undermine the university’s independent character, prompting legal challenges from various political parties.
On the law and order front, tragic incidents continue to mar the state. Kabaddi player Tejpal Singh was brutally murdered in Ludhiana after intervening in a dispute, while NRI Malkeet Singh met a similar fate in his fields in Dhariwal, leading police to pursue suspects with past criminal links. These events underscore ongoing challenges despite judicial calls for sparing use of coercive criminal processes. Adding to local woes, Amritsar, the holy city, grapples with severe waste management issues, with garbage piles marring its image ahead of important anniversaries, reflecting a breakdown in civic services. Concerns also persist regarding rampant illegal mining in areas like Anandpur Sahib.
Amidst these complex developments, a wave of euphoria swept through Punjab as the Indian Women’s Cricket Team, led by the state’s own Harmanpreet Kaur, clinched the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, beating South Africa in a thrilling final. This historic triumph provided a moment of immense pride and celebration across the nation, particularly in Moga, Harmanpreet’s hometown.
