New average balance rules for banks have been implemented, and the railway’s UTS system has been replaced by the “Rail One” app.
A wave of administrative changes, political confrontations, and escalating protests marked the beginning of March in Punjab. From new digital banking regulations to a heated CBI probe demand over a recent encounter, the state’s landscape is shifting rapidly.
1. Major Digital and Administrative Shifts
Starting today, several new rules impacting the daily lives of citizens have come into effect:
- Digital Security: Strict “sim-binding” is now mandatory for WhatsApp and Telegram to enhance digital payment security.
- Banking & Transport: New average balance rules for banks have been implemented, and the railway’s UTS system has been replaced by the “Rail One” app.
- School Timings: As March month has begun, the timings for government schools have changed. Primary schools reportedly will now follow timings from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM, while Middle and Senior Secondary schools will run until 2:50 PM.
2. Gurdaspur Encounter Sparks Outcry
The family of Ranjeet Singh, who was killed in a police encounter in Gurdaspur, has refused to conduct his post-mortem or cremation. The family has got a political support through SAD Bikram Singh Majithia, is demanding a CBI investigation and the suspension of CIA officials involved. Majithia has further called for cases to be registered against Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and high-ranking officials.
3. Political War of Words
The political climate is heating up as parties gear up for upcoming rallies:
- Congress in Barnala: Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge are set to launchh the party’s election campaign from Barnala. However, internal friction remains, with party leadership warning members to be “team players” or face being sidelined.
- Akali Dal’s “Punjab Bachao” Rally: Sukhbir Singh Badal slammed the AAP led Punjab State Government during a rally in Rampura Phul, promising to clean the state’s rivers and restart the World Cup Kabaddi if voted into power in 2027.
- The “Black Bag” Disclosure: Regarding CM Bhagwant Mann’s appearance at the Akal Takht Secretariat, Jathedar Gadhgaj claimed that while thousands of pages were reviewed from the “two black bags,” no actionable evidence or specific items requiring further investigation were found.
4. Protests and Public Advisories
- Samana Dharma Yudh Morcha: Protests have entered 6th day at Banda Singh Bahadur Chowk. Following it, Farmer and Sikh organizations have announced a complete shutdown for Monday and warned of a statewide “Punjab Bandh” if their demands regarding strict laws are not met.
- Chandigarh Traffic: The first Chandigarh International Marathon has caused major traffic diversions today, with main gates at PGI closed from 4:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Emergency services, however, remain operational.
