Resolution opposing central force deployment to be tabled in Assembly
The North News
Chandigarh, July 7
The Punjab Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, has revoked a previous Congress government decision to deploy the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) at the Bhakra Dam, citing the Punjab Police’s competence in handling security matters.
The move came during a cabinet meeting held at the Punjab Civil Secretariat. A government spokesperson said the 2021 decision by the Congress-led administration was taken arbitrarily and amounted to an affront to the state police force.
A resolution to oppose the CISF deployment will now be introduced in the upcoming Assembly session. The Cabinet stated the state government would not bear any costs related to CISF personnel guarding the dam.
“Punjab Police has a proven legacy in securing the state. Bringing in CISF undermines our own forces,” a spokesperson said.
Key Cabinet Decisions
3600 Special Educator posts approved
In a major boost for inclusive education, the Cabinet approved the creation of 3,600 posts for Special Educator Teachers in government schools. This includes 1,650 posts for Master Cadre and 1,950 for Primary Cadre. The move aims to support nearly 48,000 children with special needs across Punjab. Recruitment will be phased over three years by converting existing posts for vocational, art, craft, and elementary teachers.
Bullock cart racing to return under strict rules
The Cabinet approved amendments to the Punjab Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 2025, alongside rules governing bullock cart races and rural sports. The changes aim to regulate events like the Kila Raipur Games while ensuring animal welfare through veterinary oversight, registration, and penalties for violations. Officials said the move will help preserve native cattle breeds and revive traditional rural sports.
Security of tenure for 22 employees at vocational institute
The Cabinet resolved to provide tenure to 22 employees working against permanent posts at the Rural Institute for Vocational Training in Badal, resolving a long-standing legal matter. The decision aligns with finance and personnel department advice and aims to secure employment while ending litigation.
Development tax reforms and OTS scheme
The Cabinet agreed to amend the Punjab State Development Tax Act, 2018. A new option will allow taxpayers to pay an annual lump sum of ₹2,200 by April 30 instead of monthly ₹200 payments. The state also proposed introducing a one-time settlement (OTS) mechanism for tax liabilities in cases involving death, mergers, or liquidation.
Green light for two new private universities
To enhance access to higher education, the Cabinet approved the establishment of two private self-financed universities: CGC University in Jhanjeri, Mohali, and Rayat Bahra Professional University in Hoshiarpur. These institutions are expected to promote academic excellence and regional development under the Punjab Private Universities Policy, 2010.
