Monsoon has become active again in Punjab and Chandigarh, with the meteorological department predicting intermittent rainfall until August 12. Recent showers have brought relief from heat and humidity, causing a dip in temperatures. Chandigarh recorded significant rainfall at the airport area, while Ludhiana recorded the lowest temperature in the state. No heavy rain alert has been issued yet, but light to moderate showers with thunderstorms are expected over the next few days. https://zeenews.india.com/hindi/zeephh/chandigarh/punjab-chandigarh-weather-monsoon-rain-update-12-august/3284363

Israel has closed its consulate in the Chinese city of Chengdu amid rising diplomatic tensions between the two nations. The move follows China's growing proximity to Iran and its support for Palestine during the Gaza conflict. Outgoing Consul General Gadi Harpaz expressed nostalgia and sadness over the closure while emphasizing the long-standing friendship. Although the Chengdu mission has shut down, Israel continues to operate its embassy in Beijing and consulates in Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong. https://www.rozanaspokesman.in/news/world/080826/israel-closes-its-embassy-in-china-amid-strained-relations.html

The article discusses the life and legacy of Guru Har Rai Sahib, the seventh Sikh Guru. Born in 1630, he emphasized compassion and spiritual discipline. He established missionary centers called 'Bakshishs' to spread Sikhism. The narrative covers his interactions with Dara Shikoh, his firm stance against altering Gurbani by his son Ram Rai, and the eventual appointment of Guru Har Krishan as his successor before passing away in 1661. https://www.kuksamachar.co.nz/7-%E0%A8%85%E0%A8%97%E0%A8%B8%E0%A8%A4-2026-%E0%A8%85%E0%A8%B5%E0%A8%A4%E0%A8%BE%E0%A8%B0-%E0%A8%AA%E0%A9%81%E0%A8%B0%E0%A8%AC-%E0%A8%A4%E0%A9%87-%E0%A8%B5%E0%A8%BF%E0%A8%B8/

In Purnia, Bihar, a unique tradition exists where the National Flag is hoisted at 12:01 AM on the night of August 14th at Jhanda Chowk. This tradition dates back to 1947, when freedom fighter Rameshwar Prasad Singh and his companions hoisted the tricolor immediately after hearing news of India's independence on the radio. Even today, hundreds of people gather at midnight to celebrate this historic moment with the national anthem and slogans. https://punjab.news18.com/photogallery/lifestyle/independence-day-2026-the-tricolor-is-hoisted-only-at-this-place-in-india-on-14th-august-know-the-reason-ak-993803.html

A high-tension situation erupted during a Congress party meeting in Khanna, Punjab, as supporters of former CM Charanjit Singh Channi were reportedly barred from entering. The incident led to a heated confrontation and loud sloganeering in favor of Channi outside the venue, highlighting ongoing internal rifts within the state unit of the Congress party. https://punjab.news18.com/videos/punjab/khanna-news-punjab-congress-meeting-news18-993946.html

Tensions have risen within the Punjab BJP following the appointment of Kewal Singh Dhillon as State President and new district heads. Veteran party leaders are protesting against the prioritization of newcomers from other parties over long-term loyalists. Protests erupted in Patiala, and several mandal presidents resigned in Faridkot. While senior leaders aim to resolve the issue, the internal rebellion poses a significant challenge ahead of the elections. https://www.punjabitribuneonline.com/news/punjab/a-challenge-of-its-own-making-for-the-bjp/

The daily Hukamnama from Sachkhand Sri Harmandir Sahib features a hymn by Guru Teg Bahadur Ji in Raag Sorath. The verse emphasizes seeking refuge in the Divine, citing historical examples of Ganika, Dhru, and Ajamal who were saved through meditation. It encourages devotees to remember the Lord to overcome worldly suffering and achieve spiritual liberation. https://www.etvbharat.com/pa/hukamnama/daily-hukamnama-from-sri-darbar-sahib-9-august-2026-amrit-wele-da-hukamnama-pbs26080900242

Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann has written to Governor Gulab Chand Kataria seeking 10-day humanitarian parole for Jagtar Singh Hawara to visit his ailing mother. Hawara, convicted in the 1995 Beant Singh assassination case, is serving a life sentence. The CM's appeal follows directions from the Punjab and Haryana High Court to consider Hawara's parole application sympathetically due to his mother's deteriorating health. https://propunjabtv.com/cm-bhagwant-mann-demands-parole-for-jagtar-singh-hawara/

A panel formed by Akal Takht regarding the 'Jagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026' has demanded a compliance report from the Punjab government on the June 29 orders. The panel, including retired justices and scholars, stated that the government's previous response failed to address concerns about interference in Sikh religious matters. They criticized the government for not forming its own panel yet and for its non-constructive approach toward resolving sacrilege issues. https://www.punjabitribuneonline.com/news/amritsar/akal-takht-formed-panel-seeks-compliance-report-on-june-29-orders-before-further-talks-with-punjab-government/