Punjab bandh was scheduled from 7 am to 2 pm on Friday. (Source: File)

A statewide bandh called by the Qaumi Insaf Morcha is being held in Punjab today to press for the release of Sikh prisoners who have completed their sentences. In Moga, police have deployed heavy security to prevent any disruption, with Inspector Gurwinder Singh Bhullar saying emergency services would continue to function. He urged protesters to remain peaceful and said there was no need for the public to panic. The bandh was scheduled from 7 am to 2 pm, but heavy rain had delayed the arrival of protesters in the area. Emergency vehicles, including ambulances, as well as people travelling for weddings and funerals, would be allowed to pass. The Morcha has appealed to schools and colleges to remain closed.

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Kurla crane accident

Eight people were injured after a crane collapsed in Qureshi Nagar in Mumbai’s Kurla on Friday, officials said. According to the Junior Engineer of L Ward who was present at the site, the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority was preparing to carry out an eviction and demolition drive in the area. The accident took place while the crane was being mounted with the help of a Poclain machine. Six injured persons were admitted to Sion Hospital, while two others were taken to Kurla Bhabha Hospital. Information about their condition is still awaited.

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Pakistan ex-PM Imran Khan shifted to Islamabad hospital

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan was shifted to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad from jail early on Friday for a medical examination, according to his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party. This came after a long-standing demand from Khan’s supporters, who have raised concerns about his deteriorating health during his three years in prison. Later, news agency Reuters, citing a television channel, reported that he had been taken back to prison from the hospital. However, there has been no official confirmation of his return to prison.

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