asd
Home Blog Page 106

ULFA-I Claims Responsibility for Assam Rifles Ambush in Tinsukia’s Namdang


1. Today, a convoy of three Assam Rifles vehicles faced a brazen ambush near Namdhang.
2. The attack occurred between 8 and 8:30 am on April 16 while en route from Changlang to Margherita.
3. Despite the surprise assault, the troops effectively retaliated, preventing additional harm.


Guwahati, April 16: In a brazen attack today, a convoy of three Assam Rifles vehicles was ambushed near Namdhang while en route from Changlang to Margherita between 8 and 8:30 am on April 16.

Despite the surprise attack, the troops retaliated effectively, averting further damage. However, Hawaldar Om Prakash, one of the jawans, sustained bullet injuries during the encounter.

Responsibility for the attack was claimed in a press statement by Rumel Axom, a self-proclaimed captain of ULFA-I. Rumel Axom alleged that several 13th Assam Rifles vehicles were damaged, and multiple soldiers were seriously injured.

He further claimed that media access to the area was restricted by security forces, ostensibly to hide the true extent of the damage.

However, this claim is reportedly contradicted by the sight of wounded soldiers being airlifted for medical attention, according to ULFA-I’s account.

The defence establishment has not officially responded to ULFA-I’s claims yet. However, defence apparatus insiders have denied the accusations of media censorship.


Also Read: Supreme Court Rebukes Yoga Guru Ramdev Once More: “You’re Not Innocent”

They underscored the importance of guaranteeing the safety and security of the affected personnel and addressing the current operational necessities.

Meanwhile, Assam Rifles, while responding to the incident, stated, “A vehicle-mounted patrol of three vehicles of Assam Rifles moving from Changlang towards Margherita was ambushed by unknown personnel near Namdhang at around 08:30 am on 16 April 24. The troops retaliated and thwarted the ambush. In the process, one person sustained Gun gunshot wounds. The individual has been evacuated to Military Hospital Jorhat, and his condition is stable. Further details will follow”.

The ambush near Namdhang has brought to light the unstable security circumstances in the region, especially along the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border.

The incident, with contrasting accounts from defence sources and insurgent groups, underscores the difficulties encountered by security forces in tackling militancy while ensuring transparency and information dissemination.

Supreme Court Rebukes Yoga Guru Ramdev Once More: “You’re Not Innocent”


1. Supreme Court criticizes Baba Ramdev for Patanjali Ayurved’s misleading ads.
2. Ramdev apologizes, acknowledging past errors and vowing caution.
3. The next hearing is scheduled for April 23.


New Delhi, April 16: The Supreme Court rebukes Baba Ramdev, emphasizing his culpability in the contempt case regarding Patanjali Ayurved’s misleading advertisements.

Ramdev offers an unconditional apology during the hearing, acknowledging past mistakes and promising caution in the future.

Despite the apology, the bench asserts that the law applies equally to all and expresses skepticism about the sincerity of the apology.

Justices Kohli and Amanullah question the genuineness of the apology, highlighting the repeated violations and irresponsible behavior of Patanjali Ayurved.

The Supreme Court previously dismissed an unconditional apology from Ramdev and Balkrishna, labeling their actions as “wilful, deliberate, and repeated violations” of court orders.


Also Read: Meghalaya’s Election Commissioner Confident Despite Weather and Geographical Hurdles Ahead of Polls

The Indian Medical Association’s petition against Patanjali Ayurved prompts harsh criticism from the court, questioning the seriousness of contempt proceedings.

The Uttarakhand government faces censure for licensing Patanjali products, with the court questioning the authority’s decision and objecting to the term ‘bonafide’ used for officials.

The court sets the next date for hearing on April 23, indicating continued scrutiny of Patanjali Ayurved’s conduct and the government’s regulatory actions

Meghalaya’s Election Commissioner Confident Despite Weather and Geographical Hurdles Ahead of Polls


1. Meghalaya’s election commissioner, BDR Tiwari, reviews readiness for polls, noting potential challenges.
2. Tiwari highlights issues with non-motorable polling stations in Khasi Hills due to rugged terrain.
3. Despite challenges, electoral authorities in Meghalaya ensure preparedness to overcome obstacles.


Shillong, April 16: With the polls looming, Meghalaya’s state election commissioner, BDR Tiwari, recently assessed the election readiness, acknowledging potential challenges.

In particular, Tiwari shed light on the unique difficulties posed by non-motorable polling stations in the Khasi Hills region, known for its rugged terrain and heavy rainfall.

Highlighting Meghalaya’s hilly terrain and inclement weather, Tiwari underscored the numerous obstacles faced by electoral authorities. Despite these challenges, Tiwari assured that preparations are in place to address them effectively.


Also Read: Bus Accident in Odisha’s Jajpur Leaves 5 Dead, 40 Injured

Approximately 50 polling stations in the area are inaccessible by vehicles due to their non-motorable nature.

However, Tiwari reassured the public that measures have been taken to ensure a smooth electoral process, even in these remote locations.

Tiwari emphasized the authorities’ readiness to tackle adverse weather conditions, reaffirming their commitment to conducting the elections seamlessly.

Bus Accident in Odisha’s Jajpur Leaves 5 Dead, 40 Injured


1. Five killed, 40 injured as bus plunges off bridge in Odisha’s Jajpur District.
2. The incident occurred on NH-16 near Barabati; the bus was en route to Kolkata.
3. Approximately 50 passengers were aboard the vehicle at the time of the accident.


Jajpur, April 16: Five people, including one woman, were killed and nearly 40 were injured when a bus en route to Kolkata fell off a bridge in the Jajpur District of Odisha on Monday evening.

Around 50 passengers were on the bus and it slipped off the flyover on NH- 16 on the National Highway near Barabati in the Jajpur district of Odisha. It was going to Digha in West Bengal from Cuttack.

40 people are injured, and 30 of them are being taken to Cuttack SCB Medical College. There’s a platoon of croakers available for treatment.


Also Read: Assam Rifles Vehicle Ambushed by Armed Miscreants in Tinsukia’s Namdang Area

The injured including women and children have been brought to Cuttack. We used 16 ambulances to make this.

The deliverance operation has stopped. With this, the machine was hoisted with a crane.

Nikhil Pavan Kalyan, Collector and District Magistrate of Jajpur, reported that gas knives had been used to cut through the essence to prize the passengers.

“We were at the nearest machine stage, we set up that the machine motorist was driving recklessly and moving the bus aimlessly. We suppose the motorist was drinking liquor while driving,” said the original.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed remorse over this accident. He blazoned anex-gratia quantum of Rs 3 lakh each for the families of the departed.

Assam Rifles Vehicle Ambushed by Armed Miscreants in Tinsukia’s Namdang Area


1. Armed miscreants attacked Assam Rifles vehicle in Tinsukia’s Namdang area.
2. An incident occurred on Changlang Road in Margherita during the early hours.
3. Assailants initiated assault by opening fire; their identities remain unknown.


Guwahati, April 16: In the early hours of Tuesday, armed miscreants launched a brazen attack on an Assam Rifles vehicle carrying a patrol team in the Namdang area of Tinsukia, situated on the Changlang road in Margherita.

Reports indicate that the assailants, who remain unidentified at this time, initiated the assault by opening fire on the Assam Rifles vehicle. The attack resulted in a chaotic scene, with heavy gunfire continuing as security forces responded to the aggression.

Initial assessments suggest that the perpetrators behind the attack may be suspected cadres affiliated with the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN).

The incident has raised concerns about security in the region, particularly along the volatile Changlang road.

The Assam Rifles, a paramilitary force deployed in the region, plays a crucial role in maintaining law and order and safeguarding the integrity of India’s borders in the northeastern states.


Also Read: Fresh Snowfall Transforms Sonamarg in J&K’s Ganderbal District – Must-See Video

However, incidents like these underscore the persistent challenges faced by security forces in combating insurgency and maintaining stability in the region.

Authorities are likely to launch a comprehensive investigation into the incident to identify and apprehend the perpetrators responsible for the attack.

Additionally, efforts will be made to enhance security measures along vulnerable routes to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The attack serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing security threats faced by security personnel operating in the region and highlights the need for continued vigilance and coordinated efforts to address insurgency and maintain peace and stability in the northeastern states.

Fresh Snowfall Transforms Sonamarg in J&K’s Ganderbal District – Must-See Video


1. Sonamarg, a popular tourist destination in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, is covered in fresh snowfall.
2. The recent snowfall has brought back the winter chill to Kashmir, with moderate rainfall and further cooling temperatures across the Valley.
3. The serene landscape of Sonamarg is now adorned with pristine white snow, creating picturesque views for visitors.


Sonamarg, April 16: Fresh snowfall blanketed Sonamarg, a renowned tourist spot in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, painting the landscape in pristine white hues.

The recent spell of snowfall brought back the winter chill to Kashmir, with moderate rainfall lowering temperatures across the Valley over the past two days.

Picturesque scenes from Sonamarg showcased tranquil vistas adorned with the untouched beauty of newly fallen snow.

However, the idyllic scenery also brought disruptions, as landslides triggered by heavy rains at Kishtwari Pather in Banihal led to the closure of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway for vehicular traffic.

“NH-44 blocked due to Heavy landslide at Kishtwari Pather. People are advised to avoid journey,” cautioned the Jammu and Kashmir Traffic Police.


Also Read: Tripura CM Foresees INDI Alliance’s Museum Placement Soon

The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway serves as the vital artery connecting the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country, making its closure a significant inconvenience for commuters.

According to meteorological forecasts, light to moderate rain and snowfall in higher reaches are expected in Kashmir until April 16.

From April 17 to 18, generally, dry weather conditions are anticipated, albeit with the possibility of isolated late afternoon thundershowers in some areas.

Subsequently, partly cloudy weather with light rain or snow in upper reaches is forecasted for numerous locations during the evening of April 19 through the morning of April 20.

Tripura CM Foresees INDI Alliance’s Museum Placement Soon


1. Tripura CM Manik Saha forecasts the end of the INDI alliance, anticipating strong support for BJP candidates.
2. Dr. Saha highlights peaceful 2023 elections in Tripura, underscoring people’s faith in the BJP.
3. Addressing an election rally, Dr. Saha asserts BJP’s growing popularity in Tripura.


Agartala, April 16: Tripura Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha predicts the imminent demise of the INDI alliance, comprising the CPIM and Congress, asserting that it will soon become a relic in a museum as people eagerly rally behind BJP candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

Speaking at an election campaign in support of BJP candidate Biplab Kumar Deb in Banamalipur Assembly Constituency, Dr. Saha emphasized the absence of violence during the 2023 elections in Tripura.

He cited the peaceful conduct of the Boxanagar and Dhanpur By-elections, both won by the BJP, as evidence of public trust in PM Modi’s Sabka Saath Sabka Viswas initiative.

Highlighting the overwhelming support witnessed during the nomination filing ceremonies of BJP candidates, Dr. Saha confidently predicted victory for the BJP on June 4, citing the palpable desires of the people.


Also Read: Iran warns of deploying ‘unprecedented weapons’ if Israel retaliates

During a roadshow at Bardowali Assembly Constituency on the same day, Dr. Saha criticized the opposition for identifying themselves as the CPIM-Congress alliance and resorting to the term INDI alliance.

Accusing the CPIM of the 10,323 issues, Dr. Saha condemned the alliance as an “unholy” collaboration, likening the CPIM and Congress to “carbon copies” responsible for past instances of violence in the state.

He contrasted the BJP’s commitment to overall development with the alleged corruption and scandals during the UPA government, emphasizing PM Modi’s zero-tolerance stance against corruption since 2014.

Dr. Saha confidently asserted that the INDI alliance would soon fade into obscurity, finding its place in a museum as a relic of the past.

He expressed conviction that the next generation would learn of the CPIM and Congress’s existence from history books, emphasizing their dwindling popular support and the electorate’s eagerness to vote for BJP candidates.

Iran warns of deploying ‘unprecedented weapons’ if Israel retaliates


1. Israel’s military chief vows a response to Iran’s recent attack amid heightened tensions.
2. Tehran issues a warning of deploying unprecedented weapons as tensions escalate.
3. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gathers the war cabinet to chart the country’s response strategy.


Tehran, April 16: Amid escalating tensions, Israel’s military chief pledges a response to Iran’s recent attack, while Tehran warns of deploying unprecedented weapons.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convenes the war cabinet to determine the country’s course of action in response to Iran’s aggression.

Israel asserts its commitment to defending itself, with military officials emphasizing a measured yet decisive response to Iran’s missile and drone assault.

Iran, on the other hand, vows swift retaliation, asserting its readiness to deploy previously unused weaponry if provoked by Israel.

International pressure mounts on Israel to exercise restraint and pursue diplomatic solutions to avoid further escalation in the region.

The United States urges Israel to consider the broader implications of its actions, emphasizing the importance of preventing a full-scale conflict with Iran.

China expresses confidence in Iran’s ability to manage the situation while safeguarding regional stability, advocating for a peaceful resolution.

Russia calls for restraint from all parties involved, emphasizing the need to avoid further escalation and preserve stability in the region.

The Group of Seven (G7) nations working on coordinated measures against Iran in response to the drone attack on Israel, led by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.


Also Read: Odisha’s Swabhiman Anchal to Witness Polling Booths Positioned Away from Security Camps

Israeli authorities eased some emergency measures imposed in response to the crisis but maintain a heightened state of readiness amid ongoing tensions.

1. Israeli Response Imminent: Military Chief and Government in Deliberation

Israel’s military chief, Herzi Halevi, affirmed the country’s intent to respond to Iran’s weekend attack, awaiting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision. Iran, on the other hand, pledged swift retaliation, highlighting escalating tensions in the region.

2. Iranian Strike Provokes Israeli War Cabinet Meeting

Following Iran’s direct attack on Israel, Netanyahu convened the war cabinet for deliberations on the appropriate response. While no decisions have been announced, the Israeli government remains on high alert amidst growing concerns over further escalation.

3. Diplomatic Dialogue and International Pressure

The Israeli Prime Minister’s office reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to defending itself, emphasizing diplomatic efforts to address the crisis. Amidst international pressure to de-escalate, the United States urged restraint, emphasizing the need to prevent a full-scale war in the region.

4. Iran’s Preparedness and Global Response

Iran asserted its readiness to deploy unprecedented weaponry in response to any Israeli strikes, signaling heightened tensions. While China expressed confidence in Iran’s ability to manage the situation, the G7 nations coordinated measures against Iran, underlining the gravity of the crisis.

5. Israeli Measures and Regional Alert

Meanwhile, Israeli authorities lifted some emergency measures imposed in response to the situation, although the country remains on high alert. The easing of restrictions comes amidst ongoing tensions, reflecting the precarious situation in the region.

The exchange of threats between Israel and Iran underscores the fragile state of affairs in the Middle East.

With diplomatic efforts underway and international pressure mounting, the region teeters on the brink of further escalation.

The coming days will be critical in determining the trajectory of the crisis and the potential for peace and stability in the region

Odisha’s Swabhiman Anchal to Witness Polling Booths Positioned Away from Security Camps


1. Election Commission to establish 30 polling booths in Odisha’s Swabhiman Anchal.
2. Former Maoist stronghold sees strategic changes in booth placement.
3. The aim is to encourage higher voter turnout in upcoming elections.


Bhubaneswar, April 16: In a significant development for Odisha’s Swabhiman Anchal, the Election Commission of India plans to establish approximately 30 polling booths for the upcoming Lok Sabha and assembly elections.

This region, once considered a stronghold of Maoist insurgents, has witnessed strategic adjustments in polling booth placement aimed at facilitating greater voter participation.

Previously, polling booths in Swabhiman Anchal were positioned near Border Security Force (BSF) camps as a security measure against Maoist threats.

However, this proximity to security installations inadvertently deterred voters from exercising their franchise due to safety concerns. In 2019, this deterrent effect was evident as at least 12 booths recorded zero polling amidst Maoist intimidation tactics, including threats of violence against voters.

Over the years, Swabhiman Anchal has faced persistent challenges related to Maoist violence, with instances of polling disruption and voter intimidation occurring in multiple election cycles.


Also Read: Sikkim Election 2024: Majority of Candidates Millionaires, Analysis Shows

Despite security measures, such as the deployment of elite anti-Maoist forces like the Greyhounds, incidents like the sinking of a motorboat in Balimela reservoir in 2008 and landmine blasts in 2012 underscored the region’s volatile security landscape.

However, recent developments indicate a shift in the security dynamics of Malkangiri district, where Swabhiman Anchal is located.

The absence of reported Maoist violence in the past eighteen months, coupled with the dwindling presence of Maoist activity along the Andhra-Odisha border, has prompted a reassessment of polling booth arrangements.

Consequently, the decision to relocate polling booths to villages within Swabhiman Anchal reflects a strategic pivot towards enhancing voter accessibility and engagement.

The move to establish polling booths within villages signifies a departure from previous strategies aimed primarily at fortifying security perimeters.

This proactive approach aligns with efforts to mitigate historical obstacles to electoral participation and promote democratic inclusivity in conflict-affected regions.

Additionally, it underscores the Election Commission’s commitment to ensuring the integrity of the electoral process while accommodating the unique security challenges faced by Swabhiman Anchal.

However, despite the positive outlook, security remains a paramount concern, especially given the impending elections and the potential for heightened Maoist activity during this period.

Law enforcement agencies are on high alert, with stringent operational plans in place to preempt any attempts by Maoist elements to disrupt the electoral process.

Cooperation from all stakeholders, including local communities, will be pivotal in bolstering security measures and safeguarding the electoral integrity of Swabhiman Anchal.

As preparations for the upcoming elections continue, stakeholders remain vigilant, recognizing the imperative of upholding democratic principles in the face of security challenges.

The relocation of polling booths represents a proactive step towards fostering greater civic engagement and resilience in Swabhiman Anchal, signaling a hopeful trajectory towards sustained peace and stability in the region.

Sikkim Election 2024: Majority of Candidates Millionaires, Analysis Shows


1. Wealth plays a major role: 70% of Sikkim candidates are millionaires.
2. Association for Democratic Reforms and Sikkim Election Watch analysis reveals.
3. 146 candidates analyzed, highlighting significant financial influence in politics.


Gangtok, April 16: In the upcoming Sikkim Legislative Assembly elections, wealth seems to play a significant role, with the majority of candidates being millionaires, according to an analysis by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and Sikkim Election Watch.

Out of the 146 candidates contesting in the 2024 elections, a staggering 102 (70 percent) are millionaires, showcasing the influence of wealth in politics.

This trend reflects a significant increase compared to the 2019 elections, where 43 percent of the candidates were millionaires out of a total of 150 candidates. Wealth is a common denominator among candidates from various political parties, with most major parties fielding affluent individuals.

Among the analyzed candidates, those from the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) lead the wealth spectrum, with 97 percent of their candidates being millionaires.

The Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) follows closely, with 88 percent of their candidates falling into the millionaire category. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Citizen Action Party also have a high percentage of millionaire candidates, at 68 percent and 57 percent respectively.

The wealthiest candidates in the fray include Delay Namgyal Barfungpa of SKM with assets worth 137 crore rupees, followed by Bhaichung Bhutia of SDF with assets worth 127 crore rupees.

There has been a notable increase in the assets of candidates contesting again since the 2019 elections, with an average increase of 8.61 crore rupees among 19 returning legislators.


Also Read: Manipur CM Blames Congress for Current State Affairs

Notably, Kunga Nima Lepcha from SKM and Sanjeet Kharel from SKM have seen substantial asset growth since 2019.

However, the analysis also reveals a concerning trend regarding criminal cases among candidates. Five percent of the candidates have declared criminal cases against themselves, while four percent have declared serious criminal cases.

This indicates a slight increase compared to the 2019 elections, where three percent had criminal cases against them.

In terms of educational qualifications, 41 percent of candidates have declared qualifications between 5th and 12th grade.

Additionally, gender representation remains low, with only 10 percent of the candidates being female. This mirrors the gender ratio in the 2019 elections, indicating a persistent challenge in achieving gender parity in politics.

Overall, the analysis sheds light on the financial backgrounds and legal histories of candidates contesting in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly elections, highlighting both the prevalence of wealth in politics and the need for greater diversity and transparency in candidate selection processes.

- Advertisement -