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Assam’s largest family with 350 voters set to cast their votes


1. Assam’s largest family, the Thapa family, boasting 350 eligible voters, prepares to cast their votes.
2. Despite facing socioeconomic challenges, they are determined to influence the political narrative in the region.
3. Their collective voice reflects a significant force in shaping the outcome of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.


Guwahati, April 15: Assam’s largest family, the Thapa family, with 350 eligible voters is set to cast their votes in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The family is ready to influence the political narrative in the region despite facing socioeconomic challenges.

The family of the late Ron Bahadur Thapa, located in the heart of Assam’s Sonitpur District, is home to the renowned Thapa family.

This is recognized as one of the largest families with approximately 350 eligible voters preparing to exercise their franchise during the inaugural phase of polling for the Lok Sabha on April 19. Thapa family’s political influence is set to make waves in the region.

Ron Bahadur Thapa who settled in the state in 1964, has 12 sons, 9 daughters and more than 150 grandchildren.

Til Bahadur Thapa the village headman and the son of Ron Bahadur, is spreading light on their family legacies, reowning his father’s journey and the vast network of descendants spread across generations.

Despite facing socioeconomic challenges the family is ready to change the political narrative in the region. They face a lack of government support and opportunity for their members.


Also Read: Tripura Implements Voter Help Line in All Assembly Constituencies, Appoints Complaint Redressal Officers

Til Bahadur expressed disappointment over the family’s inability to benefit from state and central welfare schemes, they mentioned the struggles faced in many cases, like securing employment and access to education.

Sarki Bahadur Thapa, another son of Ron Bahadur, revealed that the Thapa family clan have more than 1200 members with approximately 350 eligible voters.

The Thapa family continues to navigate the absence of the head of the house, who passed away in 1997, leaving behind their legacy.

Sonitpur Lok Sabha seat encompasses over 16.25lakh voters across 9 assembly segments, the impending election holds substantial significance for both political contenders and the Thapa family.

Assam’s Lok Sabha elections will be conducted in three phases, scheduled for April 19, April 26 and May 7.

Tripura Implements Voter Help Line in All Assembly Constituencies, Appoints Complaint Redressal Officers


1. Tripura establishes a Voter Help Line in all 60 Assembly Constituencies for Lok Sabha elections.
2. The aim is to provide a centralized system for addressing voter queries and complaints
3. The initiative targets smoother operations during the upcoming General Election.


Agartala, April 15: Tripura has taken a proactive step to ensure smooth operations during the General Election to the Lok Sabha by establishing a Voter Help Line in all 60 Assembly Constituencies.

This initiative aims to provide voters and political parties with a centralized system to address their queries, issues, and complaints.

Under the directive of Chief Electoral Officer Puneet Agarwal, each Assembly Segment now has a dedicated Complaint Redressal Officer (CRO) responsible for managing the Voter Help Line.

These officers, appointed by the Assistant Returning Officer (ARO), oversee mobile numbers equipped with WhatsApp for communication.

They are tasked with recording complaints, addressing them promptly, and assigning suitable officers or teams to resolve them.


Also Read: BJP Files Complaint Against SKM for MCC Violation in Sikkim Election Campaign

Additionally, the designated CROs are entrusted with monitoring social media handles associated with their respective Assembly Segments.

They keep track of any news or issues circulating on platforms like Twitter and Facebook, taking appropriate action as needed.

This multifaceted approach ensures that concerns raised via social media are promptly addressed alongside traditional channels.

To streamline the process further, the Complaint Redressal Officers have been granted authority to collaborate with various civil and police sector officers, including Flying Squads, Static Surveillance teams, and Officer-in-Charges of police stations.

This collaboration enables swift action on complaints received through the Voter Help Line, ensuring efficient resolution under the supervision of the Assistant Returning Officer and Returning Officer.

By establishing this comprehensive framework, Tripura aims to uphold the integrity of the electoral process, address concerns in real time, and foster greater transparency and accountability in the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections.

BJP Files Complaint Against SKM for MCC Violation in Sikkim Election Campaign


1. BJP accuses SKM of MCC breach in Sikkim’s 2024 election campaign.
2. Complaint filed with Gangtok police over alleged SKM event misconduct.
3. The incident involves students at Mannan Kendra during the SKM political rally.


Gangtok, April 15: With the General and State Assembly Election 2024 looming in Sikkim, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has taken a stand against the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM), accusing them of breaching the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) during a recent political event.

The complaint, lodged with the station head of Gangtok’s AF Police Station, recounts an incident at Mannan Kendra in Gangtok, where students were purportedly invited to partake in a political campaign organized by the SKM.

Allegedly, the students were left unattended by the organizers until as late as 12:30 am.

Dinesh Chandra Nepal, accompanied by Niren Bhandar and Lalit Pokhrel Sharma, visited the venue to verify the situation. Subsequently, they alerted the Election Commission of India (ECI) about the issue and demanded clarification regarding the students’ claims for compensation.


Also Read: Iran Grants Permission for Indian Authorities to Meet Crew of Seized Ship

Intervention from the SKM’s Student Wing President, Chopel Sherpa, and Tshering Wangchuk, alongside their team, ensued, assuring the students’ safety and security in the presence of Gangtok’s Deputy Commissioner (DC) and Superintendent of Police (SP).

The BJP, in its formal complaint, holds the SKM accountable for any potential adverse incidents affecting the students, emphasizing their pivotal role in shaping the state and national future.

Urging stringent actions based on vigilance evidence, the complaint advocates for measures such as the cancellation of registrations and nominations if culpability is established.

Iran Grants Permission for Indian Authorities to Meet Crew of Seized Ship


1. Indian authorities permitted to meet 17 Indian crew of a seized cargo ship in the Gulf.
2. Iranian Foreign Minister assures during a phone call with the Indian counterpart.
3. A press release from the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirms the assurance.


Tehran, April 15: Indian authorities allowed to meet the 17 Indian crew of the seized cargo ship with Israel links, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian announced late This week, that Iranian commanders are in the Gulf of Hormuz.

Amir-Abdollahian gave this assurance in a telephone conversation with his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar on Sunday evening, as read in the press release of the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

During the meeting, Jaishankar secured the release of the Indian crew of the cargo ship MSC Aries.

“We are monitoring the details of the seized ship and representatives of the Indian government may meet with the ship’s crew soon.”

Readers said that Jaishankar “expressed concern over the condition of the 17 Indian crew members on the ship seized by Iran” and sought Iran’s help in this regard.

Indian officials said that a few hours later, the ship was seized by a special unit of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), approximately 80 kilometers off the coast of the Arab League (UAE), and that they were in talks with them, Iranian counterparts.


Also Read: Anand Mahindra Praises Odisha’s Free Cancer Centre: ‘Let’s Share This Initiative’

For the safety and early evacuation of 17 Indian nationals from the ship’s 25 crew. There were 17 Indians, including the captain, on the Portuguese-Israeli-flagged cargo ship.

The crew also includes four Filipinos, two Pakistanis, a Russian and an Estonian.

Italian-Swiss shipping group MSC said it was “working closely with the relevant authorities” to ensure the welfare of workers. The ship is affiliated with London-based Zodiac Maritime, which is part of Israeli billionaire Eyal Ofer’s Zodiac.

Since the beginning of the conflict between Israel and Hamas, India has taken various measures to protect Indian ships and personnel from attacks by Iranian forces, such as the Houthi rebels in Yemen.

India on Friday issued an advisory asking its citizens not to travel to Iran or Israel after tensions between the two sides escalated. He also asked all Indian citizens living in the two countries to follow “strict precautions”.

Anand Mahindra Praises Odisha’s Free Cancer Centre: ‘Let’s Share This Initiative’


1. Arun Bothra, an IPS officer, shared images of a new free cancer center in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
2. The center aims to provide compassionate care for advanced cancer patients, end-of-life care, and respite care.
3. Anand Mahindra praised the initiative and urged people to raise awareness about the center’s services.


Bhubaneswar, April 15: Indian Police Service officer Arun Bothra recently shared images of a newly opened free cancer centre in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The post caught the attention of Anand Mahindra.

The cancer centre is aimed at providing compassionate care for advanced cancer patients, end-of-life care, and respite care needs.

The post caught the attention of Anand Mahindra, who commended the initiative and encouraged others to spread awareness about the center’s services to those in need.

He expressed admiration for the project’s humane and generous nature, acknowledging the efforts of Subroto and Susmita in making a positive impact on their state and country.


Also Read: Amit Shah Set to Rally in Tripura and Troubled Manipur Ahead of Lok Sabha Elections

Mahindra’s message garnered significant user engagement, with many users praising the noble initiative.

Some shared their experiences with similar facilities elsewhere, highlighting the importance of such selfless service in providing support to those facing terminal illnesses.

Overall, the response to the free cancer center initiative was overwhelmingly positive, with users expressing gratitude and admiration for the dedicated team working to improve the lives of cancer patients and their families during challenging times.

Amit Shah Set to Rally in Tripura and Troubled Manipur Ahead of Lok Sabha Elections


1. Union Home Minister Amit Shah to campaign in Manipur ahead of 2024 Lok Sabha polls.
2. Scheduled to address public rallies in Tripura and Manipur.
3. Focus on rallying support for BJP candidates in both states.


Imphal, April 15: Union Home Minister Amit Shah is slated to embark on a campaign trail in Manipur on Monday, April 15, ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

His itinerary includes addressing public rallies in both Tripura and Manipur, with a focus on garnering support for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidates in these regions.

Shah’s journey commenced with his arrival in Agartala on Sunday night, where he spent the night before proceeding with his campaign activities.

His first engagement on Monday is slated to be an election rally in the Tripura East Lok Sabha seat, scheduled to take place at Kumarghat in Unakoti district.

This event is expected to witness the presence of prominent political figures such as Chief Minister Manik Saha, Tipra Motha chief Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma, IPFT president Prem Kumar Reang, and BJP nominee Kriti Devi Debbarman.

Following his rally in Tripura, Shah is scheduled to travel to Manipur to continue his campaign efforts. Upon arriving in Imphal, he is set to engage in meetings with Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, Manipur BJP President

A Sharda Devi, and other key party leaders. Subsequently, Shah will address the public in Imphal to seek support for Thounaojam Basanta Kumar Singh, BJP’s candidate from the Inner Manipur Lok Sabha constituency and the state’s education minister.

The Inner Manipur Lok Sabha segment comprises 32 assembly constituencies within the conflict-prone Imphal valley.


Also Read: Supreme Court to Hear Arvind Kejriwal’s Plea Against ED Arrest in Delhi Excise Policy Case

While the BJP has refrained from fielding a candidate in the Outer Manipur segment, it has pledged support to candidates nominated by the Naga People’s Front (NPF), its ally within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

Manipur has been grappling with ethnic violence since May 3, 2023, following a tribal solidarity march organized in the state’s hill districts to protest against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.

The unrest has resulted in numerous casualties and displacements, underscoring the significance of Shah’s visit and the BJP’s campaign efforts in restoring stability and securing electoral support in the region.

As Shah takes the podium in Tripura and Manipur, his speeches and interactions are anticipated to resonate with voters, outlining the BJP’s vision and promises for the development and welfare of these states.

The outcome of his engagements will not only shape the electoral landscape but also influence the trajectory of political dynamics in the Northeastern region of India.

Supreme Court to Hear Arvind Kejriwal’s Plea Against ED Arrest in Delhi Excise Policy Case


1. Delhi excise policy case involves corruption and money laundering allegations in the government’s policy.
2. Arvind Kejriwal, Delhi’s Chief Minister, was arrested by the ED on March 21.
3. The arrest is linked to a money laundering probe concerning irregularities in the excise policy.


New Delhi, April 15: The Delhi excise policy case revolves around allegations of corruption and money laundering concerning the formulation and implementation of the Delhi government’s excise policy for 2021-22.

Arvind Kejriwal’s Arrest

Arvind Kejriwal, the Chief Minister of Delhi, was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on March 21 in connection with the money laundering probe related to the alleged irregularities in the excise policy.

He was subsequently remanded to judicial custody until April 15. Kejriwal’s arrest marks the first instance of a sitting Chief Minister being apprehended in such a case.

Legal Proceedings

The Delhi High Court upheld the validity of Kejriwal’s arrest, stating that the ED had sufficient evidence to justify it.

The court emphasized that the arrest was a consequence of Kejriwal’s non-cooperation with the investigation, noting that he had failed to appear before the agency despite nine summonses.

Current Status

The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear Kejriwal’s plea challenging his arrest and subsequent detention by the ED. The bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta will preside over the proceedings.


Also Read: US refutes Iran’s warning claim as Israel considers retaliatory action

Other Figures Involved

Alongside Kejriwal, other prominent members of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have also been implicated in the excise policy case.

Manish Sisodia, another AAP leader, has been in custody since February last year. Sanjay Singh, who was also arrested in connection with the case, was recently granted bail.

Details of the Excise Policy

The excise policy in question aimed to rejuvenate Delhi’s liquor industry by replacing the sales-volume-based system with a license fee for traders.

It promised improved liquor stores, free from the traditional metal grilles, to enhance the shopping experience for consumers. However, the policy was revoked shortly after Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena requested a CBI investigation into alleged irregularities.

Allegations Against AAP Leaders

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the ED alleged that AAP leaders received kickbacks totaling ₹100 crores from politicians and liquor businessmen to grant licenses under the excise policy.

They also claimed the involvement of a group known as the ‘South Group’ in the purported irregularities.

Kejriwal’s name was mentioned in the chargesheet, alleging that he was in communication with the accused individuals to formulate the excise policy, leading to undue benefits in exchange for kickbacks.

As the legal battle unfolds, the Supreme Court’s decision regarding Kejriwal’s plea will have significant ramifications on the ongoing investigation and the political landscape in Delhi.

US refutes Iran’s advance warning claim as Israel considers retaliatory action


1. The Middle East faces a heightened risk of conflict as Iran and Israel engage in retaliatory actions.
2. Iran’s significant drone and missile attack on Israel on April 13 follows an Israeli strike on its embassy compound in Syria.
3. Tensions escalate as both nations resort to military measures in a dangerous tit-for-tat.


Washington, D.C., April 15: The Middle East teeters on the edge of a potentially catastrophic conflict as Iran and Israel escalate tensions through retaliatory measures.

On April 13, Iran launched a substantial drone and missile assault on Israel in response to an Israeli strike on its embassy compound in Syria.

Iran’s Foreign Minister, Hossein Amirabdollahian, claimed that Iran had provided a 72-hour notice to neighboring countries and the United States before the attack. However, a senior official from the Biden administration refuted this claim, stating that the US had not received any prior warning from Iran.

Here are the latest developments:

  • Turkish, Jordanian, and Iraqi officials asserted that Iran had indeed given advance notice of the strike on Israel to neighboring countries and the United States.
  • However, a senior official in the Biden administration denied these assertions, stating that Washington did not receive any warning from Tehran until after the attack had begun.
  • According to reports from ABC News, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) presented several military response options to the government led by Benjamin Netanyahu following the Iranian attack. These options range from retaliatory strikes to refraining from immediate action, with the Israeli war cabinet reportedly divided over the timing and scale of a potential response.
  • Israeli military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari emphasized that Israel remains on high alert in the aftermath of the attack, with operational plans for offensive and defensive actions approved and ready for implementation.

Meanwhile, at the United Nations, Iran’s actions were met with condemnation and admonition:

  • US Ambassador Robert A. Wood cautioned Tehran of potential repercussions during a UN Security Council meeting, warning against further targeting of Israel or the US.
  • The UK’s representative, Barbara Woodward, echoed these sentiments, condemning the Iranian attack and expressing concern for the safety of neighboring countries such as Jordan and Iraq.

Also Read: ENPO and Tribal Bodies Safeguard Officials, Citizens Abstaining from Voting in Nagaland’s LS Polls

Iran’s envoy to the UN, Amir Saeid Iravani, defended the attack as an act of self-defense, criticizing the Security Council’s failure to maintain international peace and security in the wake of Israel’s purported strike on an Iranian consulate in Syria.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint and avoid further escalation:

  • Guterres emphasized the precarious situation in the Middle East and stressed the importance of defusing tensions to prevent further conflict and instability in the region.

Meanwhile, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi asserted that the attack served as a lesson to Israel and warned of a stronger response to any future aggression against Iran’s interests.

US President Joe Biden urged Israel to proceed with caution in its response to Iran’s attack, affirming that the United States would not participate in offensive counter-strikes against Tehran.

This development follows US assistance to Israel in intercepting numerous drones and missiles launched by Iran:

  • Israeli authorities reported a successful interception of the majority of inbound weapons, with minimal damage inflicted.
  • The Pentagon confirmed US and allied forces’ destruction of over 80 attack drones and at least six ballistic missiles intended for Israel from Iran and Yemen.

ENPO and Tribal Bodies Safeguard Officials, Citizens Abstaining from Voting in Nagaland’s LS Polls


1. ENPO and tribal bodies support officials and citizens during the Eastern Nagaland Public Emergency.
2. They ensure protection to elected members and government servants abstaining from voting.
3. Alignment with Eastern Nagaland Public’s decision emphasizes solidarity and commitment to community concerns.


Kohima, April 15: In Nagaland, the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO) and tribal bodies have extended support and appreciation to officials and citizens amidst the ongoing Eastern Nagaland Public Emergency, declared on March 5, 2024.

The ENPO, along with tribal bodies, ENWO, and ENSF, have pledged protection to elected members and government servants who voluntarily abstain from voting, aligning with the Eastern Nagaland Public’s decision.

ENPO President R Tsapikiu Sangtam clarified that the people of Eastern Nagaland are abstaining, not boycotting, the electoral process.

Nagaland’s Deputy Chief Minister and BJP Legislature Party (BLP) leader, Y Patton, reiterated the government’s commitment to conducting polling across the state, including Eastern Nagaland, despite facing opposition.

Patton addressed concerns raised by the media regarding potential incidents amid resistance to participation, emphasizing ongoing efforts to engage ENPO in the election process.


Also Read: Indian Embassy in Israel Issues Advisory Amid Rising Tensions from Iran’s Attack

Following a meeting with BJP legislators and party workers, Patton dismissed ENPO’s criticisms of the state government, citing a lack of consultation from their end.

He also refuted accusations by the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC), challenging assertions about the BJP-NDPP coalition’s commitment to preserving Naga identity and faith, labeling them as political rhetoric without substance.

Indian Embassy in Israel Issues Advisory Amid Rising Tensions from Iran’s Attack


1. Indian embassy in Israel responds to Iran’s attack with directives for citizen safety.
2. Assures continuous monitoring and cooperation with Israeli authorities and the Indian diaspora.
3. Offers 24/7 emergency helpline and encourages citizens to register for assistance.


New Delhi, April 14: The Indian embassy in Israel issued a directive to its citizens following Iran’s unprecedented attack on Israeli territory.

Urging calm and adherence to local safety guidelines, the embassy assured ongoing monitoring of the situation and collaboration with Israeli authorities and the Indian community. It also provided a 24/7 emergency helpline and encouraged registration for assistance.

In response to recent events, including Iran’s attack and the strike on its consulate in Syria, tensions have escalated.

Iran claims its strike on Israel was in retaliation for alleged “Israeli crimes,” while Israel neither confirmed nor denied responsibility for the consulate attack, which resulted in casualties among senior Revolutionary Guard Corps members.


Also Read: Key Highlights from BJP’s Manifesto: Uniform Civil Code and CAA Assured

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed determination for victory after intercepting the majority of incoming threats. Meanwhile, Israel sought the UN Security Council’s condemnation of Iran’s actions and designation of the Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organization.

The Security Council convened to address Israel’s request.

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