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Gauhati High Court Orders Assam Government to Respond Regarding Kamakhya Access Corridor


1. Gauhati High Court instructs Assam government to address PIL against Kamakhya Temple Access Corridor.
2. Concerns raised in the petition include the absence of approvals from the Department of Archaeology.
3. PIL filed by devotees demands transparency and protection of historical structures around the temple.


Guwahati, April 03: The Gauhati High Court directs the Assam government to respond to a PIL opposing the construction of the ‘Maa Kamakhya Temple Access Corridor’ in Assam. The petition raises concerns over the lack of approvals from the Department of Archaeology.

Chief Justice Vijay Bishnoi and Justice Suman Shyam grant a two-week window for the state government to submit its response. Senior government advocate D Nath and assisting advocate general D Saikia accept the notice on behalf of the state.

The petition, filed by devotee Gitika Bhattacharya and 12 others, seeks transparency in the corridor’s construction to ensure it won’t damage the temple’s ancient structures, including the ‘Dasa Mahavidyas’ and the sacred Nilachal Hill.

The plea emphasizes the importance of obtaining necessary approvals under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, to protect historically significant monuments dating back over 2,000 years.


Also Read: Assam Declares Paid Holiday for 2024 Lok Sabha Elections: Here’s What You Need to Know

Petitioners, devotees of ‘Maa Kamakhya,’ the ‘Dasa Mahavidyas,’ and Nilachal Hill, assert their right to religious worship and express concerns over potential harm to the site’s sanctity.

While Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Rs 498 crore Kamakhya corridor project as a tourism gateway to the Northeast, the PIL underscores the need to balance development with the preservation of cultural and archaeological heritage.

Assam Declares Paid Holiday for 2024 Lok Sabha Elections: Here’s What You Need to Know


1. Assam Governor announces paid holidays for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections on April 19, April 26, and May 7.
2. Ballepu Kalyan Chakravarthy, Principal Secretary to the Labour Welfare Department, issues the notification on April 2.
3. Sectors covered include factories, plantations, shops, entertainment venues, farms, and banking institutions.


Guwahati, April 03: The Governor of Assam has declared paid holidays for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, scheduled for April 19, April 26, and May 7.

Ballepu Kalyan Chakravarthy, Principal Secretary to the Labour Welfare Department, issued the notification on April 2, outlining the arrangements.

The paid holiday applies to various sectors, including factories, plantations, shops, commercial establishments, entertainment venues, contractors’ establishments, farms, and banking institutions.


Also Read: Dhubri Lok Sabha Constituency: Candidates, Demographics, and Previous Election Outcomes

The election will be held in three phases across Assam, starting on April 19. Voters registered in the polling constituency, even if employed outside it, are entitled to paid leave under Section 135B of the R.P. Act, 1951.

Additionally, voters from neighboring states working in adjoining districts of Assam will also receive paid leave on polling days in their respective states.

The paid holiday provision will continue in the event of a re-poll, as per directives from the Election Department.

Dhubri Lok Sabha Constituency: Candidates, Demographics, and Previous Election Outcomes


1. Dhubri LS, central in Assam, holds vital historical and political significance for upcoming elections.
2. Its diverse population and political legacy make Dhubri a pivotal player in the region.
3. As the nation prepares for elections, Dhubri emerges as a key constituency to watch.


Dhubri, April 03: Situated in the heart of Assam, the Dhubri Lok Sabha constituency holds significant historical and political importance as the nation gears up for the upcoming elections. With its diverse population and rich political legacy, Dhubri stands as a pivotal player in the electoral landscape of the region.

Dhubri’s demographic composition is a tapestry of diversity, with rural areas constituting 89% of the electorate and urban pockets making up the remaining 11%. The constituency hosts substantial populations of Scheduled Castes (SC) at 3.5% and Scheduled Tribes (ST) at 5.7%, adding depth to its societal fabric.

Religious diversity further characterizes Dhubri, with Muslims comprising 55%, Hindus 40%, and other religious communities 5% of the population.

Traditionally a stronghold of the Congress party, Dhubri has witnessed the rise of the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) under the leadership of Maulana Badruddin Ajmal. Ajmal’s consecutive victories since 2009 highlight the AIUDF’s growing influence, particularly in Muslim-majority areas.


Also Read: Mayank Yadav Earns ‘Child of the Wind’ Nickname for IPL Speed Record, Leaves Cricket Legends in Awe

In the 2019 General Assembly Elections, Dhubri witnessed a fiercely contested battle with a remarkable 90.66% voter turnout.

Badruddin Ajmal secured a decisive victory, garnering 7,18,764 votes and defeating his closest rival from the INC, Abu Taher Bepari, by a significant margin of 2,26,258 votes.

Recent controversies, including Maulana Badruddin Ajmal’s remarks on train travel during the Ram Mandir ceremony in Ayodhya, have propelled Dhubri into national headlines.

This sparked debates on interfaith tensions and security concerns during significant events.

Dhubri’s political landscape has evolved over the years, transitioning from the dominance of the Praja Socialist Party to Congress’s stronghold and subsequently to AIUDF’s ascendancy under Badruddin Ajmal’s leadership since 2009.

As the elections loom, Dhubri braces for a riveting contest, with prominent candidates like Badruddin Ajmal of AIUDF, Rakibul Hussain from the Indian National Congress, and Zaved Islam of the Asom Gana Parishad vying for victory.

The convergence of historical legacies, demographic intricacies, and contemporary controversies sets the stage for an engaging electoral battle reflective of Dhubri’s vibrant political landscape.

Mayank Yadav Earns ‘Child of the Wind’ Nickname for IPL Speed Record, Leaves Cricket Legends in Awe


1. Mayank Yadav, known as the ‘child of the wind,’ impressed cricket legends with his rapid pace.
2. He played a pivotal role in Lucknow Super Giants’ victory over Royal Challengers Bangalore.
3. Securing the Player of the Match award for the second time in a row, Yadav reaffirmed his talent.


Sports, April 03: Mayank Yadav, dubbed ‘child of the wind,’ showcased his blistering pace once more, impressing cricket legends as he propelled Lucknow Super Giants to victory against Royal Challengers Bangalore.

Making his mark in consecutive matches, the 21-year-old earned the Player of the Match award again.

In a stellar performance against RCB at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, Mayank Yadav claimed three crucial wickets for just 14 runs in his four-over spell, contributing significantly to LSG’s triumph by 28 runs.

Notably, he shattered his record for the fastest ball, clocking in at 156.7 kph during the match.


Also Read: Arunachal BJP Candidate’s Car Intercepted with Rs. 50 Lakhs in Assam Before Elections

Yadav’s fierce bowling rattled the RCB batting lineup, dismissing prominent players like Glenn Maxwell, Cameron Green, and Rajat Patidar. His fiery short delivery caught Maxwell off guard, resulting in a caught dismissal.

He then showcased his skill with a delivery that swung back in to clip the off-stump, dismissing Green. Patidar also fell victim to Yadav’s pace, unable to handle a pull shot and handing a catch to Devdutt Padikkal.

The cricket fraternity lauded Yadav’s exceptional bowling performance, with praise pouring in from notable figures like Suryakumar Yadav and Dale Steyn.

Expressing his delight at winning consecutive Player of the Match awards, Yadav emphasized his ambition to represent India. “My goal is to play for the country. I feel this is just the start,” he remarked.

Reflecting on his standout moment in the match, Yadav singled out Green’s dismissal as the most satisfying.

He attributed his rapid pace to various factors such as diet, sleep, and training regimen, highlighting his focus on dietary discipline and recovery methods like ice baths.

As Mayank Yadav continues to make waves with his exceptional pace and performance, his aspirations to don the Indian jersey remain steadfast, signaling a promising future ahead.

Arunachal BJP Candidate’s Car Intercepted with Rs. 50 Lakhs in Assam Before Elections


1. Arunachal Pradesh BJP candidate’s car seized with Rs. 50 lakhs by Jonai Police in Assam.
2. Vehicle registered under AR 09C-1668 from East Siang district.
3. Car intercepted while traveling from Itanagar to Pasighat ahead of elections.


Guwahati, April 03: In a significant development ahead of the elections, a car allegedly linked to a BJP MLA candidate from Arunachal Pradesh was intercepted by Jonai Police in Assam’s Dhemaji district.

The vehicle, registered under AR 09C-1668 from East Siang district, Pasighat, was found to be carrying a substantial amount of Rs. 50,00,000/- (Fifty lakhs) while traveling from Itanagar to Pasighat.

Reports indicate that the car is registered in the name of Mrs. Okyam Panyang, wife of Olom Panyang, the BJP MLA candidate contesting from the 40th Mariyang-Geku Assembly constituency.

The discovery raises concerns about the potential misuse of the seized funds for electoral purposes within the constituency, located in the Upper Siang District of Arunachal Pradesh.


Also Read: 7.4 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Taiwan, Collapsing Buildings; Tsunami Alert Raised

When approached for clarification amidst the ongoing Model Code of Conduct, Pranjit Lahkar, SDPO of Jonai, disclosed that the individual transporting the money, Bebet Panyang, stated it was meant for paying laborers involved in pre-Eid Al Fitr construction work, slated for April 11.

However, sources suggest that Bebet Panyang is not a contractor but purportedly works under BJP MLA candidate Olom Panyang.

7.4 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Taiwan, Collapsing Buildings; Tsunami Alert Raised


1. Powerful earthquake hits Taiwan, causing building collapses.
2. Magnitude 7.4 (USGS) or 7.5 (Japan’s Meteorological Agency).
3. Originated 18 km south of Hualien City, triggering tsunami alert.


Taiwan, April 03: A powerful earthquake struck the entire island of Taiwan, causing buildings to collapse and triggering a tsunami alert across the region.

The quake, with a magnitude of 7.4 according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and 7.5 according to Japan’s Meteorological Agency, originated 18 kilometers south of Taiwan’s Hualien City at a depth of 34.8 km.

Tsunami warnings were issued for Taiwan and parts of southern Japan, with waves as high as three meters expected, particularly for remote Japanese islands like Miyakojima.

Japanese national broadcaster NHK urged immediate evacuation, emphasizing the imminent threat of the tsunami and advising against returning to affected areas.


Also Read: ED does not object AAP leader Sanjay Singh’s bail, granted by Supreme Court

Taiwan, situated near the convergence of two tectonic plates, frequently experiences earthquakes. The deadliest in its history was a 7.6-magnitude quake in September 1999, claiming around 2,400 lives.

Japan, with approximately 1,500 earthquakes annually, employs advanced construction methods and strict regulations to minimize damage. Despite these measures, the severity of quakes and resulting tsunamis can vary significantly.

Japan’s worst earthquake occurred in March 2011, registering 9.0 in magnitude and triggering a devastating tsunami that claimed thousands of lives and caused the Fukushima nuclear disaster.

Despite ongoing efforts to enhance safety measures, events like the 2024 New Year’s Day quake in Noto Peninsula, which killed over 230 people, underscore the continued vulnerability of certain structures, particularly older buildings.

ED raises no objection to AAP leader Sanjay Singh’s bail, granted by Supreme Court


1. Sanjay Singh of AAP, held in the Delhi liquor scam, secured bail from the Supreme Court.
2. Court emphasized bail decision won’t establish precedent, addressing Singh’s pleas comprehensively.
3. Enforcement Directorate’s stance softened, not opposing Singh’s bail during proceedings.


New Delhi, April 02: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Sanjay Singh, arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) last October in a money laundering case related to the now-defunct Delhi liquor policy scam, was granted bail by the Supreme Court on Tuesday.

The court clarified that the bail decision in Singh’s case would not set a precedent, as it considered his pleas regarding bail, arrest, and ED remand in the money laundering case.

The ED did not oppose Singh’s bail during the ongoing proceedings arising from the investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) sections 3 and 4.

The terms of Singh’s bail will be determined by a trial court, as per the Supreme Court’s decision. The bench, headed by Justice Sanjiv Khanna and including Justices Dipankar Datta and PB Varale, allowed Singh to continue his political activities during the bail period.

During the hearing, Additional Solicitor General SV Raju, representing the ED, mentioned having an arguable case but expressed willingness to grant bail. He cited exculpatory statements by the ED’s witness-turned-approver Dinesh Arora and the absence of recovered funds as factors supporting Singh’s bail.

Singh’s bail was granted after the court sought the ED’s response following arguments by senior lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing Singh. The court noted the lack of incriminating evidence against Singh in the money laundering case.


Also Read: Dhubri Deputy Commissioner Unveils Election Mascot “Pradipta” in Assam

This development occurred a day after Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, also arrested by the ED in connection with the same money laundering case linked to the defunct liquor policy, was remanded to 14-day custody until April 15, currently detained in Tihar Jail.

Singh had been previously lodged in Tihar Jail following his October 4, 2023 arrest, based on Dinesh Arora’s statement implicating him.

Among other AAP members in Tihar are former Delhi Ministers Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain.

In February, the Delhi High Court declined Singh’s bail, citing insufficient grounds. Subsequently, Singh appealed to the Supreme Court.

Upon Singh’s arrest, the ED alleged his involvement as a key conspirator in the Delhi liquor policy scam, receiving Rs 2 crore in proceeds of crime, and association with other suspects, including Dinesh Arora.

Dhubri Deputy Commissioner Unveils Election Mascot “Pradipta” in Assam


1. SVEEP cell hosts an awareness meeting in Dhubri ahead of the 2024 Parliamentary election.
2. “Pradipta,” the new election mascot for Dhubri, was unveiled during the event.
3. The aim is to raise voter awareness and encourage participation in the electoral process.


Guwahati, April 02: In an awareness meeting held at the Dhubri district’s deputy commissioner conference hall ahead of the 2024 Parliamentary election, the Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation program (SVEEP) cell organized the unveiling ceremony of the new election mascot for the Dhubri Election district.

The election mascot, named “Pradipta,” was revealed during the event.

Designed by artist Sanjib Basak, “Pradipta” blends elements of traditional earthenware sculpture with the shola pith art form.

This innovative design aims to raise awareness about the importance of voting among the public. With the slogan “Let’s all vote together,” the mascot embodies the spirit of collective participation in the electoral process, emphasizing the significance of every citizen’s vote.


Also Read: Woman from Tripura Arrested for Suspected Involvement in Human Trafficking Across Bangladesh-India Border

Through its unique design and compelling message, “Pradipta” serves as a symbol of civic engagement, encouraging people to exercise their democratic right to vote.

Dhubri district’s Deputy Commissioner, Dibakar Nath, inaugurated the new election mascot, along with a song and selfie point, during the ceremony.

He delivered a speech aimed at encouraging new voters to engage in ethical voting and strive for high turnout in the upcoming election.

Several officials from the district administration, including Development Commissioner Pallab Majumdar, Additional Commissioners Banti Talukdar and Santana Bora, District Election Officer Masi Tapno, and others, were present at the event to support the initiative.

Woman from Tripura Arrested for Suspected Involvement in Human Trafficking Across Bangladesh-India Border


1. Agartala Government Railway Police (GRP) detain woman from Matinagar amid Lok Sabha elections.
2. Woman apprehended near West District border accused of human trafficking by Agartala GRP.
3. Suspected involvement in human trafficking leads to woman’s arrest near the Bangladesh-India border.


Agartala, April 02: Amidst the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Capital city of Tripura, Agartala Government Railway Police (GRP) have apprehended a woman from Matinagar, a village near the West District border, over her alleged involvement in human trafficking activities.

According to Officer-In-Charge Tapas Das, the arrest follows an investigation into a case filed with the Government Railway Police on March 23, which led to the detention of six Bangladeshi nationals.

Das explained that their inquiry unveiled the role of one Parul Akhter from Matinagar in facilitating the illegal entry of these individuals into India.

After evading authorities, Akhter was tracked down based on a tip-off and apprehended with the assistance of Tripura Police and BSF.


Also Read: Diphu, Former Hotbed of Insurgency, Now Embraces Peace under Himanta Biswa Sarma

Das revealed that Akhter aided the illegal crossing of Bangladeshi nationals and Rohingyas across the international border, providing them with shelter and sustenance.

He highlighted her residence’s proximity to the fencing as a facilitating factor. Interrogation of Akhter has commenced to gather further information on the operations.

In recent incidents, the GRP, in collaboration with the Railway Protection Force (RPF), has intercepted over 50 Bangladeshi nationals at Agartala Railway Station.

These individuals were attempting to enter India clandestinely, aiming for various destinations such as Pune, Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Gujarat, and other regions in search of employment opportunities.

Diphu, Former Hotbed of Insurgency, Now Embraces Peace under Himanta Biswa Sarma


1. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma visited Diphu ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.
2. BJP candidate Amarsin Tiso filed his nomination for the Diphu Lok Sabha seat.
3. Sarma extended his support to Tiso during the nomination process.


Guwahati, April 02: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma visited Diphu, the headquarters of Karbi Anglong district, for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

During this visit, BJP candidate Amarsin Tiso filed his nomination for the Diphu Lok Sabha constituency, receiving support from the CM.

Sarma expressed confidence in Tiso, stating that he has pledged to ensure the ‘Modi ki guarantee’ reaches every household. Highlighting the transformation of Diphu, once a hotbed of insurgency, Sarma attributed the peace in the region to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.

He emphasized the significant reduction in militant activities in tribal areas over the past decade, crediting Modi’s commitment to developing these regions. Sarma praised the government’s efforts in signing agreements with various groups, leading to a wave of development in tribal areas across Assam.


Also Read: Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu denounces China’s renaming attempt as a ‘gimmick’

The preparation for the Lok Sabha elections has intensified in the region, with Sarma initiating his unofficial campaign from Majuli with a cycle rally.

Thousands of people joined him in this endeavor. Following his visit to Diphu, Sarma proceeded to Sarupathar for the Vijay Sankalp Yatra.

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