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Controversy Erupts Over Missing VVPAT Machine in Assam’s Darrang-Udalguri LS Constituency, CEO Launches Investigation


1. Controversy arises in Darrang-Udalguri LS Constituency over missing VVPAT machine during Assam’s Lok Sabha Election.
2. The absence of the VVPAT machine from Bhergaon raises questions about electoral transparency.
3. Concerns mount over the integrity of the ongoing election process amid the missing equipment.


Guwahati, March 27: Amid the ongoing Lok Sabha Election in Assam, a significant controversy has emerged in the Darrang-Udalguri Parliamentary Constituency regarding a missing Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machine from Bhergaon.

This incident has sparked concerns about the transparency and integrity of the electoral process.

According to reports, out of the 267 VVPAT machines allocated to Bhergaon, one is currently unaccounted for.

This discrepancy has prompted immediate calls for an investigation to ascertain the whereabouts of the missing machine and ensure the smooth conduct of the election.

The disappearance of the VVPAT machine raises serious questions about the security measures in place to safeguard electoral equipment and prevent such incidents from occurring.


Also Read: Arunachal CM Pema Khandu Among Five BJP MLAs Set to Win Uncontested

Authorities must take swift action to address this issue and restore confidence in the electoral process.

The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Assam has acknowledged the reports circulating in the media regarding the missing VVPAT machine in the Udalguri district.

An inquiry has been initiated to investigate the matter thoroughly, and the findings will be communicated to all stakeholders in due course.

The CEO of Assam has emphasized the importance of maintaining strict protocols and accountability in handling electronic voting machines (EVMs) and VVPATs.

Any negligence or dereliction of duty in this regard will not be tolerated, and appropriate action will be taken against those found responsible.

Ensuring the integrity and credibility of the electoral process is paramount to upholding the democratic values of transparency and fairness.

Therefore, the authorities must conduct a thorough investigation into the missing VVPAT machine and take necessary measures to prevent such incidents in the future.

Arunachal CM Pema Khandu Among Five BJP MLAs Set to Win Uncontested


1. Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu is poised for an uncontested win in the Mukto Assembly constituency.
2. BJP enjoys unchallenged victories as opposition candidates are absent in key districts like Papum Pare.
3. Favorable landscape emerges for BJP’s dominance in the state’s electoral landscape.


Itanagar, March 27: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu is set to secure an uncontested victory from the Mukto Assembly constituency, adding to the growing tally of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidates clinching unchallenged wins in the state.

Reports indicate a conspicuous absence of opposition candidates across key districts like Papum Pare, suggesting a favorable landscape for the ruling BJP to dominate the electoral arena.

In a notable development, Er Ratu Techi from Sagalee emerges as another strong contender poised for an uncontested triumph.

With no opposing nominations filed within the stipulated timeframe, the BJP appears poised for a clean sweep in various constituencies, including Mukto and Sagalee.


Also Read: Planes Collide at Kolkata Airport: Wing-to-Wing Impact Reported

Furthermore, Er Hage Appa from Ziro in the Lower Subansiri district faces no contest, further solidifying the BJP’s stronghold in the region.

The latest update underscores a total of five candidates securing uncontested victories, including Jikke Tako from Tali, Nyato Dukom from Taliha, Ratu Techi from Sagalee, and Mutchu Mithi from Roing Assembly constituencies.

Former Chief Minister Nabam Tuki, having served 30 years as an MLA from Sagalee, has opted to contest parliamentary elections this time, filing his nomination from Aalo.

However, while the stage seems set for Pema Khandu’s uncontested win in Arunachal Pradesh, official confirmation is awaited.

Planes Collide at Kolkata Airport: Wing-to-Wing Impact Reported


1. A minor collision at Kolkata Airport involves two planes bound for Chennai and Darbhanga.
2. The incident occurred at 11:10 am, causing damage to the wings of both aircraft.
3. No casualties were reported in the collision; an investigation is underway by aviation authorities.


Kolkata, March 27: A minor incident occurred at Kolkata Airport on Wednesday when two planes collided wing-to-wing. One flight was destined for Chennai, while the other was bound for Darbhanga.

The collision occurred at 11:10 am, resulting in damage to both aircraft. Fortunately, there were no casualties reported from the accident.

The wing tip of the Chennai-bound plane broke off during the collision, while the wing of the Darbhanga-bound aircraft collapsed due to the impact.


Also Read: Assam: Three Chinese Diplomats Held in Dibrugarh

Authorities promptly informed the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) about the incident.

The aviation regulatory body has launched a thorough investigation into the matter to determine the cause of the collision and prevent such incidents in the future.

Assam: Three Chinese Diplomats Held in Dibrugarh


1. Three Chinese diplomats were apprehended at Dibrugarh airport in Assam, prompting scrutiny over their activities.
2. Possessing Chinese diplomat passports, they are presently undergoing questioning by local authorities at Mohanbari airport.
3. Concerns have been raised regarding their presence in the region, prompting heightened scrutiny and verification processes.


Dibrugarh, March 27: Three Chinese diplomats were detained at Dibrugarh airport in Assam, sparking concerns and raising questions about their presence in the region.

The individuals, holding Chinese diplomat passports, were intercepted upon their arrival and are currently undergoing interrogation at Mohanbari airport by the Dibrugarh district administration.

Authorities, including a team from the District Special Branch (DSB) and a magistrate, are meticulously scrutinizing their documents to ascertain if they possess clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs of India.


Also Read: Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang Files Nomination Papers for Assembly Elections at Pakyong DAC

Sources suggest that the detained diplomats had purportedly intended to visit the war memorial at Margherita, a detail that has added intrigue to their detainment.

The incident has attracted attention and speculation, particularly given the current geopolitical tensions and sensitivities surrounding Chinese diplomatic activities in various parts of India.

While the precise reasons for their detention remain undisclosed, the situation underscores the importance of vigilance and thorough scrutiny of foreign diplomatic engagements within the country, especially in sensitive border regions like Assam. Authorities are expected to provide further updates as the investigation progresses.

Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang Files Nomination Papers for Assembly Elections at Pakyong DAC


1. Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang files nomination for Rhenock constituency at Pakyong DAC.
2. March 27 marks the final day for nomination submissions.
3. Candidates race against time to meet the filing deadline for Assembly elections.


Gangtok, March 27: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang arrived at the Pakyong District Administrative Centre to submit his nomination papers for the Rhenock constituency in the upcoming Assembly elections.

The filing, scheduled for March 27, marks the final opportunity for candidates to submit their nominations before the deadline.

Tamang’s decision to contest from the Rhenock constituency comes after he strategically filed his candidacy for the Soreng-Chakung constituency on March 26, at the Soreng District Administration Centre.

This dual submission underscores the heightened competition in the forthcoming 11th Assembly Elections.

In a significant political development on March 21, Singtam Khamdong MLA MK Sharma made headlines by joining the Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) party.


Also Read: Assam: Alcohol prices set to increase from April 1st

He was joined by retired Superintendent Engineer Sonam Dorjee Bhutia from Tathangchen and Tara Bhattarai, further bolstering the SDF’s ranks.

The political landscape in Sikkim experienced notable shifts on March 20, with several influential figures crossing party lines.

Raju Basnett, former Sports and Youth Affairs Secretary, Chewang Gyatso Bhutia, former Rural Development Department Secretary, Gopal Baraily, former MLA, Bharti Sharma, former SKM Working President, and Hemendra Adhikari, SDF party’s CLC President, all pledged their support to the ruling SKM party.

Assam: Alcohol prices set to increase from April 1st


1. Alcohol prices in Assam are set to rise from April 1st.
2. The Excise Department announces significant price hikes on various alcohol brands.
3. Modification of ad-valorem taxes cited as the reason for the impending price increase.


Guwahati, March 27: In a move aimed at generating revenue and regulating alcohol consumption, the Assam Excise Department has declared a significant increase in alcohol prices slated to take effect from April 1, 2024.

The rise in prices of alcohol in Assam will be due to the modification of ad-valorem taxes on different brands of alcohol like beer, wine and ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages.

The change in the tax regime is adding additional revenue as alcohol is the third largest tax earner in Assam.

It consumes more than 5.30lakh litre of liquor daily. Average excise revenue of over ₹10 crore.

Here is the list:

Beer: Draught beer containing alcohol up to 5% v/v: Ad-valorem levy ranges from 0.73 to 0.88 times the assessed value, with a minimum of Rs. 33 to Rs. 43 per bottle of 650 ml.

Beer containing alcohol above 5%: Ad-valorem levy ranges from 0.88 to 0.88 times the assessed value, with a minimum of Rs. 43 per bottle of 650 ml.


Also Read: Gaurav Gogoi’s Campaign Anthem ‘Axomor Gaurav’ Unveiled Ahead of Assam Lok Sabha Elections

India-Made Spirits: Various categories including General Brand, Regular Brand, Luxury Brand, Elegant Brand, Premium Brand, and Classic Premium Brand, with ad-valorem levies ranging from 0.66 to 1.32 times the assessed value, and minimum prices per bottle ranging from Rs. 130 to Rs. 530 for 750 ml bottles.

Ready-to-Drink Alcoholic Beverages: Ad-valorem levy at 0.44 times the assessed value, with a minimum of Rs. 14 per bottle of 275 ml.

Wines: Ad-valorem levy at 0.25 times the assessed value, with a minimum of Rs. 43 per bottle of 750 ml.

Assam CM Predicts Congress to Be Free of Hindus by 2026, Muslims by 2032


1. Assam CM predicts no Hindus in Congress after 2026, and no Muslims by 2032.
2. Sarma accompanies Sonowal during nomination filing for the Lok Sabha election in Dibrugarh.
3. A bold statement made during the address in Dibrugarh hints at heightened political tensions.


Guwahati, March 27: In a bold declaration during his address in Dibrugarh, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma asserted, “There will be no Hindus in Congress after 2026, and no Muslims by 2032.”

The nomination process for the upcoming Lok Sabha election has already commenced, with Sarma accompanying Sarbananda Sonowal as he filed his nomination from the Dibrugarh Lok Sabha seat.

Addressing the press, Sarma highlighted the significant shifts occurring within the Congress party, noting the substantial number of members defecting to the BJP.


Also Read: PM Modi speaks to ‘Rajmata’ Amrita Roy, BJP’s candidate against Mahua Moitra

Sarma emphasized, “the influx of people from Congress to the BJP suggests that there will be an abundance of empty seats in the Rajiv Bhawan but no candidates to fill them. This reflects the prevailing political landscape in Assam.”

These remarks from Sarma come amid escalating political tensions, with the Chief Minister indicating a more aggressive stance.

He suggested that this trend would escalate further if Narendra Modi secures another term as Prime Minister, predicting that “Congress will be reduced to zero by 2032.”

PM Modi speaks to ‘Rajmata’ Amrita Roy, BJP’s candidate against Mahua Moitra


1. PM Modi engaged in a conversation with Rekha Patra, a prominent Sandeshkhali figure.
2. Patra, now a BJP candidate for Basirhat Lok Sabha seat, led women’s protests against Sheikh Shahjahan.
3. The discussion focused on campaign preparations and Patra’s role in upcoming polls.


Kolkata, March 27: Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a conversation with Rajmata Amrita Roy, the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) Krishnanagar Lok Sabha candidate, reaffirming the party’s commitment to combatting corruption in the nation.

Roy has been pitted against Trinamool Congress’s Mahua Moitra in the upcoming elections, symbolizing a clash between political ideologies.

During the telephonic exchange, PM Modi emphasized the BJP’s dedication to reclaiming funds allegedly embezzled from West Bengal’s impoverished citizens.

He expressed his intent to explore legal avenues to ensure that assets seized by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) from corrupt individuals are utilized for the benefit of the people.

Asserting that corrupt elements have united to shield each other, PM Modi conveyed his optimism about West Bengal’s inclination towards transformative change.


Also Read: Gaurav Gogoi’s Campaign Anthem ‘Axomor Gaurav’ Unveiled Ahead of Assam Lok Sabha Elections

Corruption has emerged as a pivotal issue in the BJP’s campaign against the ruling Trinamool Congress, with the party capitalizing on allegations of corruption leveled against TMC leaders.

In the preceding Lok Sabha elections, the BJP made significant inroads in West Bengal, securing 18 out of 42 Lok Sabha seats, challenging the dominance of the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC.

Meanwhile, Amrita Roy’s association with the erstwhile royal family of Krishnanagar has sparked controversy, with the TMC criticizing the BJP’s decision to field her as a candidate.

Trinamool Congress spokesperson Kunal Ghosh raised historical grievances, alleging that the royal family had collaborated with British forces during colonial rule.

According to Ghosh, Raja Krishnachandra Roy, the erstwhile ruler of Krishnanagar, supported British forces in their conflict against Nawab of Bengal Siraj-ud-Daulah, prompting scrutiny over the BJP’s selection of Roy as a candidate.

Gaurav Gogoi’s Campaign Anthem ‘Axomor Gaurav’ Unveiled Ahead of Assam Lok Sabha Elections


1. Gaurav Gogoi, INC’s Jorhat LS candidate, reveals campaign anthem “Axomor Gaurav” ahead of elections.
2. The song, shared on social media, echoes the hopes of Assam’s diverse populace.
3. It symbolizes Gogoi’s commitment to fostering peace and safeguarding democracy in the region.


Guwahati, March 27: Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in Assam, Gaurav Gogoi, the Indian National Congress (INC) candidate for the Jorhat LS seat, has unveiled his campaign anthem titled “Axomor Gaurav.”

The song, released on Social media, aims to capture the aspirations of Assam’s youth, women, marginalized communities, and farmers.

The anthem features a poignant line, “Axom eibar jilikibo xantir dikhe, gonotontro roikhya koribo a Gaurav Gogoi a,” which translates to “Assam will glorify this time towards peace, democracy will be protected by Gaurav Gogoi.”


Also Read: Arvind Kejriwal’s Wife, Sunita Kejriwal, Teases Revelation on ‘Alleged Delhi Liquor Scam’ Tomorrow

With lyrics promising to usher in peace and safeguard democracy, the song serves as a rallying call for support towards Gaurav Gogoi’s candidacy under the INC banner in the Jorhat Constituency.

Gaurav Gogoi, the son of former Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi and the incumbent MP from Kaliabor, filed his nomination on Tuesday, gearing up for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

The release of the campaign anthem adds a musical dimension to his election campaign, aiming to resonate with voters across Assam and garner support for his bid for the Jorhat LS seat.

Arvind Kejriwal’s Wife, Sunita Kejriwal, Teases Revelation on ‘Alleged Delhi Liquor Scam’ Tomorrow


1. Sunita Kejriwal stated that Arvind Kejriwal would address the “Delhi liquor scam” in court.
2. She revealed this during a brief press conference, emphasizing recent case developments.
3. Arvind Kejriwal’s detailed response is expected on March 28 regarding the ongoing controversy.


New Delhi, March 27: Arvind Kejriwal’s wife, Sunita Kejriwal, announced on Wednesday that he would address the “so-called Delhi liquor scam” in court on Thursday, March 28, offering a detailed response. Speaking at a brief press conference, she highlighted recent developments in the case.

Earlier, Sunita Kejriwal visited Arvind Kejriwal at the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) office on Tuesday evening. She discussed various issues, including water and sewer problems in Delhi, for which Kejriwal had written to Water Minister Atishi.

Subsequently, the central government initiated legal action against him, prompting concerns about the city’s welfare.

Referring to the ongoing “liquor scam,” Sunita Kejriwal emphasized that despite over 250 raids conducted by the ED, no incriminating evidence has been found.

Arvind Kejriwal intends to disclose all pertinent details during his court appearance on March 28, shedding light on the alleged misuse of funds and providing substantiating evidence.

Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest by the ED on March 21 was in connection with the Delhi excise policy case, which was subsequently annulled, linking to a money laundering probe. He was remanded to ED custody until March 28.


Also Read: JP Nadda Issues Notice to Dilip Ghosh for Remarks on Mamata Banerjee; BJP MP Responds

The case revolves around purported irregularities and money laundering associated with the formulation and implementation of the Delhi excise policy in 2022, which was later revoked due to procedural flaws.

The investigation originated from a report submitted by Delhi’s chief secretary Naresh Kumar to Lieutenant Governor (LG) Vinai Kumar Saxena in July 2022, highlighting alleged procedural lapses in policy formation.

It asserted that decisions made by Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, acting as the Excise Minister, resulted in substantial financial losses to the state.

Although Arvind Kejriwal was not directly implicated in the initial FIRs filed by the ED or the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) concerning the Delhi excise policy case, his involvement surfaced in the ED’s chargesheet.

The agency alleged that he engaged in a video call with Sameer Mahendru, a key defendant, encouraging him to collaborate with AAP communications-in-charge Vijay Nair.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the case has drawn significant attention, raising questions about governance and accountability in Delhi’s administration.

Arvind Kejriwal’s forthcoming court appearance is anticipated to provide clarity and potentially reshape the trajectory of the investigation.

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