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Former Rajya Sabha MP Ripun Bora Quits Trinamool Congress


1. Former Rajya Sabha MP Ripun Bora has resigned from the Trinamool Congress (TMC).
2. Bora cited a commitment to TMC since joining in April 2022 as his reason for resignation.
3. He faced challenges with TMC’s perception in Assam and unsuccessful attempts to address them with party leadership.


Guwahati, Sep 01: Former Rajya Sabha MP Ripun Bora has resigned from the Trinamool Congress (TMC), stepping down from his primary membership of the party.

In his resignation letter to the party leadership, Bora expressed his commitment to TMC since joining in April 2022.

He and his team have worked diligently to enhance the party’s presence in Assam and position it as a viable alternative to the BJP. Bora’s initial decision to join TMC was fueled by his admiration for Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the party’s leadership.


Also Read: Himanta Biswa Sarma: Avoid fish with urea from ‘Miya Muslims’

Despite TMC’s potential in Assam, Bora cited several issues that have hindered progress, including the perception of TMC as a West Bengal-centric party.

He proposed solutions such as appointing an Assamese leader at the national level, declaring Dr. Bhupen Hazarika’s residence in Tollygunge as a heritage site, and turning the Madhupur Satra in Cooch Behar into a cultural hub.

However, Bora’s repeated efforts to discuss these concerns with TMC leadership were unsuccessful.

Bora conveyed to the media, “The people of Assam are reluctant to accept a party they view as being from another state. Given these unresolved challenges, I have decided to part ways with TMC.”

Himanta Biswa Sarma: Avoid fish with urea from ‘Miya Muslims’


1. Himanta Biswa Sarma urges avoiding fish grown with urea fertilizers due to health risks.
2. Sarma denounces the new Miya Bihu format as an insult to Assamese culture.
3. Local fish traders in Nagaon have warned of urea contamination and announced a boycott.


Guwahati, Sept 01: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has called for a switch to indigenous and organic fish to avoid health risks associated with fish grown using urea fertilizers.

Sarma criticized both the consumption of such fish and the new format of Miya Bihu, calling it an affront to Assamese culture.

Sarma pointed out that urea fertilizer, used by some Miya Muslims in fish farming, has led to liver disease. He urged the public to avoid such fish and emphasized the need for fish production in Upper Assam, produced organically.

Local fish traders in Nagaon have warned that their fish could contain high levels of urea, which may lead to kidney disease. They announced a boycott of fish supply to Lower Assam and called for healthier, organic alternatives.


Also Read: Guwahati Faces Severe Flooding as IMD Issues Heavy Rainfall Warning

Additionally, Sarma addressed the cultural tensions surrounding the festival version of Miya Bihu, introduced by Miya Muslims. He criticized this new rendition and the arrest of its lead singer, Altaf Hussain, asserting that these actions insult Assamese traditions and must be halted.

“We are a proud community and cannot accept these cultural attacks,” Sarma said.

Guwahati Faces Severe Flooding as IMD Issues Heavy Rainfall Warning


1. Heavy rain on September 1 triggered flash floods in Guwahati.
2. Areas like Chandmari, Beltola, and Hatigaon face severe waterlogging.
3. Major disruptions have been reported across the city.


Guwahati, Sep 01: Heavy rainfall hit Guwahati on the morning of September 1, triggering flash floods across the city.

Several areas, including Chandmari, Beltola, Hatigaon, Six-mile, Noonmati, and Kahilipara, have been severely affected by waterlogging, creating major disruptions for residents.


Also Read: PM Modi Announces ₹2 Lakh for Flood Victims’ Families and ₹50,000 for Injured in Tripura

The urban flooding is expected to cause significant traffic disruptions throughout the day. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) and Guwahati’s Regional Meteorological Centre have issued a heavy rainfall warning, particularly for the Dispur and Sonapur areas.

Notably, the city experienced similar urban flooding on June 5, leading to significant inconvenience for residents in areas such as Chandmari, Hatigaon, Sijubari, and Six-mile.

PM Modi Announces ₹2 Lakh for Flood Victims’ Families and ₹50,000 for Injured in Tripura


1. Tripura CM Prof. Dr. Manik Saha announced PM Modi’s ex-gratia relief from the PMNRF.
2. ₹2 lakh is allocated for flood victims’ families and ₹50,000 for those with serious injuries.
3. The relief aims to support affected families and individuals following recent floods in Tripura.


Agartala, Aug 31: Tripura Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved ex-gratia relief from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF).

The aid includes ₹2 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives in the recent floods and ₹50,000 for individuals with serious injuries.

Dr. Saha expressed his gratitude on Facebook, praising PM Modi for the timely assistance.

“I am deeply grateful to Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji for providing PMNRF ex-gratia relief of ₹2 lakh for the families of flood victims and ₹50,000 for the seriously injured,” Dr. Saha wrote, highlighting the immense support this gesture provides during these difficult times.


Also Read: Himanta Biswa Sarma: Autumn Session 2024 Marks Historic Changes for Assam

The floods, which impacted Tripura from August 19 to 23, led to close coordination between PM Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Dr. Saha.

The response included deploying additional National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, helicopters, and boats to support rescue and recovery efforts.

Himanta Biswa Sarma: Autumn Session 2024 Marks Historic Changes for Assam


1. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma declared the Autumn Session historic for major legislative changes.
2. Key bills were passed to transform various aspects of life in Assam.
3. The session will have a significant impact on the state’s socio-political and cultural landscape.


Guwahati, Aug 31: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on August 31 that the Autumn Session of the Assam Legislative Assembly will be historic, marking significant legislative changes in the state.

Several key bills were passed, aiming to transform various facets of life in Assam.

Among the major legislations is The Assam Compulsory Registration of Muslim Marriages and Divorces Bill, 2024, which aims to curb child marriage. Another crucial bill, The Assam Land and Revenue Regulation (Amendment) Bill, 2024, seeks to protect the state’s heritage and historic sites.


Also Read: Centre Accuses Mamata Banerjee of Attempting to Cover Up Delays in Rape Case in 2nd Letter to PM

Additional notable bills include:

  • The Assam Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Reservation of Vacancies in Services and Posts) (Amendment) Bill, 2024: Enhances reservation policies for SCs and STs.
  • The Assam Official Language (Amendment) Bill, 2024: Updates language use provisions.
  • The Assam Urban Water Bodies (Preservation and Conservation) Bill, 2024: Aims to preserve urban water bodies.
  • The Assam Skill University (Amendment) Bill, 2024: Focuses on improving skill development programs.

Chief Minister Sarma stated, “The Autumn Session 2024 will be remembered for passing laws that will transform Assam, empowering our Dalit and Adivasi communities and strengthening Nari Shakti.”

Centre Accuses Mamata Banerjee of Attempting to Cover Up Delays in Rape Case in 2nd Letter to PM


1. The Centre replied to Mamata Banerjee’s second letter to PM Modi on tougher laws.
2. The government criticized Banerjee, accusing her of trying to “cover up delays”.
3. Banerjee had requested stricter central laws and punishments for heinous crimes.


Kolkata, Aug 31: The Centre responded to Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s second letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in which she requested tougher central laws and exemplary punishment for heinous crimes like rape and murder.

The government criticized Banerjee and accused her of attempting to “cover up delays.”

Union Women and Child Development Minister Annapurna Devi’s letter to Banerjee highlighted that the Bengal government has not operationalized 11 additional Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) meant to handle rape and sexual assault cases.

Devi emphasized that stringent laws and exemplary punishments for such crimes are already in place and urged the state to implement them fully.

Devi pointed out that despite 48,600 pending rape and POCSO cases in West Bengal, the state has yet to activate the additional 11 FTSCs. “The information in your letter is factually incorrect and seems to be an attempt to cover up the delays in operationalizing these courts,” Devi stated.

Earlier, Banerjee had written to PM Modi, reiterating her call for stricter central legislation and prompt handling of rape and murder cases, following the outrage over the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College on August 9. Banerjee had demanded time-bound disposal of such cases.


Also Read: Assam Government’s Debt Surges by 107% Over the Last 5 Years: CAG Report

Devi clarified that West Bengal established 88 Fast Track Courts (FTCs), which differ from the FTSCs funded under the central scheme. She explained that FTCs handle a range of cases, including civil disputes and some criminal cases, and that 81,141 cases were pending in FTCs as of June 30 this year.

Regarding the appointment of permanent judicial officers in FTSCs, Devi stated that one judicial officer and seven staff members are dedicated to handling rape and POCSO cases according to guidelines. She added that additional charges cannot be assigned to existing judicial officers and suggested states engage staff on a contractual basis if needed.

Devi reaffirmed that stringent punishments for rape, including life imprisonment or death penalty, are already part of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) mandates swift investigation and trial processes.

She urged the state government to adhere to central laws to strengthen the criminal justice system and ensure justice for victims.

Devi’s letter follows nationwide protests demanding justice for the RG Kar Medical College victim, whose case is under investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Assam Government’s Debt Surges by 107% Over the Last 5 Years: CAG Report


1. Assam’s debt increased by over 107% from 2018-19 to 2022-23, per the CAG report.
2. Liabilities growth rate also surged during this period.
3. State’s capital expenditure dropped by over 20% in FY’23 compared to 2021-22.


Guwahati, Aug 31: The Assam government’s outstanding debt surged by over 107% between 2018-19 and 2022-23, with the growth rate of liabilities also rising during this period, according to a Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report released on Friday.

The report, presented in the assembly for the 2022-23 fiscal year, highlighted a significant decrease of over 20% in the state government’s capital expenditure in FY’23 compared to 2021-22.

The state’s outstanding debt saw a sharp increase of 107.34%, rising from ₹59,425.61 crore in 2018-19 to ₹1,23,214.80 crore in 2022-23. The growth rate of outstanding liabilities also climbed from 20.60% in 2018-19 to 23.32% in 2022-23.


Also Read: Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang Slams SFA Over Sikkim Premier League Dispute

The ratio of outstanding liabilities to Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) rose from 19.21% in 2018-19 to 24.98% in FY’23, driven by increased borrowings from the open market.

Public debt constituted 81.98% of the total borrowings by the end of 2022-23. During the year, it grew by 26.15%, the second-highest rate in the past five years. The average growth rate of public debt at 23.92% also outpaced GSDP growth, which was 11.91% during the same period.

The report warned that this trend could lead to increased pressure on interest payments in the coming years.

Capital expenditure, which is used for the creation of infrastructure such as roads and buildings, decreased by 20.51%, from ₹20,125.83 crore in 2021-22 to ₹15,999.71 crore in 2022-23.

Revenue expenditure in 2022-23 stood at ₹1,01,814.65 crore, making up 84.88% of the total expenditure of ₹1,19,952.20 crore.

The report also pointed out a misclassification of ₹6,668.99 crore, where grants-in-aid given by the state government were incorrectly classified as capital expenditure instead of revenue expenditure, leading to an overstatement of capital expenditure.

The government’s committed expenditure, including salaries, pensions, and interest payments, steadily increased by ₹16,548.72 crore over the five years from 2018-23.

Despite these challenges, the state’s GSDP grew from ₹3.09 lakh crore in 2018-19 to ₹4.93 lakh crore in 2022-23, with a compound annual growth rate of 12.27%.

The state achieved a revenue surplus in only two of the five years between 2018-19 and 2022-23 and managed to keep the fiscal deficit below the target set by the Assam Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (AFRBM) Act in two of the five years under review.

Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang Slams SFA Over Sikkim Premier League Dispute


1. A dispute over the Sikkim Premier League (SPL) has sparked tension between the Sikkim Football Association (SFA) and the state government.
2. The conflict centers on who holds the authority to organize and host the prestigious tournament.
3. The controversy raises questions about the rightful ownership of the SPL brand and the future management of the league.


Gangtok, 30: A dispute has arisen in Sikkim over the upcoming Sikkim Premier League (SPL), creating tension between the Sikkim Football Association (SFA) and the state government. The conflict revolves around the authority to organize and host this prestigious football tournament.

The SFA recently announced plans to hold the 2024-25 SPL at Paljor Stadium in Gangtok from August 31 to October 10, featuring eight premier division clubs. However, this move has sparked strong criticism from Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang.

“Through digital media, I learned that the Sikkim Football Association is organizing a separate Sikkim Premier League. As everyone knows, the SPL is already professionally managed by Football Development (P) Ltd. with the primary goal of promoting football in our state,” Tamang remarked.


Also Read: Assam Assembly Breaks Friday Adjournment for Namaz

He further emphasized, “We must collectively work for the betterment of football and our players. Initiatives like this only create unnecessary confusion and controversy, and we should focus on what is best for the sport.”

At the center of the dispute is the question of who owns the rights to the SPL brand. Football Development (P) Ltd. (FDPL), the company traditionally managing the league, claims that the SFA is using their brand name without authorization.

In a letter to the state’s Sports Minister Raju Basnet, FDPL urged government intervention, arguing that the SPL, initiated by the Chief Minister himself to nurture football talent in Sikkim, must be protected to maintain its integrity.

The FDPL board, which includes notable players like Nirmal Chettri, Robin Gurung, and Sanju Pradhan, insists that the league should remain under government oversight.

As the scheduled start date nears, neither the SFA nor the state government appears willing to compromise. The stalemate casts uncertainty over this year’s SPL, potentially affecting players and fans alike.

Assam Assembly Breaks Friday Adjournment for Namaz


1. The Assam Legislative Assembly has abolished the 1946 tradition of adjourning sessions on Fridays for Namaz.
2. This practice allowed the Assembly to pause between 11:30 am and 1 pm for Muslim members to offer prayers.
3. The decision reflects a commitment to secularism and the principle of equality in legislative proceedings.


Guwahati, Aug 30: The Assam Legislative Assembly has made a landmark decision by abolishing the long-standing tradition of adjourning sessions on Fridays for Namaz.

This practice, in place since 1946, allowed the Assembly to pause proceedings between 11:30 am and 1 pm on Fridays to enable Muslim members to offer their weekly prayers.

The tradition was initiated under the speakership of Sayed Sadullah, with the House adjourning for Namaz before resuming legislative work in the afternoon.

Namaz


Also Read: N Biren Singh Thanks Himanta Biswa Sarma for Making Manipuri an Associate Official Language in Assam

However, in a significant shift, Speaker Biswajit Daimary proposed ending this practice to reflect the secular principles of the Indian Constitution.

Daimary emphasized that the Assembly should function on Fridays without religious interruptions, promoting equality and non-discrimination.

The Rules Committee, chaired by Daimary, reviewed and unanimously approved the proposal.

The adjournment rule was officially abolished in today’s House vote to amend the Rules of Procedure. This decision hailed as a modernization of the legislature, reaffirms the commitment to secularism and equal treatment in the legislative process.

N Biren Singh Thanks Himanta Biswa Sarma for Making Manipuri an Associate Official Language in Assam


1. Manipur CM N Biren Singh thanked Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma for declaring Manipuri as an Associate Official Language in Assam.
2. Singh expressed his deep appreciation during a phone call, highlighting the significance of this decision.
3. He emphasized that this move will greatly help in preserving the language and culture of the Manipuri community in Assam.


Imphal, Aug 30: Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh expressed his gratitude to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for declaring Manipuri as an Associate Official Language in Assam.

During a phone call with Sarma, Singh conveyed his deep appreciation, emphasizing that this decision would significantly contribute to preserving the language and culture of the Manipuri community in Assam.

Singh stated, “Recognizing Manipuri as an Associate Official Language will undoubtedly empower the Manipuri community in Assam and help safeguard our language and culture for future generations.”

He also thanked Sarma for ensuring that Manipuri-speaking candidates in Assam would soon be able to take various exams in their native language.

In response, CM Sarma reaffirmed Assam’s commitment to supporting the Manipuri community, stating, “The communities of our Sister States are united by shared values. We are dedicated to providing opportunities for progress and growth to the Manipuri community in Assam.”

On August 29, the Assam Government passed the Assam Official Language Amendment Bill, 2024, officially designating Manipuri as an Associate Official Language in four districts.


Also Read: Manipur CM N Biren Singh to Mamata Banerjee: How Dare You Threaten the Northeast?

This historic decision comes in response to longstanding demands from the Manipuri-speaking population, particularly in the Barak Valley.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pijush Hazarika introduced the Bill on behalf of the Chief Minister.

The Bill, introduced in the House on August 22, grants Manipuri Associate Official Language status alongside Assamese in the three districts of Barak Valley—Cachar, Hailakandi, and Karimganj—as well as in Hojai district in central Assam.

A significant number of Manipuri-speaking people reside in the Barak Valley and other regions of Assam.

“The demand for official recognition of their language has been persistent, and the government remains committed to preserving the cultural and linguistic identity of every community in the state,” said Chief Minister Sarma in his Statement of Objects and Reasons.

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