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Supreme Court Issues Notice to NTA and Centre Over NEET, Citing Even Minor Negligence


1. Supreme Court issues notices to NTA and Central government over NEET-UG 2024 exam irregularities.
2. Emphasizes stringent scrutiny despite minor negligence allegations.
3. Responds to protests from medical aspirants and parents, urging transparency in investigation.


New Delhi, June 18: The Supreme Court has issued notices to the National Testing Agency (NTA) and the Central government following allegations of paper leaks and malpractices in the NEET-UG 2024 exam.

Amidst protests from medical aspirants and their parents, the apex court emphasized the need for thorough scrutiny even in cases of minor negligence.

NEET serves as India’s primary entrance exam for medical and related fields, conducted annually by the NTA.

The court directed notices to the NTA and Centre, stressing that even 0.001% negligence should be addressed comprehensively.


Also Read: Himanta Biswa Sarma Urges Mamata Banerjee to Hand Over IIT ‘Murder’ Probe to CBI

“Any negligence, no matter how small, must be addressed thoroughly,” the Supreme Court asserted.

Acknowledging the efforts of aspirants in preparing for one of the nation’s toughest exams, the court remarked, “We cannot overlook the hard work put in by students.”

Justice Vikram Nath urged the NTA to take prompt action as expected by the Supreme Court.

The court scheduled further hearings on the petitions for July 8.

NEET-UG 2024 was conducted on May 5 across 4,750 centers in 571 cities, with results announced on June 4.

Controversy arose post-results over the awarding of grace marks to 1,563 students, prompting the NTA to cancel the exam for these candidates.

These students are slated to retake the exam on June 23, with results expected before June 30.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan assured strict action against NTA officials implicated in any irregularities.

Responding to petitions seeking cancellation of the 2024 exam and a CBI or independent agency probe, the Supreme Court is expected to oversee investigations into alleged irregularities, including claims of unusual score distributions.

“The anomalies need thorough investigation by the CBI or an independent agency under court supervision,” the plea stated.

Himanta Biswa Sarma Urges Mamata Banerjee to Hand Over IIT ‘Murder’ Probe to CBI


1. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma urges WB CM Mamata Banerjee to transfer IIT-Kharagpur student Faizan Ahmed’s death probe to CBI.
2. The latest forensic report reveals gunshot and stab wounds on Ahmed’s body, raising concerns.
3. Sarma seeks a transparent investigation to ensure justice for Ahmed’s family.


Guwahati, June 18: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has urged West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee to transfer the investigation into the death of IIT-Kharagpur student Faizan Ahmed to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

This request comes in the wake of startling revelations from the latest forensic report, which was conducted under the directive of the Calcutta High Court.

According to Sarma, the second forensic report uncovered a gunshot wound on the upper left side of Ahmed’s neck and a stab wound on the right side.

These findings have raised serious concerns about the circumstances surrounding Ahmed’s demise.

In his letter to Mamata Banerjee, Sarma emphasized the need for a thorough investigation to ensure justice for Ahmed and closure for his grieving family. He stressed that bringing the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice, along with anyone involved in covering it up, is paramount.

Sarma pointed out that he had previously written to Banerjee in October 2022, urging her to initiate a comprehensive inquiry into Ahmed’s unnatural death.

Ahmed, aged 23 and hailing from Tinsukia in Assam, was discovered deceased in his hostel room at IIT-Kharagpur on October 14, 2022. Initially deemed a suicide by the institute’s authorities, Ahmed’s parents raised objections, citing visible injury marks on his body.


Also Read: Kanchanjunga Accident: Numerous Trains Cancelled, Ongoing Repair Work at Crash Site

Subsequently, Ahmed’s mother approached the Calcutta High Court in May 2023, seeking the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to delve into the circumstances of her son’s death.

The court, responding to these pleas, ordered the exhumation of Ahmed’s remains and a second post-mortem examination to ascertain the truth behind his demise.

A third-year mechanical engineering student, Ahmed’s untimely death has sparked significant public outcry and demands for a transparent investigation.

Sarma’s request to transfer the case to the CBI underscores the urgency and necessity of an impartial inquiry into this tragic incident that has left many questions unanswered.

Kanchanjunga Accident: Numerous Trains Cancelled, Ongoing Repair Work at Crash Site


1. Goods train collision with Kanchanjunga Express in Siliguri caused nine deaths and multiple injuries.
2. After the incident, several train services were cancelled or diverted.
3. The tragedy disrupted normal railway operations in the affected area.


Siliguri, June 18: A tragic incident unfolded in Bengal’s Siliguri on Monday when a goods train collided with the Kanchanjunga Express from behind, resulting in nine fatalities and numerous injuries.

As a consequence, several train services were either cancelled or rerouted.

Despite the collision, the Kanchanjunga Express managed to reach its destination at Kolkata’s Sealdah station by 3:16 am on Tuesday after undergoing extensive restoration efforts.

The site of the crash still bore the wreckage of the mangled compartments, where ongoing repair work aimed to clear the debris.

Initially, the Railway Board attributed the collision to the goods train’s driver overshooting the signal.

However, subsequent investigations revealed that the automatic signalling system along the affected stretch had malfunctioned since Monday morning.

This failure allowed the goods train to proceed despite red signals, leading to the tragic collision.


Also Read: Assam Police Seizes Assault Rifle and Live Ammunition in Udalguri

Here are the latest updates on the Kanchanjunga train tragedy:

  • Surviving passengers were visibly emotional upon arrival at Sealdah, with Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim seen consoling distraught passengers.
  • Train operations resumed in the Phansidewa area of the Darjeeling district, adjacent to the accident site, with trains like the Kamakhya Express passing through unaffected lines.
  • Subhendu Kumar Choudhary, Divisional Railway Manager of Katihar Northeast Frontier Railway, confirmed ongoing restoration efforts aimed at normalizing operations swiftly.

Political reactions also surfaced amidst the tragedy:

  • Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticized the Centre’s handling of railways, alleging neglect and emphasizing her past efforts in railway safety initiatives.
  • BJP’s Bengal chief Sukanta Majumdar countered Banerjee’s claims, dismissing them as politically motivated during a sensitive time.

Assistance and support measures were promptly organized:

  • Deepak Nigam, Divisional Railway Manager of Sealdah, assured that medical teams and ambulances were deployed at Sealdah station to aid Kanchanjunga Express passengers.
  • Jaya Varma Sinha, Chairperson of the Railway Board, outlined the extent of the damage to the Kanchanjunga Express but affirmed that no passenger coaches were harmed.

The accident prompted the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) to initiate an investigation into its cause, as Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw visited the site to assess the situation firsthand. However, the Congress party demanded Vaishnaw’s resignation over perceived ministry mismanagement.

In terms of financial aid, families of the deceased were promised Rs 2 lakh each from the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund (PMNRF), with Rs 50,000 earmarked for the injured.

Additionally, Vaishnaw announced Rs 10 lakh compensation for the deceased families, Rs 2.5 lakh for grievously injured, and Rs 50,000 for minor injuries.

The aftermath of the Kanchanjunga Express tragedy underscores the need for enhanced railway safety protocols and a meticulous review of existing infrastructure to prevent such incidents in the future.

Assam Police Seizes Assault Rifle and Live Ammunition in Udalguri


1. Udalguri Police seized an illegal assault rifle and a large cache of live ammunition.
2. Two individuals were arrested in the operation.
3. Led by SP Pushkin Jain, the operation occurred in Shantipur near Gauribari.


Guwahati, June 18: In a significant operation, Udalguri Police seized an illegal assault rifle and a substantial cache of live ammunition, resulting in the arrest of two individuals.

The operation, hailed as a major success, was led by Udalguri Superintendent of Police Pushkin Jain and took place in Shantipur near Gauribari.

The seizure included an AK-56 assault rifle, a magazine, and 668 rounds of live ammunition. Assam’s Director General of Police, Gyanendra Pratap Singh, praised the police team’s efforts.

In a post on X, he wrote, “One AK Series Rifle, 668 rounds of ammunition & a magazine recovered in Udalguri. Two persons arrested.”


Also Read: Arunachal Pradesh: Heavy Rains Trigger Major Disruptions, Block Key Roads

While the identities of those apprehended remain undisclosed, the recovery of these arms and ammunition marks a significant achievement in the region’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal weapon possession and trafficking.

This successful operation underscores the vigilance and dedication of the Udalguri Police in maintaining law and order and ensuring public safety in Assam.

Arunachal Pradesh: Heavy Rains Trigger Major Disruptions, Block Key Roads


1. Continuous heavy rainfall since June 17 has wreaked havoc in Arunachal Pradesh.
2. Significant disruptions have severely impacted the region’s connectivity.
3. The Karsingsa road, a crucial artery, has been completely washed away.


Itanagar, June 18: Continuous heavy rainfall since June 17 has wreaked havoc in Arunachal Pradesh, causing significant disruptions and severely impacting the region’s connectivity.

The unrelenting downpours have led to the complete washing away of the Karsingsa road, a crucial artery that facilitates the movement of people and goods.

Additionally, the important route from Nirjuli to Banderdewa is currently blocked, further compounding the inconvenience for commuters and isolating certain areas.

Authorities have promptly responded to the crisis, assessing the extent of the damage and mobilizing resources to restore the vital roads.

The district administration is on high alert, with teams working around the clock to address the situation and mitigate further damage. The government’s swift response underscores the critical importance of these routes for the region’s socio-economic stability.

The heavy rains have also triggered numerous landslides, exacerbating the situation. Key roads across the state are strewn with debris, making travel treacherous and sometimes impossible.


Also Read: PM Modi Announces Rs 2 Lakh Compensation for West Bengal Train Tragedy Victims

The relentless rains have tested the resilience of the infrastructure, revealing vulnerabilities that need to be addressed urgently to prevent future disruptions.

The district administration has allocated substantial resources to repair the damage in response to the crisis.

Bulldozers, excavators, and labor crews have been dispatched to the most affected areas to clear the debris and restore traffic flow. Despite the challenging weather conditions, efforts are underway to reopen the roads and ensure safe passage for commuters.

The restoration process, however, is expected to take time, given the scale of the destruction and the continuing adverse weather.

Local residents have expressed their frustration and concern over the disruptions.

Many rely on these key roads for their daily commutes, access to essential services, and economic activities. The blockade of the Nirjuli to Banderdewa route, in particular, has left many stranded and unable to reach their destinations.

The economic impact of the road closures is also significant, as delays in the transportation of goods affect local businesses and markets.

The state government has urged the public to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel until the situation stabilizes.

Emergency services are on high alert, ready to assist those in need. Authorities have set up helplines and information centers to keep the public informed about the progress of the restoration efforts and any alternative routes that may be available.

In the wake of the disaster, there have been calls for a comprehensive review of the region’s infrastructure resilience.

Experts suggest that long-term solutions, including better drainage systems, more robust construction standards, and improved disaster preparedness plans, are essential to mitigate the impact of such natural calamities in the future.

The situation in Arunachal Pradesh remains fluid, with weather forecasts indicating continued rainfall in the coming days.

The state is bracing for further challenges, but the combined efforts of the government, local authorities, and the community provide hope that normalcy will be restored soon.

The current crisis is a stark reminder of the need for proactive measures to safeguard the region’s infrastructure against the increasingly frequent and severe weather events.

PM Modi Announces Rs 2 Lakh Compensation for West Bengal Train Tragedy Victims


1. PM Modi announced Rs 2 lakh ex-gratia for families of deceased in the West Bengal train accident.
2. Rs 50,000 will be granted to each injured person.
3. Funds will be provided from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF).


New Jalpaiguri, June 17: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced that an ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) will be provided to the families of each deceased individual in the tragic railway accident in West Bengal.

Additionally, Rs 50,000 will be granted to each injured person.

Expressing his grief over the incident on social media platform X, PM Modi stated, “The railway accident in West Bengal is saddening. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover at the earliest. Spoke to officials and took stock of the situation. Rescue operations are underway to assist the affected. The Railways Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw Ji is on the way to the site of the mishap as well.”

The mishap occurred near Rangapani station in West Bengal, where a collision between a goods train and the Sealdah-bound Kanchanjunga Express took place. Police reports indicate that at least five individuals lost their lives, while approximately 30 others sustained injuries in the collision.


Also Read: IMD Forecasts Persistent Rainfall as Heavy Downpour Causes Severe Waterlogging in Guwahati

Rescue operations were promptly initiated at the site, located about seven kilometers from North Bengal’s New Jalpaiguri station. Injured passengers were swiftly transported to nearby hospitals for urgent medical treatment.

Railway officials revealed that the incident occurred around 9 am in the Phansidewa area of Darjeeling district, causing significant damage to three coaches of the Kanchanjunga Express (Train No. 13174).

The Kanchanjunga Express had departed from Guwahati at 11 pm on June 16 and was en route to Sealdah when the collision occurred.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also expressed shock over the tragedy on social media, highlighting the urgent response measures taken in the Phansidewa area.

She confirmed the deployment of rescue teams, medical assistance, and district authorities to manage the crisis and extend support to those affected by the accident.

IMD Forecasts Persistent Rainfall as Heavy Downpour Causes Severe Waterlogging in Guwahati


1. Intense rainfall in Guwahati, including Anil Nagar and Chandmari, results in severe waterlogging.
2. Daily life is severely disrupted as streets become submerged.
3. Residents and commuters face significant challenges due to the waterlogged conditions.


Guwahati, June 17: Intense rainfall in Guwahati, including Anil Nagar and Chandmari areas, has caused severe waterlogging, severely disrupting daily life.

Streets are submerged, posing challenges for residents and commuters.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts continued rainfall throughout the week, suggesting further difficulties ahead for the city.

Local authorities are urged to take swift action to manage the situation and minimize public inconvenience.


Also Read: Major Train Collision Near New Jalpaiguri: Kanchenjunga Express and Goods Train Incident

In the past 24 hours, relentless torrential rains have led to a significant increase in water levels in the Brahmaputra River and its tributaries across Assam, surpassing the warning level.

This rise has disrupted road and rail connections in the northeastern region due to landslides and ongoing rainfall threats.

The IMD has issued a serious warning, highlighting the imminent risk of flash floods in Assam and Meghalaya as heavy rainfall persists.

Authorities remain on high alert, preparing emergency responses to protect affected communities.

Major Train Collision Near New Jalpaiguri: Kanchenjunga Express and Goods Train Incident


1. Near New Jalpaiguri station, a goods train collided with Sealdah-bound Kanchenjunga Express after departure.
2. Two coaches of Kanchenjunga Express derailed in the severe impact.
3. Concerns arise over injuries to passengers; rescue efforts are underway.


New Jalpaiguri, June 17: In a harrowing incident this morning near New Jalpaiguri station, a goods train collided with the Sealdah-bound Kanchenjunga Express shortly after the passenger train had departed.

The impact was severe, leading to the derailment of two coaches of the Kanchenjunga Express and causing concerns about passenger injuries.

The collision created a chaotic scene as rescue operations quickly mobilized to assist those affected.

According to initial reports, the goods train collided with the Kanchenjunga Express as it was gaining momentum after departing from New Jalpaiguri station, a crucial railway junction connecting several major cities and towns in the region.

Immediate Response and Rescue Efforts

Local authorities, including the District Magistrate (DM), Superintendent of Police (SP), and emergency rescue teams, swiftly responded to the scene of the accident. Their primary objective was to ensure the safety of passengers and coordinate the rescue operations effectively. Medical teams were also deployed to provide immediate assistance to any injured passengers.


Also Read: Landslide Destroys Road Linking Mangan District to Rest of Sikkim

Rescue teams faced initial challenges due to the derailment of two coaches, which complicated access to passengers who may have been trapped or injured. However, efforts were intensified to stabilize the situation and provide necessary medical care to those in need.

Passenger Safety Concerns

The collision has raised significant concerns about passenger safety and the operational protocols within the railway network. Passengers traveling on the Kanchenjunga Express were caught off guard by the sudden impact, with some sustaining injuries due to the force of the collision and subsequent derailment.

Authorities have begun the process of identifying and assessing the extent of injuries among passengers. Immediate medical attention was provided on-site, and arrangements were made to transport any seriously injured individuals to nearby hospitals for further treatment.

Impact on Rail Services

The collision near New Jalpaiguri station has had repercussions on railway services in the region. Authorities have temporarily halted train movements on the affected track to facilitate rescue and relief operations. This temporary suspension is aimed at ensuring the safety of passengers and conducting a thorough investigation into the cause of the incident.

Railway officials and engineers are also assessing the damage caused to the tracks and infrastructure as a result of the collision. Efforts are underway to clear the site of debris and restore normal train operations as soon as possible.

Investigation and Accountability

An investigation into the circumstances leading to the collision has been initiated by railway authorities. The focus will be on determining whether human error, technical failure, or other factors contributed to the tragic incident. Authorities will also examine adherence to safety protocols and the effectiveness of communication systems in preventing such accidents.

Community Support and Reaction

Local residents and community members near New Jalpaiguri station have extended their support to passengers and rescue teams involved in the incident. Many have volunteered to provide food, water, and shelter to those affected by the disruption in train services.

The incident has sparked a wave of concern and sympathy among the public, highlighting the need for enhanced safety measures and emergency response capabilities within the railway network.

As rescue operations continue and the investigation progresses, the focus remains on ensuring the well-being of passengers affected by the collision between the Kanchenjunga Express and the goods train near New Jalpaiguri station.

Authorities are committed to providing updates on the situation and taking necessary measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The railway ministry and local administration are working in tandem to manage the aftermath of this unfortunate incident, aiming to restore normalcy to railway operations and address the safety concerns of passengers and stakeholders alike.

Landslide Destroys Road Linking Mangan District to Rest of Sikkim


1. Landslide severs vital road linking Mangan district in Sikkim.
2. Transportation was severely disrupted; Mangan is isolated from neighboring districts.
3. Authorities assessing damage and mobilizing resources for restoration efforts.


Mangan, June 17: A landslide has severed the vital road connecting Mangan district with other parts of Sikkim, causing significant transportation disruption and isolating Mangan from neighboring districts. The incident underscores the region’s susceptibility to natural disasters.

Local authorities are currently evaluating the extent of the damage and mobilizing resources for swift restoration of connectivity.

Meanwhile, the Border Roads Organization (BRO) has launched an extensive effort to restore access to North Sikkim, severely impacted by continuous heavy rains since June 11.

Multiple roads leading to North Sikkim, such as Dikchu-Sanklang-Toong, Mangan-Sanklang, Singtham-Rangrang, and Rangrang-Toong, were affected by numerous landslides and breaches due to the unprecedented rainfall.

The situation worsened with the collapse of a newly constructed suspension bridge at Sanklang, a crucial link to North Sikkim and the Dzongu region.


Also Read: Rijiju and Kharge Convene Ahead of Key Parliament Session

The road blockages have left approximately 1,200-1,500 tourists stranded in North Sikkim.

Responding swiftly, the BRO deployed heavy machinery and hundreds of laborers to clear landslides along various routes.

They successfully cleared multiple slides along the Sanklang-Toong road, allowing passage for light vehicles. Additionally, they reopened the road stretch between Naga and Lanthakhola on the Mangan-Chungthang road for traffic.

Rijiju and Kharge Convene Ahead of Key Parliament Session


1. Kiren Rijiju, the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, met Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha and President of the Congress Party, in New Delhi on June 16.
2. Rijiju acknowledged Kharge’s insights and commitment to social media.
3. Both leaders expressed a shared dedication to national interests and collaboration.


New Delhi, Juen 17: Kiren Rijiju, the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, met with Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha and President of the Congress Party, in New Delhi on June 16.

Following their interaction, Rijiju took to social media to appreciate Kharge’s insights and shared commitment to national interests. “Together, we will strive for the nation,” Rijiju remarked, signaling collaboration.

The meeting holds significance ahead of the inaugural session of the 18th Lok Sabha, scheduled for June 24.


Also Read: Assam’s Lovlina Wins Silver at Grand Prix 2024, Prepares for Paris Olympics

This session will witness the swearing-in of newly elected members of the Lok Sabha and the election of its Speaker.

President Droupadi Murmu is expected to address a joint sitting of both Houses, outlining the government’s agenda for the upcoming term.

The Lok Sabha proceedings will commence on June 24, while the Rajya Sabha session is set to start on June 27. The Parliament session is slated to conclude on July 3 after a month-long legislative agenda.

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