asd
Home Blog Page 78

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Criticizes Congress Over Muslim Reservation, Condemns Lalu Prasad Yadav’s Remark


1. Sarma accuses Congress of distorting reservation policies, referencing Lalu Prasad Yadav’s statement.
2. Concerns were raised over Congress’s alleged intention to include Muslims in reservation policies.
3. Sarma highlights Lalu Yadav’s statement as a validation of previous apprehensions regarding Congress’s motives.


Guwahati, May 07: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma accused the Congress party of attempting to manipulate reservation policies to include Muslims, citing a statement made by former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav on May 7.

Expressing concerns about the Congress party’s intentions, Sarma stated, “We were alleging that Congress wants to distort reservation for the entry of Muslims. Today, Lalu Yadav’s statement vindicated our apprehension.”

Meanwhile, Sarma cast his vote in the final phase of the Lok Sabha elections in the state, expressing confidence in the democratic process. Following his vote, he commended the peaceful conduct of the electoral exercise and noted a significant voter turnout across the state.

“Today is the last day of the Assam election. We have completed it peacefully. There was a very good turnout. Almost we have recorded 80 percent voting in the first two phases. Today as well, I’m sure of an 80 percent voting percentage,” Sarma remarked. “People of Assam will support a Bharat which will become a Vishwa Guru.”


Also Read: Centre Requests Report from Assam Government on Alleged Forest Land Diversion in Geleki

The three-phase elections in Assam progressed smoothly, with voter participation reaching around 80 percent in the previous phases. Sarma anticipated a similar turnout in the final phase, citing the enthusiasm of the people of Assam in exercising their democratic rights.

“Not a single incident of violence or election-related disturbances has been reported in Assam. The people of Assam have participated enthusiastically in the festival of democracy,” Sarma emphasized.

Looking beyond Assam, Sarma expressed confidence in the electoral prospects of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its alliance partners in the Northeast region.

“Northeast BJP and its alliance will yield good results,” he stated, attributing the anticipated success to the developmental initiatives undertaken in the region under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“In Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha, West Bengal, and Northeast, all these states in eastern India, this time East India and Northeast India will play a historical role,” Sarma predicted, suggesting a potential landslide victory for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“The air and blessings are with Modi… People are blessings and the people of Assam are blessing Modi. This blessing will propel us forward,” he concluded.

Centre Requests Report from Assam Government on Alleged Forest Land Diversion in Geleki


1. MoEF&CC acknowledges allegations of forest land diversion in Sivasagar district, Assam-Nagaland border.
2. Ministry seeks detailed report from Assam government regarding alleged illegal clearing in Geleki Reserve Forest.
3. Concerns raised over establishment of commando battalion camp prompt official inquiry into the matter.


Guwahati, May 07: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has taken note of recent allegations concerning the diversion of forest land in the Sivasagar district along the Assam-Nagaland border.

Responding to claims of illegal clearing within the Geleki Reserve Forest for the establishment of a commando battalion camp, the MoEF&CC has requested a comprehensive report from the Assam government.

As reported by Northeast Now, the MoEF&CC, represented by Assistant Inspector General of Forests Suneet Bhardwaj, dispatched a letter dated April 25, 2024, to Assam’s additional chief secretary (Forests), urging for a detailed factual report on the purported illegal clearing spanning 28 hectares within the Geleki Reserve Forest in Sivasagar district.

The controversy arose from the approval granted in 2022 by then Assam’s principal chief conservator of forests (PCCF), MK Yadava, for the diversion of the said forest land for the establishment of a commando battalion camp.


Also Read: Himanta Biswa Sarma Exercises Voting Right in Amingaon Polling Station During Assam Lok Sabha Elections 2024

The official notification, issued on November 15, 2022, under the reference No FG 46/Border/Nagaland/Pt-11, cited the necessity for a commando battalion camp along the Assam-Nagaland border within the Geleki Reserve Forest for the “protection and conservation of reserved forest land and conservation of forest resources”.

The Ministry’s directive follows recent actions against MK Yadava for his alleged involvement in permitting the construction of a commando battalion unit within the Inner Line Reserve Forest on the Assam-Mizoram border by diverting approximately 44 hectares of forest land in 2023.

Concerns about land disputes and forest conservation have long plagued the region. Previous reports dating back to January 12, 2011, highlighted the contentious nature of the Geleki reserved forest, particularly within the traditional area of the Wamaken village.

The Assam government’s allocation of forest tracts within the Disputed Area Belt (DAB) to entities like ONGC has further fueled tensions, with implications for both environmental conservation and interstate border agreements.

ONGC’s exploration activities in areas adjacent to the Geleki Reserve Forest, such as the Tzurangkong belt under the Wamakan-Amguri area, have raised concerns about the potential impact on the environment and local communities.

Estimates suggest substantial crude oil reserves in these regions, with significant implications for economic development and environmental sustainability.

As the MoEF&CC seeks clarity on the alleged forest land diversion in Sivasagar district, the case underscores the delicate balance between development initiatives, environmental conservation, and adherence to legal and regulatory frameworks governing forest land use.

The Ministry has directed its regional offices in Shillong and Guwahati to collaborate closely with the Assam government to expedite the provision of necessary information and comments, signaling a commitment to transparency and accountability in addressing environmental concerns in the region.

Himanta Biswa Sarma Exercises Voting Right in Amingaon Polling Station During Assam Lok Sabha Elections 2024


1. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma voted at Amingaon for Barpeta Parliamentary Constituency on May 7.
2. NDA fields BJP ally Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) candidate Phani Bhusan Choudhury against Congress’ Deep Bayan.
3. Voter turnout across Assam’s four Lok Sabha constituencies reached 45.88% by 1 pm.


Guwahati, May 07: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma arrived at the Amingaon polling station on May 7 to exercise his voting right for the Barpeta Parliamentary Constituency.

In this electoral race, the NDA has nominated BJP ally Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) candidate Phani Bhusan Choudhury to contest against Congress’ Deep Bayan.

Across the four Lok Sabha constituencies in Assam, polling was underway on Tuesday as part of the third phase of elections, with officials reporting a voter turnout of 45.88 percent by 1 pm.


Also Read: Arunachal BJP Expels 28 Members for 6 Years Over Contesting Against Official Candidates

Dhubri registered the highest turnout, recording 47.73 percent, closely followed by Barpeta at 46.83 percent, Kokrajhar at 46.43 percent, and Guwahati at 42.13 percent.

The polling process commenced at 7 am and will continue until 5 pm.

In a recent media address, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma outlined the BJP’s strategy to secure a significant portion of the Muslim vote bank. Sarma claimed that half of the state’s Muslim electorate has already voted in favor of the BJP in completed constituencies. He attributed this support to the recognition among Muslim voters that the BJP’s agenda aligns with their interests.

As the third phase of polling approaches, attention is particularly focused on key constituencies like Barpeta and Guwahati. Sarma declared his active involvement in campaigning for BJP allies in these areas, emphasizing the importance of consolidating support among diverse communities.

Beyond electoral politics, Sarma launched a scathing critique of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi during a rally in Barpeta.

He contrasted the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a hypothetical scenario under Gandhi’s leadership. Sarma emphasized the strides made under Modi’s governance, particularly highlighting the effective handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Arunachal BJP Expels 28 Members for 6 Years Over Contesting Against Official Candidates


1. Arunachal Pradesh BJP expelled 28 members for six years for contesting against official party candidates.
2. The decision came after the individuals contested in the 2024 simultaneous Parliamentary and Assembly Election.
3. The party’s action reflects its commitment to discipline and adherence to internal party norms.


Itanagar, May 07: The Arunachal Pradesh BJP took decisive action on May 7, expelling 28 party members for six years due to their decision to contest elections against official party candidates in both Assembly and Parliamentary constituencies.

In an official statement released today, the Arunachal BJP highlighted the names of individuals who contested in the simultaneous Parliamentary and Assembly Election 2024 against the party’s officially nominated candidates.

Following the recommendation of the State Disciplinary Action Committee, chaired by Shri Tarh Tarak, the party announced the expulsion of these members for six years, effective immediately from the date of the expulsion order.


Also Read: Polling Agent Collapses at Mohanpur Nayapara Primary School in Bongaigaon Amid Assam Lok Sabha Elections

The list of expelled party members and their respective constituencies is as follows:

  1. Yeshi Tsewang – NPP
  2. Wangdi Dorjee Khrimey – NCP
  3. Tenzing Nyima Glow – Independent
  4. Nabam Vivek – PPA
  5. Mayu Taring – NPP
  6. Er. Tadar Mangku – PPA
  7. Dikto Yekar – NPP
  8. Ajay Murtem – NPP
  9. Tabe Doni – NPP
  10. Moli Riba – Independent
  11. Gokar Basar – NPP
  12. Jarkar Gamlin – PPA
  13. Taja Bonung – NPP
  14. Nobeng Burang – PPA
  15. Tapi Darang – NPP
  16. Oken Tayeng – PPA
  17. Badan Tayeng – NPP
  18. Likha Soni – NCP
  19. Laisam Simai – Independent
  20. Temphu Ngemu – NPP
  21. Dikhom Kitnya – NPP
  22. Wanglam Sawin(MLA) – Independent
  23. Yang Sen Matey – NCP
  24. Honting Wangpan – PPA
  25. Jowang Hosai – NCP
  26. Panjam Wangsa – NPP
  27. Nokchai Boham – PPA
  28. Tamat Gamoh – Independent

This decisive action underscores the party’s commitment to discipline and unity, ensuring adherence to party directives and loyalty to officially nominated candidates in elections.

Polling Agent Collapses at Mohanpur Nayapara Primary School in Bongaigaon Amid Assam Lok Sabha Elections


1. Polling agent collapses at Mohanpur Nayapara Primary School polling booth in Bongaigaon, Assam.
2. Incident leads to a 30-minute pause in polling before the agent is taken to the hospital.
3. Unfortunate event disrupts the electoral process temporarily on May 7.


Guwahati, May 07: In an unfortunate turn of events, a polling agent at the Mohanpur Nayapara Primary School No 171 polling booth in Jogighopa, Bongaigaon, Assam, collapsed while on duty on May 7.

The sudden incident resulted in a temporary halt in polling at the center, lasting for about 30 minutes. The unconscious polling agent was swiftly transported to the Bongaigaon Civil Hospital for urgent medical attention.


Also Read: Tripura Concerned as Goods Train Services Remain Suspended, NFR Requests Extension for Restoration

Meanwhile, Assam witnessed a 27.34 percent voter turnout in the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections across four constituencies by 11:30 am.

Kokrajhar recorded the highest polling percentage at 28.28 percent, followed closely by Dhubri at 27.77 percent.

Barpeta secured the third position with 27.19 percent, while Guwahati reported a voter participation rate of 26.25 percent.

Tripura Concerned as Goods Train Services Remain Suspended, NFR Requests Extension for Restoration

Agartala, May 07: The interruption of goods train services, stemming from a derailment in Assam’s Dima Hasao district, has raised concerns for the Tripura government, while the North East Frontier Railway (NFR) seeks additional time for restoration efforts.

Since April 26, goods train services to Tripura have been halted following a derailment incident in Assam’s Jatinga area, resulting in a shortage of essential goods in the northeastern state.

In response, the Tripura government has implemented fuel sale restrictions to manage the dwindling stock.

“Despite concerted efforts by the NFR, goods train services remain suspended. We will escalate the matter to the highest authorities,” remarked Tripura’s Transport Secretary, UK Chakma.


Also Read: Chaos at Assam Polling Booth as Voters Clash in Mankachar

The NFR, previously committed to restoring services by May 7, has now requested an extension of three days to accomplish the task.

Sabyasachi Dey, NFR CPRO, highlighted ongoing restoration efforts, with over 300 workers deployed at Jatinga. While passenger train services continue without disruption, goods train operations remain hampered since the April 26 derailment.

In response to the disruption in goods train services affecting food grain supply, Tripura’s Additional Secretary for Food and Civil Supplies, Nirmal Adhikari, convened a meeting on Monday with representatives from the Tripura Merchants’ Association (TMA) and Tripura Wholesale Grocery Merchants’ Association (TWGMA) to assess the situation.

Despite the disruption, officials reassured citizens, stating that the state maintains a food stockpile for approximately a month.

The meeting aimed to evaluate the impact of the goods train service disruption and urged merchants to continue procuring essential items, including food grains, via road transport until train services resume.

Chaos at Assam Polling Booth as Voters Clash in Mankachar


1. Chaos erupted at Mankachar polling booth in Assam’s Dhubri constituency on May 7.
2. Two groups clashed as voters queued at the No. 158 booth in Kathalbari.
3. Disorderly scenes unfolded outside the booth during the clash between the groups.


Guwahati, May 07: On May 7, chaos erupted at a polling booth in Mankachar, located within Assam’s Dhubri Lok Sabha constituency, as two groups clashed while voters waited to cast their ballots.

The clash occurred at the No. 158 polling booth in Kathalbari, resulting in disorderly scenes outside the booth. Security personnel were swiftly deployed to the scene to quell the disturbance and restore order among the voters.


Also Read: NASA Announces New Launch Date After Scrubbing Sunita Williams’ Third Space Flight

As the third phase of the Lok Sabha elections unfolded in Assam, data revealed a cumulative voter turnout of 27.34 percent across the four constituencies as of 11:30 am.

Kokrajhar recorded the highest polling percentage at 28.28 percent, closely trailed by Dhubri with 27.77 percent.

Barpeta followed suit with a turnout of 27.19 percent, while Guwahati witnessed a slightly lower participation rate at 26.25 percent.

NASA Announces New Launch Date After Scrubbing Sunita Williams’ Third Space Flight


1. Sunita Williams prepared for her third spaceflight, but NASA and Boeing cancelled the launch.
2. The Crew Flight Test, Starliner’s inaugural human spaceflight, was stopped due to an oxygen valve issue.
3. A faulty oxygen relief valve on the Atlas V rocket’s second stage led to the launch scrubbing.


Washington, D.C., Mat 07: Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams geared up for her third spaceflight, but just hours before lift-off, NASA and Boeing scrubbed the launch.

Cause of Scrubbing

The Starliner’s maiden human spaceflight, known as the Crew Flight Test, was halted due to a faulty oxygen relief valve on the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket’s second stage. Minutes later, astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams exited the Starliner spacecraft at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

Evaluation Process

NASA stated that the launch was scrubbed as teams evaluated an oxygen relief valve on the Centaur Stage of the Atlas V rocket. United Launch Alliance (ULA) reported the decision was made due to an observation of a liquid oxygen self-regulating solenoid relief valve on the Centaur upper stage. The team required additional time to complete a thorough assessment.


Also Read: Rain and Thunderstorms Cause Extensive Damage to Over 480 Houses in Meghalaya

Next Launch Attempt

NASA announced a new launch date for Boeing Starliner, with Sunita Williams and fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore, scheduled for May 10.

Technical Resolution

The delay allows teams to analyze data on a pressure regulation valve on the liquid oxygen tank of the Atlas V rocket’s Centaur upper stage. Depending on the outcome, a valve replacement may be necessary.

Certification Endeavor

The United States aims to certify a second spacecraft with orbital capabilities for crewed spaceflight.

While SpaceX’s Crew Dragon has taken the lead in the commercial space race, the Starliner spacecraft, named Calypso, offers autonomous or manual piloting capabilities. Its expected rendezvous and docking with the International Space Station is set for Wednesday.

Rain and Thunderstorms Cause Extensive Damage to Over 480 Houses in Meghalaya


1. Relentless rains and thunderstorms inflict substantial damage on Meghalaya’s residential areas and infrastructure.
2. Disaster Management Minister Kyrmen Shylla reports 483 houses, two schools, and one church were affected, impacting around 949 people.
3. The calamity prompts urgent response measures to provide relief and support to affected communities across the state.


Shillong, May 07: Meghalaya has been hit hard by relentless rains and thunderstorms, causing significant damage to residential properties and infrastructure.

According to Disaster Management Minister Kyrmen Shylla, a total of 483 houses, along with two schools and one church, bore the brunt of the disaster, affecting nearly 949 individuals across the state.

The adverse weather conditions, marked by heavy rainfall and strong winds, commenced on Sunday and persisted in various regions into Monday.

Shylla highlighted that seven out of the state’s 12 districts suffered from the calamity, with Eastern West Khasi Hills experiencing the most severe impact.

Efforts are underway by deputy commissioners and Block Development Officers (BDOs) to provide relief to the affected populace.

Shylla emphasized the ongoing assessments across all districts and blocks to ascertain the extent of the damage, facilitating prompt response measures.


Also Read: Alia Bhatt’s Met Gala 2024 Appearance: Overseas Press Eagerly Calls Out Her Name on the Red Carpet. Watch

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma assured that the district administration is mobilizing resources urgently to offer aid to those impacted by the calamitous weather conditions.

Sangma acknowledged the widespread damage caused to numerous residences due to the relentless rains and forceful winds, directing the administration to swiftly initiate relief efforts.

In the face of this natural disaster, the government is focused on providing immediate assistance and support to affected communities, prioritizing their safety and well-being amidst the challenging circumstances.

Alia Bhatt’s Met Gala 2024 Appearance: Overseas Press Eagerly Calls Out Her Name on the Red Carpet. Watch


1. Alia Bhatt makes her second MET Gala appearance, dazzling fans with Bollywood elegance.
2. Wearing a saree by Sabyasachi Mukerji, she shines as India’s standout ambassador at the event.
3. Her presence highlights India’s influence on the global fashion stage.


Entertainment, May 07: Alia Bhatt graced the MET Gala for the second time this year, captivating fans with her Bollywood glamour.

Donning a saree crafted by her favorite designer, Sabyasachi Mukerji, she stood as India’s prominent representative at the prestigious event.

Amidst the admiration for her stunning ensemble, keen observers caught a heartwarming moment during her ascent up the MET stairs.

Videos capturing Alia’s red carpet stroll depict her gracefully posing for photographs while photographers from around the globe fervently call out her name.

With a radiant smile, she elegantly showcases her 23-foot train as the paparazzi passionately scream her name. This enchanting sight stirred excitement among fans, who quickly shared their awe on social media platforms.

On Twitter, one user shared the video, highlighting Alia’s cultural representation at the Met Gala 2024 and the enthusiastic reception from the international press. Another echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the hype surrounding Alia Bhatt as she graced the Met Gala’s red carpet.

Alia’s MET Gala appearance also set social media abuzz, catapulting her to the top of Twitter trends.

Taking to Instagram, she provided a detailed insight into her saree, shedding light on its meticulous craftsmanship and symbolic significance. Reflecting on the theme of timelessness, she expressed gratitude for the collaborative effort that brought her vision to life.

The saree, a fusion of tradition and innovation, epitomizes the timeless sophistication of Indian nobility.

Adorned with intricate hand embroidery, precious stones, and elegant beadwork, it pays homage to the 1920s fringe style while celebrating the beauty of nature through its color palette.


Also Read: Bengal Poll Violence Persists: Allegations of Fake Agents, Bombing, and Voter Intimidation in Phase 3

Alia’s ethereal appearance was complemented by an elaborate coiffure and soft freckles, capturing the essence of nostalgia and timeless elegance.

The creation of this masterpiece involved the dedication of 163 individuals, including master craftsmen and artists, who invested a total of 1965 man-hours.

Alia expressed profound gratitude to her team for their collaborative efforts in bringing her vision to fruition, describing the process as both fun and stressful.

Alia Bhatt’s Met Gala journey commenced in 2023 with a memorable debut, where she paid homage to Karl Lagerfeld in a bespoke white gown adorned with delicate pearls.

This year, her enchanting presence and exquisite attire once again captivated hearts, solidifying her status as a global fashion icon.

- Advertisement -