asd
Home Blog Page 85

Tripura imposes fuel sale restrictions following Assam freight train derailment


1. Tripura imposes fuel sales restrictions due to disrupted goods train services.
2. Restrictions follow a derailment incident between Jatinga Lampur and New Harangajao in Assam.
3. Ongoing track restoration efforts prompt fuel sales restrictions by the Tripura government.


Agartala, May 01: The Tripura government has imposed restrictions on fuel sales, including petrol and diesel, owing to disruptions in goods train services stemming from ongoing track restoration efforts.

This move follows a recent derailment incident between Jatinga Lampur and New Harangajao in Assam.

Subrata Majumder, Deputy Director of the Department of Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs, informed that the derailment incident, coupled with heavy rainfall, led to soil shifting beneath the railway track, rendering approximately 200 meters of the track precarious.


Also Read: Commercial LPG cylinder price slashed by Rs 19

While passenger trains are permitted passage, goods trains are restricted to prevent further damage to the railway track. Repair work is underway and expected to continue until May 7th, with subsequent review for resuming goods train operations.

In Tripura, the sole storage depot of IOCL is located in Dharmanagar under the North District, capable of storing fuel for up to three days.

Despite the challenges posed by unfavorable road conditions, fuel transportation from Guwahati via trucks continues to meet the state’s daily fuel requirement of 275 kiloliters of petrol and 365 kiloliters of diesel.

To avert potential shortages, restrictions on fuel purchases have been implemented as per an order from the Department of Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs.

According to the directive, 2 and 4-wheeler vehicles are permitted to purchase petrol up to Rs 500 per day, while vehicles with six to twelve wheels and above can purchase diesel up to 80 liters per day.

These measures aim to manage fuel distribution efficiently and mitigate the impact of disrupted goods train services on the availability of fuel in Tripura.

Commercial LPG cylinder price slashed by Rs 19


1. Oil companies reduce commercial LPG cylinder prices by Rs 19, easing financial burdens.
2. Revised retail price in Delhi for 19kg commercial LPG cylinder now at Rs 1,745.50.
3. Relief for businesses and industries relying on LPG for operations.


New Delhi, May 01: Oil marketing companies have recently announced a reduction in the prices of commercial Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinders, providing relief to businesses and industries. Effective today, the rate for 19 kg commercial LPG gas cylinders has been decreased by Rs 19.

As per the revised pricing, the retail sales price of a 19kg commercial LPG cylinder in Delhi now stands at Rs 1,745.50. This adjustment in prices is anticipated to have a positive impact on various sectors that rely on LPG for their day-to-day operations.

The decision to decrease the prices of commercial LPG cylinders comes at a crucial time, coinciding with the ongoing Lok Sabha election in the country.

It’s worth noting that just last month, the price of a 19-kg commercial cylinder had been reduced by Rs 30.50 to Rs 1,764.50.


Also Read: Traffic Halted as Massive Landslide Near Sonapur Tunnel in Meghalaya; Truck Driver Safe

However, despite these reductions, opposition parties, particularly the Congress, have been critical of the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) for failing to address the issue of fuel prices and its ripple effect on the prices of essential commodities.

The precise factors behind this price cut haven’t been disclosed. However, it’s widely speculated that changes in international oil prices, tax policies, and supply and demand dynamics are key contributors.

It’s a customary practice for oil marketing companies to adjust the prices of both commercial and domestic LPG cylinders at the beginning of each month. Such revisions are often influenced by various economic factors and market conditions.

Traffic Halted as Massive Landslide Near Sonapur Tunnel in Meghalaya; Truck Driver Safe


1. Landslide near Sonapur tunnel on Meghalaya highway leaves truck damaged.
2. The driver and co-pilot escaped with minor injuries in the aftermath of the landslide.
3. Clearing operations underway to remove debris obstructing the critical arterial highway.


Shillong, May 01: A harrowing event unfolded near the Sonapur tunnel on the Meghalaya stretch of the Barak-Guwahati national highway as a massive landslide struck, leaving a truck driver and co-pilot grateful for their survival.

The landslide inflicted extensive damage on their vehicle, but they managed to escape with minor injuries.

Witnesses described the incident occurring along the Lumshnong – Ratacherra stretch, where a colossal tree and debris tumbled down from the hills, directly blocking the truck’s path.


Also Read: EC Releases Lok Sabha Poll Voter Turnout Data; Majority Regions Witness Decline

Despite the severe wreckage, the driver and co-pilot emerged with minor injuries, narrowly avoiding a fatal outcome.

The landslide halted traffic flow on the vital highway, leaving numerous vehicles stranded near the Sonapur tunnel. Clearance operations are underway, but the extensive debris suggests that the process may take hours to complete.

The aftermath has caused significant delays and inconvenience, with commuters advised to seek alternative routes until the highway is fully cleared and deemed safe.

The Sonapur tunnel, crucial for connecting Barak Valley and Guwahati, has a history of similar incidents, particularly during the monsoon season, due to the region’s susceptibility to landslides.

EC Releases Lok Sabha Poll Voter Turnout Data; Majority Regions Witness Decline


1. ECI released detailed voter turnout data after the first and second phases of elections.
2. Voter turnout decreased in 84% of parliamentary constituencies compared to previous elections.
3. Declines in turnout varied across constituencies, signaling shifts in voter participation patterns.


New Delhi, May 01: Eleven days post the closure of the first phase of general elections and four days since the second phase, the Election Commission of India (ECI) officially disclosed disaggregated voter turnout data.

It revealed that 84% of parliamentary constituencies witnessed declines in turnout figures of varying degrees.

Phase 1 recorded a voter turnout of 66.14%, while Phase 2 saw 66.71%, as per the ECI data released on Tuesday. These figures show a decline compared to the 2019 elections, where the turnout was 69.4% and 69.6% for the respective phases.

The final turnout will only be available after adding postal ballots to the total vote count, clarified the poll body on Tuesday. In Phase 1, approximately 110 million out of 166.3 million eligible voters cast their votes across 102 constituencies. Similarly, in Phase 2, about 106 million out of 158.8 million eligible voters participated across 88 constituencies.


Also Read: Manipur: Women Halt Indian Army Convoy, Seize 11 Suspects, Police Confirm

Among the 176 seats allowing a comparison with the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, varying declines were noted in 148.

However, comparison wasn’t feasible for 12 constituencies due to boundary redraws post-2019 elections. Additionally, Outer Manipur PC’s comparison couldn’t be made due to partial polling in both phases.

Out of the 19 states and UTs voting in the first phase where a comparison is possible, 16 saw a decline, while eight of the 11 provinces in the second phase experienced a decrease in turnout.

Though a slight turnout decrease might be compensated during postal ballot counting, it was not factored into the 2024 numbers, unlike the 2019 turnout data.

Among the 148 constituencies with Tuesday’s figures trailing those in 2019, 124 saw a decline of over two percentage points.

Notably, 57 constituencies experienced a decline of over five percentage points, with seven witnessing more than a 10-percentage-point decrease.

Manipur: Women Halt Indian Army Convoy, Seize 11 Suspects, Police Confirm


1. Women-led protesters intervene during the Indian Army’s detention of 11 armed individuals in Manipur.
2. Indian Army’s Mahar Regiment detains individuals dressed in police attire, per Manipur Police statements.
3. The incident occurs during patrolling in Manipur’s Bishnupur district, prompting women protesters’ intervention.


Imphal, May 01: A significant incident unfolded in Manipur’s Bishnupur district as a group of women-led protesters intervened during the detention of 11 armed individuals by the Indian Army. According to Manipur Police statements, the army’s Mahar Regiment detained these individuals, dressed in police fatigues, during patrolling.

The encounter resulted in the recovery of a cache of weapons, including rifles, ammunition, grenades, and bulletproof jackets.

Following the interception, members of the “Meira Paibis,” a collective of Meitei women, gathered at the scene demanding custody of the seized weapons.

Despite attempts by security forces to maintain control, the women forcibly took possession of the detained individuals.

Both Manipur Police and the Indian Army worked jointly to navigate through the hostile environment and safely secure the recovered weapons.


Also Read: Assam Government’s Investigation into Fake Encounter Case Questioned by Supreme Court

Amidst these events, videos surfaced on social media depicting a standoff between the women protesters and the Army convoy.

In response to the blockade, the Army is seen purportedly firing warning shots into the air to disperse the crowd.

Jaya Khagenbam, a protest leader, emphasized the vulnerability of villages in fringe areas like Kumbi to potential militant attacks due to the confiscation of weapons from village volunteers.

The situation eventually de-escalated, with officials confirming the return to normalcy as Army personnel withdrew from the scene.

Additionally, the Manipur Police clarified that the detained individuals were not linked to the April 27 incident at Naranseina, where two CRPF personnel lost their lives in a militant attack on an IRBn camp.

Investigations into both incidents remain ongoing, with no current connections established.

The attack at Naranseina resulted in the tragic loss of two CRPF personnel, identified as sub-inspector N Sarkar and head constable Arup Saini.

Militants launched a coordinated assault on the IRBn camp, firing indiscriminately and hurling explosives, leading to a prolonged confrontation during the late hours of the night.

Assam Government’s Investigation into Fake Encounter Case Questioned by Supreme Court


1. Supreme Court voices concerns on Assam fake encounter probes, citing PUCL guideline adherence.
2. Justices Surya Kant and KV Viswanathan query Assam’s compliance with encounter procedures.
3. Hearing delves into Assam’s adherence to PUCL guidelines for fake encounter investigations.


Guwahati, May 01: During a hearing, the Supreme Court expressed apprehensions regarding the investigations into alleged fake encounters in Assam, highlighting concerns over compliance with guidelines outlined in the PUCL judgment.

Justices Surya Kant and KV Viswanathan presided over the bench, raising questions about the Assam government’s adherence to the prescribed encounter investigation procedures.

The petitioner, Supreme Court lawyer Arif Jwadder, asserted that since May 20, 2021, over 80 individuals have fallen victim to fake encounters in Assam.

Advocate Prashant Bhushan, representing the petitioner, argued that the Assam police failed to adhere to the proper procedure following such encounters, emphasizing the state’s non-mandatory approach towards implementing the PUCL guidelines for every encounter.

The court expressed scepticism regarding the fairness and transparency of the investigations and sought clarification from the state on measures taken to ensure compliance with the PUCL guidelines.

The bench specifically requested suggestions for implementing these guidelines and proposed the appointment of retired judges and police officers to scrutinize each case, recommending remedial actions for any identified violations.


Also Read: April Heatwave Sets New Records Across India: IMD Data

Furthermore, the Supreme Court directed the Assam Human Rights Commission to furnish documents about inquiries initiated into these encounters, seeking details about the officers conducting the investigations and their findings.

Advocate Arif Jwadder’s petition advocates for an independent investigation into the alleged fake encounters in Assam and calls for the establishment of Human Rights Courts in the state as mandated by Section 30 of the Protection of Human Rights Act.

The respondents named in the case include the Assam government, the Assam DGP, and the state’s law and justice department.

April Heatwave Sets New Records Across India: IMD Data


1. Record-breaking April heatwave hits eastern and peninsular India during 2024 general elections.
2. Climate scientists link intense heat to climate crisis, raising concerns for public health.
3. Prolonged heatwave in April poses risks to residents amidst ongoing 2024 general elections.


Weather Forcast, May 01: Eastern and peninsular India experienced record-breaking temperatures throughout April, subjecting residents to prolonged periods of intense heat amid the backdrop of the 2024 general elections.

Climate scientists attribute this scorching heatwave to the ongoing climate crisis, warning of its implications on public health and safety.

According to data from the Meteorological Department, April marked the warmest on record for eastern and northeastern India in terms of night temperatures since records began in 1901, ranking as the third warmest in mean temperatures.

Similarly, the peninsula witnessed its second warmest April across maximum, minimum, and mean temperatures.

OP Sreejith, head of climate monitoring and prediction at the weather office, emphasized the role of El Nino and climate change in driving these unprecedented temperatures. However, despite the extreme conditions, heat-related fatalities often go unrecorded due to complications such as organ failure.


Also Read: Manipur: 11 Armed Miscreants in Police Attire Apprehended, Heavy Weapons Seized

In stark contrast, the northwest region, including Delhi, experienced relatively mild weather during April, courtesy of successive western disturbances that moderated temperatures.

The month ranked as the ninth warmest overall for the country, according to India Meteorological Department analysis.

The warmest April in peninsular India since 1901 was observed in 2016, coinciding with an El Nino event, a phenomenon characterized by weaker monsoons and drier weather patterns in India.

M Rajeevan, former secretary at the earth sciences ministry, noted the predictability of such events and anticipated their persistence for the next few days, potentially extending into central and northwest India in May.

Recent temperature records paint a grim picture of the heatwave’s impact, with severe heatwaves documented across Gangetic West Bengal, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, and West Bengal.

Notable extremes include Panagarh in West Bengal reaching 45.6 degrees Celsius, 10 degrees above normal, and Anantapur in Andhra Pradesh hitting 44.6 degrees, the highest ever recorded.

Mahesh Palawat, vice-president of climate and meteorology at Skymet Weather Services, highlighted the persistence of extreme heat across various regions, attributing it to landward winds influenced by an anti-cyclone over the Bay of Bengal.

This unprecedented heatwave underscores the urgent need for adaptive measures and proactive interventions to mitigate its adverse effects on public health and well-being.

Manipur: 11 Armed Miscreants in Police Attire Apprehended, Heavy Weapons Seized


1. Security forces in Manipur intercept and detain 11 armed individuals disguised as police.
2. Mahar Regiment conducts operation leading to arrest; cache of weapons recovered.
3. Weapons seized include AK rifles, INSAS rifles, hand grenades, and bulletproof jackets.


Imphal, May 01: In Manipur, security forces successfully intercepted and detained 11 armed individuals disguised in police attire.

The operation, conducted by a contingent of the Mahar Regiment, resulted in the apprehension of the group, who were found in possession of a substantial cache of weaponry, including AK rifles, INSAS rifles, SLRs, hand grenades, and bulletproof jackets.

However, the operation encountered resistance when a group of women obstructed the movement of security personnel and allegedly attempted to snatch the detained individuals during a confrontation.

Despite the hostile interference, collaborative efforts between teams from the Manipur Police and the Indian Army ensured the safe transfer of the detained individuals to Kumbi Police Station, where the recovered weapons and ammunition were secured. Following the incident, legal proceedings have been initiated to address the situation.


Also Read: India to Host 2025 BWF World Junior Championships in Guwahati, Assam

In the wake of these events, rumors circulating on social media have attempted to link the detained miscreants to the tragic incident on April 27th, 2024, in Naranseina, where two CRPF personnel lost their lives.

However, ongoing investigations have yet to establish any connection between the two incidents.

Security forces have intensified search operations in various fringe and vulnerable areas of Manipur, yielding significant discoveries. Weapons and ammunition were recovered from locations such as Zalenkot, Churachandpur, and Mantripukhri Bazar in Imphal East District.

Moreover, on April 29th, security forces apprehended Wangkhem Premjit, identified as a cadre of KCP (Lamyanba Khuman), and seized a 9mm pistol from his possession.

In a separate operation conducted in Kangpokpi District, three individuals were arrested, and a cache of explosive substances, along with suspected explosive ammunition, was confiscated.

Despite the security challenges, efforts have been made to ensure the unhindered movement of essential goods along NH-37 and NH-2. Numerous checkpoints have been established across the state, resulting in the detention of 122 individuals for various violations.

These measures underscore the commitment of security forces to maintain law and order in Manipur amidst prevailing security concerns.

India to Host 2025 BWF World Junior Championships in Guwahati, Assam


1. India to host World Junior Badminton Championships in 2025, announced by BWF on April 20.
2. Event scheduled at Guwahati’s National Centre of Excellence, marking India’s return as host after 17 years.
3. The significance of India’s hosting is highlighted in BWF’s announcement for the prestigious championship.


Guwahati, April 30: India is gearing up to host the esteemed World Junior Badminton Championships in 2025, a significant announcement made by the Badminton World Federation (BWF) on April 20.

The event is slated to take place at the National Centre of Excellence in Guwahati, marking a remarkable return for India as the host country after a gap of 17 years.

The selection of Guwahati as the venue for the championships underscores India’s burgeoning presence in the global badminton arena. Both the team and individual events will unfold at the Badminton Association of India’s (BAI) National Centre of Excellence, situated in the northeastern part of the country.

BWF President Poul-Erik Høyer lauded India’s rising talent pool, affirming the country’s capability to host such prestigious tournaments.

This announcement holds particular significance for India, as the country last hosted the BWF World Junior Championships in Pune back in 2008.


Also Read: Repolling in Manipur’s Outer LS Seat Records 55.11% Voter Turnout by 1 PM

The decision to entrust Guwahati with this honor reflects the confidence of the BWF in the state-of-the-art facilities provided by the BAI. It is poised to serve as an ideal platform for emerging badminton stars to exhibit their prowess on the international stage.

While the exact dates for the 2025 championships are yet to be finalized, the anticipation is palpable among badminton enthusiasts not only in India but also across the globe. The event promises to be a spectacle of sporting excellence, showcasing the best young talents from around the world.

In a separate development, the BWF disclosed the host city for the next edition of the BWF Thomas & Uber Cup Finals, scheduled for 2026. Following Denmark’s successful organization of the world men’s and women’s team championships in Aarhus in 2021, the prestigious tournament will head to Horsens in 2026.

Renowned for its vibrant cultural scene and entertainment offerings, Horsens is expected to provide a fitting backdrop for this prestigious badminton event.

The confirmation of Horsens as the host city for the BWF Thomas & Uber Cup Finals 2026 was announced during the BWF Council meeting held on April 28.

This decision underscores the ongoing efforts of the BWF to elevate the sport of badminton and expand its global footprint. It is a testament to the enduring popularity and growing stature of badminton as a premier international sport.

Deputy CM: Nagaland to Enforce Ceasefire Ground Rules Stringently


1. The Nagaland government, led by Y Patton, vows action against extortion, and enforces Ceasefire Ground Rules.
2. Widespread protests prompt government response to combat extortion, and illegal taxation in Dimapur.
3. Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton spearheads measures to tackle rampant extortion in Nagaland.


Kohima, April 30: In response to the rampant issue of extortion in Nagaland, the state government, under the leadership of Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton, has announced decisive actions to enforce Ceasefire Ground Rules (CFGR) and combat illegal activities.

The move follows widespread protests and strikes triggered by grievances over extortion, illegal taxation, and harassment faced by the business community in Dimapur.

Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton, also holding the Home portfolio, emphasized the government’s commitment to eradicating unlawful activities. He clarified that extortion would be treated as a serious offense under the National Security Act (NSA), distinct from legitimate taxation.

Patton urged the Dimapur Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI) and the Confederation of Nagaland Chambers of Commerce & Industry (CNCCI) to reconsider their indefinite shutdown, highlighting the inconvenience to the public.

In response to the situation, the state cabinet resolved to urge the Chairman of the Ceasefire Monitoring Group (CFMG)/Ceasefire Supervisory Board (CFSB) to rigorously enforce CFGR.


Also Read: Repolling in Manipur’s Outer LS Seat Records 55.11% Voter Turnout by 1 PM

This includes invoking the NSA against offenders and detaining them outside the state. The Director General of Police (DGP) of Nagaland has initiated action, appealing to the CFMG/CFSB Chairman to ensure compliance and curb unauthorized activities, particularly in Dimapur.

The government reaffirmed its stance against illegal taxation, stating that only statutory bodies or law enforcement agencies could issue summons. The DGP emphasized protecting whistleblowers and encouraged reporting illegal activities through designated channels, ensuring confidentiality.

Addressing concerns about uniformed personnel’s involvement in illegal activities, the DGP emphasized equal application of the law and zero tolerance for misconduct within the department.

These proactive measures, accompanied by promises of infrastructure development and bolstered law enforcement capabilities, demonstrate a concerted effort to restore peace in Nagaland.

As the state confronts extortion and illegal taxation, public cooperation and vigilance are urged to uphold the rule of law.

Citizens are encouraged to report illegal activity through the toll-free number 112, the Nagaland Police app “Made In Nagaland,” or the department’s social media platforms.

- Advertisement -