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


1. Outer Manipur LS repolling: 55.11% turnout by 1 PM, stations report brisk participation despite disruptions.
2. No untoward incidents reported; smooth proceedings credited to stringent security measures.
3. Election authorities confirm smooth operation of repolling in Outer Manipur LS constituency.


Imphal, April 30: Repolling in the Outer Manipur Lok Sabha seat witnessed a voter turnout of 55.11% by 1 PM, with polling stations reporting brisk participation despite the earlier disruptions.

Election authorities confirmed that no untoward incidents had been reported thus far, attributing the smooth proceedings to stringent security measures. Commencing at 7 am, the voting process continued seamlessly amid heightened security arrangements.

The need for repolling arose due to incidents of vandalism where EVMs and VVPATs were damaged before the completion of voting at four polling stations on April 26.

Additionally, EVM malfunctioning and intimidation tactics by unidentified miscreants led to incomplete voting at two other polling stations.


Also Read: Zubeen Garg Arrives in Style: Takes JCB Ride to Bihu Programme in Majuli

As a result, polling at four stations in the Ukhrul assembly segment, and one each in the Chingai assembly seat in Ukhrul and Karong in Senapati, was declared null and void by the Manipur Chief Electoral Officer’s office.

Of the six polling stations involved in the repolling, five are situated in the Ukhrul district, catering to a total of 4,156 voters.

During the initial polling on April 26, approximately 76.06% of the 4.84 lakh eligible voters cast their ballots across 13 of the 28 assembly segments comprising the Outer Manipur Lok Sabha constituency.

The remaining 15 segments, along with the entire Inner Manipur Lok Sabha seat, went to polls in the first phase on April 19.

Zubeen Garg Arrives in Style: Takes JCB Ride to Bihu Programme in Majuli


1. Amidst the vibrant festivities of Assam’s Bihu celebrations, Zubeen Garg, the renowned musician, orchestrated a spectacle of grand proportions in Majuli, the cultural nucleus of Assamese traditions.
2. The ambience was already charged with excitement following a stirring performance by Assam singer Jublee Baruah.
3. Majuli’s concert venue, despite being beset by adverse weather conditions, transformed into a stage of awe and wonder as Garg’s audacious move unfolded.


Guwahati, April 30: Amidst the vibrant festivities of Assam’s Bihu celebrations, Zubeen Garg, the renowned musician, orchestrated a spectacle of grand proportions in Majuli, the cultural nucleus of Assamese traditions.

The ambience was already charged with excitement following a stirring performance by Assam singer Jublee Baruah. However, Garg elevated the energy to unparalleled heights with his dramatic entrance atop a JCB, surprising and delighting the gathered throngs.

Majuli’s concert venue, despite being beset by adverse weather conditions, transformed into a stage of awe and wonder as Garg’s audacious move unfolded.

The persistent rainfall had turned the field into a sea of water and muck, presenting formidable obstacles to the evening’s festivities. Yet, Garg’s fearless display of showmanship and his unwavering commitment to entertain forged an indelible memory for all in attendance.


Also Read: Anantnag Bridge Damaged by Flood, Gulmarg Receives Fresh Snowfall: Updates from Kashmir

Garg’s fusion of tradition and innovation struck a chord with the audience, embodying the very spirit of Assamese culture while infusing it with his trademark creativity and spontaneity.

His presence not only electrified the atmosphere but also reaffirmed his status as Assam’s musical icon, revered by all.

In the midst of the ongoing Bihu revelry that grips the region, Garg’s performance stands as a poignant reminder of the resilience and vibrancy of Assamese culture.

Despite the challenges posed by the weather, his spirited showmanship spread love, joy, and bliss throughout the crowd, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those present.

Anantnag Bridge Damaged by Flood, Gulmarg Receives Fresh Snowfall: Updates from Kashmir


1. Heavy rainfall triggers floods and landslides in Kashmir Valley’s Kupwara and Handwara.
2. Schools shut across the valley as a precautionary measure.
3. Authorities respond to the situation with rescue operations and monitoring of water levels.


Srinagar, April 30: In the past three days, incessant heavy rainfall has battered the plains of the Kashmir Valley, leading to landslides and flooding in several low-lying villages in Kupwara and Handwara. The situation has prompted authorities to close schools across the valley on Tuesday.

Snowfall in Upper Reaches

Conversely, the upper reaches of the valley, including Gulmarg and the Mughal Road, experienced fresh snowfall, bringing back the wintry weather to the region. This contrast in weather conditions has created significant challenges for residents and authorities alike.

Weather Forecast and Predictions

The regional Meteorological Department had previously warned of continued wet weather across Jammu and Kashmir until Tuesday evening.

However, they anticipate an improvement in conditions from Tuesday evening onwards, with generally dry weather expected from May 1 to May 5. Despite this forecast, vigilance remains crucial as water levels continue to rise in major rivers and streams.


Also Read: Amit Shah accuses Congress of appeasement, and claims injustice to backward classes with Muslim reservation

Flood Alert and Rescue Operations

The torrential rainfall has caused the Jhelum river to surpass the flood declaration level in Srinagar, while other water bodies, including the Pohru Nallah in Kupwara district, are nearing the danger mark. To address the escalating situation, the local administration has activated control rooms to monitor water levels and coordinate rescue efforts.

Damage and Precautionary Measures

Areas in Handwara and Kupwara towns are grappling with waterlogging issues, prompting the deployment of local police, Army, CRPF, and the SDRF for rescue operations. Additionally, a flash flood in Anantnag’s Qazigund area has resulted in partial damage to the Nawa Bonigam Bridge, further exacerbating the challenges faced by residents.

Closure of Schools and Postponement of Examinations

As a precautionary measure, the Directorate of School Education, Kashmir, has announced the closure of all schools in the valley on Tuesday.

Furthermore, the University of Kashmir has postponed all scheduled examinations for the day, prioritizing the safety of students and staff members.

Snowfall in Hilly Areas and Tourist Attractions

In contrast to the rainfall in the plains, areas along the Line of Control and hilly regions such as the Drass Valley in Kargil and Gurez in Bandipora have reported significant snowfall.

Despite the adverse weather conditions, tourists have been drawn to the picturesque skiing destination of Gulmarg following the fresh snowfall, highlighting the resilience and enduring allure of Kashmir’s natural beauty.

Amit Shah accuses Congress of appeasement, claims injustice to backward classes with Muslim reservation


1. Amit Shah accuses Congress of promoting religious reservations, sparking social discord.
2. BJP vehemently opposes the Congress stance on religious reservations, advocating against it.
3. Shah emphasizes the need to avoid religious-based policies, urging unity and inclusivity instead.


New Delhi, April 30: Union Home Minister Amit Shah aimed at the Congress, accusing them of fostering confusion and social discord by advocating for religious reservations, a stance vehemently opposed by the BJP.

Speaking at a press conference in Guwahati, Shah asserted, “Congress is sowing seeds of religious discord by pushing for religious reservations. Their attempt to reclassify Muslims into the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category is particularly troubling.”

Meanwhile, the BJP and its allies continue to make significant gains in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, steadily approaching and even surpassing the 100-seat milestone.

Notably, their appeal appears to be spreading into the southern regions of the country, a trend observed in previous electoral patterns. With confidence in their upward trajectory, BJP leaders express optimism about the possibility of crossing the 400-seat threshold.

Despite this positive outlook, Shah caution’s against what they perceive as concerted efforts by the Congress to undermine their electoral achievements. They characterize these efforts as a deliberate strategy aimed at distorting the BJP’s electoral success and urge vigilance against such tactics.

Highlighting their track record of governance, Shah emphasized their decade-long tenure marked by majority victories and significant legislative reforms, particularly in overturning antiquated laws dating back to the British colonial era.

Despite accusations from the Congress of spreading misinformation, the BJP reassures the public that constitutional provisions safeguarding the rights of Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC) will remain steadfast and intact. Moreover, they adamantly assert their commitment to preserving reservations for these marginalized communities.


Also Read: AstraZeneca Reverses Stance, Acknowledges Covishield’s Potential Rare Side Effect

Amit Shah while slamming the Congress party said that the party is stooping low by making deep fake videos and spreading rumours among the people. He urged people to listen to the truth instead of believing in fake videos.

Shah added further that the government will implement UCC across the country bring a uniform law for all and end Congress’s appeasement tactics.

AstraZeneca Reverses Stance, Acknowledges Covishield’s Potential Rare Side Effect


1. AstraZeneca admits Covishield may cause rare blood clotting side effects.
2. Covishield’s rare side effect disclosed by AstraZeneca.
3. Court documents reveal AstraZeneca’s acknowledgment of Covishield’s rare side effect.


New Delhi, April 30: British pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca has acknowledged that its Covid vaccine, Covishield, can lead to a rare side effect, as reported by The Telegraph (UK).

The company disclosed that in rare instances, the vaccine can trigger a condition characterized by blood clots and low platelet count, according to court documents.

Covishield, a product of collaboration between AstraZeneca and Oxford University during the pandemic, was manufactured by the Serum Institute of India and extensively administered across the country.

AstraZeneca is currently embroiled in a class action lawsuit in the UK, where plaintiffs in 51 cases before the UK High Court are seeking damages amounting to 100 million pounds.


Also Read: 27 Government Employees in Tripura Suspended for MCC Violation; CEO Calls for Departmental Disciplinary Action

The lawsuit alleges that the vaccine led to deaths and severe injuries in multiple instances.

The first complainant in the case, Jamie Scott, claimed that he received the vaccine in April 2021, resulting in a permanent brain injury due to a blood clot.

He stated that the injury has rendered him unable to work, and the hospital even conveyed to his wife on three occasions that he was unlikely to survive.

While AstraZeneca has refuted the allegations, it conceded in court documents in February that Covishield can cause Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS) in very rare cases. TTS manifests as blood clots and low platelet count in affected individuals.

The company stated in its legal defence to Scott’s claim that “it is admitted that the AZ vaccine can, in very rare cases, cause TTS. The causal mechanism is not known… Further, TTS can also occur in the absence of the AZ vaccine (or any vaccine). Causation in any individual case will be a matter for expert evidence.”

AstraZeneca’s acknowledgement in the legal proceedings may potentially result in compensation payouts to the victims and their families.

27 Government Employees in Tripura Suspended for MCC Violation; CEO Calls for Departmental Disciplinary Action


1. 27 government employees across Tripura departments suspended post Lok Sabha elections.
2. Suspension follows reported violations of the election model code and negligence in election-related duties.
3. Chief Electoral Officer urges departmental disciplinary action against suspended employees.


Agartala, April 30: Following the conclusion of the Lok Sabha elections in Tripura, a significant development has occurred with the suspension of 27 government employees from various state departments.

This action was prompted by reported violations of the election model code of conduct and instances of negligence in election-related tasks, as confirmed by the office of the Chief Electoral Officer Tripura.

In response to these infractions, the Chief Electoral Officer, Puneet Agarwal, issued a letter to the higher authorities of the respective departments, emphasizing the importance of initiating departmental disciplinary action against the suspended employees.


Also Read: CBI Probe Reveals Details of Manipur Women’s Ordeal: Seeking Refuge in Police Gypsy

The letter highlighted the critical need to uphold electoral integrity and ensure strict adherence to prescribed protocols throughout the electoral process.

Furthermore, the Chief Electoral Officer specified that any department seeking to revoke the temporary suspension of its employees must obtain consent from the Election Commission of India. This process requires active engagement through the office of the Chief Election Officer of the state.

The suspension of these government employees underscores the seriousness with which electoral authorities approach any violations of the model code of conduct.

It serves as a reminder to all stakeholders, including government officials and employees, of their responsibility to uphold the integrity and fairness of the electoral process.

The decision to suspend these employees reflects a commitment to accountability and transparency in electoral administration.

It sends a clear message that any breaches of the code of conduct will be met with swift and decisive action to maintain the sanctity of the democratic process.

The Chief Electoral Officer’s directive for departmental disciplinary action reinforces the principle of accountability within government institutions.

It ensures that those responsible for misconduct or negligence are held to account and that corrective measures are implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Moreover, the requirement for approval from the Election Commission of India (ECI) for revoking the suspension emphasizes the importance of due process and oversight in such matters.

It ensures that decisions regarding disciplinary actions are made by established procedures and guidelines.

The suspension of 27 government employees in Tripura serves as a testament to the commitment of electoral authorities to uphold the principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability in the conduct of elections.

It underscores the importance of adherence to the model code of conduct and the enforcement of disciplinary measures to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.

CBI Probe Reveals Details of Manipur Women’s Ordeal: Seeking Refuge in Police Gypsy


1. CBI Chargesheet Reveals Shocking Details of Manipur Women’s Ordeal.
2. New Revelations Emerge in Manipur Women Stripping Case.
3. CBI Probe Exposes Horrific Ordeal of Manipur Women.


Imphal, April 30: Nearly a year following the appalling event of stripping and parading two women in Manipur’s Churachandpur, new revelations have surfaced. A Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) chargesheet submitted recently shed light on the horrific ordeal endured by the victims.

Seeking Refuge in Vain

Just moments before the mob subjected two women from the Kuki-Zomi community to humiliation and sexual assault, they sought refuge inside a police Gypsy parked nearby.

However, the police driver, upon their plea to start the vehicle, callously claimed there was “no key”. Tragically, the presence of two other male victims inside the Gypsy did little to deter the impending violence.

Abandoned by Authorities

As the mob intensified, the policemen on the scene inexplicably vacated the area, abandoning the victims to their fate. Left defenseless, the victims were forcibly removed from the vehicle by the enraged mob, setting the stage for a harrowing ordeal.


Also Read: BJP Candidate Rekha Patra from Sandeshkhali Receives Security Protection

Inaction Amidst Horror

The CBI investigation unearthed the grim reality of the May incident in Churachandpur. Despite the presence of Manipur Police at the scene, the victims received no assistance. The shocking video footage captured the women stripped naked and paraded by the mob while the police purportedly stood idly by.

One survivor recounted, “Manipur’s Police were present there, but they didn’t help us.” Another survivor lamented the inaction of the policemen, revealing that they simply observed the violence unfold without intervention. Tragically, two family members of the women fell victim to the mob’s brutality.

Unraveling the Aftermath

The aftermath of the incident exposed the deeply entrenched ethnic strife in Manipur. A series of retaliatory attacks ensued between the Meitei and Kuki communities, resulting in loss of lives and widespread destruction.

Investigations revealed deliberate acts of arson and violence perpetrated by the Meitei mob, targeting villages and places of worship belonging to the Kuki community.

CBI’s Insights

According to the CBI chargesheet, fear-stricken victims sought refuge in the forest to escape the wrath of the mob. However, the perpetrators tracked them down, unleashing terror upon the hapless victims.

The chargesheet detailed the horrifying sequence of events, including the victims’ desperate plea for help from policemen stationed nearby. Despite their pleas, the police allegedly turned a blind eye to their plight, refusing to intervene and leaving the victims at the mercy of the raging mob.

In summary, the CBI’s investigation into the Manipur incident unveils a distressing tale of violence, ethnic tensions, and systemic failure.

The tragedy underscores the urgent need for accountability, justice, and measures to address the root causes of communal strife in the region.

BJP Candidate Rekha Patra from Sandeshkhali Receives Security Protection


1. MHA grants ‘X-category’ security to Rekha Patra amid her candidacy in Basirhat Lok Sabha.
2. Patra gained prominence through protests against suspended Trinamool leader Sheikh Shahjahan.
3. The move comes amidst heightened security concerns in West Bengal’s Sandeshkhali.


Kolkata, April 30: The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has granted ‘X-category’ security protection to Rekha Patra, a prominent figure in the protests against suspended Trinamool Congress leader Sheikh Shahjahan in West Bengal’s Sandeshkhali.

Patra is now contesting as the BJP candidate for the Basirhat Lok Sabha seat.

The decision comes ahead of the voting scheduled for June 1, the final phase of the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

Patra is set to face Trinamool Congress’s Haji Nurul Islam, who was nominated after the withdrawal of current MP and Bengali actor Nusrat Jahan’s candidacy.

Commandos from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) will provide security for Patra, given the sensitive nature of her candidacy and the potential risks involved.


Also Read: Shillong Traffic Police Collects Rs 6.78 Lakh in Fines from 684 Violations in 6 Days

The MHA’s decision to provide ‘X-category’ security follows an Intelligence Bureau (IB) report indicating potential threats to Patra’s safety. Additionally, five other BJP leaders have also been granted security cover by the MHA.

Pranat Tudu, the party’s candidate from Jhargram, along with Nirmal Saha from Bahrampur, Ashok Kandari from Jaynagar, and Ashok Purkait from Mathurapur, have received ‘X-category’ security protection.

Meanwhile, Karthik Paul, the BJP candidate from Raiganj, has been provided with ‘Y-category’ security cover.

The move reflects the escalating security concerns surrounding BJP candidates in West Bengal, especially since the announcement of the Lok Sabha elections.

In recent weeks, the MHA has extended security protection to over two dozen BJP leaders in the state.

Currently, more than 100 BJP leaders across West Bengal benefit from security provided by CISF commandos under the central government’s supervision.

Shillong Traffic Police Collects Rs 6.78 Lakh in Fines from 684 Violations in 6 Days


1. Shillong Traffic Police conducted a week-long scrutiny from April 22 to 28, issuing fines totaling Rs 6.78 lakh.
2. Led by East Khasi Hills SP Rituraj Ravi, the crackdown targeted violations like DUI and illegal vehicle modifications.
3. The initiative aimed to bolster road safety by deterring traffic violations and promoting responsible driving.


Shillong, April 30: In a concerted effort to bolster road safety, Shillong Traffic Police conducted a rigorous week-long scrutiny from April 22 to 28, resulting in fines amounting to Rs 6.78 lakh for 684 violations.

Led by East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Rituraj Ravi, the crackdown targeted various infractions, ranging from driving under the influence to illegal vehicle modifications.

During the specified period, a total of 684 violations were identified, with offenses including driving under the influence of alcohol and illegal modifications to exhaust pipes.

The fines collected amounted to Rs. 6,78,000, highlighting the scale of the infractions and the importance of stringent enforcement of traffic laws.

SP Rituraj Ravi emphasized the significance of responsible driving and adherence to traffic regulations, urging citizens to exercise caution while on the roads.


Also Read: Manipur Congress Calls for Enhanced Security Measures During Re-poll in 6 Polling Stations

He reiterated that such special drives would be conducted regularly in addition to routine checks to ensure road safety remains a top priority.

The Shillong Traffic Police underscored their commitment to continued special enforcement operations aimed at maintaining road safety standards.

Through a combination of special drives and routine checks, they aim to create a safer environment for all road users and deter traffic violations.

Manipur Congress Calls for Enhanced Security Measures During Re-poll in 6 Polling Stations


1. Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) stresses robust security for upcoming re-polling in six Manipur stations.
2. Meghachandra cites past electoral malpractice and urges fair process.
3. Calls for authorities to ensure peace and integrity in the electoral process.


Imphal, April 29: Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) emphasized the importance of robust security measures during the upcoming re-polling in six polling stations, urging authorities to ensure a fair and peaceful electoral process.

Speaking at a press conference held at Congress Bhawan, MPCC President Keisham Meghachandra highlighted concerns over the integrity of the electoral process in Manipur, citing past instances of electoral malpractice and voter suppression.

Meghachandra expressed apprehensions about potential incidents of booth rigging and violence during the re-polling scheduled for April 30 in six polling stations. He emphasized the need for preventive measures to safeguard voters’ rights and maintain the sanctity of the democratic process.

In a letter addressed to the Chief Electoral Officer, MPCC outlined the six polling stations slated for re-polling: Shangshak-A, Ukhrul (A), Ukhrul (D-1), Ukhrul (F) in Ukhrul (ST) constituency, Chingai in Chingai (ST) constituency, and Oinam (A1) in Karong (ST) constituency.


Also Read: Assam Police Detain Suspect Connected to False Amit Shah Video

These stations were identified as hyper-sensitive and vulnerable areas, raising concerns about potential disruptions by anti-social elements.

To mitigate risks and ensure a smooth electoral process, MPCC urged the deployment of an adequate number of Central Para Military Forces (CPMF) and the presence of Executive Magistrates at each polling station.

Additionally, the installation of CCTV cameras and video coverage were deemed essential for monitoring and recording activities to maintain transparency and accountability.

The letter underscored the importance of proactive measures to uphold the integrity of the electoral process and enable voters to exercise their franchise freely and safely.

MPCC called upon the authorities to take swift action in implementing the recommended security measures to uphold the democratic principles of fairness and transparency.

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