Biennial polls to 37 Rajya Sabha seats on March 16
Seats are falling vacant from Maharashtra, Odisha, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Assam, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Bihar
Bhupen Borah meets Assam CM after Congress exit, likely to join BJP
Former Assam Congress president Bhupen Borah met Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday, a day after resigning from the Congress party. Sarma indicated that Borah is expected to soon join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), fueling political speculation ahead of the upcoming polls
BJP Plans Major Shake-Up In Assam, May Replace 30 MLAs Ahead Of Assembly Polls
The leadership has made it clear that performance and public perception will be key criteria in deciding nominations
4 States, 4 Elections, 4 Potential Crises For Congress Hoping For Poll Wins
Four states - Assam, Bengal, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu - are scheduled to hold elections in April/May, handing the Congress four opportunities to begin 2026 on a winning note, but only if it stays united, internally and with its allies.
Who Is Rakibul Hussain? Assam Congress MP At Centre Of Storm After Bhupen Borahs Exit
Rakibul Hussain previously served as an MLA from Samaguri in Nagaon district for 23 years, from 2001 to 2024.
Who Is Congress' Rakibul Hussain, Reason Behind Bhupen Borah's Resignation
Bhupen Borah alleged that Rakibul Hussain holds the reins of Congress in Assam.
EC Eyes April for Elections in Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry
Last time, Assembly polls in West Bengal were held in eight phases. In Assam, elections were held in two phases, and in a single phase in Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry.
'Support Of 58 MLAs, Sonia Gandhi Asked Me To Fix Oath Date': CM Himanta Recalls Congress Days
Sharing what he called his days of distress, Assam CM Himanta Sarma said the scenario changed after Rahul Gandhi made phone calls to party leaders from the United States
At meeting with Election Commission, Assam parties seek 1 or 2-phase assembly polls
The Election Commission of India's full bench visited Assam to assess assembly poll preparedness. Political parties suggested single or two-phase elections, considering the Bihu festival. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma advocated for elections before Bohag Bihu due to potential flooding and resource deployment challenges.
Former Assam Congress chief Bhupen Kumar Borah to join BJP on February 22
The announcement by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma ends speculation about which way Borah will go
Poll-bound Assam approves 3% quota for tea tribes in Class I and II jobs
The Cabinet decision before the Budget presentation is significant, as the community accounts for almost 20% of the voters in the State; the construction of a second Sainik School at Langvoku in Karbi Anglong district has also been approved
Former Assam Congress chief Bhupen Borah to join BJP on Feb 22: CM Himanta Biswa Sarma
Former Assam Congress president will join BJP on Feb 22: Himanta
Guwahati: Former Assam Congress president Bhupen Borah will join the BJP on February 22, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Tuesday after meeting him. Sarma visited Borahs residence in the Ghoramara area of Guwahati, a day after the senior leader resigned from the Congress. The CM was welcomed by Borahs wife and son with Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
I am always within constitutional limits: CM Himanta on viral video row
Mirzapur: Amid the row over a viral video purportedly showing him taking aim and firing with a rifle at members of a particular community, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has claimed that he always makes statements within constitutional limits, and thats why he has nothing to fear. Asked about the Supreme Court on Monday Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Himanta Biswa Sarma says Bhupen Borah to join BJP in major blow to Congress
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that senior Congress leader Bhupen Kumar Borah will join the BJP on February 22. Borah, who recently resigned from the Congress, stated he is studying proposals from various parties and will contest the upcoming Assembly elections. He cited 'mental torture' within the Congress leadership as a reason for his departure.
'Bhupen Borah to join BJP': Assam CM after meeting disgruntled Congress leader
SSC GD Constable 2026 CBT exam postponed for 25487 posts; fresh dates for CAPFs soon
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has postponed the SSC GD Constable 2026 Computer Based Examination scheduled from 23 February 2026 onwards for 25,487 vacancies in CAPFs, SSF and Assam Rifles. Fresh exam dates will be announced soon. The Commission clarified that slot selection will not apply, city intimation will be released 810 days before the exam, and admit cards will be issued 23 days prior.
Silver, gold prices decline up to 2 pc on muted demand, weak global cues
New Delhi, Feb 17 (PTI) Precious metal prices declined 2 per cent in the national capital on Tuesday, with silver slipping to Rs 2.45 lakh per kilogram and gold dropping to Rs 1.57 lakh per 10 grams due to subdued demand amid weak global cues. According to the All India Sarafa Association, the price of white metal decreased Rs 5,000, or 2 per cent, to Rs 2,45,000 per kilogram (inclusive of all taxes) from Mondays closing level of Rs 2,50,000 per kg. In the bullion market, gold of 99.9 per cent purity depreciated Rs 2,200, or 1.4 per cent, to
APSC CCE result 2026 cancelled: Check complete details here
The Assam Public Service Commission has withdrawn the CCE 2024 result with immediate effect after detecting an error in the notified outcome issued on February 16, 2026. The Commission has promised a revised select list following review but has not specified a date. Candidates are advised to monitor the official website for updates and download instructions.
Rahul Gandhi vetoed Sonia offer to make me CM in 2014: Himanta Biswa Sarma
Then Congress president had asked him to decide on a date for his swearing-in after 58 party MLAs supported him two years before the Assembly election, Assam CM and former Congress leader says
FIR registered over objectionable social media post by Assam BJP
Mamata terms EC Tughlaqi Commission, alleges voter manipulation in Bengal
Kolkata, Feb 18 (PTI) West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday described the Election Commission as a Tughlaqi Commission run by a political party, alleging widespread manipulation of voters lists in the state. By using the word Tughlaqi, Banerjee was alluding to the Delhi sultan Muhammad bin Tughlaq who was known for whimsical decisions. Speaking to reporters at the state secretariat, she said, A woman functionary in the BJP IT cell removed 58 lakh voters names in Bengal using AI. The EC is defying Supreme Court orders, targeting voters, and undermining democracy. On voter deletions, she alleged that, on
Assam tables Rs 62,295 cr interim Budget, seeks Vote on Account ahead of polls
Assam's interim budget of Rs 62,294.78 crore was tabled ahead of assembly polls. The state's fiscal performance has improved, leading to increased central devolution. Significant progress in peace accords with militant groups and a special rehabilitation package for ULFA were highlighted. The government also emphasized job creation, infrastructure development, and enhanced air connectivity.
194 Bangladeshi nationals deported from Meghalaya since 2021
Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong outlines multi-layered mechanismincluding 18 check posts, entry gates, and a land customs station along vulnerable stretches of the States border with Assam and Bangladeshto check infiltration.
Ex Assam Congress chief Bhupen Borah to contest, not for INC
Bhupen Kumar Borah, a senior Assam Congress leader, has resigned from his post. He has indicated he will contest the upcoming assembly elections independently. Borah stated he has not withdrawn his resignation and is considering proposals from various parties. He plans to announce his decision soon. Borah expressed dissatisfaction with the party leadership, citing mental torture for many leaders.
This Assam-built tourism startup is rethinking how the Northeast is discovered
As tourism in the Northeast evolves, discovery remains its biggest challenge. With support from Assams startup ecosystem, FinderBridge Tourism is building a smarter way to explore the region.
Building a handloom enterprise from Assam, with livelihoods at the core
AVA Creations is re-imagining Assams handloom legacy as a tool for livelihood security and forest conservation. Working with hundreds of women across the Northeast, it shows how heritage can become a sustainable economic engine.
Hardeep Puri had 62 email exchanges & 14 meetings with Epstein, must clarify: Congress
New Delhi, Feb 17 (PTI) The Congress on Tuesday accused Union minister Hardeep Puri of lying on the Epstein files issue, and asked the BJP leader to come clean on the 62 email exchanges and 14 meetings he had with convicted American sex offender Jeffrey Epstein between 2014 and 2017. The opposition party also reiterated its demand that Puri must resign immediately. Puri has, however, denied all the charges levelled at him by the opposition party. Between 2014 and 2017, there were 62 email exchanges between Hardeep Puri and Epstein. Apart from that, what was discussed in the meetings on
Assam environmental activist flags rat-hole coal mining along Arunachal border
In a memorandum to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, he suggested upgrading five reserved forests in the coal belt to wildlife sanctuaries.
NEW DELHI, Feb 17 (Reuters) Indian cricket greats Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev joined a dozen other former international captains on Tuesday in demanding better prison treatment for one of the finest all-rounders of the game Imran Khan, Pakistans former prime minister. Cricketer-turned-politician Khan, 73, has been in jail since August 2023, convicted in a string of cases that he says were politically driven following his ouster in a 2022 parliamentary vote. Khans lawyer told Pakistans Supreme Court last week that the ex-cricketer had lost a significant amount of vision in his right eye while in custody. A medical
Assam Government tables interim Budget for 2026-27; flagship schemes to continue
Tabling her last Budget before the State goes to polls, Ajanta Neog said Assam is, at present, the fastest-growing State in India as per the RBI data
Assam govt tables Rs 62,294 crore interim budget for FY'27, flagship schemes to continue
Assam's financial strategy for 2026-27 showcases a robust budget of Rs 62,294.78 crore, emphasising direct cash assistance through initiatives like Nijut Moina and Orunodoi. Buoyed by a surge in economic prosperity, the state reports a remarkable increase in per capita income.
Polls Schedule Announcement for 4 States, 1 UT Likely in Mid-March; Polls in April: Sources
While the five-year term of Puducherry ends on June 15, the terms of Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal end on May 20, 23, 10 and seven respectively.
Assam approves 3% reservation for tea tribes, Adivasis in Grade 1 and 2 govt jobs
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma had announced a 3 per cent reservation for youths from tea gardens in Grade I and Grade II government jobs in October last year during the 19th biennial general conference of the Assam Tea Tribe Students Association (ATTSA) and the central biennial general conference of the Assam Tea Tribe Womens Association.
Opinion: Opinion | 'Team Rahul' And 'Team Priyanka': Inside Congress' Plans For Kerala And Assam
They don't function at cross purposes or differ on key ideological issues. However, in practice, they are often seen following slightly different 'chaal, chalan, chehra', as they say, from each other.
BJP's Jibes And The Congress' Bhupen Borah See-Saw In Assam
Fractures in the Congress' Assam unit - unwelcome with an election weeks away - made headlines Monday after senior leader Bhupen Borah, an influential two-time MLA and former state chief, stormed out of a party he has represented for 32 years.
At meetings with EC, parties seek one or two-phase assembly polls in Assam
Assam's political parties, including national and state outfits, met with the Election Commission and requested assembly polls be held in one or two phases. They also urged the EC to consider the Bihu festival when scheduling the election dates. The parties generally praised the special revision of electoral rolls and offered suggestions for peaceful elections.
Assam tables Rs 62,294.78 cr interim budget for FY'27
Assam's Finance Minister Ajanta Neog unveiled an interim budget exceeding Rs 62,000 crore for the coming financial year ahead of the assembly elections due in a couple of months. Neog said the state is poised to become a Rs 10 lakh crore economy by 2028.
Bill Gates not to attend AI Impact Summit, say govt sources
New Delhi, Feb 17 (PTI) Microsoft Co-Founder Bill Gates will not be attending AI Impact Summit, government sources said. Gates featured among the tech moguls, industry leaders, policymakers, founders, and technologists listed as speakers on the official website of the India Impact Summit, happening in the national capital from February 16-20. But the summit website on Tuesday did not show his name. Government sources said Gates will not be attending the Summit. The move, they say, is linked to Gates being named in new files relating to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. While Gates has not been accused of
India eyes $200B in data center investments as it ramps up its AI hub ambitions
NEW DELHI February 17, 2026 (AP) India is hoping to garner as much as $200 billion in investments for data centers over the next few years as it scales up its ambitions to become a hub for artificial intelligence, the countrys minister for electronics and information technology said Tuesday. The investments underscore the reliance of tech titans on India as a key technology and talent base in the global race for AI dominance. For New Delhi, they bring in high-value infrastructure and foreign capital at a scale that can accelerate its digital transformation ambitions. The push comes as governments
Is a stiff rib cage causing your back pain?
(CNN) If you have recurring back pain, youve probably tried strengthening your core, loosening your hips and stretching your back. Those strategies can help, but they dont always provide a complete solution. When pain lingers or flares up during everyday movements, its often a sign that a critical area is being overlooked: your rib cage. Because all 12 vertebrae of your thoracic spine (middle segment) connect to your rib cage, rib mobility plays a central role in how your spine moves and how forces are managed through your back. When rib motion is limited, upper-body and mid-back movement are
World's first bamboo ethanol plant in Assam aims to bring 30,000 farmers in sourcing net
Numaligarh's pioneering bioethanol plant is on the brink of an exciting partnership with over 30,000 farmers in the coming three years. By leveraging bamboo, the plant will operate as the world's second-ever facility to produce bioethanol from this eco-friendly resource.
Rupee rises 1 paisa to 90.73 against US dollar in early trade
Mumbai, Feb 17 (PTI) The rupee rose by 1 paisa to 90.73 against the US dollar in early trade on Tuesday, aided by a fall in global crude oil prices. However, a stronger greenback and FII outflows capped gains in the local unit, according to forex traders. At the interbank foreign exchange, the rupee opened at 90.72 against the US dollar before slipping to 90.73, up 1 paisa against its previous close. The rupee settled 8 paise lower at 90.74 against the US dollar on Monday. The rupee was well offered on Monday though it closed lower. Suspected RBI intervention
Meerut Metro to become Indias fastest, to run at 120 kmph
New Delhi, Feb 16 (PTI) The upcoming Meerut Metro is set to become the fastest metro service in the country, with a maximum operational speed of 120 kmph, significantly cutting travel time across the city, an official said on Monday. The service will operate on a 21 km corridor between Meerut South and Modipuram with 12 stations, covering the entire stretch in around 30 minutes, including stoppages at all stations, he said. In a first-of-its-kind initiative in India, the Meerut Metro will run on the same tracks and infrastructure as the semi-high-speed Namo Bharat trains, creating an integrated transport model
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma invited former Congress chief Bhupen Borah to join BJP after his resignation. Sarma lauded Borah as a last Hindu leader in Congress, highlighting internal party issues. While Congress leaders claim Borah reconsidered, he seeks time to decide. Opposition leaders vowed to prevent him from joining BJP.
Bhopal News: Count Animals Like Porcupines In State, Says Chief Minister Mohan Yadav
Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Chief minister Mohan Yadav has stressed on importance of counting animals like porcupines in Madhya Pradesh. Highlighting the growing population of wild animals, particularly tigers, he underlined the need to create an atmosphere of co-existence between humans and wildlife. He made these remarks while chairing a meeting of Wildlife Board at Mantralaya on Monday. In view of the increasing elephant population, especially in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, he laid stress on developing elephant tourism. Referring to the successful operation to capture a Blackbuck in Shajapur, he said similar operations could be considered in other parts of the state. MP News: Month After Womans Death, 2 Arrested For Rape & Murder In Jabalpur The CM also spoke on coordination between the Forest Department and the Archaeological Department to protect monuments located inside forests. He called for the expansion of Anubhuti programme to include more school students and encouraged universities and institutes to support studies on forests and wildlife. To reduce fatalities from snake bites, he proposed that at least two people in every village panchayat be trained in snake catching and first aid. Awareness campaigns on snake safety should also be undertaken. Discussing the translocation of wild animals, he announced that 50 wild buffaloes will be brought from Assam in three phases, along with a pair of rhinos and a king cobra. In exchange, the state will provide Assam with tigers, crocodiles, and bison. He said that cheetah numbers rose to 35. With the help of the State Tiger Force and Wild Life Crime Control Bureau, New Delhi, international smuggler Yangchen was captured from North Sikkim. The meeting also approved expansion in buffer areas of Sanjay Tiger Reserve (Sidhi) and Bagdara Sanctuary.
Move HC on Assam CM's 'hate speech': SC
Assamese Film 'Adi Shakti' Wins Big at Global Cine Confluence 2026
The film's strong narrative and socially relevant theme resonated with audiences and juries alike, drawing national and international attention to Assamese storytelling.
Assam Cong neta 'quits'; Gandhis as well as Himanta try to woo him
Assam Congress faces internal turmoil as campaign chief Bhupen Borah resigns, citing neglect. Party leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, are scrambling to pacify him ahead of Priyanka Gandhi's visit. CM Himanta Sarma hinted at a BJP welcome for Borah, a former MLA, as seat-sharing talks remain stalled.
Jolt for Assam Congress ahead of Assembly polls
Guwahati: The Congress in Assam received a rude jolt on Monday, as former state unit chief Bhupen Borah resigned ahead of the Assembly polls in the state, but later sought time to reconsider his decision after the high command rejected it. Besides, three-time sitting MLA Abdur Rashid Mandal also left the Congress and joined another []
'Bhupen Borah Is Our Asset, I Apologise If Any Wrong Was Done': Gaurav Gogoi
Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi on Monday praised Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) chief Bhupen Kumar Borah, calling him a strong Congress leader and an asset to the party amid ongoing internal discussions within the state unit.
CJI slams trend of moving SC directly, bypassing high courts
The Supreme Court has strongly criticized the trend of using the apex court for political purposes during elections. Chief Justice of India Surya Kant urged leaders and parties to show restraint and adhere to constitutional morality. The court refused to hear petitions against Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, directing them to the Gauhati High Court.
Congress moves to placate Assam's Borah as he quits
Bhupen Borah, former Assam Congress chief, resigned from the party. Senior Congress leaders visited him. Bhanwar Jitendra Singh, Congress in-charge, stated Borah's resignation would not be accepted. Borah has sought time to rethink his decision. He has been associated with the Congress for 32 years. He cited self-respect as the reason for his resignation.
Zubeen Garg Case: Court Reserves Order On Siddharth Sarma's Flat, Singapore Files
Guwahati: The Kamrup (Metro) District and Sessions Court on Monday heard detailed arguments in multiple petitions linked to the case surrounding the death of Assams cultural icon Zubeen Garg, before reserving its order. The hearing, which stretched for nearly two-and-a-half hours across two sessions, revolved around crucial issues including the seizure of properties linked to one of the key accused, Siddharth Sarma, and a plea to bring documents from Singapore into the trial record. One of the central matters was a petition seeking to remove a luxury apartment, co-owned by Sarmas mother, from the list of seized properties. The defence argued that attaching the flat would violate the rights of the co-owner and therefore could not be legally sustained. Special Public Prosecutor Ziaul Kamar, however, questioned the financial trail behind the purchase. He told reporters that the accused, a salaried employee earning around 50,000 per month, had taken a 20-year loan for the flat but allegedly repaid it within just six years. The financial capacity does not match the transaction, Kamar argued in court, raising suspicion that the funds may have been linked to alleged embezzlement connected to the case. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has also moved the court seeking seizure of Sarmas residence. In response, Sarma filed a counter-petition concerning both his flat and his business venture, Mahavir Aqua, a packaged drinking water plant that was earlier sealed during the investigation. In a separate application, the defence requested that documents and reports submitted before the Singapore Coroners Court in earlier proceedings be produced before the trial court in Assam. They sought soft copies of all related documents, arguing that placing them on record was essential to ensure a fair trial. The prosecution opposed the move, stating that the Singapore Coroners report falls under that countrys jurisdiction and has no direct relevance to the criminal case registered by Assam Police. Kamar urged the court to dismiss the plea. During arguments, the prosecution also alleged a deep-rooted conspiracy, claiming that the plot to murder Zubeen Garg was allegedly planned in Assam and executed in Singapore. The defence strongly contested these claims. After hearing both sides, the court directed that soft copies of relevant case documents be provided to the defence and reserved its orders on the pending petitions. March 2 has been fixed as the next date of hearing, when rulings on several applications are expected. Outside the courtroom, emotions ran high. Zubeen Gargs wife, Garima Saikia Garg, expressed frustration over what she described as repeated delays and objections by the defence. The hearing, scheduled for 10:30 am, began around noon after the defence sought additional time. Resolved Through Dialogue: Former Assam Congress Chief Bhupen Borah Withdraws Resignation After High-Level Talks Also Watch: Nearly six months have passed since the incident, she pointed out, reiterating her demand for a special fast-track court to ensure daily hearings and timely justice. Gargs sister, Palmee Borthakur, also voiced concern over the pace of the proceedings. Meanwhile, a public interest litigation filed by an associate of Sarma is slated to come up before the Gauhati High Court on February 25, seeking the reopening of the sealed Mahavir Aqua plant. The petition is said to be connected to the broader investigation. As legal battles intensify over property, jurisdiction and documents across borders, the case continues to draw public attention, with many in Assam closely watching the path to justice in a matter involving one of the states most celebrated cultural figures.
Isnt checking infiltration your job, Assam party asks Amit Shah
The Barak Democratic Front has requested the Home Minister to publish a White Paper on the number of illegal infiltrators detected and expelled during the last 10 years of the BJP rule
ECI team arrives in Assam to review poll preparedness in Assam
A delegation from the Election Commission of India has arrived in Guwahati. They will meet with political parties and officials. Discussions will focus on the upcoming Assembly elections in Assam. The visit is scheduled for three days. The delegation will also meet with law enforcement and civil administration representatives. They will address the media before departing.
68 JEE Main 2026 Candidates Barred As NTA Cancels Results For Unfair Means
JEE Main 2026: The National Testing Agency (NTA) has withheld the JEE Main 2026 results of 68 candidates who were found indulging in Unfair Means (UFM) practices. The announcement was made alongside the declaration of the JEE Main 2026 Session 1 results on the official websites, nta.ac.in and jeemain.nta.nic.in. These 68 candidates will not have their scorecards available for download, as per the agencys guidelines. The NTA had clearly stated in its official brochure that any candidate involved in UFMincluding appearing from a center other than allotted, allowing someone else to write the exam, or attempting multiple sessionswould have their candidature cancelled. No plea or request for reconsideration will be entertained. JEE Main 2026 Paper 1: Exam Details The JEE Main 2026 Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech.) was held in 326 cities at 658 centers, including 15 foreign sites such Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Doha, Singapore, and Munich. The Computer Based Test (CBT) exam was administered in 13 different languages, including Assamese, Bengali, English, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu, on January 21, 22, 23, 24, and 28th, 2026. Maharashtra: 75 Certificates Issued To Educational Institutions On Day Ajit Pawar Died, Minorities Commission Seeks Suspension | Video The test was taken by 13,04,653 out of 13,55,293 registered candidates, representing a 96.26% turnout. All qualified candidates received their JEE Main 2026 results; however, those convicted of UFM are not allowed to obtain any. For any questions about the results, candidates can contact the NTA hotline at +91-11-40759000 or send an email to jeemain@nta.ac.in .
ECI Delegation in Assam To Review Poll Preparedness Ahead of Assembly Polls
CEC Gyanesh Kumar leads delegation ahead of Assembly elections
Guwahati : The brief resignation of senior Congress leader Bhupen Kumar Borah on Monday has once again exposed the internal strain within the Assam unit of the party, just two days before Priyanka Gandhis scheduled visit to the poll-bound state. Early in the morning, Borah sent his resignation to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, marking a copy to Rahul Gandhi. The move caught many in the party off guard. A two-time MLA from Bihpuria and a Congressman since 1994, Borah served as president of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee from July 2021 to May 2025 before being replaced by Gaurav Gogoi. He currently heads the partys campaign committee for the upcoming Assembly elections. Within hours, the party shifted into damage control mode. AICC general secretary and Assam in-charge Jitendra Singh, along with Gaurav Gogoi and other senior leaders, rushed to Borahs residence in Guwahati. Rahul Gandhi is understood to have spoken to him personally. By afternoon, Jitendra Singh announced that the resignation had not been accepted and that Borah had agreed to withdraw it after discussions with the leadership. #WATCH | Guwahati, Assam: After quitting Congress, Bhupen Kumar Borah says, I don't deem it necessary to speak on why I resigned. I have certainly resigned and sent my resignation to the high command...Whenever I think it necessary, I will call you and speak in detail...Akhil pic.twitter.com/C0P3MwSwbf ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2026 Though the immediate crisis was defused, the episode has highlighted deeper tensions within the state unit. Speaking to reporters, Borah said he had resigned on principle and not because of any individual. He declined to elaborate on the reasons immediately, saying he would speak at an appropriate time. I have served the Congress for 32 years. I am concerned about the future of the party, he said, adding that he does not believe in taking decisions in secrecy. At the same time, Borah did not deny feeling sidelined. Reports suggest that issues of self-respect and being ignored in key decisions figured in his resignation letter. In a significant remark, Borah said leaders from different political parties had reached out to him, including Akhil Gogoi and Lurinjyoti Gogoi. He also confirmed that the Congress high command had contacted him. However, he made it clear that he was not leaving the party or quitting politics. Guwahati, Assam: On the resignation of Assam Congress leader Bhupen Kumar Borah, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma says, He was the last Hindu leader in the Congress party without family background. Bhupen Borah was the last Hindu leader in Assam Congress whose father or mother pic.twitter.com/V16GQ5sxy8 IANS (@ians_india) February 16, 2026 The roots of the tension appear to go back to the Behali by-election. The state unit under Borah had reportedly decided to back a CPI-ML candidate as part of the Opposition alliance. However, the central leadership fielded Congress candidate Jayanta Bora after intervention from Gaurav Gogoi. Bora lost the election, and the episode is believed to have strained relations within the leadership. Fresh friction surfaced during the Majuli leg of the Samay Parivartanar Yatra earlier this month. Borah hinted at differences over decisions taken during the outreach programme, including who would represent the party. Though he did not name anyone, party sources suggest he was unhappy with certain inclusions in the delegation. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma was quick to react to the developments. He described Borah as the last Hindu leader in the Congress without a political family background and said the BJP would welcome him. The remark is being seen as an attempt to widen divisions within the Congress ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. Assam Politics: Major Setback To Congress Ahead Of Assembly Polls As Bhupen Borah Quits, Sends Resignation To Kharge, Claims Report Also Watch: The developments come at a time when the Congress in Assam is already facing erosion. On the same day as Borahs resignation, Goalpara West MLA Abdur Rashid Mandal and suspended MLA Sherman Ali joined Raijor Dal. In recent years, several Congress MLAs have shifted to the BJP. For now, the high command has managed to contain the immediate fallout. Borah remains in the party, and leaders are holding closed-door meetings to chalk out the way forward. However, the episode has made one thing clear. Beneath the surface, factionalism and dissatisfaction continue to simmer in the Assam Congress. With elections expected in early 2026, the party can hardly afford another round of high drama.
Ahead of Assam polls, ex-APCC chief Bhupen Borah quits Congress
Assam Congress leader Bhupen Kumar Borah resigned ahead of assembly polls. Senior leaders intervened, and Borah has taken back his resignation. He will rethink his decision. Meanwhile, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma commented on Borah's departure and suggested other Congress leaders might join the BJP. Speculation is rife about more Congress MLAs switching parties.
Ex-Assam Congress Chief Bhupen Borah Withdraws Resignation Hours After Quitting Party
Assam CM invites Bhupen Borah to join BJP, offers a safe assembly seat, claims no Hindu leader will continue in Congress party
BJP has no courage to face Congress: Imran Pratapgarhi
Jaipur, Feb 16 (PTI) Congress Rajya Sabha MP Imran Pratapgarhi on Monday alleged that the BJP does not have the courage to face his party in Parliament, apparently referring to the absence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi from the Lok Sabha. Those who dream of a Congress-mukt Bharat do not have the courage to come to Parliament and face the Congress, he said while addressing the partys Paigam-e-Mohabbat programme in Jaipur. Pratapgarhi termed the India-US deal a result of a conspiracy against farmers and small traders, and said its consequences would be visible soon. He said the country was going
Locals claim higher toll after 7 die of liver disease at Haryana village
Chandigarh, Feb 16 (PTI) Locals claimed more people died due to liver-related ailments at a village in Haryanas Palwal district, even as the authorities put the toll at seven in the past fortnight, prompting the health department to monitor the situation round-the-clock. Seven deaths, four of them due to Hepatitis B, were reported at Chhainsa village in the Hathin sub-division over the past two weeks, officials said. Some villagers, however, claimed the number of deaths was higher. They also claimed that a lack of clean drinking water aggravated the problem. Mohd Imran, a villager, claimed before reporters that 15-20 people
News18 Evening Digest: SC Slams Pleas Against Assam CM, Indian Girl Among Victims In Epstein Files
We are also covering: TN BJP Chief Nagendran Expresses Regret Over Remark Linking Trisha With Vijay, Imran Khan's Eye Report Submitted To Chief Justice and other top stories.
PM Modi surrendered before Trump, US trade deal will devastate farmers livelihood: Congress
New Delhi, Feb 16 (PTI) The Congress on Monday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has surrendered before US President Donald Trump in agreeing to the India-US interim trade deal, which, it claimed, will devastate the livelihoods of crores of farmers across states. Slamming the Centre, Congress general secretary Randeep Surjewala said trade agreements should not become a path to slavery by sacrificing a countrys sovereignty. Trade agreements are the path to economic progress. The very foundation of trade agreements is mutual public interest on equal terms. Trade agreements should not be a path to slavery by sacrificing a countrys
Wholesale inflation jumps to 10-month high on food price rise
NEW DELHI, Feb 16 (Reuters) Wholesale prices rose 1.81% year-on-year in January, the fastest pace in 10 months, as vegetable and basic metal prices picked up, government data showed on Monday. Economists polled by Reuters had projected wholesale prices to rise 1.25% year-on-year in January, after a 0.83% rise a month prior. Wholesale price inflation was last higher in March 2025 at 2.25%. Get the latest news from India and how it matters to the world with the Reuters India File newsletter. Sign up here. The higher cost of manufacturing basic metals, prices of food and textiles, among others,
Hours After Quitting, Congress' Assam Unit Chief Makes Big U-Turn
On Sunday Bhupen Borah, the Congress' Assam unit chief, resigned from the party to call time on a 32-year association. On Monday he reportedly took back the resignation after a meeting with senior Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi.
Bhupen Borah withdrew resignation after Congress high commands intervention: AICC Assam in-charge
Meanwhile, Mr. Borah told reporters outside his residence that he has sought time from the Congress high command to reconsider his decision
India records lowest-ever price of 279/kg for green hydrogen in tender
The bid of 279 per kilogram was to supply 10,000 tonnes of green hydrogen a year to Numaligarh Refinery Ltd., majority owned by state-run Oil India Ltd., in Assam
'Political Pappu': BJP slams Rahul Gandhi
The BJP has criticized Rahul Gandhi, labeling him a 'failed dynast'. This comes as former Assam Congress chief Bhupen Borah resigns, citing neglect. Veteran Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar's remarks about Kerala also drew criticism. These events highlight a perceived lack of confidence in Gandhi from within his own party and among allies.
In a dramatic U-turn, senior Congress leader Bhupen Kumar Borah on Monday withdrew his resignation hours after tendering it to the party high command, following intense backchannel discussions and persuasion by top leaders. #WATCH Guwahati | Congress in-charge for Assam, Bhanwar Jitendra Singh, says, I thank Bhupen Borah for taking back his resignation...Senior Congress leader Bhupen Borah is an important member of the Congress family. He had sent his resignation to our party's national president. pic.twitter.com/ycf9ABYllP ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2026 Congress in-charge for Assam, Bhanwar Jitendra Singh, thanked Borah for reconsidering his decision, saying the resignation had not been accepted by the party president. He is an important member of the Congress family. Sometimes there are differences of opinion. The party leadership, including Rahul Gandhi, held a long discussion with him. We have resolved this through dialogue, Singh said, noting Borahs three-decade-long association with the party. Earlier in the day, Assam Congress president and MP Gaurav Gogoi visited Borahs residence and reportedly played a key role in persuading him to retract his resignation. Assam Politics: Major Setback To Congress Ahead Of Assembly Polls As Bhupen Borah Quits, Sends Resignation To Kharge, Claims Report Speaking to the media after submitting his resignation, Borah had hinted at internal disagreements, saying, All of this started from Behali If the Congress party cant even decide who they want with them in the Majuli yatra, then we need to look at the future of the party. He also revealed that leaders from multiple parties, including CPI(M), had reached out to him. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma reacted sharply, calling Borahs resignation symbolic of deeper troubles within the state Congress. He alleged that the party was gripped by appeasement politics and claimed that several Congress leaders may soon resign, though he said the BJP was not actively encouraging defections ahead of the Rajya Sabha election. Borahs reversal has temporarily defused tensions but exposed simmering factional fault lines within the Assam Congress unit.
Congress Claims Bhupen Borah Withdrew Resignation, He Says 'Not Yet'
Assam Congress in-charge Jitendra Singh informed that Bora's resignation was not accepted by the party.
How a homegrown startup is modernizing tea manufacturing in Assam
Built on tradition but driven by technology, Assams tea sector is facing a long-overdue reset. A young venture from the state is overhauling tea manufacturing to make it cleaner, more efficient, and future-ready.
Disturbing Trend: Top Court Junks Plea Over Himanta Sarma's Miya Remark
The Supreme Court struck a displeased note Monday as it refused petitions to file a police case against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over alleged hate speech incidents.
Assam CM invites former Congress chief Bhupen Borah to join BJP after resignation
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has publicly invited former Assam Congress chief Bhupen Borah to join the BJP following Borah's resignation. He claims that Borah was being ignored by the party leadership and was not accorded his due in the state unit.
Assam To Kerala, Divided We Stand: Decoding Congress Turmoil Across 4 Poll Battlegrounds
Infighting, strain with allies to senior leaders comments: A look at the Congresss poll position, alliances in Tamil Nadu, Assam, Kerala and Bengal
SC refuses to entertain pleas against Assam CM over shooting video
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday, February 16, refused to entertain petitions seeking action against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over a viral video purportedly showing him taking aim and firing with a rifle at members of the Muslim community. A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
The Supreme Court declined to hear pleas for an FIR and SIT probe against Himanta Biswa Sarma concerning a controversial video, directing petitioners to the Gauhati High Court. Justices questioned the bypass of lower courts, deeming it an undermining of their authority and a concerning election-eve trend. The bench urged constitutional restraint.
SC Refuses to Entertain Pleas Against Assam CM's Shooting Video
The top court also asked the chief justice of the Gauhati High Court to expedite the hearing in the matter
The Supreme Court has declined to hear petitions seeking action against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The court has asked petitioners to approach the Gauhati High Court for an expeditious hearing. This decision comes after allegations of discriminatory remarks and a viral video. The Supreme Court emphasized the High Court's authority in such matters.
The Supreme Court on Monday refused to entertain a batch of petitions seeking the registration of an FIR and the constitution of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over his alleged discriminatory remarks, including the controversial Miya reference to a community. Supreme Court has refused to entertain various petitions seeking action by way of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe and an FIR against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over his alleged discriminatory remarks, particularly the Miya remark in reference to a ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2026 A bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said that the issues raised required adjudication by the jurisdictional High Court. The court asked the petitioners not to undermine the powers of High Courts and granted them liberty to approach the appropriate High Court for relief. It also requested the Chief Justice of the concerned High Court to ensure an expeditious hearing of the matter. Various directions against officials are sought In our considered view, all these issues need to be effectively adjudicated by the High Court of the jurisdiction. Consequently, without expressing any opinion, the petitioners are at liberty to approach the jurisdictional High Court, the bench observed. Supreme Court Agrees To Hear Plea Of Left Leaders Against Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Over 'Shooting' Video According to reports, the petitions were filed by the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and Annie Raja of the Communist Party of India. They sought an FIR and an SIT probe into alleged hate speeches and a video posted on the Assam BJPs official X handle, which showed Sarma firing a rifle, with a caption reading point-blank shot. The video, uploaded on February 7, was later taken down following backlash from the Congress party. The petitioners argued that state and central agencies could not be trusted to conduct an impartial probe.
Excitement is building among lottery players as the Nagaland State Dear Dwarka Monday Morning Lottery results are set to be declared today, February 16, 2026, at 1 PM. The first prize winner will take home a grand prize of 1 crore, making it one of the most anticipated draws of the week. The official result list will be uploaded shortly after the announcement on the Nagaland State Lottery Departments official website. At The Free Press Journal (FPJ), were closely following the live updates to bring you the latest winning numbers. If youve purchased a ticket for the Dear Dwarka Monday Lottery, you can check the complete winner list here once its released. Official websites to check the lucky draw The users can also check the results on the official website of the Nagaland State Lottery on www.nagalandlotteries.com , www.lotterysambad.com and www.nagalandlotterysambad.com and follow the steps. Playing lottery is legal in only 13 states in India In India, lottery draws are legal and actively run in 13 states, offering millions of people a chance to try their luck every day. These include Kerala, Goa, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, West Bengal, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Sikkim, Nagaland and Mizoram. Each of these states operates its own official lottery under strict government regulation. Among them, the Nagaland State Lottery and West Bengal State Lottery are especially popular due to their high prize amounts, with the first prize often reaching 1 crore. These lotteries are known for their transparency and accessibility - even those with limited means can participate, as tickets for lotteries such as the Sikkim, Nagaland and West Bengal State Lotteries are priced as low as 6, while offering life-changing rewards. The prizes of the Nagaland State Lottery are as follows: 1st Prize: Rs 1 Crore 2nd Prize: Rs 9,000 3rd Prize: Rs 450 4th Prize: Rs 250 5th Prize: Rs 120 Cons Prize: Rs 1,000 Nagaland State Lottery Result: February 15, 2026, 8 PM Live - Watch Streaming Of Winners List Of Dear Magic Sambad Night Sunday Weekly Draw Disclaimer: FPJ does not support or encourage playing the lottery. It's important to be careful because playing lotteries too much can be addictive and this involves financial risk. The information provided here is just to share updates and should not be seen as advice or encouragement to play.
Tax Hike Backfires: Cigarette Smuggling Soars, Legal Sales Hit Hard
Chennai: The Union governments plan to tax smokers by making cigarettes costlier by Rs 2-5 per stick with an additional excise levy of 40% is likely to boost the smuggling of misbranded and foreign cancer sticks from south-east Asian countries, a trend already on the rise in the last five years. Senior officials in the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) said that the February 1 hike in taxes for cigarettes, which already constitute around 70-75% of retail prices, makes evasion and hence the black market an extremely lucrative trade for organized syndicates operating it. This not only negates the governments intention to dent smoking as a habit, but also causes losses in several thousand crores in legal tax revenue, officials said. Latest official data of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) shows that their seizures of smuggled cigarettes went up by 82% from 5.14 crore sticks in 2019-20 to 9.4 crore sticks in 2024-25. These are only a fraction of the total allIndia seizures, as sister agency Customs and other enforcers like Assam Rifles have also foiled multiple smuggling bids through the land, sea, and air borders. An accepted thumb rule in CBIC is that only 10% of the smuggled goods are stopped, which is an indication of the size of the growing illicit trade. DRI identifies India as a key destination and transit hub for these illegal tobacco products and that it poses serious challenges to public health, economy and law enforcement. Two kinds of cigarettes are smuggled into India. Premium Homes Priced At 1 Crore & Above Now Account For 50% Of Indias Residential Sales: Knight Frank Report The first is a rip-off of Indian brands like Gold Flake, which industry experts say contains substandard quality of tobacco grown abroad. These can be easily identified as the boxes contain wrong or no health warnings mandated by the Indian government. The second is foreign cigarettes like Mond,Manchester, ESSE, Benson & Hedges, Gudang Garam, etc, which are popular among Indian smokers, but can be legally imported only after paying a massive duty and complying with warning labels specified by the Indian government. The cigarettes are smuggled from southeast Asia through Myanmar (land), Middle Eastern Free Trade Zones and maritime containers (sea), and air cargo and passengers (air). In October-December 2025 alone, DRI alone seized at least 2 crore smuggled cigarette sticks from various parts of Northeast India. In November, Chennai Customs arrested a gang which smuggled 647 cartons of Mond brand cigarettes worth Rs 12.94 crore from Dubai; sleuths found that a cityresident had used the Import-Export Code (IEC) credentials of a Bengaluru-based trader for the smuggling bid. Around six months ago, 92 lakh cigarettes worth Rs 18.2 crore were seized by DRI at the citys Kattupalli port in a container from Dubai, declared to have bathroom and sanitary fittings. DRI says that smugglers exploit the sheer scale of containerized shipments arriving at seaports to conceal foreign-origin cigarettes within legitimate consignments. Indias Trade Push Enters A New & More Aggressive Phase, Here's How FTAs Expanding Will Drive Faster Growth & Boost MSME Exports Globally? Shipments are falsely declared to avoid detection by automated risk-profiling systems, the agency noted in its latest report. The agency has also intercepted several trucks carrying foreign-origin cigarettes in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. DRIs latest analysis indicates the port of origin of these consignments to be UAE (30%), Singapore (27%), Vietnam (24%) and Thailand (19%). When asked what makes this trade so lucrative, senior CBIC officials say the devil is in the tax detail. Their back-of-the-envelope calculations show that a fake Indian brand cigarette manufactured in Vietnam or Cambodia costs only around Rs 4 per stick, while it is sold at Rs 15 per stick in Indian paan shops, at least Rs 3-5 cheaper than the original, heavily-taxed Made-in-India cigarette. Even after accounting for shipping costs and other overheads, the smuggling syndicate earns a cool profit of Rs 8-10 per stick, the senior officials said. This profit is now set to swell with the additional tax levy from February 1. Women, Tech And Defence In Focus, Here's How Budget 2026 Shapes Indias Future Vision? The massive profits are opportune for smugglers hit by lower margins in the gold trade, a Customs investigator said. This trend has worried Indian manufacturers as they must compete with cheaper rip-offs of their own products. Around 14 months ago, market leader Indian Tobacco Company (ITC) wrote to the Union Finance Ministry, flagging an annual Rs 21,000 crore tax loss due to this smuggling and highlighting its impact on Indian tobacco farmers. The letter was later sent as an alert to DRI and Customs formations across the country to tighten up vigil. A senior CBIC official noted on a grim note that the primary reason for this trade to continue flourishing is that nicotine addiction makes consumption relatively inelastic. When legal prices rise, consumers dont quit immediately. They will obviously gravitate towards cheaper cigarettes sold informally in local markets, the officer said.
'Quit For Self-Respect': Bhupen Bora Resigns From Congress For 32 Years
Senior Congress leader in Assam, Bhupen Bora, announced that he has resigned from the party, ending his 32-year-long association with the grand old party.
In a major setback for the Congress ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in Assam, former state unit chief Bhupen Kumar Borah has resigned from the party, sources said on Monday. According to report in the Press Trust Of India, Borah has submitted his resignation letter to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, citing dissatisfaction with the partys state leadership. Claims Of Being Ignored By Leadership In his letter as mentioned by PTI, Borah reportedly stated that he was being ignored and was not given due importance in the partys state affairs. He is understood to have expressed concern over the lack of consultation and diminishing role in organisational matters. STORY | Former Assam Congress chief Bhupen Borah resigns from party ahead of Assembly polls In a major jolt to the Congress ahead of the Assembly polls in Assam, the party's former state unit chief Bhupen Kumar Borah has resigned, according to sources. READ: pic.twitter.com/80Rk6Qx8Jf Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 16, 2026 The development comes at a crucial time, with the Congress attempting to strengthen its position in Assam ahead of the Assembly polls. Led Assam Congress From 2021 To 2025 Borah served as the president of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee from 2021 to 2025. He was replaced last year by Gaurav Gogoi, marking a leadership shift within the state unit. A two-time legislator, Borah has been considered an influential face of the party in Assams political landscape. PM Modi Attacks Congress, Showcases New Assam Development Under BJP Rule Ahead Of 2026 Polls | VIDEO Setback Ahead Of Polls His resignation is likely to add to the Congress challenges in Assam, where the party has been working to consolidate its base and counter political rivals ahead of the high-stakes electoral battle. There was no immediate official statement from the party at the time of filing this report. With Inputs from Agency
Former Assam Congress chief Bhupen Borah resigns from party ahead of Assembly polls
Sources said Bhupen Kumar Borah has sent his resignation letter to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge
Ex-Assam Congress Chief Bhupen Borah Resigns, Blames Gaurav Gogois High-Handedness
Bhupen Borah's resignation comes just months ahead of the Assam state assembly elections. He was expected to contest from the newly formed Ranganodi constituency.
Assam to push for four more highway emergency facilities, says Himanta Biswa Sarma
Assam is building new emergency landing strips for aircraft. This is part of a larger plan to strengthen India's defense in the Northeast. The state is also developing new airports and a major road-cum-rail tunnel under the Brahmaputra River. These projects aim to improve connectivity and security in the strategically important region.
Bhopal News: MP Waiting For Central Nod To Bring Wild Buffaloes From Assam
Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Once, wild buffaloes roamed the forests of Madhya Pradesh, but for decades now, none have been sighted in the state. Now, the forest department is planning to bring 12 to 15 wild buffaloes from Kaziranga National Park. In this regard, it has written to the Central government seeking permission for the translocation. However, no response has been received so far. Talking to Free Press, Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (Wildlife) L Krishnamurthy said permission is still awaited from the Government of India. Once we receive the approval, the buffaloes will be translocated from Assam to Kanha Tiger Reserve, he said. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, during his visit to Assam last month, had expressed his desire to get wild buffaloes, rhinoceroses and King Cobras from the state. Assam had agreed in principle to provide the animals. Bhopal Safer Internet Day: Rising Cyber Crimes Major Future Challenge For Police, Says Police Commissioner Sanjay Kumar The forest department has now formally written to the Centre, seeking permission to procure around 15 wild buffaloes from Assam. Kanha was once a landscape of wild buffaloes A former Principal Chief Conservator of Forest said that Madhya Pradesh had a population of wild buffaloes in the past, and they once roamed freely in its forests. However, due to habitat loss and other pressures, they gradually disappeared. He added that Kanha was historically a landscape of wild buffaloes; neighbouring Chhattisgarh still has a small population of around 2030 wild buffaloes. If the state receives the animals, there are strong chances of rebuilding a good population in the region once again.
