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Prohibitory orders imposed along India-Bangladesh border in Assam's Cachar
SILCHAR: Prohibitory orders have been imposed along the India-Bangladesh border in Assam's Cachar district by the administration to prevent illegal movement, an official release said on Wednesday. Preventive restrictions along sensitive border areas have been imposed due to apprehension over possible movement of extremist elements and unauthorised cross-border activities to disturb peace and stability, it said. District Magistrate Mridul Yadav, exercising powers under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), issued the order on Tuesday aimed at preventing illegal movement of people, goods and activities. It has been noted that unchecked movement, particularly during night hours, could facilitate unlawful activities, including unauthorised transportation of essential commodities and cattle, thereby posing serious challenges to law and order, the order stated. Movement of individuals has been restricted from sunset to sunrise within a one-kilometre belt along the border of the district. In addition, movement on the River Surma and along its high banks within the Indian territory has been prohibited during the night. The order also places strict controls on boating and fishing activities on the Surma river. Fishing will be permitted only for local residents and for personal consumption, subject to prior authorisation by the Circle Officer, Katigorah, and compliance with lease conditions. Such permissions will be closely monitored, with copies endorsed to the District Magistrate and the Commandant of the 170th Battalion of the Border Security Force (BSF) at Dholchera, ensuring coordination between civil and security agencies. Transportation of essential commodities such as sugar, rice, wheat, edible oil and salt has been restricted during night hours within a five-kilometre belt inside the district boundary along the Bangladesh border. Any relaxation will be granted only after due verification by supply officials and for specific purposes, time and location, reinforcing transparency and accountability, the release added. State and central government employees who are on official duty in the border areas have been exempted from these restrictions to ensure that essential administrative and security functions remain uninterrupted.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma dismissed claims from Bangladesh suggesting Northeast India should be cut off and annexed, calling such ideas irresponsible and unrealistic given India's economic and military strength. He warned Bangladesh against such behavior, referencing past statements about retaliating against threats to India's Siliguri Corridor.
Bangladeshs threats to cut NE off cannot be tolerated: Assam CM
Himanta Biswa Sarma reacted to a Bangladeshi youth leaders call to shelter Indian separatists and sever the region from Indias mainland
Guwahati Riverfront marked a major milestone
Assam marked a significant urban milestone as two landmark riverfront projects were inaugurated in Guwahati. The developments aimed to transform the Brahmaputra riverbank into a vibrant hub for tourism, culture, and public life. The post Guwahati Riverfront marked a major milestone appeared first on Fusion - WeRIndia .
PM Modi To Open New Airport Terminal In Assam, Dedicate Key Development Projects
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the state for two days beginning December 20, to inaugurate and dedicate a series of major development projects.
Woman from Assam sexually assaulted by youth, 2 minors in Thoothukudi
The accused took a couple to a forest, beat up the man, and sexually assaulted the woman
GUWAHATI: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday said India would not stay silent on Bangladeshs repeated threats of merging the Northeast with Bangladesh. He called it a reflection of a bad mindset. Statements have been emanating from Bangladesh for the past year with calls to merge the Northeast with that country. But how will Bangladesh do it? Its wrong to even imagine this, Sarma told the media. He mentioned that India is a large and sovereign nation with the worlds fourth-largest economy. If such behaviour continues, we should teach them a lesson that we will not remain silent, he further stated. The remarks came a day after Hasnat Abdullah, a youth leader of Bangladeshs newly formed political outfit National Citizen Party, had threatened to breach Indias territorial integrity. I want to tell Bharat in clear terms that if you keep sheltering those who do not believe in the sovereignty, voting and human rights of our country, we will shelter the separatists of India and separate the Northeast, Hasnat had warned. He accused India of making the patrons of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina rise against Bangladesh by giving them money and arms. The provocation from Bangladesh started earlier this year when Chief Adviser of the countrys interim government Prof Mohammed Yunus stated, Seven states of India in its eastern part are a land-locked region. They have no way to reach the ocean. We are the only guardians of the ocean. Later, the threat shifted to the chicken neck, a 22 km-35 km wide corridor in Siliguri connecting the Northeast with the rest of India.CM Sarma had then stated that those who habitually threaten India on the Siliguri corridor must note that Bangladesh has two chicken necks and both are vulnerable. He mentioned that the first chickens neck (80 km) runs from Dakhin Dinajpur in West Bengal to South West Garo Hills in Meghalaya, while the other, Chittagong Corridor (28 km), runs from South Tripura till the Bay of Bengal.
Amid political instability in Bangladesh, a country witnessing an interim government, has been maintaining an anti-India stance constantly. In a fresh, Hasnat Abdullah from National Citizen Party has threatened to 'separate' India's Northeast region which met with strong reply from Assam CM.
'India will teach them lesson': Assam CM slams Bangladesh leader; remark on NE states in focus
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma issued a stern warning to Bangladesh, stating India will retaliate if Bangladeshi politicians continue to make remarks about the northeastern region. His comments followed a statement by a Bangladeshi leader suggesting isolation of India's northeast and support for separatists if India destabilizes Bangladesh.
Modi govts illegality fully exposed: Congress after court relief for Gandhis in National Herald case
New Delhi, Dec 16 (PTI) The Congress on Tuesday claimed the illegality of the Narendra Modi government and its politically motivated prosecution stands fully exposed after a court here refused to take cognisance of the Enforcement Directorates National Herald money laundering case against Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi and others. In a statement, Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate said the EDs proceedings against Congress leadership Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi in the case have been found to be completely illegal and malafide by the court. The malafide and illegality of the Modi government stands fully exposed. The court has ruled
Rupee falls to record low of 91.01 against USD; govt cites trade gap, delay in India-US trade deal
Mumbai, Dec 16 (PTI) The rupee fell 23 paise against the greenback to settle at a new all-time low of 91.01 (provisional) on Tuesday, as the government in the Rajya Sabha attributed the sliding value of domestic currency to widening trade deficit and the ongoing developments related to the India-US trade agreement. During the session, the local unit lost 36 paise from its previous close against the greenback to hit its lowest-ever level of 91.14, but regained some ground later in the day. Even a weaker greenback and a sharp decline in global crude oil prices could not prevent the
Woman from Assam dies after being trapped in machine in Erode
CAPFs Report 438 Suicides, 7 Fratricides in 3 Years; Over 23,000 Resignations Since 2014: Govt Data
New Delhi, Dec 16: A total of 438 suicides and seven fratricides were reported among personnel of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), Assam Rifles, and National Security Guard (NSG) over the last three years, the government informed Parliament on Tuesday. In a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha, Minister of State [] The post CAPFs Report 438 Suicides, 7 Fratricides in 3 Years; Over 23,000 Resignations Since 2014: Govt Data appeared first on Northlines .
CAPFs Saw 438 Suicides, 7 Fratricides In 3 Years; Over 23,000 Personnel Resigned Since 2014: Govt
New Delhi, Dec 16: A total of 438 incidents of suicide and seven fratricides were reported among the personnel of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), Assam Rifles and National Security Guard (NSG) over the last three years, the government informed Parliament on Tuesday. In a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai provided data that showed that the number of suicide cases declined from 157 in 2023 to 133 [] The post CAPFs Saw 438 Suicides, 7 Fratricides In 3 Years; Over 23,000 Personnel Resigned Since 2014: Govt appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
The Assam Police Constable recruitment 2025 is now open, with the State Level Police Recruitment Board inviting online applications for 1,715 posts. Eligible candidates can apply on slprbassam.in until January 16, 2026, for both Armed and Unarmed Branch positions. The selection process involves physical tests, a written exam, and academic score evaluation.
Gold edges higher as dollar eases ahead of year-end US jobs data
Dec 16 (Reuters) Gold prices edged higher on Tuesday, supported by a softer dollar, as investors awaited the release of key U.S. jobs data that could shape expectations for the Federal Reserves policy path in the new year. Spot gold was up 0.1% at $4,311.64 per ounce, as of 0230 GMT, extending a year-to-date rally of more than 64% that has seen bullion smash multiple records. U.S. gold futures were little changed at $4,333.20. The U.S. dollar hovered near a two-month low in early Asian trade, lending support to greenback-priced bullion. The dollars performance remains subdued which is helping
90,000 Yaba Tablets Worth Rs 26 Crore Seized In Assam, 2 Arrested
Cachar Police in Assam seized 90,000 Yaba tablets, estimated to be worth Rs 26 crore in the illicit market, and arrested two drug smugglers during a major anti-narcotics operation in the state.
Rupee falls 9 paise to record low of 90.87 against US dollar in early trade
Mumbai, Dec 16 (PTI) The rupee plunged 9 paise to a record low of 90.87 against the US dollar in early trade on Tuesday, weighed down by sustained FII outflows and no breakthrough in the India-US trade deal. However, a weaker greenback and a decline in global crude oil prices capped further losses in the domestic unit, according to forex traders. At the interbank foreign exchange, the rupee opened at its all-time low of 90.87 against the US dollar, down 9 paise from its previous close, and traded in a narrow range of 90.77- 90.87 in early trade. The rupee
Stock markets decline in early trade dragged by foreign fund outflows, weak global trends
Mumbai, Dec 16 (PTI) Benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty declined in early trade on Tuesday as persistent foreign fund outflows and weak global market trends dented investors sentiment. The 30-share BSE Sensex declined 363.92 points to 84,849.44 during initial trade. The 50-share NSE Nifty dropped 106.65 points to 25,920.65. From the Sensex firms, Eternal, Axis Bank, HCL Tech, Infosys, Tata Steel, and Bharat Electronics were among the major laggards. However, Bharti Airtel, Asian Paints, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, and Titan were among the gainers. In Asian markets, South Koreas Kospi, Japans Nikkei 225 index, Shanghais SSE Composite index, and Hong
Affront to non-Hindi speaking people: Chidambaram slams use of Hindi words in bills names
New Delhi, Dec 16 (PTI) Congress leader P Chidambaram has slammed the increasing practice of the government using Hindi words in the titles of the bills and said the change is an affront to the non-Hindi-speaking people. Chidambaram said the non-Hindi-speaking people cannot identify a Bill/Act with titles that are in Hindi words written in English letters, and they cannot pronounce them. I am opposed to the increasing practice of the government using Hindi words written in English letters in the title of the Bills to be introduced in Parliament, the former Union minister said late Monday night. Hitherto, the
PM degree defamation case: Gujarat court rejects Kejriwal, Sanjay Singhs plea for separate trial
Ahmedabad, Dec 16 (PTI) A sessions court here has rejected pleas of AAP leaders Arvind Kejriwal and Sanjay Singh for separation of trial in a criminal defamation case over their remarks on PM Narendra Modis educational degree, noting they appeared to be animated by a common purpose. Additional Sessions Judge M P Purohit on Monday dismissed the revision applications filed by former Delhi chief minister Kejriwal and Rajya Sabha member Singh, who challenged the trial courts order that had rejected their request for separate trials, and requested to quash the orders. Gujarat University had filed the defamation case over what
Assam Police seizes 90,000 Yaba tablets worth Rs 26 crores from Cachar
Police also apprehended two persons and recovered the drugs from the secret chamber of a truck
US Jewish groups urge heightened security at public events after Hanukkah attack in Australia
NEW YORK, December 16, 2025 (AP) Leading Jewish groups in the United States are urging all Jewish organizations to ratchet up security measures at public events including restrictions on access following the deadly mass shooting that targeted a Hanukkah celebration on a popular Australian beach. The groups including three which specialize in security issues said Jewish public events in the coming days should be open only to people who had been screened after preregistering. Provide details of location, time, and other information only upon confirmed registration, the groups advisory said. Have access control (locks and
PM mourns death of Assam editor P.G. Baruah
Prafulla Gobinda Baruah, also the managing director of The Assam Tribune group, breathed his last on December 14 night
This Congress MP once claimed Lionel Messi was 'born in Assam'; know what exactly happened
On Monday, Messi wrapped up his three-day India tour with an event in Delhi. Thousands of fans gathered at a stadium in the capital city to get a glimpse of the Inter Miami forward. Here's more on this.
Assam CM Sarma meets Finance Minister to discuss state's development and welfare initiatives
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma met Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. They discussed key issues for Assam's development and people's welfare. Matters of economic growth and infrastructure were deliberated. Cooperation between the Centre and state was emphasized to accelerate growth. The Chief Minister expressed gratitude for support in Assam's journey.
BJP names Piyush Goyal in-charge of T.N. polls, Panda for Assam
Piyush Goyal has experience in handling the partys affairs in Tamil Nadu having facilitated the BJP-AIADMK alliance before the 2019 elections
Nitin Nabin takes charge as BJP working president
His immediate challenges will be to face the Assembly elections due in West Bengal, Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry
India proposes revamp of rural job scheme, dropping Mahatma Gandhis name
NEW DELHI, Dec 15 (Reuters) India has presented legislation to expand a 20-year-old rural employment scheme by boosting the number of guaranteed workdays but opposition leaders challenged plans to remove independence hero Mahatma Gandhis name from the programme. The bill would guarantee 125 days of employment a year instead of the current 100 days per household for unskilled manual labour, Prime Minister Narendra Modis government said in its parliamentary listing of the measure. It had earmarked 860 billion rupees ($9.5 billion) for the scheme for the current fiscal year that ends on March 31, 2026. The governments notification to
Stock markets close marginally lower on foreign fund outflows, weak rupee; Sensex slips 54 pts
Mumbai, Dec 15 (PTI) Benchmark stock indices Sensex and Nifty pared most of early losses to close marginally down on Monday amid persistent foreign fund outflows and weak global trends. The 30-share BSE Sensex closed lower by 54.30 points, or 0.06 per cent, at 85,213.36. The benchmark opened lower and declined further by 427.34 points, or 0.50 per cent, to hit a low of 84,840.32, but value buying in FMCG and IT shares in the second half helped cut losses. The 50-share NSE Nifty edged lower by 19.65 points, or 0.08 per cent, to 26,027.30. The broader index hit a
2026 Polls: BJP Appoints Piyush Goyal As In-Charge For Tamil Nadu, Baijayant Panda For Assam
Jagat Prakash Nadda appointed Piyush Goyal as Tamil Nadu Election Incharge and Baijayant Panda for Assam.
LoP Sharma gets key role in Assam polls after stunning Rajya Sabha, by-poll show
Srinagar: Buoyed by his role in the recent Rajya Sabha election and Assembly by-elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party(BJP) has given a key role to Leader Sunil Kumar Sharma in the election management of Assam, scheduled to go to polls next year. BJP has appointed Sharma as co-incharge of elections for Assam, which will go to []
BJP puts Piyush Goyal in charge of Tamil Nadu, Baijayant Panda for Assam ahead of 2026 polls
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National President Jagat Prakash Nadda on Monday appointed Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce & Industry as the Election Incharge and, Arjun Ram Meghwal, Minister of State (IC) for Law & Justice and Parliamentary Affairs and Muralidhar Mohol, Minister of State Civil Aviation & Co-operations as the Election Co-Incharge, for the forthcoming Tamil Nadu 2026 Assembly elections.
Bibhab Kr. Talukdar: A visionary conservation leader of global repute
By Manas Kumar Bhattacharjya In lush green grasslands of Assams key protected areas, where the majestic presence of the one-horned Indian rhinoceros adds tremendous value to the biodiversity, one mans vision has quietly transformed the way India understands conservation of this ancient animal species. Bibhab Kumar Talukdar, Ph.D., is not merely a wildlife scientist []
Search operation ends in Anjaw truck accident, 20 bodies recovered
A multi-agency search and rescue operation in Arunachal Pradesh's Anjaw district has concluded after a mini-truck carrying 21 people from Assam plunged into a gorge. Twenty bodies were recovered, and one survivor was rescued following intensive efforts. The operation, which began on December 11, was formally called off on Monday.
PM Modi condoles death of veteran Assam journalist PG Baruah
GUWAHATI: Prafulla Govinda Baruah, a doyen of journalism in Assam, passed away on Sunday night due to age-related ailments. He was 93. Baruah is survived by his wife and two daughters. Born in Dibrugarh in upper Assam, Baruah was a Padma Shri awardee and served as the editor of The Assam Tribune , founded by his father, the late Radha Govinda Baruah. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma were among the leaders who mourned his demise. Saddened by the passing away of Shri PG Baruah ji, Editor and Managing Director of The Assam Tribune Group. He will be remembered for his contribution to the media world. He was also passionate about furthering Assams progress and popularising the states culture. My thoughts are with his family and admirers. Om Shanti, the Prime Minister posted on X. Chief Minister Sarma described Baruah as a towering figure in Assams journalistic landscape. His lifelong dedication to principled journalism and his immense contribution to literature, education and public life will always be cherished. Deepest condolences to his bereaved family, colleagues and countless admirers, Sarma wrote on X.
Assam CM invites Vice President to visit Assam to witness progress
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma met with Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan in New Delhi, congratulating him on his new role. Sarma extended an invitation for the Vice President to visit Assam and observe the state's recent developmental progress and transformation.
Stock markets trade lower in early deals on foreign fund outflows, weak global trends
Mumbai, Dec 15 (PTI) Equity benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty declined in early trade on Monday in-tandem with a weak trend in global markets and persistent foreign fund outflows. Also, uncertainty over an India-US trade deal weighed on investors sentiment, analysts said. The 30-share BSE Sensex declined 384.39 points to 84,883.27 in early trade. The 50-share NSE Nifty edged lower by 122.9 points to 25,924.05. From the Sensex firms, Mahindra & Mahindra, Bharti Airtel, Trent, NTPC, Bajaj Finserv and Power Grid were among the major laggards. However, Asian Paints, Hindustan Unilever, UltraTech Cement, Bharat Electronics and Tata Steel were the
Omega-3 fatty acids can help prevent heart disease: Study
More than three-quarters of the global population is falling short on omega-3 intake, a nutrient gap that may increase the risk of heart disease, cognitive decline, inflammation and vision problems. Thats according to an analysis published in Nutrition Research Reviews, in which researchers from the University of East Anglia, the University of Southampton and Holland & Barrett analyzed omega-3 intake patterns across multiple countries and age groups. The review found that 76% of people worldwide are not meeting the recommended levels of two omega-3 fats that are essential for heart health: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The analysis
Father and son gunmen kill at least 15 people in attack on Hanukkah event at Sydneys Bondi Beach
SYDNEY, December 15, 2025 (AP) Two gunmen opened fire during a Hanukkah celebration on Sydneys Bondi beach, killing 15 people, including a child, officials said Monday, in what Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called an act of antisemitic terrorism that struck at the heart of the nation. The shooters were father and son, authorities said. The massacre at one of Australias most popular beaches followed a wave of antisemitic attacks that have roiled the country over the past year, although the authorities didnt suggest those and the shooting Sunday were connected. It was the deadliest shooting in almost three decades
Survey finds LGBTQIA+ youth face highest discrimination at home and school
A recent survey of over 900 LGBTQ+ individuals by a Kolkata-based organisation, Bridge, which works for the rights of the community across Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Odisha, Jharkhand and West Bengal, reported that most bullying happens between the ages of 12 and 15 years
Assam CM and Mumbai dabbawallahs receive awards
Two arrested in Assam over death of 21 workers in Arunachal
Rescue teams have recovered 20 bodies from a 200-metre gorge near Chaglagam in Arunachal Pradeshs Anjaw district, while two persons were arrested for illegally supplying labour to the State
Brahmaputra litfest to focus on Assams cultural icons
The spotlight of the event from February 6 to 8, 2026 will also be on tribal heritage and indigenous storytelling traditions
Multiple police and defence recruitment drives are underway across India, offering over 85,000 vacancies in central forces, state police units and the Territorial Army. Recruitment boards including SSC, SLPRB Assam Police, GPRB, UPPBPB and the Territorial Army have released notifications for constable, sub-inspector, soldier and volunteer posts. Eligibility ranges from Class 8 to graduate-level qualifications, with application deadlines extending from mid-December 2025 to January 2026.
2 More From Bangladesh Get Indian Citizenship Under CAA In Assam
Two persons, including a woman, have been granted Indian citizenship under the CAA, taking the count of people receiving it under the Act to four in Assam, their lawyer said.
A woman among two granted citizenship under CAA in Assam, tally rises to four
For the first time, a woman was granted citizenship under the Act in the northeastern State, says a member of Foreigners' Tribunal in Silchar
Assam: Woman among two granted citizenship under CAA, tally rises to five
GUWAHATI: Two persons, including a woman, have been granted Indian citizenship under the CAA, taking the count of people receiving it under the Act to five in Assam, their lawyer said. For the first time, a woman was granted citizenship under the Act in the northeastern state, senior advocate Dharmananda Deb, who had also been a member of the Foreigners' Tribunal in Silchar, said. The 40-year-old woman had entered India from Bangladesh in 2007 and had been living in Sribhumi, while the 61-year-old man, who came to the country in 1975, had been living in Cachar, he said. The Ministry of Home Affairs issued the certificates on Friday, and the citizenship is deemed effective from the day both individuals entered India, Deb said, while declining to disclose their names, citing possible social harassment. He said the woman, who hails from Bangladesh's Chittagong, had accompanied a family member for treatment at Silchar Medical College and Hospital. She met a man from Sribhumi, married him, gave birth to a son and stayed back. She had applied for citizenship after the CAA rules were notified last year, Deb said. Her first application, submitted in July last year, was rejected due to confusion caused by the delimitation exercise before the Lok Sabha elections. Badarpur, where she now lives, was partially moved from Sribhumi to Cachar, creating uncertainty over the jurisdiction of her area. The lawyer had reapplied and her case was finally approved. MHA extends CAA cut-off date to 31 December 2024, easing citizenship process for persecuted minorities Deb said she is the first woman in Assam to receive citizenship under the CAA, and notably the first in the state to be granted citizenship through the registration route. This was granted under Section 5(1)(c), read with Section 6B of the Citizenship Act, 1955, which allows a person married to an Indian citizen to register as an Indian citizen after residing in India for seven years, he explained. The second beneficiary, a resident of Silchar town, came to India at the age of 11 from Bangladesh's Moulvibazar district, and had also married locally, and started a family. He received citizenship through the naturalisation process. Assam now has five individuals who entered India after the 1971 cut-off and have been granted citizenship under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act. Deb said he has assisted around 25 applicants over the last 18 months, but many applications were rejected or remain pending. Around 40 people have so far applied for citizenship in the state since the rules were notified last year. The Act enables Hindu, Christian, Buddhist, Sikh, Jain, and Parsi immigrants from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan who entered India between March 25, 1971 and December 31, 2014 to apply for citizenship. The CAA, passed on December 11, 2019, had sparked statewide protests in Assam, leading to the death of five persons in the violence. Assam has nearly two lakh individuals identified as doubtful citizens, but only a small number have applied under the CAA so far. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has claimed that most Hindus migrated to Assam from Bangladesh before the cut-off date of 1971.
The Assam CM believes the evidence is strong enough to secure a conviction and justice in the case of the death of the icon Zubeen Garg. In the chargesheet, the SIT has charged murder against four accused - Shyamkanu Mahanta, Siddharth Sharma, Shekhar Jyoti Goswami and Amritprava Mahanta.
Queer children face maximum discrimination, bullying at homes, schools: Survey
A recent survey of over 900 LGBTQ+ individuals by a Kolkata-based organisation, 'Bridge', which works for the rights of the community across Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Odisha, Jharkhand and West Bengal, reported that most bullying happens between the ages of 12 and 15 years
Queer children face maximum discrimination, bullying at homes, schools and neighbourhoods: Survey
GUWAHATI: A recent survey found that LGBTQIA+ children and adolescents face the highest levels of discrimination and bullying in their own homes, schools and neighbourhoods, with activists and stakeholders urging for concerted efforts to address these issues to help them get equal opportunities. A recent survey of over 900 LGBTQ+ individuals by a Kolkata-based organisation, 'Bridge', which works for the rights of the community across Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Odisha, Jharkhand and West Bengal, reported that most bullying happens between the ages of 12 and 15 years. Many young people are forced to drop out of school, losing out on education, future employment, and income security, Bridge's founder director Prithviraj Nath told PTI . Even after the decriminalisation of homosexuality in 2018, the NALSA judgment in 2014, and Transgender Protection Act of 2019, LGBTQ+ people continue to face systematic exclusion in education, health care, workplaces, and public life, he said. Basic human rights still remain out of reach for many and it is extremely important that we bring to light the lived realities and challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community, and have dialogues with the larger society towards equal rights and inclusion of the community, Nath added. Rudrani Rajkumari, founder of 'Xomonnoy', an LGBTQIA+ rights organisation and support group, pointed out that the government and all stakeholders must make collective efforts to create a roadmap to reduce discrimination and promote equal rights. We cannot talk about human rights in India and leave out LGBTQIA+ citizens. Every child deserves safety in their home, respect in their school, and dignity in their workplace. Equality is not a favour, it is a constitutional promise, Rajkumari said. Former vice principal of Guwahati's Dispur College, Sunita Agarwalla, claimed that it is one of the pioneer institutions in Assam, having done commendable work for the education of the children from the community. Besides having a gender-neutral toilet, it has reserved seats for such students in both its higher secondary and degree courses, with education being free if such a student needs it and sensitisation programmes are also for all its students regarding the issues of the community, she said. I, as an educator, feel that it is very important to understand that people from the LGBTQIA+ community are also human beings and citizens of our country, so they have to be treated equally by everyone in every aspect, Agarwalla said. Lalit Chandra Bharali College's professor Kunjalata Brahma Bhatiri said that more and more people are voicing their support for equal treatment of people from the community and judgement-free spaces, but a collective and concerted effort from all stratas of society is needed. Sensitisation and orientation to drive in the very understanding of the basic right to live freely and with dignity is required at all levels, she said. More people should talk, discuss, opine and work in attaining dignified living spaces for the queer community, she said. Tezpur University's faculty from the Department of Social Work, Sammy said, Incredible work is being done by multiple stakeholders in the field of queer-inclusive education at secondary, college and university levels in the northeastern region but with every new initiative, we face a wall of structural resistance which is coated in layers of binary understanding of society. Social systems like family, schools, neighbourhoods, state authorities, community institutions, health care services, workplaces and every sector that completes a human being needs gender inclusive approaches and practices as well, she said. We cannot lose our queer students, children, adults and elders to public scorn, confined spaces, hopelessness and suicides, Sammy said. Every department in higher education institutions needs to create safe spaces, accessibility to queer-affirmative support initiatives such as gender-neutral toilets, transport facilities, hostels and common rooms, livelihood opportunities, and speedy redressal mechanism for complaints and quality healthcare services, she said. Former Cotton University professor and Assamese writer Najma Mukherjee said, As an educator and litterateur, I believe in the power of art -- be it literature or the visual arts. Books and movies have definitely contributed to the shaping of public consciousness in understanding queer experiences all around the world. Nath pointed out that stakeholders, during discussions on the issue, have pointed out that there is a need for capacity building for school teachers and B.Ed trainees to equip them with skills to support LGBTQIA+ students. There is also a need to engage more with parents to build understanding and provide supportive environments at home and introduce comics, storybooks, and visual learning tools on gender and sexuality in school libraries, especially in Assamese and other languages, he said. Rajkumari pointed out that stakeholders have urged the government to include mandatory training for teachers and staffers in all educational institutions, in line with the Supreme Court's guidelines on student mental health, and biannual sensitisation for officials in judicial, police, and administrative departments on laws and rights related to LGBTQIA+ people.
Banned insurgent group releases video claiming drone attack on Assam Rifles camp
The incident is said to have occurred on November 28, in which four Assam Rifles personnel were injured.
Retired IAF man held in Assam, 4 arrested in Arunachal for spying
Three suspected spies including retired IAF official arrested
Security agencies have apprehended three suspected spies in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, including a retired Indian Air Force staffer from Tezpur. The individuals are accused of sharing sensitive information with Pakistan-based handlers through social media and Telegram channels, detailing Army movements and defense camp locations.
Assams Demow Model is focus of ICMR project for zero snakebite deaths
The 13.5 crore four-year programme will integrate proven regional strategies, including the Demow Model, which focuses on robust community engagement and referral networks to mitigate snakebite envenoming
Ex-IAF officer held in Assam over alleged Pakistani links
GUWAHATI: A retired Indian Air Force (IAF) officer was arrested in Assam for his alleged links with Pakistani operatives, while Arunachal Police arrested four Kashmiri residents over the past few days in an alleged espionage case. Retired Junior Warrant Officer Kulendra Sarma, a resident of the Patia locality of Tezpur in northern Assams Sonitpur district, was arrested late Friday night. Preliminary investigation revealed he had shared sensitive documents and information with Pakistani operatives. The police seized his laptop and mobile phone and sent them for a forensic examination. Superintendent of Police, Barun Purkayastha, told TNIE that the police were tracking the accused for the past few weeks. We received human intel about him. We kept him under technical surveillance, but slowly the matter was getting serious. We took time to collect evidence and picked him up eventually, Purkayastha said. He added that the police were trying to find out if the accused had any local associates. A case was registered against him under relevanthe t sections of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The last posting of Sarma, who retired in 2002, was at the Air Force Station in Tezpur. Later, he briefly worked at Tezpur University. The IAFs Tezpur base has key air assets, including a Sukhoi 30 squadron. Meanwhile, all four arrested in the frontier state of Arunachal are from Kupwara. On November 21, Itanagar police arrested Nazir Ahmad Malik and Sabir Ahmed Mir based on intelligence inputs about their possible involvement in espionage activities. They reportedly shared vital information about Army movements and installations in Arunachal with their Pakistani associates through a Telegram channel. Later, based on information shared by Itanagar police, West Siang police arrested one Hilal Ahmed from Aalo, and Changlang police arrested one Gulam Md Mir from Miao. Stating that it is a case involving national security, the police urged everyone to wait for the completion of the probe.
Retired IAF Personnel Arrested In Assam For Alleged Links With Pakistan Espionage Network
The suspect was taken into custody after sustained surveillance and preliminary investigation by the police. Suspicious material was recovered from his laptop.
Ex-Air Force Official Held In Assam For Spying For Pakistan As Probe Into Espionage Network Expands
Accused Kulendra Sharma, a resident of Patia locality in Tezpur, is a former Junior Warrant Officer who was posted at the Tezpur Air Force Station and retired from service in 2002
Retired IAF personnel arrested for alleged Pakistan links in Assam
Police said preliminary investigation revealed that the accused had shared sensitive documents and information with Pakistani operatives over social media
Retired IAF Personnel Arrested For Alleged Pak Links In Assam
Accused shared sensitive documents with Pakistani operatives using social media
For First Time, 40-Year-Old Bangladeshi Woman Gets Indian Citizenship Under CAA
A 40-year-old woman from Sribhumi, Assam, became the first in the state to get Indian citizenship under CAA, with approval also granted to a 61-year-old man from Cachar.
Assam Police Sub-Inspector recruitment for 147 vacancies is now open, with applications starting December 16, 2025, and closing January 16, 2026. Graduates can apply for various roles including unarmed and armed branch SIs, communication specialists, station officers, and assistant jailors. The selection involves written tests, physical standards and efficiency tests, and a viva voce.
Woman married to Pakistani national, 3 others held in Assam over suspicious financial transactions
Police in Assam's Sonitpur district have arrested four people, including a woman reportedly married to a Pakistani national. The arrests followed the detection of unusually large foreign deposits in a family's bank account. Investigations revealed the woman had met the Pakistani national online and traveled to Dubai. Authorities seized numerous ATM cards and bank documents.
Assam Woman Arrested Over Pak Link, Unexplained Fund Transfers
A woman from Assam's Sonitpur district has been arrested after the police found suspicious foreign-linked financial transactions. She was purportedly married to a Pakistani national in Dubai.
Assam Woman, 3 Associates Arrested Over Alleged Pakistan Link, Sent To Judicial Custody
Assam Woman, 3 Associates Arrested Over Alleged Pakistan Link, Sent To Judicial Custody
Prominent leaders from Assam join the Congress
Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi said that Assam had been facing serious problems of unemployment during the last ten years of the BJP rule as industries had shut down
Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurates TVS Credit Technology Centre in Guwahati
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated the TVS Credit Technology Centre in Guwahati, a key initiative under Advantage Assam 2.0. This center aims to bolster the state's digital ecosystem by skilling youth for tech roles, supporting AI, automation, and national digital transformation efforts.
Zubeen Case: CM Himanta says motive, conspiracy nailed as Assam SIT files 12,000-page chargesheet
Conspiracy, Motive, In Zubeen Murder Established: Himanta Sharma
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has said the motive and criminal conspiracy has been clearly tracked and it has been examined by Advocate General.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal visited families of victims from Assam who died in a tragic road accident in Arunachal Pradesh's Anjaw district. He conveyed condolences and assured government support, emphasizing coordinated rescue and relief efforts. Prime Minister Modi and the Assam Government announced ex-gratia payments and financial aid for the affected families.
Indias November retail inflation rises to 0.71%
Dec 12 (Reuters) Indias annual retail inflation quickened to 0.71% year-on-year in November, picking up from a record low in October, as the pace of decline in food prices slowed, government data showed on Friday. A Reuters poll had projected retail inflation at 0.7%. The latest print was below the Reserve Bank of Indias target range of 2% to 6% for the third straight month. COMMENTARY: TERESA JOHN, LEAD ECONOMIST, NIRMAL BANG, MUMBAI CPI inflation quickened to 0.71% in November from 0.25% in October as food inflation bottomed out, led by higher vegetable prices due to unseasonal rains. Core
Zubeen Garg's Cousin, Who Went To Singapore With Him, Named In Chargesheet
The special investigation team (SIT) that is probing the death of Assam's cultural icon Zubeen Garg has filed a chargesheet at a local court in Guwahati.
All India Matua Sanghas Gosai Parishad plans one lakh voice Harinam Sankirtan in January
Kolkata, Dec 12 (PTI) The All India Matua Sanghas Gosai Parishad faction on Friday announced plans to hold a lakha kanthe (one-lakh-voice) Harinam Sankirtan in January to reiterate its demand for citizenship for Matua community members and to urge the Election Commission not to delete their names from voter rolls. Gosai Parishad secretary Nantu Halder said the date would be finalised after consultations. We are planning a Harinam Sankirtan with one lakh voices. I will speak to Mamata Bala Didi (TMC MP) about the arrangements and announce the date soon, Halder told reporters. The Gosai Parishad is backed by Trinamool
APSC Junior Engineer Civil result 2025 released: Check direct link to download merit list here
Assam Public Service Commission has announced the Junior Engineer (Civil) Result 2025. Candidates can now check the merit list on the official website, apsc.nic.in. Those whose roll numbers appear in the PDF have qualified for the next stage, document verification. The result details category-wise qualification and marks. Further instructions will be released soon.
Assam Cops Submit Chargesheet In Zubeen Garg Death Case
Zubeen Garg, 52, died while swimming in a sea during a yacht trip in Singapore on September 19.
SIT submits over 3,500 chargesheet in Zubeen Garg death case in Guwahati court
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has filed a 3,500-page chargesheet in the Guwahati Chief Judicial Magistrate's Court concerning the death of singer Zubeen Garg. Garg died under mysterious circumstances in Singapore on September 19 while attending the North East India Festival. The Assam government formed the SIT, which has made seven arrests and examined over 300 witnesses.
Rupee hits new record low; slumps 24 paise to 90.56/USD
Mumbai, Dec 12 (PTI) The rupee depreciated 24 paise to a new record low of 90.56 against US dollar in early trade on Friday, as uncertainty over the India-US trade deal and persistent foreign fund outflows dented investors sentiments. Forex traders said rupee is under pressure largely due to aggressive dollar purchases from importers amid surging global prices for precious metals. At the interbank foreign exchange, the rupee opened at 90.43 against the US dollar, then fell further to 90.56 against the greenback, registering a fall of 24 paise from its previous close. On Thursday, the rupee had plunged 38
Assam SIT files charge sheet in Zubeen Garg murder case
GUWAHATI: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Assam Police filed the charge sheet in the high-profile Zubeen Garg murder case in the court of Chief Judicial Magistrate, Kamrup (Metro), on Friday. The charge sheet was prepared after nearly three months of investigation, during which the SIT recorded the statements of more than 300 people, including a few Singapore-based Assamese expats. The music icon Garg (52) had died mysteriously on September 19 while swimming in the sea in Singapore. He travelled to the country to perform at the 4th North East India Festival (NEIF). Later, the SIT arrested seven persons NEIF organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta, Gargs manager Siddharth Sharma, DSP cousin Sandipan Garg, personal security officers Nandeswar Bora and Prabin Baishya, bandmate Shekhar Jyoti Goswami and singer Amritprabha Mahanta. Recently, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma told the Assembly that one person had murdered Garg and others cooperated. He categorically stated that it was a case of plain and simple murder. They (opposition parties) attacked me asking how I could conclude Zubeen was murdered. But it is in the courts record that this was murder. One person murdered him and others cooperated. We have booked four to five persons on the murder charge, Sarma had stated. Without sharing details, he said a big story (conspiracy) involving Garg started before the Covid pandemic. He indicated that the death was connected to financial matters. We have the evidence. Thats why, I told the SIT to first file the charge sheet on the murder case and then, expand the inquiry so that nobody can escape, Sarma said. He further stated that on the very first day, the government believed Gargs death was not a normal incident and, as such, registered a case under BNS sections 61 (criminal conspiracy), 105 (culpable homicide) and 106 (causing death by negligence). During preliminary investigation, the Assam Police were certain that it was not a case of culpable homicide but a plain and simple murder. So, within two days, the Assam government informed the court that it was a case of murder and requested it to add the BNS section 103. After a debate on it, the court added section 103, Sarma had said.
422 Bodo Liberation Tigers cadres get Rs 2 lakhs as part of rehabilitation package
Over 400 former Bodo Liberation Tigers cadres, previously excluded from rehabilitation, received Rs 2 lakhs each. This initiative is part of a broader peace effort in Assam, following several Memorandums of Settlement with various militant groups since 2020. These efforts have successfully integrated thousands of former cadres into mainstream society through skill development and financial packages.
Japan issues tsunami advisory after 6.7 magnitude quake in countrys northeast
TOKYO, December 12, 2025 (AP) Japan on Friday issued a tsunami advisory after a 6.7 magnitude earthquake shook the countrys northeast, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. Damage and injuries werent immediately clear. Fridays quake followed a 7.5 magnitude earthquake earlier this week in the north that caused injuries, light damage and a tsunami in Pacific coastal communities. At least 34 people were injured in that earlier quake on Monday off the coast of Aomori, the northernmost prefecture of Japans main Honshu island.
At least nine people died when a bus overturned on a ghat road in Andhra Pradesh's Alluri Sitarama Raju district. In a separate incident, 21 people from Assam's Tinsukia district are feared dead after their minitruck plunged into a gorge in Arunachal Pradesh's Anjaw district. Prime Minister Modi announced financial compensation for the victims.
What the Federal Reserve rate cut means for you
NEW YORK, December 11, 2025 (AP) The Federal Reserve cut its benchmark interest rate by a quarter point Wednesday for the third time since September, bringing its key rate to about 3.6%, the lowest in nearly three years. Before September, it had gone nine months without a cut. The benchmark rate is the rate at which banks borrow and lend to one another, and the Fed has two goals when it sets the rate: one, to manage prices for goods and services, and two, to encourage full employment. The benchmark rate also affects the interest rates consumers pay to
Stock markets snap 3-day slide; Sensex jumps 427 pts on buying in metal, auto shares
Mumbai, Dec 11 (PTI) Benchmark stock indices Sensex and Nifty rebounded on Thursday, cutting short a three-day falling streak following buying in auto and metal stocks and a rate cut by the US Federal Reserve. Rebounding from its early lows, the 30-share BSE Sensex climbed 426.86 points or 0.51 per cent, to settle at 84,818.13. During the day, it hit a high of 84,906.93 and a low of 84,150.19. The 50-share NSE Nifty appreciated by 140.55 points, or 0.55 per cent, to close at 25,898.55. Following initial volatility, the Nifty gradually moved higher and closed near the days peak of
Arunachal: 18 killed, seven others missing as truck falls into gorge earlier this week
GUWAHATI: At least 18 people died when a truck, in which they were travelling in, plunged into a deep gorge near Metengliang in the Anjaw district of Arunachal Pradesh. The mishap occurred on the night of December 8 but authorities learnt about it on December 10 after an injured survivor had managed to reach a camp of the General Reserve Engineer Force (GREF) and narrated the incident. After first aid, he was shifted to Assam for further treatment. A group of 22 labourers had left from Assams Tinsukia district for Chaglagam in Anjaw district on December 7 to work at a construction site. Fellow workers were alarmed when they did not reach their destination on time. Based on their complaint, the Hayuliang police in Anjaw district launched a search operation and later, they received information from the GREF camp about the lone survivor. The police said the mishap, which occurred at a place located around 12 km from Chaglagam, remained unreported for two days due to the absence of mobile connectivity in the region. A defence ministry statement said the Indian Army launched a major search and rescue operation based on information received late on December 10. Preliminary inputs from the lone survivor, who managed to reach Chipra GREF Camp, indicate that a truck carrying 22 workers from Tinsukia fell off a cliff. The accident site lies in difficult terrain with limited connectivity and had not been reported by any local agency, contractor or civil representative until the survivors arrival, the statement said. After four hours of intensive search and rope descent on Thursday (December 11) by the teams of Army, police, National Disaster Response Force and GREF, the truck was spotted around 200 metres below the road in a re-entrant, inaccessible and not visible from helicopters or the road due to dense tree cover and thick foliage. Eighteen bodies have been sighted and are being retrieved using belay ropes, the statement said. Authorities were questioning the sub-contractor to verify the antecedents and exact strength of the workers hired. Despite harsh terrain and poor visibility, the Indian Army, in coordination with civil administration and other agencies, is making all possible efforts to trace the remaining individuals and provide immediate assistance, the statement further stated.
22 feared dead in Arunachal gorge tragedy
Tragedy struck in Arunachal Pradesh as at least 22 Assam labourers are feared dead after their mini truck plunged into a deep gorge near the Indo-China border. A lone survivor, severely injured, alerted authorities after a perilous journey. Rescue operations are underway, with specialized teams and the Army working to retrieve bodies from the treacherous terrain.
21 Labourers From Assam Feared Dead After Truck Falls Into Arunachal Gorge
At least 21 people are feared dead after a vehicle carrying daily-wage labourers from Assam's Tinsukia district plunged into a gorge in Arunachal Pradesh.
At least 14 from Assam killed, seven others missing as truck falls into gorge in Arunachal
Arunachal accident: 21 Assam labourers feared dead after truck falls into gorge
The daily-wage labourers reportedly hailed from Assam's Tinsukia district. The accident occurred on Monday night (December 8) on the Hayuliang-Chaglagam road near the Indo-China border. Here are more details on this.
Rupee slumps 54 paise to all-time low of 90.48 against US dollar in intra-day trade
Mumbai, Dec 11 (PTI) The rupee plunged 54 paise to an all-time low of 90.48 against the US dollar in intra-day trade on Thursday after reports surfaced that the India-US trade deal is likely by March 2026. Forex traders said the rupee fell to a new all-time low of 90.48 after Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran reportedly said the India-US trade deal is likely to be inked by March. Moreover, prevailing risk-averse market sentiment, compounded by strong US dollar demand from importers, dented investor sentiment. At the interbank foreign exchange, the rupee opened at 89.95 against the US dollar,
