Mridula Saw the Horrors of Partition
The Government of India decided in 2021 to observe 14 August every year as Partition Horrors Remembrance Day to commemorate the pain and suffering endured by the people during the Partition of India in 1947. Even by the most conservative estimates, two hundred thousand people were killed, while seventy-five thousand women were abducted and raped. India put the number of abducted women at 33,000 Hindu and Sikh women, while Pakistan estimated the number of abducted Muslim women at 50,000. Around twelve million people crossed the borders in both directions. Pertinently, some scholars have described Partition as the dark side of independence. Mridula Sarabhai, a freedom fighter and fiercely independent minded was an eyewitness to the horrors of Partition. General Thimaya described her as the bravest man in Indian army. She worked tirelessly for the recovery of abducted women, refusing to simply follow any official line and, on several occasions, even differing with Mahatma Gandhi whose own life was cut short by an act of violence. Partition Plan Feminist historiography has brought to the fore the ways in which women were tortured and killed during Partition. Urvashi Butalia, in her book The Other Side of Silence: Voices from the Partition of India, raises an important question about the Partition of India. She argues that there is no institutional memory of Partition: the state has not seen fit to construct memorials or mark particular places, as has been done in the case of Holocaust memorials or memorials commemorating the Vietnam War. The explanation for this lapse, she believes, is not difficult to find. She asks how Partition could be memorialized by the state without the state recognizing its own complicity. Lord Mountbatten presided over a meeting to discuss the Boundary Award on 16 August 1947. The meeting was attended by representatives of the Congress and the Muslim League. The decision of Sir Cyril Radcliffe, who chaired the three boundary commissions for Punjab, Bengal, and the Sylhet district of Assam, was made public only on 17 August 1947, when the three awards were gazetted. This was three days after Pakistan had celebrated its independence and two days after India had celebrated hers. Although Radcliffe had very little time at his disposal, the top leadersNehru, Jinnah, and Patelwanted the boundary line to be drawn before or on 15 August. In the prevailing situation, everyone suffered, but women were among the worst sufferers. Recovery of Abducted Women The circumstances surrounding the abduction of women varied. Some were separated from their families while fleeing or became lost and were subsequently picked up. Some were left behind as hostages to ensure the safe passage of their families. Others were initially given protection but were later incorporated into the families of their abductors. Aparna Basu, in her book Mridula Sarabhai: Rebel with a Cause, writes that there were instances in which women jumped into wells and rivers to escape abduction and the loss of their chastity. In Thoa Khalsa, nearly ninety women jumped into a well, and the well became so full that no more women could enter it. In Hanoli, in Mianwali district of Punjab, hundreds of women jumped into wells to escape being molested. Fathers killed their daughters; women jumped into burning houses and carried packets of poison to swallow in case they were captured. The well-known author Anees Kidwai, in her book Azadi Ki Chhaon Mein (Under the Shade of Independence), relates how the good maal (goods) could be shared among the police and the army, while the second-rate stuff would go to everyone else. A large number of abducted women were sold several times. Gandhi referred to this in a post-prayer speech. He said that some hoodlums came forward to bring back the girls if they are paid Rs. 1,000 per girl. Has this thing now become a business? To rescue these helpless women, Mridula rushed to Punjab. Her task was to recover Muslim girls who had been abducted and kept in Hindu and Sikh families, as well as Hindu and Sikh girls who had been abducted and taken to Pakistan. She was convinced that this was humanitarian work of the utmost importance and devoted the next six years of her life entirely to it. She set about the work of recovering abducted women like a tigress with cubs, wrote Y. D. Gundevia, who later became the Foreign Secretary of India. According to Gundevia, Mridula had direct access to Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Pakistans Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan. She impressed upon both leaders the urgency of beginning the recovery work. An Inter-Dominion Conference was held in Lahore on 6 December 1947. It unanimously agreed that the two countries should take steps for the recovery and restoration of abducted women, with Mridula serving as the chief social worker. All abducted women were to be restored to their respective dominions, even against their wishes. There was considerable debate over whether women who declined to leave their abductors should be allowed to remain where they were. Eventually, the views of Mridula and Begum Liaquat Ali Khan prevailed, and it was decided that such women should be evacuated to the country where their relatives had migrated. This was a complex question because it was not always clear whether women refused to return because they were afraid to say so in front of their abductors or because they feared that their families would not accept them. A joint appeal to the people of India and Pakistan to restore all abducted women was issued by the representatives of the Inter-Dominion Conference. Prominent among the signatories were Ghazanfar Ali Khan, Iftikhar Hussain Khan of Mamdot, Begum Liaquat Ali Khan, Begum Shah Nawaz Khan, Begum Bashir Ahmed, Iftikharuddin, K. C. Neogy, Swaran Singh, Rameshwari Nehru, Mridula Sarabhai, and Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay. Most of the abducted women were under 35 years of age and came from villages. After their recovery, the women were admitted to Recovered Womens Camps guarded by the police. Conditions within the camps were often appalling. When women from the Kurja camp arrived in Lahore, they looked like skeletons. Their hair and bodies were covered with ulcers and lice. Recovery and Restoration Act A bill for the recovery and restoration of abducted persons was introduced in Parliament by N. Gopalaswami Ayyangar and became an Act in December 1949. Clauses 1 and 2 of the Act emphasized that every effort should be made to recover and restore abducted women and children within the shortest possible time. The Act also stipulated that conversions of persons abducted after March 1947 would not be recognized and that such persons should be restored to their respective dominions.Mridula was the driving force behind these efforts. She explained how every possible technique was being used by abductors to defeat recovery efforts and argued that such legislation was necessary because it made the abduction of women and children a crime punishable by severe penalties. In early 1952, Mridula shifted her base to Jammu and Kashmir, where many relatives of recovered, Muslim women had migrated to Pakistan. She approached various departments of the Government of India and persuaded them to select a location in the ceasefire-line zone where recovered Muslim women could be taken to the border and reunited with their relatives from Pakistan, while Hindu and Sikh women could likewise be reunited with their families in India. Mridula succeeded in getting the Suchetgarh border opened for this humanitarian work. The recovery of abducted women and children, however, came to a grinding halt towards the end of 1953. According to Anees Kidwai, by 1954, approximately 17,000 women had been rescued from Pakistan and 20,000 from India. Many children born to abducted women were placed in orphanages. The German critical theorist Theodor W. Adorno famously declared that there could be no poetry after Auschwitz. Yet poets are among those best able to reach into the depths of human emotions and give expression to unimaginable suffering. Several years after Partition, when the first India-Pakistan mushaira (poetry gathering) was held in Karachi, the young poet Zehra Nigah came to the stage and, in a single couplet, summed up the picture of a shattered Nest: Aashiyana ki baat karte hoo, Kis zamane ki baat karte hoo? Prof Gull M Wani is a Kashmir based Political Scientist
Guwahati, August 21: The Assam Cricket Association (ACA) has announced the prize money for the inaugural Assam Premier League (APL). The winning team will receive 50 lakhs, while the runners-up will be awarded 25 lakhs. This announcement comes at a crucial time as the states premier T20 tournament enters its knockout phase. After a competitive ... Read more Assam Premier League Offers 50 Lakhs to Champions, 25 Lakhs for Runners-Up
Assam and Meghalaya Chief Ministers Agree on Joint Efforts for Peace Following Shillong Violence
Guwahati, August 21: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma discussed the recent violence in Shillong and its implications on Thursday. Both leaders agreed to work together to restore peace, trust, and normalcy between the neighboring states. Sangma mentioned that he spoke with Sarma about the violence that occurred ... Read more Assam and Meghalaya Chief Ministers Agree on Joint Efforts for Peace Following Shillong Violence
APL 2026: Dibrugarh Warriors Edge Past Nagaon Rangers By One Run; Semis Line-up Confirmed
Assam Cricket Association Stadium: Dibrugarh Warriors held their nerve in a thrilling final game of the league stage to edge past Nagaon Rangers by one run in the Assam Premier League (APL) 2026 at the Assam Cricket Association Stadium in Guwahati on Thursday. Chasing 122 for victory in a rain-shortened 18-over contest, Nagaon Rangers fell agonisingly short, finishing on 120/9 as Dibrugarh secured a dramatic win. With this result, Dibrugarh Warriors finish third on the points table with 14 points from 10 matches. Guwahati Royals top the table with 14 points and a superior net run rate, while Barpeta Braves finish second, also on 14 points. Barak Legends take the fourth and final semi-final spot with 13 points. The semifinal line-up for the inaugural season is also now confirmed, with table-toppers Guwahati Royals set to face Barak Legends. At the same time, second-placed Barpeta Braves will take on third-placed Dibrugarh Warriors for a place in the final. Both matches will take place on Friday. Asked to bat first, Dibrugarh Warriors posted 121/8 in their allotted 18 overs. Ayush Agarwal anchored the innings with an impressive 52 off 38 balls, striking three fours and two sixes. Jay Borah contributed 12, while Ranjan Bikash Das and Anurag Phukan added valuable unbeaten cameos of four and six, respectively. Nagaon Rangers' Sunil Lachit was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 4/23 from his four overs, while Bhargav Dutta picked up two wickets. In reply, Nagaon made a strong start but kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Jitu Ali produced a stunning counter-attacking knock of 38 off just 21 balls, with five fours and a six, while Anurag Talukdar scored 33 off 37 deliveries. With the chase going down to the wire, Dibrugarh's bowlers held their nerve. Ranjan Bikash Das returned excellent figures of 3/23, while Rituraj Biswas claimed 2/9 from his four overs to help complete a thrilling one-run victory. With the champions set to receive 50 lakh and the runners-up 25 lakh, the stakes are high as the tournament enters its business end. Brief scores: Dibrugarh Warriors: 121/8 in 18 overs (Ayush Agarwal 52, Jay Borah 12; Sunil Lachit 4/23, Bhargav Dutta 2/24) Brief scores: Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Result: Dibrugarh Warriors beat Nagaon Rangers by 1 run Article Source: IANS
Transporters Jorabat blockade chokes Guwahati-Shillong traffic
KSU prez, VP & gen secy sent to 14-day judicial custody
2 brothers get life term for youths murder in Cachar
Sanchi saplings take root to save Assams manuscript heritage
After Meghalaya rampage, central forces deployed; Assam transporters block entry point to state
Rs 91L foreign cigarettes seized at Srirampur, 3 held
Arunachal targeting 50% reduction in road deaths by 2030: Min
Narcotics worth Rs 27.28 crore seized in Jiribam, 6 smugglers held
Manipur students urge CM to press Centre for NRC before census
Shillong rally violence: Assam, Meghalaya CMs call for peace, dialogue; ministers to meet
Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday called for peace, restraint and dialogue after violence during a protest rally in Shillong triggered tensions and a blockade between the neighbouring states. The two chief ministers spoke after the fallout from the Khasi Students Union (KSU) Black Flag [] The post Shillong rally violence: Assam, Meghalaya CMs call for peace, dialogue; ministers to meet appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Shillong violence sparks Assam-Meghalaya road blockade
Traffic between Assam and Meghalaya was disrupted after Guwahati-based cab operators blocked National Highway-27, protesting alleged attacks on people from Assam during a Khasi Students' Union (KSU) rally in Shillong, which saw 31 vehicles damaged and several pedestrians assaulted.
Meghalaya, Assam CMs hold talks, to restore peace after border unrest
Shillong, Aug 20: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma and his Assam counterpart Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday agreed to work jointly to restore peace and normalcy following violence in Shillong on August 19 and retaliatory actions along the border. In posts on X, both leaders said designated Cabinet Ministers from the two states will [] The post Meghalaya, Assam CMs hold talks, to restore peace after border unrest first appeared on Highland Post .
Man on run after killing brother held in Sribhumi
Tourism in Meghalaya begins to take a hit after violence, govt issues helpline
Civil society group rues delay in Lanka-Moinarbond rail project, seeks PMs intervention
KSU rally violence triggers blockades, protests at Assam-Meghalaya border
Nongpoh, Aug 20: Amid escalating tensions over alleged attacks on Assam-registered vehicles and passengers here in Shillong yesterday, today saw retaliatory action against Meghalaya-registered cars trying to enter Assam. Yesterday, during the Khasi Students Union (KSU) bike rally, Assam-registered vehicles both private and commercial taxis were targetted with violence by the rallyists and [] The post KSU rally violence triggers blockades, protests at Assam-Meghalaya border first appeared on Highland Post .
AFSPA a errible law, says former Mizoram CM Zoramthanga
Wrestling legend Khali brings relief to Sivasagars flood-hit community
The Great Khali Urges Bollywood Stars and Cricketers to Support Flood Victims in Assam
Guwahati, August 20: Indian wrestler and WWE superstar The Great Khali visited Dorika Kewarta village in Assam on Thursday to assist those affected by the floods. He distributed relief materials and expressed his sorrow over the situation. In a conversation with reporters, Khali called on prominent Bollywood actors and actresses to visit Assam. He stated, ... Read more The Great Khali Urges Bollywood Stars and Cricketers to Support Flood Victims in Assam
Rijiju slams previous Cong-led Centre of neglecting border infra in Arunachal
Cuban ambassador in Tripura to mark Castros birth centenary
Assam transporters blockade Meghalaya vehicles after violence at Shillong students rally
Masked men on bikes with covered registration plates went on rampage during a Khasi Students Union rally, targeting Meghalaya government and Assam-registered vehicles and assaulting bystanders
Project Rahul Gandhi as leader to win 2029 polls: Chennithala tells opposition alliance
New Delhi/Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 20 (PTI) Keralam Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala on Thursday said the opposition alliance could win the 2029 Lok Sabha elections only if it builds its campaign around projecting Rahul Gandhi as its leader. In an exclusive interview with PTI Videos in New Delhi, Chennithala, who was actively involved in Congress organisational politics at the national level before returning to Keralam, described Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi as a visionary leader capable of giving the country a new direction. The Opposition should start campaigning for the 2029 Lok Sabha elections by projecting LoP Rahul Gandhi as
APL 2026: Sibsankar Roy's 55 Guides Barak Legends To Six-wicket Win Over Tezpur Titans
Skipper Sibsankar Roy: Barak Legends secured a six-wicket win over Tezpur Titans in match number 39 of the Assam Premier League 2026 at the ACA Stadium, Guwahati on Thursday. A composed half-century from skipper Sibsankar Roy led the way as they chased down 120 with three overs to spare. Earlier, Abdul Ajij Kuraishi was the pick of the bowlers as he bagged figures of 3/18 to bundle out Tezpur Titans for 119. Batting first, Titans got off to a shaky start as they lost Dibash Hazarika and Wasim Akram Haque in the powerplay, with the former striking 21 off 18 balls before falling in the fifth over. Nihar Deka (19) and Roshan Topno (23) chipped in with useful contributions to keep the innings ticking along with a decent partnership. Danish Ahmed top-scored with a patient 31 off 28 balls, but found little support as the middle and lower order crumbled. Titans lost five wickets for just eight runs as Abdul ran riot, getting the better of Danish Ahmed, Abhinav Choudhury and skipper Ayushman Malakar in that span. Run-outs further compounded the collapse, with Dharani Rabha and Prachurya Kakati both dismissed without scoring. Sidhartha Sarmah remained unbeaten on 6 as Tezpur Titans were bowled out for 119 in 19.1 overs. In response, Legends suffered an early scare, losing three wickets for just eight runs inside the first two overs. Ayushman Malakar struck twice, removing Bishal Saha and Subham Mandal, while Wasim accounted for Shraban Kumar Khound, leaving Legends tottering at 8/3. However, skipper Sibsankar and Yasir Ali steadied the innings with a crucial stand, adding 96 runs for the fourth wicket to wrest control of the contest. Roy struck six fours in his unbeaten 55 off 39 balls, while Ali made a composed 43 off 48 deliveries before being stumped by Roshan Topno off Abhinav Choudhury. Abhishek Deb then finished things off alongside his captain, striking an unbeaten 10 off just 7 balls to seal a six-wicket win for Barak Legends in 17 overs. In response, Legends suffered an early scare, losing three wickets for just eight runs inside the first two overs. Ayushman Malakar struck twice, removing Bishal Saha and Subham Mandal, while Wasim accounted for Shraban Kumar Khound, leaving Legends tottering at 8/3. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Tezpur Titans 119 all out in 19.1 overs (Danish Ahmed 31, Roshan Topno 23; Abdul Ajij Kuraishi 3/18, Shekhar Jyoti Barman 1/14, Jacky Ali 1/13) lost to Barak Legends 120/4 in 17 overs (Sibsankar Roy 55*, Yasir Ali 43; Ayushman Malakar 2/29, Abhinav Choudhury 1/8) by 6 wickets. Article Source: IANS
Majuli works to stir historic Bhakati Beel, Tuni River back to life
ASBB PBR Intern Recruitment 2026 - Apply Offline
Assam State Biodiversity Board (ASBB) has released the Recruitment 2026 notification for 1 PBR Intern post. The offline application process is open until 25 August 2026. Interested candidates can apply offline through the official website, asbb.gov.in.
Sensex jumps 628 points, Nifty snaps 7-day losing streak
Mumbai, Aug 20 (PTI) Benchmark equity indices bounced back on Thursday, with the Sensex climbing 628 points and the Nifty snapping its seven-day losing streak to end at 24,231.85, tracking a rally in world markets as easing global bond yields revived risk appetite. Fresh foreign fund inflows also added to the markets optimism. The 30-share BSE Sensex jumped 628.04 points, or 0.82 per cent, to settle at 77,537.72 after four days of decline. During the day, it surged 701.43 points, or 0.91 per cent, to 77,611.11. The 50-share NSE Nifty also bounced back after seven days of losses. It ended
Assam Police Turn Back 17 Bangladeshi Infiltrators, Says Himanta Biswa Sarma
Rupee settles on flat note, higher by 3 paise at 95.70 against US dollar
Mumbai, Aug 20 (PTI) The rupee pared initial gains and settled for the day with gains of just 3 paise at 95.70 against the US dollar on Thursday, as the support from the weaker dollar index was negated by elevated crude oil prices. Forex traders said while a weaker US dollar eases some depreciation pressure on the domestic currency, crude oil hovering above USD 90 would continue to keep pressure on Indias import bill. The dollar index fell to its lowest level since late May after the US Treasury announced that it would double its buyback operations for longer-dated Treasury
No home to return to: Assams flood victims face harder fight after waters recede
ICAR-CIFTs research on fish-based nutrition wins Assam governments Karmashree award
The achievement has its roots in the CIFTWorldFish collaborative research programme initiated in 2019
Gold rises Rs 264 to Rs 1.58 lakh/10g on weak US dollar
New Delhi, Aug 20 (PTI) Gold price climbed by Rs 264 to Rs 1.58 lakh per 10 grams in futures trade on Thursday, tracking firm global cues as a sharp fall in US dollar boosted the demand for bullion. On the Multi Commodity Exchange, the yellow metal futures for October delivery increased by Rs 264, or 0.17 per cent, to Rs 1,58,260 per 10 grams in a business turnover of 10,450 lots. Analysts said easing US Treasury yields and a weaker dollar supported gold prices, while persistent inflation concerns, elevated crude oil prices and geopolitical tensions continued to cap the
Meghalaya: Khasi Students Black-flag Rally Turns Violent In Shillong, Spills Into Protest In Assam
The KSUs Black Flag rally was part of its ongoing agitation over a five-point charter of demands. These include implementation of the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act, reforms in recruitment through the Meghalaya Public Service Commission and District Selection Committees, and stricter regulation of migrant workers
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma Meets PM Modi, Discusses Flood Relief Efforts
New Delhi, August 20: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday in New Delhi. He shared details of the meeting through a post on the social media platform X. In his post, Chief Minister Sarma expressed, It was a privilege to meet Prime Minister Modi in New Delhi ... Read more Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma Meets PM Modi, Discusses Flood Relief Efforts
Assam CM briefs PM Modi on flood recovery and 100-day initiatives
The News Mill
The Unsung Legend of Assamese Stage and Cinema: Remembering Bhola Kotoky
An unparalleled figure in Assamese culture, his name frequently surfaces in memory yet remains unfortunately overlooked in public discourse. While the genesis of naturalistic method acting in Assamese cinema is often traced to Chandra Narayan Baruas performance as Anangaprasad Choudhury in Atul Bordolois landmark 1978 film Kallol, the art was carried forward by Bhola Kotoky [] The post The Unsung Legend of Assamese Stage and Cinema: Remembering Bhola Kotoky appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Male tiger photographed at Assams Dihing Patkai National Park
The big cat was captured on camera during monitoring by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) in collaboration with the State forest department
A quiet channel between ICE and Iran shaped deportation flights, newly released emails show
LOS ANGELES, August 20, 2026 (AP) U.S. immigration officials worked with Iran to deport Iranians in 2025, newly released emails show, revealing a working relationship between the U.S. and Iranian governments despite tensions mounting between the countries. Hundreds of emails exchanged between U.S. immigration officials, which were obtained by the National Iranian American Council and made public Tuesday, offer the most transparent play by play yet of how the two countries worked together to arrange for more than 100 Iranians to be flown back to Iran on three separate immigration flights in September and December 2025 and January 2026.
Citizenship Rules 2026: District collectors empowered to grant citizenship
The Union Home Ministry has authorised district collectors in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, West Bengal, Assam, Tripura, Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh to process and grant citizenship through registration or naturalisation to eligible applicants
17 Illegal Infiltrators Prevented From Entering India, Says Assam CM
Guwahati, Aug 20: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday said Assam Police intercepted and prevented 17 suspected illegal infiltrators from entering India during the early hours. In a post on social media, Sarma praised the Assam Police for what he described as an alert and proactive operation. Our doors are open to those... The post 17 Illegal Infiltrators Prevented From Entering India, Says Assam CM first appeared on Northeast Today .
India sees $80 billion in flows via subsidised swap windows, RBI governor tells FE
MUMBAI, Aug 20 (Reuters) The RBI expects close to $80 billion in inflows via subsidised swap facilities opened in June as a way to bolster foreign exchange reserves, RBI governor Sanjay Malhotra said in an interview to the Financial Express newspaper on Thursday. Last week, the Reserve Bank of India decided to close one of the schemes, a discounted swap facility for dollar deposits by non-resident Indians, earlier than anticipated. Here are Malhotras key comments: Across all three schemes, we expect inflows of at least $80 billion. This reflects the strong macroeconomic fundamentals of our country and would also
Assam Congress Suspends 14 Leaders For Six Years Over Alleged Anti-Party Activities
Guwahati, Aug 20: The Assam Congress has suspended 14 leaders from Barak Valley for six years over alleged anti-party activities during the 2026 Assembly elections. The disciplinary action was carried out under the directive of Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Gaurav Gogoi, according to an order issued by APCC general secretary (Organisation) Ramanna Baruah.... The post Assam Congress Suspends 14 Leaders For Six Years Over Alleged Anti-Party Activities first appeared on Northeast Today .
No New SIMs For Users With 9 Connections? What DoT Order To Telcos Mean
DoT will tighten SIM limits, using photo-based verification to stop subscribers from exceeding nine connections, or six in J&K, Assam and Northeast. New checks begin August 23-24, with real-time integration by November 30.
August 20, 2026 (Conversation) In the United States, leading HR software company Workday is currently facing a lawsuit over its use of job screening tools powered by AI which allegedly discriminated against applicants based on factors such as age, disability and race. The company, whose hiring software is widely used by large employers around the world, has denied the allegations. The case is one of many examples of AI systems alleged to have caused discriminatory harm. When AI systems replicate and amplify discrimination, they blur the boundary between technical error and systemic injustice, turning bias into a digital harm. And
District collectors in six border states, J-K and Ladakh empowered to grant citizenship
New Delhi, Aug 20: The Union home ministry on Wednesday authorised district collectors in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, West Bengal, Assam and Tripura (except tribal areas), and Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh to grant naturalised citizenship to fit and proper applicants ordinarily residing in these regions. The government notified the Citizenship (Third Amendment) Rules 2026 on Wednesday, granting district collectors in these states and UTs the authority to process citizenship-seeking applications for egistration or naturalisation. . The district collectors in these states will replace the Empowered Committees and Designated Officers that previously held these powers. In the gazette notification, the Home Ministry has authorised district collectors in these areas to eceive, scrutinise, and dispose of such applications in accordance with the laid-down parameters. The new rules apply to citizenship-seeking applicants ordinarily residing in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, West Bengal, Assam, and Tripura, as well as the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. In Assam and Tripura, the rules specifically exclude tribal areas. The new rules designate the district collector as the competent authority to receive requests for registration or naturalisation electronically. The government has directed that all applications currently pending with those committees or District Level Committees in the specified regions be immediately transferred to the relevant collector. Upon submission, the system will generate an automated acknowledgement. The collector will then verify all submitted documents and conduct any inquiries necessary to determine the applicant's suitability. The Collector shall verify the documents submitted by the applicant, along with the application, conduct such enquiry as he considers necessary for ascertaining the suitability of the applicant, administer the oath of allegiance as specified in the Second Schedule to the Act and satisfy himself regarding the eligibility of the applicant under section 6B, the notification said. If the collector is satisfied that an applicant is a fit and proper person, they are authorised to grant Indian citizenship directly. As part of the final steps, the collector must administer the oath of allegiance as prescribed by the Act. However, the new rules maintain strict requirements for applicants to appear in person. In case an applicant fails to appear in person to subscribe the application and take the oath of allegiance despite giving reasonable opportunities, the Collector shall reject the application, said the notified rules. The government has also rescinded previous orders except as respects things done or omitted to be done before such rescission.
The violence that accompanied the Khasi Students Unions (KSUs) rally through the streets of Shillong was saddening but not surprising. While it was ostensibly meant to protest the state governments inaction regarding certain demands of the pressure group, the rally descended into wanton violence as participants targetted government vehicles, buses, Assam-registered cars with rocks, sticks, [] The post Violence on Two Wheels Saddening but not Surprising first appeared on Highland Post .
The Union Home Ministry on Wednesday authorised district collectors in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, West Bengal, Assam and Tripura (except tribal areas), and Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh to grant naturalised citizenship to fit and proper applicants ordinarily residing in these regions. The government notified the Citizenship (Third Amendment) Rules 2026 on Wednesday, 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 .
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurates Kamrup Metropolitan DC office
The News Mill
Shocking Murder of Transgender Individual in Rangia, Suspect Arrested
Guwahati, August 20: A shocking murder case has emerged from Rangia in Assams Kamrup district, where a transgender individual was brutally killed with a sharp weapon. The incident occurred near the Rangia railway station in the village of Gurkuchi on Wednesday. It is alleged that 28-year-old Sona Babu Ali murdered the transgender individual, identified as ... Read more Shocking Murder of Transgender Individual in Rangia, Suspect Arrested
Rajdhani waits for 90 gentle giants, alert forest teams help them cross tracks in Assams Hojai
SC dismisses Siddharths plea to shift Zubeen case trial outside Assam
Teacher in Dhubri held over privacy violation
CM orders to preserve Rupnagar wetland as natural water-retention space
DMC cracks down on repeat offenders as illegal stalls resurface at AMCH Campus
Prime accused denies killing 18-yr-old woman in Jorhat, claims he tried to save her
Woman teacher gets 16 stitches after German Shepherd attack during Census work in Assams Dergaon
Groundwork starts for Majuli airport; AAI team scouts sites
Assam CM inaugurates newly constructed Integrated DC Office Building of Kamrup Metropolitan District
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated a new Integrated District Commissioners Office. This modern facility in Kamrup Metropolitan District cost eighty-one point two crore rupees. The building incorporates a solar power system to promote green energy initiatives. This inauguration aligns with the governments decentralization efforts and citizen-centric administration. The Chief Minister also presented an old land record from Kamakhya Temple.
Manipur Cong backs BJP-led state govt in NRC update before census
Assam introduces new rules for coaching centres to prioritise student mental health
The News Mill
Elephants vs Rajdhani: Forest officials avert tragedy in Assam
A major tragedy was averted in Assam's Hojai district on Wednesday when forest personnel alerted the Rajdhani Express after spotting a large herd of elephants crossing a railway track, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said.
Use PPPs to bridge gaps in infra devpt: Assam chief secy to NE states
VHP Supports Assams Proposal for 10% Salary Cut for Neglecting Parents
New Delhi, August 19: Assams Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recently announced that government employees could face a 10% salary deduction if they neglect their parents. This statement has garnered support from Vinod Bansal, the national spokesperson for the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP). In a conversation with reporters, Bansal emphasized, In a country like India, ... Read more VHP Supports Assams Proposal for 10% Salary Cut for Neglecting Parents
Landslide damages three houses along NH-702A in Zunheboto
NSF flags poor quality of work, delays in NHIDCL projects across Nagaland
KSU bike rally turns violent in Shillong amid agitation over five-point charter
Assam minister reviews agriculture and irrigation schemes in Karbi Anglong
The News Mill
Meghalaya gives Rs 2 lakh ex gratia to families of five hotel fire victims
Enhanced Coordination for Elephant Safety in Assam by NFR and Forest Department
Guwahati, August 19: The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) is actively collaborating with the Assam Forest Department to ensure the safety of elephants crossing railway tracks. This initiative involves close coordination and vigilance from frontline railway staff, as reported by officials on Wednesday. Kapingjal Kishore Sharma, the Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of NFR, stated that ... Read more Enhanced Coordination for Elephant Safety in Assam by NFR and Forest Department
Sr citizens forum seeks urgent repair of highways linking Barak Valley with northeast
Mizoram panel submits draft report on impact of Kaladan project, rly link
Gauhati HC strikes down mins appellate power in Arunachal defection law
3-day exhibition in Aizawl to mark World Photography Day
Assam Minister Criticizes Congress for Failing Rhino Conservation
Guwahati, August 19: Assams Agriculture Minister, Piyush Hazarika, launched a strong attack on the Congress party regarding the conservation of Kaziranga National Park. During a press conference on Wednesday, he accused Congress of failing to protect one-horned rhinos during its tenure, while now expressing concern for Kazirangas preservation. Hazarika urged Congress to clarify its past ... Read more Assam Minister Criticizes Congress for Failing Rhino Conservation
Gold falls Rs 800 in Delhi as crude surge, geopolitical uncertainty weigh on bullion
New Delhi, Aug 19 (PTI) Gold prices declined by Rs 800 to Rs 1,58,000 per 10 grams in the national capital on Wednesday as rising crude oil rates and lingering geopolitical uncertainty weighed on investor sentiment. The yellow metal of 99.9 per cent purity had closed at Rs 1,58,800 per 10 grams on Tuesday. Silver also declined, dragged by heavy selling, tumbling Rs 5,730 to Rs 2,35,000 per kilogram (inclusive of all taxes), from the previous close of Rs 2,40,730 per kg, according to the All India Sarafa Association. Gold prices traded weak as higher crude oil rates continued uncertainty
Guwahati, August 19: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday inaugurated the newly constructed Integrated District Commissioners Office of Kamrup (Metropolitan) at Rupnagar in Guwahati. Built at a cost of 81 crore, the 12,695squaremetre facility brings key administrative and public service departments under one roof to streamline processes and make government services more accessible... The post Assam CM Himanta Inaugurates 81-Crore Integrated Kamrup (M) DC Office In Guwahati first appeared on Northeast Today .
APL 2026: Rohit Sens 96, Bastab Roys Four-for Guide Guwahati Royals To 30-run Win
Assam Premier League: Guwahati Royals kept their campaign firmly on track with a convincing 30-run victory over Charaideo Sunrisers in Match 37 of the Assam Premier League 2026 at the ACA Stadium, Guwahati, on Wednesday. Rohit Sens blistering 96 at the top of the order set up a commanding total for Royals, before Bastab Roys superb four-wicket haul helped restrict Sunrisers well short of the target. Manash Jyoti Gogoi fought hard for the chasing side with a well-made 32, but could not take his team over the line. Opting to field, Rohit Sen and Sanjay Kumar Singh put on 38 for the opening stand before Singh fell for 9 in the fifth over. Rohit then anchored the innings, sharing useful stands with captain Rishav Das (21) and Nibir Deka (30), before accelerating in the closing overs. Rohit produced some exquisite strokes to score 96 off just 57 balls, with six fours and eight sixes, before eventually falling as Royals surged to 159 for 4 in the 18th over. Nipan Deka was dismissed for a duck soon after, but a late flourish from Gunjan Jyoti Deka, who remained unbeaten on 19 off just six balls, took Royals to a formidable 182/5. Reshabh Dipak was the pick of the bowlers for Charaideo Sunrisers with 3/34, while Himanshu Saraswat and Amlan Jyoti Das picked up one wicket apiece. In response, Sunrisers made a solid start through captain Sumit Ghadigaonkar and Hrishikesh Tamuli, who put on 53 for the opening wicket. Tamuli continued positively despite losing his partner, scoring 32 off 21 balls with three fours and two sixes before falling to leave Sunrisers at 59/2. Reshabh and Soumya Kanti Paul then added some quick runs, with Paul striking 23 off just 10 balls, but regular wickets kept the required rate climbing. Manash Jyoti Gogoi fought hard in the middle overs, scoring 32 off 21 balls, but wickets continued to tumble at the other end. Bastab proved the difference for Royals, returning figures of 4/21 to wrap up the chase. Rupesh Chetry and Deepak Gohain picked up two wickets apiece, while Raj Agarwal and Nipan Deka chipped in with one wicket each. Charaideo Sunrisers were eventually bowled out for 152 in the 18th over, falling 30 runs short of the target. Manash Jyoti Gogoi fought hard in the middle overs, scoring 32 off 21 balls, but wickets continued to tumble at the other end. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Guwahati Royals 182/5 in 20 overs (Rohit Sen 96, Nibir Deka 30; Reshabh Dipak 3/34, Amlan Jyoti Das 1/19) beat Charaideo Sunrisers: 152/10 in 17.3 overs (Hrishikesh Tamuli 32, Manash Jyoti Gogoi 32; Bastab Roy 4/21, Rupesh Chetry 2/27, Deepak Gohain 2/27) by 30 runs. Article Source: IANS
Himanta Sarma shares video of forest staff stopping train for elephant herd in Assam
Himanta Sarma shares video of forest staff stopping train for elephant herd in Assam
Drug Overdose, Assault? Assam Woman Dies After Party At Friend's Home
Anwesha Saikia, from Pokamura Na-pamua village in Jorhat, had left home with a friend on Saturday. She later fell ill and was taken to Jorhat Medical College and Hospital, where she died.
Rupee falls 2 paise to settle at 95.76 against US dollar
Mumbai, Aug 19 (PTI) The rupee fell 2 paise to close at 95.76 (provisional) against the US dollar on Wednesday as a sharp rise in global crude oil prices amid heightened tensions in West Asia kept markets on edge. A sharp decline in domestic equity markets put further pressure on the local unit, while RBI intervention and foreign fund inflows lent support, according to forex traders. At the interbank foreign exchange, the rupee opened at 95.72 and traded in a very narrow range of 95.72-95.76. It eventually settled at 95.76 (provisional), down 2 paise from its previous close. The rupee
For Randeep Hooda, photography has been closely connected with the way he observes the world. His interest in the medium began with his fascination for wildlife and forests, eventually influencing how he approached filmmaking and visual composition. Hooda has often spoken about how photographing nature helped him develop a better understanding of framing. According to the actor-filmmaker, experimenting with composition through a still camera eventually became useful when he stepped behind the camera to direct. The composition that I experiment with on my camera helped me in framing the film shots, from bringing attention to certain parts of the frame to how to make an aesthetic framing, Hooda said. His interest in photography developed through his visits to forests, where he initially went simply to experience nature. Over time, carrying a camera changed the way he observed his surroundings. Earlier I used to go to the jungle and enjoy the beauty. Then I brought a camera, he recalled. That experience became particularly relevant when Hooda made his directorial debut with Swatantrya Veer Savarkar. His familiarity with light, composition and visual details through photography helped him approach filmmaking with a more considered eye. However, Hooda also believes the widespread availability of cameras has changed how photographs are perceived. With smartphones making photography accessible to almost everyone, he feels the sheer volume of images has affected their value. Now everybody gets to capture what they like, but the value of a photograph has also diminished because they are available in abundance. The reverence of that one superbly framed shot has become less, he said. Despite this, his connection with wildlife photography continues. For Hooda, spending time in nature remains an exercise in observation, where waiting for the right moment and composition can be as important as capturing it. Also Read:Randeep Hooda joins Global Sikhs relief mission to support flood-affected families in Assams Sivasagar
Tejashwi detained in Patna while taking out march over police action during NEET protests
Patna, Aug 19 (PTI) RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav was detained in Patna on Wednesday while taking out a march over the recent police action during the NEET paper leak protests in Bihar, SSP Kartikeya K Sharma said. Yadav was taken away in a police vehicle near the Income Tax office here. The government is pushing the future of students into darkness. Exam papers are getting leaked frequently, he alleged, while being put inside a police van. RJD leaders and workers, led by Yadav, the Leader of Opposition in Bihar assembly, took out the protest march to the Lok Bhavan from
Assam Adds 403.62 Sq Km Of Protected Forest Land, Boosting Wildlife Conservation
Guwahati, August 19: Assam has expanded its conservation footprint with the addition of 403.62 square kilometres of Protected Forest land, described by the state Forest Minister as the biggest such addition anywhere in India. Forest Minister Jayanta MallaBarua said the expansion will strengthen Assams forest cover, wildlife habitats and ecological corridors while creating a more... The post Assam Adds 403.62 Sq Km Of Protected Forest Land, Boosting Wildlife Conservation first appeared on Northeast Today .
103-Year-Old Woman Gives Around
A 103-year-old Assam woman donated 1.54 lakh from her lifelong savings to 77 families affected by the states floods.
Guwahati, August 19: The Assam government is set to enhance rural connectivity significantly. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced a major initiative called Assam Mela 4.0, with an investment of 10,000 crores. The aim is to extend road access to every corner of the state and connect rural areas to Assams economic growth. Sarma shared ... Read more Assam Government Launches 10,000 Crore Initiative for Rural Connectivity
Fake polling from mysterious company highlights danger of unvetted election surveys
NEW YORK, August 19, 2026 (AP) Locked in a competitive reelection race, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass declared on social media last week that a new poll was evidence that her campaign was gaining momentum. Just a few days later, the truth emerged: The poll was fabricated. The California results were among at least three polls across three states posted online this month by Median Strategies, a previously unknown organization that admitted to the Los Angeles Times on Monday that the purported results were fake. The company wrote before shuttering its website this week that it was created as
