Counterfeit notes circulation in and around Dibrugarh

DIBRUGARH, Feb 26: The vacuum created by the arrest of the counterfeit currency notes kingpin, Ranjit Kakoti at Guwahati proved to be an opportunity to another gang operating from Arunachal Pradesh. In no time this gang has been able to flood vast areas of Upper Asom with huge quantity of high denomination counterfeit currency notes.

It is learnt that one Bijit of Mohanbari area has been acting as the main agent of this gang. Offering substantial commissions, he was able to recruit a number of young persons in the Dibrugarh District.

The Dibrugarh Police has been able to arrest a number of persons from the Khowang and Dibrugarh areas on charges of dealing in counterfeit money. But as soon as these persons are released on bail, they go back to their illegal activities, as suspected by the Dibrugarh police.
On the other hand, it is learnt that one Dutta of Nitaipukhuri area and another one Rafique of Sonari are instrumental in the circulation of fake currency notes in the Sivasagar district. There are also allegation that one high ranking police official of the district is also involved in such illegal activities.

Ambulances distributed to tea gardens under NRHM

DIBRUGARH, Feb 26: Twenty ambulances were handed over to the authorities of twenty tea gardens during a brief function at Dibrugarh today.
The initiative is part of the public private partnership under the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM). A financial grant of Rs 15 lakhs is being extended by the state government to forty three gardens as part of its effort to improve medical health facilities there. The estates have already received the first installment of Rs 9 lakhs.

The Parliamentary Secretary for Health Jibantara Ghatowar, the President of Dibrugarh Zila Parishad Meena Teli and the Deputy Commissioner of Dibrugarh GK Tripathi were present on the occasion. In her speech, Ghatowar recalled her growing up years in tea garden and the deplorable state of medical facilities. While expressing her gratitude towards the Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi and Health Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma for including the tea gardens in the various schemes of the government, she said that the patients of tea gardens would be able to reach hospitals faster now that the ambulances were available.
The Parliamentary Secretary later flagged off the ambulances.

Outgoing DC recollects his days in Dibrugarh

DIBRUGARH, Feb 26: The outgoing and incumbent Deputy Commissioners of Dibrugarh, Ashutosh Agnihotri and GK Tripathi respectively, interacted with representatives of various organizations and media persons at a program organized by ‘Adda’ here today.
Recalling his stint in Dibrugarh, Agnihotri said that he tried to work and do something for the people here. He thanked the town’s people for the co-operation they had extended. The administrative officer said that he would continue to do his duty to the best of his ability. In his short address, Tripathi said that he would carry on the good work.
The program was moderated by Dr Sashikanta Saikia of Dibrugarh College while Manjit Bora delivered the welcome address.

Two ULFA militants killed in Assam gunfight

JORHAT: Two suspected ULFA militants were killed on Thursday morning in a gunfight with a joint police and CRPF team in Upper Assam's Majuli Island.


"Acting on a tip-off, the security forces launched an operation in Balijan, Asia's largest river island. The ULFA militants exchanged fire with them and they were killed on the spot," superintendent of police, Jorhat, Dipak Choudhury said.

Police had information that a seven-member group of ULFA's elite strike force 28 battalion had entered Majuli with arms for a recruitment drive, extortion and to set up an ULFA camp there, Choudhury said.

The group had come from ULFA's Myanmar camps through Nagaland, he added.

Source:http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Two-ULFA-militants-killed-in-Assam/articleshow/4193935.cms

Training on Rural Housing held at Jorhat

Training on Rural Housing held at Jorhat
:
From our CorrespondentJORHAT, Feb 23: The North East Institute of Science and Technology (NEIST), Jorhat and Central Building Research Institute (CBRI) of Roorkee, Uttarakhand jointly organised a two day Training-cum-Demonstration programme on "Appropriate Rural Housing Technologies" under CSIR-RSWNET Rural development programme and Construction agencies, Engineers, Executives, NGOs and Gram Panchayats to adopt suitable technologies for the construction of rural houses. The training includes the Technology demonstration on Pre-cast Stone Masonary and Cement Concrete Block, Pre-cast Roofing component namely planks and joists, L-panels, Brick panels, Pre-cast concrete and Ferrocement Products, Earth Quake Resistant Features, improved Mud-house Technologies namely plinth protection, non-erodable mud plaster, fire retardant thatch roof and rural Sanitation and Waste –Water Disposal system. The faculties for the training were drawn from NEIST– Jorhat and CBRI, Roorkee. A total of 47 participants including executives, assistant executives and junior engineers of DRDA, different development blocks at Jorhat and adjoining localities, Jorhat sub-division (Irrigation department), department of civil engineering, POWIET, PHE division, Axom Sarba Siksha Abhijan Mission, PWD, GE army, NEIST, Jorhat and SCSTE, Meghalaya participated in the training programme. The training was inaugurated by Dr PG Rao, Director of NEIST, Jorhat yesterday. In his speech, he emphasized on the need for organizing such type of trainings in all the other States of the North East Region associating CBRI of Roorkee, local science and technology departments and Rural housing agencies.

HAD Minister launches RGGVY Scheme

: DIPHU, Feb 22: With a view to provide rural electrification in the hill districts of Karbi Anglong and NC Hills, an ambitious project under the banner of Rajiv Gandhi Gramin Vidyutkaran Yojana (RGGVY) has been launched in the region. Khorsing Engti, Minister, HAD, Veterinary and Bidya Sing Engleng, Parliamentary Secretary, Government of Assam jointly inaugurated the scheme at ASEB power house near Diphu on February 19.On the occasion, the inaugural function was held under the presidentship of Joyram Engleng, Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC). Khorsing Engti, HAD Minister, who inaugurated the scheme said that the people of the hills region living in the far-flung areas would get electricity facility through the RGGVY Scheme. He also said that all the BPL families living in the region would be given electricity connection and have to pay only consumption charge. He also revealed the government has already allocated Rs 35 crore for implementing the RGGVY Scheme in the region. Executive Members of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council including Bidya Sing Rongpi, Pradip Rongpi, Longki Timung and Hemari Teron attended the function as invited guests. SC Nath, CGM of Central Assam Electricity Distribution Company (CAEDC) and other officials of Electricity Department also attended the function.Addressing the gathering, Bidya Sing Engleng said that the RGGVY Scheme would provide electricity in every nook and corner of the district. He said that the people of the district would be benefited through the scheme. He further urged the people of the district to cooperate the authority for proper implementation of the scheme. SC Nath, CGM, ACEDC informed about the RGGVY Scheme. He also said that altogether 1,380 villages have no electricity facilities and 433 villages have partial facilities in the hills districts. To implement the scheme, two new 33 KB sub-stations will be installed at two different venues like Bokuha and Umpanal of Karbi Anglong district. Altogether 31,504 BPL families of the district will be provided with free electricity connection through the scheme, said the CMD. He also mentioned that more than 5,000 transformers would be set up at different places of the district for proper implementation of the scheme, stated in a press release.

SSB organizes Samajik Chetna Abhiyan

: BONGAIGAON, Feb 18: The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) apart from guarding the Indo-Bhutan international border is presently engaged in various welfare activities particularly for the people living in the remote and far-flung areas where medicines and other facilities are not available.
With this mission, Area Organizer of the SSB, Kokrajhar organized a three-day-long Samajik Chetna Abhiyan (SCA) basically on the theme of national integration, communal harmony, evil effects of drugs, health and hygiene and others.

The programme was formally inaugurated by Majendra Narzary, MLA, Gossaigaon at Saraibil Community Hall on February 12 at 11.30 am which was attended by local leaders, students and a huge crowd among others. Sulekha Das, Area Organizer, Kokrajhar and other officers including a medical officer and a veterinary doctor also attended the SCA function.

During the publicity drive, the SSB covered Sarabil and it’s surrounding villages, and with the help of SSB doctor and paramedical staff treated 353 patients and distributed medicines free of cost. Again, with the assistance of SSB veterinary doctor and para-veterinary staff treated and vaccinated ailing cattle and distributed veterinary medicines free of cost.

The three-day-long programme was also marked by photo exhibition, cultural programme, volleyball competition and other games for school children apart from film shows and others.
The closing function of SSB SCA was held at Saraibil Community Hall on February 14, while Rava Raja of Saraibil PHC graced the function as the chief guest. Prizes were also given away to winners of various competitions. TP Mang, Circle Organizer, SSB Saraibil delivered the vote of thanks. This was stated in a press release.

10 TVs, 15 bicycles distributed in Hamren sub-division

10 TVs, 15 bicycles distributed in Hamren sub-division
: From our CorrespondentDONKAMOKAM, Feb 19: As election is stated to be held in the next couple of months, the Congress is well ahead in poll campaigning in Karbi Anglong. Congress (Mandal) held a meeting at Rongkroi ME school playground under Hamren sub-division where Dr Mansing Rongpi, MLA 20th Baithalangso LAC attended as chief guest and distributed 10 nos of televisions, along with DTH and at the same time 15 nos of bicycles were distributed to 15 beneficiaries. Sing Teron MAC and local EM KAAC presided over the meeting. The sets were distributed from the scheme of Asom Bikash Yojna (ABY). The other guests includes SDO (civil) i/c Hemanta Raj Kumar of Hamren, Chin Terong Dev, Block, BDO, Nirola Phangchoi, Ranjit Teron, Sukumar Sangma, president Karbi Anglong Garo Union and many more.The MLA as the chief guest urged the beneficiaries not to use TV as only entertainment but to focus mostly on present worldly affairs. The distribution is first of its kind in Hamren and mostly rural people will be benefitted form it.

Monthly news magazine to be inaugurated
: Our Staff CorrespondentDIBRUGARH, Feb 19 : The pre-inaugural issue of the monthly news magazine "Bartayan", published under the auspices of Sonowal Kachari Students' Union (SKSU) will be inaugurated by noted writer Gagan Chandra Sonowal, at a meeting to be held at the Laxminath Bezbaruah Bhavan here on February 27. Former president of the Asom Xahitya Xabha, Dr Nagen Saikia and former lecturer of Dibrugarh College and noted journalist, Sarat Barkakoty will grace the function as honoured guests. Informing this, the editor of Bartayan, Ratan Hazarika, told this reporter that the magazine would cover various aspects of Socio-political developments besides review of news and cultural activities of the region.

Demand for withdrawal of parking fee

Demand for withdrawal of parking fee
: From a CorrespondentJORHAT, Feb 19: The Managing Committee of the Jananayak Debeswar Sarma Civil Hospital here has sought 10 days time to take a decision on whether they will withdraw the parking fee which has been levied inside the compound of the Hospital since February 16. Members of the Jorhat Regional Students’Union (JRSU) gheraoed the Superintendent of the Hospital and demanded immediate withdrawal of the levy yesterday.The levy has raised public ire ever since it was imposed. At a time when Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi and State Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma are doing their utmost to streamline the medical sector and have taken steps to introduce a slew of schemes to benefit the poor, this levy inside the Civil Hospital premises can be described as a contradiction.This worship of Mammon by the Management Committtee headed by Jorhat MP Bijoy Krishna Handique, at a hospital which has been established with the express purpose to give treatment free of cost has raised the hackles of the people.The parking fee is Rs 10 for four-wheelers, Rs 5 for two-wheelers and Rs 2 for cycles.The Superintendent reiterated that the decision to levy a parking fee was taken with Handique in the chair at a meeting held recently and if the decision is to be revoked it will have to be done with another emergent meet of the Management Committee in the next few days.A person was overheard to say that this move by Handique may lose him some votes in the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections to which the MP is hoping to win for the sixth time. “It proves without saying the double-faced standard being adopted by the Congress government,” he said adding “give with one hand and take with the other.” It may be mentioned that in the neighbouring district of Sivasagar this levy has not been imposed.

Army provides sheds for weekly market at Guna Nagar

TINSUKIA, Feb 19: On February 17, 11th Battalion of the Sikh Light Infantry of Dah Division provided sheds for the weekly market at Guna Nagar for the people of Chowkham Circle.The inauguration ceremony was attended by the local civil officials, people of the market committee, gaon burahs, shopkeepers and senior citizens of the area. As per Army spokesperson, the weekly market at Guna Nagar is a major attraction for the people of Chowkham Circle as people from all villages of Chowkham are dependent on this weekly market for purchase of items for day to day activities.So far Army has provided X-ray Machine at Community Health Centre, Namsai, a Computer laboratory at Government Secondary School, Namsai, hand pumps in various villages of Namsai Sub Division and organized a Sub Divisional level football tournament as a part of Operation Sadbhavna.He further added the Army is providing Solar Lights in some remote villages of Namsai Sub Division. He said that Army will continue working towards improvement of local infrastructure in future as well as in all areas of needs of the common people. The efforts of the Army towards improving the living conditions of locals were highly appreciated by one and all present on the occasion. A high level of mutual trust and comrade co-operation was noticed between civilians and Army.

NDFB warns against attack on its men

KOKRAJHAR, Feb 18: National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) today warned the surrendered NDFB cadres and BRTF to stay away from attacking its members and said that it would resort to take retaliatory measures if further such incidents occur in near future.

Speaking to the Media at Habrubari Public Relation Office (PRO) of the NDFB today, Serfanguri General Head quarter of second Battalion of the outfit training officer R Daokha said that two NDFB cadres— Angustin Basumatary B Onfaor (32) of Oxiguri, Chirang and Suresh Basumatary (30) of Singimari, Kokrajhar were brutally tortured by a group of surrendered NDFB and BRTF men at Khagrabari under Kachugaon PS on Monday at around 2.30 pm while they were moving towards Bhaoraguri. He said the NDFB members were take away at gun point to their Kachugaon and Gamba camps.

R Daokha said that NDFB entered into ceasefire with Government of India with an aim to bring peaceful solution to their problems and in that case, the ex-BLT and other organizations should have co-operated but instead of doing so, they are always trying to derail the peace process. He said their cadres were attacked by SNDFB and BRTF in a cowardly manner.

Replying to a question, Daokha said that their cadres had no arms with them while they were being tortured but the attackers forcibly gave them arms to create drama. He also said that NDFB never used arms since it entered into ceasefire. We are monitoring the role of Government of India and Government of Asom as to how far are they sincere towards solutions of NDFB imbroglio,” The NDFB leader also warned the SNDFB and Ex-BLT to stop all kinds of attack on its cadres or it will take retaliatory measures.

Injured NDFB cadres— Angustin and Suren while interacting with the Media at RN Brahma Civil Hospital said they were on their way towards Bhalaguri in a wedding reception party while the surrendered NDFB and BRTF cadres stopped them and tortured inhumanly. They also alleged that the attackers threatened to shoot them but later handed them over to the Kachugaon police. source: the sentinel assam

Attempt to abduct BPPF workers foiled

KOKRAJHAR, Feb 18: The Bodoland Peoples’ Progressive Front (BPPF) today strongly condemned the attempt to abduct its two workers by BPF youths at Kachugaon market on Sunday last and urged upon the district administration to maintain law and order strictly and arrest the culprits.
In a press release, secretary of Kachugaon Anchalik BPPF Dhananjay Narzary said that a group of BPF youths coming in a Maruti van AS-16A/2973 tried to abduct two BPPF workers- Karen Basumatary and Birdao Basumatary of Daimuguri, while they were having tea in a restaurant near the PWD office. The saved themselves from the menace by run out. An FIR was lodged at Kachugaon PS by BPPF in this connection.

SSB organizes Samajik Chetna Abhiyan

: BONGAIGAON, Feb 18: The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) apart from guarding the Indo-Bhutan international border is presently engaged in various welfare activities particularly for the people living in the remote and far-flung areas where medicines and other facilities are not available.
With this mission, Area Organizer of the SSB, Kokrajhar organized a three-day-long Samajik Chetna Abhiyan (SCA) basically on the theme of national integration, communal harmony, evil effects of drugs, health and hygiene and others.

The programme was formally inaugurated by Majendra Narzary, MLA, Gossaigaon at Saraibil Community Hall on February 12 at 11.30 am which was attended by local leaders, students and a huge crowd among others. Sulekha Das, Area Organizer, Kokrajhar and other officers including a medical officer and a veterinary doctor also attended the SCA function.

During the publicity drive, the SSB covered Sarabil and it’s surrounding villages, and with the help of SSB doctor and paramedical staff treated 353 patients and distributed medicines free of cost. Again, with the assistance of SSB veterinary doctor and para-veterinary staff treated and vaccinated ailing cattle and distributed veterinary medicines free of cost.

The three-day-long programme was also marked by photo exhibition, cultural programme, volleyball competition and other games for school children apart from film shows and others.
The closing function of SSB SCA was held at Saraibil Community Hall on February 14, while Rava Raja of Saraibil PHC graced the function as the chief guest. Prizes were also given away to winners of various competitions. TP Mang, Circle Organizer, SSB Saraibil delivered the vote of thanks. This was stated in a press release.

BCPL to be commissioned by 2012

DIBRUGARH, Feb 18: The much awaited Assam Gas Cracker Project – Brahmaputra Cracker and Polymer Limited (BCPL) will be commissioned by 2012. Power and Industry Minister Pradyut Bordoloi disclosed this at a press meet held here yesterday at the local circuit house.
The minister paid a visit to the gas cracker site at Lepetkata, 10 kms away from Dibrugarh, in the morning and inspected the progress of work. He later interacted with representatives of the stakeholders in the project at a review meeting yesterday.

The Commissioner of Industry for the State Government Rabi Kapoor, Union Chemicals and Fertilizers Director S Bhujabal and Chief Operator of the BCPL JKS Teotia, amongst others, attended the meeting.

Briefing mediapersons, Bordoloi expressed satisfaction over the progress of works done so far and hoped that the project would be completed within the scheduled period. He disclosed that contracts worth Rs 780 crore had already been awarded to local contractors for construction of the project during the current financial year and an additional amount of Rs 290 crore would be released for other contracts within March this year.

Referring to the prospect of employment generation in the down stream industries, Bordoloi disclosed that a plastic park would be set up at Tinsukia. Meanwhile, he said, the Tinsukia district administration has already initiated the land acquisition process for setting up of the same.

The minister stated that the State Government had directed the BCPL authorities to engage more local youths, specially those who have successfully completed the diploma courses from National Institute of Construction, besides hiring engineering graduates of the State. “The BCPL will soon induct 60 fresh and 20 experienced engineering graduates,” he added.
Bordoloi stated that the contractors engaged in the construction works were also asked to engage local youths. However, the contractors could engage skilled labourers from outside the State for some specific jobs.

The minister made it clear that the government would not spare anyone who puts hindrances either in the form of intimidation or calling bandh in the construction of the project. When queried about the Steamer Ghat Road, it is said that BCPL would repair the road under its corporate social responsibility.

Dissolution of interim Deori Autonomous Council demanded

JORHAT, Feb 18: The All Assam Deori Students’ Union (AADSU) has demanded the immediate dissolution of the interim Deori Autonomous Council and holding of council elections. The interim council has been in place since 2005.

In a memorandum submitted to Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi here on Monday, AADSU alleged massive corruption by executive members of the council and demanded a high-level inquiry into the anomalies and expulsion of the culprits. It further demanded holding of the council elections immediately and implementation of all the terms and conditions in the accord signed between the council and government when the council was formed.

AADSU said that intense politicizing was on by a particular member to break the unity of the Deori populace and try to retain power by adopting the British policy ‘divide and rule’. AADSU warned the member against this kind of behaviour and asked the Deori population to stand united against these kinds of elements who were treading this path for their vested interest.
The AADSU further alleged that a few members who were involved in large-scale graft were trying to down the voices of those, who were bringing these to light and trying to weaken their case by isolating them within the Deori society.

Vast sums of money sanctioned for developmental works had been siphoned off and only a probe could unearth the extent of corruption, the memo said. The memorandum was submitted by AADSU chief advisor Lalit Kumar Deori, AADSU president Keshav Deori and general secretary Hari Gobind Deori.

The jurisdiction of the Deori Autonomous Council is spread over parts of Jorhat, Sivasagar, Dibrugarh, Tinsukia, Lakhimpur, Dhemaji, Jonai, Sadiya and Gohpur districts and Guwahati.
The Deori population is about 2.5 lakh.

Diesel crisis affects agriculture

HATSINGIMARI, Feb 16: Kalapani along with its adjacent vast agricultural areas under Mankachar revenue circle plays a significant role in record amount of paddy production during three different seasons every year in the entire South Salmara-Mankachar subdivision in Dhubri district. The important area from the point of agriculture has been going through an uneasy phase due to diesel crisis to run the pump sets, on which the IR-8 paddy scheme is completely dependant in this season. There is only one diesel depot at Mankachar in the entire subdivision which has allegedly failed to supply the adequate quantity of diesel, a dire need of the farmers. Basically, the peasants are poor, who have a little capacity to stock the required quantity of diesel buying it from outside the subdivision to run their pump sets for the scheme they undertake. A pump set consumes a litre of diesel in an hour and it requires 8 to 10 litres a day. Four months of running a pump at regular basis is required to supply water to 20 bighas of land before harvesting. To stock such a huge quantity of diesel in advance is not an easy task for a poor farmer.Some of the farmers have expressed concern over their prevailing plight and wished the government to supply diesel to them at control rate to encourage cultivation at a large scale. They also said Kalapani area, being a big producer of paddy, have all the moral right to demand for a diesel depot at Kalapani.

Transfer of cases from Udalguri to Mangaldai ordered

TANGLA, Feb 16: Registrar General of Gauhati High Court PK Saikia has sent an urgent communication through fax/speed post to the District and Sessions Judge, Darrang, Mangaldai asking to transfer the cases of Dalgaon police station of Darrang district pending in the courts at Udalguri of Udalguri district to the courts at Darrang’s Mangaldai. “The matter may kindly be treated as most urgent”, it is stated in the communication vide No H C vii 12/2009/1043/A dated February 6, 2009. It is mentionable that since long past, the cases of Dalgaon police station of Darrang district have being forwarded to and tried at Udalguri courts and on the other hand, the cases of Tangla PS, Paneri PS and parts of Kalaigaon PS and Khairabari PS falling under Udalguri district have being forwarded to and tried at the courts at Mangaldai, Darrang in spite of the fact that Udalguri and Darrang are separate districts. It is now expected that with the shifting of Dalgaon police station cases from Udalguri courts to Mangaldai courts, the cases of Udalguri district’s Kalaigaon, Khairabari, Tangla and Paneri police stations pending in the courts at Mangaldai, would soon also be transferred to the courts at Udalguri for greater public interest.Copies of the Registrar General’s communication have been sent to the LR and Secretary to the government of Assam Judicial Department, Dispur, the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Darrang, Mangaldai, the Sub-Divisional Judicial Magistrate, Udalguri, the secretary, Udalguri Bar Association and the secretary, Mangaldai Bar Association.

Gogoi inaugurates rural electrification scheme

JORHAT, Feb 16: Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi inaugurated Rajiv Gandhi Rural Electrification Project for Jorhat district at a function held at Vidyut Bhavan here this evening. As many as 714 villages under eight development blocks of the district will be covered under the project. Power connections will be made available to a total 36,041 below-poverty line families. The total sum earmarked for the district stands at Rs 37.19 crore.Speaking at the inauguration function, the Chief Minister said that no development was possible without the easy availability of power. The per capita consumption of power is the index of the development of a State, he added.“As power is the key to the solution of all problems, the State Government has accorded top priority to improving generation and transmission,” Gogoi maintained. He claimed that the Congress Government has improved the infrastructural scene in the State during its tenures. The Chief Minister sought the cooperation of the people in upgrading infrastructure. The function was chaired by Jorhat MLA Rana Goswami. Jorhat Deputy Commissioner Ms LS Changsan also addressed the gathering. Managing Director of Upper Assam Electricity Distribution Compnay Limited DK Dutta delivered the welcome address. Dutta said that the project would be completed within 18 months.Press adviser to the Chief Minister DK Borah, Mariani MLA Rupjyoti Kurmi, Titabor SDO (Civil) Kavita Padmanabhan and other top ASEB officials were present at the function.Earlier, the Chief Minister attended the platinum jubilee function of Central Club. He advanced a sum of Rs 5 lakh for its development.

Parties not in a haste for Kokrajhar candidate

KOKRAJHAR, Feb 13: As the parliamentary election is coming near, the Congress, AGP, AUDF, BJP and CPI-CPM, etc are seen hasty for selection of candidates and seat-sharing among the like-minded parties. But in case of Kokrajhar seat no party other than Hagrama Mohilary-led BPF is yet to announce its candidates.

One of the major forces of Bodoland - BPPF is also yet to announce its candidate. Sources from the party said the final decision has not arrived between the AGP and BPPF for Kokrajhar seat causing delay in announcement. On the other hand, the BPF has already declared sitting MP S K Bwisumuthiary as their candidate.

Speaking to The Sentinel, the organizing secretary of AASAA Bosco Charmaco said that the student body will play a vital role in the forthcoming election but things have not been finalized as yet. He said that discussion was going on regarding the fielding or “sharing” with other parties but the clear picture will come only after February 15 next.

Meanwhile, the AAKRSU also are yet to decide their stand on parliamentary election. Though informal reports of AAKRSU revealed to go against the BPF candidate S K Bwismuthiary yet it seems to delay to anounce it’s decision.

'Stone man' bludgeons sixth pavement dweller to death in Guwahati

GUWAHATI: Police in Assam are in a quandary with a mysterious "stone man" claiming his sixth victim — a pavement dweller — in less than two months in the state's main city of Guwahati, officials said Saturday.

Even as a thriller based on the unsolved serial killings of pavement dwellers in Mumbai in 1983 hit the screens Friday, the police recovered a badly battered body of a young beggar from outside a Hindu temple in Guwahati.

"The victim, a pavement dweller or could be a beggar, was hit on the back of the head with a blunt object and he died of profuse bleeding," said Debajit Deuri, additional police chief of Guwahati.

The modus operandi is almost the same — the mysterious attacker targets the victim before dawn, bludgeoning him to death by hitting him with a stone like object on the back of the head and the ears.

"The pattern is similar, with the attacker targeting his victim sleeping on pavements or in the open either alone or with one or maximum two more people," a Crime Branch detective said.

"We picked up few people on suspicion during night raids but we are yet to get any conclusive leads in nabbing the serial killer who probably uses stones or some blunt implement for the attack," another police investigator said.

Police are looking into various angles, including the possibility of the serial killings inspired by superstitious beliefs.

"There are several theories doing the rounds, including some saying that superstition could be a reason that was driving the serial killer to commit the murders silently," the Crime Branch official said.

Experts are not ruling out the possibility of the murders being committed by a psychopathic killer.

"It is very difficult to pinpoint the reasons, but then definitely there is some criminal propensity with the attacker probably suffering from some mental disorder and extremely paranoid about being killed by beggars or pavement dwellers and hence going about finishing them off," said Jayanta Das, a well-known psychiatrist.

Soruce: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Guwahati-stoneman-claims-6th-victim/articleshow/4128294.cms

School gutted

School gutted
Correspondent RANGIYA, Feb 11 – A devastating fire broke out in the wee hours of February 2 last engulfing almost all the furnitures of classrooms, office rooms, besides other valuables of the Rangiya TT College (RTTC) Model School in the locality’s Ward No-5, damaging properties worth nearly Rs 30 lakh. A panic situation ensued among the local residents of the area following the sudden breaking out of the major fire which took the fire brigade personnel nearly three hours to douse the latter.

Call for pay parity with Central Government employees

Call for pay parity with Central Government employees

JORHAT, Feb 11: The State Government should pay salaries to its employees on a par with that paid to Central Government employees. Demanding this at the open session of All Assam Ministerial Officers’ Association held at Jorhat District Library auditorium here today, president of Sadou Asom Karmachari Parishad (SAKP) Pradip Bora maintained that the employees would extend support to the State Government of the day provided the latter was sympathetic towards the needs of the former. Press adviser to the Chief Minister Debo Kumar Bora, who released the souvenir Kalam published on the occasion of the two-day 80th State-level convention of All Assam Ministerial Officers’ Association, said that the “elected and appointed democrats” should work in mutual harmony. The problems between the Government and employees have to be resolved in a give-and-take spirit, he stated. Bora underlined the schemes undertaken by the Tarun Gogoi-led State Government “for the welfare of the employees.” SAKP general secretary Basab Kalita and other office-bearers of employees’ bodies were present at the open session chaired by president of All Assam Ministerial Officers’ Association Tanu Krishna Goswami. Former organizing secretary of All Assam Ministerial Officers’ Association Hem Barua was felicitated in the today’s meet.

Government should take initiative to improve education: Tapati

Government should take initiative to improve education: Tapati

GUWAHATI, Feb 11: A press meet was held at the ACTA office in Guwahati on the problems of higher education in Asom today. All India College and Universities Teacher Mahasangha vice president and Bombay University College Teacher Union general secretary Dr Tapati Mukhopadhya spoke on the occasion regarding various problems relating to higher education in Asom. She said, as the higher education system of the State is not developing and as the Government is not taking the initiative to improve it, students are left with very little choice but to go out of the state to pursue further studies. She also said that it is the duty of the Government to lay emphasis on the development of infrastructure of colleges. In her speech, she spoke on the deteriorating scenario of the schools and colleges in the rural areas where attendance rate is decreasing day by day due to absence of teachers.

Tea Auction Centre to be set up in Dibrugarh

Tea Auction Centre to be set up in Dibrugarh

DIBRUGARH, Feb 11: It is the cup that literally cheers; and Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts have the largest number of tea estates in the State and the country as well which are to take its rightful place in the tea map of India – a place usurped up by Guwahati – as soon as the much awaited Tea Auction Centre set up and opened for business in Khanikar in the periphery of Dibrugarh town.Disclosing the selection of Khanikar for the proposed tea auction centre, Water Resource Labour and Employment Minister Prithibi Majhi, in who’s constituency Khanikar is located, told The Sentinel the district administration has already been instructed to find out and acquire lands so that the centre could be set up at the earliest.On being asked the reasons for the delay in setting up the centre in Dibrugarh despite of the fact that Dibrugarh district alone has the largest number of tea gardens and a substantial number of small tea growers, Majhi told The Sentinel whatever logistic and infrastructural hurdles were there in the past have been removed now. The upgradation and expansion of Dibrugarh Airport at Mohanbari, establishment of extensive railway links including the proposed Bogibeel Bridge and the upgradation of road communication systems as well as the development of the hospitality industry in the area now make Dibrugarh the prime choice for setting up of the auction centre and other organizations concerning trade and commerce.The local planters, whom this reporter had contacted, are all enthused about the new developments. They are of the view that the produce sold at site, which is the norm worldwide, will remove the time lag and will also make for lowering of costs which will ultimately benefit the customers.

Now, Gorkhas raise their own force

NEW DELHI: Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM), an organisation that spearheads the separate Gorkhaland agitation, is training young men and women to fight for their cause.

Times Now travelled to the foothills of Darjeeling and found that GJM is raising its force to fight for their statehood.

A thousand-strong force of young men and women are being trained to take the fight for an independent Gorkhaland to the next level in a 30-km wide area called the Chicken's neck in the foothills of Darjeeling. It is here that the misguided youth are being brainwashed into believing in the Gorkhaland cause as a big threat to India's security.

"The security deployment is not enough and you can see openly these camps are being conducted and they are roaming around without fear," Retd Col Ramesh Allay, Commander-in-chief of the Gorkha Land Personnel, the front of the GJM responsible for recruitment.

In an open challenge to the government and police administration, about 50 retired army officers and jawans are training the youth for the fight in the camps of hate and violence. Though they are not being trained in use of arms, they will do so when the time comes.

With more young people joining the ranks, the intensity of violence has increased with ethnic clashes threatening peace in this volatile region.

Source: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Now-Gorkhas-raise-their-own-force/articleshow/4116083.cms

Triangular contest likely for AJYCP president post

Triangular contest likely for AJYCP president post

: From our Correspondent
MANGALDAI, Feb 9: The 15th biennial conference of Assam Jatiyatabadi Yuba-Chatra Parishad (AJYCP), a large youth students’ organization of the State, has begun from today at Golaghat with a three-day programme, which is going to witness a triangular contest for the post of its presidentship.
As per the constitution of the organization that has been raising their voice prominently for introduction of dual citizenship and full autonomy for the State since its foundation in 1979, its present Putul Dutta will give way to a new president in this conference.
Meanwhile, the names of three prominent activists have been proposed for the post of president. They are advisor Dwipendra Narayan Konwar, vice presidents Kamal Bharali and Biraj Talukdar.
Prominent journalist and writer Dwipendra Narayan Konwar actively involved with the organization since its foundation has been able to get support from a good number of delegates from various district committees for his organizational skill and excellence with devotion. Two books in Asomiya already published by Dwipendra Narayan Konwar Purna Shwayatwa Shashanar Prastab (a proposal for full autonomy) and Jatiyatabadar bhittit Samyabad (Communism on the basis of Nationalism) have received a good response from the readers of the conscious circle. He is also going to release another book titled Dual Citizenship and the Foreigners Problem in Assam at the conference of AJYCP on February 10. Though both Kamal Bharali and Biraj Talukdar are going to offer a strong contest for the post of the president, Dwipendra Narayan Konwar is likely to come out with the winning smile.
On the other hand, the delegate session is likely to grant extension of another term to its Secretary Manoj Barua for his efficiency shown during his last tenure in office. At the same time present president Putul Dutta or present chief adviser Dilip Patgiri are likely to be nominated as the chief adviser. A total of 5,000 delegates from various district committees of the organization have already reached Golaghat to take part in the conference.
In view of the ensuing Parliamentary poll, the conference of the AJYCP has been termed as of much significance as the both the Congress and the AGP is keeping a sharp eye on the formation of the new committee of the organization.

Jintu Vihar inaugurated

GUWAHATI, Feb 8: GOC 101 Area, Shillong, Major General K S Sethi, SM today inaugurated Jintu Vihar residential accommodation complex for 212 Army Personnel comprising of 34 JCOs and 178 Other Ranks (OR) quarters in a simple ceremony at Narangi Army Campus. The complex has been named as JINTU VIHAR in honour of Late Capt Jintu Gogoi, VrC of 17 GARH RIF, who made the supreme sacrifice in a most conspicuous act of bravery and devotion to duty on the night of 29/30 Jun 1999 during OP VIJAY in Kargil Sector, J & K. Jintu Vihar, which has a total of 21 Blocks containing 212 married quarters has been built at a cost of approximately 21 Crores. With the inauguration of the Jintu Vihar Complex, the Narangi Army Garrison can now boast of excellent housing facilities for Army JCOs and Jawans.

Probe ordered into detention of CM at Patharighat

MANGALDAI, Feb 8: The state government has taken the unexpected detention of the Chief Minister, Tarun Gogoi by as many as three thousand activists of Darrang Zila Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (DZKMSS) at Patharighat in Darrang district on January 28 last seriously and ordered for a high level enquiry over the incident. The state government vide an order has instructed JSL Basava, Commissioner Lower Assam Division to conduct the enquiry and to submit the report immediately. It may be recalled here that the Chief Minister, Tarun Gogoi while on his way to offer floral wreath at the memorial tomb constructed in memory of 140 peasant martyrs at the historic Patharighat in Darrang district on that day, the activists of DZKMSS keeping the police and civil intelligence totally in the dark, took out a procession from Dighirpara to Patharighat covering a distance of about 8 kms and offered floral wreath at the memorial tomb before the Chief Minister could have offered it ceremonially. Though the activists of the DZKMSS peacefully observed their pre-scheduled programme, yet they raised slogans before the Chief Minister raising their voice against the alleged unabated corruption in the name of NREG schemes and demanding solution to the long felt problems of the farmers. Much to the embarrassment of the Chief Minister as well as of the police and civil administration officials, the Chief Minister’s convoy got stuck on the road for about fifteen minutes while the activists of the DZKMSS were returning.

Deosal temple building inaugurated

JAGIROAD, Feb 7: The new building of the traditional Deosal temple, 6 kms east from here was inaugurated by Gova princess Rajita Konwari and president of the temple construction committee Munin Borthakur on February 4 last.
The 65-foot high crown of the temple has been constructed at an cost of Rs 4 lakh. The foundation stone of the new building of the temple was laid way back in 2005.
Earlier, Jur Singh Bordoloi, secretary of the construction committee, explained in detail the construction expenditure of the temple building. Local MLA and Parliamentary Secretary Vivekananda Dolai has announced the temple venue as tourists spot. The opening session was also attended by the Gova king Dipsing Deo Raja, among others.

Elephant menace worries villagers

JORHAT, Feb 7: The wild elephants from Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary have created havoc in the adjoining areas for the last four days, destroying about 14 huts in tea garden labour line and also damaging the bungalow of the manager of Murmuriya Tea Estate.
The Forest Department sources said that the elephants had been moving around Murmuriya, Sarupathar and Katonibari area at night. A huge tusker broke into the houses of Lilawati, Lakhimani and Bijit and ate up all the foodgrain stocks. It later broke into the kitchen of the manager of Murmuriya Tea Estate and damaged the ceiling and a wall. A Forest Department source said that recently two elephants broke a number of houses in the adjoining villages. The District Forest Officer had visited the areas to assess the damage.
The source said that the 21 sq km Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary was too small to hold the herd numbering more than 25 elephants. "At present only about 2 or 3 elephants can survive in such a small habitat and if 25 elephants inhabit the area, they would obviously have to forage for food outside the forest," the source added. "Moreover, elephants are drawn to the smell of hooch brewed illegally being made in the villages and prefer the taste of something different," the sources further said.
The mushrooming of small tea gardens with protective fencing also hampers the wild elephants from wending their way up to the Naga Hills and are contained within a limited space, thus forcing them to search for food within that area.
Recently, the Forest Department paid more than Rs 11 lakh as compensation to villagers who had been the victims of elephant depredations, but the villagers are fed up with living with the constant fear of being attacked by these pachyderms and crave for a permanent solution to the problem.

Books released in Sonowal Kachari conference

DIBRUGARH, Feb 7: Several books were released on the second day of the district general conference of Sonowal Kachari organizations at District Library here today. In the meeting chaired by principal of Tengakhat Higher Secondary School Mohan Sonowal, Dr Jitu Ranjan Barua of Dibrugarh University released the mouthpiece of the district unit of Sonowal Kachari Students’ Union Kirat Grantha.
On the other hand, the souvenir brought out to mark the occasion, Akhirbaad, was released by Dr Ratan Kumar Kataky of Assam Medical College. The compilation of Gunaram Dhekial Memorial Lecture and Rodali Ae Rod De, a collection of the poems of Robin Saikia, were released by lecturer of Manohari Devi Kanoi Girls’ College, Dr Lohit Saikia.
The results of the talent search competition held in two categories were announced today. Gyanashri Gogoi, Pranjana Saikia, Karabi Das and Arpit Sonowal were adjudged the first, second, third and fourth prize winners in the first section, while Rituparna Gogoi was first, Tribhuvan Pradhan second and Nayanmoni Dehingia third in the second section. A colorful procession would be taken out tomorrow.

Bhaona contest results declared

JORHAT, Feb 7: The organizers of the 10-day Ankiya Bhaona contest held at Majuli has announced the results of the winning teams and prizes in individual categories.
The best team award went to Kamargaon Anchalik Shilpi Gosthi, the second best team and third best team went to Lakhimpur Narayan Kenduguri Gaon and Namkatoni Shankar Madhav Sanskritik Goshti respectively. Two more prizes were given to the Agnigarh, Jorhat and Harjan Naxatra, Majuli, for fourth best and fifth best teams respectively. All the troupes performed the bhaona, Ram Bijoy.
The best gayan-bayan award was given to Namkatoni Shankar Madhav Sanskritik Goshti, while Pothalipahar Kendriya Janmautsav Samiti and Hatbor Kendriya Natya Samiti, Nagaon bagged the second and third prizes.
The best sutradhar award was given to Rajiv Bora of Namkatoni Shankar Madhav Sanskritik Goshti while Prasanta Baruah of Bogola Padmaata Kishti Kendra and Bubu Pasoni of Mekheligaon, Majuli were selected as second best and third best sutradhars respectively.
The best actor award was bagged by Pinkumoni Das of Kishti Sanskritik Goshti, Borbhetta in the bhaona Rukmini Haran. Babul Bora of Harjan Naxatra got the second prize in Ram Bijoy and Pradip Hazarika for of Baikuntha Shilpi Samaj, Dohotia in Kansa Badh.
The best actress awards were also given to male actors who enacted various female roles. The first prize went to Prahlad Nath of Ranga Sahi, Majuli for the role of Rukmini in Rukmini Haran. The second prize was given to Madhurjya Hazarika of Pothalipahar Kendriya Janmautsav Samiti for the role of Sita and the third prize to Rajiv Hazarika for enacting the role of Kunji in Kansa Badh.
Prabin Bora bagged the best mask actor award.

NH31A blocked by GJM, Sikkim cut off

GANGTOK: Sikkim was cut off from rest of the country when Gorkha Jan Mukti Morcha (GJM) activists blocked the National Highway 31A early Saturday as part of their 24-hour strike in the Darjeeling Hills region.

Vehicular traffic between Sikkim and Siliguri via the NH-31A has been totally paralysed since early morning, police officials at Rangpo inter-state border checkpost said.

Only a few vehicles belonging to the military forces, press persons and some ambulances were seen on the streets on the NH 31A, officials said.

The GJM had called for the strike in the Darjeeling Hills region to protest against "injustice to the adivasis in the state and police atrocities on them at Lalgarh in particular".

Source: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/?in_leftnav

AJYCP biennial conference from February 9

By our Staff ReporterGUWAHATI, Feb 5: Asom Jatiyatabadi Yuva-Chatra Parishad (AJYCP) is going to conduct its regular biennial conference for three days from February 9. As usual, the current state president Putul Dutta will resign as a single candidate cannot hold the posts of president and secretary for more than two years. Therefore, with his resignation, three deserving candidates, AJYCP advisor Dipendra Narayan Kaur and vice presidents Biraj Talukdar and Kamal Bharali, have already proposed their candidature for the post of president. It was also reported that current general secretary Manoj Barua is planning to contest for the same post though he has already completed his term for the second time. On February 9, the flag will be hoisted and this will be followed by a central executive meet. A delegates meeting will also be held in the evening on the same day. A cultural rally will be taken out on the second day of the meet which will be inaugurated by Golaghat DC Harendra Nath Bora. On the same day, an open meeting presided over by AJYCP president Putul Dutta will be held. The second delegates meet will be held on the second day as well. On the last day, another delegates meet will be organized on the first half and the office bearer selection meeting will be held in the evening. According to sources, a reception committee has been formed for successful completion of the meeting with Jayanta Goswami as the president, Nalini Ranjan Barua as the working president and Jitul Rajkhowa as the general secretary.

General manager of NF Railway visits Tinsukia

: From our Staff CorrespondentTINSUKIA, Feb 5: “All are equal in our eyes.” The N/F Railway general Manager Ashutosh Swamy told while speaking to the media at a press meet held at New Tinsukia while answering their questions on over looking of Tinsukia Railway Station in the form of majority of passenger Train to be run from Dibrugarh Banipur Railway Station to Tinsukia Railway Station on Monday last.It is reported that the general manager, who is on an annual inspection visit, told that the Railway is committed to provide better service every time to the public. When the general manager was asked about reports of the alleged one crore cheque scam in Tinsukia Railway Division, he, replied that this kind of an incident has taken place and told that already enquiry has been ordered. The media attracted the attention of the general manager towards substandard coaches being provided in the North East Express and other mail train services and appealed to start the Brahmaputra Mail from the old railway station. The communist party of Tinsukia District led by secretary Ranjan Choudhury also submitted a memorandum to the General Manager with 11 point demand for consideration that included starting of a Mail /Express train viz Abodh Assam, Cochin, Saraighat Express, Dadar and Trivandrum Express from New Tinsukia Railway Station citing essential for this Industrial Town specially the Bangalore Express be started Immediately. Demand was also made for reconstruction of the Old Tinsukia Railway Station and other smaller stations like DoomDooma, Hanshara, Borhapjan and others for better utilization. A double track railway line upto Ledo, installation of computer reservation counters at New Tinsukia Railway Station was also demanded.

Foundation stone of Ambedkar Bhavan laid

: From our CorrespondentBARPETA, Feb 5: National leader of India and the constitution founder Dr BR Ambedkar’s Bhavan will be constructed very soon at Barpeta. The foundation stone of Dr BR Ambedkar Bhawan was laid by Agriculture Minister Pramila Rani Brahma at Krishnagagar, Barpeta which was arranged by Assam Schedule Caste-Tribe Unemployed Association. In this connection a meeting was arranged where Barpeta MLA Gunindra Nath Das, Barpeta ADC Najrul Islam and all the members of Dr BR Ambedkar Bhavan construction committee and all the workers and members of All Assam Schedule Caste-Tribe Unemployed Association were also present.

'ULFA has links with ISI, Bangladesh spy agency'

NEW DELHI: The top leaders of ULFA have close links with Pakistan's intelligence agency ISI and have been enjoying patronage of Bangladeshi spy agency DGFI, a former senior leader of the banned outfit claimed on Friday.

"The top ULFA leadership has close links with ISI, DGFI and some Islamic organisations. Without their support, it is not possible for anyone to have bases in Bangladesh," Mrinal Hazarika, former chief of ULFA's 28th Battalion, who had come overground deserting the organisation along with 150 other cadres, told reporters here.

The so-called battalion was one of the fierce wings of the ULFA and was allegedly responsible for a number of killings, abduction and extortion in Assam in the past.

Hazarika, who described his group as pro-talks, said the ULFA has several camps, offices and shelter places in Bangladesh, including some in cities.

"All these have been running with the consent of the official agencies of that country," he claimed.

He said ULFA, which has been fighting for a separate home land for the last three decades, has no camps in China but a few offices and shelter places.

Hazarika, however, admitted that ULFA had sent its cadres to Pakistan-Afghanistan borders for training till two years ago.

Source: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/ULFA_has_links_with_ISI_Ex-member/articleshow/4088272.cms

3 killed, 5 hurt in road mishap

Correspondent DALGAON, Feb 4 – Three persons were killed on the spot while five others seriously injured when a Tata Indica (AS-01-AH-9904) with seven passengers coming from Jamugurihat of Sonitpur collided head on with a truck (AS-D-5846) coming from the opposite direction, at Burigaon on NH-52 at about 9 am near here.The victims have been identified as Surendra Nath Barman (60) his granddaughter Anjali Bora (7) and the driver of the ill-fated Indica Mukul Das (30). The injured persons have been immediately shifted to GMCH after preliminary medical treatment at Mangaldoi Civil Hospital.

Annual meetA Reporter

JORHAT, Feb 4 – The 80th annual conference of the All Assam Ministerial Officers’ Association will be held at Jorhat Sankardev Seminary on February 10 and 11. A reception committee was formed in this regard with Rana Goswami, the local MLA of Jorhat constituency as its president. About 500 representatives from 42 branches of the association are expected to participate in meeting.Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi will be the chief guest in the open session. The souvenir will be released by Deva Kumar Bora, press adviser to CM. The state government has granted special leave for the delegates going to take part in the function. This was informed by Tanu Krishna Goswami and Anup Kumar Borthakur, president and general secretary of the association respectively.

Pobitora Wildlife Society formed

GUWAHATI, Feb 4 – In a meeting of nature lovers, held on January 30, it was decided to promote a society by the name of Pobitora Wildlife Society, a press release said.The society will do the needful to protect and promote Pobitora in cooperation with public of the adjoining areas. TC Das of Guildtech, project consultants Guwahati will act as coordinator of the adhoc committee.

Constable suspended for assault on family

: From our Correspondent JORHAT, Feb 3: An Assam Police constable was suspended and sent to jail along with his brother-in-law for the alleged brutal assault on a family near Charingia under Pulibor police station last night. According to information available, Dambaru Gogoi and his wife and son, who were travelling in their Maruti car, were stopped by the errant constable, Pulin Bora, who was riding on a motorcycle, over an issue of giving passage on the road. Bora and his brother-in-law, who was riding pillion, reportedly started assaulting Gogoi. The duo allegedly hit Gogoi’s wife and son, too, when they tried to intervene. Gogoi, who was on his way to Jorhat from Kaziranga for medical treatment, later lodged a formal complaint at Jorhat Sadar police station. Acting on it, the police immediately swung into action and arrested Bora and his brother-in-law. Both were produced before the court and later sent to judicial custody.

Treasury employees hold out closure threat

: From our Correspondent JORHAT, Feb 3: The All Assam Treasury Employees’ Association has threatened to abstain from work from February 23 if the State Government fails to issue any official order regarding the fulfilment of its long-standing demands. In a statement, general secretary of the association Prodip Rajkhowa said that the treasury employees would not soften their stand for the completion of official transactions at the end of the current fiscal year in March. “We have been forced to adopt such a measure due to the repeated negligence on the part of the State Government,” he added. The treasury employees are demanding increase of reservations for them in Assam Revenue Service from the current 10 per cent to 30 per cent, eligibility of only graduates for treasury posts, creation of posts of superintendent, record keeper and chowkidar in every treasury office and construction of quarters and separate offices. The All Assam Treasury Employees’ Association claimed that the State Government had conceded to their demands through a written note on September 25 last year. However, no official order regarding the acceptance of the demands has reached the association as yet, it maintained. Meanwhile, as part of the first phase of their agitation, the employees of all treasury and sub-treasury offices wore black badges on Monday and Tuesday. They will resort to a poster campaign from February 4 to February 8 in the second phase.

Deaths condoled

From our CorrespondentGORESWAR, Feb 1: Goreswar Press Club today, expressed condolence over the demise of Naren Deka, ex-editor of The Assam Tribune and Mohini Rabha, widow of Kalaguru Bishnu Rabha in an executive meet held under the Chairmanship of Niranjan Deka, president of the Goreswar Press Club.

Majhi gives away computer sets to students

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: From our Staff CorrespondentDIBRUGARH, Feb 1: Water Resources and Labour Minister Prithibi Majhi in a function held here at the Government Boys’ Higher Secondary School today distributed the Anundaram Barooah Award among the students who had excelled in the last HSLC Examination. All total 1,045 students of the district were eligible to receive the award. As many as 24 students among the recipients did apply for cash money instead of computers.Handing over the citation to five recipients, Majhi in his deliberation stated that the State Government sponsored such award distributed among the students who stand out in the HSLC Examination, had not only encouraged the students towards developing a scientific mindset but it opened up a new horizon in the field of education in the State. The headmasters of nine high schools with cent percent HSLC results were also awarded.The meeting presided over by Dibrugarh Deputy Commissioner Ashutosh Agnihotri was attended by Addl Deputy Commissioner Naresh Chandra Upadhaya, Inspector of Schools of the district Diganta Ramchiari and NABARD manager Dilip Kumar Das.Earlier, District Information and Public Relation Officer Satya Ranjan Kar gave a brief account of Anundaram Baruah and the award. source: sentinel assam

Stolen iron pipes recovered

From our Staff CorrespondentDIBRUGARH, Jan 31: In a joint operation of the security force of Oil India Limited and Duliajan Police recovered a large number of stolen iron pipes of OIL from a depot located at Madhuting Bokuloni under Naoshalia police outpost yesterday morning. According to sources, illegal traders dumped these stolen OIL pipes at the depot, owned by a resident of Hukuta village of Duliajan, Sachin Gogoi, for supplying to the other parts of the country. The total value of the recovered stolen goods was approximately Rs 3 lakh. However, the joint operation, sources said, has continued to nab all those involved in the crime.