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Assam-Mizoram Row: A brief analysis from a Regional, Geo-Political & Security Perspective

By
Riddhik Parashar
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Assam Mizoram Clash
Assam Mizoram Clash
“You can change friends, not neigbours.”- Former PM Late AB Vajpayee.

Assam as the elder sister:

The above-mentioned quote was said by former PM Late Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ji. During the 2003 India-Pakistan bilateral summit held in Agra. This particular quote can be apt with the ongoing border dispute between the NE states of Assam & Mizoram. Assam is the gateway to the entire NE region land route-railway & road transport. It is laden with a lot of responsibilities as the elder sister among the seven sister states. The recent dispute between the Assam and Mizoram, if escalates again, can have a greater geopolitical and security implications.

Ethnic overlap:

The flow of Burmese refugees in Mizoram following the recent military coup in Myanmar highlights the question about the global migrant crisis. The fate of the uprooted refugees from a conflict zone in a foreign land. Mizoram however shares an approximately 500 km long porous border with the Chin state of Myanmar. It is the home of the majority Kuki-Chin speaking communities of Myanmar.

Thus, also acts as the sign for the sense of linguistic and ethnic belongingness, as the Mizo language is a part of the Kuki-Chin language family. These refugees from Myanmar welcomed by the Mizo hospitality, considering the ethnic overlapping. Further exemplified by news report (June this year) said the allocation of funds by Mizoram for the refugee on humanitarian grounds. However, rehabilitating several refugees automatically doubles the state’s resources which also includes land. Also, speculated that the recent border dispute between the two states over land might be having an angle, determined from this perspective from Mizoram’s side.

Assam border concerns:

Assam already has boundary dispute with the neighbouring states of Meghalaya, Nagaland and even Arunachal Pradesh. It is now facing problems with Mizoram. This led to a violent incident, witnessed the death of Assam Police jawans along with many jawans being injured.

Assam and Mizoram:

Let‘s examine the geopolitical and security dimensions of the crisis between the two states. The People’s Republic of China (China/PRC), an emerging hegemon of the 21st century has got a significant number of stakes in India’s NE region. From claiming Arunachal Pradesh as their territory of South Tibet to supporting the last remnants of the NE insurgents against the Indian state. Thereby acting as an invisible foreign hand in destabilizing the region. China’s role and influence can’t be ignored, as its footprints are already expanding the South East Asian region. It is India’s destination in the “Act East initiative” and its route is obviously via the NE region of India. Enhancing the Act East initiative means synchronising the overall development of the NE region from infrastructure to connectivity, seen a pace since 2014. This includes the Kaladan Multi-modal project too where Mizoram is a major stakeholder.

Consequences:

A deteriorated state of the relationship will lead to Assam not being able to extract benefits from Mizoram and vice versa. Disturbance along the Assam-Mizoram border can further ignite the other states to demand their territorial claims over the boundary issue. In 2017 Hindustan Times reported the statement by the Chinese state media saying ‘rising Hindu Nationalism’ hijacked India’s China Policy.

Conclusion:

Considering the ideological leanings of the current ruling party in Assam, it will be not wrong if we consider the China factor here. It may be having a diabolical agenda of creating instability in India’s NE region. With motive to disrupt the ongoing developmental works in the region, by covertly provoking certain mischievous elements. If the crisis escalates again in future, it will be detrimental to both sides, considering the dissatisfaction by the people of Assam.

Above all, in January 2019, massive demonstrations against the ‘Citizenship Amendment Bill 2016’ (Now CAA) took place in Mizoram which even witnessed signs that said “Hello China..Bye Bye India”.

Slogans like these only mean providing an upper hand and leverage to the adversarial nation of China. They can take enormous advantage of it for their nefarious agenda about which I mentioned above. If similar outbreak of a similar or crisis resurfaces then external actors will indirectly or covertly fulfil their expansionist objective. Therefore, a peaceful settlement framework under the aegis of New Delhi is a must. So, that it prevents the domestic crisis/issue from being used by India’s adversaries.

Also, Read| IIT Bombay allows Afghani students to join classes

Assam- Mizoram Border Dispute, 6 killed

By
Saiket Sharma
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Assam Mizoram Land dispute
Assam Mizoram Land dispute

An unfortunate incident occurred in North-East India yesterday evening when both the police forces of Mizoram and Assam clashed over at Lailapool of Cachar district, which has been known as a flashpoint of inter-state border clashes for decades. This time, it took an extremely barbaric turn when alleged Mizo assailants loaded with Light machine guns ( seen in different videos) fired on the Assam side leaving 5 jawans of Assam police dead on the spot and injuring around 65-75 more people.

IPS Vaibhav, SP, Cachar was shot too after which he was admitted to the ICU of Silchar Medical College. He may be flown to Mumbai for higher treatment. Meanwhile, the PSO of DC, Cachar was shot at to which he succumbed.

Both Assam Govt and Mizoram Govt have narrated their version of the story. But, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma strongly condemned the inhumane, undemocratic move of Mizoram Police and has talked with Mizoram CM over the incident. While CM Sarma thinks that this issue can be solved over discussions after satellite imaging surveys, he has also allowed Assam Police to retaliate and open fire from now on.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, on Monday, urged Chief Minister of Mizoram Zoramthanga to investigate this matter saying why civilians from his states were holding sticks and trying to incite violence on the Assam-Mizoram border.

He said, “Honble Zoramthanga Ji, could you please investigate why are civilians from Mizoram holding sticks and trying to incite violence? We urge civilians to not take up law and order on their own hands and permit peaceful dialogue to take place between governments.”

The Assam Govt has announced 50 lakh compensation for the family of every Jawan deceased in this unfortunate incident that rocked the Nation and has promised Govt a job for a person in the family of the deceased. He has also declared to raise a Commando- Batallion of 3000 soldiers for the protection of Barak Valley.

Also Read – Expert claim data leaks, Clubhouse denies

Enhanced rainfall activities over Sikkim during the period 28th June to 2nd July

By
Jeewan Dahal
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corona sikkim
Corona case in Sikkim

On Sunday, Meteorological Department (IMD) said the Sikkim will witness heavy rainfall as the southwest monsoon will be covered in the Sikkim region.

Advancing further, the Southwest Monsoon covered the Sikkim region, nearly four days after its normal date.

Special Weather Bulletin Gangtok Said “Monsoon is advancing very well. It has advanced to Sikkim and parts of West Bengal 4 to 5 days in advance. The monsoon flow is strong and southwesterly winds have picked up on a large scale”

And around Sikkim- Rongli, Chungthang: 3 each; Shipgyer, Dentam: 2 each; Gangtok, Mazitar, Khanitar, Namthang, Damthang, Gyalshing: 1 each has Chief rainfall amount(in cm) recorded.

Current Meteorological Condition is saying that The northern Limit of southwest monsoon (NLM) continues to pass through Lat. 26°N / Long. 70°E, Barmer, Bhilwara, Dholpur, Aligarh, Meerut, Ambala and Amritsar. The trough at mean sea level now runs from East Uttar Pradesh to northwest Bay of Bengal across Jharkhand and Gangetic West Bengal

IMD has classified that the progress is going to slow over the next two days, i.e 28th June.

According to Weather Forecast Due to the expected shifting of the trough of low-pressure area north-wards and strong moisture incursion from the Bay of Bengal, rainfall activities over all the districts of Sikkim very likely to be enhanced during the period 28th to 02nd July 2021. During this period, heavy to very heavy rain (07-20 cm) is very likely to occur at isolated places over the state, especially all over East and North Sikkim.

Sikkim has been witnessing heavy rainfall since last week causing heavy damage in Gangtok areas due to landslides. It’s also reported that landslide appeared in Some parts of North Sikkim which also caused east and north connecting bridge.

Also Read – Sikkim recorded 170 new covid cases and 00 New Death

Sikkim to get Sikkim House in Mumbai, relief for medical visitors

By
Jeewan Dahal
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On 31st January 2021, the Honourable CM of Sikkim PS Golay has announced Sikkim will have a Sikkim house in Mumbai soon.

Speaking with The Sikkim Today team in January 2021 in West Sikkim, Chief Minister PS Golay has approached Maharashtra Government for the construction of a Sikkim house in Navi, Mumbai on which the Maharastra govt agrees to accept this.

This house will be 6 km from the nearest airport and 2 km from Tata memorial hospital which be will easy for Sikkimese patients to get connected nearby.

Earlier lots of people from Sikkim who used to go to Mumbai for treatment but can’t find a reasonable place to stay and the Chief minister thought this Sikkim house will be accessible for those who are going to Mumbai for medical treatment.

Yesterday in Sikkim legislative assembly, Honourable Chief minister said ” Maharashtra government has approved our proposal to construct Sikkim House Navi Mumbai near the Tata Memorial Hospital which is one of the top hospitals in the country”

Land measuring 4000 square meter which is almost 1 acre has been allotted for which Rs 11 crore 97 lakhs has already been paid and taken in possession, said HCM in the Assembly.

This will ease the financial burden on our people travelling to Mumbai for treatment and also assist them in other matters,” Chief Minister P.S. Golay in his Budget speech on Monday.

Earlier, the patient from Sikkim used to stay in Hamro Chhahari which was launched years back by the Nepali community from overall which cost only 300/per day Room. But getting a room in Hamro Chhahari is also very difficult for many patients.

Protective Wall Binding Teesta Collapses Posing Threat For Erosions.

By
Jeewan Dahal
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The recent incessant rains in the state have transformed small streams into raging torrents and increased the water volumes of big Rivers like Teesta. The sudden rise in water level is an alarming bell for a few disasters in making. A portion of the protective wall guiding the flow of the Teesta has been washed away. A complete washout is evident if not taken care of and we are only in the first week of June.

The illegal quarrying, sand mining and breaking up of river boulders is the main reason for rivers to change courses and pose a threat. If this issue is not addressed at the earliest, the under-construction via-duct might be damaged.

Also, the settlements near the river belts are always at a threat during every monsoon. Most of the river belts in Sikkim have been plundered by sand mafias and river boulders broken down by stone breakers to feed them into the illegal crusher plants mushrooming in every nook and corner along the riverside. Sikkim is inviting a catastrophe and this will be man-made and not natural.

Two Gorkha Seva Sena Members Arrested by Sikkim Police

By
Jeewan Dahal
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Acting on an FIR lodged by the Home Department, Sikkim Police have arrested two members of the Gorkha Seva Sena—Bikramadi Rai from Darjeeling and Subash Mani Singh from Kalimpong. The arrests were made for allegedly misinterpreting a court hearing, misusing the official state mascot, and spreading misinformation related to the sensitive Darjeeling–Sikkim unification issue.

According to sources, a police team from Sikkim picked up the duo from their respective locations. The arrest of Subash Mani Singh was further confirmed through a Facebook post shared by him, which has since drawn public attention.

A third individual named in the case, Noel Sharma, is yet to be arrested, confirmed a source familiar with the investigation.

Mongolia prime minister resigned after public anger over son’s luxury lifestyle

By
Jeewan Dahal
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Mongolia’s Prime Minister, Luvsannamsrain Oyun-Erdene, resigned on June 3, 2025, following a parliamentary vote of no confidence amid widespread public protests over allegations of corruption and his son’s extravagant lifestyle.

Son of Mongolia’s Prime Minister and his fiancée have come under public scrutiny after photos of their lavish lifestyle were shared on social media. The images reportedly include a luxury car, designer handbags worth millions of tugriks, and high-end fashion items.

These displays have led to widespread public criticism and concerns over the source of their wealth, given that there is no clear business or income background to support such spending.

As a result, citizens have filed formal complaints with the Independent Authority Against Corruption (IAAC/АТГ), calling for a full investigation into the couple’s finances. The IAAC has since opened a case and has summoned Temuulen for questioning. He is currently living abroad but has stated he will return to Mongolia next week to cooperate and give an official explanation.

Public concerns are mounting, with many accusing the Prime Minister’s family of potential conflicts of interest and corruption. Citizens and activists are urging law enforcement and anti-corruption bodies to conduct a transparent and fair investigation.

MLA Pamin Lepcha Visits Tsomgo Village with Forest Department Officials to Promote Health and Green Initiatives

By
Jeewan Dahal
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Gnathang Machong MLA and Advisor to the Social Welfare Department, Mrs. Pamin Lepcha, conducted an extensive official visit to Tsomgo Village today, focusing on reviewing public infrastructure, environmental initiatives, and strengthening community engagement. She was accompanied by Pakyong District Zilla Adhakshya Mrs. Laden Lhamu Bhutia, Zilla Panchayat Member Mr. Lakpa Tshering Tamang, DFO Gangtok (T) Mrs Smita Shilal, DFO Pakyong (T) Mr Sonam Pintso Bhutia, RO Kyongnosla (T) Mr Krishna Chandra Dahal, SHO Sherathang Mr Yogen Gurung, personnel from the Indian Army (Trishakti Corps), officers from the Forest and Police Departments, members of the Tsomgo Pokhri Sanrakshan Samiti, and local residents.

The visit began in Chipshu Village, where the MLA inspected the Primary Health Centre and the newly constructed 100-bedded hospital, which is currently non-functional. She instructed officials to expedite the installation of essential medical equipment and ensure operational readiness before the upcoming Mansarovar Yatra. Staffing and emergency preparedness were also emphasized.

In a significant green initiative, a plantation drive was organized under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign of the Forest and Environment Department. The MLA, alongside officials and villagers, planted saplings to raise awareness about environmental conservation. She also led the implementation of the “Mero Rukh Mero Santati” scheme, conceptualized by Chief Minister Shri Prem Singh Tamang, by distributing certificates and saplings to families with newborns, linking personal celebrations with ecological responsibility.

Mrs. Lepcha later inaugurated the “I Love Tsomgo” selfie point near Tsomgo Lake, developed in collaboration with the Forest Department and Tsomgo Pokhri Sanrakshan Samiti, aimed at promoting eco-tourism.

The MLA visited the Tsomgo Ropeway and Shopping Complex, interacting with local vendors and shopkeepers. She took note of grievances related to water, infrastructure, and waste management and assured prompt follow-up with relevant authorities.

The day-long visit underscored MLA Pamin Lepcha’s commitment to inclusive governance, grassroots development, and sustainable practices, reinforcing collaboration between the government and local communities for long-term growth.

Sikkim CM Congratulates SIMFED, MPCS for Over ₹1.3 Crore Dividend

By
Jeewan Dahal
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Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang extended heartfelt appreciation to the Sikkim State Cooperative Supply and Marketing Federation Ltd. (SIMFED), Dentam MPCS, and West Pendam MPCS for their significant contribution of dividends to the State Government.

SIMFED presented a dividend cheque amounting to ₹1,29,99,000, while Dentam MPCS and West Pendam MPCS contributed ₹22,500 and ₹20,000 respectively.

The Chief Minister acknowledged SIMFED’s continued commitment to the growth of the cooperative sector and its pivotal role in supporting the State’s economic and developmental initiatives. He described the dividend handover as a reflection of SIMFED’s efficient functioning, financial prudence, and dedication to public welfare.

CM encouraged SIMFED and all MPCS units across the state to sustain their efforts and continue serving as role models for cooperative institutions in the region. He emphasized that such contributions reinforce the State Government’s resolve to strengthen the cooperative movement, foster self-reliance, and promote inclusive development.

The Chief Minister conveyed his best wishes to the Chairman, Secretary, board members, management, and all stakeholders of SIMFED and the MPCS network, applauding their collective efforts and dedication towards cooperative excellence in Sikkim.

Tourists Diverted Amid North Sikkim Cut-Off; Travel Unaffected in Rest of Sikkim

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0

Despite the ongoing disruption in Mangan district due to landslides, tourism activity across the rest of Sikkim remains largely unaffected. Authorities have confirmed that Chungthang continues to be cut off, but evacuation of stranded tourists is proceeding smoothly with the combined efforts of local residents, travel agents, and state departments.

Additional Chief Secretary of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Mr. C.S. Rao, stated that the overall tourist flow into Sikkim has not dropped and the department remains confident of reaching its annual target of 25 lakh tourist footfall. “Tourists are willingly diverting their plans to other districts,” he said, while also urging travel agents to guide visitors toward alternative destinations.

Mr. Rao highlighted that Sikkim has more than 200 tourist sites, including 93 prominent locations spread across various districts. He also praised the role of rural tourism and confirmed that homestays are functioning well. Nathula remains accessible, passes are being issued, and movement is being strictly regulated for safety.

PCE-cum-Secretary Mr. Neeraj Pradhan reassured the public that only Mangan district has been affected and the rest of the state remains open to tourists. He also noted the resilience of the tourism sector during this challenging time.

Secretary Ms. Hondala Gyaltsen added that many tourists are already modifying their itineraries and continuing their trips in other districts. Trekking routes and other attractions remain active and safe for visitors.

Once the evacuation is complete, the department plans to hold a review meeting with police, army, and stakeholders to strengthen future preparedness. The government assures travelers that Sikkim remains a safe and welcoming destination, even as restoration efforts continue in the north.

Northeast Flood Crisis Deepens: 52 Dead, Lakhs Affected Across Seven States

By
Jeewan Dahal
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The northeastern states of India are facing one of the worst monsoon seasons in recent years, with severe floods and landslides causing widespread destruction. The death toll has risen to 52, with lakhs of people displaced and critical infrastructure damaged across multiple states.

In Assam, the Brahmaputra and its tributaries have crossed danger levels, submerging over 1,500 villages in 21 districts. Sribhumi remains the worst-hit, with over 2.5 lakh people affected. A total of 6.7 lakh residents have been impacted, and more than 40,000 have taken shelter in relief camps. Military and civil authorities are conducting rescue operations under challenging conditions.

Sikkim has seen extensive damage, especially in North Sikkim’s Chaten area. The Indian Air Force evacuated over 100 stranded civilians, including foreign nationals, using helicopters. However, six individuals, including a senior Army officer and his family, remain missing after a massive landslide hit a military camp.

Manipur’s situation is also grim, with over 1.65 lakh people affected. Hundreds of homes have been submerged, and several areas in Imphal East remain under water. Roads and bridges have been destroyed, and landslides have cut off key routes.

Arunachal Pradesh continues to battle heavy rains and flash floods, with over 33,000 people affected across 24 districts. Landslides and road blockages have added to the state’s woes, slowing down relief efforts.

As the monsoon continues, the cumulative impact across the Northeast is devastating. Relief operations are ongoing, but many areas remain inaccessible due to washed-out roads and collapsing infrastructure. The situation remains tense as authorities race against time to rescue the stranded, restore access, and prevent further loss of life.

Three Sikkim Girls Rescued from Human Trafficking in Siliguri

By
Jeewan Dahal
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Three girls from Sikkim, who had initially claimed to be employed at a hotel in Rangpo, were found to have been victims of human trafficking in Siliguri.

The rescue operation was led by Bindu Sharma the director of the Global Human Rights Peace Foundation, an NGO based in Siliguri. On June 4, the organization formally handed over the rescued girls to the Sikkim Police in the presence of their families.

Upon receiving the alert, the Global Human Rights Peace Foundation, in collaboration with SDPO Soreng, successfully established the girls’ identities and confirmed that they were originally from Sikkim. A rescue team led by DIGP and Dy.SP of AHTU, along with police personnel, traveled to Siliguri and formally took custody of the girls with support from the local NGO Global Human Rights Peace Foundation. They were brought back to Gangtok the same day.

The girls have been admitted to the “One Stop Centre” at Lumsey, Tadong, where they are receiving medical attention, psychological counseling, and shelter. The Child Welfare Committee (CWC) has been informed, and all legal formalities for reintegration are being followed.

Authorities have initiated an investigation to determine how the girls were trafficked and exploited. The incident underscores growing concerns over human trafficking and the urgent need for stronger protective measures for vulnerable individuals in the region.

CM PS Golay Angry Over Delayed Salaries, Orders Action

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang expressed strong anger over the delay in salary payments to Forest Department employees, some of whom have not been paid since August 2024. The issue came to light during an informal conversation at the Environment Day celebration with the Minister and Secretary of the Forest Department.

The Chief Minister called the delay “heartless” and questioned how affected employees were managing to survive for nearly a year without pay. He ordered the suspension of salaries for officials responsible for the non-payment, stating, “Let them also experience what poor people feel.”

The Chief Minister’s immediate response has drawn attention to the lack of accountability within the department and sparked calls for a deeper investigation.

His action reflects a zero-tolerance stance on administrative negligence and emphasizes the need for timely disbursement of wages, especially for lower-rank government employees struggling to make ends meet.

63 Tourists Still Stranded in Chaten Due to Bad Weather

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0

The evacuation of stranded tourists from Chaten in North Sikkim was suspended today due to sudden worsening of weather conditions. Two MI-17V5 helicopters had been deployed from Pakyong Airport for the operation. One chopper successfully airlifted 39 tourists, while the other evacuated 20, including two foreign nationals. However, poor visibility and deteriorating flight conditions forced authorities to call off further operations for the day.

Superintendent of Police (Mangan), Sonam Dichu Bhutia, confirmed that 63 tourists still remain stranded in the high-altitude region. The evacuation will resume as soon as weather conditions improve, officials said. The tourists have been provided with food and medical assistance and are reported to be safe.

The rescue effort comes in the wake of a recent landslide in the region that disrupted road connectivity and triggered emergency responses.

Heavy Vehicles Restricted on NH-10: Movement Curbed Due to Safety Concerns

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0

The National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd. (NHIDCL) has imposed restrictions on NH-10 from Sevoke to Rangpo due to safety concerns at multiple vulnerable stretches.

Effective from June 5, 2025, only commercial vehicles with laden weight up to 4 MT are allowed. Exceptions include NHIDCL, IRCON, NHPC vehicles, ambulances, armed forces, and public transport on case-by-case basis.

The order aims to regulate traffic near Km 26–49 amidst unstable terrain. A magisterial inquiry has been ordered, and local administration will ensure smooth enforcement of traffic guidelines.

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