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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.

Nepal Plane Crash: Saurya Airlines Aircraft at Kathmandu

By
Jeewan Dahal
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Nepal Plane Crash: Saurya Airlines Aircraft Crashes During Takeoff at Tribhuvan International Airport

19 people, including aircrew, were aboard the Pokhara-bound plane which met with the accident at around 11 am.

A Saurya Airlines aircraft crashed during takeoff at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Nepal’s Kathmandu on Wednesday, The Kathmandu Post reported. Nineteen people, including aircrew, were aboard the Pokhara-bound plane which met with the accident at around 11 am, said Premnath Thakur, TIA spokesperson, the report added.

Soreng Police Successfully Rescue Sikkim Girl in Delhi

By
Jeewan Dahal
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Soreng Police Successfully Trace and Rescue Missing Sikkim Girl in Delhi.

The Soreng Police Station, with the aid of the District Cyber Cell and led by PI Latta Bardewa, successfully traced and rescued a missing girl in Delhi. 

The operation was supported by the Delhi Police and guided by Shri Nahkul Pradhan, SP Soreng. Gratitude was extended to SLA Speaker Shri MN Sherpa for his continuous support and guidance.

Minister Raju Basnet Inspects Ranipool-Pakyong Road Works

By
Jeewan Dahal
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Raju Basnet, Minister of Education, Sports & Youth Affairs, Law, and Parliamentary Affairs, and the Area MLA for Namcheybong, undertook a comprehensive joint inspection today to review the ongoing road works on the Ranipool-Pakyong National Highway and Assam Linzey. He was joined by Mr. Agwane Rohan Ramesh, as well as senior officials from the SE Roads and Bridges Department, DFO Forest and Environment, DE WRD and Irrigation Department, General Manager NHIDCL, AE Road and Bridges Department, PMGSY, and DPO Pakyong.

Also participating in the inspection were Mr. Robin Pd Sewa, ADC (Development); Mr. Dak Man Subba, SDM Pakyong; Panchayat members; various departmental officials and engineers; and local residents.

The inspection commenced from Sethipool-Ranipool to Aho Kisaan School. During this leg, the team was informed of several issues, including delays in bridge construction, wall damage, and sinking roads. Mr. Basnet queried the officials about the manpower involved and directed NHIDCL to expedite the ongoing works to ensure timely completion. He also stressed the importance of maintaining the surrounding areas of Saramsa Garden and recommended constructing a protective wall to prevent road sinkage in vulnerable zones.

The inspection continued from Aho-Mangkhim to the Andheri stretch, where it was revealed that the disruption of water flow channels due to construction activities was causing significant issues. NHIDCL officials agreed to conduct a survey with the help of panchayats and state authorities to identify cross-drainages and redirect the water flow appropriately.

The team discovered that the SPWD road from Aho to Mangkhim was blocked. Mr. Basnet instructed the concerned officials to clear and restore the road using heavy machinery. Additionally, DC Pakyong emphasized the necessity of making the road motorable by July 12, 2024, in accordance with Section 34 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005.

Further inspections included a review of Andheri Road and Basilakha Road to check on road construction progress and identify ways to divert natural water flow to protect the under-construction roads. At Pastenga Gaucharan to Noapgaon PMGSY road in Assam Lingzey, the team noted that the retaining wall at RD 1.5 km had been severely damaged by torrential rains. Labourers have been tasked with removing hazardous stones from the damaged wall.

An alternative diversion road has been proposed at Kilometre 16, Chapter 13 to Chapter 16 along the Assam Lingzey-Pakyong road near the 14-mile bridge in Pastinga due to the instability of the existing road, exacerbated by the river below and ongoing landslides. Mr. Naween Gurung, SE Roads and Bridges Department, reported that a survey for the alternate road has been completed, and a cost estimate is being prepared for immediate submission.

Mr. Basnet directed the Roads and Bridges Department to submit estimates for permanent restoration at Km 23 Ch 15 to 17 at Rong Rong Khola, Km 29 Ch 3 to 6, and Km 29 Ch 23 to 25 along the Assam Lingzey-Pakyong SPWD road, and urged them to ensure continuous road connectivity in the area.

Press Club of Sikkim Announces 2024 Awards for Journalistic Excellence

By
Jeewan Dahal
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The Press Club of Sikkim has announced the 2024 Kanchenjunga Kalam Purashkar to senior journalist Subash Rai, the copy editor of Summit Times newspaper. The award will be presented on the occasion of the 22nd foundation day of the Press Club of Sikkim.

The foundation day will also honor hardworking young journalists with the Lagansheel Yuva Patrakar Purashkar. This year, the Press Club has decided to felicitate two young journalists with this award. Journalist Nitesh R. Pradhan, a freelancer working with international and national media houses, will be one of the recipients. Suben Pradhan from the digital news platform Sikkim Chronicle will also receive the Lagansheel Yuva Patrakar Purashkar.

Additionally, senior journalist Kamal Mukhia, editor of the Nepali language newspaper Janmanch, will be felicitated on the foundation day.

Minister Roads and Bridges Inspection of Disaster-Affected Areas in Mangan District

By
Jeewan Dahal
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Mangan, 3 July : The Minister of Roads and Bridges, Mr N.B. Dahal, conducted an inspection of the disaster-affected areas from Phidang to Lingdong in the Mangan district. These areas have recently been devastated by landslides triggered by a cloudburst.

The programme also included the presence of SDM Dzongu, Mr Arun Chettri, SE Roads and Bridges (Gangtok), SE Roads and Bridges (Mangan)Pintso Pulger, Mr Karma G. Lachenpa,RO Mr Wangyal Sherpa and officials of the concerned departments of the district.

During his visit, the Minister assured the people of full support and aid in these challenging times. He enquired with the SDM of Dzongu about the status of compensation for the damaged infrastructure. The SDM confirmed that ex gratia payments have already been provided to those affected. Additionally, the SDM mentioned that the office has commenced inspections to assess land damage caused by the disaster.

The Minister also spoke with Mr Madhukar, Junior Engineer of 107 RCC GREF, and Mr Anirudh Kumar, Assistant Engineer, regarding the restoration of the road in Lingdong. They reported that they are working expeditiously and assured that the road would be restored within a few days.

Sikkim Introduces QR Code Payments in Taxis to Solve Fare Disputes

By
Jeewan Dahal
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The Government of Sikkim’s Transport Department has launched a new initiative to address public complaints about taxi fare issues stemming from a lack of correct change. To resolve these problems, the department has mandated the implementation of QR code and UPI payment options for local taxis. Effective immediately, all taxi drivers must provide QR codes for platforms such as Google Pay, Paytm, and PhonePe, facilitating seamless UPI payments.

During a recent meeting with stakeholders and local taxi associations, it was decided that drivers could obtain QR codes directly from these payment platforms or by contacting their respective banks. The mandate requires that QR codes be displayed on both the front windshield and the rear seat by July 15, 2024. Additionally, an official copy of the taxi fare must be prominently displayed in the vehicle for passengers’ convenience.

This initiative aims to streamline the payment process, enhance passenger convenience, and reduce disputes over fare payments, which have often led to arguments and traffic jams. The Transport Department expects that the introduction of QR code payments will greatly improve the efficiency of taxi operations and passenger satisfaction.

Sikkim Vigilance Police Arrest Two SBS Bank Officials

By
Jeewan Dahal
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The Sikkim Vigilance Police arrested two officials of the State Bank of Sikkim (SBS) on Friday. The officials face charges of criminal conspiracy, cheating, misappropriation, and forgery. Their residences and offices in Gangtok and Sang were also searched as part of the investigation.

The investigation revealed that the officials, along with a deceased lady customer who is the mother of an SBS official, allegedly cheated the Government of Sikkim. They dishonestly and fraudulently deposited six Demand Drafts (DDs) amounting to approximately Rs. 30 lakhs into their personal bank accounts. These DDs, issued by the State Bank of India, HDFC Bank, and SBS, were intended for the Accounts Officer of the Pension Department, Government of Sikkim, as refunds for overpayments of pensions to six deceased pensioners. Instead of depositing these DDs into the government account, the officials deposited them into their personal accounts and withdrew the funds within a day or two.

Following a complaint lodged by the Pension Department, the Sikkim Vigilance Police registered an FIR against unknown officials of the Pension Department, SBS, and other unidentified individuals.

During the investigation, it was discovered that one of the drafts was deposited in March 2024 into the personal account of a female customer who had passed away in January 2017. This deceased customer was the mother of one of the SBS officials involved in the fraud. The investigation team seized the death certificate of the deceased customer from the Vigilance Department’s sleuths. Notably, the deceased customer’s account was still active and operational.

Investigators also recovered incriminating documents, including bank passbooks, passports, and fixed deposits amounting to several lakhs of rupees. The extent of the defalcation may increase as the investigation progresses.

The Sikkim Vigilance Police continue their efforts to uncover the full scope of this fraudulent scheme and bring all responsible parties to justice.

One Crore Bribery Scandal Uncovered in State Bank of Sikkim

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0

In a Major operation, the Vigilance Department of Gangtok has conducted extensive raids in Gangtok, Pakyong, Jorethang, and Sombaria, targeting senior officials of the State Bank of Sikkim (SBS).

The raids were initiated following credible information suggesting widespread corruption within the bank. Officials seized a substantial amount of incriminating documents detailing alleged bribery transactions amounting to over one crore rupees.

It is reported that several senior officers of SBS received bribes over the past 5 to 6 years by instructing customers to transfer large sums of money into their personal bank accounts. The seized documents also reveal evidence related to the acquisition of movable and immovable assets, as well as large cash transactions.

FIRs have been lodged against the accused officials under various sections of the law pertaining to corruption and fraudulent activities. The investigation is ongoing as authorities continue to gather more evidence.

Former Sikkim Lok Sabha MP Pahalman Subba Passes Away

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0

Former Sikkim Lok Sabha MP Pahalman Subba Passes Away

Pahalman Subba, a former Lok Sabha MP from Sikkim, passed away this morning. 

Chief Minister of Sikkim Mr Prem Singh Tamang expressed deep sadness over the demise of former Member of Parliament, Late Mr Pahalman Subba. 

In his message, the Chief Minister extended heartfelt condolences to Subba’s family, relatives, and friends during this difficult time. “I offer my prayers for the departed soul to rest in eternal peace,” he said.

PM Modi to Visit Sikkim for 50th Statehood Day Celebrations

By
Jeewan Dahal
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0

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has confirmed his visit to Sikkim next year to commemorate the state’s 50th Statehood Day celebrations. The announcement was made following a meeting with Sikkim Chief Minister PS Tamang at the Parliament House in New Delhi. CM PS Tamang extended the invitation to PM Modi, emphasizing the cultural significance and developmental achievements of Sikkim. PM Modi’s upcoming visit underscores the government’s commitment to the region’s growth and integration into the national framework.

During the discussion, CM Tamang emphasized the critical need for funds amounting to Rs. 3673.25 crore for flood recovery and reconstruction efforts in the state. These funds are essential to address the aftermath of the devastating floods that struck Sikkim in October 2023. PM Modi assured CM Tamang of his support and committed to promptly addressing the funding requirements for the flood-affected areas.

During the meeting, they discussed several critical issues, including the demand for tribal status for 12 indigenous communities and the reservation of Limboo-Tamang seats in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly. They also deliberated on the upcoming visit of His Holiness the 17th Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorji to Sikkim.

CM Tamang briefed PM Modi on Sikkim’s initiative to establish a multimodal corridor with integrated checkposts between Sikkim and eastern Nepal at Chewa Bhanjyang.

Furthermore, CM Tamang proposed the development of a Himalayan Railway Line between Bakrakote in West Bengal and Rorathang in Sikkim, citing historical precedence from 1917 to support the initiative.

PM Modi commended Sikkim’s efforts under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative, aimed at environmental conservation, and assured CM Tamang of his participation in the initiative’s observance on July 7, 2024, in Sikkim.

Accepting the invitation for Sikkim’s 50th Statehood Day celebrations, PM Modi expressed his appreciation for the cultural richness and strategic significance of Sikkim. The meeting was attended by MPs Indra Hang Subba and DT Lepcha, emphasizing collaborative efforts towards Sikkim’s holistic development.

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