Rahul Gandhi’s Conviction Stayed by Supreme Court

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August 4, 2023

"MLA Bishnu Kumar Sharma sworn as a Cabinet Minister "

Shri Bishnu Kumar Sharma, MLA, Rhenock -19 constituency, was sworn in as a Member of the Council of Ministers at a ceremony held here at Ashirvad Hall in Raj Bhawan, today.

The oath of office and secrecy to the Minister-designate was administered by the Governor of Sikkim, Shri Lakshman Prasad Acharya, who was accompanied by the First Lady, Smt. Kumud Devi.

The decision was taken unanimously at a legislator’s meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Shri Prem Singh Tamang, at Mintokgang on Aug 03, 2023.

Earlier, the ceremony commenced with Chief Secretary, Shri V.B. Pathak, seeking permission from the Governor to proceed with the swearing-in ceremony.

Chief Minister Mr Prem Singh Tamang extends his best wishes to Mr Bishnu Kumar Sharma for being sworn in as a Cabinet Minister at Aashirwad Hall, Raj Bhawan. The oath was administered by the Governor Mr Lakshman Prasad Acharya.

Furthermore, Chief Minister expressed confidence that the state will achieve remarkable progress and reach new milestones due to the Minister’s unwavering dedication and perseverance.

Justice Deo of Bombay High Court Resign

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August 4, 2023

In an unexpected turn of events, Justice Deo, the second most senior judge at the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court, tendered his resignation today. Heading the division bench alongside Justice MW Chandwani, Justice Deo’s decision sent shockwaves through the legal community as he announced his departure in an open court session at noon.

Addressing those present in the courtroom, Justice Deo expressed his regret for any harsh words he might have spoken, emphasizing his intention to spur improvement rather than causing harm. He referred to his colleagues and associates as a family and conveyed his sadness at having to make the difficult decision to step down from his esteemed position. The heartfelt apology and announcement marked the end of an era for the Nagpur bench.

Born on December 5, 1963, Justice Deo’s legal journey has been a remarkable one. Prior to his elevation to the bench in June 2017, he had served with distinction as the Advocate General of Maharashtra.

Lok Sabha Set for High-Stakes No-Confidence Debate as PM Modi Prepares to Respond

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August 2, 2023

The political arena in India is gearing up for a fiery debate in the Lok Sabha, following the announcement that the no-confidence motion against the Narendra Modi government will be discussed starting from August 8. The debate, propelled by the Congress and supported by the Indian National Developmental, Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc, is expected to be a significant showdown, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to provide his response on August 10.

The decision was reached during a consequential meeting of the Lok Sabha’s Business Advisory Committee (BAC) on Tuesday. However, the meeting was not without its share of drama, as senior leaders from the INDIA bloc staged a walkout in protest. Their discontent stemmed from the government’s apparent prioritisation of its legislative agenda over the crucial no-confidence motion.

The no-confidence motion, initiated by Congress’ deputy leader in the Lok Sabha, Gaurav Gogoi, on July 26, was aimed at compelling Prime Minister Modi to address the pressing issue of the unrest in Manipur.

The INDIA bloc, which includes prominent parties like Congress, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), Trinamool Congress (TMC), and the Left parties, alongside the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), has vociferously demanded an immediate discussion on the motion. Their frustration was evident as they protested against the government’s apparent move to push its legislative agenda this week instead.

In response to the demand for an immediate debate, the government presented its viewpoint, emphasising that the no-confidence motion should be discussed within 10 working days of being admitted. They argued that there were no explicit rules or historical precedence mandating an immediate discussion of the motion.

As the nation anticipates the forthcoming debate, political analysts predict a stormy session within the Lok Sabha. The no-confidence motion has ignited fervent discussions and raised expectations for a comprehensive and impactful discourse on various critical issues facing the nation.

With the stage set and the dates finalised, the eyes of the nation will be fixed on the Lok Sabha, as parliamentarians engage in an intense debate that could potentially shape the course of Indian politics. As Prime Minister Modi prepares to deliver his response, the significance of this upcoming exchange cannot be understated.

Supreme Court Lambasts Government Over Manipur Violence, Calls for Immediate Action

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August 2, 2023

In a scathing rebuke of the government’s handling of the recent ethnic violence in Manipur, the Supreme Court of India issued strong criticism today, decrying an “absolute breakdown of constitutional machinery” in the state over the past two months. The remarks, delivered by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, have further fueled political tensions and provided ammunition to the Opposition’s calls for the removal of Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh and the imposition of President’s Rule.

Chief Justice Chandrachud, leading the bench, slammed the investigation into the violence as “tardy” and “lethargic,” highlighting significant delays in registering First Information Reports (FIRs) and recording witness statements. Expressing deep concern, the court demanded the personal presence of the Manipur Director General of Police during the upcoming hearing on Monday.

During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta revealed that a staggering 6,523 FIRs related to the violence had been registered, with 11 of these specifically involving crimes against women and children. The shocking revelation comes amid nationwide outrage over the brutal treatment of women in the midst of the violence.
The court particularly focused on a horrific incident captured on video, where women were paraded naked and allegedly gang-raped. Justice Chandrachud pressed for accountability, questioning whether the police officers accused of handing the women over to the mob had been thoroughly interrogated. The Solicitor General admitted that obtaining such information overnight might not be feasible.

However, the court expressed dissatisfaction with the overall progress of the investigation, pointing out that, apart from a few cases, there had been a glaring lack of arrests and a delay in filing FIRs. Chief Justice Chandrachud lamented, “There has been an absolute breakdown of constitutional machinery in Manipur for the past two months. The state police is incapable of investigation. They have lost control. There is absolutely no law and order.”

The court’s frustration was echoed by its demand for a detailed breakdown of the FIRs, categorizing them based on the nature of the crimes committed. Justice Chandrachud stressed the need for a comprehensive assessment of the situation, including murders, rapes, arson, looting, destruction of religious sites, and other forms of violence.

In response to the Solicitor General’s assertion that 252 arrests had been made, the court expressed skepticism and urged the government to expedite its efforts. The possibility of transferring select cases to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) was also discussed, with the court emphasizing the importance of a well-defined mechanism for such transfers.

As the Manipur violence continues to stir public outrage and political turmoil, the Supreme Court has indicated its intent to establish a committee of former high court judges to monitor and assess the investigation. The court’s rigorous questioning and demand for accountability underscore its commitment to upholding justice and constitutional integrity.

The issue has now reverberated beyond the courtroom, causing a parliamentary logjam with both Houses repeatedly adjourned since the monsoon session began on July 20. As the nation awaits further developments, the Supreme Court’s unwavering stance serves as a reminder that the protection of citizens and the maintenance of law and order are paramount.

NIT Sikkim conducts a Press Conference on Empowering Excellent Initiatives undertaken by the Institute on NEP 2020

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July 25, 2023

Under the aegis of commemorating the 3rd Anniversary of National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, NIT Sikkim conducted a Press Conference on NEP 2020 on Monday, 25th July 2023 in the conference hall of the Institute. The press conference was chaired by Prof Mahesh Chandra Govil, Director- NIT Sikkim, Register Dean along with the senior Deans and Head of the Departments on the Empowering Excellent Initiatives on NEP 2020 undertaken at NIT Sikkim.

The policy comes under the aegis of the Ministry of Education Government of India and reflects on the transformative journey of education institutes guided by this new education policy.

Over the past three years, NIT Sikkim has taken several important initiatives and implemented several transformative policies and other key was highlighted by Institue.

NIT has reviewed and updated its curriculum for university Programmes as reversed curricula and syllabi. During these revisions, NEP 2020 has been kept in view and its visions incorporated into the programmes as appropriate in the context of the highly reputed technical and science education programmes of NIT Sikkim. Some of the major strategic initiatives already undertaken by IIT Kharagpur, in the light of NEP 2020 has been a multidisciplinary research-intensive university offering Science and Technology.

It is now initiating a new dimension of its multidisciplinarity by starting Co-circular activities like vocational training, nurturing students’ physical, emotional and intellectual growth. The education system at NIT Sikkim has always emphasised the learning of humanities and other disciplines through electives. The new NEP 2020 NIT Sikkim has enabled students to choose subjects like Artificial Intellegent, Machine Learning and Quantum computing. Further, a new class of programmes called Entreptrunership and startup have been introduced, which a student can do.

Institue also highlighted the important features of the new education policy that have helped in bringing significant improvement in higher education in the institute.

NIT also plan that each department will make strategic departmental Development Plans to focus in school like JNV Ravangla and JNV Phodong. On the basis of which department/centre/school will develop initiatives, assess their own progress, and reach the goals set therein, which could then become the basis for further Support from the Institute.

To study Tourism, Humanities, and quality Education in the fields and its integration with engineering, science, humanity and social sciences research, the institute has also set up a reform such initiative could be started for the interested students with support from the Ministry of Education.

NIT Sikkim also has signed MoU with International Universities such as the Universities of Canada for student/faculty exchange, joint research projects, international exposure, collaboration, and exchange in enhancing the quality of education, promoting research and innovation, and preparing students for global challenges, NIT-Sikkim has undertaken various steps.

An Academic Bank of Credit shall be established which would digitally store the academic credits earned from various recognized Higher education Intuitions which would be undertaken under the national initiatives by the Ministry.

During the pandemic, NIT Sikkim has conducted online classes for its programmes extensively to focus on the development of Online resources. NIT Sikkim already has several initiatives for empowering economically deprived students at the state level under a Ministry of Education initiative.

Taking NIT Sikkim in more advance, NIT Sikkim has signed MOU with the leading institute and Industries such as IIT Delhi, IIT Roorkee, IIT Guwahati, IIT Hyderabad, MNIT Jaipur etc, and Industry such as DRDO, NHIDCL, TCG, Life Science etc for research collaboration.

NIT Sikkim Said that “they place on record our deep sense of gratitude to Hon’ble Minister of State for Education, Shri (Dr.) Subhas Sarkar, Smt. Annapurna Devi and Dr Rajkumar Ranjan Singh for visiting the institute and appreciating us on our initiatives towards the implementation of NEP-2020. We gratefully acknowledge the constant guidance and encouragement received from the Secretary, of Higher Education, Shri Sanjay Murthi, the members of the Board of Governors, the Senate, and all stakeholders of the institute.”

“The National Education Policy 2020 has completed three years of implementation, and its impact on India’s education landscape has been substantial. From promoting holistic development and skill-oriented learning to integrating technology and fostering inclusivity, NEP-2020 has laid a strong foundation for a progressive education system and indigenous technologies.

It will also enable us to realize the dream of our Hon’ble Prime Minister the “AatmaNirbhar Bharat”. However, the journey towards achieving the policy’s vision is ongoing, requiring continued dedication and collaborative efforts from all stakeholders.

As an important stakeholder, NIT Sikkim is fully committed to building upon the successes of NEP-2020 aworkingork towards an inclusive, innovative, and globally competitive education system that empowers every student at the Institute to realize their full potential. The Institute is excited to showcase its achievements in the upcoming event at New Delhi on 29th and 30th July 2023 to commemorate the third anniversary of NEP-2020.” Said Prof Mahesh Chandra Govil, Director- NIT Sikkim

100% Village Development Programme (VDP) successful completion by Ringhim Nampatham GPU

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July 21, 2023

Ringhim Nampatham GPU, adopted by Mr. Hishey Lachungpa, MP RAJYA SABHA SIKKIM under Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojna in 2016, has successfully achieved 100% VDP certified by IMIS portal.

Mr Lachungpa congratulates the entire GPU Panchayat and Public and also commends the team headed by District Collector North, team including BDO Mangan, PDA Ringhim Nampatham and all concerned Officials from other Departments who have helped The Ringhim Nampatham Panchayat and Public to achieve the set Targets since the year 2016.

It is the fruit of combined collective effort that has yielded cent percent results.

Other Gram Panchayat Units are also encouraged to work diligently and follow the successful strategy so that Rural Sikkim can be strengthened to attain sustainable development in the times to come.

Prime accused arrested in Manipur, Hunt is on to arrest other accused

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July 20, 2023

In a shocking incident circulated on social media on July 19, two women were paraded naked and a 21-year-old was gang-raped in broad daylight. The prime accused leading the mob has been identified as Huirem Herodas, aged 32.
According to a statement by Manipur police on Wednesday. A case of abduction, gang rape, and murder has been registered at Nongpok Sekmai police station in Thoubal against unknown armed miscreants.

In response to the heinous crime, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has assured the public that strict action will be taken against all the perpetrators involved. He further asserted that the possibility of capital punishment would be considered for the culprits.

Outrage Erupts After Viral Video Shows Two Tribal Women Paraded Naked and Gang-Raped in Manipur

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July 20, 2023

In a shocking and deeply disturbing incident, a video has surfaced on social media showing two women from the Kuki-Zo tribal community being paraded naked and gang-raped by a violent mob in broad daylight. The incident occurred on May 4, 2023, in B Phainom village, Kangpoki District, Manipur, during a deadly riot between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities.

According to the FIR, the incident took place around 3 pm on May 4 when more than 800 miscreants carrying weapons entered the village. The mob vandalized and burnt down all the houses after looting movable properties, cash, furniture, electronic items, utensils, clothes, grains, and domestic animals, leaving the villagers homeless. Among the victims, a 21-year-old woman was gang-raped in a broad day light.

According to police sources, the horrifying incident unfolded when a small group comprising three women and two men, sought refuge in the forest area while the ethnic strikes were escalating. The group consisted of a 56-year-old man, his 19-year-old son, and 21-year-old daughter. Additionally, two others were accompanying them, one aged 42 and the other aged 52.

As they were making their way to the forest, the group encountered a police team from the Nongpok Sekmai Police Station. However, their path was obstructed by a violent mob. Tragically, the 56-year-old man was killed on the spot, and the 19-year-old boy also lost his life while attempting to protect his sister from the mob’s sexual assault.

During the horrifying ordeal, three women from the group were forcibly disrobed and paraded naked by the mob. The 21-year-old woman fell victim to a brutal gang-rape carried out by the mob .

The incident occurred after a deadly riot broke out on May 3 between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. The root cause of the ethical violence is the judgement of the Manipur High Court, which directed the state government to consider including the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribes list. This decision led to protests and clashes, resulting in ongoing violence in the region.

The video of the horrifying incident went viral on June 19, triggering widespread outrage across the country. However, it wasn’t until June 21 that an FIR was finally registered, charging the perpetrators with gangrape, murder, abduction, and other offences.

Despite the passage of more than two months since the incident, no arrests had been made until recently. The Manipur Police, facing public pressure, tweeted on July 19, stating that they are making all-out efforts to arrest the culprits involved in the heinous act.

In response to the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday in front of the Parliament building broke his silence for the first time and expressed shame on behalf of the country. He urged all state Chief Ministers to tighten laws to protect the women of India. He also assured that no perpetrators will be forgiven and strict action will be taken against all involved.

The Minister of Women and Child Development Department and the Chief Minister of Manipur also condemned the incident and promised to ensure that the perpetrators face strict action. Smriti Irani on 19 July tweeted “The horrific video of sexual assault of 2 women emanating from Manipur is condemnable and downright inhuman. Spoke to CM @NBirenSingh ji who has informed me that investigation is currently underway & assured that no effort will be spared to bring perpetrators to justice.”

The chief Minister of Manipur Biren Singh on Thursday tweeted “My hearts go out to the two women who were subjected to a deeply disrespectful and inhumane act, as shown in the distressing video that surfaced yesterday. After taking a Suo-moto cognizance of the incident immediately after the video surfaced, the Manipur Police swung to action and made the first arrest this morning. A thorough investigation is currently underway and we will ensure strict action is taken against all the perpetrators, including considering the possibility of capital punishment. Let it be known, there is absolutely no place for such heinous acts in our society.”

The incident has deeply disturbed the nation, and the Supreme Court has taken cognizance of the matter. The court has asked the Centre and Manipur Government to submit a report by July 28, detailing the steps taken to bring the culprits to book and the measures being implemented to prevent such incidents in the future.

The incident has ignited a call for justice and safety for women across the country. The nation waits with bated breath for a resolution, hoping that such heinous acts will have no place in society, and stringent actions will be taken against the perpetrators.

Aditya Golay chairs the District Level Independence Day celebration coordination meeting

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July 19, 2023