Friday, June 27, 2025
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Northeast Flood Crisis Deepens: 52 Dead, Lakhs Affected Across Seven States

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Missing Tourists Search Continues in Sikkim

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

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"Sikkim Girls Rescued from Trafficking"

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

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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

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"63 Tourists Stranded in Chaten"

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

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"Heavy Vehicles Banned on NH-10"

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.

Bengaluru Stampede Turns RCB Victory Celebration into Tragedy, 11 Dead

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"Bengaluru Stampede Kills 11 at RCB Celebration"

A celebratory event marking Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) maiden IPL title win turned tragic as a massive stampede outside the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium claimed 11 lives and left over 50 injured. 

The incident occurred when an estimated 2–3 lakh fans gathered to celebrate RCB’s victory over Punjab Kings. The stadium, with a capacity of 35,000, was overwhelmed by the crowd, leading to chaos and a deadly crush.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced a magisterial inquiry into the incident and declared a compensation of ₹10 lakh for the families of the deceased. He stated, “I don’t want to defend this incident. Our government will not do politics on this. I have ordered a magisterial inquiry and given 15 days’ time.” 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, describing the mishap as “absolutely heartrending.” He added, “In this tragic hour, my thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that those who are injured have a speedy recovery.”

The injured have been admitted to Bowring and Lady Curzon Hospital, with several in critical condition. Police used mild force to manage the crowd and prevent further chaos. 

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Devajit Saikia commented on the incident, stating, “It is very unfortunate. This is a negative side of popularity. People are crazy for their cricketers. The organisers should have planned it better.”

The tragedy has cast a shadow over RCB’s historic achievement, prompting discussions on crowd management and public safety during large-scale events.

Royal Challengers Bangalore Secures a Much-Needed Win

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RCB-wins-Trophy
RCB-wins-Trophy

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) delivered a stellar performance yesterday, securing a remarkable win that lifted the spirits of fans across the nation. The match, held at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahemdabad, saw RCB dominate both with the bat and ball to defeat Punjab Kings by 6 Runs. The team showcased an all-round performance that not only entertained fans but also revived hopes of climbing up the IPL 2025 points table.

This win comes at a vital point in the tournament, boosting RCB’s position on the points table and reigniting hopes for a playoff berth.

Fans took to social media to celebrate the victory, praising the team’s energy, discipline, and tactical decisions.

RCB-wins-Trophy
Image Source: bcci.tv / BCCI Official Website

Indian Army Leads Search and Rescue Operations in North Sikkim

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"Indian Army in North Sikkim Rescue"

Indian Army has launched an intensive search and rescue operation under extremely challenging conditions. The strategic village of Lachen, a popular tourist hub, has been completely cut off due to road blockages. Despite the treacherous terrain and relentless rain, Army personnel have managed to establish foot connectivity to the isolated area. They have reached out to 113 stranded tourists and initiated evacuation measures. On 03 June 2025, 30 individuals, including foreign nationals, were successfully airlifted by military helicopters to safety.

Search operations continue with urgency in Chaten, where a military camp was struck by the landslide. Six people remain missing: Lieutenant Colonel Pritpal Singh Sandhu, Subedar Dharamveer, Naik Sunilal Muchahary, Sepoy Sainudheen PK, Squadron Leader Aarti Sandhu (Retd), and her daughter Amayra Sandhu. The Army has deployed specialized teams, engineering units, and search equipment, but their efforts are being hindered by adverse weather, unstable land, and the demanding high-altitude environment.

The Indian Army’s tireless operations underscore its unwavering commitment to saving lives and supporting communities in crisis. Despite all odds, the mission continues with determination—because every life matters.

Man Crushed to Death by Fallen Tree at Gangtok Bypass Construction Site

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"Fatal Tree Fall at Gangtok Bypass Site"

A man lost his life this afternoon after being crushed by a falling tree at the under-construction two-lane Gangtok Bypass road from Ranipool to Burtuk, near Rawtey, Rumtek.

The incident occurred between 3:00 PM and 3:30 PM. The deceased has been identified as Santosh Giri, aged approximately 45 years. A tree reportedly fell and struck him while he was passing by the area. Two children were seen crying beside him at the time of the incident.

Giri was rushed to STNM Hospital, where he was declared dead on arrival. A post-mortem is scheduled, and the police have begun an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Governor of Sikkim, Mr Om Prakash Mathur, Arrives in Soreng District

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Governor Mathur Visits Soreng

The Governor of Sikkim, Mr Om Prakash Mathur, arrived in Soreng District today as part of his official tour. He was accompanied by Commissioner-cum-Secretary to the Governor, Mr Jitendra Singh Raje and ADC to Governor of Sikkim, Mr Santosh Baniya, along with Officers and officials.

Upon his arrival, the Governor was warmly received by the District Collector (Soreng), Mr Dhiraj Subedi, Superintendent of Police (Soreng), Mr Nahkul Pradhan, and other officers and officials of the district administration. The reception was marked by the ceremonial Guard of Honour by the 2nd IRBn (Pipalay).

During his visit, the Governor is scheduled to engage in a comprehensive review of the administrative framework and developmental initiatives in Soreng District. Tomorrow, he will be meeting with District Heads and Officers from various departments to discuss key governance matters, ongoing projects, and policy implementations aimed at enhancing public welfare and regional development.

The Governor’s maiden visit underscores the State Government’s commitment to effective governance and close coordination between administrative units. His interaction with district officials is expected to provide valuable insights and efforts towards inclusive development.