Prof. Maheswar Neog Memorial Lecture & Exhibition Held At Gauhati University

VNE Correspondent
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Prof. Maheswar Neog Memorial Lecture & Exhibition Held At Gauhati University

Gauhati University, in collaboration with the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), hosted the Professor Maheswar Neog Memorial Lecture & Exhibition at the Phanidhar Dutta Hall yesterday, drawing a good attendance of students, scholars, and admirers of Assamese culture.

The event was organised to celebrate the legacy of Prof. Maheswar Neog, the eminent historian, scholar, and cultural icon of Assam. It featured both a lecture and an exhibition, highlighting his wide-ranging contributions to literature, history, folklore, and the study of Assamese traditions.

Prof. Navamalati Neog Chakraborty, the Chief Guest and keynote speaker, delivered a lecture on the theme “Art, Culture, Literature and Historiography: The Face of Tradition in Assam.” She underscored Prof. Neog’s role as a pioneer who combined rigorous academic research with deep respect for India’s cultural and spiritual heritage.

The exhibition, titled “Through the Lens: The Life and Works of Prof. Maheswar Neog,” showcased rare photographs, manuscripts, and documents that traced the scholar’s journey as a chronicler of Assam’s cultural history. The display offered younger generations a glimpse into the vast intellectual legacy left behind by one of the state’s most respected academicians.

University officials noted that the memorial lecture series is designed not only to honour Prof. Neog’s memory but also to encourage new research and discussion on the cultural identity of Assam. The event also reinforced the importance of preserving traditional knowledge while engaging with contemporary academic methods.

Speakers at the programme highlighted Prof. Neog’s enduring relevance in the modern context. His scholarship, they said, continues to guide efforts to bridge the gap between folklore and formal historiography, while inspiring young researchers to document oral traditions and folk practices before they vanish.

The gathering witnessed active participation from academics, cultural activists, and students. Attendees expressed their appreciation for the initiative, noting that such events help keep alive the intellectual spirit of Assam’s leading thinkers.

The organisers emphasised that the annual memorial lecture and exhibition will remain a regular feature, ensuring that Prof. Neog’s work continues to inspire future generations of scholars and cultural enthusiasts.

Assam Issues Warning As Heavy Rain Expected Till Sept 22

VNE Correspondent
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Assam Issues Warning As Heavy Rain Expected Till Sept 22

The Assam Government has issued a weather advisory following a forecast by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) that expects heavy to very heavy rainfall to continue in various districts until September 22. Local administrations have been instructed to keep emergency response systems on full alert, especially in low-lying and hilly regions prone to landslides and floods.

Our correspondent reports that the advisory urges residents in vulnerable areas to stay vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall. People are being advised to keep essential supplies such as medicines, candles, and other basic necessities ready, in case of power cuts or blocked access.

IMD’s forecast indicates that most parts of Assam can expect moderate rain, with isolated episodes of heavy downpour, thunderstorms, and lightning. The weather system is being driven by an upper air cyclonic circulation over northeast Assam at about 0.9 kilometre above sea level. Our correspondent adds that the monsoon remains active over Assam and neighbouring Meghalaya, with some regions already recording extremely heavy rainfall in recent hours.

Several urban centres have begun experiencing waterlogging. In the previous 24 hours up to 8:30 AM Tuesday, places like Goalpara received 55.2 mm of rain, Silchar 26.7 mm, Guwahati 18 mm, and Dibrugarh 19.2 mm. Traffic disruptions have been reported in Guwahati due to flooded roads and slow movement. Hilly districts have been put on notice for possible landslides in vulnerable terrain.

The advisory instructs local administrations to monitor the situation continuously and prepare disaster management plans. Daily commuters and long-distance travellers have been requested to plan routes carefully and avoid venturing out during heavy rainfall periods. Our correspondent adds that authorities are focusing attention particularly on hillside road stretches and flood-prone banks of rivers where early warnings have been issued.

Residents are also being reminded to follow official weather updates and heed instructions from local authorities to ensure safety. Emergency services are on standby, and departments involved in disaster response are prepared to mobilise as required.

Assam CM Flags Mismanagement In BTC Despite ₹2,000 Crore Annual Inflow

VNE Correspondent
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Assam CM Flags Mismanagement In BTC Despite ₹2,000 Crore Annual Inflow

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has strongly criticised the state of development in the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC), questioning how an annual inflow of nearly ₹2,000 crore has not translated into visible progress. Addressing a campaign rally in Suklai Serfang ahead of the September 22 BTC polls, Sarma said people in the region still complain of poor roads, incomplete schemes, and neglected infrastructure despite consistent financial support. Our correspondent reports that Sarma’s remarks come at a crucial time when the BJP is seeking greater control within the BTC administration.

The Chief Minister explained that BTC receives roughly ₹1,000 crore annually from the state government, ₹400–500 crore from the Centre, and an additional ₹500–600 crore dedicated to roads. “Yet every time I visit BTC, the people say roads remain unrepaired, and welfare schemes are not delivered. Where does this money go?” Sarma asked, urging voters to reflect on accountability in governance. Our correspondent adds that this was one of his sharpest critiques of BTC’s resource management in recent months.

Sarma pointed out that several key projects in the region have been executed with state government funds rather than BTC’s own budget. These include the medical college in Kokrajhar and the upcoming medical college in Tamulpur. He also highlighted multiple road and bridge projects across BTC as examples of state-led initiatives. Our correspondent reports that Sarma further announced the start of work on the long-awaited Naokata Nizargaon bridge, confirmation of cleared tenders, and ₹14 crore sanctioned for the Outari Stadium.

While stressing BJP’s commitment to development, the Chief Minister cited examples of swift action under his government. He recalled how residents of Goreswar demanded a train halt at their station, and within 15–20 days, the request was fulfilled. Sarma said this demonstrated how political will and determination can directly improve people’s lives. Our correspondent adds that Sarma used such instances to contrast BJP’s performance with the alleged inefficiencies of BTC authorities.

Looking ahead, Sarma promised that the government would take forward key demands from Serfang, including the establishment of a revenue circle office, a B.Ed college, erosion control measures, a State Bank branch, improved road connectivity, and a bridge over the Suklai river. He appealed to voters to support BJP candidate Ramendra Narzary, saying the party seeks to lead BTC governance directly rather than playing a supporting role from the outside.

Sarma concluded by emphasising that despite huge funding, BTC’s growth has lagged because of mismanagement and poor execution. He urged people to back BJP for “undisrupted development” and assured them that tangible results would follow under his party’s leadership.

MSCPCR Urges Swift Probe Into Child’s Death In Nongrah

VNE Correspondent
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MSCPCR Urges Swift Probe Into Child’s Death In Nongrah

The Meghalaya State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MSCPCR) has called for an expedited and thorough investigation into the tragic death of a four-year-old child at Nongrah in East Khasi Hills. The Commission described the loss as a matter of deep anguish and stressed that swift action is essential to deliver justice and bring some measure of closure to the bereaved family.

Following the incident, officials of the MSCPCR immediately reached out to the child’s family and remained with them throughout the day to provide support. The Commission also oversaw necessary official procedures at NEIGRIHMS, including the autopsy, while closely reviewing the case.

In a statement, the MSCPCR said, “The loss of any life is tragic – more so when it involves a child, whose innocence and future are so abruptly taken away. We extend our deepest condolences to the grieving family and stand in solidarity with them during this painful time.”

The Commission further cautioned the public against circulating images or videos of children in distressing circumstances on social media. Such acts, it reminded, are not only unethical and insensitive but also unlawful. Under provisions of the Juvenile Justice Act, the circulation of such material attracts strict penal consequences, including imprisonment.

The MSCPCR also urged the police and investigative agencies to act with urgency. “A swift and thorough investigation is vital, not only to ensure justice but also to help the family cope with this tragic episode,” the Commission emphasized.

The case has sparked widespread concern in the state, with child rights advocates and citizens alike calling for accountability and preventive measures to safeguard children in vulnerable situations. Authorities have assured that the investigation will be pursued on priority.

Road Closures In Sohra On Sept 27 For Half Marathon

VNE Correspondent
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Road Closures In Sohra On Sept 27 For Half Marathon

The Additional Deputy Commissioner of Sohra civil sub-division has announced that several roads around Sohra will remain closed to traffic on September 27 to ensure the safe conduct of the 4th Sohra International Half Marathon 2025. The restrictions will be in place in the morning hours, affecting both local commuters and visiting tourists.

According to the notification, multiple key routes will be impacted. These include the stretch from Mawkdok towards Sohra, the road from Mawkma towards Shillong-Sohra road, the Laitmawsiang-Laitryngew road connecting to Shillong-Sohra road, the Dainthlen junction, and the Khliehshnong-Sohra route towards Shillong-Sohra road. In addition, traffic will also be restricted on the Laitkynsew-Sohra road via Mawmluh and the Lad Sohbar-Sohra road.

The traffic curbs will be enforced between 5:00 am and 9:30 am on the day of the event. Officials have advised residents, travellers, and tourists to adjust their schedules in advance to avoid inconvenience.

Emergency services, however, will not be affected by the restrictions. Vehicles such as ambulances, fire tenders, and other essential service carriers will be exempt from the curbs to ensure uninterrupted response in case of emergencies.

The Sohra International Half Marathon, now in its fourth edition, has become a popular sporting and tourism event for the region, attracting participants from across India and abroad. Authorities emphasized that public cooperation will be crucial to ensuring the event’s smooth and safe conduct.

Meghalaya’s Cabinet Expanded With Eight New Ministers

VNE Correspondent
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Meghalaya’s Cabinet Expanded With Eight New Ministers

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has effected a significant cabinet reshuffle, inducting eight new MLAs into his Council of Ministers. The expansion was confirmed this afternoon following their swearing-in at Raj Bhavan.

The newly sworn-in ministers include Wailadmiki Shylla, Sosthenes Sohtun, and Brening A. Sangma, all from the National People’s Party (NPP); Methodious Dkhar representing HSPDP; and Lahkmen Rymbui from UDP. These changes follow the removal of earlier ministers to make way for new leadership in the cabinet.

This move strengthens the ruling coalition’s leadership base and reflects internal realignment among the partner parties. The inclusion of the new faces is seen as Sangma’s attempt to refresh his ministry and possibly address performance or regional representation concerns.

Earlier in the day, in a sweeping cabinet reshuffle, Conrad K. Sangma dropped eight sitting ministers to induct new faces into his council of ministers. The changes were formalized with the submission of a new ministerial list to Governor C. H. Vijayashankar.

From the ruling National People’s Party (NPP), the ministers losing their positions included Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh, Power Minister Abu Taher Mondal, Education Minister Rakkam A. Sangma, and Food & Civil Supplies Minister Comingone Ymbon. They were replaced by MLAs Sosthenes Sohtun (Jirang), Timothy D. Shira (Resubelpara), Wailadmiki Passah (Jowai), and Brening A. Sangma (Dalu) respectively.

Ex-Manipur MP Dr Lorho S Pfoze Joins NPP, Pushes Indigenous Unity

VNE Correspondent
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Ex-Manipur MP Dr Lorho S Pfoze Joins NPP, Pushes Indigenous Unity

Dr Lorho S Pfoze, former Lok Sabha MP from Manipur’s Outer constituency, has officially joined the National People’s Party (NPP), pledging to dedicate his future political efforts to tribal and indigenous unity in the Northeast. The 65-year-old leader, who had recently resigned from the Naga People’s Front (NPF), was welcomed into the NPP by its leadership at the party headquarters in Shillong.

Dr Lorho hails from the Mao Naga community in Senapati district. He represented Outer Manipur in the 17th Lok Sabha after winning the 2019 general election on an NPF ticket. His resignation from the NPF, tendered on September 11 citing “personal reasons,” opened the path for his induction into the NPP.

At the induction ceremony, Dr Lorho expressed his gratitude to the NPP leadership, emphasizing the need for solidarity among indigenous and tribal communities across the region. “We, as indigenous communities, must work together,” he said, invoking the legacy of late Purno Agitok Sangma as a guiding force for inclusivity and integrity in public life.

Welcoming Dr Lorho into the fold, NPP national president and Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma described him as a respected figure across diverse communities in Manipur. Sangma praised Dr Pfoze’s honesty, transparency, and public service record, saying his inclusion would strengthen the party’s ability to represent Northeast aspirations.

The induction was attended by senior NPP leaders including National Working President James K. Sangma, Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, and several MLAs from Manipur.

Dr Lorho thanked his former party, the NPF, for its support in his earlier political journey but expressed that at this juncture he felt the need to align with the NPP to pursue broader goals of regional unity and development.

His move is seen in some quarters as a sign of evolving political alignments in Manipur, where issues of tribal identity, indigenous rights, and regional representation play a significant role. Observers note that for NPP, this addition could enhance its political influence in outer hill districts, and send a signal about the party’s commitment to being a platform for diverse groups.

AASU’s Satyagraha Escalates With Protests Against CAA, Illegal Immigration

VNE Correspondent
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AASU’s Satyagraha Escalates With Protests Against CAA, Illegal Immigration

Protests across several Assam districts intensified under the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU)’s ongoing “Satyagraha” campaign, demanding stricter action against illegal immigration and opposing any move to extend Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) protections to undocumented immigrants.

In Golaghat, members and volunteers of the local AASU unit marched through the streets with banners declaring “Bangladeshi Go Back,” shouting anti-CAA and Assam Accord slogans. Our correspondent reports that demonstrators pressed for immediate implementation of the Biplab Kumar Sarma Committee’s recommendations under Article 6 of the Accord, which deal with detection and deportation of illegal immigrants.

Similar conspicuous demonstrations took place in Biswanath and Nalbari. In Biswanath Chariali, student protesters accused the government of sidelining clauses of the Assam Accord while reportedly enabling settlement of undocumented Bangladeshis in Assam. Our correspondent adds that protesters also condemned past delays in implementing essential provisions and warned that further postponements of CAA deadlines could dilute Assam’s rights.

Meanwhile in Nalbari, nearly two hundred students staged sit-in demonstrations near district headquarters, echoing slogans such as “Assam Accord Implementation” and “Down with CAA.” AASU members voiced concerns that the 36 years since the Accord’s signing have seen many clauses remain unfulfilled.

AASU vice-president Bhabajit Bezbaruah declared today that Assam will never accept CAA or laws that threaten indigenous identity, urging the government not to extend legal protections to undocumented immigrants under CAA. Our correspondent reports that such protests aim to remind authorities of the grassroots demand for preservation of culture, identity, and legal recognition, grounded in genuine indigenous concerns.

The Satyagraha, which began on August 27, gathered momentum with hunger strikes and symbolic demonstrations. Planned future actions include human chain formations across AASU units on September 20, and mass rallies in district headquarters on September 23, to further amplify the demands. Our correspondent adds that AASU’s strategy underlines non-violent civil resistance, aiming to draw public and political attention through coordinated and increasing displays of unity.

Rs 2 Crore Cash, Gold Seized From Assam Top Officer

VNE Correspondent
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Rs 2 Crore Cash, Gold Seized From Assam Top Officer

In a significant crackdown on corruption, a top-ranking Assam Civil Service (ACS) officer, Nupur Bora, was arrested on Monday after a raid on her residence unearthed a substantial amount of cash and valuables. A team from the Chief Minister’s Special Vigilance Cell (CM’s SVC) conducted simultaneous searches at multiple locations linked to the officer and her associate, seizing cash and jewellery worth an estimated two crore rupees. The operation, which follows a months-long surveillance, has highlighted the state government’s commitment to combating corruption and misuse of public office.

The raids were initiated early on Monday morning at two flats in Guwahati and one in Barpeta. The primary target was the flat of Nupur Bora, a 2019-batch ACS officer who is currently posted as a Circle Officer in the Goroimari Revenue Circle of Kamrup district. During the extensive search, officials recovered a staggering sum of approximately ₹92 lakh in cash and gold and diamond jewellery valued at over ₹1 crore. The seized currency was so voluminous that officials from the State Bank of India (SBI) were called in to assist with the counting. A further ₹10 lakh in cash was recovered from a rented property in Barpeta linked to the officer.

Our correspondent reports that the raid was a culmination of a six-month surveillance operation. Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, confirmed that Nupur Bora had been on the vigilance cell’s radar following complaints of her alleged involvement in controversial land-related issues during her previous posting in the Barpeta Revenue Circle. Our correspondent adds that she is accused of illegally transferring government land and other properties to “suspected infiltrators” and was allegedly operating with a close associate, a land clerk named Surajit Deka, whose home was also raided as part of the investigation.

Nupur Bora ACS
The accused Nupur Bora

Chief Minister Sarma has publicly stated that his government is determined to bring an end to corruption, particularly in revenue circles in areas with a significant minority population. He said that this case is part of a larger push to ensure transparency and accountability in the state’s administration. He added that the investigation is a work in progress and that more property and assets may be uncovered as the probe continues. The authorities are also scrutinising bank lockers held by Bora in Barpeta and Golaghat.

The raids and the subsequent arrest of the young officer, who has only six years of service, have sent a strong message across the state. This is the latest in a series of anti-corruption drives by the government, which has been under pressure to address allegations of irregularities in various departments. The case has been registered under the Prevention of Corruption Act, and the accused have been remanded to police custody for further investigation. The Chief Minister’s office has vowed to take strict action against any government official found to be involved in corruption, regardless of their position.

Nagaland RMSA 2016 Batch Teachers Demand Pay Parity

VNE Correspondent
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Nagaland RMSA 2016 Batch Teachers Demand Pay Parity

A wave of discontent is rising among teachers recruited under the Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA) 2016 batch in Nagaland, as they press for equal pay with colleagues from earlier batches. The issue has gained momentum in recent days after several organisations came forward to support the teachers’ demand, calling the existing pay gap discriminatory and unjustified.

The RMSA scheme, launched nationally to improve secondary education, has recruited teachers across Nagaland in multiple phases. However, those appointed in the 2016 batch allege that their salaries are significantly lower than peers recruited earlier, even though their qualifications, responsibilities, and workload remain the same.

Teacher representatives argue that the situation amounts to unequal treatment within the same cadre. “We perform identical duties, teach the same subjects, and work under the same conditions, yet we are paid less. This disparity has to end,” a spokesperson for the 2016 batch teachers said.

Support has come from student bodies, civil society groups, and even some senior educators, who believe that failure to address the issue could demoralise a key segment of the teaching workforce. Organisations backing the teachers have warned that the disparity risks undermining the state’s education system by discouraging qualified candidates from joining or staying in the profession.

The teachers have submitted memoranda to the state government and held discussions with the Department of School Education, seeking an immediate revision of their pay structure. They insist that parity must be ensured in line with national norms, which generally avoid pay differences for teachers recruited under the same scheme.

Officials from the education department have acknowledged the grievances but say the matter requires careful examination of financial implications and approval at higher levels of government. They have promised to hold further consultations to find a resolution.

Meanwhile, teachers have hinted that if their demands are not addressed soon, they may intensify their agitation. “We are committed to teaching, but we also deserve fair treatment. If necessary, we will explore stronger forms of protest,” one teacher remarked.

The issue has sparked broader debate on how contractual and scheme-based teachers are treated across the country, with many pointing to chronic disparities between different batches and states. Experts argue that such inequalities not only demotivate staff but also compromise educational outcomes, as teachers distracted by financial stress cannot give their best to students.

For now, the RMSA 2016 teachers are rallying under the banner of fairness and parity, with growing public support behind them. The state government faces pressure to act quickly, both to protect morale in schools and to prevent further disruption in the education sector.

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