Keshav Smarak Fund in memory of Pritam Bhattacharjee

In memory of Pritam, Keshav Smarak Fund created

SILCHAR, August 12: It was a moment, both sad and sweet, when at a solemn function held in the auditorium of Guru Charan College here on Sunday evening, a fund under the nomenclature of “Keshav Smarak Samiti” was created in order to perpetuate the memory of Pritam Bhattacharjee, a meritorious student and research scholar of this town, who was waylaid by some goons while on his way to Delhi in Bihar by train and brutally murdered.

The function began with the lighting of lamp by Prof. Somnath Das Gupta, Vice–Chancellor of Assam University, in the presence of other dignitaries and before the packed distinguished assembly, followed by chanting of Veda–Mantra. At the outset, Pranab Kumar Paul Choudhury, secretary, Keshav Smarak Samiti, in his welcome address said that the Samiti dedicated to the memory of Dr Keshav Baliram Hedgawar, founder of RSS, had been engaged in various social and humanitarian works not only in Barak Valley but also beyond.

Pranab Kumar Paul Choudhury added to say that the fund was enriched with the donation of Rs 16 lakh by Sankar Bhattacharjee, father of Pritam, which he got as insurance claim of his son. With the fund so created that would be further increased with donations from him as well as from other willing donors, meritorious, poor and needy students would be helped in pursuit of their knowledge and higher studies.

Dr Sankar Bhattacharjee choked with emotions described his son Pritam as a boy with his love for man and animal, amiable in nature, dedicated to his studies with great ambition to shine in life as a scientist and with his deep quest for knowledge of physics, particularly his specialization, astro physics. Prof. Apratim Nag, lecturer in the Department of Physics of G C College, was all appreciative of his student whom he found as an epitome of empowered youth, brilliant, vibrant, jovial, adventurous, unique conglomeration of heart and head, passion for fundamental research in physics and longing for creative as well as explorative works.

Dipak Bhattacharjee, ex MLA and President, “Justice for Pritam Forum”, who was the guest of honour, recounted how there was nationwide protest against the killing of Pritam and all joined in a chorus to demand CBI inquiry notwithstanding the arrest of 9 criminals, now on trial in Bhagalpur Court. He was hopeful of justice for him. His loss, according to him, was a national loss as the life of a scientist of potentiality was extinguished forever.

Prof. Somnath Das Gupta, Chief–Guest, described his presence at the memorial function as one of “mixed experience.” It was a tragic event, though, it was a noble effort also to keep his memory alive. He could not comprehend how man could be so cruel and inhuman to take away the life of a boy of promise with bright academic career. However painful and sad, it was no doubt also an extraordinary step by Keshav Smarak Samiti to extend helping hand to the students achieving brilliant results in their examination. It was also a recognition of the talent and hard work of students and to make them more conscious of their social responsibility.

Dr N C Malakar, Principal in charge, G C College, guest of honour, was optimistic that the ‘Justice for Pritam Forum’ would achieve the ultimate goal of having justice for Pritam. Atin Das, well known poet, journalist and litterateur, who presided over the function, said life is short and death is inevitable and the destiny is predestined. Pritam Bhattcharjee too met the cruel fate despite all his qualities of being a person of compassion and love. It was indeed heartening that through this memorial event, the greater cause of “Gyan Yagna” was taken up and in it “lies our happiness”, he pointed out.

On this occasion, Sarmistha Paul, a student of Karimganj College, who secured best result in physics, was awarded a gold medal along with cheque of Rs 5,000. Anulekha Paul, a student of Guru Charan College, with her best result in physics, was also awarded a gold medal and a cheque of Rs 5,000. Rustina Suchiang, former student of Saraswati Vidya Niketan, Dolu, and presently studying in Vivekananda Commerce College, received a gold medal and a cheque of Rs 3,000 for her excellent performance in National Level Science Exhibition. From next year three more prizes would be awarded. One would be in memory of the Sanskrit teacher of Sankar Bhattacharjee, Khitish Paul Choudhury. A student securing highest marks in Sanskrit honours would get a gold medal and cash prize.

Two more awards would go to the highest marks scorers in arts and commerce streams of Women’s College in memory of the grandmother of Pritam, Kamala Bhattacharjee. Another award dedicated to the memory of Pritam’s aunt, Bithika Bhattacharjee, would be for poor and needy students as well as those calling for financial help in their sickness and hospitalization.

Source: The Sentinel 13.08.2013

Assam University Research Scholars’ Association (AURSA) reiterating its demands for adequate infrastructure

AURSA reiterates its charter of demands

SILCHAR, August 12: Assam University Research Scholars’ Association (AURSA) reiterating its demands for adequate infrastructure of research scholars submitted a memorandum to the Vice Chancellor.

The Association expressing its happiness at the new guidelines of the UGC that research scholars holding fellowship have to attend the university at least three days in a week said that in order to implement the guideline in the Varsity there was a need of building a minimum infrastructure for the interest of the research scholars.

They demanded a scholars’ common room having library and Internet facilities in every department so that they could do research works easily. “Scholars face difficulties to be in the department as they do not have any common room. They have either to roam or to sit in any of the teachers’ room. A common room with library and Internet facilities will attract the scholars to come to the department and will also be helpful for them to conduct their research works smoothly,” said Joydeep Goswami, secretary, AURSA. Goswami also pressed for separate hostel accommodation for the outsiders. “If the outside scholars get accommodation in the hostel, they can regularly be present in their respective departments and can conduct a quality research work.” The Association also demanded not to withdraw the non NET scholarship.

However, the Association expressed its gratitude to the authority for fulfilling its earlier demand of providing a separate university bus for the M.Phil and PhD scholars from Silchar.

Source: The Sentinel 13.08.2013

Dilapidated Silchar-Assam University Road

Mass convention to intensify movement

Improvement of Silchar–Assam University road

SILCHAR, August 12: In order to finalize an action plan to intensify the movement for the improvement of dilapidated Silchar–Assam University road, a mass convention is convened at Netaji Subash Mancha in the varsity campus tomorrow.

The teachers, non–teaching staff members, students and the locals are invited to participate in the convention convened by the Joint Action Committee and offer valued suggestions.

The nearly 22km stretch, connecting Silchar and Assam University has been ill–maintained for the last few years. The dilapidated condition of the road has put thousands of students and other commuters in difficulty as they have to endure slush when it rains and choke on the dust during the dry season. Ratnadeep Deb, President, Assam University Research Scholars’ Association (AURSA) said notwithstanding numerous representations by the students’ associations and social organizations, no serious step has been initiated by the District Administration. Peeved at the “indifferent” attitude of the administration, the members of Joint Action Committee on last Thursday had laid siege to the office of the Deputy Commissioners, demanding immediate steps to mitigate the problem.

Deb said that when the former President, Dr. A P J Abdul Kalam, visited the varsity in March, the department concerned was indulged in jury rigging repair works in order to ensure his smooth journey. But, the repair works did not last long and the road turned in its original shape within a few days. Abhijit Mishra, a resident of Irongmara, located near the varsity, said that it would be inappropriate to call it the university road as thousands of local people use it daily as a thoroughfare. Every day a large number of vehicles including heavy trucks, public buses ply on this road with great risk, he added.

Amit Nag, a student of Law department, said that most of the students who travelled by this road are suffering from different ailments like backache, spondylitis, severe dust allergy among other. “It has now become very difficult to study at home after returning from the varsity. Though the condition of the road is worsening day by day, but the authorities concerned appear to remain insensitive to the woes of road users,” he fumed.

The pathetic condition of the road leading to university from town has been incompatible with the reputation of a central university and a matter of not only shame but also disgrace.

Source: The Sentinel 13.08.2013

Demand for separate state of Bodoland at Assam University Silchar

Bodoland echo in Cachar

SILCHAR, August 12: A rally was organized by Assam University Silchar unit of All Bodo Students’ Union, demanding a separate state of Bodoland here today. The rally started from Gandhi Bagh and converged before the office of the Deputy Commissioner. A delegation of ABSU led by Dhananjay Basumatary, president, and Tempest Daimary, secretary, Students’ Union, submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner, Gokul Mohan Hazarika, addressed to Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh. Despite their hectic academic time table, Bodo students from Assam University, National Institute of Technology, Silchar Medical College, Polytechnic as well as members of the community living across Barak Valley come out to support the rally.

ABSU strongly urged the Government of India to bring about a permanent solution to the long pending demand for Bodoland on the pattern of Telangana and to preserve national integrity of the country. The organization raises the question as to why the articles 2 and 3 of the Indian Constitution are not applicable in the case of Bodoland. The leaders claimed that the creation of Bodoland neither violates any provision of the Indian Constitution nor contravenes the spirit of national integrity. On the contrary, it resembles the socio–cultural diversity of the country. ABSU leaders further claimed that the movement for separate state of Bodoland was initiated many decades ago and was the result of continuous socio–cultural, economic and political discriminations of the region by the Government of India as well as the Government of Assam. Dhananjay Basumatary added to say that the mass movement of the ABSU for the separate state of Bodoland would continue in its different democratic forms until and unless there was a permanent solution to the problem and a society free from exploitation, suppression, oppression and hegemony was established.

Source: The Sentinel 13.08.2013

Movement against branding of Bengalis as ’D’ voters in Assam

Citizens’ meet resolves to launch movement against branding of Bengalis as ’D’ voters

SILCHAR, August 11: In order to chalk out the strategies to fight against the branding of Bengalis as ‘D’ voters in a whimsical manner, a citizens’ meet was convened at Gandhi Bhavan here today. The meet, attended by the people of all walks of life, resolved to launch massive movement against the unnecessary harassment of people in the name of ‘D’ voters in the State.

The meet was divided into two parts. The first part was sieged with deliberations and discussions and the second part with specific resolutions to arrive at definite conclusions. Several distinguished citizens of this town and beyond took part in the deliberations and offered their valued suggestions as well as opinions.

Addressing the assembly of citizens, Dr Kumar Kanti Das, one of the conveners of the meet, said the ‘D’ voter issue has become a matter of serious concern as it has been affecting people in the three districts of Cachar, Karimganj and Hailakandi along with all other parts of Assam. Till date, many persons belonging to lower class families in particular have been served with notices to prove their bonafide as Indian citizens. In many cases, even without notices, police has been involved in a sort of ‘witch–hunting’, branding Indian citizens as Bangladeshis and even sending them to detention camps for push back.

A movement in a coordinated manner involving all sections of people has to be chalked out and launched in order to pressure the Centre and the State for a reasonable and permanent solution, he said while briefing the objectives of today’s meet.

Paritosh Paul Chowdhury, a senior journalist and a social activist, said that the Bengalis in particular in Assam have been unnecessarily harassed in the name of ‘D’ voter since long despite of being the ‘legitimate’ citizens of the country. He said notices are being sent without citing any proper reasons to the people to prove themselves as the citizens and later they are being harassed and tortured by the police which he described as “very much unfortunate.”

Binodlal Chakraborty, a distinguished citizen, said that all the political leaders of the past and present did not have any interest to address the issue. Citing different examples, he said that even Gopinath Bordoloi did not want to include this region in the State of Assam. He took the opportunity to say that “the Prime Minister of India, Dr Manmohan Singh is also a ‘refugee’ but nobody like to say this. It is only in the case of Bengalis, the terms like refugee, immigrant and ‘D’ voter are used.”

He pointed out the Hindu Bengalis in particular have been forced to migrate from their hearths and homes from East Pakistan, now Bangladesh, and take shelter in Assam and other States of the country. The Hindu Bengalis who needed to be protected after their migration from Bangladesh have been treated like the infiltrators and branded ‘D’ voters and even sent to detention camps and pushed back, he added.

Joydip Biswas, assistant professor of Economics, Cachar College, who compered the meeting, expressed his concern at the way people are being harassed in the name of ‘D’ voters. He cited the statistics given by Rockybul Hussain, Forest Minister, on the floor of the Assembly on July 15 according to which till March, 2013, out of total 2,31,657 cases, 91,159 cases were dissolved out of which only 7,152 were actually found ‘D’ voter. These figures only reveal how the people were being harassed as the conviction rate is only around eight per cent, he lamented. At the outset, he set the perfect ambience for the discussion, citing the history of the ‘D’ voter issue and its affect on the people.

Nihar Ranjan Das of ‘Swajan’, an NGO, which has been fighting for the cause of the ‘D’ voters, who is a lawyer by profession, said that when the rest of the country has been adhering to the Foreigners’ Act of 1946, Assam has its own legislation starting from the Illegal Immigrants (Expulsion from Assam) Act of 1950 down to the most controversial Illegal Migrants (Determination by Tribunal) Act of 1983. These have only gone to confound and complicate the foreigners’ issue instead of evolving any solution.

He pointed out that in order to protect these unfortunate victims of forced migration from Bangladesh in particular, the ‘Swajan’ along with All India Adhivakta Parishad had filed a writ petition in the Supreme Court of India which, as he said, has recently issued notice to 18 States including the Centre and Assam to reply on the status being granted to all such migrated people in respective States. Das expressed his hope that the SC would give the verdict on their favour.

All the speakers in an identical manner underlined the importance of a mass movement against such “draconian” rule of the Assam Government.

The meeting was jointly convened by Sundari Mohan Seva Bhavan and Srikona Club.

In the meantime, Barindra Das, a resident of Katigorah, who was recently released from the charges of being ‘D’ voter by the Foreigners’ Tribunal of Silchar, also shared his personal experiences with the gathering.

Later, a committee involving distinguished citizens was formed which will finalize the future course of movement. Among others who spoke on the occasion included Dr Ramaprasad Biswas, Dr Sourindra Bhattacharjee, etc.

Source: The Sentinel 12.08.2013

Anniversary of the martyrdom of Swahid Khudiram Bose in Silchar

Martyrdom of Khudiram Bose observed in Silchar

SILCHAR, August 11: Braving the heavy downpour, Swahid Khudiram Murti Pratistha Committee of Silchar observed 105th anniversary of the martyrdom of Swahid Khudiram Bose here today in a befitting manner.

The day began with offering of flowers and homage to the statue of the martyr located at Club Road of this town which was followed by discussion on the life of Khudiram and cultural performances.

Pradip Kumar Deb, secretary of the Committee, underlined the importance of observing the day. He said that Bose was one of the legendary freedom fighters whose life was snuffed out even before he could complete 19 years of age.

He added to say that the patriotism of Bose and his sacrifices for the country with the goal of achieving total freedom from the British colonial rule had become a part of the glorious and revolutionary history. He was sent to the gallows on August 11, 2008 for challenging the British authority with the exemplary spirit of chivalry and unparalleled determination.

Deb pointed out following his untimely death, the song Ekbar Biday De Maa Ghure Aashi stirred the hearts of people across the country. The inspiring but melancholic notes of that song touched the soul of every patriotic Indian and motivated them to plunge into the freedom struggle.

Pradip Kumar Deb narrated the incident for which Khudiram Bose was sentenced to death by the British government.

Later, members of Pathikrit Shilpi Gusthi rendered patriotic songs in the memory of the great martyr of the country.

Source: The Sentinel 12.08.2013

Keshav Smarak Samiti–Pritam Bhattacharjee Memorial Fund

In memory of Pritam Bhattacharjee

SILCHAR, August 10: In order to perpetuate the memory of Pritam Bhattacharjee, a meritorious student and research scholar of this town, a move has been initiated to create “Keshav Smarak Samiti–Pritam Bhattacharjee Memorial Fund” by his father Dr Sankar Bhattacharjee, retired principal of Women’s College, for awarding gold medal, mementos and cash prizes to three deserving students of Barak Valley. This memorial function will be held in a most serene and sublime atmosphere at 4.30 pm on Sunday in the Guru Charan College Auditorium. Dr Sankar Bhattacharjee is the president of Keshav Smarak Samiti.

Prof Somnath Das Gupta, Vice–Chancellor of Assam University, will adorn the chair of the chief–guest of the programme, while Atin Das, senior journalist and poet will preside over the event. Dipak Bhattacharjee, ex–MLA and president, “Justice for Pritam Forum” and Dr NC Malakar, Principal in charge, GC College, will be the guests of honour.

It is to be recollected that it was just a year ago that Pritam Bhattacharjee who was travelling to Delhi from Guwahati, a brilliant student of Physics of Gauhati University, in connection with his research work by an express train, was forcefully made to get down from the train at Naugachia station in Bihar and later on brutally murdered.

Source: The Sentinel 11.08.2013

ACKHSA demand for Barak Land a separate state

Statehood demand for Barak Valley, ACKHSA to launch mass movement

SILCHAR, August 10: The ripples of the ongoing separatist movements across Northeast are being felt in Barak Valley with the organizations pitching for separate Barak land, bifurcating Assam.

All Cachar Karimganj Hailakandi Students’ Association (ACKHSA) in association with different organizations will launch a mass movement across the valley in support of statehood demand from this month.

Addressing a press meet held here this evening, Rupam Nandi Purkayastha, adviser, said that the people of Barak Valley have always been deprived and neglected by both the State and the Centre. Almost all the major projects in Barak Valley are being lingering having no assistance from the governments. Two major projects – Silchar Lumding BG and East–West Corridor have been dragging its feet year after year with volley of promises and assurances about which people are no more convinced, he added. “It is high time to raise our voice against all sorts of discriminations. We will mount a democratic movement across the valley for statehood demand just after August 15,” said Rupam adding that they will fight to last in support of their demand.

Citing the undue delay of two major projects – Silchar–Lumding BG and East–West Corridor, he said that the progress of development in Barak Valley has come to a halt owing to the “lackadaisical attitude” of the government. He said that Delhi and Dispur are least bothered about the completion of different pending projects which according to him would pace the overall development of the region.

Coming down heavily on the two MPs and fifteen MLAs, Asit Debroy, president of ACKHSA, said that the elected representatives of Barak Valley have to learn from the two MPs of BTAD who despite being an allied with the Congress raised their demand for separate state on the floor of the Parliament.

“Our elected representatives are least bothered about the development of their constituencies. They have hardly raised any problems of this region in Delhi.” He added to say that the silence of the MLAs and MPs indicate that they have an unholy nexus with the syndicate being active to scuttle the development projects.

Supporting the demand of ACKHSA, its adviser and founder secretary Anup Chowdhury said the grounds on which Telengana has been given the status of a separate state justify the statehood demand for Barak Valley which was raised just after the independence. Moreover, this valley has been completely different geologically, linguistically and culturally from Assam, he added.

Throwing light on the sources of revenue generation, Chowdhury said that tea gardens are a huge revenue sources, besides the valley is flooded with adequate natural resources. Soon after the decision of the Centre on Telangana, Barak Upothakya Banga Sahitya O Sanskritik Sammelan, has pitched its demand for the formation of Autonomous Economic Development Council for Barak Valley. On the other hand, the Union Territory Demand Committee (UTDC) led by veteran journalist Paritosh Paul Chowdhury has reiterated its demand for making Barak “a union territory”.

The leaders of ACKHSA today regretted that even after 66 years of independence, the people of this southernmost river valley have to go to the State Capital by plying over another State. They also expressed concern if the Karbi–Anglong and Dima Hasao were given the status of a state or ‘state within a state’ being the tribal dominated districts, the plight and anguish of the people of Barak Valley will be doubled.

Source: The Sentinel 11.08.2013

Bandh (Strike) in Lakhipur, Silchar, Assam

72 hour bandh called over Lakhipur road

SILCHAR, August 10: Network of roads across Barak Valley are in a bad shape and despite media focus on it, there is little action from the PWD (NH) or Rural division. Lakhipur sub division is no exception. Public complaints and agitations for improvement of roads from time to time have no effect on the authorities concerned. Presently, people are very much agitated over the deteriorating condition of the vital Lakhipur–Ramnagar–Amjurghat road which is a vital link that connects NH 37, earlier NH 53.

According to information from the sub divisional headquarters of Lakhipur, in protest against the indifferent and callous attitude of the administration and the PWD (Rural), people of the areas covering besides Ramnagar, Amjurghat and Binnakandie along with the clusters of villages around under the banner of ‘South Barak Road Development Committee’ have given call for 72 hour bandh beginning from the sunset of Friday. The bandh will end at 5 pm of Monday.

The bandh, according to Mukesh Singh, president of South Barak Road Development Committee, has evoked spontaneous response from all sections of people and it continues without any breach of peace. Movement of all sorts of vehicular traffic through the 15 km long road has come to a standstill. All shops, big and small, commercial banks, State government offices, schools and a lone college in the area have remained closed. Normal life has been affected. But, people have willingly opted for the inconvenience to shake up the PWD (Rural) division of Cachar.

Nazrul Islam Barbhuiya, a resident of Amjurghat, said it is most pathetic that the people have been using the road in such dilapidated condition for the last 10 years. Nobody knows how much fund has been allotted or used for its improvement. All that remains are potholes and craters. PWD executive engineer, local residents say, has been feeding them with assurances only. Their representative of the area, Dinesh Prasad Goala, can hardly be contacted to know about any plan and estimate. It has been the expectation that in view of the coming Parliamentary elections, there will be definite information about any plan to improve the road.

Ghurni Singh, journalist of Lakhipur, said the sub divisional officer, Nabarun Bhattacharjee, and sub divisional police officer, Anjan Pandit, visited the area, met the people and urged upon them to maintain peace and tranquility. They did support the cause behind the bandh. In fact, it is one of the main roads of the sub division that works as a feeder to connect important places including Silchar, Jirighat and Jiribam in Manipur.

Kanta Singh, secretary of South Barak Road Development Committee, said the decision to go for 72 hour bandh was endorsed at a public meeting and it was decided that if no tangible result emerged even after this agitation, further course of action would be taken up after due deliberations and review of the situation. He was however hopeful that the civil administration and the PWD (Rural) would respond and initiate positive action by addressing the mounting public grievances.

Source: The Sentinel 11.08.2013

Muslims across Barak Valley has geared up to celebrate Eid–ul–Fitr

Barak Valley gears up to celebrate Eid–ul–Fitr today

SILCHAR, August 8: In sync with other parts of the country, Muslims across Barak Valley has geared up to celebrate Eid–ul–Fitr tomorrow. This is in accordance with the decision taken by various moon sighting committees in the country, besides the declaration from the Hilal Committee of Cachar.

Mosques, both in the urban and rural areas of the valley, have been spruced up, well decorated and illuminated for the holiest of holy occasion. Different areas have been brightly illuminated and the streets have been decorated with banners and flags.

Dahar Mazumder, secretary of Bara Masjid, told The Sentinel over telephone, “Today is the 30th Ramzan – the holy month of fasting and Eid–ul–Fitr will be celebrated tomorrow.”

He said the celebration throughout the three districts of Cachar, Karimganj and Hailakandi would be strictly on the basis of the tenets of Islam. All care would be taken to maintain the religious sanctity, besides adherence to the spirit of self–restraint.

Abdul Hoque Barbhuiya, a school teacher, explained that Ramzan fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam alongside the belief in the ‘Oneness of God’, the finality of the prophet–hood of Mohammed, establishment of the daily prayers, concern for and alms giving to the needy, and the lesser pilgrimage to Mecca for those who are able.

He added to say Eid ul–Fitr is one of the two biggest Muslim holidays of the year, often compared to Christmas in its significance and revelry. The other major holiday is the sacrificial feast of Eid–ul–Zuha, at the end of the Haj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca. Muslims fill the mosques early in the morning to attend the congregational Eid prayers.

The different shops of the town today are seen crowded with men, women and children busy in shopping and buying essentials like new clothes, shoes, ornaments, sweets, bangles, cards among others.

However, Rashid Ali, a sweet–meat vendor of Fatak Bazar, the main trade centre of this town, said compared to other occasions in the past, he could not do good business. He attributed the phenomenon to the hard economic condition of general Muslims and their low purchasing power.

Akhtar Tapadar, owner of a cap house, also spoke of depressed business on the sale of caps, perfumes and also ‘mousala’, known as ‘jainamaz’, the latter is used by the devout Muslims to sit while offering prayers. From his shop are also available beads and other various items for the holy Ramzan.

According to the sources, the Eid prayers at Itakhola Idgah will be held at 8.30 am and it will be conducted by Imam Maulana Shabbir Ahmed of Silchar Bara Masjid. Moulana Nurul Hoque Talukdar, principal, Silchar Alia Madrasa, will conduct the Eid prayers at College Road Idgha. Source: The Sentinel 09.08.2013

Autonomous Economic Development Council for Barak Valley

Barak Banga reiterates its demand for autonomous economic development council

SILCHAR, August 8: Barak Upatyaka Banga Sahitya O Sanskriti Sammelan (BUBSOSS) has reiterated its demand for the formation of Autonomous Economic Development Council for Barak Valley. It has at the same time welcomed the initiative of Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi for inviting the various organizations on agitation in order to acquaint himself with their areas of resentment in the context of Telangana and the resultant situation in the State.

Gautom Prasad Dutta, general secretary, BUBSOSS, central executive committee, said in a clear and loud manner that “time has come for Dispur to pay proper attention to the growing public demand for a development council” and any attempt on the part of the State government to dilute or ignore it would not be justified, he cautioned. He said the indifferent and discriminatory attitude of the State government towards the burning issues and problems of this valley had been responsible for its glaring economic backwardness.

The general secretary spoke of the mounting anger and anguish of people of the south Assam on legitimate grounds and further stated if no proper steps were taken, it might take a volatile shape. He reminded the demand for Autonomous Economic Development Council as raised by the Barak Banga was not a new one, but hanging for several years.

Gautom Prasad Dutta at the same time expressed his serious concern at the continuing blockades and strikes in lower Assam and its adverse impact on the land–locked region of Barak Valley. He was of the opinion that the agitation and movement of various groups and organizations clamouring for separation was the culmination of several factors which were more than apparent. Similar situation was enveloping in this region also.

Dutta said the strategic geo–physic location of this valley from all reckoning called for infrastructure development, industrialization, agrarian boost up, employment opportunities, use of Bengali as official language as per Assam Official Language Act, protection of language and culture. But, sadly enough, despite repeated pleas before the State, there was no tangible result. The valley people had to be content with promises and assurances of “equal and fair development” along with the rest of the State.

Gautom Prasad Dutta recalled the meeting of the BUBSOSS members with Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi at Dispur on April 25 where the problems of Barak Valley were highlighted and discussed. It was pointed out how the two important projects, Silchar–Lumding BG and East–West Corridor, were still under cloud.

The inter valley communication network was in bad shape. Demand was also put forth for transit facility through Bangladesh. It was also hammered that representatives of Barak Valley should be included in the ongoing Centre–ULFA dialogue.

For the overall development of this valley, formation of an economic development council with autonomy was the way out and in this regard, the intervention of the Chief Minister was sought. But, till date, no positive step was visible from Dispur. Gautom Prasad Dutta giving a detailed account of the backdrop since 2005 said that the demand for autonomous council was raised at a mass convention at the behest of BUBSOSS at Karimganj on December 18 of the year. Subsequently, memorandum on the demand was submitted to the Centre and the State. In favour of the demand, the multi–lingual coordination committee formed in 2005 held conventions at Karimganj, Hailakandi and Silchar at different times.

The Chief Minister did give assurance of sympathetic consideration of Autonomous Economic Development Council which BUBSOSS felt was the best option and solution for all the ills of this valley. He also said various civil bodies, political parties, trade unions as well as social organizations were backing up BUBSOSS and its demand. He expected positive response from Dispur which if ignored might lead to a volatile situation.

Source: The Sentinel

Forest resources being illegally exploited across Barak Valley, Assam

Forest resources being illegally exploited

SILCHAR, August 6: Exploitation of forest resources across Barak Valley by mafias and smugglers is not a new phenomenon. But, of late, their frequency and exploitation has shown a rising trend. During monsoon when rivers and rivulets are full, it becomes easier to smuggle out timbers of felled trees and uprooted bamboos and deliver them to their destinations. This is the well known modus–operandi.

Along with these timbers and bamboos, sands, stones and even their chips are being illegally extracted from river beds and taken to various places for commercial gains. In the process, the revenues to be earned by the forest department go unrealized. The syndicates of mafias and smugglers, in fact, rule the roost. Their political patronage and protection have also come to light.

In view of the mounting public criticism and allegation against the indifferent and callous attitude of the forest department to take tough and firm action against those involved in illegal business of forest resources, a mid night operation was launched by the Cachar division. During the operation carried out by the protection wing headed by Debashis Chakraborty, ranger, in the Rongpur area on the northern fringe of this town across river Barak, 8 trucks were detained. Of these trucks, 4 were loaded with sands, 2 each with bamboos and stone chips. After preliminary investigation, it was found that all these trucks were carrying the materials without any valid permits.

The trucks were brought down to the office of the Cachar Forest Division here and after cross–examination of the drivers and assistants, it came out that Udharband and Borkhola constituencies located down the foothills of Borail have become the hotspot of forest mafias and smugglers. After the ban on quarrying at Madhura by Gauhati High Court, the mafias have turned their attention to Kachuthal and Balacherra quarries. It is from these areas that other forest resources are also being taken out unauthorizedly, according to knowledgeable circles.

Though the divisional forest officer, Rajib Das, spoke of initiating action against the 8 trucks detained, it was revealed subsequently that a trader dealing with forest resources and close to a minister became active to release them and hush up the matter. An insider in the department admitted it. It was therefore clear that under political protection and patronage, illegal business in forest resources has been going on.

It is not only the Kachuthal and Balacherra, information as gathered refers to Jalenga sand quarry under Dwarband police station of Cachar. Local people allege that despite ban on extracting sands from Jalenga, the smugglers continue to take out sands and with the help of trucks deliver them to their destinations. A part of the sands find their way to Mizoram. A rough estimate says that every day 6 to 7 lorries full of sands from Jalenga area with its two rivers, Sonacherra and Balicherra, are seen moving. This illegal business in sands is also controlled by an influential businessman of this town with political back up. During dry season, it is alleged that nearly 40 trucks with sands from the area move in different directions.

The public allegations of ferrying timbers and bamboos through the Sonai and Barak rivers from the forests in and around Bhuban hills on the eastern front of Cachar along the border of Manipur are also galore. This has been going on for a long time. Often the mafias and smugglers adopt surreptitious and deceptive methods to ferry the timbers and bamboos. These are then delivered to saw mills dotting the river side of this town. Besides, according to knowledgeable circles, the bamboos in particular are taken to Cachar Paper Mill. All this illegal business goes on without check at the cost of the forest department which loses its due and huge revenues.

Debashis Chakraborty, ranger of Cachar Forest Division, admitted the illegal business and said they also want to stop it and for that vigilance and patrolling have been mounted. He at the same time spoke of the lack of mobility on the part of the department to keep a close watch on the smuggling of forest materials through riverine routes. The forest division has no mechanical speed boats to meet the challenges of the forest mafias. Till the division is well equipped and unless political protection ends, illegal exploitation of forest resources will continue.

Source: The Sentinel 07.08.2013

Assam D’ voters issue now before the Supreme Court

D’ voters issue at citizens’ meet

SILCHAR, August 6: Though the issue of ‘D’ voters is now before the Apex Court of India, it continues to haunt the civil society. A discussion on this most emotive and sensitive issue is slated at the citizens’ meet convened jointly by Sundari Mohan Seva Bhawan and Srikona Club on August 11 at Gandhi Bhawan. It will be divided into two sessions. The first part will be sieged with deliberations and discussions and the second part with specific resolutions to arrive at definite conclusion.

Dr Kumar Kanti Das, one of the convenors, said the ‘D’ voter issue has become a matter of serious concern as it has been affecting people in the three districts of Cachar, Karimganj and Hailakandi along with all other parts of Assam. Till date, many persons belonging to lower class families in particular have been served with notices to prove their bonafide as Indian citizens. In many cases, even without notices, police has been involved in a sort of ‘witch–hunting’, branding Indian citizens as Bangladeshis and even sending them to detention camps for push back. It has been the consensus that notwithstanding the Writ Petition on the issue before the Supreme Court, a movement in a coordinated manner involving all sections of people has to be chalked out and launched in order to pressure the Centre and the State for a reasonable and permanent solution. All the citizens of this town and beyond have been invited to take part in the deliberations and offer their valued suggestions as well as opinions.

Source: The Sentinel 07.08.2013

BJP on CBI inquiry into Cachar Zilla Parishad scandal and Banhishikha Dutta

Cachar BJP determined to cause CBI inquiry into Cachar Zilla Parishad scandal

SILCHAR, August 6: Cachar district BJP will not rest till it has exposed to the hilt the magnitude and dimension of development fund embezzlement of Cachar Zilla Parishad, pointed out Kaushik Rai, President of the district committee. He said party workers and leaders would stage sit in demonstration before the office of the Zilla Parishad on August 21 in order to highlight the politician–bureaucrat nexus in the siphoning of huge funds. The objective is to pressure the state government to cause CBI inquiry.

It is to be recollected that last June 12, BJP leaders and workers stormed into the office of the Zilla Parishad, brought down its flag and burnt it, occupied the chairs after driving out the officials and employees of different levels. On July 31, a delegation of BJP leaders met the Governor of Assam, J B Patnaik, and submitted a memorandum to him, detailing the enormous development funds of Zilla Parishad having been embezzled and the former CEO, Banhishikha Dutta, being the kingpin of it. They also impressed upon the governor for the CBI inquiry.

In the meantime, a report of the District Vigilance and Monitoring Committee submitted by the present CEO in charge Swapan Kumar Das, ADC, has revealed siphoning of Rs. 19.40 crore from the development funds of the Zilla Parishad. The amount of money embezzled in gross violation of all rules, regulations and procedures, the report says, might be double and even more than what has been brought out. Kabindra Purkayastha, MP and Chairman of the Vigilance and Monitoring Committee, has suggested CBI inquiry. The report at the same time stresses that the accused and guilty involved in the embezzlement of funds should be made to pay back the amounts individually siphoned off by them. Their properties, movable and immovable, should be mortgaged and bank accounts sealed, it has also been suggested. Within a fortnight, it has been learned that the audit team of State CID will reach here from Guwahati and investigate the corruptions and its level in Zilla Parishad. So far, it has been brought forth from the report of the Vigilance and Monitoring Committee that the amount of Rs 19.40 crore siphoned off is not the total picture of corruption. This has been under the funds allotted under Fourth Assam Finance, National Social Assistance Programme and Third Assam Finance only. The assessment of level of corruptions under Twelfth Finance Commission, Eleventh Finance Commission, Backward Region Fund and District Development Programme is yet to be done.

An idea of how funds have been simply lifted and pocketed by the vicious circles headed by Banhishikha Dutta, former CEO, can well be understood from the fact that Rs 6.68 crore under Fourth Assam Finance during 2011–12 earmarked for the construction of GP offices, Rs 3.52 crore under National Social Assistance Programme during 2012–13 have been siphoned off. And the highest amount of Rs 9.20 crore allotted for construction of 115 community halls during 2011–12 has also been embezzled without any construction.

Source: The Sentinel (07.08.2013)

Pathetic situation of Primary education in Barak Valley

Primary education in a mess

SILCHAR, August 5: Endless allegations against the mismanagement and chaotic scenario prevailing in respect of primary education from different blocks of Barak Valley have become a common affair with no remedial action in sight from the authorities concerned. In one of the series of complaints by a civil body under the banner of ‘Sangrami Aikya Mancha’ of Patharkandi, it has been pointed out that primary education in the Patharkandi block of Karimganj district has been in a mess.

With facts and figures, the president of the Mancha, M A U Talukdar, has shown that in most of the LP and EGS (Education Guarantee Scheme) schools, there are no teachers. He has also identified these schools by their names and numbers. These are 421 Kurti LP School, 946 Dighirpar LP School, 931 Janglibasti LP School, 818 Balicherrapar LP School, 827 Tilbhum Hindi LP School, 550 Madhurband LP School, 1037 Janta LP School, 407 Harinagar LP School.

Continuing he also added to the list 900 Ratalala LP School, 740 Eralibul LP School, 721 Sizarilabad LP School, 836 Islampur LP School, 535 Kadamtilla LP School, 575 Bandarkona LP School and 1070 Lokkalyan LP School. Among the EGS Schools, he listed Uttarchagalmuwa, Borcherra, Sonatala, Mainamala, Banglatilla, Sonarpar and Alinagar. Besides, as he said the number of such LP and EGS schools is more. M A U Talukdar pointed out it is very strange that despite all the talks of reaching primary education to every child under Right To Education (RTE), the ground reality should be so disappointing. There has been no adjustment of teachers in the schools where vacancy exists and the government has formulated specific policy and guidelines in this respect, he added to say. These schools in question have been rather closed and the children of rural areas are deprived of their basic education.

The President further said if the block elementary education officer of the area has taken to rationalization in respect of adjustment of teachers, the problem could have been resolved. Schools would not have been without teachers. However, the former BEEO said even after adjustment, more than half of the schools in the block have remained without teachers. It has become a common phenomenon to run the schools by the managing committees by hiring teachers. But, the authorities concerned have never been serious about it. Sangrami Aikya Mancha has threatened to go for agitation if no concrete steps are taken to remedy the situation, considering the fact that at stake is the education and future of children.

Source: The Sentinel 06.08.2013

Pratul Mukherjee, will hold a musical night in Silchar

Pratul Mukherjee to hold musical night

SILCHAR, August 5: The famous singer from Kolkata, Pratul Mukherjee, will hold a musical night at district library auditorium here on August 20. The event is being organized by Pathikrit Shilpi Ghusti, a cultural organization of the town, to celebrate its second anniversary.

The maestro known for his famous songs like aami Banglay gaan gai, amra dhan katar gaan gai will give a solo performance.

Prasanta Bhattacharjee, Secretary of Pathikrit Shilpi Ghusti, said that there will be no ticket system and the entire show will be free of cost. He, however, added that the entire expenditure of the artiste will be borne by the organization.

“We want to offer a quality musical night to the people of this valley. We do not want to make the event only for rich people who can afford to buy a ticket. Any person can enjoy the event irrespective of one’s financial status,” he said.

Bhattacharjee said that Dipankar Gupta, Secretary, All Bengal Nazrul Sahitya Parishad, Kolkata, would be the main speaker of the evening. He will throw light on the several aspects of music and culture.

Meanwhile, Pathikrit Shilpi Ghusti organized several competitions to encourage the children. The events included art competition, song competition, dance and recitation. Every event was divided into four groups. The prizes will be given to the winners on August 20.

Biswaraj Bhattacharjee and Anindita Bhattacharjee were the judges for song competition, Mili Sinha and Champa Bhattacharjee were the judges for dance competition and Rajib Bhattacharjee and Balaram Dey were two judges for recitation. The participants of various age groups from different schools of Barak Valley participated in these competitions. Source: The Sentinel 06.08.2013

Lakhipur town and Binnakandi ghat

Lakhipur administration’s drive against encroachment

SILCHAR, August 5: Under persistent public demand, Lakhipur administration has at last initiated drive against encroachment, unauthorized shops, illicit liquor sales points, random parking of vehicles, all sorts of gambling and other social evils. Petty vendors and shops have encroached upon footpaths and roads, thereby creating obstacles in the movement of pedestrians and vehicular traffic, besides congestion. All these often result in accident, sometime fatal.

Apart from encroachment, another serious problem against which various organizations have been voicing their concern and even hitting the streets in protest are the mushrooming of illicit liquor shops and open gambling. The youths in particular are being encouraged to take recourse to such evil habits. Women bodies in particular have been quite vociferous for tough action by the civil administration for a long time.

As the menace of encroachment, illicit liquor sale and consumption as well as gambling has assumed, the civil administration of Lakhipur in coordination with police and CRPF after carrying out operation in and around the town a week ago has targeted Binnakandie ghat today. Binnakandie ghat has been in focus for all sorts of illegal activities.

The Lakhipur town and Binnakandi ghat in the suburb have been made free from illegal encroachment and unauthorized parking. Illicit liquor dens and gambling spots have been raided and demolished. Circle Officer, Ruth Lienthang, said over telephone from the sub divisional town of Lakhipur, “The operations at Lakhipur and Binnakandie ghat have been widely supported by all sections of people. There has been no protest or resistance.” People wanted it and we did it, she added to say. In this operation, she was assisted by SDPO, Anjan Pandit, as well as GP president of Binnakandie, Bimala Devi.

Ruth Lienthang pointed out the road has now been widened and people can easily move through. She expects traffic jam, a daily affair, will also ease. She also has a word of caution if there is repetition of encroachment and illegal parking, the administration will be more strict to deal with it. She has also sent the signal against any move to revive the illicit liquor shops and gambling points.

Source: The Sentinel 06.08.2013

Embezzlement of funds in Silchar–Lumding Broad–Gauge construction project

ABYSA alleges embezzlement of crores of funds in Silchar–Lumding BG construction

SILCHAR, August 5: All Barak Youth Students’ Association (ABYSA) alleged embezzlement of more than one thousand crores in the construction of Silchar–Lumding broad–gauge during the last seventeen years.

Addressing a press meet held here recently, ABYSA’s chief convener Baharul Islam Barbuiya said that a syndicate of some railway officials, political leaders and the members of construction agency entrusted with the work to scuttle the project. This syndicate is involved behind the undue delay of the completion of much awaited gauge conversion work.

Baharul said that a total of Rs 648 crore was allocated in the initial phase during 1996–97 financial year as the project cost which had now shot up to Rs 4255 crore. According to the railway department, till March this year a total of Rs 3433 crores and 79 lakhs was allocated for the construction of 421 kilometer gauge conversion project. The website of the railway department further states that only 69 per cent of the total work was completed by March. “Although 80 per cent of total funds were allocated, but only 69 percent of the work was completed. The adequate funds are there, but the project is dragging its feat year after year. It is quite clear now that more than one thousand crore was embezzled in the construction of gauge conversion project by the syndicate,” Baharul alleged.

Taking a dig at the political leaders of Barak Valley for maintaining “intriguing silence” for the expeditious completion of broad gauge works, he said that all the political parties only raise the issue of broad–gauge on the eve elections. “They indulge in dirty politics in the name of broad gauge during the election campaign in order to get votes,” he alleged.

ABYSA warned the political leaders to refrain from doing “dirty politics” over broad–gauge in the next year’s Parliamentary elections. Among others present at the press meet included Amalava Das, Abdul Rezzaq Barbhuiya, Mustafa Ahmed Laskar.

Source: The Sentinel 06.08.2013

Kokrajhar bandh (strike) by AKRSU, ABSU, PJACBM - Bodoland Movement

Violent mars during AKRSU bandh in Kokrajhar

KOKRAJHAR, Aug 2: The 36–hours Assam bandh call given by the All Koch–Rajbongshi Students’ Union (AKRSU) demanding the creation of separate state of Kamatapur passed off with some violent activities in Kokrajhar district on Friday. There have been reports of burning down of some light vehicles and motorcycles especially in Bhaoraguri in Gossaigaon sub division of the district. Most of the shops and business establishments were seen closed on Friday while all long distance vehicles went off the road. All the private buses and other passenger carriers were hired by the ABSU to ferry supporters to block the railway at Kokrajhar railway station where thousands from all corners of different districts took part in the blockade. The region continued to witness the bandh call given by different organizations. The ABSU, AKRSU, People’s Joint Action Committee for Bodoland Movement (PJACBM) have already announced their agitational programmes which includes 60 hours to 1,500 hours bandh from August 5 in support of demanding separate state. The region is also likely to see the boiling situation after the isolated decision of the UPA government on creation of Telengana state.

Source: The Sentinel 05.08.2013

ACKHSA on Silchar-Lumding gauge conversion project & compensation to the people of Dima Hasao

ACKHSA on Silchar-Lumding gauge conversion project & compensation to the people of Dima Hasao 

ACKHSA urges Centre for immediate rehabilitation of affected people

SILCHAR, August 4: All Cachar Karimganj Hailakandi Students’ Association (ACKHSA) expressed its concern at the negligent attitude of the Union Railway Ministry in granting compensation to the people of Dima Hasao whose land and property was acquired by the NF Railway for the uni–gauge conversion project.

In a memorandum addressed to Mallikarjun Kharge, Union Minister of Railways, the students’ body said that the inordinate delay in clearing the payment of compensation for rehabilitation of the affected people who were rendered landless and homeless owing to land acquisition speaks of the Centre’s “apathetic policy” towards the Northeast. Even the Government of Assam is also callous in mitigating the agonies and suffering of the people as is evident from its intriguing silence in the matter.

Asit Debroy, President, ACKHSA said that the lands and properties of the inhabitants of Dima Hasao were acquired by the NF Railway with the assurance of proper rehabilitation. But, the affected people surprisingly were not compensated till now.

“We have been given to understand that the people under the banner of ‘Affected People Rehabilitation Committee’ led by its president Prabin Langthasa are demanding speedy grant of compensation to about 245 families cutting across 14 villages of Dima Hasao district.”

He pointed out that due to lackadaisical attitude of the government, the affected people of the area are reeling under deep frustration. ACKHSA requested the authority concerned to take proper step to address the issue in the larger interest of common people. A copy of the memorandum was also sent to the General Manager, NF Railway, Maligaon, Guwahati for necessary action. The memorandum was signed by among others Biswajit Deb, vice president, Subroto Das, general secretary, etc.

Source: The Sentinel 05.08.2013

Female TET teachers posting in Assam creates chaos in primary education

Female TET teachers posting creates chaos in primary education

SILCHAR, August 4: The State Government of Assam might boast of fair and transparent appointment and posting of TET teachers before their confirmation. But, the way the process for posting them in the post confirmation period through lottery has put the female teachers in particular in total disarray. In flagrant violation of the declared policy of posting within a radius of 5 to 8 km within their homes, they have been put in schools 60 to 70 km away.

This has posed serious problem for the female teachers who have to reach their places of posting with great hardship. Some of them expressed their enormous difficulties without identifying themselves with their original names.

Take the case of Sunita Roy who after appointment was posted in a school at the first instance well within reach of her home. After confirmation, she was put in a school, 65 km away. She has to first take an auto–rickshaw from her residence, then board a bus and then again take to an auto–rickshaw to be at school. Her mother had to accompany her but could not sustain the strains of the long journey. She could not take up residence in the village just on the border with Bangladesh for her own safety and security.

Deepshikha Chakraborty, another girl from the town, has to board a bus and after 40 km of journey ferry across the flooded Barak river to reach her school that too after walking for a distance of 2 km. Tired and exhausted, how could one expect to do justice to teaching. The daughter of a professor of a technical school, Geetanjali Paul, was posted at a school located in the remote and inaccessible tea belt, 35 km away. The road full of craters and potholes that she has to travel by bus has told heavily on her health to fall sick and is waiting for recovery to take a decision.

On hearing that her daughter, Aparajita Singha, has been put in a school that she has to reach by travelling through a jungle–infested road between this town and Hailakandi, her widow mother has no option than to advise her to resign. Such unfortunate victims of whimsical and arbitrary postings are many. Local media brings out reports regularly of how primary education in government schools across Barak Valley has fallen in doldrums. Teachers in their predicament with no tangible solution in sight are going for questionable adjustment with school authorities. Complaints are galore of hiring teachers to fill in the vacuum. Many teachers have refused to join. There is total chaos and anarchy. Children are the worst victims, making a mockery of the right to education (RTE). Who will address these issues and resolve?

Source: The Sentinel 05.08.2013

Union Territory Demand Committee (UTDC) for Barak Valley

Call for united struggle for union territory status for Cachar

SILCHAR, August 4: The Union Territory Demand Committee (UTDC) has raised its pitch for making Cachar a centrally administered zone at a public meeting held on the issue on August 2 here has resolved to mobilize mass support and to carry on the campaign for it from today. The call has been given for a united struggle to achieve the goal.

Paritosh Paul Choudhury, president of UTDC, said the grounds on which Telengana has been given the status of a separate state justify the upgradation of Cachar as a union territory. In fact, Cachar means the undivided territory comprising other two districts of Karimganj and Hailakandi.

Paul Choudhury pointed out that the demand for union territory to be named as “Purbanchal” has been raised just after independence in 1948. He added to say in the independent India, it was the first demand for a separate state or union territory. Although New Delhi has been continuing to ignore the demand of people of Cachar, Barak Valley, several states in the process and in the meantime have been created.

The fault with the people of this valley is that they have never adopted unconstitutional and undemocratic methods to vent out their grievances to justify the union territory to be carved out of Assam. To be precise, they have never been violent in their approach like all the other proponents for separation. It is for this reason, as stated by Paul Choudhury, the Centre has not given any importance to it.

It needs no repetition that this valley has been completely different geologically, linguistically and culturally from Assam. Most unfortunate, during the ongoing talks between the Centre and the ULFA, the voice of Cachar was not heard. No representation from here was invited to participate in the dialogue that would decide the future shape of things to come with its fall out of serious dimension.

The president of UTDC regretted that despite repeated requests to include Cachar in the talks, the Centre adopted and continues to adopt a non challant attitude towards their demand. The leaders espousing the cause of separation have waited in vain for invitation or message to participate in the dialogue. It was further pointed out that at every recent juncture of history whenever the Centre created a new state, they have hammered and reminded New Delhi of their demand raised in 1948.

It was the expectation of UTDC leaders that during the time of decision making process for Telengana, the case of Barak Valley would also find due importance. This time also, the people of this valley were let down. It was a glaring example of neglect and deprivation and overlooking the legitimate demand.

In a memorandum addressed to the Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, and submitted through the Deputy Commissioner of Cachar today, UTDC leaders expressed the hope that besides considering the points raised in favour of union territory, an old and constitutional demand, the Centre would invite them for talks. The memorandum was signed among others by Moznul Haque Mazumder, vice–president of the Committee.

Source: The Sentinel 05.08.2013

AIDYO on Silchar–Lumding BG line conversion project status

AIDYO’s demands

SILCHAR, August 2: In support of its ten point charter of demands, the members and supporters of All India Democratic Youth Organisation (AIDYO) staged a protest demonstration before the office of the Deputy Commissioner here today. A memorandum was sent to the Chief Minister, detailing the demands of the organization.

The organization demanded to assure and provide employment to all unemployed youths and to extend unemployment allowances to unemployed youths till they are employed, to ensure 100 days work to all job card holders under MGNREGA scheme maintaining transparency, to take immediate step on war footing to remove all hurdles against completion of much awaited Silchar–Lumding BG project, to reintroduce pass–fail system up to class VIII, to fill up all vacant posts in schools and colleges, to repair rural and urban road immediately, to check hike in prices of all essential commodities, to take immediate step to check all sorts of corruption and to take measure for permanent solution of supply of electricity.

Taking a dig at the Centre and the State, Bijit Kumar Singha, secretary, AIDYO, Cachar district committee, said that the “misrule” and “wrong policies” of the government have pushed the people to the brink of poverty and destitution. Slamming the government for abetting “corruption and anomalies”, he said that the tentacles of corruption are spread in every department in the country.

Drawing the attention towards the prvailing education system, the youth leader pointed out that the government is not providing adequate attention and funds for enhancement of standard of education which has been declining day by day. He vociferously opposed the move of the government towards commercialization of education which according to him would obliterate the essence of real education. He added to say that it was a quite irony that the government has abolished the pass–fail system from class I to VIII, which should be reintroduced for the larger interest of the students’ community.

Source: The Sentinel 04.08.2013

ACKHSA on Silchar–Lumding BG Line, East–West Corridor project status

Youth Front serves an ultimatum to CM on pending projects of Barak Valley

SILCHAR, August 2: If the burning issues of Barak Valley are not addressed soon, the demand for a separate Barak Valley state will be louder and tenacious. This ultimatum was served by ACKHSA Yuva Front, saying that Barak Valley has always been discriminated by the Centre and the State.

Addressing a press meet, Pramod Srivastava, President, Central Committee said, “If the Chief Minister, Tarun Gogoi, did not take any proper steps to resolve the burning issues of the valley within one month, a mass movement for separate state will be launched across Barak Valley.”

He said that they had never supported any separatist movement, but the discriminatory attitude of the government towards Barak Valley “has compelled them to raise the issue”. “The people of Barak Valley have always been deprived since after the independence. Several development projects like Silchar–Lumding BG, East–West Corridor among others have been dragging their feet year after year with new promises and assurances.” He said that people of Barak Valley are fed up with “false promises and assurances” and now they want “permanent solutions” of their grievances.

Slamming the State government led by Congress for its “lackadaisical attitude” towards the people of Barak Valley, Srivastava said that since after the independence, the people of the southernmost river valley have been deprived in all respect. “Bengali speaking citizens in Assam are being harassed in the name of D–voter. Although Bengali is an official language in the valley, but Assamese is always imposed in this part of the region.”

Rajib Shome, Vice President of ACKHSA Yuva Front, pointed out that the people of this region had to fight for everything. “It is because of the relentless movement that Assam University, Silchar Medical College and Hospital, Engineering College and Paper Mill were established here.”

“The apathy towards Barak Valley is continuing since long. There are instances when the competent and the deserving candidates belonging to Barak Valley could not get any job over the less competent candidates from Brahamaputra Valley,” Shome added.

The leaders of ACKHSA Youth Front said that they had submitted a memorandum to the CM, detailing all the burning issues of the valley. If the suitable steps are not taken within one month to address these issues, the organization will launch mass movement for the creation of a separatist state bifurcating Assam.

Source: The Sentinel 04.08.2013

Unprecedented hike in prices of fish in Silchar Town

Consumers’ body impresses DC and Fishery Officer to regulate fish prices

SILCHAR, Aug 3: Peeved at the unprecedented hike in prices of fish in the town, the members and supporters of Grahak Suraksha Samiti today laid siege of the district fishery officer and impressed upon him to take urgent steps in this regard.

The activists of the consumers’ body questioned the logic and reason behind the abnormal hike in the prices of fishes, which have a sharp increase of 50 per cent in comparision to last season. They expressed their resentments at the indifferent rates of the fishes in different markets under Silchar municipal area.

However, district fishery officer Gopal Chandra Bhowmik told the agitators that his department only deals with the quality production of fishes and has no power to regulate the steep increase in fish prices.

“Our duty is to train the fishermen about how to produce quality and healthy fishes and to encourage them to pursue scientific procedures in fish farming. We can only appeal to fish–vendors not to hike the prices. Our power has limitation,” said district fishery officer.

On being asked about the trend of production, Bhowmik said that flow of fish production in this session was not that much satisfactory and it could be one of the reasons behind the hike. He was of the opinion that due to insufficient rain in this monsoon, the ponds and other water pools went dry, resulting less production in the fishes.

About the allegation of the members of GSS that rates of fishes are being charged in whimsical and indifferent manners in different markets of the town, he said that if it is true then this should be dealt with strong hand and law breakers should be booked. He said that he would discuss this matter with the Deputy Commissioner. On being pressurized by the activists to give some firm assurances on the future course of action, the district fishery officer had talked to the Deputy Commissioner over telephone who directed him to form a committee including the representatives from Silchar Municipal Board to launch a campaign to regulate the price hike of fishes.

A delegation of GSS later met the Deputy Commissioner, GM Hazarika, and sought his intervention in this regard. They requested the DC to publish the wholesale rates of the fishes in daily newspapers through the DIPRO so that consumers could understand if they are charged more by the fish–sellers. Meanwhile, he agreed to the demand of the GSS and said that from next week the wholesale rates of fishes will be published in the local dailies.

The sheer hike in the prices of different types of fish has created a sense of anguish and disappointment among all the sections of people of this town. The fish is considered as one of the essential items of Bengalis’ lunch and dinner and this price rise has naturally left a bitter taste among the people living in this Bengali dominated town.

Biplab Kumar Goswami, general secretary of the GSS, termed the unprecedented increase in fish prices as ‘completely unjustified’. He pointed out that there is an indiscriminate rise in the prices of the different types of fishes which has created trouble for the consumers. Goswami was of the view that if the price hike was not regulated immediately by the authorities concerned, the fish prices will continue to shoot up.

Source: The Sentinel 04.08.2013

All Assam Tribal Sangha, Cachar on Silchar–Lumding broad–gauge land acquisition

Tribal Sangha demands proper rehabilitation of affected people

SILCHAR, Aug 3: All Assam Tribal Sangha, Cachar district unit, submitted a memorandum addressed to the Chief Engineer, construction, NF Railway, Maligaon, demanding urgent steps to ensure rehabilitation of the affected people whose lands and property were acquired by the NF Railway for the construction of Silchar–Lumding broad–gauge. The lands and properties of the inhabitants of Dima Hasao and Barak Valley were acquired by the NF Railway with the assurance of proper rehabilitation. But, as memorandum says, the affected people were not compensated till now, creating their life miserable. Diganta Barman, vice president, said that due to absence of attention and due care, the developments of these areas are totally halted and subsequently the affected people are reeling under deep frustration. They requested the authority to take proper step to address the issue. A copy of the memorandum was addressed to the Deputy Chief Engineer, Construction Lumding, NF Railway and the General Manager, Construction, NF Railway, Maligaon, Guwahati II. Source: The Sentinel 04.08.2013

Jobs Websites in Assam

Jobs Websites in Assam

1. Jobs in Silchar
2. Jobs in India
3. Jobs in Guwahati
4. Govt. Jobs Site

Hope the above information will help you to get Jobs in Assam and Silchar

Assam University Centre for Coaching and Training Cell (Placement Cell)

’Chartering out bright career with aplomb’

SILCHAR, Aug 1: In order to fare well in any kind of placements, the students should take care of even matters which might look trivial but are important in chartering out the course of action for bright career and futures. The reference was made to preparations of a grocery list, maintenance of home filing system, fixation of a budget for daily expenses, planning of a schedule for day to day activities, among others which help the students to be self–sustaining with greater amount of confidence and conviction.

This observation was made by Dr Arup Barman, associate professor, Department of Business Administration of Assam University, at the inaugural session of the three day long training programme for job readiness organized by Centre for Coaching and Training Cell of the varsity today. The training programme, mainly for the students belonging to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, minorities and other backward castes, laid thrust on the “self management” and “skill–development”.

Addressing the assembly of students belonging to various departments, Dr Barman said that in order to reach at the zenith of success in life, one should be disciplined, punctual, honest and self–managed, besides imbibing other essential qualities. The teacher of Business Administration said that in today’s world, a student should be accustomed to all sorts of activities from lifting and carrying 20 kg bag to surf the Internet in a faster way.

“Everything is necessary. If a student cannot run equipment like fax machine and a photocopier and also at the same time cannot maintain filing system at home, then the particular student lacks office management skills, which is one of the most important criteria of a service man,” he added.

“If a student fails to make a budget, estimate costs when making purchases, measure ingredients in a recipe and to do basic accounting and auditing, then the student is not fit for any banking related job.” He said that although these issues look very trivial, but imperative to get a job.

Dr Barman also laid thrust on reading newspapers and magazines which would benefit them in cracking any competitive examinations. Dr D Ghose and Dr N Biswas, assistant professors of the Department of Business Administration, Assam University, also dwelt on different aspects of preparation for any interview.

Dr Arup Barman, coordinator of the Centre for Coach and Training, told the reporters that the programme was organized under UGC merged scheme. The training programme, which is mainly a skill based, will be held regularly in the varsity from now with a view to provide proper suggestions and guidelines to the job aspirants.

He said that four companies from different parts of the country had reached the varsity to hold interactive sessions with the students on Friday and Saturday. They will give training on the development of various skills required for any job.

Earlier, Prof Ramananda Singh, the head of the department of Business Administration, inaugurated the programme held at Jamsedji Tata Block of the varsity.

Source: The Sentinel 02.08.2013

Cachar Zilla Parishad scam

Assam Governor kept in dark about the embezzlement of funds of Cachar Zilla Parishad

SILCHAR, Aug 1: A 6 member delegation of BJP led by Kaushik Rai, president, Dr Rajdeep Roy, state spokesman, and others met JB Patnaik, Governor of Assam, at Raj Bhavan in Guwahati, on Wednesday, and presented a memorandum to him, highlighting the open loot of development funds in Cachar Zilla Parishad and DRDA and demanded CBI inquiry into their functioning from the financial year 2006–07 to 2012–13.

This was revealed at a press–briefing by Kaushik Rai along with other office bearers of the party. He said the Governor of Assam expressed his total ignorance about the siphoning of massive development funds of Cachar Zilla Parishad although BJP had sent memorandum to him on the subject through the Deputy Commissioner of the district on April 3 and June 12 of this year. The Governor, JB Patnaik, was apprised of how the funds were siphoned off and at the centre of accusation was Banhishikha Dutta, chief executive officer of Cachar Zilla Parishad, who despite all the charges, was still at bay. This embezzlement of funds, BJP leaders hammered, was carried out with the backing of the politicians and a section of bureaucrats who were now actively interfering into the process of departmental inquiry. Mention was also made about DRDA Cachar where magnitude of corruptions and financial irregularities were an open secret. It were the same syndicate of politicians and bureaucrats who were involved. It was more surprising that even after 5 months of the departmental inquiry, no specific information could be available about the accurate figures of funds of different heads and the exact amount of money utilized. Even the fund withdrawn and shown as advance against the junior engineers could be ascertained.

The memorandum at the same time raised its accusing finger at Dibyajyoti Barua who was the president of the elected Board of Cachar Zilla Parishad from 2006–07 to 2012–13. As such, Barua could not evade his responsibility in the misappropriation of funds. Yet, he was not subjected to any interrogation by the investigation agency, civil and police. It was further said that the audit report of CAG exposed several instances of huge development funds being paid under different heads through self cheques as well as by the CEO Banhishikha Dutta to the junior engineers. But, till date none of the junior engineers was served with show cause notice by the department or interrogated by the police.

Referring to DRDA, another hotspot of corruptions, they pointed out that in maintaining the accounts in respect of allocation of funds and their utilization, it was alleged, that there was neither transparency nor accountability. No rules and regulations were followed as specifically laid down in Assam Panchayat (Financial) Rule 2002 (8) and Sub Rule (4D) as well as Rule 8 (1–4C). The inquiry officers disclosed that several bank accounts and files were missing from the DRDA Cachar. Yet police was not interrogating Madhumita Choudhury, heading the DRDA.

The memorandum therefore impressed upon the Governor of Assam that he should intervene in these open loot of development funds in both Cachar Zilla Parishad and DRDA and cause CBI inquiry in order to unfathom the fathomless corruptions in both the departments and to bring the culprits to book and to give exemplary punishment to them. After giving a patient hearing and having been briefed about the corruptions in Zilla Parishad and DRDA of Cachar, the Governor assured the BJP leaders that he would visit the district in October and personally enquire into the investigations and their progress so far.

Source: The Sentinel 02.08.2013

Women's College, Silchar, Assam

Women’s College heralds its Golden Jubilee Celebration

SILCHAR, Aug 1: The premiere centre of education for women in Barak Valley ‘Women’s College’ here heralded its Golden Jubilee Celebration with the inauguration of a well–equipped computer laboratory and the release of a well documented and researched edited volume on “Human Development: Perspectives and Dimensions” published by the Research and Publication Cell of the College.

Dr Manoj Kumar Paul, Principal, addressing the distinguished assembly of invited guests, teachers and students in Nivedita Sabha Griha of the College, said “it is a great moment that the college has completed its glorious journey of 50 years in the field of women’s education which was a critical issue in its formative stage.” Conservative society of the time did not favour education for women in general. He expressed his thankfulness to all those pioneers, academicians and educationists as well as citizens of the time for their initiative behind the foundation and growth of this only college of the time.

Today, he was happy to share the joy to look at the present status of the College and its imposing building. The computer laboratory was a part of the updated knowledge of the institution and the related courses, as he said, “have become imperative in this age of globalization.” Knowledge and education are incomplete without the use of internet and for that computer education has become essential, he pointed out.

Dr Manoj Kumar Paul spoke of the future plan and programme for the upgradation of the College with the introduction of Science stream in future and also for starting Bachelor of Business Administration and Bachelor of Computer Application. He was hopeful with the resources available and the commitment of his teaching staff, it would become a reality notwithstanding certain hiccups here and there.

Dr Arundhati Mazumdar, convener of Research and Publication Cell, giving a brief account of the book “Human Development: Perspectives and Dimensions”, said the edited volume “is the 5th edition in the series that began in 2007.” She was glad to say that the volumes brought out by the Cell “have been widely appreciated in the academic circles.” The present volume on Human Development deals with the concept of human development, its freedom and capability, sensibility and inclusiveness, she pointed out.

She said a national seminar on Human Development was also held in the College in which scholars and academicians of Barak Valley and north east and even beyond its boundary from other States participated. The book was released by Prof Somnath Das Gupta, Vice–Chancellor of Assam University.

Prof Somnath Das Gupta described the day as very “special” in the long but eventful journey of this College. He at the same time saluted those who despite all the odds and oddities of the time worked hard for the education of women. Today, women education “has made a great leap forward and the talk today has gone much ahead of empowerment to them.” The institution of dream nurtured by the generations of teachers and students has to be well looked after by the present generation of alumni and the next 50 years will bring out its fruitful results, he said. He applauded the ambitious plan of the Principal and assured him all possible help of the University.

Kanad Purkayastha, who represented Kabindra Purkayastha, MP, in his absence, inaugurated the computer laboratory raised and well equipped with a set of more than 40 computer sets and expressed his satisfaction at the way the fund of Rs 5 lakh extended from the MP areas development fund was utilized in the best interest of women education. Purkayastha had high word of praise for the conducive academic atmosphere of the College and expressed the hope that it would continue to prevail for better education and better performance.

Dr Saurindra Kumar Bhattacharjee, President, Governing Body of the College, who presided over the function, said in the present age of higher education, a new approach for research and exploratory works beyond the confines of teaching–learning “has become its characteristic feature and with that objective in mind, educationists and teachers have to endeavour for the best ends.” He did admit fund crunch that hampered various development projects in a college. Dr Deboshree Dutta, offered vote of thanks.

Source: The Sentinel 02.08.2013