Between 2016 and 2021, BJP gave Assam its first Tribal CM and also a maiden Brahmin chief minister :::: But nine-and-half years in power -- it has to try a mix of OLD and NEW Tricks to return to power

Like Sharad Pawar "cultivated" a large army of spin masters and veteran writers in Mumbai and Maharashtra journalism to continuously dub him as a potential Prime Minister material and Maratha strongman; mercurial Himanta Biswa Sarma has his "loyalists" who would already describe him as a visionary leader and what not.

A military officer who was posted in north east around 2027-28; once said - "I got an impression that Himanta is a solid Prime Minister material after Narendra Modi". 

Entire plot looks laughable, but Himanta's fan club has been huge nevertheless. 

Himanta and one-time mentor Congress veteran Late Tarun Gogoi

One refrain pushed in 2021 - to deprive chief ministership to Sarbananda Sonowal was Himanta was already a  "super CM" from the days of Tarun Gogoi and largely threw around the same weight even under Sonowal between 2015 and 2021 as the Finance Minister.

Of course Himanta is a go-getter. His efficacy with Durbar culture of Congress came handy and he cultivated 'high command ... the Kendriya Netritya' culture even in the BJP.

But at the end of the day, who matters is the voter and his or her 'perception' about certain critical issues including corruption. 

PM Narendra Modi's oft-repeated slogan 'Na Khauanga Na Khane Doonga' hardly applies beyond Brahmaputra in states such as Nagaland and Assam.  

In Nagaland, the faceless and helpless voters have discovered their own methods. They also take money during elections. 

In Assam - fortunately- the greatly successful "NDPP model" of elections do not work.

Hence, whether you are rich of whether your wife is richer does not make any impact.

"Vote moi dim no hoe (It's only me who will decide who I wll vote for)" -- is the firm commitment of voters in Assam. Thus, the challenge.

The Bodo local polls in BTC is a proof that anti-BJP and anti-double engine narratives have overwhelming acceptance. 

In 2015 -- this was reported in a section of media.

"In poll-bound Assam, the woes of the state’s ruling but now-depleted Congress have increased manifold after the names of party biggies, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi and former minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, got entangled in the Louis Berger International Inc bribery scam.

Recently, the US Justice Department revealed that New Jersey-based consulting firm Louis Berger International Inc had paid Rs 6.1 crore as bribe to win contracts for two water projects in Guwahati and Goa.

The matter came to light on July 17 when the Louis Berger International Inc admitted to violation of the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and agreed to pay $17.1 million criminal fine to resolve charges that it bribed officials in India, Indonesia, Vietnam and Kuwait to secure government contracts".

(New Indian Express, Aug 23, 2015) 

People of Assam will draw their own calculation.

The Dibrugarh-Tinsukia-Digboi belt is largely rich in oil, tea and coal and yet there are no jobs in this region.

The entire argument of Double Engine fails.

Moreover, in 2024 - Himanta Sarma got another shock when Gaurav Gogoi (of Congress) could win the tough Jorhat parliamentary seat. This changed the game on ground. The Congress appeared on revival journey and Gaurav's Ahom-pride politics as a son of the soil found acceptability among the local population.

The message spread into other parts of Assam.

Moreover, Himanta has antagnised Muslims so much that today they are determined to defeat BJP and thus will even desert AIUDF and vote for the Congress.

As it is Sarma is a Brahmin from lower or western Assam. In Upper Assam, the BJP did well in two consecutive elections in 2016 and 2021 because of Sonowal factor. 

With that 'edge factor' missing; the Lotus party is at a receiving end for the 2026 battle and defensive in around 25 seats from the word go.

A pro-Himanta school of thought worked against Sonowal in 2021 and had pushed the line that Assam is/was in desperate need of a committed government headed by a decisive Chief Minister.

While Himanta is a decisive man; how much well his government could resolve the burning issues remain a big question. 

Blogger in Upper Assam

Governance issue has been his demerit and hence by January 2025 - Himanta pushed the second capital doctrine for Dibrugarh in upper Assam. 

He worked out a major dance show in the winter and tried to appeal to Hindu voters by pushing some issues which people did not approve of. 

The anti-healing Bill was seen as a typical anti-Christian move and it got carried over to neighbouring Nagaland as well.

Now NDPP stalwart Rio - who got political backing from Himanta often undeservedly - says anti-healing Bill is one reason for him to 'merge' his party with the NPF. This is also a broad anti-BJP narrative.

One may point out that Himanta as Assam CM and NEDA convener "over did" his role and in 2022 conspired with the NDPP virtually to deprive BJP its natural and organic growth in Nagaland.

Rio was given on platter 40:20 seat adjustment formula in 2023 polls when the Lotus party showed potential doing much better. In fact, in 2018 - Rio's own strike rate was much poorer than BJP's. 

People near Majuli island 

 

PM Modi also realised that Himanta was no use for handling crisis in Manipur. 

Partly, N Biren Singh had told him not to interfere in the affairs of Manipur in clashes between Meiteis and Kukis. And partly, it was clear the community leaders in Manipur were not be influenced by "an Assamese" on what they should do or should not do vis-a-vis the Kuki-Meitei ethnic clash.  

But it is equally true. 

Sonowal has his limitation. He is shy and indecisive. 

There were charges that as the chief minister he got "surrounded" himself with people some of whom faced serious allegations of corruption.

There was alleged involvement of illegal trade syndicates from the media.

No Chief Minister in Assam in the past avoided journalists to such an extent as Sonowal did between 2016 and 2021. 

Moreover, as a former student leader (of AASU), Sonowal knew how the  Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) would be taken in Assam.

He could not 'convince' the central leadership to exempt Assam or work out a balance. The anti-CAA protest was hugely successful in 2019 and 2020 in Assam.

**** 

But it goes to Sonowal's credit that he brought a new energy in the BJP  for his salutary role in opposing the pro-illegal migrants the Illegal Migrants (Determination by Tribunals) Act, 1983. 

As a chief minister, Sonowal was known for his ‘zero-tolerance’ against corruption. 

Himanta Sarma in 2021 had hailed Sonowal for Zero Tolerance image against corruption as the stint was “unblemished without a single charge of corruption or any other allegation”. 

Sonowal was the president of the influential All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) in the 1990s, before joining the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP).

He quit AGP in 2011 and joined BJP in 2011. He became BJP National Executive member and later became the state president of the party. 

He was elected to the 16th Lok Sabha from the Lakhimpur constituency.

In May 2016, he won the Majuli assembly seat and was sworn in as the 14th chief minister. In 2021, he was re-elected from this seat. 

Sonowal's being 'tribal' somewhat countered the politics of Ahom-pride in 2021 and also 2016 polls. But now Himanta is the face of the Lotus party and it may be genuinely difficult to find Himanta admirers in upper Assam.

"We may vote for BJP and it will be done in the name of Narendra Modi and the hope that the high command will replace Himanta with Sonowal bhai. We want him back as Assam Chief Minister.... 

Let Amit Shah make Himanta home minister in Delhi or Governor of Gujarat," says 40-year-old Shikha Deka in Dinjoy gaon or Dinjan - a tea growing area. 

ends 

RSS at 100 :::: "All Hindus are children of Bharat Mata" ::::: Sangh has raised issues .... drawing support from those who seemed its opponents"

" At Prayag, the conference had declared: “ ” (na hindu patito bhavet) — No Hindu can be outcast. At another, the proclamation was: " " (hindavah sodarah sarve) — 

All Hindus are children of Bharat Mata. Whether in the campaign for a cow slaughter ban or the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, Sangh swayamsevaks have always received the blessings of saints," --   

notes Dattatreya Hosabale, Sarkaryavah (General Secretary) of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

In an opinion piece on the occasion of completion of 100 years of the RSS; he writes: 

" The Sangh has often raised issues of national interest, drawing support even from those who seemed its opponents. It has sought broad cooperation on matters of Hindu unity. In protecting national integrity, social harmony, democracy, and dharma-culture, countless swayamsevaks endured hardships, with many making the ultimate sacrifice".

In 1981, when Hindus were deceitfully converted in Meenakshipuram, Tamil Nadu, a Hindu awakening movement gathered nearly five lakh people in a massive conference attended by Dr. Karan Singh of the Congress, he said. 

"Earlier, in 1964, the formation of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad saw the prominent presence of Swami Chinmayanand, Master Tara Singh, Jain Muni Sushil Kumar, Buddhist Bhikshu Kushok Bakula, and Namdhari Sikh Sadguru Jagjit Singh. To reiterate that untouchability has no basis in Hindu scriptures, Shri Guruji Golwalkar initiated the Vishwa Hindu Sammelan in Udupi, blessed by revered Dharmacharyas, Sants and Mahants.

At Prayag, the conference had declared: “ ” (na hindu patito bhavet) — No Hindu can be outcast. At another, the proclamation was: " " (hindavah sodarah sarve) — All Hindus are children of Bharat Mata. Whether in the campaign for a cow slaughter ban or the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, Sangh swayamsevaks have always received the blessings of saints." 

"In the centenary year, Sangh swayamsevaks will redouble efforts to reach every household, seeking cooperation and participation across all sections of society," Hosabale wrote.

"The goal is to connect from cities to the remotest villages, involving all segments of people. With the coordinated efforts of dedicated individuals (Sajjan Shakti), the onward journey of nation-building will move smoothly and purposefully.

After Independence, when the Sangh was banned for political reasons, people from across society — ordinary citizens as well as eminent personalities — stood firmly with it. 

The same was seen during the Emergency. Despite obstacles, Sangh’s work never stopped. In those testing times, mothers and sisters shouldered the responsibility of supporting swayamsevaks with quiet strength. Such experiences remain lasting sources of inspiration."  

Hosabale 

He further wrote:

"From the very beginning, families have offered blessings and shelter to Sangh karyakartas. The homes of swayamsevaks themselves became centers of Sangh activity. 

Mothers and sisters, with their steadfast support, gave Sangh’s work its fullness. Inspired by Sangh, leaders like Dattopant Thengadi, Yashwantrao Kelkar, Balasaheb Deshpande, Eknath Ranade, Deendayal Upadhyaya, and Dadasaheb Apte established organizations across diverse fields. These institutions, now widely expanded, continue to drive positive social change. 

Among women, through the Rashtra Sevika Samiti, figures from Mausiji Kelkar to Pramilatai Medhe played vital and enduring roles in this journey of national service."

The Sangh’s progress has always depended on society’s support. 

Because its work has resonated with the sentiments of the common people, its acceptance has steadily grown. 

Once, Swami Vivekananda was asked during his travels abroad: “In your country, most people are illiterate; they do not know English. How will your lofty ideas ever reach them?” He replied: “Just as ants do not need to learn English to find sugar, my people of Bharat, with their innate spiritual wisdom, can immediately recognize any virtuous (Sattvik) work, 

..... wherever it happens, and quietly gather there. They will understand my message.” 

His words proved true. Similarly, though Sangh’s work grew slowly, it continuously found acceptance and support from ordinary people, he noted.

ends 

Road to Peace in Manipur ..... It's much more than the "VVIP visit" :::: It is next to "impossible" to presume any national leader to offer a Quick Fix Solution in a state like this

It is easier to argue or allege that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not share the roadmap to peace. Actually, it is next to impossible to presume that any national leader can offer a quick-fix Solution and Peace in a state like Manipur.

In 2001, Meiteis had fought with the Nagas and in the 1990s, Kukis had fought against the Nagas. Since 2023 May, the circle was almost completed when Kukis and Meiteis clashed.

‘Us and They’ syndrome is common issue in the northeast in all the states. 

Hence to hope a flying visit from Delhi will discover ways to ensure peace is only a figment of imagination.  

Media is supposed to focus on what is fresh and new. But a sincere analysis on north east of India and especially a state like Manipur is not possible without reflecting on is recent past. In other words, what is important in a state which was in the headlines in 2023 is the human quotient. 

The people’s identity and land are important issues.

At the height of the violence in Manipur, Home Minister Amit Shah had blamed the influx of “Kuki tribal people from Myanmar” as one of the reasons for problems in the state. On Aug 9th, 2023, he said in Lok Sabha that the incoming of Kukis had caused “insecurity among the Meiteis”. 

Kukis and Zo ethnic people are Christians while majority of Meitei population in and outside Manipur state are Hindus.

Many have argued in the past that the Hindu-Christian elements also played their part for the ethnic clashes between Kukis and Meiteis. Even churches were burned down.

In the northeast, over 87 percent of people in Nagaland and Mizoram are Christians. Manipur has an estimated over 41 percent and Arunachal Pradesh has around 30 percent Christians. In May 2023 when the violence started in Manipur, Chief Minister in office was a Meitei Hindu - N Biren Singh.

He is said to have proposed fencing the border with Myanmar. The move was endorsed by Home Minister Shah and predictably it provoked protest and angry remarks from Nagaland and Mizoram. 

The BJP’s ally Mizo National Front (MNF) paid a price in state assembly polls in November 2023 largely owing to ethnic clashes in Manipur which left Kukis in agony. The Kukis and Mizos share ethnic bonds and hence the people’s anguish in election was predictable.

Notably, PM Narendra Modi did not campaign in the 2023 Mizoram state polls and also in both Manipur and Mizoram during 2024 Lok Sabha polls. The ethnic bond between Kukis or Zo people with Mizos is so strong that the BJP election strategists had advised Modi to avoid campaigning in the 2023 assembly polls in Mizoram.  

In fact, since May 2023 when violence had engulfed Manipur – the Prime Minister had avoided visit to the state. He went only on Sept 13, 2025 and met relief camp inmates, inaugurated projects and addressed two rallies (one in Kuki-stronghold Churachandpur and the other in Imphal (a Meitei bastion and the capital of Manipur).  

Congress veteran and former Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh has stated that there was nothing significant about the Prime Minister brief visit. 

Modiji “failed” to address the people's aspirations for restoring peace in the state, he said. Ibobi told a press conference that the Prime Minister didn't say anything concrete and meaningful to resolve the protracted crisis.

What they can ‘best’ do is only announce Development and try to use this as a Peace offensive tool. This development phenomenon has suffered so much in the state - which prior to May 2023 clashes - was making spectacular progress on multiple fronts.

Emerging as an 'island of peace' for some time, Manipur under the BJP’s double-engine government had experienced a lot of positive developments including pumping in of investments. 

In August 2022, Manipur hosted the prestigious and Asia's oldest Durand Cup soccer tournament. Nandini Gupta from Rajasthan was crowned the Femina Miss India 2023 title at the starry grand finale held in Manipur.

But all that has been lost and derailed.

Things remain – where they were: Ethnic Fissures also remain

It’s a fact that - hopes pinned on PM Modi for any magic formula to Peace was shattered. Former Chief Minister Ibobi said the Prime Minister didn't bring any roadmap to resettle the Meitei and Kuki internally displaced people (IDPs) who have been languishing in relief camps for the past 28 months. A large number of Kukis have taken shelter in Mizoram.

Worse, one old demand and a highly controversial one was reignited once again.

The Kuki MLAs including from the BJP demanded the division of Manipur and creation of a new Union Territory.

An educationist in Imphal said – “Meiteis will not agree for division of their state. Prime Minister did not bring any drastic formula.... actually he does not have one.

So, I agree the most crucial take away from the visit was PM’s direct appeal to all the organisations to take the path of Peace”.

He further said – “The challenges are – as always – very complex. The fissures between Kukis and Meiteis remain where they were”.

In fact within days of Prime Minister’s visit; suspected Meitei militants attacked one Assam Rifles convoy on Sept 19 while they were returning from flood relief works.

Two Assam Rifles soldiers Rifleman Ranjeet Singh Kashyap (from Bastar, Chhattisgarh) and Nb Sub (GD) Shyam Gurung from Meghalaya made supreme sacrifices.

Four others were injured. The essential tool for central forces to function in the north east,  the 'Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act or AFSPA' does not apply to Nambol, where the ambush happened on Sept 19.  The area falls under Bishnupur district and is not far from state capital Imphal.

According to analysts, this was not just an attack on a unit—it was trying to give a message that some people in valley were not happy with the PM’s visit and a supposed importance he gave to Kukis.

This ambush on the Assam Rifles convey was an affront to the spirit of service, compassion and unity that Assam Rifles embodies.

But thankfully, the society by and large and the people of rest of Manipur rose to the occasion.

Next day, there was a state wide protest against the attack on Assam Rifles. Worse, the ambush had left even a Meitei soldier injured.

A retired agriculture engineer later said – “For the people of Imphal, people of Manipur and the rest of India -- it is time to stand together — not just in grief, but in resolve. Let the sacrifices of Assam Rifles soldiers ignite a movement for justice, unity, and enduring peace”.  

Again, these are simply early days.

 

Issues of Nagas:

The Nagas in Manipur have their own tales of grievances. The much talked about Naga peace talk are in a virtual stage of limbo and no one knows what is stored for ending the Naga insurgency. A recent report from security apparatus suggested that a potent Naga militant group may rekindle the old days of violence of the 1990s.

When it comes to the NSCN-IM demand for the 'integrity' of Naga contiguous areas, there is mutual distrust between Nagas and Meities. There were some inherent conflicts also. While the NSCN-IM always stood for Greater Nagaland; former CM Rishang Keishing, a Tangkhul Naga, was all along part of resolution of the Manipur assembly that 'not an inch' of Manipur state’s geography could be compromised.

A related row may come up yet again as there are indications that NSCN-IM leader Thuingaleng Muivah may visit his native village Somdal in Manipur in October. In 2010, such a visit proposal by Muivah was violently opposed by the Meiteis with the argument that once he visits the place; the NSCN-IM could link it to their pet ‘Greater Nagalim’ demand. It is also high time, people concerned appreciate what the officers and soldiers of Assam Rifles and Army have done over the months after the ethnic clashes between Kukis and Meiteis had started.

International Border management

 

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs in January 2024 decided to scrap the Free Movement Regime (FMR) between India and Myanmar to ensure the "internal security of the country and to maintain the demographic  structure" of India’s North Eastern States bordering Myanmar. This was opposed by Nagas and Mizos vehemently.

One analogy is while the Modi government's mantra has been “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (one world, one family); maybe on ground, New Delhi is perhaps “dividing families” at the borders using security as the argument to

justify the removal of the Free Movement Regime (FMR). 

“The security argument that the government has used to justify the removal of FMR stands in contradiction to the diplomatic and strategic outreach with the neighbouring countries and, more importantly, it violates the indigenous rights of the border communities. We strongly oppose the security-centric approach to border management,” a letter from indigenous leaders said in Feb 2024.

Wrap up:

At present Manipur is under President’s Rule and to know what is at the end of the tunnel – all stakeholders should have three qualities – Patience, Hard work – performance and the Right sense of judgement.

Observers caution that the Prime Minister’s statements and eloquently stated viewpoints may end up as only rhetoric if right balance is not struck.

The Kukis and Meiteis are unable to trust each other. Kukis say they were discriminated by Meitei-led administration while the Meiteis feel they have serious grievances which are being ignored by the centre.

On the day Prime Minister visited; some students staged a noisy potest. "The Prime Minister did not visit Manipur when people here needed him the most. While he ignored the State for more than 2 years, the people here suffered,” said a student leader during the protest demonstration.

Finally we may say -- Manipur needs a good leadership who understands the plight of the people. But along with being a half-saint; the administration has to be ruthless with the wrongdoers.

The rule of law must return.

ends 

Will Modi replace Himanta with Sonowal ? Story of an Ultimate Game-changer !! :: In Assam Bodo People's Front (BPF) chief Hagrama Mohilary is now a new political protagonist !!

 Who disrupted BJP's 10-year winning streak in Assam?  

Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has attributed the BJP's poor performance in the recently held Bodp local polls to the "unfortunate death of Zubeen Garg", 

Even before the results were out, Himanta had stated: "The last 72 hours are crucial to every election. We couldn't campaign because of the sad demise of Zubeen Garg. 

We returned to Guwahati to facilitate the return of his body and arrange for the cremation."

After the results, Sarma met BPF chief Mohilary to congratulate him and even tried to suggest that in broad sense BPF is a BJP ally.

The fact of the matter is Hagrama Mohilary's decisive win in the 2025 BTC elections has thrown open a big challenge the BJP's decade-long dominance in Assam. 

By reclaiming 28 of 40 seats, Mohilary has reasserted the BPF as the key political force in the Bodoland Territorial Region. This belt has 15 MLAs and in 2021 polls - 12 for the NDA came from the region.

With Assembly elections just months away, B{F's comeback signals emergence of a strong anti-Himanta and anti-BJP narratives. 

Now we could be headng towards a potentially unpredictable battle for power in Assam in 2026.

Assam, where the BJP has of late enjoyed an uninterrupted electoral run since 2016, has faced the first defeat as Hagrama Mohilary's Bodo People's Front (BPF) swept the 2025 Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) elections. 

In 2016 assembly elections in Assam; the BJP not only could capture power in the state for the first time; the Team Modi could pass a powerful message that in the overall electoral game - there was more to come.

By Nov 2015, the BJP had lost in Bihar and the detractors claimed Narendra Modi's countdown had begun. That way Assam had changed the game in an ultimate manner. 

Just to recall, post-Assam win in 2016, the Modi had captured power in Uttar Pradesh, Manipur and Goa in 2017 and the ultimate 'new road map' of Indian polity was written.  

Such is the importance of Assam polls of 2016. In 2021, BJP returned to power fighting a fierce battle post-Covid19 and could stonewall the Congress party's revival journey. Worse for Congress; the grand old party in 2021 could not return to power in Kerala as well.

Modi's happiness was expected. 

Hence, BJP's defeat in BTC polls has possibly redefined some of the old tricks. Maybe the saffron party leadership and especially PM Narendra Modi is realising that sending back Sarbananda Sonowal as the 'tribal' chief minister will save the day for the Lotus outfit. 

Even otherwise there is enough negativity against Himanta in Upper Assam where there are about 30 seats comprising areas of tea growers and tribals.  

The Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) is an autonomous body established in 2003 under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. It was one of the long term decisions of the Vajpayee Govt.

It governs the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) in western Assam, comprising five districts of Kokrajhar, Chirang, Baksa, Udalguri, and Tamulpur. 

It's an 8,970 square-kilometre area and home to over 3 million people, predominantly from the Bodo tribe. The Council holds legislative, executive, and financial powers over 40 domains like education, land, and culture.

The Hagrama Mohilary-led Bodoland People's Front (BPF) won 28 of the 40 seats, up from 17 in 2020. The BJP, contesting independently for the first time, slumped to five seats from nine, while its former ally United People's Party Liberal (UPPL) managed seven, down from 12.  

The Tea-garden workers had overwhelmingly voted for the BJP in 2021 polls. 

Among the five guarantees the Congress had promised in 2021 was Rs 365 daily wage if voted to power; yet the tea-garden community overwhelmingly sided with the saffron alliance. In 2026 too; the tea garden workers are expected to back the BJP. 

However, some locals say the problem lies in BJP's electoral management. 

"Projecting Himanta Biswa Sarma may not help in Upper Assam at all. This Ahom-community dominated region has always preferred a Ahom ruler in Dispur. We are are very proud of our tradition and culture", said trader Akhil Kumar in Tinsukia.

Gaurav Gogoi's win in 2024 from Jorhat changed the entire political dynamics 

 

Prior ro 2024 Lok Sabha polls, Himanta Biswa Sarma played a game.  The Kaliabor constituency, which Gaurav Gogoi represented earlier, was rechristened as Kaziranga in delimitation. The BJP calculation was Gaurav will be compelled to move to Muslim-dominated Nagaon.

This would have been an easier battle for Gaurav Gogoi, son of Late CM Tarun Gogoi.

But Gaurav Gogoi took a calculated risk and surprised his political foe Himanta.

He could wrest the prestigious Jorhat seat from the ruling BJP by defeating Topon Kumar Gogoi with a margin of 1,44,393 votes. Both Himanta and Topon Kumar Gogoi were 'confident' of winning the election for the second consecutive term. 

The political dynamics were altered and hence the Congress is a party that is seen as someone which can get back its prominence in Assam. 

ends 

A big time Saffron outreach in Kerala ..... :::: A former DGP Thomas to join RSS as active Pracharak ::::: In Assam, BJP faces tough questions on Governance

For some, its a routine episode. But it may have a long term and also short term impacts on the fast approaching assembly elections in Kerala next year. 

A former Director General of Kerala Police, Jacob Thomas, will join the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) as a full-time 'pracharak'. The decision comes at a time when the RSS and BJP are aggressively luring the Christian community.

Jacob Thomas will participate in the RSS padhasanchalan at Pallikkara in Ernakulam district in the official RSS uniform — known as Ganavesham — on October 1.

“I have been associated with the RSS for decades and have been in touch with the top brass of the organisation, including sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat. It was the discipline and selfless service of the cadre to the nation that attracted me to the RSS.

"They are truly patriotic and I haven’t met any RSS cadre who thinks of personal gains," he said adding: 

I think there is no other organisation in the world that displays such dedication and devotion to the nation". 

Jacob said he was associated with RSS even during his years as an IPS officer. 

Jacob said he has conveyed his willingness to work as a full-time pracharak of the RSS and it is for the organisation to decide how to utilise his services.  

In Assam, BJP faces tough questions on Governance  ::: Urban Flooding hit Credibility of Double Engine Govts

Polls are due early next year in Assam too. The BJP came to power in 2016 ending 15-years of continuous Congress party in power.

It is true, in terms of infrastructures, Guwahati is a changed city from it was a decade back.

However, Guwahati faces severe urban flooding during the monsoon season due to a combination of multiple factors.

They are excessive rainfall, Brahmaputra River swelling, poor drainage infrastructure, blocked drains, encroachment on natural waterways, and unchecked urban expansion. 

These factors have led to widespread waterlogging, affecting residents with issues like submerged homes, disrupted electricity and water supply, and blocked roads.

Natural factors like heavy monsoons 

Human-made neglect .... including ill-conceived infrastructure 

Unregulated construction, are significant causes.

Excessive Rainfall: The southwest monsoon brings continuous and heavy rainfall, often exceeding the capacity of the soil and drainage systems to absorb it. 

River System Strain: The Brahmaputra River and its tributaries swell, bringing a heavy sediment load and contributing to floods. 

Encroachment on Waterways: Natural waterways and channels are often encroached upon or silted, reducing their capacity to carry water. 

Urban Sprawl: Unregulated construction and rapid urban growth in Guwahati lead to ill-conceived infrastructure expansion that cannot cope with heavy rainfall. 

There is a geographical factor too.

Guwahati is located in an area prone to flash floods.

ends 

How 'American pressure' paralysed Manmohan Singh regime ??? :::: US stopped us: Chidambaram's big 26/11 admission !!

"Condoleeza Rice, who was then US Secretary of State, flew in two or three days after I took over, to meet me and the Prime Minister. And to say, 'please don't react'. 

I said this is a decision that the government will take. Without disclosing any official secret, it did cross my mind that we should do some act of retribution," he acknowledged.' -- says senior Congress leader P Chidambaram

 US stopped us: Chidambaram's big 26/11 admission, BJP says too little, too late

At the time of the attacks in 2008, the Congress veteran leader was the Union Home Minister. 

He revealed that the then US Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice had visited India to meet him and the Prime Minister, asking them not to react to the situation.  

During an interview with a news channel, Chidambaram, who took over as the Union Home Minister just days after the coordinated terror attacks that claimed the lives of 175 people, said, 

"The whole world descended upon Delhi to tell us 'don't start a war"

Chidambaram went on to say that he discussed a possible retaliation with the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and "other people who mattered."

"The Prime Minister had discussed this even when the attack was going on... And the conclusion was, largely influenced by the the Ministry of External Affairs, and the IFS, that we should not physically react to the situation," he recalled.

On November 26, 2008, a group of 10 Pakistani terrorists affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba went on a rampage, carrying out attacks on the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj train station; the Oberoi Trident, the Taj Mahal Palace and Tower hotel, the Leopold Cafe, the Cama Hospital, and the Nariman House. Ajmal Kasab, one of the terrorists who was caught by the Mumbai Police, was executed in 2012.

BJP leader an Union Minister Pralhad Joshi said that the former Home Minister had admitted that the country already knew that the Mumbai attacks were "mishandled due to pressure from foreign powers."  

BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala alleged that Chidambaram was initially reluctant to take charge as Home Minister in the wake of the Mumbai attacks, wanted military action against Pakistan, but "others prevailed".

He questioned whether senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi or then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had blocked the move, claiming that the UPA government appeared to act under the influence of Condoleezza Rice.

“Why was UPA taking orders from her? Why did Sonia Gandhi prevail over the Home Minister?” Poonawalla queried..

Sonia may get a mid-night call ... Modi's "Italian connections" gets into a book :::: "Now that time has passed, I am grateful to those idiots", writes Italian PM Meloni in her memoir

Highlighting the friendship between the two leaders, PM Narendra Modi wrote in Foreword for Giorgia Meloni’s book that her life underscored “timeless truths” of resilience and rootedness. 

He praised the Italian leader's “belief in defending one’s cultural heritage while engaging with the world on equal terms mirrors our own values.”

Namo has penned the foreword for the Indian edition of Italian PM Giorgia Meloni’s memoir, 'I Am Giorgia — My Roots, My Principles'. 

Modi hailed Meloni as a “patriot and outstanding contemporary leader,” likening her autobiography to her own “Mann Ki Baat". 

Set to be launched in India by Rupa Publications, the book highlights Meloni’s personal and political journey. 

PM Modi said it was a “great honour” to contribute, expressing admiration and friendship for Meloni and adding that her “inspiring and historic” story will resonate deeply with Indian readers. 

Extracts  from the book

-- Now that time has passed, I am grateful to those idiots -- they were the first to teach me that enemies can be useful. They spur you onto to overcome challenges, to push past your limits ....

The Italian PM also says

** I learnt the hard way that healthy eating habits are crucial for young people. not just for health but also for social lives.

**  I grew up convinced that I did not deserve anything. 

** Life is less what happens to us because of someone else's actions, and more about how we choose to react.

** If this is who I am today, it is thanks to my father - for better or for worse. When he died a few years ago, I felt nothing. Writing these words is still painful. 

*** I was a textbook Capricorn - not shy or distrustful, but fiercely and stubbornly protective of my personal space -- she notes.

 Meloni’s memoir is not like the literary works of other politicians, past or current. 

What emerges is a self-portrait of a serious thinker who knows where her beliefs come from. Her personal background is not what one may expect. This memoir begins with a story of a struggling young mother walking towards an abortion clinic. Her marriage was failing and her husband was preparing to leave: a second child simply did not appear to be an option. 

Had her mother Anna not decided to turn back, Giorgia Meloni would never have come into the world. 

A difficult childhood followed, as material circumstances changed significantly when her father left Italy and his daughters behind.

“The awareness of a father who is no longer there, who vanishes into thin air, is something that’s hard to explain. It may leave a deeper wound than a father’s death. At least then you can imagine him looking down at you from heaven. But when he chooses to leave, you’re left grappling with the ghost of a person ..."

ends 

Why and How 'comparison' between Ladakh and Manipur are gaining grounds ? :::: For Manipur ; pushing "6th schedule demand" will be a blessing

There is a refrain among policy makers and not without good reason that the gory episode in Ladakh was orchestrated by a section of local elements and supported by external hands. 

But one thing is certain; the Ladakhis are demanding that the entire Ladakh region to be declared a "tribal area". And they want that the paper work is completed so that its inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the constitution for local autonomy is ensured.

Blogger - Ground Zero 

The protesters and various organisations believe this measure will also ensure cultural safeguards. 

The 6th schedule offers a win-win situations for tribal areas and the people. The best example to strengthen this argument is that when Meghalaya was carved out of Assam and made a separate state -- the Garo Hills, Khasi Hills and Jaintia Hills retained their Sixth Schedule status. 

Some policy makers and Sarkari analysts now believe that  -- all the hill districts of Manipur, falling under the “hill areas” as determined by a presidential notification of June 20, 1972,  have about 95% tribal population.

So, they are "qualified" to be declared as tribal areas and under the Sixth Schedule. Of course this formula may save the situation in Manipur and bring both Kukis and Meiteis back in the primary business of  development of the state. 

Late George Fernandes used to say that the 6th Schedule of the Constitution had the power of a 'quick fix'. It would give tribal land and the people due protection and also ensure that no state is "divided" due to allegations of discrimination.  

 

The following list and period (timing) mentioned can only make our argument more convincing -- 

1 Bodoland Territorial Council Assam Kokrajhar 2003

2 North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council Assam Haflong 1951

3 Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council Assam Diphu 1952

4 Garo Hills Autonomous District Council Meghalaya Tura 1973

5 Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council Meghalaya Jowai 1973

6 Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Meghalaya Shillong 1973

7 Chakma Autonomous District Council Mizoram Kamalanagar 1972

8 Lai Autonomous District Council Mizoram Lawngtlai 1972

9 Mara Autonomous District Council Mizoram Siaha 1972 

10. Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council, Tripura Khumulwng 1982

Those in the know of things say in the context of Manipur; pushing the 6th schedule demand will be a blessing in the sense that it would not lead to the division of Manipur.

Indeed, New Delhi is aware that demand for a new state for Kuki and Zo people is only a recent phenomenon.

Prior to May 2023 - when ethnic clashes between Kukis and Meiteis started - this Sixth schedule was the demand of the Kuki-Zo people as well.

Needless to add, 'territorial integrity' of the state of Manipur is highly emotive issue of the Meiteis and thus they were even opposed to the demand. 

Notably, the erstwhile Congress Govt in Manipur under Ibobi Singh had earlier agreed to the sixth schedule plea with ‘local adjustments’.  

There are a few other elements in the debate. 

Congress leaders say in 2017; to oust Congress from power in Manipur, the BJP had allegedly pandered to many 'extremist outfits' from all three major communities -- Kukis, Meiteis and Nagas. 

Hence, the allegation is now the Lotus party is unable to wriggle out of this "chakravyuh" .  One social media user Z K Sumi in Nagaland said - "Such shady deals were more with the Kukis".

Politics is certainly not like 'charity' works of Ram Krishna Mission.

While we talk on these - one point should be kept in mind is that Manipur has its own system of Autonomous District Councils, established by The Manipur (Hill Areas) District Council Act, 1971, which grants "self-governance powers" to the hill areas.

ends