Life Ban on Rahul ??? :: BJP Motion says -- Rahul Gandhi "captured" the most pious dais of Parliament to spread anti India propaganda

 

Stepping up attack on leader of the opposition in Lok Sabha, the BJP on Thursday, Feb 12 hit back at Rahul Gandhi for his attack on the

 government over the trade deal with the US by initiating a "substantive motion".

Under rules, thus is a tool in the legislative body to ensure a discussion and decision on the motion if it is accepted. 

'Thuggery gang to destabilise India’: BJP moves

The Congress said moving the substantive motion was the BJP's “self-defence strategy” against the “facts laid before the nation about the government" by Rahul Gandhi.

BJP MP from Jharkhand Nishikant Dubey  mentioned in the notice that Rahul Gandhi has engaged with the Soros Foundation. 

Rahul Gandhi has engaged with the Soros Foundation, the Ford Foundation, and USAID, and has travelled to countries such as Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and the US to engage in anti-India activities, Nishikant alleged. 

In his notice, Dubey said Gandhi with the help of the foreign organisations has “very cleverly able to captured the most pious dais of Parliament to foment public sentiments, levelling unsubstantiated allegations not only against the Election Commission of India but even our Honourable Supreme Court of India, lowering the dignity of the Government without any substantive evidence and putting various others Institutions in bad light.”

He also alleged that Gandhi had entered into the world of unethical conduct and had become a major constituent of the ‘Thuggery Gang to destabilise India from within’. 

 “The relentless and well-choreographed actions, within and outside Parliament, are inimical to our country, a serious aspect of discussion in the entire nook and corner of the country”.

“If I, as a responsible public representative – even with a small zone of influence and a humble background – also fail to bring this to your kind notice, I would not be doing justice to my constitutional duty of upholding the unity, integrity and sovereignty of our country. In view of this, I wish to bring to your kind notice the following four serious misdemeanours,” Nishikant said in his notice.

Dubey said he demanded the cancellation of Rahul Gandhi’s membership. 

“He should be debarred from contesting the election for life time,” Dubey said.

Dubey also clarified that he has not moved a privilege motion against Gandhi, but given notice for a substantive motion.

Government sources said there is no decision on moving a privilege motion against Rahul Gandhi, but it will seek the removal of more words and lines from the speech that Gandhi has not authenticated so far, from the records.

In the past, the Opposition has rarely used the substantive motion in Lok Sabha.

 In March 1997, then-Lok Sabha Speaker P A Sangma admitted a substantive motion moved by the Opposition BJP regarding the political situation in Uttar Pradesh and the role of then-Governor Romesh Bhandari. The motion was to recall the Governor.

The motion entails a debate followed by a compulsory vote if the notice is accepted and the motion is moved.

Alleging that the government has sold itself, Gandhi, while participating in the Budget discussion Wednesday, claimed that India had “buckled on tariffs, handed over our data, given up control over digital trade rules”. 

“(There is) no data localisation, (there is) free data flow to the US, no source code disclosure, and a 20-year tax holiday. The most valuable asset of ours has been handed over,” he added.

Ends 

Bangladesh mandate may throw up yet another round of Status quo

 Bangladesh mandate may throw up yet another round of  Status quo 

30 Awami League dominated seats - These seats will play a crucial part in a closely fought elections. 

"Tailored election messages are undoubtedly important, but they are often vague, making the accompanying pledges difficult to assess. While it is true that the two leading contenders—the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami—published policy papers ahead of their manifestos, there was little substantive public discussion of those documents. As a result, there was no real pressure to address criticisms or incorporate new ideas into more realistic, measurable action plans. Unsurprisingly, many experts now view these manifestos as laden with over-ambitious and hollow promises," - runs an editorial in Dhaka-based Daily Star.

In other words; in a confusing state of affairs no one is sure who will win Bangladesh polls. Top of that - perhaps no one is sure what will be the consequence of this year's polls and the Referendum.

Blogger 

The Feb 12 polling appears to have relied almost entirely on competing “narratives” crafted and sold by parties and their leaders. Campaign strategists have been largely successful in pushing their respective narratives and counter-narratives, leaving the voters—with little choice.

Taking a closer look by various angles is thus a critical necessity to under Bangladesh and its future.

🛑*Major issues* 

- *Jul 2024 Protest & Aug 5, 2024 Impact*

- *Unemployment

- *First time voters

- *Women Voters Status

-  *Minorities Status -- Crucial from India's perspective

- *Economic Situation

- *Security

One message is : Different power centres will have to align with one another till each one can consolidate strength. 

*Large No of First time & Youth Voters* - Out of

 the total 126 mn voters there are 4.5 mn first

 time voters & 56 mn (18-37 yrs) youth voters

30 Awami League dominated seats - These seats will play a crucial part in a closely fought elections. 

Past Elections in Bangladesh 

*2001 Elections* 

- Awami League suffered a major defeat, winning just 62 seats

- BNP secured a commanding majority with 193 seats. 

- 2001 election marked the last clear transfer of power between the two major parties.

*2009 Elections*

- Awami League-led Grand Alliance returned to power in a landslide.

- Bangladesh’s electoral history post 2009 elections over the past two decades has been predominantly shaped by the Awami League and the party has consolidated its dominance.

*2014 Elections*

- BNP was absent from the contest

- Awami League won a landslide.

*2018 Elections* 

- Awami League further strengthened its grip securing 300 seats and BNP was reduced to just seven seats, its weakest performance on record. 

- Thousands of BNP leaders were arrested in the lead-up to the elections. 

- JeI was banned in 2015, and so it couldn’t contest. 

- International observers and opposition groups described the election as neither free nor fair.

*2024 Elections*

- In 2024 election, the Awami League won 272 seats, maintaining a parliamentary majority. 

- BNP again boycotted, amid deepening repression of opposition leaders. 

- Jamaat continue to be banned.

Now possible scenarios after after Feb 12 polls : 

** Critical for India : 

*Scenario-  A 

- Jamaat achieves majority 

- It continues Muhd Yunus setup

- Likely to attempt to change the Bangladesh Army Chief Gen Waker

- Relations may improve with Pakistan, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and USA

- Relations may become challenging with India

*Scenario-  B 

- Hung assembly BNP has more seats.

- Attempt to break JeI led coalition

- If No elected government then  Yunus government continues

- Bangladesh Army led by Gen Waker role becomes important 

- Relations with India remain the same

Scenario  C 

- BNP achieves majority. Tarique takes over as PM 

- BNP removes Yunus and his associates get a snub

- Likely to take support of the Bangladesh Army led by Gen Waker

- Relations may improve with India.

Political chessboard: 

US President Donald Trump’s weaponisation of tariffs and shifting geopolitical dynamics across Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia have made export growth more difficult.

Imports more uncertain and expensive, and the prospects of attracting investment or aid increasingly bleak. 

Economists pointed out that many of the political pledges or projections—job creation, accelerated growth, and expansive social security—are unlikely to be realised during the next parliamentary term.

Ends 

BNP or Jamaat may not matter much ; but Bangladesh Referendum could be most decisive

 Saying yes or no is inherently difficult because in Bangladesh Referendum as so many issues are bundled together.

 The first paragraph on the ballot states: “The election-time caretaker government, the Election Commission, and other constitutional institutions will be formed in line with the process outlined in the July charter.”

It is followed by another paragraph that reads: “The next parliament will be bicameral. A 100-member upper house will be formed in proportion to the votes received by parties in the national parliamentary election. Approval from a majority of the upper house will be required to amend the constitution.”

Alongside normal parliamentary polls, on Thursday, Feb 12, Bangladesh is also going for a referendum essentially seeking people's mandate for electoral and other major political reforms.

The ballot itself briefly mentions a selection of proposals and presents them as a done deal. The government’s campaign, which is openly in favour of a “yes” vote, claims that a “yes” victory would defeat fascism and asserts that those who want reforms must vote yes, without clearly explaining the full process or all the measures contained in the July charter.

A "no” vote would effectively shut the door on the reform process, which has been described as a core mandate of the interim government. 

The upcoming referendum is unique in the sense that voters will not be the final stop in the process. 

Instead, if the referendum carries -- meaning the “yes” vote prevails -- it will set in motion a sequence of further steps. 

In this referendum, voters will be asked whether they approve the July charter implementation order and a set of proposals presented as a summary of the 47 measures requiring constitutional amendment.

The implementation order outlines a series of steps, including the issuance of another order detailing the referendum, the formation of a constitutional reform council -- effectively another form of the entire parliament -- its deadline, its dissolution, and the formation of an upper chamber, among other measures. 

The ordinance outlining the referendum has already been issued and provides the Election Commission with the legal framework to hold the vote, a step deemed necessary because the prevailing constitution does not contain any provision for referendums.

Under the order, the constitutional reform council will be able to pass July charter recommendations, which in effect amend the constitution, with a simple majority of the entire council -- 151 votes in a 300-member body. The council has a deadline of 180 working days to complete all reforms. However, there is no contingency. The order makes no provision for what happens if the council fails to meet the deadline or does not address all the July charter issues.

Once the council is dissolved, its decisions will be incorporated into the constitution and published as a gazette.

 

There is no way to predict what the final language of the constitution will look like, and voters will have no control over that outcome if they vote yes, says a report in 'Daily Star'. 

Under the order, the constitutional reform council will be able to pass July charter recommendations, which in effect amend the constitution, with a simple majority of the entire council -- 151 votes in a 300-member body. 

The council has a deadline of 180 working days to complete all reforms. However, there is no contingency. The order makes no provision for what happens if the council fails to meet the deadline or does not address all the July charter issues.

Ends 

Feb 11 Myanmar border

 Myanmar Commerce Reshapes Mizoram, 

Champhai (Mizoram) 

— When I landed at the Zokhawthar trade centre on the Indo–Myanmar border in Mizoram, it happened to be the same day the NCB Director was visiting the township. The symbolism was hard to miss: while New Delhi worries about borders and security, life here moves to the rhythm of commerce.

As the saying goes, seeing is believing. By afternoon, the marketplace was alive with brisk negotiations. On the Indian side, traders argued animatedly, offering competitive prices to familiar faces—many of them daily customers from across the border.

“Omlo mo…,” a woman trader protested, refusing to lower her price further. Her customer pushed back theatrically, prompting smiles from onlookers. An Assam Rifles personnel standing nearby remarked, almost amused, that it is often impossible to distinguish between Myanmarese traders and Indian Mizos—the language, culture, and business instincts are shared.

Booming business here is not an exception; it is routine.

Local Mizo traders spoke of logistics—how energy drinks imported in bulk could be transported onward to Champhai, Aizawl, Kolasib, and even Silchar in Assam. “Business is business,” said Bruce P. Hmar tersely, unwilling to be distracted during trading hours. Over dinner later, he was more candid.

“Fencing the border is a mistake,” he argued. “The British divided us whimsically, and Delhi has inherited that legacy.” He dismissed claims of insurgency in Mizoram, stressing instead the region’s commercial potential. “We have the business acumen of Gujaratis and Marwaris. We can transform Mizoram and the Northeast.”

Across this trading ecosystem sits a quieter, more poignant story—that of Myanmar’s children studying in Indian schools.

Jacob, a shy Class VI student from Myanmar, studies in Zokhawthar. “Hindi… theamlo,” he said softly. “I know English.” His dream, if God—Lal Pa—wills it, is to become a pilot. Asked about home, his voice dropped. “My country is burning every day. I am grateful to India and my Mizo brothers and sisters. A big kalawmein.”

Zokhawthar (India) and Rihkhawdar (Myanmar), formalised as a border trade point in 1994, remain a critical—if largely informal—economic lifeline. Agricultural goods such as beans, pulses, vegetables, fruits, spices, and tobacco dominate trade. For nearly six per cent of Mizoram’s population, livelihoods are tied directly or indirectly to this exchange.

Civil conflict in Myanmar has disrupted flows, triggered refugee movements, and forced intermittent closures. Yet commerce adapts, finding ways to survive.

The larger lesson is strategic. Business-to-business interests matter. Opening borders responsibly, investing in all-weather roads near international frontiers, and recognising the Northeast as a global partnership hub—not a peripheral security zone—are overdue policy shifts.

With over 250 ethnic communities, the Northeast has already demonstrated its potential. The 2023 G20-related business meet in Nagaland, attended by delegates from 27 countries, was proof.

At Zokhawthar, the border is not just a line—it is a marketplace, a classroom, and a reminder that integration, not isolation, is how regions truly prosper.

Need for Construction of All-weather roads in all villages located in close proximity to international borders.

With more than 250 ethnic tribes domiciled, the north-eastern states have now become the centre for investment and partnering with other global business communities and a platform for various collaborations.

*** When asked to comment further; analysts said ----- In 2023 when Nagaland hosted business meet related to G20 Summit; 

delegates from 27 countries including delegates from Argentina, Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Canada, China, Costa Rica, Cote D’Ivoire, Cuba, Estonia, Germany, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy. Jamaica, Japan, Nepal made things a Success.

Zokhawthar in Mizoram (India) and Rihkhawdar (Myanmar) form a crucial, yet often informal, border trade point established in 1994, located 510 km from the international border. Key exports include agriculture items (soybeans, red kidney beans), while the trade is deeply linked to regional livelihood and cultural ties. 

Key Aspects of Zokhawthar-Rih Border Trade

Location & Significance: Situated in Mizoram, Zokhawthar acts as a key gateway to Myanmar (Rihkhawdar) and Rih Dil lake, facilitating, for instance, about 6% of Mizoram's population's livelihoods.

Trade Mechanism: Originally authorized under a 1994 agreement, trade includes formal, barter, and, primarily, informal, non-monetized exchanges.

Key Commodities: Trade focuses on agricultural products such as beans, pulses, vegetables, fruits, spices, and tobacco.

ends 

"No copies of the book – in print or digital form – have been published" :::: TURMOIL in Indian Parliament linked to Toolkits for Regime change ??

 

If you ask for rain, of course you will get a soothing atmosphere -- but one has to prepare for mud as well.

This theory applies to Indian polity as much to two principal political parties  the Congress and the BJP. 

Indian politics is in turmoil. It's normal and a welcome development in a democracy. But the nature of geo politics has changed. Toolkits to work for regime change is a normal thing.

Hence whatever happening around is to be taken with a pinch of salt. 

In Parliament the opposition has served a notice for a No Trust motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. For his part the Speaker has decided not to attend House proceedings till the controversy around the episode is resolved. 

Although there is no such compulsion under the rules, Om Birla has chosen not to attend the House. Now, there is a possibility that the motion to remove the Speaker may be taken up for discussion on the very first day of the second part of the Budget Session, that id on March 9.

Under Article 96(1) of the Constitution, a Speaker cannot preside over any sitting, even if present, when a resolution for his or her removal is under consideration.

Om Birla has come under fire from Opposition leaders for not allowing Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi to cite excerpts from former Indian Army Chief General MM Naravane’s unpublished book during his reply to the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address.

“Eight opposition MPs were arbitrarily suspended; they are being penalised merely for exercising democratic rights: Opposition in notice against Speaker,” a communique from opposition said.

Taking to X, Congress MP Manickam Tagore wrote, "The Opposition has placed its faith in constitutional propriety. While holding the Hon’ble Speaker in personal regard, we are pained and anguished by the consistent denial of opportunities to Opposition MPs to raise issues of public importance. After many years, a no-confidence notice against the Speaker has been moved -- an extraordinary step born out of extraordinary circumstances." The issue primarily relates to Rahul's charges against the Indian government based on the content of a book -- which officially has not been published.

The problem revolves around three pillars - Rahul Gandhi, India's defence preparedness, the controversial ex army chief and also PM Narendra Modi as the fourth pillar.

The Congress leader does not realize that mere running DOES NOT make a road shorter. 

Ever since the Modi Govt came to power -- Rahul and Congress have been trying to topple the BJP led regime or make their life difficult by playing unorthodox gamss. 

In 2015, it was Rohit Vemula episode and also the Tukde Tukde gang. Next we had farmers agitation and a few other issues. The Vote chori was pucked up as a major issue but all these did not make Modi's life difficult in real sense.

On the other hand -- Rahul has realised that he cannot defeat Modi by playing normal game of politics.

This is why everytime he wants to corner Modi -- he goes overboard. Remember  'Chowkidar Chor Hae' and how it had boomeranged.

This time too ..... right from the beginning -- Rahul has displayed a sense of entitle. These machinations will not help Rahul or Congress to garner votes. Yet in his T shirt and one liners like Prime Minister and Defence Minister are scared -- Rahul actually only shows a sense of entitlement.

While the Congress party and leaders slavishly endorse his style and unsubstantiated statements; the MODI GOVT handles him with kid gloves. 

The government has repeatedly asserted that General Naravane’s memoir is unpublished and cannot be quoted in the House.

Breaking his silence on the row over his unpublished memoir ‘Four Stars of Destiny’, former Army chief General M M Naravane (retired) has shared a post by publishing house Penguin Random House India in which it said “no copies of the book – in print or digital form – have been published, distributed, sold or otherwise made available to the public”.

Sharing the publisher’s statement, General Naravane said: “This is the status of the book.”

His post came hours after Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi waved a purported copy of the book, told reporters: “Here is a tweet (post on X) from Mr Naravane ji. It’s a tweet that says: ‘Hello friends. My book is available now. Just follow the link. Happy reading. Jai Hind!’ This is a tweet that Mr Naravane has made. You can look into the tweet.”

“So, the point I am making is that either Mr Naravane is lying… and I believe the Army chief, okay? I don’t think he will lie… or Penguin is lying. Somebody needs to clarify… both cannot be telling the truth,” he said.

In its statement Monday, Penguin Random House India said, “In light of recent public discourse and media reporting, Penguin Random House India would like to clarify that we hold the sole publishing rights for the book Four Stars of Destiny, a memoir by General Manoj Mukund Naravane, former Chief of the Indian Army.”

“We wish to make it clear that the book has not gone into publication. No copies of the book – in print or digital form – have been published, distributed, sold, or otherwise made available to the public by Penguin Random House India,” it said.

The controversy related to the book is being probed by Delhi police also.

“Any copies of the book currently in circulation, in whole or in part, whether in print, digital, PDF, or any other format, online or offline, on any platform, constitutes an infringement of PRHI’s copyright and must immediately be ceased,” it said, adding that it “shall be exercising remedies available in law against the illegal and unauthorised dissemination of the book”.

Ends

"Significant political goodwill" -- How 'RSS model' is helping Jamaat's political rise

"I have seen in the news that members of these covert forces were caught by law enforcement while trying to make fake [ballot] seals. Therefore, we must remain alert to ensure that no one can enter with fake seals in their pockets," BNP chief Tarique Rehman said.

“You must stay alert. In the area, in the neighborhoods, you must keep an eye on things, so that these covert forces cannot go and confuse the people. Will you be able to do that?" Tarique said in an election meeting in Dhaka.

Electioneering has picked up in Bangladesh and hence among many other issues, the rise of Jamaat is also being debated. 

Perhaps the most striking, and largely unforeseen, political developments in Bangladesh has been the unprecendented surge in support for Jamaat-e-Islami since Aug 2024.

The Islamist party’s rise has been so dramatic that, although recent polling suggests the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is likely to secure a majority in the February 12 election, some commentators argue that the Jamaat-led alliance could still emerge victorious. 

Which model of politics has worked so well for them ? The answer can be BJP in India and the RSS Model. How ? 

Jamaat’s response reinforced its image as a disciplined organisation capable of translating its resources into tangible support. 

From 2024; the Jamaat  is pushing 

--- welfare politics— Its getting into charitable works and becoming more  visible into mutiple sectors. They are displaying themselves as members of an organised and disciplined body. Ghis has made a mark with middle class because so far all parties of Bangladesh basically were practicing hooliganism.

Are we smelling -- the party with a difference tag associated with the BJP ?  

Another cornerstone of Jamaat’s strategy has been around building "reputation" for probity and claimed to be corruption free nation.

On this both Awami League and BNP have reputation of being highly involved in corruption cases.

 When the Hasina government fell and the manner she was ousted; many Bangladeshis presumed this would mark the end of systematic extortion  and syndicate-run business and the general business of politics. 

Source say since 2024, many of the extortion networks previously controlled by Awami League cadres were quickly taken over by BNP-aligned groups. 

Again Jamaat is not seen involved in this and this is also a case of 'party with a difference'. 

Jamaat is seen as an outfit which collided with Pakistanis and allegedly opposed the independence of the new nation in 1971. But for a growing and increasingly influential younger demographic, 1971 feels distant, abstract, and less relevant to their immediate socio economic concerns.

However, Jamaat has not entirely escaped its past. It is still, at times, forced to defend its position regarding 1971. This is what happens with BJP and RSS too. 

Following the fall of Awami League, hundreds of families were grieving lost relatives, and thousands more were caring for those seriously injured. 

Jamaat mobilised systematically to identify these families and, where possible, provide direct assistance—reportedly giving at least Tk 100,000 to each bereaved household and financial support to many of the injured, often through hospital visits. 

The two other parties do not have such positive image.

For a large portion of the electorate, Jamaat’s role during the Liberation War is no longer politically important.

Several factors may help explain this shift. First, the senior Jamaat figures accused of involvement in 1971-era crimes were convicted and executed during Awami League’s time in office.

 

The collapse of Awami League has significantly weakened the potency of its long-standing political narratives, one of which centred on repeatedly invoking Jamaat’s alleged war-crimes legacy. 

There were no widespread reports of Jamaat-run extortion rackets or organised corruption at the grassroots. 

This distinction, in their mind, reflects a deeper structural difference.

 Many local BNP activists apparently support the party in the expectation that access to power will bring financial opportunity. 

While individual BNP politicians did offer aid in some cases, their efforts were neither as extensive nor as coordinated. 

Organisational discipline

Jamaat has benefited from its organisational strength. 

Almost immediately after the fall of Awami League, it began preparing in earnest for elections.

Jamaat has invested heavily in face-to-face voter engagement, including extensive door-to-door outreach in rural areas—an approach that RSS also does.

Jamaat as the party of ‘change’

Following the fall of Awami League, there was a widespread public desire for change—change from autocracy, entrenched corruption, and what many described as the country’s “tired old politics.” In a political contest between BNP and Jamaat, it is Jamaat that, for some voters, is likely to more convincingly embody that sense of renewal.

Jamaat is often viewed as an outsider party, not deeply embedded in the patronage and corruption networks.

Ends 

Awami League leaders in exile welcome RSS chief ststement on Hindu unity

 RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat has said on Sunday that Hindus in India and everywhereelse would extend all possible support “within our limitations”.

He called upon Hindus in Bangladesh to unite and “fight”, assuring them of support from Hindus in India and across the world.

The RSS chief statement has been welcomed by the Awami League leaders in exile.

 Former Awami League MP Pankaj Nath said such statements give Hindus in Bangladesh the much needed morale booster and a big message that Hindus outght to remain united.

RSS chief urged the Centre to adopt a tougher stance against “infiltrators”, suggesting controversially that “their language gives them away”.

Asked about the Bangladesh situation and its implications for India’s security, Bhagwat claimed that the Hindus in Bangladesh had this time decided not to flee in the face of adversity.

“There are still around 1.25 crore Hindus in Bangladesh. If they unite, they can use the political system there for their own benefit and security, but they have to come together,” Bhagwat said, answering audience questions after delivering a lecture in Mumbai on the Sangh’s completion of 100 years.

Bhagwat said: “They have decided they will stay there and fight. If they are going to fight, unity will be essential. The sooner they unite, the better.”

Awami League leader Pankaj Nath speaking from his hideout said -- 

"RSS  chief Mr Bhagwat has spoken like the guardian of Hindus. And this is what I like about the statement at this criyical juncture".

To a question Nath said --- "Feb 12 elections will be important but as we the Awami League is not in this year's polls... this means its not inclusive."

He also said voters turnout will be less because Awami League supporters may stay away from voting". 

Sairang–Silchar (Assam) train service inaugursted

  Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw on Monday virtually inaugurated the Sairang–Silchar (Assam) train service from Guwahati, along with the Blended Hospitality Service at Guwahati Railway Station. 

The train was formally flagged off at Sairang Railway Station by Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma, accompanied by members of his council of ministers.

The Railway Minister, in his address, stated that extensive work is underway to improve connectivity in Assam and the entire Northeast, with several new projects being taken up and many long-pending projects already completed. 

He noted that over the past 11 years, nearly 1,900 kilometres of new Railway tracks have been constructed across Northeast, marking a transformational phase for rail infrastructure in the region.

Vaishnaw highlighted that the train service flagged off today between Silchar and Sairang adds a new dimension to the benefits being extended to the people of Mizoram and Assam. 

He observed that the extension of Railway connectivity to Sairang had been inaugurated a few months ago by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, followed by the introduction of new train services and that the Government has been receiving positive feedbacks from citizens regarding improved connectivity to Mizoram.

Addressing the gathering at Sairang train station, the state Chief Minister stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Act East Policy has elevated Mizoram and the North Eastern region to a more prominent position in the nation’s development journey.

 He observed that areas once considered remote are now experiencing transformative connectivity, with the Sairang–Silchar rail service marking a major milestone in that progress.

Lalduhoma said the new rail link would further strengthen connectivity with Assam, expand market access for Mizoram’s agricultural produce—particularly ginger and other crops—and reinforce the State’s flagship Bana Kaih (hand-holding) scheme. 

He expressed gratitude to the Union Railway Minister for acceding to his request to operationalise the Sairang–Silchar service.

Highlighting the strategic importance of Silchar, the Chief Minister described it as not merely a neighbouring city but a vital economic gateway for Mizoram, adding that the new service would significantly contribute to the State’s economic growth.

He also recalled that Sairang Railway Station, inaugurated five months ago by the Prime Minister, has already witnessed substantial developmental activity within a short period. Commending the efforts of the Ministry of Railways—particularly the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), Lumding Division—he acknowledged their role in advancing rail infrastructure in the region.

The Chief Minister further stressed the need for a warehouse facility at Sairang Railway Station to support the Handholding Scheme and local entrepreneurs. He also urged the early finalisation of the rail line to Thenzawl Peace City and advocated for extending the Delhi–Silchar Rajdhani Express up to Sairang.

Following the inauguration, Lalduhoma reviewed the proposed design for upgrading Sairang Railway Station into a World Class Railway Station. 

Railway officials informed him that Rs. 97 crore has been sanctioned for the project, tenders have been issued, and the opening of tenders is expected in March. 

A press statement issued by the Railway Ministry said the Sairang–Silchar Passenger Train will significantly strengthen rail connectivity between Mizoram and Assam. The service will benefit the people of Silchar as well as Mizoram by improving access to education, healthcare, markets and administrative centres. 

It is expected to boost tourism, facilitate easier movement of goods between the two states, enable the supply of goods manufactured in Mizoram to markets in Silchar and reduce dependence on road transport, particularly in the hilly terrain.

 

Ends

Supreme Court issues show cause notice to the West Bengal DGP

 Supreme Court issues show cause notice to the West Bengal DGP, directing him to file a personal affidavit on allegations that the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls was crippled by threats, violence and intimidation, as flagged by the Election Commission of India #westbengalsir #SupremeCourt. 

Supreme Court delivers a major setback to the Mamata Banerjee govt.

No stay on SIR, full backing to the Election Commission’s authority. Form-7 objections must be considered regardless of personal presence. State’s failure to appoint senior EROs exposed, EC empowered to act against errant officials without state interference. Intimidation of citizens noted; DGP summoned.

The Court also took on record the failure of the state government to post EROs of appropriate seniority, acknowledging that this administrative lapse directly affected the SIR process. As a result, the Mamata Banerjee government was forced to finally provide adequate manpower for the revision exercise. It has made it clear that micro-observers will continue in their supporting role and that EROs must take decisions strictly as per law, not political convenience. Rule of law will prevail in Bengal.

The Supreme Court’s observations on the plea filed by the West Bengal government are nothing short of a major blow to Mamata Banerjee. The Court has unequivocally upheld the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) and refused to grant any stay, firmly endorsing the Election Commission’s statutory authority. It has made it clear that micro-observers will continue in their supporting role and that EROs must take decisions strictly as per law, not political convenience. Crucially, the Supreme Court has held that objections filed in Form 7 must be considered under the statutory scheme irrespective of the personal presence of the objector, a direct rejection of the attempts to dilute citizens’ rights. The Court also took on record the failure of the state government to post EROs of appropriate seniority, acknowledging that this administrative lapse directly affected the SIR process. As a result, the Mamata Banerjee government was forced to finally provide adequate manpower for the revision exercise. Had the state government acted responsibly earlier, ordinary citizens of Bengal would not have been subjected to what the Chief Minister herself termed as “harassment.” Most significantly, EROs are now on clear notice. The Supreme Court has unambiguously empowered the Election Commission to take disciplinary action against errant officials without routing it through the state government. Partisan conduct, political pressure, and deviation from service standards will no longer be tolerated. The Court also took cognisance of targeted intimidation and violence against conscientious citizens who filed Form 7 objections. It has recorded the abject failure of the state to maintain law and order and has directed the DGP (in-charge) to explain this breakdown. This order reinforces one simple truth: constitutional institutions will not bend before political pressure and the rule of law will prevail in Bengall, says BJP.

Delhi Police files case over leak of ex-Army chief's unapproved book 'Four Stars of Destiny

 Delhi Police files case over leak of ex-Army chief's unapproved book 'Four Stars of Destiny'

The Delhi Police has taken cognisance of information circulating on social media platforms and online news forums claiming that a pre-print copy of a book titled Four Stars of Destiny is being circulated without mandatory clearance from competent authorities, an official statement said.

Gen Naravane - ex army chief 

Delhi Police has registered a case over the alleged leak and online circulation of a pre-print PDF of Four Stars of Destiny, the unpublished memoir of former Army chief MM Naravane, which lacks mandatory clearance.

The case was registered hours after a section of media reported how Congress leader Rahul Gandhi got an unpublished book by Ex-Army chief General Naravane which was not meant to go to press without clearance from the Ministry of Defence (MoD). 

 Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said such a book "does not exist".

Upon verification, it was found that a PDF copy of a type-set book with the same title and apparently prepared by M/s Penguin Random House India Pvt Ltd is available on certain websites and, also, some online marketing platforms have displayed the finished book cover as if it is available for purchase,” the statement read.

The police said they registered a case with the Special Cell to carry out a thorough investigation into the purported leak or breach of a yet-to-be-approved publication, and the investigation is being taken up.

The Delhi Police has registered an FIR over the alleged circulation of an unpublished book authored by former Chief of Army Staff MM Naravane on social media, an official statement said on Monday.

The case was registered hours after India Today reported how Congress leader Rahul Gandhi got an unpublished book by Ex-Army chief General Naravane which was not meant to go to press without clearance from the Ministry of Defence (MoD), and which Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said "does not exist".

“The Delhi Police has taken cognisance of information circulating on social media platforms and online news forums claiming that a pre-print copy of a book titled Four Stars of Destiny is being circulated without mandatory clearance from competent authorities,” the statement said.

According to the police, it was also reported that the necessary clearance for the publication of the book is yet to be received from the relevant authorities.

“Upon verification, it was found that a PDF copy of a type-set book with the same title and apparently prepared by M/s Penguin Random House India Pvt Ltd is available on certain websites and, also, some online marketing platforms have displayed the finished book cover as if it is available for purchase,” the statement read.

The police said they registered a case with the Special Cell to carry out a thorough investigation into the purported leak or breach of a yet-to-be-approved publication, and the investigation is being taken up.

The issue also spilled into politics after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was seen flashing a purported copy of the book in the Parliament complex last week. The matter generated significant controversy, with proceedings of the Lok Sabha getting disrupted and eight MPs suspended for the remaining part of the ongoing Budget session.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not come to the Lok Sabha to reply to the discussion on the motion of thanks to the President's address as he was scared of the issue of former army chief MM Naravane's book.

Rahul Gandhi further accused Defence Minister Rajnath Singh of making a “false claim” that the book was unpublished. “The book has been published and we have got a copy of it,” LoP said, adding that it was available abroad but not permitted to be published in India.