As the clock strikes midnight, India stands on the cusp of a significant legislative shift with the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Passed by the Parliament in 2019, the act has been a subject of intense debate and widespread protests across the nation. Today, it moves from the echelons of parliamentary papers to the reality of the Indian populace.
The CAA aims to expedite the citizenship process for six religious minorities who have fled to India due to religious persecution in their home countries. This act is not just a document; it’s a beacon of hope for many who have sought refuge under the vast sky of the Indian subcontinent. However, it also raises questions about the secular fabric of the nation and the implications for the existing societal structure.
The government’s decision to implement the CAA now, ahead of the Lok Sabha election, is a strategic move that has reignited discussions on national identity, citizenship, and human rights. Critics argue that the act discriminates based on religion, undermining the secular principles enshrined in the Constitution. Supporters, however, see it as a fulfilment of a historical assurance given to those minorities at the time of partition.
The CAA’s journey has been tumultuous, marked by fervent opposition and passionate support. Protests in Shaheen Bagh and other parts of the country became symbols of resistance, while political rallies showcased the act as a promise kept. The COVID-19 pandemic may have dampened the streets’ cries, but the ideological battle continued to simmer beneath the surface.
Now, as the act takes effect, the government has a colossal task ahead. It must ensure that the CAA’s implementation is smooth, transparent, and sensitive to the concerns of all communities. The administration must walk the tightrope between granting citizenship to the persecuted and preserving the nation’s secular ethos.
The CAA’s implementation is not just about the letter of the law; it’s about the spirit of India. It’s about how the nation views itself and its place in the world. It’s a test of India’s commitment to humanitarian values while safeguarding its own cultural and social fabric.
As India navigates through these complex waters, the world watches. Will the CAA be a testament to India’s compassion and respect for human rights, or will it be a point of contention that divides the nation further? Only time will tell.
But tonight, as the CAA becomes a reality, India embarks on a path that will undoubtedly shape its future and the lives of millions. It’s a new dawn, one that brings with it light for some and shadows for others. The nation must strive to ensure that this dawn leads to a day that is just and equitable for all. It’s a narrative that intertwines hope, apprehension, and the quest for a harmonious future.
In a landmark move to enhance transparency in political funding, the Supreme Court of India, led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, has taken a firm stance against the State Bank of India’s (SBI) non-compliance with a crucial court order. The apex court’s directive was clear: SBI was to disclose details of electoral bonds to the Election Commission by March 15, 2024, a measure aimed at shedding light on anonymous political donations.
The electoral bond scheme, introduced as a means to fund political parties, has been shrouded in secrecy, with donors and recipients remaining anonymous. This lack of transparency has raised concerns about the influence of undisclosed financial contributions on the democratic process. Recognizing the potential implications on the electorate’s right to information, the Supreme Court deemed the scheme unconstitutional and ordered the immediate disclosure of all bond transactions.
Despite the court’s clear instructions, SBI sought an extension, citing the need for more time to collate and match details, a request that was promptly dismissed by the bench. The court’s rebuke was a reminder of the judiciary’s commitment to uphold the constitution and the citizens’ right to information. Chief Justice Chandrachud, known for his judicious and progressive outlook, emphasized the urgency of compliance, warning SBI of potential contempt proceedings in case of further delays.
The case against the State Bank of India (SBI) regarding electoral bonds was rooted in concerns over transparency and the right to information. The Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, had previously declared the electoral bond scheme unconstitutional, citing violations of citizens’ right to information. The scheme, introduced by the Union government in 2018, allowed for anonymous donations to political parties, raising questions about the influence of undisclosed funds on democratic processes.
The court’s decision mandated SBI to cease issuing electoral bonds and to disclose all details of the bonds encashed so far. Despite this, SBI failed to comply with the order, leading to the petitioner’s return to court. The Supreme Court’s dismissal of SBI’s appeal for an extension underscored the judiciary’s commitment to enforcing transparency in political funding. The bank was ordered to publish the information by a set deadline or face contempt proceedings. This case highlights the ongoing struggle to balance the need for political funding with the public’s right to know the sources of such funding.
The court’s order represents a pivotal moment in India’s ongoing battle for transparency in electoral financing. By compelling SBI to file an affidavit confirming the execution of the order and mandating the publication of bond details on the Election Commission’s website, the judiciary has sent a strong message about the importance of accountability in the country’s financial and political spheres.
As the deadline approaches, all eyes are on SBI and the Election Commission to follow through on the Supreme Court’s directive. The outcome of this compliance will not only reflect the institutions’ respect for the judiciary but also set a precedent for future governance and the sanctity of the electoral process.
The unfolding events serve as a testament to the judiciary’s role as the guardian of constitutional values and the public’s right to know. In a democracy, the flow of information is the lifeblood of informed decision-making, and the Supreme Court’s actions reinforce the principle that transparency is not just a virtue but a prerequisite for a healthy democratic society.
The Supreme Court’s intervention in the electoral bond issue is a significant step towards demystifying the financial mechanisms that drive political campaigns. It underscores the need for openness and accountability, ensuring that the electorate is fully informed about the sources of political funding. As India continues to navigate the complexities of its democratic processes, the judiciary’s role in safeguarding transparency remains crucial. The nation watches with bated breath as the SBI and the Election Commission work to meet the court’s expectations, a task that will undoubtedly shape the future of electoral integrity in India.
The court’s decision has brought to light the often overlooked actions and agendas of political parties, which claim to serve the public and their ideologies. It questions why these parties only now choose to disclose certain matters to the public, despite previously professing their philosophies and philanthropy to society. The ruling also casts doubt on the intentions of politicians, bureaucrats, and others who play a significant role in both governance and society. It signals a pivotal moment for these individuals to reflect on their behavior and its impact on sustaining a robust democracy.
Kolkata: In a surprising turn of events, Mamata regretted Arjun’s candidature but Bengal leader of Opposition Subhendu Adhikari stated that the door was open for him. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has managed to lure a prominent Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader, Arjun, to join its ranks. This unexpected development has sent shockwaves through West Bengal’s political environment, as discussions surrounding the implications of this move abound.
Before Arjun’s defection, the TMC had enjoyed a significant majority in the state, largely due to its charismatic leader, Mamata Banerjee. The TMC’s stronghold in West Bengal posed a challenge to the BJP’s desire to expand its influence beyond its traditional strongholds. However, with Arjun now joining forces with the BJP, a new dynamic has emerged that could potentially tilt the scales of power in the region.
Arjun, known for his strong grassroots support and influential role within the TMC, brings considerable political capital to the BJP. His defection has not only reinforced the ideological shift seen in West Bengal’s political landscape but has also raised questions about the TMC’s ability to retain its key leaders amidst the BJP’s growing appeal.
Observers suggest that the BJP’s ability to attract Arjun can be attributed to the party’s organizational network and proactive efforts to expand its presence in West Bengal. This successful manoeuvre is seen as a testament to the BJP’s determination to secure a foothold in the state, and a potential eye-opener for Mamata Banerjee and the TMC.
The impact of Arjun’s defection has quickly rippled through the TMC, triggering a series of apprehensions within the party. The move is expected to strain the already precarious balance within the TMC, with concerns mounting over further potential defections. TMC leaders, hand-wringing over the possible erosion of their support base, now face the daunting task of quelling any growing disaffection among their ranks.
Furthermore, Arjun’s decision to align himself with the BJP has not only exposed the TMC’s vulnerabilities but also highlighted the party’s inability to address the concerns and aspirations of certain sections of West Bengal’s population. The BJP’s knack for tapping into such sentiments has played a pivotal role in its growing appeal, leading to the erosion of the TMC’s once-unassailable position in the state.
The BJP, buoyed by Arjun’s defection, has declared this move as a sign of mounting discontent within the TMC itself. They believe that it marks a turning point for West Bengal’s politics and portends a potential shift in power dynamics within the state. The party anticipates that Arjun’s influence within his constituencies will attract more followers, thereby further denting the TMC’s stronghold.
In the coming weeks, all eyes will be on how the TMC handles this jolt, and whether Mamata Banerjee can stem the tide of defections within her party. The BJP, on the other hand, will aim to capitalize on Arjun’s broad appeal to consolidate its power in West Bengal further.
As West Bengal braces itself for a turbulent period of political upheaval, the ramifications of Arjun’s defection remain to be seen. Will the BJP’s strategic move pave the way for a significant power shift in the state, or will the TMC rebound against the odds? Only time will reveal the answer to this suspenseful political tale.
Ranchi EW News: The Superintendent of Police, Ranchi, Mr. Chandan Kumar Sinha, organized a monthly crime conference at the Conference Hall of the Headquarters Block-B. The meeting was attended by all the in-charge officers of the district, OCs, area inspectors, sub-divisional police officers, deputy superintendents of police, and deputy superintendent of police, rural and urban Ranchi.
Apart from crime control, the main focus of the conference was to conduct free, fair, and peaceful Lok Sabha elections-2024.
Key Directions Given in the Meeting:
Each locality of the city will be divided into beats, and responsible officers will be appointed for each beat to ensure effective crime control. Instructions have been given to initiate the beat system within three days to ensure effective patrolling and crime prevention. In rural areas, 2-3 panchayats will be combined to appoint a police nodal officer responsible for maintaining contact with local representatives, gathering intelligence, and actively pursuing criminals in the area. Orders were issued to create a database of criminals, conduct raids against fugitives, take effective action against anti-social elements, crack down on illegal trafficking of intoxicants, and present witnesses in court promptly to ensure swift justice.
Enhancing Traffic Management:
To improve traffic management, instructions were given to coordinate with the municipal corporation to remove temporary encroachments on roads and ensure smoother traffic flow.
Rapid Response Based on Public Complaints:
A district control room (C.C.R.) has been established to promptly respond to complaints and information regarding the production and trafficking of illegal and narcotic substances beyond the normal duration of the code of conduct. A special response team has been formed to take effective action.
Monitoring Night Patrols:
Instructions have been given to register night patrol teams and document their activities during patrols. Supervision of these patrols will be carried out by senior officers.
Special Campaign Starting Tomorrow:
A special campaign will be launched from tomorrow to apprehend wanted criminals and absconders.
Crackdown on Encroachments:
To maintain better traffic flow, temporary encroachments on roads will be removed in coordination with the municipal corporation.
Vehicle Inspection Intensified:
A thorough inspection of vehicles will be conducted to prevent the use of stolen vehicles. Vehicle owners are urged to carry necessary documents with them.
Weekly Review of Directives:
Every Sunday, a review of the above directives will be conducted, and action will be taken against negligent and incompetent officers.
In March, 30 criminals have been identified for district-wide crackdown, with proposals to be sent to Ranchi within a week. These measures aim to enhance security, curb crime, and ensure public safety in Ranchi.
In the realm of democratic governance, the integrity and impartiality of electoral processes stand as pillars ensuring fair representation and the will of the people. Central to this principle is the role of Election Commissioners, tasked with upholding the sanctity of elections. However, recent events have cast a shadow over this crucial institution, as the resignation of an Election Commissioner comes under intense scrutiny and raises questions about the transparency of the electoral process.
The resignation of an Election Commissioner is not an everyday occurrence. Therefore, when news of such an event breaks, it naturally triggers a wave of speculation and inquiry. In the case at hand, the circumstances surrounding the resignation have sparked controversy and scepticism, with many questioning the timing and motivations behind the Commissioner’s departure. One of the primary concerns raised by observers is the timing of the resignation. Elections are a pivotal moment in any democracy, and the absence of a key electoral overseer just ahead of significant polls can sow seeds of doubt regarding the integrity of the process.
Critics argue that resigning so close to an election could disrupt the electoral machinery and undermine public confidence in the fairness of the proceedings. Before the declaration of the Lok Sabha elections 2024 schedule, Arun Goel, the Election The Commissioner of India tendered his resignation, which was subsequently approved by the President of India. Arun Goel was positioned to succeed as the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), with the current CEC, Rajiv Kumar. While the reason behind Goel’s resignation is not yet known, some media reports claimed that there were “differences on various issues”. Meanwhile, some reports said that he resigned owing to “personal reasons”. Notably, Goel’s tenure was till December 5, 2027.
Arun Goel, the second-highest official in the Election Commission of India, resigned in November 2022. His appointment was questioned in the Supreme Court, and some media reports have indicated that there were “differences on various issues”. In a letter, Goel cited “personal reasons” for his resignation, while also claiming that his appointment is arbitrary and violative of institutional integrity and independence of the Election Commission.
The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), an NGO, has also filed a public interest litigation (PIL) petition in the Supreme Court challenging Goel’ appointment, claiming that due procedure had not been followed. The Supreme Court has repeatedly stressed that an independent Election Commission of India is part of the basic structure of the Constitution, and it is a gift to the nation. The Carter Center says that the administration of the election has been fair and impartial between all the political parties taking part. The Mint says that the idea is widely welcomed, for a panel on which the Judiciary holds the balance of power would keep the process above political affiliations.
The recent resignation of an Election Commissioner has sent shockwaves through thepolitical landscape, raising questions about the impartiality and integrity of the Election Commission. As a cornerstone of democracy, the Election Commission plays a crucial role in ensuring free and fair elections. However, the resignation has cast a shadow over its credibility, leaving many citizens and stakeholders concerned about the future of electoral processes. The resignation comes at a critical time when trust in electoral institutions is already fragile.
Elections are the foundation of democracy, providing citizens with the opportunity to participate in governance and hold their leaders accountable. Central to the democratic process is the belief that elections are conducted fairly and without bias. Any indication of partiality or interference undermines this fundamental principle and erodes public confidence in the electoral system. The departure of an Election Commissioner is not an ordinary event and raises serious questions about the reasons behind such a decision. While officials may resign for personal or professional reasons, in this case, the circumstances surrounding the resignation have fueled speculation and mistrust. Allegations of political pressure, interference, or misconduct could further undermine the public’s faith in the Election Commission’s ability to perform its duties impartially.
The impartiality of the Election Commission is essential for ensuring that all political parties and candidates have an equal opportunity to compete in elections. Any perception of bias can lead to accusations of favouritism, manipulation, or electoral fraud, jeopardizing the legitimacy of election outcomes. In a democratic society, every citizen must have confidence that their vote counts and that the electoral process is transparent and fair. Moreover, the resignation of an Election Commissioner can disrupt the functioning of the Election Commission and create uncertainty regarding its leadership and decision-making processes. A sudden vacancy in such a critical position requires swift action to ensure continuity and stability within the institution. Failure to address these concerns promptly could further undermine public trust and confidence in the electoral process.
To restore faith in the Election Commission, it is essential to address the underlying issues that led to the resignation and demonstrated a commitment to transparency, accountability, and impartiality. This may involve conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the resignation, ensuring that electoral processes are free from political interference, and implementing reforms to strengthen the independence and integrity of the Election Commission. Furthermore, political leaders and stakeholders must refrain from exploiting the situation for partisan gain and instead work towards safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process. The credibility of the Election Commission is essential for the stability and legitimacy of democracy and all efforts must be made to uphold its impartiality and independence.
In conclusion, the resignation of the Election Commissioner has raised serious concerns about the impartiality of the Election Commission and the integrity of electoral processes. Steps must be taken to address these concerns, restore public trust, and reaffirm the commitment to free and fair elections. Upholding the principles of democracy requires a robust and impartial electoral system that ensures the voice of the people is heard and respected. The resignation of an Election Commissioner can reverberate through the political landscape, sending ripples of uncertainty and speculation. The Election Commission of India is the cornerstone of the world’s largest democracy, entrusted with the vital responsibility of conducting free and fair elections. Any disruption within its ranks inevitably raises questions about the integrity and transparency of the electoral process. With the Lok Sabha elections looming on the horizon, the resignation of an Election Commissioner assumes even greater significance, potentially shaping the course and outcome of the electoral contest.
The recent resignation of an Election Commissioner has stirred a flurry of debates and discussions across political circles. While the reasons behind the resignation may vary, ranging from personal to professional, its timing cannot be overlooked. With the Lok Sabha elections drawing closer, every decision and development within the Election Commission assumes heightened importance. One of the immediate impacts of the resignation is the potential delay or disruption in the election process. The Election Commission operates on a principle of collegiality, with decisions being made collectively by the Chief Election Commissioner and the other Election Commissioners. The sudden departure of a Commissioner can disrupt this balance, leading to delays in crucial decision-making processes related to election schedules, polling arrangements, and implementation of electoral reforms.
Furthermore, the resignation may also raise concerns about the credibility and impartiality of the Election Commission. In a democracy, the faith of the electorate in the electoral process is paramount. Any perception of bias or lack of independence within the Election Commission can undermine public trust and confidence in the electoral outcomes. Therefore, it becomes imperative for the remaining members of the Commission to reassure the public of their commitment to upholding the integrity of the electoral process. The political fallout of the resignation cannot be underestimated either. In the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections, political parties are constantly jockeying for advantage, seeking to gain electoral mileage through strategic manoeuvres. The resignation of an Election Commissioner can provide fodder for political mudslinging, with opposition parties alleging foul play and demanding transparency in the appointment of a replacement. The ruling party, on the other hand, may seek to downplay the significance of the resignation and emphasize the continuity and stability of the electoral process.
Moreover, the resignation may also impact the dynamics of election campaigning. Political parties often rely on the perceived impartiality of the Election Commission to adjudicate disputes and ensure a level playing field during elections. The absence of a full complement of Commissioners may lead to concerns about the Commission’s ability to effectively address complaints of electoral malpractice and enforce the model code of conduct. In conclusion, the resignation of an Election Commissioner has far-reaching implications for the conduct and outcome of the Lok Sabha elections. It underscores the importance of maintaining the independence and integrity of the Election Commission, as well as the need for transparency and accountability in the electoral process. As the country gears up for one of the largest democratic exercises in the world, the onus is on all stakeholders to uphold the sanctity of the electoral process and ensure that the voice of the electorate is heard loud and clear.
Ultimately, the controversy surrounding the resignation of an Election Commissioner underscores the fragility of democratic processes and the importance of safeguarding their integrity. Upholding the principles of transparency, accountability, and independence is essential to preserving the credibility of elections and maintaining public trust in the democratic system. As such, it is incumbent upon all stakeholders – from government officials to civil society organizations to ordinary citizens – to ensure that electoral processes remain free from undue influence and manipulation.
Ranchi EW News: The Chief Electoral Officer of Jharkhand, K. Ravi Kumar, stated that on voting day, ordinary citizens should not face any inconvenience due to vehicular movement. Particularly, voters traveling to exercise their franchise should not encounter any difficulties reaching their polling stations. He emphasized that the Election Commission of India’s endeavor is to maximize voter turnout in Jharkhand state. Addressing the officials responsible for vehicle management regarding the Vehicle Management System (VMS) developed by the National Informatics Centre, he highlighted that this system would facilitate smooth management of vehicles for elections. Payment to vehicle owners, petrol pump owners, and vehicle operators related to election duties can be settled on the day after polling, ensuring transparency and timely payments. He was addressing a training session on VMS organized for officials involved in vehicle management for elections across all districts.
Effective Implementation of Model Code of Conduct to Ensure Compliance with Motor Vehicle Act Provisions
He instructed all transportation officials, administrative staff, and police officers to ensure prompt action against any unauthorized use of vehicles, banners, advertisements, or colorful stickers without proper authorisation, in accordance with the provisions of the Motor Vehicle Act and the effective implementation of the Model Code of Conduct. He also emphasized that individuals involved in willful violations in transportation arrangements during elections would face consequences.
The Chief Electoral Officer highlighted the importance of celebrating upcoming Lok Sabha elections as a grand festival of democracy. He stressed the need to work for the convenience of voters and election-related staff to ensure a clean, impartial, and smooth voting process. A login panel has been created on the VMS web portal for all district officials, enabling them to manage vehicles used in election activities and make payments to vendors. He urged officials to promptly update backlogged data on the portal to avoid any payment-related issues during Lok Sabha elections. Continuous monitoring of the Vehicle Management System will be ensured at the office level across all districts to manage transportation effectively during elections. The training workshop included live demonstrations of the VMS web portal by officials from the NIC through both online and offline mediums. Secretary of the Transport Department, Kripa Nand Jha, and Inspector General of Police, Indrajit Mahatha, also addressed the program. District Transport Officers, Motor Vehicle Inspectors, and relevant Deputy Superintendents of Police from all districts were present at the event.
MP Seth’s Initiative: Gel India’s Seal of Approval
Ranchi EW News : Inspired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, a program to combat malnutrition has been initiated in Ranchi. Under this program, with the support of Gel India Limited, MP Sanjay Seth’s initiative to distribute nutrition kits among pregnant women will be implemented. Speaking to journalists in Ranchi, MP Sanjay Seth said that he has been working towards this initiative for a long time to ensure that pregnant women have access to nutrition kits. This effort has been highly successful. Through the CSR of Gel India, more than 2,500 nutrition kits will be distributed among pregnant women in the Ranchi Lok Sabha constituency. These nutrition kits include ghee, dry fruit laddoos, protein powder, various nutritious seeds, and laddoos made from coarse grains, which are considered essential for the health of pregnant women and their unborn babies from a nutritional perspective. MP Sanjay Seth informed journalists that this kit has been prepared based on the advice of medical professionals, and a list of beneficiaries has been prepared accordingly. Distribution will take place in the Ranchi, Hatia, Kanke, Ichagarh, Silli, and Khijri assembly constituencies of the Ranchi Lok Sabha constituency. MP Sanjay Seth said that the slogan of “Save the Daughter, Educate the Daughter” by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inspires work in such areas. With this inspiration, I have made this effort, which has now been successful. MP Seth mentioned that the cost of one kit is approximately ₹2500. The aim is to distribute this kit to about 2500 women in the first phase, and further improvements will be made after the elections. On this occasion, several dignitaries were present, including MLA Shri CP Singh, Ranchi Lok Sabha constituency in-charge Shri Sanjeev Vijayvargiya, Ranchi urban BJP president Shri Varun Sahu, Ranchi rural district president Shri Surendra Mahato, former Rajya Sabha MP Shri Ajay Maru, and former MLA Shri Ram Kumar Pahan.
ISLAMABAD: Asif Ali Zardari, the widower of Pakistan’s slain first female premier Benazir Bhutto who has had a life storied equally by tragedy and farce, is set to become president for a second time on Saturday. Initially a background character as Bhutto’s consort, Zardari was stained by a bevvy of corruption and other allegations, including absurd kidnapping plots and taking kickbacks lavished on hoards of jewellery.
Despite a reputation as “Mr Ten Percent” the alleged cut he took for rubber-stamping contracts — a sympathy vote propelled him to office when his wife was assassinated in a 2007 bomb and gun attack. Between 2008 and 2013, he ushered in constitutional reforms rolling back presidential powers, and the 68-year-old’s second term will see him steer a largely ceremonial office.
He has spent more than 11 years in jail, a long time even by the standards of Pakistani politicians, with a wheeler-dealer’s talent for bouncing back after scandals. In 2009, the New York Times said he had a knack for “artful dodging” — “manoeuvring himself out of the tight spots he gets himself into”. Newly sworn-in lawmakers were set to vote him in under the terms of a coalition deal brokered after February 8 elections marred by rigging claims.
Under that deal, Zardari’s Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) will take the presidency, while its historic rivals the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party secured the prime minister’s position for Shehbaz Sharif, who was officially sworn in on Monday.
Polo playboy
Zardari was born in 1955 into a land-owning family from the southern province of Sindh. “As a child, I was spoilt by my parents as an only son,” he said in a 2000 interview with the Guardian newspaper. “They indulged my every whim.” He expressed only limited political ambitions as a young man — losing a 1983 local government election. It was his 1987 arranged marriage with PPP leader Benazir Bhutto that earned him a spot in the political limelight. Their union — brokered by Bhutto’s mother — was considered an unlikely pairing for a leader-in-waiting from one of Pakistan’s major political dynasties.
Bhutto was an Oxford and Harvard graduate driven by the desire to oust then-president Mohammad Zia-ul-Haq, who forced her father from the prime minister’s office and had him executed. Zardari was a university dropout with a reputation for brawling, partying and romancing women at a private disco in his family home.
On the eve of their wedding, Bhutto’s team issued a formal statement denying he was “a playboy who plays polo by day and frequents discos at night”. Their nuptial celebrations were dubbed the “people’s wedding” — doubling as a political rally in the megacity of Karachi, where a crowd of 100,000 fervently chanted PPP slogans. Initially, Zardari pledged to keep out of politics.
Itanagar : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday dedicated to the nation the strategically-crucial Sela Tunnel, constructed at a cost of Rs 825 crore, in Arunachal Pradesh. It is the world’s longest bi-lane tunnel at 13,000 feet. The ambitious Sela Tunnel would boost India’s defences and lead to a faster response time for the armed forces to threats on the Line of Actual Control (LAC). After dedicating the tunnel to the nation, the PM urged the people to visit it and help boost trade and tourism in the region. “The Sela Tunnel should have been built earlier, but the previous Congress government did not take any such step,” said the PM, who also flagged off the first civilian convoy consisting of two buses from Tawang.
Apart from the Sela Tunnel, the PM virtually inaugurated from Itanagar 123 key developmental projects and laid the foundation of 95 new projects worth Rs 55,600 crore in six northeastern states — Manipur, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura and Arunachal Pradesh. An official said that on the road connecting Assam’s Tezpur to Tawang, the tunnel will enable “all-weather” connectivity to the region and it is strategically significant due to its proximity to the LAC.
The tunnel, stretching through the Sela-Charbela ridge and constructed with the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM), will be the world’s longest bi-lane tunnel at an altitude of 13,000 feet. The NATM is widely accepted and used in construction of tunnels worldwide especially for Himalayan geology. The Balipara-Charduar-Tawang Road on which this tunnel has been constructed is an important axis connecting Tawang region and provides connectivity to the hinterland, up to Tezpur.
The road had various bottlenecks like Nechiphu, Bomdila Town and Sela Pass, which have been addressed by the BRO by constructing Sela and Nechiphu tunnels and Bomdila Bypass. The foundation stone of the Sela Tunnel was laid by the PM on February 9, 2019 and its construction commenced within two months. The tunnel has been completed in just five years overcoming challenges of difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions. The Sela Tunnel System consists of two tunnels of lengths 1,003 metre and 1,595 metre respectively with an 8.6 km approach and link roads constructed at a cost of Rs 825 crore. The tunnel has been designed for a traffic density of 3,000 cars and 2,000 trucks per day with a maximum speed of 80 kmph.
The Sela Tunnel will not only facilitate smoother movement of troops and supplies and reinforce defence capabilities in the region, it will also herald a new era of economic prosperity for the Tawang region, fostering trade, tourism, employment, education and overall development. Earlier the route to Sela Pass had only single lane connectivity and treacherous bends due to which heavy vehicles, container trucks and vehicles with trailers could not get to Tawang, officials stated.
According to officials, due to adverse weather conditions, specifically in winters, evacuation of patients was affected along the existing Sela Pass. All this will now be a thing of the past with the opening of the tunnel. Earlier Prime Minister had elephant and jeep safari on Saturday morning in Kaziranga National Park in Assam. After spending morning hours in the park, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the 125-feet long statue of 16th century Ahom general Lachit Borphukan in Jorhat district.
The Congress party on Friday announced its first list of 39 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, a day after a meeting of its Central Election Committee (CEC), chaired by party president Mallikarjun Kharge, cleared names for several constituencies.
Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi will contest from Kerala’s Wayanad seat, which he currently represents. Congress general secretary K C Venugopal will contest from Alappuzha, while sitting Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor will fight to retain the constituency. The party has also decided to field former Chhattisgarh chief minister Bhupesh Baghel from Rajnandgaon seat and former minister Tamardwaj Sahu from Mahasamund, while Jyotsna Mahant will contest from Korba in the state.
The list also includes candidates from Karnataka, Lakshadweep, Mizoram, Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu. The party is yet to announce its candidates for the northern states, where it once had a strong presence. The party is expected to release more lists in the coming days, as it finalizes its seat-sharing arrangements with its allies in various states.
However, the party is also facing a crisis of confidence and cohesion, as some of its senior leaders have expressed their dissatisfaction with the party leadership and have quit the party or joined the rival BJP. The most prominent among them is former IPCC chief and TERI director R.K. Pachauri, who resigned from the party on Thursday night, citing personal reasons. Pachauri, who was a member of the Prime Minister’s Council on Climate Change, had faced allegations of sexual harassment in 2015, which he was later exonerated of by a court in 2022.
Pachauri’s resignation came as a shock to the party, which had given him a ticket to contest from the New Delhi constituency. The party has not yet named a replacement for him. Sources said that Pachauri was unhappy with the party’s handling of the climate change issue and its alliance with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Delhi.
Another senior leader who quit the party recently is former Union minister Jitin Prasada, who joined the BJP on Wednesday. Prasada, who was considered close to Rahul Gandhi, said that he was feeling suffocated in the Congress and that he wanted to work for the development of Uttar Pradesh under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Prasada’s exit has been seen as a blow to the party’s prospects in the state, where it is struggling to revive its fortunes.
The party has also witnessed defections from some of its MLAs and MPs in various states, such as Assam, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal, who have either joined the BJP or expressed their support for it. The party has accused the BJP of using money and muscle power to lure its leaders and weaken the opposition.
The Congress, which is the main challenger to the BJP at the national level, is hoping to improve its performance in the Lok Sabha polls, after it suffered a humiliating defeat in 2019, when it won only 52 seats out of 543. The party has been trying to project itself as a champion of secularism, democracy, social justice and federalism, and has been critical of the BJP’s policies and actions on various issues, such as the economy, the pandemic, the farmers’ protest, the CAA, the Kashmir issue and the Rafale deal.
The party has also been forging alliances with regional parties in different states, such as the DMK in Tamil Nadu, the NCP and the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra, the JMM in Jharkhand, the RJD in Bihar and the AAP in Delhi, to take on the BJP and its allies. The party has also been reaching out to the youth, the women, the minorities and the marginalized sections of the society, and has promised to provide employment, education, health care and social security to them.
The party has also been highlighting the achievements and contributions of its past leaders, such as Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi, and has been invoking their legacy and vision for the country. The party has also been projecting Rahul Gandhi as its prime ministerial candidate, and has been showcasing his leadership skills and charisma.
The party is confident that it will be able to put up a strong fight against the BJP and its allies, and will be able to form the next government at the centre, with the support of its allies and the people of the country. The party has also appealed to the voters to exercise their franchise wisely and to reject the divisive and authoritarian agenda of the BJP and its allies.
