VOLUME 02 | ISSUE 39

Behind the uniforms and formalities

PG 12

Bhanita Haloi

Go gaga over

YOGA

New chic on the block

Page 24

PG 19

VOLUME 02 | ISSUE 39 JUL 04 - JUL 10 , 2015

PRICE `10

I will turn up at odd places

Ward no 29

at odd times

Sankar path LOCALS EAGERLY AWAIT

VISHWAKARMA PUJA

PG 14

Socially Unchanged Picture

Exclusive

art

‘Emuthi Chaaul’

A one-to one conversation with the newly appointed Commissioner of Police Mukesh Agrawal, who insists that there is no priority list in police work and everything is equally important.

Contd. on PG 02

harassment

PG 04

Assamese film fraternity

unites together to improve the Industry

city

NRC updation becomes A

PG 16

PG 08

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G PLUS JUL 04 - JUL 10, 2015

Lead Story

I will turn up at odd places at odd times Koushik hazarika & RAHUL CHANDA

M

ukesh Agrawal recently joined as the new commissioner of the city police and was seen on the field managing the Ambubachi crowd. There was also an incident of a police official from the Paltan Bazar police station getting suspended when Agrawal paid a surprise visit at the station early morning, and caught the officer sleeping. Considered as very experienced, the city top cop exclusively talks to G Plus.

Can you tell us about your home town, education, IPS batch and the profiles you have had before becoming the commissioner of police.

I hail from Hojai which is in Nagaon district and my father retired as the principal of Hojai College. I have been a student of humanities. I had economics as honours subject and did my masters in business administration from Gauhati University. Being the son of a teacher, certain values were inculcated from the beginning and one of them was a career in civil services. My parents were the first source of information for me as in 1980s the source of information was limited so my father was the first source of information for me. I focused on preparing for civil services from Guwahati and that time the coaching facilities which are available at present in entire country was not there, barring some setup in the administrative staff college in Khanapara. I wrote the exam and I am a 1989 batch Assam-Meghalaya joint cadre. In the initial three years I was trained in Meghalaya and was posted in different places in Meghalaya and then came to the Assam wing of the cadre and since then I am in Assam. I have served in different capacities like additional SP, SP, DIG, IG and was promoted as ADG last year January 1st. I was SP in number of districts starting from Kokrajhar, Golaghat, Karbi Anglong, Cachar, Barpeta, Tinsukia and Kamrup before I was promoted as DIG and besides other assignments, I was DIG Western Central range Guwahati also. I continued other assignments like DIG (modernisation), DIG (border) before I was promoted as IGP and served as IGP (modernisation) and IGP (logistics) for sometimes. Before taking over as commissioner of police, Guwahati, I was serving as ADGP Prosecution.

City top cop MUKESH AGRAWAL

As a police commissioner what is the change that you want to drive in the policing of the city?

Policing is a continuous process and one cannot say that one can change something from one aspect to another aspect abruptly. For us, as a cop everything is a priority. It is the question of fine tuning and polishing the performance based parameters, improving the system, making it run more smoothly, find the bottlenecks and explore the avenues to how to overcome those bottlenecks and keep on improving. If you ask me what are the main issues, the issues are same all over not only in India but in other countries also. For the citizens, the issues are the same when it comes to policing and for us the issues are the same when it comes to the citizens.

The one word issue is crime. Crime has a huge domain. The smallest of crime also disturbs you, like if your mobile is stolen, it is a crime. A two thousand worth mobile may not be priority to a rich man but if a poor man loses the same mobile, is a high priority for him. We give equal focus on all the aspects and everything is important for us.

How would you improve the publicpolice relationship?

There is a very standard protocol being followed over the years by all the system of holding police-public meeting. As commissioner of police I cannot go to each and every area and sit down as I will have no time to do anything. But with the commissionerate system, the advantage is that it is a decentralised system where you have a very beautifully laid down structure starting from the police station, than the ACPs, the Additional DCPs, then the DCP who is equivalent to a SP of a district. Over them is the joint CP who is a direct assistant to the commissioner of police. Guwahati being a medium sized city, the structure is very well thought. So, I will like to attend few of the meeting but ultimately the OCs and the ACPs are the officers at the cutting edge level and above them is the DCP. Any meeting organised in a district, the DCP is there and I will obviously take a call of where to go. I am also thinking of a new system. I have started compiling a list of the prominent citizens, senior citizens, elderly people, retired officials, doctors, and people who are living a

Ambushed!

“It is an incident which happened in 1995. It was around 11.30 pm at night while I was returning from a CRPF camp after their Raising Day dinner party. The Raising Day is an important event for the paramilitary and the state forces. The DC, SP and the DIG are the key functionaries of the district so any force always likes to have the district people as their guests so we were there. Since it was a social gathering in the evening so I was travelling with my wife and we were newly married for four months at that time. Kokrajhar was quite disturbed at that time and being the district SP, you are always in the radar of the friends in the jungles. There was a proper ambush led for me on a wooden bridge. The ambush was with an explosive IED planted on one side of the bridge and as my vehicle got onto the bridge, the explosion took place. Simultaneously there was firing also. It was a typical ambush and my wife was inside the vehicle with me. Being a trained cop and with some luck and God’s grace, I was able to manage to escape the ambush and come out unscathed.”

very respectful life. These people will help in suggesting the things affecting the public and how can we go about it. Once we are through with the list compilation, my officers will start going to their houses instead of calling them. I don’t know what would be the reaction but we are still thinking and may be then the suggestions will come. This is one idea and request for ideas from everyone.

There is a lot of clamour about SMART policing, what will be your approach towards it?

It’s all interplay of different factors and we have to function in the given environment, parameters, resources that we have and our effort is

G PLUS JUL 04 - JUL 10, 2015

3

Lead Story always to be sensitive and professional. If one is sensitive and performs the duties professionally, he is smart. We are public servants and we have to be a good servant to the public and if we are able to perform then we are smart.

The city faces a major shortage of man power in the police department, is there any plan to tackle this issue?

For any system, the resources are limited, whether it be the natural resources or the man made ones, the resources are never unlimited. We have a system, we have the backup support and full support from all other agencies. Whatever support we look for, all attempts are made by the headquarter to make those resources available and it is again a continuous process. If I get 200 constables, in the next six months again 100 of the existing constables may retire so these things continues. The system has become transparent over the years. The recruitment process itself has become very transparent.

How much do you think the Guwahatians see their new commissioner on the road?

It is for the citizens to decide. As a top cop or the top man of the Guwahati city police, if I am confined to the field all the time than who will take care of the administration. And if I

am always stuck up at the desk, then who will take care of the field activity.

I have to maintain a very fine balance between the both but you can expect me to be visible at the wrong time at all the wrong places. I can appear anywhere and I am known for appearing at odd times at odd places. It will not be a regular feature or else the element of surprise will not be there. I also have to trust my officers and their functioning and the trust deficit has to be reduced. One has to build the trust between the hierarchy.

Is there any political pressure and if you ever felt any?

If you personally ask me there is absolutely no political pressure in Assam. You might be thinking in some other p,arts of the country, but not in Assam.

As a commissioner how long do you think you will require so that Guwahati can be known as a peaceful city?

It is not like building a thermal power station or like coming up with a big factory. This is a service industry and we are into the business of delivering service and in a service you cannot assign a definite timeline because all other factors and variables are constantly changing. We keep on trying to cope and adjust constantly, modify our approach. Crimes will take place but the question is that

“If you personally ask me there is absolutely no political pressure in Assam. You might be thinking in some other p,arts of the country, but not in Assam.” what types of crimes are taking place more, what is the time the police is taking to intervene, what is the success rate, what is the quality of investigation, what is the rate of conviction, what is the rate of disposal and many more. When a city grows, new issues come up. We never heard of cyber crimes before but it is there now.

There are always negative reports about call of action time by the police, so what are the logistical problems the police face?

I will not be able to give generalised statement unless specific instances are brought to the notice. Then one can do the analysis about the issues related to the late arrival. Since the resources are proportionately distrib-

uted amongst different police stations, so the response time will depend on the availability of the resources. For example, if you have four teams in a particular police station and if all the four teams are attending four different crimes, and if fifth crime is reported, you have to immediately divert one of the four teams to the new location.

The distance may be less but due to some circumstances, if there is traffic or a procession passing by, it might take time. Police is a 24/7 service and we have a dial 100 system where the calls are logged and we are trying to reduce the response time as much as it is possible.

Do you have any message for Guwahatians?

We require their blessings and cooperation. We will try to live up to

their expectation but at the same time I will be grateful for their feedback.

Please tell us about your hobbies and your family.

I love to relax whenever I get time and my way of relaxation is not watching TV. I catch up with my friends with whom I talk. As a cop, we don’t find that much time. I also love reading across the sections. I don’t get time so I take very long to finish a book.

My wife is an engineer by profession and at present she is working as an Assistant Professor at the Royal Group of Institutions. I have two daughters.

The elder one has just passed class 12 and preparing for IIT and my younger daughter is in class 8. My parents stay here in Guwahati and are living a retired life. rahul.chanda@g-plus.in

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G PLUS JUL 04 - JUL 10, 2015

In The News

NRC updation becomes A harassment

Juthika Baruah

T

he process of updating the National Register of Citizens (NRC) meant to identify the illegal infiltrators, have succeeded in creating panic among the public as many people have not found their legacy data and fear losing their citizenship.

Questions that now arise in the minds of the people is whether the entire process will solve the problem of illegal infiltrators or are the indigenous people of the state being harassed in the name of updating the NRC. “It has become a harassment for the general public to complete the NRC process. Taking out the legacy data is not a difficult task but filling up the form is not very easy, even for the educated people. How will semiliterate and the illiterate people fill up the form is a big question,” said Bina Das, a resident of Birubari while speaking to G Plus.

People are facing problems trying to visit the place of their ancestors for the legacy data or to collect the documents for filling up the NRC forms. People shift from one place to another for the purpose of job, studies etc, but now they are facing difficulty trying to find the linkage with their forefathers, especially those who may not have any link with family members back home or some don’t even know the name of their forefathers to find out the legacy data.

Minati Kalita, a resident of Chandmari said, “The NRC process is a total harassment for the people and it’s very difficult to fill up the form.

I don’t know how much will it be

helpful and it is doubtful whether the Assam will be free of Bangladeshis.

Instead of updating the NRC for the indigenous people, there should have been an alternative way to identify the Bangladeshis without harassing the genuine people of the state.”

Raju Das, a tailor by profession said, “I have concluded the work of filling up the NRC form but I have faced so many difficulties. I am not educated and therefore, I have to seek help from an educated person to fill up the form and they charge money for filling up the form. At first they charged Rs. 500 but when I objected, they took Rs. 300. I can’t spend money on such work but I had to because I have to fill up the form anyhow to ensure my citizenship.”

Speaking to G Plus, Subhana Saadulla, Operating Manager of Zoo Road NRC Seva Kendra said, “Legacy data is not the main issue which people are panicking about. To update the NRC, it is not necessary to have the legacy data. Legacy data is just to verify the relationship with the family and those who do not have legacy data can submit their admit card of HSLC examination or any other relevant documents and those who do not have admit cards either, they can give a written statement where they had cast their votes in 1971 and accordingly it will be submitted to the Government and they will decide what steps should be taken for such persons.” Subhana said that awareness is less for which people are panicking about the NRC update but it is a simple process.

Report as on 2nd July at Zoo Road NSK

“It has become a harassment for the general public to complete the NRC process.

Taking out the legacy data is not a difficult task but filling up the form is not very easy, even for the educated people. How will semiliterate and the illiterate people fill up the form is a big question,” Bina Das, a resident of Birubari

Total Footfall till 12 noon

262

Legacy Search

86

During the course of researching for this article, G Plus met a person who said that his name is entered wrong in the legacy data.

Here is what to do when anyone’s name is found to be wrong.

If anyone’s name is found wrong in the legacy data They should write the name mentioned in the legacy data in the application form and within brackets should write the original name.

If anyone failed to submit the application form on due date If a person fails to submit the application form on the due date, then they can submit the application on the date given by the government after the applications are received on priority dates which may start from

Total Application Form Submission

176

Total Application Form Submission till date

1409

3rd week of July.

On the other hand, the political and non-political organisations are also opposing the process of updating the NRC saying that the government is trying to give shelter to the Bangladeshis. The Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) opposed the process of updating the NRC and demanded that all the tea tribes and other indigenous ethnic tribes should be included in the NRC, discarding the conspiracy of excluding the names of indigenous people of the state. “The Chief Minister of Assam, Tarun Gogoi is involved in the conspiracy to exclude the names of indigenous people in the NRC and included the names of Bangladeshis for vote bank purpose. The Tarun Gogoi Government is trying to sabotage the process of updating the NRC and deprive the indigenous people from getting their right,” said General Secretary of AGP, Durga Das Boro. juthika.baruah@g-plus.in

G PLUS JUL 04 - JUL 10, 2015

The Meth Wave SPOs ‘beg’ for job G PLUS FEATURE

T

he popular party drug ‘Crystal Meth’ continues to sneak into Assam, mostly in Guwahati, in spite of the narcotic control agencies managing to seize some of their consignments.

State’s excise department sources said that the ‘meth wave’ is here.

With clandestine meth factories located across the Indo-Myanmar border, this highly demanded party drug is making its way through Mizoram into Assam’s Barak valley and then reaching its market destination here in the city.

In the last one month alone, over 3. 93 lakh tablets containing methamphetamine, known as meth or crystal meth, were seized from various areas in Assam and Mizoram.

Several persons, including Myanmarese nationals were also arrested in these operations. An arrestee revealed that he bought around 58,000 tablets from an agent in Assam’s Silchar town.

“The seizures were worth Rs 6 crore in total. Anyone can guess the volume of demand and supply of this drug with the huge money involved in such a short time,” excise sources said.

Sources added that tablets containing ephedrine and pseudoephedrine are illegally transported from

places like Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh to Manipur through Assam and then smuggled to Myanmar, where it also goes to the infamous Golden triangle.

Subsequently, the illegal drug factories in Myanmar, using ephedrine and pseudoephedrine prepare the party drugs and then again push them back to India for intake.

“Crystal meth is short for crystal methamphetamine. It is a white crystalline drug that people take by snorting, smoking or injecting it. Some even take it orally, but all develop a strong desire to continue using it because the drug creates a sense of happiness and a rush of hyper activeness and energy,” a test revealed.

Usually, its effect last from six to eight hours, but can last up to twenty-four hours. The crystal meth’s street names are- crystal, glass, ice and crypto. They are sold in crushed or pill forms.

The city police, however, attributed the rapid growth of the party drugs to changing lifestyle of youngsters and the expansion of nightlife.

The police commissionerate here athough had issued a lookout notice for at least seven most wanted drug peddlers last year, they managed to sneak through police cuffs.

G PLUS FEATURE

S

ome 30 Special Police Officers (SPO) personnel demonstrated a ‘begging’ protest in front of various government establishments in Guwahati city recently to press for their demands of a permanent job. They alleged that the state government has pushed them to live like beggars by snatching their jobs.

The SPOs are demanding the Assam government to create the Assam Industrial Security Forces (AISF) and absorb them. Earlier the state government had announced the creation of AISF with

these personnel, but later it set several conditions before them, leading to protests.

On Wednesday morning, around 400 SPOs gathered at the Guwahati Railway Station to sit for the fast, but were barred from doing so by the district administration. Later several SPOs demonstrated the ‘Begging protest’ in front of Kamrup (metro) district administration office, Rajiv Bhawan and the busy Ganeshguri area.

Parag Buragohain, president of All Assam Special Police Welfare Association, said, “When some of our colleagues posed as beggars and

5

In The News

protested, the city police detained them too.”

Last month SPO protests in Dima Hasao district led to a huge clash between SPOs and state police. Subsequently, the state government disarmed all the SPOs fearing an armed revolt.

The Assam government raised the SPOs in 2008 to guard government officials and vital installations after Karbi militants triggered large-scale violence in the area. Many surrendered ultras were also inducted in the squad under rehabilitation schemes.

Photography exhibition by Candid Clicks

G PLUS FEATURE

C

andid Clicks, a Facebook group, comprising of amateur and professional photographers from various parts of Assam, will organize an exhibition of photographs at the State Art Gallery from July 6th – 10th, 2015. The exhibition will be inaugurated at 4 pm on 6th July, 2015 by senior photo artist Tarak Chandra Sarma.

The Facebook group, Candid Clicks was founded in the year 2014

by Debasis Baruah, a Guwahati based senior photo artist, with the sole intention of creating a platform for passionate amateur as well as professional photographers to display their creations to a larger audience around the world.

Baruah, the curator of the first ever photography exhibition by a Facebook group in Assam, said, “When I first started off with this Facebook page, I barely knew that it

will become so popular within such a short frame of time. Today, the group has over 3,300 members, who have bonded together like a virtual family through a single link – their love for photography.”

22 group members have submitted their photographs for this exhibition, and a total of 66 photographs on various subjects will be on display during this exhibition.

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G PLUS JUL 04 - JUL 10, 2015

In The News

APSC

RIDDLED WITH ANAMOLIES Kalyan Deb

T

he Assam Public Service Commission (APSC) has been in the news over the past few days due to the alleged irregularities in the selection process for the Combined Competitive Examination, 2013.

Amid the charges of selling plum jobs and preferential treatment, Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS) staged a series of protests in the city streets demanding a CBI probe into the alleged anomalies and removal of APSC chairman Rakesh Kumar Paul.

It is the selection of some candidates belonging to powerful families that has put Paul and APSC in the dock.

The protesting organisations claim that the academic achievements of some candidates selected for the jobs are pretty listless and charged that the jobs were sold.

Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, the RTI activist claimed that the five candidates, who are shown to have obtained good marks, resorted to a questionable deal with the top officials of the commission to ensure their selection. Gogoi also produced the photocopies of some answer scripts procured through RTI and further alleged that many deserving candidates were not given due marks only to ensure the selection of those who bribed a section of top officials.

In an earlier meet, showing evidences received through RTI, the KMSS leader said, “The answer keys of different papers in the 2013 preliminary examinations conducted by the APSC had numerous errors and that made many meritorious students

not being able to qualify. There were certain facts which have revealed corruption. In the general studies paper, the APSC’s answer key had 11 errors. Since each correct answer carries 2 marks, if a candidate answers all the 100 questions correct, he cannot secure more than 178. This is because for the 11 wrong answers in the key, 22 marks are to be deducted.

Strangely enough, in general studies one Bhaskar Ojha secured 190 and Aisharya Jibon Baruah, son of DIG Apurba Jibon Baruah, secured 186 out of 200. This is possible only if there are anomalies. The errors in the APSC answer keys were admitted by the APSC before the court when a candidate dragged it to the court.”

Akhil Gogoi said that the political science paper has five such errors in answer keys, Sociology had seven, history had six and Geography had three and similar errors were also seen in the preliminary examinations of 2014.

Amid his unrelenting crusade against Assam Public Service Commission, Akhil Gogoi demanded forensic test of the answer sheets of five candidates which would reveal the real picture of the rampant corruption in the ACS examination and demanded of the APSC to cancel these two examinations. He also demanded of the government to remove APSC chairman Rakesh Paul and Chief Controller of Examination Nanda Babu Sinha.

“Those who bribed the officials were given the question papers in the preliminary round beforehand

“Those who bribed the officials were given the question papers in the preliminary round beforehand for `10 lakh and some others were given their answer sheets back after the examination for correction,” Akhil Gogoi, KMSS chief

for Rs 10 lakh and some others were given their answer sheets back after the examination for correction,” said Gogoi.

The KMSS recently also alleged that Paul was rewarded with the chairmanship of the APSC for ensuring thousands of votes for Gogoi’s son Gaurav in the last Lok Sabha elections in Kaliabor. Paul, who hails from the Kaliabor town, is said to have a significant influence over voters in the constituency.

Whereas, the Chief Minister initially tried to play down the allegations but later constituted a one-man panel of Additional Chief Secretary to probe into the alleged five specific charges of anomalies and irregularities in recently declared results of civil services examinations.

“There are five cases regarding anomalies in the civil services examinations conducted by the Assam

Public Service Commission (APSC) have been referred to the one-man inquiry commission, headed by Additional Chief Secretary Subash Chandra Das,” a release said.

Earlier, On June 16, peasant leader Akhil Gogoi and five others were arrested and sent to 14 days’ judicial custody for allegedly instigating his supporters to prevent APSC staff from entering the office. Gogoi who was released on June 26, was on a three-day sit-in strike since June 15 in front of the APSC head office demanding a probe into the alleged corruption in the recently declared results of state civil services exams and removal of APSC’s present Chairman Rakesh Kumar Paul.

Following which, KMSS members and supporters had been protested across the state. While some members tried to block trains by protesting on tracks at a few places in Upper Assam,

sympathisers at many places burnt tyres on roads to block the traffic, but were swiftly cleared by security forces and authorities.

On the other hand joining the battle, Assam Public Works (APW), in a memorandum to the Governor demanded Acharya’s intervention to stem the rot in the APSC and take action against those involved in the corrupt practices. The group also cited the case of Nandini Kakati, the niece of Dolly Gogoi, wife of Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, who was selected to the Assam Police Service, had scored less than 50 per cent marks in her Class X, Class XII and BA exams. Among other beneficiaries, the group alleged there were the sons of a minister, two former ministers and a DIG of police.

The APW also mentioned how the name of Swarup Kumar Bhattacharya, who has three criminal cases pending against him, was on top of the list of selected candidates for the Assam Police Service. It also pointed out that Deepti Morang, whose name appeared on top of the list of selected candidates for the Assam Civil Service in the Scheduled Tribe Plains category, is a cousin of APSC member Basanta Kumar Doley.

As stated by APW, Minerva Devi Arambam, who appeared for the CCE Mains 2014, is the daughter of APSC Principal Controller of Examinations Nanda Babu Singh and going by convention and rules, Singh should have recused himself from conducting the exam as his own daughter was appearing for it. kalyan.deb@g-plus.in

G PLUS JUL 04 - JUL 10, 2015

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In The News

Demand for Tiwa election Aditya Gogoi

A

ltogether 26 different tribal and non - tribal organizations have sought the intervention of the Assam Governor in conducting elections in six constituencies under Tiwa Autonomous Council (TAC).

The representatives of these organizations on Monday staged protest in front of Raj Bhawan in the city.

“The development of the area has been delayed due to this. We have been demanding that election should be conducted at the earliest but no one has been paying any heed to it,” said Karbi Students’ Union (KSU) president Ratneswar Ronghang and

the chief convener of the 26 bodies.

The state government had conducted the election in 30 out of 36 constituencies in 2010. But the state government declined to conduct the election in six constituencies – Dimoria, Digaru, Khetri, Sonapur, Ampri and Phong-Ari in Dimoria region of Kamrup (metro) district on the pretext of law and order situation.

“Time and again we have been requesting but somehow the election has not been conducted even after five years. There is nothing like any problematic law and order situation for which the election cannot be conducted,” Ronghang added.

Among others, All Bodo Students’ Union, All Tea Tribe Students’ Association, All Tiwa Students' Union, All Tiwa Women Association, All Assam Gorkha Students’ Union and Rabha Jatia Parishad participated in the protest on Monday.

They have also threatened that their agitation will continue if the state government do not pay attention to their demand.

“We are peace loving citizen of a democratic country. If the government do not address our demand, we will be forced to carry out our agitations. We are also staging a nude protest in the coming days,” said Ronghang.

Railway helpline number launched n order to assist distressed pas-

I

sengers amidst the rising crime scenerio in the state, the Assam Police on June 27th launched a helpline number at the Guwahati Railway Station in the city. Through the helpline number 1521, a passenger in distress will instantly be responded to by an escort team and will facilitate the Railway passengers and other people to approach the Railway Police for issues related to safety, security and crime in the railways.

The helpline number was formally launched by chief minister Tarun Gogoi in the presence of state DGP Khagen Sarma and other railway and police officials.

“We have been concerned about the safety of railway passengers for a long time. I hope this

initiative will help people solve their problems and travel in trains comfortably,” Gogoi said.

“Distress can mean a lot of things —burglary, molestation or medical emergency. Normally, a lot of time is wasted in lodging a complaint or reaching a particular station. With this new system, complainants can lodge their FIRs with the escort team on the spot,” DGP Khagen Sarma.

The state police have also adopted a number of measures to curb human trafficking. ADGP Bhaskar Jyoti Mahanta mentioned that several awareness campaigns are being conducted in different areas along with providing training to personnel in setting up a national network to help apprehend culprits who trade in women and children.

Cop suspended for failing to stop Bandh vandalism

T

o set an example of action against negligence of duty by police officials, the Guwahati police commissionerate suspended the office in charge (OC) of Sonapur police station, Sanjib Kumar Das. Das had failed to stop several acts of vandalism by protesters during the 24 hour long central Assam bandh called by various Tiwa groups.

On Wednesday, protesters set ablaze a truck and damaged several private vehicles in broad day light under the

police official’s jurisdiction. At least 27 Tiwa public bodies have called for the strike pressing for holding the autonomous council election in six constituencies of Tiwa Autonomous Council (TAC) under Dimoria block in Kamrup (metro) district.

“He has been placed under suspension immediately for dereliction in his duty,” an order by the commissionerate said.

Meanwhile, Morigaon police arrested at least three persons on charg-

es of vandalism during the bandh.

Some others were also been identified and more arrests are expected.

The TAC formed in 1995, has 36 constituencies spread over Morigaon, parts of Nagaon, Kamrup (metro) and Karbi Anglong districts of Assam. Though state government held election to 30 constituencies of the council in 2010, six constituencies in the Kamrup (metro) district were left out of the process because of the law and order situation.

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G PLUS JUL 04 - JUL 10, 2015

City

Assamese film fraternity

unites together to improve the Industry

Juthika Baruah

T

he Assamese film industry still lags behind even after 80 years of inception of the Assamese cinema. The quality of film production still needs improvement and the frequent isfights amongst the industry people is not helping the scene either.

But now, as part of a general initiative to better its sagging fortunes, the Assamese film fraternity is uniting together to come up with new ideas, new innovation and to discuss the problems of the industry and bring it back into the limelight so that the Assamese community accepts the Assamese films again.

“Earlier there were many tussle between the older and the new generation but today the young generation has come up and interact with the old which is a good sign as they can learn a lot from the people who have been in the industry since the very beginning. We have to move forward unitedly in order to be successful and try to handle the problems with the ideas from the people. The first step of success is unity and improvement,” said noted Director Jahnu Baruah while speaking to G Plus.

Baruah said, “We should start from the community itself for a better future and should not hesitate or be afraid to preserve the culture of the state or society. We have to keep alive the art and culture with full honour and as our passion is not understood by the Government, by the people or the community, it is our responsibility to make the people aware about the

“We should start from the community itself for a better future and should not hesitate or afraid to keep the culture of the state or society. We have to keep alive the art and culture with full honour and as our passion is not understood by the Government, by the people or the community, it is our responsibility to make the people aware about the passion, about art and culture of the society.”

Jahnu Baruah passion, art and culture of the society.”

He said that it is the responsibility of the people related with art and culture to make the public realize the power of the same as only then can the future can be developed.

Actress Jerifa Waheed, while speaking about the deteriorating condition of the film industry, said that although the Assamese cinema was started way back in 1935, the audience have not taken it in the way that they should have.

“There are many reasons for which Assamese films are still lagging behind. There are no sufficient cinema halls and the existing cinema halls do

not give shows for the Assamese films.

The distributors should give importance to the Assamese films because if the producers do not profit from their films, how will they invest money for the next production is a big question.

The hall owners, by stressing on the business, do not emphasize on Assamese films. The prime time is the main concern and people don’t come to watch movies at 11 AM. After one week when the films are removed from the hall, rumour is spread that the film was removed from the hall as it is not good,” said Jerifa.

She also said that earlier there were many halls but now many of them have closed down, adding that the Government should make a proper film policy to improve the condition of the Assamese films.

Singer Zubeen Garg said they

are trying to improve the scenario of Assamese film industry through discussions and the Government should help to solve the problem. In Kolkata and South India, the state governments help them a lot, so that the film industry could be improved.

The Assam Government should also join hands with the industry people so that the people of Assam can also make a habit of watching Assamese films when quality films are presented in front of them.

Actor Ravi Sarma said that for the development of the industry, quality should be improved. “One should be able to make out from the promo itself how the film will be and if the promo can attract the people, they will definitely come to watch Assamese movies. The distributors should also provide proper time slots for the

films. The Assamese films are given only one show, that too at 11AM. People do not go for 1st day 1st show, especially in the morning hours as they have schools, colleges or offices and its not possible to go and watch a movie at that time,” said Sarma while speaking to G Plus.

He said that the halls should be improved and its time that good script is necessary, not money. “To make a good film, we don’t need much money but the subject matter should be good. The films should be bilingual and unfortunately professionalism is still absent in the industry. The actors should not be brought with reference, they should come for acting and if they don’t know acting then its useless. The lobbying should be stopped if one needs to improve the quality of the films,” said Sarma.

Talking about the newcomers, Ravi Sarma said that there is no time to train or teach anybody once they step into the industry. The professional attitude is necessary and the substitute system should not be there.

“Sometimes the actors remain busy in theatre or other work and youngsters are brought in as substitutes which ruins the film. Once they enter the industry, their talent and capacity should be looked after. And the art can’t be taught, it should be inborn and one should have the interest and the talent to enter into the character and deliver accordingly,” said Sarma. juthika.baruah@g-plus.in

G PLUS JUL 04 - JUL 10, 2015

Rise of Women Entrepreneurs Juthika Baruah

T

he traditional role of women in the society was supposed to be maintaining the families and houses but now-a-days, women not only remain within the four walls and come out with their innovative ideas. Women entrepreneurs are not only emerging, but their numbers are gradually rising in the city.

Most of the women come out to look for an opportunity so that they could start of their own business and be independent. “The women entrepreneurs are rising in the city and as the women are being trained in different skills by the District Industry and Commerce Centre they get the opportunity to expose their talents and also get a platform to start something of their own,” said Himanga Dip Das, General Manager of District Industry and Commerce Centre, Kamrup (M) while speaking to G Plus.

Das said that girls are being trained in different subjects like fashion designing, tattoo making, embroidery, cutting etc. through National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC), Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE) and also by one or two private organisations. He said, “The headquarters give some subjects of training and accordingly we select the candidates who apply for the training but the training are being provided by different organisations like NSIC, IIE, MSME etc. After the training is over, some women want sewing machines

9

City

in the city

and some want loan and we provide them accordingly. In 2013-14, 30 women were trained and in 2014-15, 202 were trained and there are three schemes through which they are being accommodated.”

Das informed that the schemes through which the trained women are being accommodated are machinery and equipments through MMK and loans are also being provided through Angel Fund and Prime Minister Employment Generation Program (PMEGP). In the Angel Fund, loan is being provided up to Rs 5 lakhs and in PMEGP, the loan is being provided up to Rs. 25 lakhs. “There is another scheme especially for women, the State Capital Investment Subsidy (SCIS) on which 50 per cent subsidy is being given to the women. The main objective of the PMEGP scheme is to generate employment opportunities in rural as well as in urban areas through setting up of a new self-employment ventures or projects or micro enterprise, to bring together widely dispersed traditional artisans, rural and urban unemployed youth and give them self-employment opportunities to the extent possible at their place,” said Das. Das also informed that there is a credit link margin money scheme in which 50 per cent grants are being provided to the people and in 2014, 15 units have been provided the grant including both men and women. In 2015-16, 12 cases are being received

of which 50 per cent are women who have been assisted with the grants.

In 2012-13, 22 numbers of industrial sewing machines have been provided to the women by DICC and in 201314, six numbers of sewing machines have been provided and additional 60 machines have been targeted.

Das further informed that there is also a Multi Disciplinary Skill Development (MDSD) in which there are 48 trades like Barefoot Optician, Excavator/Dumper operator, Decorative textile designer, oil rig driller, tally, retail: sales and marketing, medical representative, bedside attendant/child and old age care giver, hospitality: food and beverages, weaving/reeling and spinning, beauty care, spa and well-

ness therapist, BPO, basic accounting, sesmic surveyor, construction site safety operator etc.

The NSIC is providing training on bakery and noodle making for members of Scheduled Caste and 30 girls have been sent for training in National Institute of Fashion Designing (NIFT), Kolkata. The department of Industry and Commerce, Udyog Bhawan will also take a team to Gujarat for training through NSIC who were being trained for last three years and from that group some selected women will also be taken Abroad for training in different categories.

Moreover, the banks also provide loans to the women entrepreneurs so that they could start their own busi-

ness. The economic empowerment of women is a vital element of strong economic growth and Assam accounts for 18 per cent women entrepreneurs as against 7.7 per cent in the country.

Women entrepreneurs in Assam are mainly engaged in weaving, knitting, embroidery, beauty parlour, making of household items like jam, jelly, pickles etc.

The banks also play an important role by lending them money and the Small and Medium Enterprise department of State Bank of India also provides them loan to start their business.

Speaking to G Plus, Atul Borthakur, AGM (SME), State Bank of India said, “Many women are provided the loans based on their project and women entrepreneurs are rising in the city but if they found the business not reliable they shift their ideas to another field.

When they found that the business is not running successfully they change their mind about what they want to find their source of livelihood. Loans are being provided to the women entrepreneurs and when they failed to repay the loan, the bank runs in a loss.

Moreover, 27 women entrepreneurs were provided with loan by different banks in Kamrup (M) for different projects like beauty parlour, weaving, bakery, fashion designing, DTP & Internet, tailoring, ladies garments, packaging, jewellery making etc. juthika.baruah@g-plus.in

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City

G PLUS JUL 04 - JUL 10, 2015

“City grahaks don’t fight for their rights”

Rahul chanda

R

ecently a consumer was seen arguing with a shopkeeper at Paltan Bazar over the price of a bottle of cold drink. The consumer said that he bought a bottle of cold drink which, according to the price tag, was Rs 10 per bottle, but the shopkeeper was charging Rs 12 for the same bottle as he had kept the bottle in a fridge to cool it which consumes electricity and he has to pay the bill.

The customer had to pay Rs 12 as he had already started drinking from the bottle but interestingly, he did not ask for a receipt from the shopkeeper. Inspite of various laws enacted to take care of consumers grievances, the consumers in Guwahati still do not fight for their rights in most cases and get over charged by the shopkeepers.

G Plus visited the District Consumer Forum, Guwahati in order to get a better insight into the consumer rights scenerio in the city.

Lack of awareness The District Consumer Forum officials narrated a story where recently a hotel at Paltan Bazar charged a customer Rs 35 for a bottle of water worth only Rs 10 when he had lunch there. The customer took the receipt and filed a complaint at the consumer forum. After the trial, the hotel was asked to pay Rs 2500 to the customer for charging extra and other inconveniences faced. Similarly the officials at the forum said that if the consumers approach the forum and if they are de-

prived of any right they can easily file a complaint against the culprit under consumer protection act. Consumer Protection Act, 1986 is an Act of the Parliament of India enacted in 1986 to protect interests of consumers in India. It makes provision for the establishment of consumer councils and other authorities for the settlement of consumers’ disputes and for matters connected therewith.

One of the officials of the forum, Achyut Chandra Deka said that consumers in Guwahati do not always complain because of lack of awareness or the general conception that it is a lengthy process to file a complaint against someone who is depriving the consumers of their right. Deka said that in in 2013, 122 complaints were registered, in 2014, 124 complaints were registered and in 2015 till June, 42 cases were registered. Deka said that the disposal of cases also takes a lot of time and in 2015 out of 42 registered complaints, not even a single complaint is disposed. When asked the reason he explained, that there are very less manpower in the forum. He said that there are approximately only eight workers including the president of the forum who is a retired judge. Deka, being a head assistant has to look after all the paper works in the forum and even look after the administration job. Still, Deka said, “We are still committed towards redressing consumers’ grievances with all the obstacles and every complaint is addressed with utmost sincerity,

but what I have personally noticed is that consumers in Guwahati do not complain as I feel they think that it is a big hassle, which is not.” He then explained the process by which consumers can approach the forum.

Fees structure for the complaint petition `1 to `1 lakh IPO worth Rs 100

`1 lakh to `5 lakh IPO worth Rs 200

`5 lakh to `10 lakh IPO worth Rs 400

`10 lakh to `20 lakh IPO worth Rs 500

Complaints registered in 2013 – 122 2014 – 124 2015 till June – 42

The process Achyut Chandra Deka said that a consumer can file a complaint within 2 years of the time of the cause of action provided the customer has a purchase receipt of the product or services purchased. Without the receipt, no complaint can be filed. After the cause of action, if a customer has any grievance, he/she can file a complaint petition either directly going to the consumer forum or through a lawyer. The lawyers charge their service charge so consumers can directly approach the forum.

To file a complaint petition there are some fees which has to be paid according to the Supreme Court guidelines.

After the complaint is registered the notice is send to the opposite parties. A date is fixed and both the parties appear before the president of the forum who is a retired district and ses-

sions judge. After the hearing, justice is delivered accordingly and if required the compensation is decided for the consumer which the opposite party has to pay within a set time frame. If the opposite party fails to obey the orders then showcause notice is issued and sometimes even a warrant.

There are also punishments depending on the issue and the minimum is 3 months.

The main problem in Guwahati according to Deka is that maximum consumers do not take receipt of their purchase which is a cause that grievances cannot be addressed. If a

shopkeeper do not provide receipt the public can complaint to the police and accordingly police has the right to take action. No complaint petition can be filed without the purchase receipt.

Deka said, “I request the customers to always take receipt and if they are overcharged to please file complaints at the consumer forum which will help them from getting deprived of their rights.”

With all these available options city, people still do not file enough complaints in the forum and do not fight for their rights. rahul.chanda@g-plus.in

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G PLUS JUL 04 - JUL 10, 2015

City

SUPER 30 PROVIDING HOPE FOR MANY

ADITYA GOGOI

I have dreams but don’t know where I will end up. I’m all thankful to my uncle for bearing all the expenses for my studies but now it is difficult for him to carry on too

N

andeswar Kramsa is one of the 20 students who have qualified in IIT advance from Assam following their training in Super 30 sponsored by OIL. Kramsa, who hails from a remote place in Sonitupr district, has grown up witnessing poverty and violence after losing his mother at an early age. Now, he wonders for admission in IIT due to a financial crunch.

“I have dreams but don’t know

where I will end up. I’m all thankful to my uncle for bearing all the expenses for my studies but now it is difficult for him to carry on too,” Kramsa who bagged the rank in 682 in ST category, told G Plus.

Though Kramsa’s father is alive, he is unable to work to run the family due to his mental disorder. “In the midst of all doom, the Super 30 helped me to learn to dream again but now I’m really worried for my future,” said Kramsa who wants to study chemical engineering. He studied in Tinixuti

High School in Sonitpur district at an area which witnessed mass violence last December when militants killed local Adivasi people.

Like Kramsa, there are many other poor students with potential have been able to crack the entrance known to be the toughest in the country.

Ganesh Chandra Boro, another student from Udalguri district has been able to clear the entrance bagging the 282nd rank. “My family is poor. My father is a petty farmer who cannot afford a good quality coaching

for me to crack this kind of qualification exam. But Super 30 has made it possible for me,” said Boro.

Since 2010, altogether 220 students out of the 240 students have been able to pass the IIT entrance and other engineering institutes of Super 30 from three centres in Assam.

After an encouraging response, they are also planning to set up a branch in Itanagar in Arunachal Pradesh. The students are selected from remotest parts of the state through a written test and a personal

interview.

In the year 2014, altogether 16 students from Super 30 cracked the IIT advance.

Former Bihar director general of police Abhayanand who conceptualised the Super 30 to provide free coaching to the economically backward children for IIT and other competitive exams, said that these students have always felt neglected and left out. “But now they have proved their worth. This is also national integrity,” he said.

Basistha fire destroys property worth `10 lakh Rahul Chanda

A

major fire incident at Basistha on Thursday evening scared the locals even as it gutted around 22 houses and destroyed property worth Rs 10 lakhs approximately. Three people were reported to be injured in the incident, the exact reason for which is still being investigated.

The reason An eyewitness, Rahul Biswas said, “We were near the Basistha market when we heard the noise of some explosion at around 7.20 pm near the police station. We rushed to the site and saw that some houses were gutted by a huge blaze caused by the explosion.” Biswas said that the explosion took place in a house

owned by one Yuvraj Sharma at Basishtha Nepali Basti near the Basistha Police Station. The local people immediately ran to the rescue but according to Biswas, who also stays in Basistha, the fire was uncontrollable. He said that there were around 13 houses given on rent by Sharma and in one of the houses, someone was cooking. There was a leakage in the cylinder that was being used for cooking which then caught fire and exploded. As the fire spread, the other cylinders in the adjacent houses also exploded and altogether, around 6 cylinders exploded which further made the situation uncontrollable. All the houses built on Yuvraj Sharma’s property were burnt to ashes and a few adjacent houses in the nearby

area also caught fire. Approximately 23 houses were gutted and property worth approximately Rs 10 lakhs was destroyed by the blaze.

The delay Another eyewitness said that the fire brigade was informed soon after the first explosion, but the fire

fighting vehicles reached the site only after 30 minutes. Because of the delay, the situation turned critical as the vehicles came from Super Market area. The eyewitness also said that although the authorities always claim that the fire fighting vehicles find it difficult to reach the spot on time because of narrow roads, but in Basishtha, the roads are broad enough because of which four fire fighting vehicles were able to reach the spot but after 30 minutes. The local police said that around three people were injured and the exact cause of the fire is being investigated although, according to the people staying in Yuvraj Sharma’s house, the leakage of cylinder was the main cause of the fire. rahul.chanda@g-plus.in

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G PLUS JUL 04 - JUL 10, 2015

City

Behind the uniforms and formalities

A peek into the lives of the youth employed in corporate food chains in the city MAYURI GOSWAMI

Q

uick service restaurants are a fast-growing industry in the country. Companies like Dominos, McDonald’s and Pizza Hut were introduced in India in 1996. Other chains like Kentucky Fried Chicken and Café Coffee Day made their presence known soon after and have more than 100 outlets in the country. Outlets of most of the aforementioned brands can be seen in Guwahati. These multinational brands also have their Indian counterparts. Restaurants like Jiffy’s, LC, Dosa Plaza etc. are gaining fast popularity but are no competition to international brands because of their lack of nationwide presence. Growth of these brands also open up job opportunities, especially for the youth.

Employment trends, however, differ in different parts of the country.

In our very own city, we observe the young faces providing quality service at popular joints. They flash the perfect smile, coupled with “Welcome Sir/ Ma’am”, every time you enter their domain. They never fail to ask you to enjoy your meal when they deliver the food in glossy packaging to your tables and say ‘thank you’ when you leave. Ever wondered what the lives and lifestyles of these young boys and girls employed in corporate food chains are like? G Plus conducted a survey among the young employees of four major corporate food joints in the city and it bore interesting results.

Age and qualification of employees In all four joints, the employees below the rank of manager were more

than 18 years of age, the oldest being 28-30. The minimum qualification required of them was Higher Secondary Pass. We encountered employees who had completed graduate studies. They were required to have good interaction skills and some knowledge of the English language.

Types of work The employees had to pass through training and experience in several tasks in order to get promoted. Beginners were given easy tasks that involved folding boxes and packing, greeting customers and directing them to proper sized tables. A little experience landed one in the service station where orders are taken and food is brought to tables. This required thorough knowledge of the menu and offers. Another class of employees had to pass through the previous steps in order to access the kitchen, after rigorous training, in order to keep up to the uniform standards maintained by these chains in terms of taste of food.

Some others were in charge of cash and transactions. Expert employees who had passed through all these steps were in charge of training the others. In most joints, it took a minimum of six months to get promoted and higher authorities were in charge of determining the suitability of employees for each step.

Work hours and pay scale Almost all employees worked fulltime as part time shifts were not encouraged in any of the outlets in question. Each day would be divided

into shifts and one was required to work for 8 to 9 hours on a daily basis. This period was elongated during weekends and festivals when workload got considerably high. The pay scale of employees was not specified in any of the outlets. On questioning the authorities in charge, we gathered that disclosing income of the employees went against company policy.

Experience of Employees In general, fast food jobs are criticized globally for being low-paying and demeaning in nature. On the other hand, some believe it to be a great source of quick income and employment. In most of the outlets, the employees were made to answer

our questionnaire regarding their work experience in the presence of the manager or available higher authority. It could be because of the fear of landing in the news for all the wrong reasons. As mentioned earlier, the pay scale of employees was also not disclosed. This brings into question their level of liberty and empowerment. Whatever be it, we cannot deny the fact that these joints pose great opportunities to those who are sincere in their work and are willing to learn, as promotions were not based on biases but on expertise alone.

Premtha Minj, an employee of a popular pizza chain says, “I am 23 years old and have been working here since 5 years. I have passed my higher secondary exams and did not wish to study further. I like working here

because the store manager and my co-workers are very supportive. I am currently involved in serving food to customers and the next promotion will take me to the kitchen. I am looking forward to that.”

Ashok K. Sharma says, “I am 24 years old and have passed my Bachelor of Computer Applications exams. I am a fresher in this industry and have always enjoyed the support of my employer. I currently work as a cashier and earn Rs. 6000 per month.

Sometimes, I make mistakes and so do my co-workers but we solve all problems ourselves and are seldom answerable to authority.”

Karishma Dutta who has been working in the industry since two years is a quick learner. She is now in charge of all stations and even imparts knowledge to beginners. She has an older sister who is a manager and hopes to follow her in the time to come. She says that after a few promotions, she won’t require to work in an outlet anymore and will have a more dignified position that will involve inspection and control.

The outlets prefer young employees because they are quick learners and are more suited for the joints that see a majority of young customers. It could also be because of the fact that these youngsters lack previous work experience and are not equipped with the knowledge to access fair treatment. The real picture is only vaguely visible behind the veils of corporate courtesy. Leaving that aside, we cannot overlook the fact that these chains have been creating ample employment opportunities for the youth and this is a commendable aspect of the multinational fast-food giants.

G PLUS JUL 04 - JUL 10, 2015

13

Politicking

Dissidence brews in Assam Congress Syeda Ambia Zahan

new party in the offing

T

hough the Congress leadership in Delhi is trying its level best to avert a split in the Assam Congress, the surfacing of groups of rebel leaders, one after another, in the party is really giving a tough time to the grand old party.

Serious rebellion is once again brewing in the state Congress after prominent leaders Hiranya Bora and Diganta Kalita tendered their resignation to party Chief Anjan Dutta three days after the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) issued a show cause notice to him for publicly criticizing the APCC president.

Last year, around this time, political crisis in the Congress deepened when 32 Congress MLAs led by then State`s Education and Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma quit his ministry demanding the immediate ouster of Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi.

Senior congress leader, Anjan Dutta took charge last December as the APCC President and he later announced that any rebellion in the party would not be tolerated and the

party would work towards strengthening its base ahead of the Assembly polls 2016.

But, during his leadership, the party had two subsequent face-offs in the two elections that the state witnessed- the Municipality and the BTC polls. Meanwhile, Dutta’s alleged involvement in the Saradha Chit fund scam put a question mark in the integrity of the veteran Congress man as a leader of the party.

The Congress party in Assam is

being run with the help of criminals and syndicates,” Hiranya Bora had alleged before quitting the party. He also described APCC president Anjan Dutta as a tainted person who is currently under the CBI scanner in connection with the Saradha scam. Bora also raised questions about the APCC Chief ’s declared educational qualifications and said that the Congress cannot win the 2016 assembly elections under his leadership.

Hiranya Bora’s resignation came

along with the announcement of the formation of a new political party with estranged MLAs of the Congress party. He said, “I will form a new party and many ex MLAs would join me for sure.”

Sources say the new party in the offing will include most of the 32 rebel MLA’s of the Congress.

The rebels are also reportedly plotting to align their new party with the All India United Democratic Front led by Badruddin Ajmal, a former Congress ally but now seen inclined towards the Narendra Modi regime. Right after the announcement of a new party, AIUDF leader Abdur Rahim Khan had came out openly saying that AIUDF would extend support if any new party forms with the objective of defeating the Congress and the BJP in the next assembly election.

The rebels may not be in an immediate position to topple the Tarun Gogoi regime, but for the Congress, which has just recovered from the two-year-long dissidence, the new development is a major blow on the face

of the party leaders.

The party has been working hard to woo back its traditional vote bank, informally termed “Ali, Kuli Bongali”, meaning Muslims, tea tribes and Hindu linguistic minority. Besides, in January, the long-pending ministerial reshuffle was undertaken in which many a dissident MLA was accommodated and some of the prominent CM loyalists were axed. Gogoi, however, rehabilitated some of the sacked ministers as advisers, giving them the cabinet rank so as to prevent yet another round of dissidence.

Despite the series of belated interventions in the right direction, Tarun Gogoi will have a Herculean task to give his party yet another victory. His government has been accused of corruption, and many of his ministers carry the tag of inefficiency. Though the party had a game plan of striking a tacit understanding with the AIUDF, the latter’s recent announcement of extending a helping hand to the new party has closed the door to a postpoll alliance.

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G PLUS JUL 04 - JUL 10, 2015

Ward Watch

SANKAR PATH WARD NO 29

Kalyan Deb

LOCALS EAGERLY AWAIT VISHWAKARMA PUJA

Concentrated area Sankar Path

Phone number 9957961460

Population of Ward number 29

Ward number 29

Area sabha member Arjina Begum

Population of Sankar Path

Sub division 29(b) Councilor Anu Handique

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ocated adjacent to Hatigaon Road, Sankar Path, though lesser known to the people of the city, is one of the areas of which a major part remains submerged for most part of the year. A residential area situated between to Sewali Path and Puberun Path by the Hatigaon Road, the people suffer no less than Anil Nagar and Nabin Nagar. The residents have been suffering from water logging for the past several years while the problem remains unsolved till date, continuing to accentuate with time.

The area houses residences of people of different communities and backgrounds but due to the growing problem of water logging, most avoid taking the road for commuting, choosing instead the option of travelling all the way round via Puberun Path which connects the road to the Hatigaon Road. Even rickshaws and other public vehicles also avoid commuting through the road due to the water logging problem for most part of the year. The problem starts in the month of April with the arrival of the monsoon and remains in the same condition till October. No stones have been left unturned by the people of the area for the development of the area including, visiting ministers and several other departments, but to no relief.

Residents’ say According to some of the residents who have to face the worst, the

Phone number 9954864350

problem arises due to the lack of a proper outlet for the logged water to pass through.

“The problem worsened when during a function two years ago in the Shankar Path namghar, a certain amount of soil was dumped by the prayer house, due to which the problems got accentuated causing rain water to enter the premises of several residences of the area through the drains. Also, due to the construction of flats in and around the area, trucks loaded with construction materials used to travel by the area worsening the road condition. The people also collectively made an effort to fix the road condition by collecting an amount of Rs 1000 from each household but the outcome wasn’t satisfactory. The people have been patient over the years, however, and a project is expected post Vishwakarma Puja for the construction of the damaged road”, asserted Sushen Sharma, a resident of Sankar Path.

“Due to the construction of the flats in and around the area which provide water suppy through boring, the problem of drinking water is a growing concern among most of the residents. The water level in the wells have gone down”, Sharma added.

“The road being built on a lower bed than that of the main road which is approximately 3 feet, is the main reason for the water logging.

Although, previously the water used to pass through the OIL’s pipeline land, which provided an outlet for

Problems Water logging, lack of outlet drainage

Councilor’s say Talking to G Plus the councilor asserted that the main problem is the lack of outlet for the rainwater to pass by. Initiatives had also been taken for de-siltation of the drainage system.

“The main problem is the lack of proper outlet to the drainage system. Mayor of the city and former GMC commissioner had visited the land but GMC doesn’t have any say over the area as the land is under the jurisdiction of PWD. Engineers of Oil India Limited had also visited the area and has witnessed that in several parts of the pipeline land has been encroached which cause blockage of the outlets”, the councilor said.

“OIL India personals should take initiatives to clear the encroached lands which will only be favourable to the mass. People illegally residing on the encroached area dump garbage on the pipeline land after the NGO cleans off the area. Moreover, people should also be supportive enough during any kind of eviction drives on a government land or footpaths as such initiatives are only taken for the welfare of the people”, the councilor added.

The councilor also expressed consent over the rising concern of drinking water and asserted that the authorities should tighten the grip over the builders and only provide permission of building apartments after properly inspecting the part of land and till what dept will it be suitable to carry out boring for water supply.

the logged water to clear off but due to encroachments and blockages in various parts of the land, the outlet has been affected”, said Bichitna Nath Deka, secretary, Sankar Path Unnayan Samiti.

“For the past three to four years, the residents have been suffering from similar poor conditions with the namgharh remaining submerged ever since. Several departments and authority members were also approached to fix the road with a sum of Rs 64 lakhs and 24 thousand sanctioned in the year 2013 for the construction of 600mts of the road but after the completion of documentation

work, when it was finally time to implement the project, the PWD minister said that the project cannot be implemented due to lack of funds,” said Deka.

He also added, “The construction would have kicked off earlier this year but after a visit by engineers and SDOs, it was found that the sanctioned amount was not sufficient enough for the construction of the entire 700mts road and would only cover 300mts in which only the damaged parts can be covered. Meanwhile, a magistrate who resides at the entrance of Sankar Path has stressed upon the construction of the road from zero

metres which resulted in delay and more problems for the people.”

But the people, hopeful of being provided with the basic amenities, at present have no other option but to wait for the logged water to dry up on its own. Due to the lack of outlets and even the pumping out of the water from the road as it would require a 300mts pipe which is currently unavailable with the department, the residents can do nothing but wait patiently with the assurance that the construction would begin after Vishwakarma Puja as soon as the water dries up. kalyan.deb@g-plus.in

G PLUS JUL 04 - JUL 10, 2015

City

City to get

Kalyan Deb

15

800 new litter bins

I

n a new initiative by the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC), a tender has been finalised where 400 twin litter bins will be installed in the city. The initiative by GMC can come in handy to meet the problem of littering due to the lack of litter bins as the bins will be installed depending on the population density and footfall in all the prominent locations and by the main roads of the city.

Areas such as GS Road, RG Baruah Road, AT Road, etc. and can be expected to be installed in the city in the coming two months. The PVC dustbins will stand on stainless steel platforms in order to provide a better look at the dustbins and also the stainless steel will provide better endurance. The project will be initiated with a budget of Rs 12.5 lakhs and will be installed within a distance of every 15 to 20 meters depending upon the density of population of the area. The

litter bins will be under the responsibility of the NGOs of every ward that is also involved in door to door garbage collection.

However, there are several dustbins located around prominent areas in the city but at the same time they are not easily accessible for a pedestrian or for a vehicle to dump any kind of garbage due to the heavy traffic congestion on the roads. In a survey carried out by G Plus, it was found that in the G.S Road alone there 12 dustbins of which the first one is located near Six mile and gradually at Dispur, Ganeshguri, Bhangagarh, Ulubari and continues till Paltan Bazar which covers an area of 8.2kms and for a pedestrian who is finished with a certain food product such as an icecream or a packet of chips, one cannot carry it around looking for a garbage bin to dump the waste. Thus one either dumps it in the drain by the road or

Areas such as GS Road, RG Baruah Road, AT Road, etc. and can be expected to be installed in the city in the coming two months. The PVC dustbins will stand on stainless steel platforms in order to provide a better look at the dustbins and also the stainless steel will provide better endurance.

end up littering the street itself.

Garbage, trash, rubbish, refuse or whatever term we use, it is a scene we see at every nook and corner of the city. Among most popular locations, such piles can be seen gathered under a light post, edge of a footpath, a corner of two walls. If not any, an empty wrapper or packet of cigarette or panmasala being tossed out of a running vehicle window or a pedestrian stumbling onto the same while walking down the sidewalk is one of the common views that we come across in our daily life. The city has a culture of keeping the houses clean but the streets dirty. But, who is to be blamed for that?

Though the concerned authorities have come up with several initiatives of waste management such as solid waste management programme that envisages making Guwahati a dustbinfree city, making it mandatory for all

stalls to keep dustbins whereas the use of such are avoided by the pedestrians as the size of the bins refer towards the use of the outlet only hence limiting its use. GMC, prior to the elections, also introduced NGOs in all 31 wards of the city to maintain door to door garbage collection where workers of the NGO of each ward collect the garbage from each house hold and dump it in the garbage bins of the area that is later collected by GMC trucks. Several people can also be seen on the G.S.Road and the R.G. Baruah Road clearing off the dust by the roadside on a regular basis to make the roads garbage free and even after the initiative of Nirmal Assam, the authorities have not tasted success entirely, however, it is now to be seen if the installation of 400 twin litter bins will bring any change to the cleanliness scenario of the city and be successful enough in reaching out to the public.

USTM conducts training on innovative teaching methods

S

carcity of trained teachers critically hinders systematic dissemination of quality education among students, based on the theme and realizing the need of trained teachers, the University of Science & Technology (USTM) has organized a faculty development programme (FDP) with the support of the Indian

Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay at the university’s 9th Mile campus on Thursday.

The faculty members of USTM enthusiastically took part in the programme which was graced by Rupakumari, coordinator for the programme, from IIT Bombay. USTM Vice Chancellor Dr PG Rao urged the

faculty members to take advantage of the programme to make teaching in classroom more fruitful and interesting.

In the programme, besides upgrading their teaching, training and research skills, teachers were imparted training on the use of latest ICT enabled learning and useful software.

The main objective of FDP is to promote faculty growth towards the ultimate benefit in classroom. The programme also envisions empowerment of teachers through workshops, using unique blend of technology and an innovative method of teaching.

It may be mentioned that the FDP programme is part of the Na-

tional Mission on Education.

The Government of India has put stress on the NMEICT Project as part of its “Digital India Week� initiative.

USTM regularly conducts the FDP on various topics of current significance to update the faculty members with latest technologies related to education.

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G PLUS JUL 04 - JUL 10, 2015

Art

Socially Unchanged Picture

‘Emuthi Chaaul’

Subhrajit Roy

A

man of principle, having an uncompromising attitude undergoes the severe trauma of poverty. Being unable to pay the monthly dues to the landlord, he works as a luggage carrying labourer at the railway station. A daughter-inlaw who always follows her fatherin-law’s path of bringing happiness to the family. A son who has been jobless for the last eight months, but runs the family being indebted to others. Another son who has been socially active but in the name of earnings he does nothing. A daughter, who is academically qualified, but due to her father’s restriction, could not apply for a job of her own. And a village headman, who tries to prove himself as a well-wisher of the family, but in reality his corruption has brought problems to the village in general, as he keeps heaps of stocks of food grains and does monopoly for personal gain.

The picture is neither new nor extra ordinary. It is a regular phenomenon in the current society, which affects the common masses a lot. This particular family is an example of many such families, who face the wrath of atrocities due to the corruption prone administrative and

Acted and directed

by Natasurya’s son Sujit Sarma, the presentation tries to keep the original essence as it was scripted. But at certain points, mere touches of modernity with the present era are visible. Lengthwise, the presentation is quite long. political machinery. But always there remains a ray of hope which may bring solutions to all these problems in a delayed manner. Here also at the end the village headman gets arrested after losing the public’s confidence followed by a police enquiry at his granary.

The works of Natasurya Phani Sarma has always been carrying some social messages which are relevant throughout ages. The social problems that are raised in his works at the time of creation are the same at the present day as well. Though

social pattern and dimensions have changed drastically, but the significance of those problems is similar at all times. With the message of social reforms, Natasurya brought solutions to those problems as well through his dramatic works. Recently, such a creation of him named ‘Emuthi Chaaul’ was presented at the Rabindra Bhawan on June 30, 2015, by ‘Aarohi’ in association with Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Govt. of Assam.

Acted and directed by Natasurya’s son Sujit Sarma, the presentation tries to keep the original

essence as it was scripted. But at certain points, mere touches of modernity with the present era are visible.

Lengthwise, the presentation is quite long. So far as the performances are concerned, Sujit Sarma as the lead protagonist Abinash Baruah and Ruli Saikia as Rama, in the role of his daughter-in-law have the maximum stage presence. As demanded by the script, their exchange of dialogues are mostly emotional with full of outcry. They justify their roles, although at certain points the acting comes out to be loud. On the other hand Satyen

Kumar Sarma, who plays the role of village headman Biraj Baruah, brings the required negative shades in the presentation. Set design by Anup Hazarika with the purpose of multi dimensional usage suits well with the light design by Tapan Bauah. The back ground score could have been better. Although slips of dialogues by some actors on stage are clearly visible, the director could have done a better casting. Overall, with the essence of past and taste of contemporary, the presentation is a tribute to Natasurya.

Weather report for the week SAT 04 July

SUN 05 July

MON 06 July

TUE 07 July

WED 08 July

THU 09 July

FRI 10 July

Strong thunderstorms

Heavy rain. Mostly cloudy

A few tstorms. Mostly cloudy.

Thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy.

Showery. Mostly cloudy.

Widely scattered tstorms

More clouds than sun

25 / 31 °C

25 / 30 °C

26 / 30 °C

26 / 32 °C

25 / 33 °C

24 / 35 °C

24 / 34 °C

G PLUS JUL 04 - JUL 10, 2015

17

In Focus

Will a split in Congress

bring about a positive change in Assam’s political scene?

Dr. Shashanka Sekhar Dutta VETERINARIAN

T

he recent upheaval in Assam’s political scene, with several senior leaders of the state Congress party’s coming out in defiance of the present Assam Pradesh congress Committee president, Anjan Dutta has put the grand old party in a quandary. With the party barely out of the woods after a series of dissident activities by the chief minister Tarun Gogoi’s former favourite, Himanta Biswa Sarma and his band of merry Congressmen last year, the party is yet again stuck in a similar problem with hardly time to reverse its fortunes before the Assembly elections next year. G Plus talks to a cross section of people, getting their opinion about the possible political change, should a major upheaval happen within the state Congress at the moment.

Narendra Nath Deka,

Professor of Puthimari Higher Secondary School If the Congress party gets split, then the party as a whole will definitely be in a loss. And if Himanta Biswa Sarma would lead the new party, although he has not affirmed it himself, the party will get more seats but if it were to be led by Hiranya Bora, then the party will be in a loss.

Monideep Deka, Secretary, NSUI

According to me, the Congress party would not divide as per my knowledge but if it splits, then the party will not be benefitted. Some people are trying to blackmail by spreading the rumour that the party will divide. And if the party splits, then the votes will be divided which will be a great loss. With the politics that BJP is playing, all the community votes will be received by the party because the minority votes will also be divided if the Congress were divided.

Saurabh Deka

Secretary, Dispur Assembly, Youth Congress The split might not be favourable for Congress but will certainly be in favour of the youth since Hemanta Biswa Sarma is a leader who has a huge impact on the youth and people actually gather to hear his speeches and he connects to the people at the grass root level. In his constituency he knows most people by their name which is a field that other politicians and leaders still miss out on.

Uddhav Barman

CPI (M) state secretariat member “There has been infightings in the Congress since a long time and now there is a clamour that Himanta Biswa Sarma will come up with a new party.

I think no matter what happens, whether there is a new party or not, the infighting has increased drastically in the Congress party and the situation is going to be worse for Congress in Assam in the coming days.”

A

s a child, Shashanka was very passionate about having the title of doctor ahead of his name and that is what rooted the seed of growing up to be a veterinarian. Even though he was born in Lakhimpur, most part of Shashanka’s childhood was not based in one place but rather around different parts of the state such as Karimganj, Tezpur and Udalguri. But it was again in Lakhimpur from where he acquired his High School Leaving Certificate and moved on to become a doctor. After completing his Higher Secondary from Cotton College, it was in the year 1995 that he walked out of the College of Veterinary Science with the doctor title. It was the beginning of the journey for Shashanka.

However, before coming up with the idea of Just Be Friendly India Trust that was established in the year 2005 under the patronage of JBF (Scotland), Shashanka had to go through many tough times.

Post his graduation he went on to become a marketing executive for a medicine firm in Pune for the next year, then spent another year in Nagaon and then in Nameri.

Dutta also tried his hand in business when he started a diary farm in the year 1999 and delivered milk and milk products all by himself in different shops and outlets around Guwahati but unfortunately, the business went into loss after several cows and calves died after suffering from the foot and mouth disease.

But the failure did not bring Dutta down and he rather took a lesson out of it.

In the same year he came across David from Scotland, who told him about an advertisement that said the condition of cows in Delhi are very critical and required medical support which became the turning point of Dutta’s life. In 2005 he met Manoj Das who introduced Dutta to Assam Association, Delhi as an executive member but in the very

next year, he became the General Secretary of the Association. Then in the year 2008, he was chosen as the youngest co-opted member of Animal Welfare Board of India and was a member of the team that inspects the birth control operations conducted by several NGOs in Delhi and alongside continued his work with JBF. It was after four years of successful service to street cattle in Kotla, Delhi, that JBF India Trust, the brainchild of Dr. Shashanka Sekhar Dutta, expanded its work to Guwahati as a mobile animal clinic. In the year 2009, JBF a one of its only kind NGO functioning in Assam, started off as a veterinary clinic providing services to the street dogs of the city and help in controlling rabies and the growing number of street dogs. JFB provide its services to the dogs suffering on the streets and sterilise them with an aim to build a progressive society through animal welfare where humans and animals can co-exist. Symbiotically JBF’s major objective is to facilitate well-being of animals living among humans.

The organisation’s activities are directed to minimize suffering of animals by providing veterinary care and facilitation of a more bearable and adorable life to animals.

Shahshanka is also associated with Trend MMS headed by Shyamkanu Mahanta that promotes the culture of Assam and is also responsible for putting together festivals such as Rongali that managed to attract audience from abroad as well and Northeast Festival.

Married to a co-operative veterinarian wife Dr. Smriti Dutta who is also an active member of JBF, Dutta is blessed with two daughters Avileena Sanskriti Dutta and Anjeleena Divyanshi Dutta.

Shashanka looks forward to start a private diagnostic facility for animals which is lacking in Assam and a human education and rescue center for street dogs.

18

G PLUS JUL 04 - JUL 10, 2015

Life

REQUIEM Develop Your FOR LOVE Emotional Intelligence Question I feel that people around me deceive me very quickly and easily. What pleasure do they get in doing such things?

I wanted to Be God Always!

I still do!

Friends were sure I was insane!

But why is wishing To be God Thought to be Crazy?

Or for that matter Goddess?

My lover always Says I look like a Goddess!

And I love smiling At him Like an Angel!

He loves me When I smile, He wants me to be Happy!

As a child, I wanted to be Robinhood!

Friends back in school Thought That that’s a crazy Ambition!

But why not?

I would have Worked day and night In my own special way, To get the deprived What they wanted!

And they would have been so Happy!

Plain, simple, happy!

Laughing in glee!

But if I was God, I would have Created magic For people.

They would have just Prayed to me, Raising their hands, Towards me...

For their wants And desires, And I would have Given, just given,

Without too much of a Hanky-panky!

Imagine the smiles on their Faces!

The tears of joy!

There would have been no Havenots then!

My lover always Says, I always imagine too much!

But he loves me anyway!

With my crazy imaginations Et al!

One evening As a little girl..

I was blown away By the fact that I had it in Me To be a Florence Nightingale!

I still want to be one!

My lover flashes me That Smile, And makes me fall in Love With him again!

And what if I was Mother Teresa?

I ask him!

He just looks away, Emotions giving way to Tears!

I know....

I hold his hands and ask him!

Imagine if I was God! You and I would have done only Good For everyone!

Irrespective of any religion, Any borders, any community!

There would have been just One World, one people And only equals!

My lover and I flew over the rainbow, our wings flapping together in unison!

tinat ATIFA MASOOD

W

hether they deceive you sooner or later, how does it matter? I tell you, it is better they deceive and cheat you sooner than later.

Being cheated later will bring more difficulties for you.

Listen, know that you are wise. Cheating someone is a twoway thing and takes two people to make it happen, just like clapping needs both your hands. If someone cheats and takes advantage of you, then it is also because you were not fully aware.

If you are alert of what is happening around you, then how will they be able to deceive you? So you should stay alert.

If you do not get carried away by emotions then who can cheat you?

This applies even for your brother, sister, your own family and personal relationships. Do not let your emotions get the better of you. Emotions have their own place in relationships.

Butwhere you have to be intelligent and act wisely, there you should not get carried away by emotions.

Be alert and take intelligent action.

Then you will not get deceived, and you will see that even your relationships will become sweeter and more harmonious.

When people do not use their wisdom and act purely on the basis of emotions, then you will see that they quarrel over very trivial mat-

ters. We should not give anyone a chance to take advantage of us, or deceive us. How many of you here agree with me? (Many in the audience raise hands) If you have a lot of gold and money at home, keep it away in a safe rather than outside. If you carelessly keep it lying outside and your maidservant secretly steals something, then how can you blame her for it? It is your mistake in the first place. You should be wise and not keep it outside so that they do not get the tempted.

His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Ji

www.artofliving.org/yoga, Follow Sri Sri @SriSriSpeaks on twitter

19

G PLUS JUL 04 - JUL 10, 2015

Go Gaga over W

ith the observation of the first International Yoga Day on 21st June worldwide, renewed interest has been generated to know about and practice yoga. Yoga is an ancient form of exercise that focuses on strength, flexibility and breathing to boost physical and mental wellbeing. Yoga originated in India, hundreds, or possibly thousands of years ago. The history of yoga stretches back as far as ancient India, when people practiced it to increase their tranquility and spiritual insight. Yoga involves both physical and mental exercises. Traditional yoga is done by slowly stretching the body into a variety of poses while focusing on breathing and meditation. Yoga is designed to bring about increased physical, mental and emotional well-being.

Health

Yoga

Prevent Heart Disease with Yoga

Why Yoga for Heart?

Although yoga has long been believed to improve overall health, newer evidence shows that the ancient practice may also help the heart.

In fact, a new research has found that, the benefits were similar to those of conventional exercise such as brisk walking. The research found that people randomly assigned to take yoga classes saw improvements in their weight, blood pressure and cholesterol which are major cardiovascular risk factors, thereby reducing their risk of heart attacks and strokes.

There is promising evidence on the effect of yoga on improving other cardiovascular risk factors also. Doing yoga may be a good way to protect against heart disease, particularly if someone cannot do more vigorous exercise, the research suggests.

Results showed first that risk factors for heart disease improved more in those doing yoga than in those doing no exercise, and second, that yoga had an effect on these risks comparable to exercise. In general, yoga is well accepted by old and young alike, and offers cardiovascular benefits regardless of age. On an average, the review found, people who practiced yoga lowered their blood pressure by 5 mm of Hg, and their LDL cholesterol (the bad cholesterol) by 12 mg from the baseline. They also lost an average of 2 Kg of their body weight. However, no improvements were found in parameters of diabetes. Yoga can help lower blood pressure, increase lung capacity, improve respiratory function and heart rate, and boost circulation and muscle tone. It can also improve an overall well-being while offering strength-building benefits. Yoga also has proven benefits

for those who have faced heart attack.

The acute emotional stress of such an event certainly has a significant and adverse effect on the heart. That’s where yoga can be a tremendous benefit to manage the stress. Many patients with long standing disease like heart disease go through depression and other emotions ranging from anxiety to grieving. The calming benefits of yoga may help with that — and the benefits can be seen right away.

How yoga helps?

It is not clear why yoga might be beneficial, but experts say it could be due to its calming effect. Stress has been linked to heart disease and high blood pressure. The benefits could be due to working of the muscles and breathing, which can bring more oxygen into the body, leading

to lower blood pressure. Yoga can do more than get the body moving; it’s a “mind-body” practice that can also help by reducing stress.

Some concerns Although the evidence of yoga’s beneficial effect in cardiovascular health is growing, a physiological explanation for this effect remains unclear. One complicating issue is that there are many different types of yoga, ranging from gentle stretching and breath work to more vigorous workouts that require a good deal of strength and flexibility. So it’s not clear whether any one type of yoga is better than others, or how often people need to practice the discipline to see benefits, according to the researchers. It’s incorrect to think that yoga, or any form of exercise, can take the place of any regular medica-

tions a person might require. Also, yoga does not count towards physical activity requirements of 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic activity per week as recommended by American Heart Association.

The take to the mat message If people are interested in yoga for improving their health, it could be worth a shot. Yoga is potentially very useful and worth pursuing as a risk improvement practice. Not all types of yoga are suitable for every person.

Individuals may want to consult their doctor before embarking on an exercise plan, or talk to a professional about the right style of yoga for them.

People should know what they’re getting into before taking a yoga class -- especially if they have physical limitations or medical conditions.

And even relatively healthy people would be wise to consult a doctor at the beginning. Yoga has the potential to be a cost-effective treatment and prevention strategy given its low cost, lack of expensive equipment or technology, potential greater adherence and health-related quality of life improvements, and possible accessibility to larger segments of the population. Surely, long-term, sustained yoga may play a role in improving overall health including the health of the heart. Hand in hand with leading a heart-healthy lifestyle, it really is possible for a yoga-based exercise model to help prevent or reverse heart disease. It may not completely reverse it, but there will definitely be benefits.

Dr. Bikash Rai Das, Consultant Heart Surgeon, GNRC Hospital

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G PLUS JUL 04 - JUL 10, 2015

Reviews

u Yo LD TEN SHOU LIS Album: Pageant Material Artist: Kacey Musgraves

GAME IEW REV

I

Motogp 15

T

Movi Revi e ew

TERMINATOR GENESIS

Cast: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Emilia Clarke, Jason Clarke, Jai Courtney, Lee Byung-Hun

Director: Alan Taylor

I

n a world where humans are the minority, and our own technology has united against us in the mission to rid the earth of organic life for good, it seems that only defeat lies ahead for these once powerful nations. It’s just a few years after Skynet, a highly intelligent computer program integrated into every facet of society, wiped out billions of lives in a single moment. Known to the few survivors as “Judgment Day”, this devastating event marked the time when hope seemed all but lost for the future of humanity. Then came John Connor. A powerful leader characterized by perseverance and scars that suggest he’s been down in the trenches, Connor is a revolutionary in a time of passive resistance; a man who took it upon himself to rally what was left of the humans to fight for survival, urging his fellow men to defend themselves, and declaring the war far from lost. A shining beacon of hope, John leads the human

resistance in the fight against Skynet and its army of artificially intelligent killing machines. However, the more battles he wins against the machines, the more impervious their plans become, as Skynet develops a way to win this war before it ever started.

By using their advanced technology to send a Terminator back to 1984 to kill John Connor’s mother, Sarah, before she ever gives birth to John, they seek to end the timeline of the man who could possibly put a permanent halt to Skynet’s plans.

This is a story that relies so heavily on appearances that its villain removes his physical flaws as soon as he reveals himself. It’s unfortunate that a movie about saving humanity goes through the blockbuster motions so much that it winds up feeling robotic, but that’s the case here.

Terminator Genisys is one of the most action-packed, busiest films of the summer, and yet…nothing really happens.

he latest bike racing games are so realistic that racers are even using them to learn circuits ahead of a big race. MotoGP 2015 is the latest iteration of the popular series and one the latest generation consoles the level of realism is even more impressive.

Visordown was invited to a preview of the upcoming game - due for release on June 19.

Large HD TVs at the event made the bikes almost seem life size on the screen. It only took ten minutes of playing the game to see just how quickly you could become addicted to this game.

What’s new from the last title: 2014 Moto GP? The developers have taken all the best bits from the previous games and have come up with a higher-definition, better performing more engaging game for 2015.

Of course all the bikes are the 2015 grid and running the latest livery. The graphics are sharper with better definition; this can be seen in

the grass, tress, track surface and the rain. The designers have paid attention to every little detail on the bikes and on the tracks. MotoGP 2015 is designed as a simulator that was built to extend your MotoGP experience.

One of my favourite features that real race fans will love is the ability to delve into the racing archives and choose legendary riders, to ride machines from previous seasons like the notoriously difficult two-stroke bikes.

Players get the opportunity to set up their bike. You can tweak its handling, brakes, and even traction control which alters the level of tyre wear in a race. Also gamers need to respond to weather conditions, from hot sunny tarmac to torrential downpours.

MotoGP 2015 can be played with other players online. You can also share photos of your team or racing footage. You can race in real time or set up challenges for other players to achieve in their own time.

f Kacey Musgraves didn’t possess a sense of irony, there’d be a sense of triumph to Pageant Material, the title of her second album. Her first, 2013’s Same Trailer Different Park, caused a sensation in certain quarters, racking up accolades that outweighed its sales -a situation reflecting country radio’s systematic resistance to female artists more than the music itself. Despite this conspicuous lack of hits, Pageant Material doesn’t make concessions to commercial radio. It is of a piece with Same Trailer Different Park, partially because a chunk of it was written around the same time, partially because Musgraves decides to move forward by harnessing the subtlety of “Merry Go ‘Round” and “Follow Your Arrow,” using their understated folk as a touchstone for her sophomore set. Despite the briskness of the near-novelty “Biscuits”- its chorus call of “Mind your own biscuits and life will be gravy” revealing a taste for country corn somewhat at odds with a progressive reputation based on the all-inclusive “Follow Your Arrow,” not to mention her fondness for weed - Pageant Material favors softness, sometimes nearly swooning in its slowness.

Book: Once Upon a Dharamyudh Author: Vibhor Tikiya

D You SHOU Rea LD d

haram is a dream institution for its founders and employees alike, who give it their sweat and blood. In time, it prospers owing to the fine acumen of its owners and efforts of its employees. Prakash is caught in the web of fulfilling his father’s dying wish and gives up his dream job to take up the mantle of responsibility at Dharam. A radical thinker equipped with modern ways of working, he sets the company and workers on a path of development, though with much resist-

ance to his methods. Uday’s humble origins and difficult childhood inspire him to dream big, he dreams of equality and fair treatment for the weaker sections of the society. He believes it is his Dharam to raise his voice against any injustice.

The fight between a man’s belief and an institution’s values becomes a tussle between the haves and the have-nots, acquiring magnanimous proportions.

Both believe they are right and are willing to do what is needed to be done for their Dharam.

NOW SHOWING Terminator Genisys

Jurassic World

Hamari Adhuri Kahani

Abcd 2

Guddu Rangeela

Apsara Cinema

Daily at 11.00 AM, 2.00, 5.00 & 8.00 PM

Anuradha Cineplex

Daily at 9.15 AM, 5.15 & 815 PM

Daily at 2.30 PM

Daily at 11.30 AM

Fun Cinemas

Daily at 12.20 & 5.5. PM

Daily at 10.00 AM

Daily at 2.50 PM

Daily at 8.45 PM

Second Hand Husband

Gold Cinema (Paltan Bazaar)

Daily at 5.30 PM

Daily at 2.30 PM

Daily at 11.00 AM, 2.00 & 5.00 PM

Daily at 8.00 PM

Daily at 8.30 PM

Gold Cinema (Fancy Bazar)

Daily at 11.30 AM

Daily at 5.30 PM

Daily at 2.00, 5.00 & 8.00

Daily at 11.00 AM

Daily at 2.30 PM

Gold Cinema (Narengi)

Daily at 5.00 PM

Daily at 11.00 AM

Daily at 2.00 PM

Daily at 8.00 PM

Telebooking numbers: Anuradha Cineplex; 03612656968, 9954544738, Fun Cinemas: 9864800100, 9864800200, Gold Cinema (Fancy Bazaar): 03612735367, 9854077177, Gold Cinema (Paltan Bazaar): 9854066166, Gold Cinema (Narengi): 8811001898

G PLUS JUL 04 - JUL 10, 2015

Tech Watch

HOT ON 2 WHEELS

F

ast bikes, open roads and long journeys; there is nothing more enthralling than the wind on your face and the rush to head to the horizon. The trend of leisure motorcycling is gaining headway in India, and everyone seems to be caught up in it. A Sunday morning ride the boys from the bike club is a Sunday well spent.

India is now home to a lot of imported bikes of different makes including Yamaha, Honda, BMW, Hyosung, Triumph and Duca-

Model: Hero Hastur Make: Hero Moto Corp.

Expected Price: `4,00,000

ti. Sports and Cruiser bikes alike, the streets are flooded with bikers, donned with their gear and a genuine bike enthusiast knows the importance of safety before speed. However, let’s not make this an issue about safety and rowdy riders on the streets of Guwahati.

Today we’re featuring bikes soon to be launched in India. These bikes are Indian made and India centric, so don’t be alarmed if you don’t see BMW and Hyosung on this list.

Model: TVS Draken X-21 Make: TVS Expected Price: `1,65,000

T

his is unmistakably Hero Moto Corp.’s trump card. This 620cc beast grabbed all the attention at the Auto Expo last year and is due for production later this year or so they say... The first glance at the Hero Hastur gives away its streetfighter naked body design. Equipped with dual projector beam headlamps, the 620cc, 4stroke liquid cooled engine revs up to 70 bhp @ 9,600 rpm with a 6 speed transmission. The Hero Hastur takes 3.8 secs to reach 100 kmph, but however this brings in the question of fuel efficiency. It will sport 17-inch cast aluminium wheels with sticky

A

t the 2014 Auto Expo, TVS Motors announced, and put up for display the Draken X-21.

The Draken is a 250cc concept which is due to begin production by the end of 2015. The Draken-X21 sports a liquid-cooled race engine that is expected to deliver about 38.5 bhp and a maximum torque of 23Nm. It will feature a 6speed transmission. And of course, it will feature front and rear disc brakes.

The design incorporates an under engine exhaust which is said to provide better fuel efficiency but most bikers beg to differ with that opinion. Mono suspension and an aluminium trellis

Model: Pulsar CS 400 Make: Bajaj Estimated Price: `1,75,000

21

frame, the Draken X-21 looks sporty and muscular at the same time. The design has noteworthy features like LED headlamps, rear view mirrors on the handlebar, aerodynamic design evenly spread out across the body and weighs in at about 134kgs.

For the fuel conscious markets of India, the company claims 33kmpl with a 10litre tank capacity. The Bike is in direct competition with the new range of Bajaj Pulsar and KTM Duke 390 It is rumoured to be the successor to the TVS Apache RTR which has gained a lot of attention among the urban youth. If everything falls into place, this will be another feather in the cap for TVS.

Pirelli Diablo Rosso II tires.

The design incorporates a space frame chassis which gives the Hastur a muscular. A rear monoshock suspension, dual disc brakes in the front and single disk brake in the rear.

The instrument panel includes an all digital fuel gauge, tachometer, speedometer, dual trip meter, low oil indicator and more.

The Hastur is all set to compete against the KTM Duke 690, Triumph Street Triple, Benelli TNT 600, Hyosung GT 650N which are soon to be launched in the Indian markets. It will be available in the Grey and Yellow colour combination.

Model: Graphite Make: TVS Expected Price: `75,000+

T

his is probably one of the sportiest looking two wheelers you’ll get to see. TVS Graphite is one of the most anticipated two wheelers due to be launched this later this year. The Graphite is a visual treat. What it offers is a 150cc engine with telescopic suspension in the front and a gas charged rear suspension. It will feature both front and rear disc brakes with magnesium alloy wheels and racing tires. The engine will deliver 8,000 rpm at 14bhp which makes it the most powerful scooter in its class.

The makers have promised an Automated Manual Transmission system with paddle shift technology for better fuel efficiency and traffic manoeuvrability. The designs released come in a dual colour combination of matt grey and yellow. The TVS Graphite will feature a fully digitized instrument cluster including a fuel gauge, speedometer, low oil indicator and low battery indicator. The makers have also promised a

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‘maintenance free battery’. This would be something new to look forward to.

Once again, TVS targets the urban youth with the Graphite. A performance based scooter which offers style and functionality together.

his will be Bajaj’s first 400cc motorcycle.

Bajaj has been extremely aggressive in their designs after they acquired shares of KTM-Sportmotorcycle AG. Much like the others, the CS 400 was featured at the 2014 Auto expo. The design would be best called a hybrid; a semi cruising, semi-aggressive naked body design, perfect for Indian roads. The Pulsar CS400 will be launched by mid 2016 in the market. It is the perfect blend of sports inspired design, technology driven and its competitive pricing will surely give foreign companies a run for their

money.

The engine on the CS400 is a 375cc, single cylinder, 4stroke, liquid cooled beast. With its 6 speed gearbox, it is designed to rev upto 9000rpm at 43bhp. The top speed of the Pulsar CS 400 is clocked at 150 kmph and an average mileage of 33kmpl. The bike will include 2 disc plates on the front and rear tires; however it will be available in variants with the option of the ABS system.

The design of the CS 400 will sport a rear monoshock, digital instrument panel, LED lamps; the works.

Inputs by Sidharth Bedi Varma

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G PLUS JUL 04 - JUL 10, 2015

Entertainment

‘Tumar Premot Pori’

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ove, sex and career- These are the three factors driving the youth today. There is no escape from the vicious cycle and no one wants to either. While the effects can be both positive and negative, it can either make you or break you. Tied to the life of a journalist, these aspects are at the very core of the movie.

The film has been directed and produced by Boon Bora under the banner of Zurikh Productions. The story, screenplay and dialogue have also been written by Boon Bora.

The cast includes many newcomers along with some popular artistes and several journalists from the electronic and print media. Popular actor Dibyajyoti Das plays the role of the protagonist Aniruddha Dutta, while Yashowant Singh plays the role of a cabinet minister. Akashdeep plays the manager of a company and other roles have been portrayed by Nayan Nirban, Guna Mahanta, Pankaj Barua, Rubi Mahanta, Papori Saikia, Fairypriya, Gayatree Borah, Madhusmita, Rajbhairav, Pranjal Prince, Tapan Saikia. A number of journalists from both electronic and print media have acted on this movie including Rejek Ali Ahmed, Diganta Kumar Nath, Kalyan Kumar Kalita,

o be in conversation with National Award winning Music Director, Dhrubajyoti Phukan is truly humbling. An engineer by degree, a musician by profession, Dhrubajyoti Phukan is an example of how pursuit of dreams and passion is much more important than a desk job. His day and nights became one in search of perfection. Here are a few excerpts from the conversation:

You have a degree in Mechanical Engineering and a career in music; tell us a little about that venture.

Karen Kalita, Predeep Nath, Kishore Goswami, Abhijeet Laskar, Devajit Bhuyan, Pulin Devsarmah, Raju Baruah, Chandana Sarma, Iva Mahanta, Raju Sarma, Jishnu Medhi, Faijur Rahman. The film has the special appearance of Durlabh Samua, the MLA of Nagaon.

The music of ‘Tumar Premot Pori’ has been directed by Kanu Kandali and arranged by Lakhyajeet Kalita. The songs are rendered by Santa Uzir, Manoj Kashyap, Sunanda Paul, Dr. Rupshekhar Deka, Ritu Bikash, Parashmoni, Jonmoni Bordoloi, Bidisha Bhuyan, Murchana Pathak and Rimjhim Rima. The songs have been

written and tuned by Saiful Islam, Tokheswar Saikia and Kanu Kandali.

Sameer Buragohain is the lead choreographer. Makeup has been done by Akash, Majoni and Kumkum.

The cinematography has been done using a Canon 5-D by Moon Haloi and Moon Talukdar. The editing has been done by Manash Kaishyap and Rajeev. ‘Tumar Premot Pori’s publicity consultant is Diganta Kumar Nath whereas publicity designer is BMB Features. Kalyan Kumar Kalita is the co-publicity consultant.

This film about the life of a journalist is sure to give its audience a different type of entertainment.

Chandu

Ashim Baishya’s latest venture

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shim Baishya recently has been one of the most active filmmakers in the Assamese industry. A choreographer turned filmmaker; Ashim Baishya also has ‘Love In Bangkok’ and ‘Du Du Dubai’ to his credit. His latest movie titled ‘Chandu’ is an Assamese feature film, produced by Dambarudhar Bora, under the banner of Urvashi Productions. Co-produced by Biswajit Das and Bhumika Talukdar, Chandu’s story belongs to director Ashim Baishya and the script and dialogue have been given by Nilakshi Devi. The story revolves around the relations and conflicts between slum dwellers and the elite class.

The title role of Chandu – the ordinary man, is brilliantly played

AN ENGINEER WITH A KNACK FOR music

I have always been inclined towards music since my childhood. I have a degree in Mechanical Engineering from AEC, and back in the day I worked as a project engineer.

At one point of time I was also a lecturer in Assam Engineering Institute.

So it’s not that I never pursued what my degree taught me to, it’s just that I realised that if I never pursued my passion, I would be frustrated in my old age.

So was there no family pressure in this pursuit?

When I was in Guwahati, I was doing well as an engineer and making good progress with my music. So there was no real pressure because my family trusted my decision. This basically means it was my responsibility to be successful, and I have always been a disciplined and calculated guy which has helped me throughout my life.

In a city like Mumbai, how have things changed since your arrival and do National Awards help in a big city like Mumbai?

by celebrated actor-director Baharul Islam, and is ably supported by Jonali Devi, Gayatri Bora, Trishna Devi, Hirakjyoti Bora, child artistes Chinmoy Barman, Sneha Laskar, Dikhita Das. Other artists in the film are Muhi Bora, Rajen Neog, Madhavi, Ruprekha, Reena Bora, Hemanta Bora, Pankaj Bora, Rajkumar Thakur,

Abhijit, Marami, Aaimoni. The cinematography credits belong to Raju Chetri and Suraj Duarah and editing has been done by Moni Rajkonwar and Anupam Bordoloi. Ajay Phukan has directed the music for the movie, while choreography has been done by the director himself.

I’ve been here since1993. In Mumbai, “every day is a struggle”.

There is no golden carpet laid out for anyone. But this is exactly what I love. It’s a challenge and everyday has to be new. And I look forward to new challenges because they boost your work. Our struggles bring out the best in us. I’ve been working with Pritam for the last 10 years, and even though he has achieved a lot, everyday is a struggle. So it’s not about what you’ve done, it’s about keeping up with this city.

Tell us about the new trends in Bollywood. We see fusion with western, folk, traditional and many other genres. What do you think will be the new flow?

You can’t predict anything in Bollywood, or in any form of art for that matter. In this day and age, everything is old after about 3 months.

Maybe things will go back to folk, maybe electronic or maybe there will be something new. This gives us an opportunity to study more, analyze more, experiment more and keep our minds open. And change is unpredictable.

Let me give you an example; contrary to what most people say, I don’t think Electronic music is mechanical or lacks emotion. It has its own way of gaining popularity, its own way of combining with folk or western or traditional. Instruments may not change with time, but that doesn’t mean the genres will remain unaffected. Maybe in a couple of decades or more, electronic music will be traditional to some place. It is all unpredictable.

Was your shift to Mumbai in search of new avenue, new opportunities? Did you feel you could not harness your full potential in Assam?

It’s not that Assam lacks anything, but Mumbai is a hub to everything. When I was still in pursuit of a career I had no access to internet and there was a dearth of resources.

That’s one of the reasons why I shifted to Mumbai. In this present day and age you have the internet and access to resources is abundant. So you can create music from any corner of the world.

Your favourite artist from Assam?

Of course Dr. Bhupen Hazarika.

What is your music of choice?

I always like music which is technical and creative at the same time. This is why I enjoy session music. I’m not a live performance kind of person, although I have had experience with it in the past. I enjoy taking time with my creativity.

G PLUS JUL 04 - JUL 10, 2015

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Horoscope Taurus Good news can make all the difference to your family situation, particularly if you’ve been waiting on a decision or information. It seems you have reason to celebrate! There’s also a powerful focus on communication, encouraging you to be compassionate and forgiving regarding past hurts. This isn’t a time to hold grudges. Reach out and make amends.

A dynamic transit could coincide with a windfall, the chance of a new job, or an opportunity that’s too good to pass up. Whatever experience comes your way, you’ll feel all the richer because of it. Get ready as Mars hikes into your sign midweek, giving you additional vitality and courage. Even so, it helps to respect different opinions, as this influence can encourage you to rise to the bait.

Virgo

Leo An idea or inspiration could spur you to action, and it might result in a plan that brings you satisfaction and fulfillment. Be sure to listen to your intuition on Monday, as it may be crucial in bringing a special opportunity your way. Meanwhile, it helps to take care of matters close to your heart, particularly if a situation needs a sensitive touch to resolve.

An intuitive hunch could lead you to just the bargain you’ve been hoping for. Pay attention if you feel you should visit a certain shop or online site or even call a friend. The item you’re pining for could soon be yours. There’s also a lively social scene showing up, particularly from midweek, when friends rally round and invitations become more plentiful.

Scorpio

Libra The start of the week has excellent potential and may involve a stroke of good fortune. A meeting could put you in touch with information or opportunities that make quite a difference in your life.

Plus, a desire to forge ahead can see you pushing past doubts and fears to achieve a personal goal or career plan. Don’t wait until you’re in the right mood. Go for it and the results should follow.

Progress at work could be the result of an upbeat transit that enhances your chance of success. If the offer of a job or contract comes up and it’s something you desire - grab it right away. This is one chance that won’t last long. Later, travel plans could be on the agenda - and you may be drawn to places that have a certain mystique about them.

Capricorn

Sagittarius Information or fresh perspectives could inspire you to take a new path. Whether this is the result of reading a book or hearing a talk, you may discover new tools with which to shape your destiny. The focus shifts to your zone of shared finances midweek, stirring things up and encouraging you to take action to resolve any money difficulties.

There’s the chance of a windfall, small raise, or other money coming your way early in the week. What’s more, it could be unexpected and so a bit of a surprise. It’s also possible that you’ll hear positive news about a loan or other credit. The focus swings to relationships and interactions as Mars moves into Cancer for the next six weeks or so.

Pisces

Aquarius

Sudoku

Finances get a boost early on. It’s possible you’ll get a windfall or raise out of the blue. A lucrative deal or contract could also show up, and you’ll be eager to accept. There’s more good news, too, as Mars moves into your romance and pleasure sector to enhance your chances of finding that special date.

BLOOD BANK

Arya Hospital, Ulubari 2606888, 2606665 Ganga Blood Bank 2454742, 2455029 Lion’s Club of Ghy Central 2546611 Marwari Yuva Manch 2546470, 2547251 Saharia’s Path Lab (24 hours) 2458594

HOSPITALS Arya Hospital, Ulubari (2606888, 2606665) B Baruah Cancer Institute (2472364/66) Brahmaputra Hospital Ltd (2451634/678) Chatribari Christian Hospital 0361-2600051, 9207044374 Downtown Hospital 2331003, 9864079366, 9435012669 Guwahati Medical College (2529457, 2529561) Guwahati Medical College Emergency (2263444) International Hospital 0361-7135005

Mahendra Mohan Choudhury Hospital (2541477, 2543998) Marwari Hospital & Research Centre 0361-2602738/39 Marwari Maternity Hospital 0361-2541202/01 Nemcare Hospital 0361-2528587, 2455906, 2457344 Pratiksha Hospital 0361-2337260, 2337183/84 Basistha Military Hospital (2304617/0351)

Railway Central Hospital Casuality (2671025) Redcross Hospital (2665114) Sri Sankardeva Netralaya 0361-2233444, 2228879, 2228921 TB Hospital (2540193) Wintrobe Hospital 0361-2519860, 98647-77986 IHR-Institute of Human Reproduction 0361-2482619,09864103333 GNRC Hospital 0361 2227702 GNRC Life First Ambulance 9401194011

24-HOUR PHARMACIES Arya Hospital, Ulubari (2606888, 2606665) DEAD BODY CARRYING VAN GLP Social Circle 2737373, 9435047046 Marowari Yuva Manch 2542074, 2547251 GGUMTA 98640-16740 ELECTRICITY SUPPLY Call Centre – 9678005171

OTHERS Fire Emergency 101 State Zoo 2201363 GMC Carcass Pickup 9435190720, 9864047222 LPG Emergency/Leakage 2385209, 2541118

RADIO TAXI SERVICES Prime Cabs 0361- 2222233 Green Cabs 0361-7151515 My Taxi 0361-2228888 Cherry Cabs 8876222288

Cinema Hall Anuradha Cineplex – 0361-2656968, 99545-44738 Fun Cinema (HUB)- 98648-00100, 98648-00200 Gold Cinema (Paltan Bazaar) – 98540-66166 Gold Cinema (Salasar) – 0361-2735367, 98540-77177 Gold Cinema (Narengi) – 88110-01898

police station A Sudoku puzzle consists of 81 cells which are divided into nine columns, rows and regions. The task is now to place the numbers from 1 to 9 into the empty cells in such a way that in every row, column and 3×3 region each number appears only once.

last week solution

Friends seem to be very supportive of you, so much so that the early part of the week could bring a pleasant surprise your way.

Perhaps someone will make an offer that you can’t refuse - and that you’re unlikely to receive again. Even so, be on the alert, as surprises can show up out of the blue. Health and lifestyle matters gain in importance, too.

Ambulance 102 Arya Hospital, Ulubari 2606888, 2606665 Downtown Hospital 9864101111, 9435012669 GLP Social Circle 2737373 GGUMTA (Mirza) 03623-227109 Marowari Yuva Manch 2542074, 2547251 Free Ambulance to GNRC Hospitals Toll Free: 1800-345-0011

Cancer

Gemini Monday’s positive transit can coincide with an unexpected encounter that could have soul-mate potential. It’s also possible you’ll be inspired by this person to collaborate on a special project, one that’s deeply meaningful to you. Personal desires are also emphasized and might be the reason you’re tempted to go bargain hunting this week.

Citypedia

AMBULANCE

Aries Monday could be an especially fortunate time for you, particularly if you’ve been working hard and are hoping to see your efforts rewarded. Stay alert - this is the time when opportunities can appear out of the blue. Even so, make the time on Tuesday to read through important documents to avoid mistakes.

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SP, Kamrup District: Ph- 2540278 DGP Control Room: Ph- 2540242 SB Control Room: Ph-2261511 Police Control Room: Ph-2540138, 2540113 Azara PS: Ph2840287 Basista PS: Ph-2302158 Bharalumukh PS: Ph- 2540137, 2731199 Borjhar PS: Ph-2840351 Chandmari PS: Ph- 2660204 Chandrapur PS: Ph-2788237, 2785237 Dispur PS: Ph-2261510 Fancybazar PS: Ph- 2540285

Fatasil Ambari PS: Ph-2471412 Geetanagar PS: Ph-2417323 Hatigaon: Ph-2562383 Jalukbari PS: Ph-2570587 Jalukbari Out Post: Ph-2570522 Jorabat: Ph-2896853 Khanapara: Ph- 2281501 Khetri PS: Ph-2787699, 2787220 Latasil PS: Ph-2540136 Noonmati PS: Ph- 2550281 North Guwahati PS: Ph-2690255 Paltanbazar PS: Ph-2540126 Panbazar PS: Ph-2540106 Pragjyotishpur Ps: Ph-2785237 Women PS Panbazar: Ph-2524627

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G PLUS JUL 04 - JUL 10, 2015

Catching Up

Miley Cyrus named PETA’s Sexiest Vegetarian of 2015

Bhanita Haloi

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inger Miley Cyrus has been named the Sexiest Vegetarian of 2015 by animal rights organisation People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).

The news was announced on the organisation’s website on Thursday.

Cyrus has pipped 100 other vegetarian celebrities like Ariana Grande, Ellie Goulding, Prince and Richard Linklater for the honour.

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“After hearing the heart-rending song written for her beloved blowfish and reading about her unflinching dedication to animal rights and her decision to go vegan, PETA knew that Cyrus isn’t just any sexy vegetarian celebrity - she’s the Sexiest Vegetarian Celebrity of 2015! Congratulations, Miley,” PETA explained how it came to crown the 22-year-old as the Sexiest Vegetarian.

Ka m u r of the week

RC update is the next nightmare for almost everyone as even genuine residents of Guwahati are having to undergo a lot of hassle to update their legacy information. However, the ones who are the worst off are the people who work round the clock and then have to listen to taunts from their elders at home for not taking time out to complete the NRC formalities.

Guwahati

GYAN

About me Hi! I’m Bhanita Haloi. I graduated from Icon Commerce College with a degree in Education. I love to express myself and give space to my creativity with dancing and pursuing modelling is one of my fantasies.

I love to make new friends, meet new people and believe in a simplistic lifestyle. I participated in Miss Pink Villa beauty pageant and was adjudged ‘Miss Beautiful Eyes’.

Mojo I have an older sister who has always been supportive of me. She’s been my guardian angel, ever since I can recall.

Her support makes me feel stronger and helps me to take on new challenges. route in the woods I plan to pursue my Masters from Gauhati University and continue my modelling career alongside.

Did you know?

Dighalipukhuri

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he lake is known as Dighalipukhuri on account of its elongated archaeological plan that is spread to an area 41.125 Bigha with the of length-1260ft and breadth-470 ft. Dighalipukhuri is an ancient channel of the river Brahmaputra, now flowing on north to the river, this ancient channel extends to the south-west connected to river Bharalu via Chalabeel and Barchalabeel.

The old channel had been dammed and a picturesque take (pukhuri) created with objectives of navigation and settlement as the ancient city of Pragjyotishpura flourished on arms of the river

Brahmaputra.

Discovery of an inscribed Terracotta sealing (used in trade and commerce) and evidence of a brick built tank datable to the Shunga-Kushana period (BC 200 - AD 300) at Ambari archaeological site, situated on this channel indicates such ancient development of Pragjyotishpur on the bank of this ancient channel. Ambari Archaeological Site continued to flourish till the late mediaeval period. A copperplate inscription (CE 1872) of Ahom king Gourinath Singha (CE 1780 - 1795) records the existence of a royal dockyard (Naoxali) at Guwahati. The strategic location

and elongated rectangular architectural plan of Dighalipukhuri also indicates that it was used as a dockyard by the Ahom monarchy.

Mythology has it that Pragjyotishpura nripati Bhagadutta of the Mahabharata epic excavated this tank during the marriage of his daughter Bhanumati with the Kaurav prince Duryyodhana. Apart from being a tourist spot that not only offers one the experience of boating but also displays the statues of legendary singer Dr. Bhupen Hazarika and Radha Govinda Baruah.

The channel is also the practise ground of the city’s rowing team.

The quest for thirst Photo: Adib Zamali

PIC OF THE

WEEK

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