City grapples with vehicle thefts but shirks from installing HSRP PG 02
VOLUME 04 | ISSUE 17 FEB 18 - FEB 24, 2017 PRICE `10
Most wanted
fraudster
arrested again
Rahul Chanda
In 2013, Nilim Dutta had fractured his legs while trying to evade arrest and this time he caused injury to two police personnel on way to finally landing behind bars after having allegedly duping many
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fter evading arrest for quite some time, career fraudster Nilim Dutta was finally arrested from his rented apartment in Joypur locality of Kharghuli under Latasil Police Station on 13th February last. Dutta was wanted in connection with a case registered with Jalukbari Police Station for allegedly posting objec-
tionable remarks against Gauhati University after the recent incident of alleged molestation of a female student by two male students of Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati (IITG.) Interestingly, Nilim, according to Latasil police, is a most wanted fraudster and even Latasil police was hunting for him since quite a while.
Continued on page 4
Blundering ‘vigilante’ arrested, jailed and bailed PG 07
New Hunk on the Block Samar Sarkar PG 23
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G PLUS FEB 18- FEB 24, 2017
Lead Story
Rahul Chanda
City grapples with vehicle thefts but shirks from installing HSRP
Even as vehicle theft remains a major issue in Guwahati, the transport department and the traffic police have still not been able to mandate the High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) in totality within the city
A non HSRP vehicle
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ehicle theft has always been a thorn in the flesh for Guwahatians. Police stations in Guwahati prominently display photographs of “known vehicle lifters” at their entrances for all to see. Sources in the crime branch, talking to G Plus, said that vehicle lifters keep changing their modus operandi and in most of the cases the drivers are involved. Stolen vehicles are usually taken out of Guwahati. However, if a vehicle has High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) installed it becomes difficult for the lifters to register the same at the DTO of the new location to where the vehicle has been taken. And yet today, installing HSRP is not a mandate in the city. What is the status of HSRP in Guwahati and are the vehicles without HSRP hauled up? Who is responsible for mandating it in the state? Has the government generated any revenue from fines on vehicles that do not have HSRP?
The history The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India amended Rule 50 of Central Motor Vehicle Rules 1989 to standardise the pattern of displaying registration marks throughout India. The state governments and union territories were asked to take necessary action to ensure the implementation of Rule 50 of Central Motor Vehicle Rules 1989, on or before 31st October 2006 for the newly registered vehicles and within a period of two years thereafter, for already registered vehicles. So, High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) was expected to be installed in all vehicles within a period of two years from the commencement of the scheme in any state. In Assam, HSRP installation started in June 2012. So initially, the new vehicles and within June 2014 all the previously
registered vehicles were expected to be installed with HSRP. Did this happen?
The status According to a highly placed source in Agros Impex India Pvt Ltd (the company which is responsible for fitting HSRP on the vehicles) a very minimal number of vehicles installed HSRP in Guwahati. The source said that approximately 16,858 vehicles were installed with HSRP in 2013, 44,394 in 2014, 6,626 in 2015 and 74,542 vehicles in 2016 were fitted with HSRP. Interestingly, according to the source, they have a room which is filled
source said that as the challan is made the company gets the order for making the HSRP which they do, but the vehicle owners later do not show up for installing the HSRP on their vehicles. So there is a big difference in the number of challans generated and the number of vehicles fitted with HSRP. Since the commencement of the implementation, the source said that only newly bought vehicles usually go to the District Transport Office to install the security plates. The old vehicles are hardly seen installing such plates. The source also said that even among the newly bought vehicles, not all owners follow the security norms. Expensive vehicles also install some fashionably designed plates breaking all norms of Central Motor Vehicle Rules. The source further added that this is the result of the authorities not mandating HSRP for all vehicles. Where all vehicle owners are actually expected to install HSRP, the same is not happening at present. So the data proves that the number of vehicles being installed with HSRP is far lesser than the
Despite the many attributes of the High Security Registration Plates or HSRP, the irony remains that HSRP is still not a mandate, the authorities have still not been able to enforce the scheme, vehicle thefts in the city continue and police stations continue to prominently display photos of “Known Vehicle Lifters” to the brim with HSRP plates for which they had received payment challans but the customers never came to install HSRP on their vehicles. The source described that initially after the implementation of HSRP scheme in Assam, the DTO had made a rule that the vehicle Registration Certificate (RC) would be provided to the vehicle owners after the HSRP plate is installed on the vehicles. Later however, after the change of policy, when the challan or the receipt of the payment for HSRP is shown to the DTO authorities, it was good enough for the RC to be provided to the vehicle owners. The source said that the agents come with the files of many vehicle owners and after the payment of challan they take the RCs of all the owners. The
number of receipts that are generated for vehicles which are newly registered. What are the authorities doing about this massive gap?
The authorities G Plus tried to talk to many enforcement inspectors of the DTO but all of them wanted us to talk to the district enforcement officer as some were not sure if any drive against HSRP violation was conducted by the DTO. G Plus talked to the new enforcement DTO PK Ghosh, who insisted that there indeed have been drives against vehicles not installing HSRP. He said that in this financial year Rs 3 lakhs was realised in fines from drives undertaken against HSRP violations. He also said that the DTO provides RCs only after re-
ceipt of HSRP challan. As for enforcement, Kamrup Metro DTO has only 40 enforcement officers and they are working at their optimum capacity. So it was an indirect indication that manpower is not enough to check all the violations. After talking to many experts, G Plus understood that even traffic police are empowered to enforce the issue. So we talked to DCP (Traffic), Amanjeet Kaur. Kaur, talking to G Plus, said that in 2013 when she was an Additional SP in Guwahati traffic police, many such drives used to take place against people who had not installed HSRP. But this time after becoming DCP (Traffic), she is focussing on one issue at a time and at present she is working on many issues which have to be resolved and the drives are also being undertaken accordingly. She said that seat belt, drunken driving, parking violation etc. are the issues she is working on now and very soon she will start working on HSRP violation. So the transport department claims that drive against HSRP violation is on but many vehicles till now are not HSRP fitted and with the data available it is also known that people pay for HSRP only to get the RC and eventually HSRP is not installed. HSRP introduces standard formats with bold, clear and conspicuous lettering in standard letter fonts in one language only. Standard of sizes and also the fitment details on each vehicle lead to better and higher visibility with HSRP. It is supplied by authorised vendors only on the specific authority of DTO and affixed in the premises of DTO. As similar plates are not available elsewhere, the plates cannot be forged. HSRP has special retro reflective sheet of high reflec-
involved in any crime and thus nab the criminals. Despite these
Approximate number of challans generated against vehicles fitted with HSRP in last four years
Year
Chalan generated for HSRP
2013
43000
Vehicles fitted with HSRP 16858
2014
64679
44394
2015
72319
66261
2016
92738
74542
tivity which can be seen clearly even from a distance of 20 metres and which help in recognising the number details easily. Because of such technology law enforcing authorities can detect vehicles
attributes the irony remains that HSRP is still not a mandate and the authorities are still not able to enforce the scheme. rahul.chanda@g-plus.in
G PLUS FEB 18 - FEB 24, 2017
GMC in urgent need of digitisation as a vital file goes missing
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Governance
Kalyan Deb
A visit to seek information at the Building Planning & Permission Division of the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) is a nightmarish proposition given the stacks and stacks of dusty files that one might have to browse through to fish out the relevant information. A case in point is presented below where a vital file related to a High Court demolition order has purportedly gone missing
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here is no second opinion that as an organisation grows in business as well as clientele the paperwork can pile up into heaps and heaps of unorganised bundles and be stacked up in a storage unit that may be as large as a whole room. This storage often has a tendency to become unorganized and haphazard. This is not a very favourable situation as a lot of time can be wasted sorting through the paperwork for small pieces of information or records. Document digitization is the only way to minimise the stacks of files and easily convert these into storable files and folders on a computer hard disk by transforming physical information into digital information. The ‘Digitise India Platform’ speaks of the same, where the initiative would facilitate efficient delivery of services and reduce piles of paper in record rooms of offices. The government’s files and documents, which are shareable and useful to citizens, would be digitised through ‘crowd sourcing.’ However, when it comes to the most important departments of the Assam government, huge piles of files and assortment of applications are still a common sight. It would not be surprising if one or two of them go untraceably missing and to no one’s surprise, a similar incident has taken place in the Building Planning & Permission Division of the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC).
The Allegation The corporation has come under scanner as an FIR has been lodged against it as also present officials of the GMC, charging them with conspiracy to suppress records relating to irregularities in grant of building permission. In the FIR, Right to Information (RTI) activist Joydeb Das has named two IAS officers viz. Ashish Kumar Bhutani and Rajesh Prasad and as many GMC officials viz. Deepak Bezbaruah who was then the associate planner of GMC and Dilip Baishya who is currently the Upper Division Assistant (UDA) of the department. The name of one
Dhireshwar Sarma of Diha Builders has also been mentioned in the FIR. Das alleged that files pertaining to illegal construction of a building in the Christian Basti area have gone missing and no missing report was lodged with police by the GMC officials. The complainant alleged that the officials conspired to suppress records so that no harm could come to the building construction. “The accused have violated the provisions of the GMC Act, 1971 and influenced others,” the complaint said. “The FIR is about the deviation of a building that was issued the ‘no objection certificate’ (NOC) through illegitimate means. The incident dates back to 2009. But it soon came to the notice of the then GMC commissioner who had ordered the demolishing of the building. The owner of the building then made an appeal to the council body but no progress could be seen. On not getting any response the building owner moved the High Court which ordered necessary steps to be taken in order to resolve the issue,” Das mentioned to G Plus. The RTI activist also informed that the council body of GMC was dissolved in 2009 during which Ashish Kumar Bhutani was made the administrator and there was no follow-up of the High Court direction. “The case of the missing file surfaced after I filed an RTI and the department could not provide me any information. If the High Court had directed something to the department then it should have been followed. If no steps were initiated then there must be some kind of illegal understanding involved,” Das alleged. Meanwhile, police said that a case has been registered under sections 119 (public servant concealing designs to commit offence which it is his duty to prevent), 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), 120 (B) (criminal conspiracy) and 34 (common intention) of the IPC.
The accused’s version Meanwhile, on being asked
GMC Head Office | File Photo about the allegations made by the RTI activist, UDA Dilip Baishya said, “I do not understand about my involvement in the file going missing. I have presented a written application in reply to the RTI that the file came to me on 4th June 2011 and was handed over to Sabed Ali, Zonal Engineer, on 26th September the same year. So that excludes me from the allegation that I was the last one to be in possession of the file.” Similarly, the then commissioner of GMC, Rajesh Prasad, has said that he was transferred to a different post in 2008 itself whereas the file supposedly went missing in 2011. “I left the post of Commissioner of GMC in 2008 and in 2011 I had completed my tenure as Deputy Commissioner of Sonitpur and came back to Guwahati and joined as Secretary, Labour. Around the month of June 2008, I was already posted as the Deputy Commissioner of Sonitpur. As far as I remember it was in April 2008 when I had issued a show-cause notice and by June 2008 I had to go for a mandatory training for IAS officers at Mussoorie and so, I was already transferred before my arrival at Guwahati. In 2011, I was the Secretary, Labour. So, I can hardly relate to my involvement in the file going missing,” said Prasad.
The possible reasons While allegations in the FIR direct towards unethical means
of personal benefit, the sight of massive stacks of files occupying space that can be used for much more productive purposes present a sorry picture of government offices. It was also mentioned by GMC officials that managing and storing files in a proper place consumes a huge amount of time and the officers have to do that on their own. “It is very difficult to find one out of such large stack of files and I am sure that the file has not gone missing and must be in some cor-
ner of the office,” the GMC official said. Corruption or otherwise, such incidents certainly demands the urgent need for digitisation in the government offices. The move will not only make necessary documents easily accessible but also mitigate the efforts required in maintenance of files besides freeing up huge space. kalyan.deb@g-plus.in
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G PLUS FEB 18- FEB 24, 2017
Crime
Most wanted fraudster arrested again Continued from page 1 the terrace. The police thereafter somehow managed to grab him out and arrest him.
Other crimes and his modus operandi
Nilim Dutta in police custody | G Plus Photo According to the police, he used to present himself as a director of National Investigation Agency (NIA). G Plus looks into the entire incident especially in light of the fact that he was also arrested earlier by Dispur police.
The allegations According to Prasenjit Chakraborty, the owner of a flat (4B, 4th floor, River Heights Garden Apartment, Joypur, Kharguli) in April 2016, Nilim Dutta had approached him for taking his flat on rent introducing himself as an officer of National Investigation Agency (NIA). The rent was negotiated at Rs 23,000 per month and subsequently a tenancy agreement between Prasenjit and Nilim’s father, Dulal Chandra Dutta was signed on 30th April 2016. According to Prasenjit, the accused Nilim Dutta said he could not be a signatory because of restrictions from NIA. Prasenjit believed him and accepted an amount of Rs 46,000 as rent for two months. All was well till August 2016 when the owner of the flat received information that suspicious people visited the flat at unearthly hours and sometimes, people used to come asking for Nilim Dutta, his father Dulal Chandra Dutta and sister, Smita Dutta. According to the owner, when confronted, Nilim casually brushed aside the issue saying that since he is an NIA officer his sources did not meet him at office and rather met him at home sometimes. The owner said that Nilim gradually became irregular in paying the rent. When confronted again, Nilim said that being the Director of Strategic Research and Analysis Organisation, working covertly with the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) under the ministry
of defence, he was busy with the rehabilitation of the riot victims of Kokrajhar and so, his salary was not being released. Nilim also showed of a key ring of NIA which was allegedly gifted to him by the NIA as a token of appreciation for his work in Kokrajhar, Assam. Prasenjit was again convinced
was dealing with a fraudster of the highest calibre and he complained to the commissioner of police. A case was registered in Latasil Police station (case number – 34/17 under section 120(b)/406/420/34 of IPC) on 10th February and another case was registered in Jalukbari police station against Nilim for
Nilim originally hails from Jorhat and had once been caught there for theft. His head was shaved off and since then he has been sporting the bald look. about his credentials and did not pursue the matter further thinking it might disturb Nilim. Later, in November when Prasenjit again asked him the four month’s rent that was due, Nilim again tactfully evaded the matter and asked the owner to wait till December. In December the owner again asked for the rent but Nilim did not pay it. The frustrated owner thereafter disconnected the electricity thinking the discomfort might make his tenant pay the rent. On 19th December, Dulal Chandra Dutta lodged an FIR with Latasil police stating that the owner had disconnected the electricity (case number -365/2016 under section 406/420/387 and 506 of IPC. The owner lodged a counter FIR but the FIR was not registered then. The Latasil police, talking to G Plus, said that at that time the police was investigating the first FIR and interestingly, Nilim Dutta had then called the Latasil OC identifying himself as the director of NIA and requesting help as his old father was facing problems without electricity. The OC believed Nilim for a while but further investigations revealed that Nilim was a fraud. It was then that the owner realised that he
allegedly posting objectionable remarks against Gauhati University on social media.
The arrest The police, since then, made a number of attempts to arrest Nilim but he kept evading arrest. Finally on 13th February he was arrested by a joint team of Jalukbari and Latasil police from his apartment. The Latasil police sources, talking to G Plus, said that the arrest was not an easy task. Apparently, when the police team reached the apartment, Nilim Dutta started pelting stones from the fourth floor apartment injuring two police personnel in the process. A separate case in this connection has been registered in Latasil Police station. The police then formed two teams - one went up to his apartment and the other waited below the apartment. Reaching the apartment, they failed to find Nilim there. Having searched the entire flat, some police personnel also went up to the terrace. There was no sign of him there either. The police team below had to throw searchlights on the entire building and the light picked up Nilim Dutta holed up behind a railing constructed on
In 2013, Nilim was arrested after two different FIRs were lodged with the police - one by an individual and the other by a hotel - both complaining that he had duped them. Even on that occasion, police had said that he would have managed a clean escape had he not hurt himself in both his legs while jumping out from the first-floor balcony when the police raided the flat which he had taken on rent. According to Latasil police there are five cases of fraud against Nilim Dutta in Dispur police. The manager of Hotel Nivedan had filed an FIR against Nilim Dutta for duping them. Arun Baruah, Rajiv Varma (proprieter of Delhi Cloth House, Fancy Bazar) and Amy Yusuf had also filed complaints against Dutta for duping them. Talking about his modus operandi, the Latasil police said that Nilim Dutta did not have any other source of income and he used to only dupe people by posing as a big shot or a high-level officer. He used to stay in expensive hotels posing as an NIA officer or a RAW agent and never used to pay them. The police said that Nilim used to hire expensive cars from transport agencies on contract basis for a few months and thereafter keep postponing the date of payment. Many of his cheques also bounced. According to police, Nilim used to promise jobs to unemployed youths of wealthy families and dupe them off money. He used to rent houses and initially was prompt in paying the rent. But after a few months he would turn defaulter and dared the house owners to go to court. The police also said that Nilim originally hails from Jorhat and had once been caught there for theft. His head was shaved off and since then he has been sporting the bald look. According to police, Nilim has an extraordinary personality and is a convincing conversationalist which was basically his weapon to dupe people. Police added that Nilim is very intelligent and used to even write for many local and national publications earlier. As the Gauhati University Vice Chancellor had told G Plus, Nilim had claimed that he was the local guardian of the alleged IIT molestation case victim and Nilim had taken custody of the girl after the incident. The Latasil police said that the victim was present at
his apartment at the time of his arrest. After the alleged molestation incident Nilim had made many unsavoury comments against Gauhati University as a result of which a case was registered in Jalukbari police station. Investigation is go-
ing on. Nilim meanwhile has been sent to judicial custody but police had tried to get his custody for 7 days to elicit some more information about other fraudulent activities carried out by him. Prasenjit has also informed the NIA officials about the incident. rahul.chanda@g-plus.in
G PLUS FEB 18 - FEB 24, 2017
5
Crime
Ghy cops bust gang of ATM fraudsters Rahul Chanda
With the cyber crime graph showing upward trends in the city and the state, the Paltan Bazar police teaming up with the crime branch arrested ATM fraudsters who had cloned a number of ATM cards across the state looting huge amounts of money
Mugshot of Shariful Islam (L), evidence recovered (R)
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yber crime, according to the Assam Police DGP Mukesh Sahay, is on the rise in the state and is being committed more than other crimes. Recently, the city police busted a massive nexus of cyber criminals who forge people’s ATM cards and withdraw money from their accounts besides using the cards for shopping at various places. Definitely a novelty as a criminal act, what is the modus operandi and who all are involved? How many people have been arrested in the case? How did police manage to nab the culprits? G Plus looks into the entire incident.
The case On 17th January last, a lady named Minu Maya Gohain lodged an FIR at Paltan Bazar police station stating that some miscreants had withdrawn a huge amount of money from her savings account at SBI South Guwahati branch. She also informed her bank about the incident and blocked the ATM card. She further informed the police that she was in North Lakhimpur between 11th January and 15th January, 2017. A case (case number -60/17 under section 420 IPC read with sec 66 IT Act) was registered in Paltan Bazar police station. Accordingly, the city police crime branch got involved
with the Paltan Bazar police to crack the case.
The action The crime branch team along with Paltan Bazar police took up the matter and discussed the case with SBI officials and thereafter clues were collected. Technical
analysis of the matter by the city police led to the apprehension of three accused persons namely Shariful Islam alias Shamim (mastermind), Jiaur and Saddam from flat number CIII of Seventh Heaven apartment located near Sarusajai Stadium. All were residents of Howly, Barpeta. While searching the apartment one small card reader, one writer (machine used to transfer data to blank magnetic strips on cards), two laptops, 25 magnetic strip cards which they cloned as ATM cards of victims and thereafter used it for shopping and withdrawal of money from ATMs, mobile handsets and other valuable items purchased by the accused. The cloned ATM cards used to withdraw the victims’ money and the laptop purchased by the accused from Big Bazaar were also recovered. So what was the modus operandi?
Modus operandi According to sources in the crime branch, the gang of criminals usually wait outside various ATMs – mainly ones which are out of order for reasons such as link failure or money exhaustion. Unaware people enter such ATM booths and are unable to withdraw money. The miscreants then, on the pretext of helping them, enter the booths and cleverly swipe the targeted person’s ATM card with their card reader thereby stealing the data from the debit card. Thereafter, they clone another magnetic striped card and prepare a newly formed debit card with the writer which is thereafter used for withdrawing money and making purchases. The required PIN information is collected by peeking over the shoulder while the victim tries to withdraw money from the ATM. The arrested people were thoroughly interrogated and it was known by the police that they had duplicated several ATM cards with the same method all across the state.
The awareness The police have again warned that given this modus operandi people should remember never
to hand over their ATM cards to unknown people for whatever reason. During investigation it came to light that this gang of criminals were people of suspicious and doubtful character right from the initial stage and this was noticed by the residents of Seventh Heaven apartment. But neither the owner nor the other residents of the apartment informed the local police station. The police have urged that while renting out the flats, rooms etc., utmost precaution should be taken in verification of the potential tenants’ character and antecedents. The PIN numbers of the ATM cards should be changed at regular intervals. The police said that in ATMs instead of asking help from strangers, a specific helpline number mentioned in the booth by the bank authorities should be utilised to clear doubts. The police also said that while shopping the PIN number should be entered as discreetly as possible because malls have CCTV cameras installed. So it should be
ensured that the PIN is not captured by CCTV cameras of the shopping malls. The criminals are now in judicial custody and quite a few police stations are questioning them as there have been several such cases of ATM fraud registered with various police stations. The state has seen a sharp rise in such crimes in recent years with the growing popularity of social networking sites and online financial transactions. A cyber crime specialist, talking to G Plus, said that unless the criminal has any kind of digital information, it is difficult for them to commit a crime, but such information can be gathered if people are careless or indiscreet with their digital information. So a big nexus of cyber criminals have been nabbed but people need to be vigilant. If criminals cannot get hold of digital information, cyber crime is not possible. rahul.chanda@g-plus.in
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G PLUS FEB 18- FEB 24, 2017
In The News
Sops unveiled for revival of Assamese film industry
Juthika Baruah
Establishing cinema projection halls in places where there is scope of screening regional films is vital for the revival of the Assamese film industry
Collage of recently released Assamese moveie posters
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o revive the Assamese film industry, state finance minister Himanta Biswa Sarma proposed a slew of incentives in the state budget for 2017-18 which includes a proposal to hold an annual international film festival on the scale and lines of Goa, Kolkata and Thiruvanthapuram. Screening of Assamese films in cinema halls and the concern for quality of such films have always been major issues in the state and now that the government has announced the incentives for improving the scenario of Assamese film industry questions arise whether the industry will ever be able to resurrect itself. “The state government’s initiative to revive the Assamese film industry is a welcome move but to run a regional film, more cinema halls are required in the state. Whether a film becomes a hit or a flop is a different chapter altogether but necessity of halls is very important. There are many places where there is not a single hall and in many places only B grade films are being screened which is a pathetic scenario,” said movie director Himangshu Prasad Das while speaking to G Plus. Himangshu said that there are not more than 80 halls in the state and Assamese films are released in only a fraction of these halls. Some places which are deemed as conducive and responsive to Assamese films have no halls at all. “Recent films like Gaane Ki Aane, Doordarshan etc. were hits but the collections do not cover even half the production cost. I released my film Shakira Ahibo Bokul Tolor Bihuloi in 46 halls but unfortunately the film had to be removed as the Bol-
lywood movies ‘Raees’ and ‘Kabil’ were released after 3 days. I had released my film in the same week as that of the Hritik Roshan and Shah Rukh Khan starrers intentionally as I wanted to face the challenge. There was an era when there was only one star but now there are a number of them and a single film from them earns Rs. 100 crores,” said Himagshu. He further said that out of the 48 Fridays in a year, 24 Fridays are meaningless as films which are released during the exam season or in the monsoon do not run in the halls as people cannot come to watch films. “Therefore, we cannot wait for our films to get released
that the regional films do not run and the hall owners do not screen the films at prime time. They give only one show - the afternoon show - for which most working people can’t go. The producers are not at all benefitted from their productions. Till 2009 the producers got a mere 80 paisa per ticket worth Rs. 100. With the amendment of the new bill the government has balanced the system against the earlier Act,” said Das. “There is a general criticism that modern cinema halls like multiplexes are not very keen to screen Assamese or regional films. In order to encourage exhibition of local films, I propose to grant 50% enter-
“The state government’s initiative to revive the Assamese film industry is a welcome move but to run a regional film, more cinema halls are required in the state,” film director Himangshu Prasad Das only after the Bollywood films are removed. It is a challenge for us to release on the same date as a Bollywood film. Today we have gone into loss but we can’t accept that happening in the future and we have to make sure that regional films be screened and given first preference,” added Himangshu. Moreover, director Bani Das, while speaking to G Plus, said that there are many factors for which the Assamese film industry is not growing. But now that the government has passed the bill the industry will revive with a new dimension. “It is because of lack of halls
tainment tax exemption,” Sarma said in his budget speech. The tax rebate will be available for a period of three years to permanent multiplexes which have commenced or will commence their commercial operations during specified period, he added. “There is, however, a condition. They have to give a written undertaking to the effect that they will show Assamese or regional films on one of the screens, if such Assamese or regional film is available for screening at a particular point of time,” Sarma said while presenting the budget estimates.
Besides, he proposed to give a subsidy of Rs 50 lakhs for reopening of closed cinema halls and Rs 25 lakhs for renovation of the existing and functional cinema halls in order to help the film industry of the state. “I also propose a subsidy of 25% of the capital cost in case of establishment of new cinema halls. The (cultural) department will soon issue detailed guidelines in this regard,” the minister said. In order to showcase world cinema in Assam, Sarma proposed to hold an International Film Festival annually in Guwahati on the lines and scale of major global film fests like Goa (IFFI), Kolkata (KIFF), Thiruvanthapuram (IFFK) and Mumbai (MAMI). “Assam has the great tradition of making films by eminent film makers like Rup Kunwar Jyoti Prasad Agarwala, Bhabendra Nath Saikia and others. For this (film festival), I am proposing a sum of Rs 1 crore. We would also like to preserve Chitraban Film Studio at Bholaguri Tea Estate set up by Rup Konwar Jyoti
Prasad Agarwala,” he added. For the theatre field, Sarma announced to establish one state school of drama on the lines of National School of Drama for preserving theatrical traditions and he proposed to allocate Rs 2 crores for starting the work of this cultural training institution. juthika.baruah@g-plus.in
G PLUS FEB 18 - FEB 24, 2017
Buzz
Blundering ‘vigilante’ arrested, jailed and bailed police arrested him from Mukesh Hyundai in Ganeshguri where he works. The police official said that he was forwarded to the court and the court sent him to judicial custody.
Confirmation
Screenshot of Partha P Boruah’s live Facebook video
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-year-old Partha Pratim Boruah went ‘live’ on Facebook accusing the police of harassing him on the pretext of checking his vehicle’s documents in front of Shraddhanjali Kanan. According to him, the junior level police personnel who were on the job are not authorised to do so in the absence of a senior level officer. The police later, taking suo moto cognizance, registered a case and arrested Partha who was forwarded to court and the court sent him to judicial custody. Now what exactly happened and why did the police register a case? G Plus looks into the incident.
The incident According to a Geetanagar police official, the police always undertake security checking near Shradanjali Knan as there are many cases of vehicle theft reported in that area and so, on 12th February, a checking team was going through the motions there. The police said that there have been instances when people on bikes cannot furnish their documents saying that they had left those at home. They are thereafter asked to go home and fetch the documents
and they never return; eventually it is found that the vehicle is a stolen one. So, from time to time, security checking keeps happening and the officer said that the junior level police personnel have the right to stop the vehicles and ask to see the license as it confirms the identity of the person driving the vehicle as also that of the vehicle owner. The police said that on 12th February the routine checking was going on and Partha’s bike was stopped. But initially he did not stop at the spot he was asked to. The police said that after he stopped, his bike’s key was taken away by one of the constables so that he doesn’t move away and he was asked to just show his licence. But according to the police he created a scene and started making a video accusing the police of harassing him and even abused the police. The police said that he was inciting other people there too against the police obstructing the on-duty police personnel in their work. So the Geetanagar police official said that a suo moto case was registered against him (case number – 46/17 under section 294/353 of IPC), where one is a bailable section (294) and other is a non-bailable section (353). Later,
100 kg of marijuana seized at Ghy Railway Station G Plus News
A
pproximately 100 kg of marijuana was seized from the water tank of Kamrup Express, at Guwahati Railway Station, on Thursday. The marijuana was seized during the regular checking hours at the Railway Station by the Railway Security Force. Reportedly, the seized marijuana would cost above Rs 7 lakh.
Trying to confirm if the junior level police personnel can check the license and other documents G Plus talked to the commissioner of police Hiren Nath who said that there are no issues when it comes to document checking and levying fines as it was a simple security exercise were the police personnel were checking the identity. This is nothing illegal. He said, “He (Par-
tha) was absolutely wrong as firstly he was not wearing a helmet. When the police tried to stop him he did not stop and later he recorded a video abusing the police using words which cannot be used.” He said that Partha is not a juvenile and he is a 23-year-old working man and whatever he has done is a criminal activity as he did not abide by law. Instead, he was inciting people to go against the law. He also said that there was an SI level officer present at the site who was busy checking other vehicles and if there was a requirement of fining anyone he would have fined. He also said that because he was at fault the court sent him to judicial
Rahul Chanda custody. G Plus also talked to Partha’s father Ajit Boruah who is also a police officer and he said that raising voice is everyone’s right. He said that the mistake was from both Partha and the police. He did not talk much but said that Partha got bail on 17th February and will be out of jail on 18th February. Partha’s close friend Shashanka Deka, talking to G Plus, said that Partha did the right thing but in a wrong way. So Partha Pratim Boruah will be out of jail but the question remains whether whatever he did was right or wrong. rahul.chanda@g-plus.in
Attention !! attention!! GST Enrollment for Existing Dealers Last Date Extended up to 28th February, 2017 1) Login to www.tax.assam.gov.in for obtaining GST Provisional id & Password for enrollment under GST. For detail refer to Circular no. 16/2016 dated 23-11-2016 available on the said website. 2) How to obtain GST Provisional id & Password: I. II. III.
7
Dealers having valid email id and mobile number would get the details through SMS alert or email. Dealers already having access to e-services would get the details in www.tax.assam.gov.in after login. Remaining dealers can obtain details from the Jurisdictional Unit office by submitting the prescribed application as per Circular No. 16/2016.
3) For enrollment on GST Portal www.gst.gov.in, dealers have the option to submit information and upload documents with or without eSign / DSC. In cases, where eSign / DSC is not used, dealers can simply submit information by clicking "Submit" button and the application will be saved as draft. However, they will be required to sign their application with eSign or DSC at a later date. 4) Held Desk has been created in all unit offices / GST Cell at Apex Office for assistance of GST related work. In addition, the Help Desk will facilitate the dealer in changing their user id and password in GST portal and complete the migration process.
Commissioner of Taxes, Assam Guwahati-6 ___________________________________________________________________________
For any clarification, please contact : Commissioner of Taxes, Assam, Kar Bhawan, G.S. Road, Dispur, Guwahati-781006. Phone : 0361-2232513, 0361-2232670.
Janasanyog/2306/16
8
G PLUS FEB 18- FEB 24, 2017
Ward Watch
Kalyan Deb
Panbazar book business hit hard by the govt freebies
The government’s move to provide free textbooks to 9th and 10th standard students is set to take a toll on the publishing business based at Panbazar
View of Jaswanta Road and its book shops in Panbazaar | G Plus Photo
T
hose born in the late 1980s and early 1990s are living testimony to the enormous transition that has occurred in the last few decades, be it in the form of technology, development, education or communication. Those born during the era have perceived the city by its significant development in the past few years. Parts of the city have developed as commercial hubs, some as foodies’ paradise, many are educational hubs while others have turned into semi-residential areas from their earlier situation of being pure residential ones. Among the lot, there is the education hub of Panbazar with its bustling streets filled with eateries, students and other commercial establishments. But it is the numerous bookshops which add to its unique environment; the area is also a hub for printing and publication. The yesteryears The formation of the current avatar of Panbazar dates way back to the 1940s when the first publishing houses of undivided northeast were established in the area. Although the inception of ‘Lawyers’ Book Stall’ originates to the 1920s, the formal establishment of the book store cum publishing house took place in 1944. It was founded by Bichitra Narayan Dutta Baruah who also happened to be a lawyer. The nomenclature ‘Lawyers’ Book Stall’ thus holds relevant signifi-
cance. It was founded with the idea of giving new direction to the publishing industry of those times and the business has now been passed on to the family’s third generation. It is also the first publishing house of the northeast. With several roads in the area interlocked in a grid pattern that make Panbazar pretty much a planned locality, Jaswanta Road stands out of the lot as the book store lane due to the sheer number of book shops on it. Jaswanta Road was initially a hub of textbook sellers and the shops stocked and sold books pertaining to school and college syllabi. However, while school and college books continue to be available on Jaswanta Road, a few stores selling student accessories also dot the lane. Further, Jaswanta Road also has a couple of stores selling best-sellers, novels and travel books making it the most complete book hub of Guwahati. One of the busiest commercial hubs of the city today, Panbazar back in “those” days was more of a residential area. It was during the 1960s that book shops and publishing houses started being established one after the other. “Our shop was established in 1967 while the first one was Lawyers’ Book Stall. There were a few others that were already in existence since a long time like Book Land and New Book Stall along with
two or three others in the area. I was told about this by my grandfather. The stretch of Jaswanta Road was a residential area and had the staff quarters of Lawyers’ Book Stall. There were a few other commercial establishments but most of the book shops are newer,” said Anupam Dutta of Mani Manik Prakash. It was also learnt that the transformation set in from late 1960s as several other shops were gradually established. Over the years the area came to have more than 100 book stores adding huge significance and importance to the area. The trade Alongside the transformation of the area the shops and publishing houses started publishing textbooks for government schools. Since the Textbook Corporation was not in existence the private publishing houses used to provide books to the schools back in the 1960s. There was Dutta Baruah & Co. in Guwahati who were the oldest players and they were followed by Borkotoky & Co. in Jorhat. A major change took place with the incorporation of Assam State Text Book Production and Publication Corporation on 30th March 1972 when the textbooks were produced by the state government. “The move by the government hit the publication business in a massive way. During the time when the government did not provide or
publish textbooks, the publishing business was going very well. Many also came up with ideas of introducing books for handwriting exercises, drawing books and other such interactive and engagement books. But there was another blow waiting to hit the business. The introduction of Sarba Siksha Abhijan’s free textbook provisioning for students of upper primary classes hit the publishing business even more badly,” Dutta said. Since the late 1970s many of the publishing houses opted to provide books for higher education syllabi, i.e. from higher secondary upwards. Affects of free text book distribution The recent move of the state government, where free textbooks will be given to students of 9th and 10th standard from the academic year 2017-18, has turned out as a massive blow to those dealing in textbooks for school students. As part of the scheme, students will get free textbooks within 25th December of every year as new sessions in Assam begin from 1st January. “We have been earning our livelihood by selling textbooks all these years. My shop was established in 1986 and since then there has never been a time when the sale of books have gone down on such a mammoth scale. We used to make sales worth Rs 60,000 to 70,000 per month in the past years but this year we have hardly been able to touch Rs 10,000. At the moment, to all appearances, it seems better to opt for some other business,” said Romoni Das of Friends Book Stall. “What we understand from the budget session is that the government will provide free textbooks to students of 9th and 10th standard from the next year. If such a move takes place, we will have no place to go,” said another book seller of the area who echoed the views of Romoni Das. It was also mentioned that books for the higher secondary syllabi are still demand; books authored by Nagpal Chakrabarty, Dilip Baruah and several others are still opted for by students. That is a saving grace for the publishing business of Panbazar, but just for kalyan.deb@g-plus.in the moment.
What the
Tweet!?
Kalyan Deb
ISRO successfully launched 104 satellites into space and everyone is ecstatic! Narendra Modi @narendra-
modi Congratulations to @isro for the successful launch of PSLV-C37 and CARTOSAT satellite together with 103 nano satellites! Right is Might @GauravSingal Real winner in #isro launch is @DDNational streaming live in California offices of @planetlabs who own 88 satellites Elon Musk @elonmusk Yeah, awesome achievement by ISRO. Very impressive! Sadhguru @SadhguruJV Incredible #ISRO. Congratulations. Significant signs of a rising Nation. -Sg Virender Sehwag @virender-
sehwag Ek hi baar mein poore Ek Sau Chaar. Congratulations #ISRO for launching a record 104 satellites in a single mission.
#ProudIndian Sri Sri Ravi Shankar @SriSri My heartfelt congratulations to @isro for the extraordinary feat of launching the PSLV-C37 carrying 104 satellites. Chetan Bhagat @chetan_
bhagat ISRO is like an Uber for satellites. #welldone #isro Sorabh Pant @hankypanty We’ve seen enough sports inspiration films. Would love to see one on #ISRO. Inspire young scientists. Hard to find better role models. Riteish Deshmukh @Riteishd PAST: Transporting the rocket assembly by bullock carts. TODAY: Launching 140 satellites at one go. #ISRO we are so so proud of you #Salute
G PLUS FEB 18 - FEB 24, 2017
9
Health
Growth of nursing homes lessens the importance of dispensaries
Juthika Baruah
Dispensaries liberally located in the various localities of city continue to provide early and inexpensive treatment but the mushroom growth of nursing homes in the city has brought down its importance The dispensaries under the Joint Directorateof Health Services, Kamrup (M):
D
Name of Dispensaries
Place
1
District Hospital Sonapur
Sonapur
2
Sonapur BHPC
Sonapur
3
Khetri CHC
Khetri
4 5
Hatibagara PHC Nortap PHC
Panikhaiti Sonapur
6
Maloibari PHC
Sonapur
7
Hahara PHC
Sonapur
8
Panikhaiti PHC
Panikhaiti
9
Kamarpur PHC
Sonapur
10
Capital State Dispensary
Dispur Last Gate
11
Khanapara
14
Khanapara State Dispensary East Guwahati State Dispensary West Guwahati State Dispensary Kamakhya State Dispensary
15
Lakhara State Dispensary
Lakhara
16
Bhetapara USD
Bhetapara
17
Satgaon USD
Satgaon
18
Garigaon USD
Satgaon
19
Lalganesh USD
Lalganesh
20
New Guwahati USD
Noonmati
21
Pandu Maligaon USD
Pandu Dispur
12
A dispensary in the city | G Plus Photo ispensaries play an important role but due to the mushroom growth of the private nursing homes in the city the importance of dispensaries stands undermined today. However, the economically weaker sections of the society are still dependent on dispensaries as a first destination of medical treatment. G Plus felt it would be useful to provide some details of the existing dispensaries in and around Guwahati. Speaking to G Plus, Joint Director of Health Services, Kamrup (M), Dr. Ganesh Saikia said, “The dispensaries consist of one permanent doctor, one laboratory technician, one nurse, a fourth grade employee and a pharmacist. Other than these, National Health Mission (NHM) provides doctors and nurses on contractual basis. The importance of dispensaries is more in other districts than in the city as there are many private nursing homes.” Dr. Saikia said that the medicines are brought from the central scheme and these are bought as per the requirement of the dispensaries. “The drugs are bought based on Essential Drug List (EDL) and there are 400 medicines in the EDL. The fund for the medicines comes from Rugi Kalyan Samiti (RKS) through NRHM. In the dispensaries, pregnant women and children up to one month of age are provided with absolutely free treatment. There is another scheme Navajot Sishu Suraksha Karyakram (NSSK) under which children and mothers are treated for free.”
Sl. No
13 Dr. Saikia further informed that the health department has also launched Rashtriya Sashthya Vima Yojana (RSVY) for the benefit of the BPL families. “Five members of a family will get an
as secondary level referral centre for public health institutions such as sub-divisional hospitals, CHCs, PHCs and sub-centres. District hospitals are expected to provide consultation services and special-
“The dispensaries consist of one permanent doctor, one laboratory technician, one nurse, a fourth grade employee and a pharmacist. Other than these, National Health Mission (NHM) provides doctors and nurses on contractual basis,” Dr. Ganesh Saikia, Joint Director of Health Services, Kamrup (M) insurance of Rs. 30,000 yearly. The members will have to give only Rs. 30 to the government on which a card will be provided to them and the card can be used in every government hospital for treatment where they will get Rs. 30,000 from the government,” Dr. Saikia stated. Another scheme which was launched by the state government is Atal Amrit Abhijan where a person who has an income of less than Rs. 5 lakhs annually will get up to Rs. 2 lakhs for the treatment of cardiac surgery, neurological surgery, burn cases, medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology and neonatology. The facility survey for district hospital was conducted by Advent Healthcare Group prior to the survey for PHCs and sub-centres and it covered 19 districts. The districts for which data is not available include Dibrugarh, Barpeta, Bongaigaon, Kamrup Rural and Kamrup Metro. District hospitals function
ist services in the field of medicine, surgery, obstetrics & gynaecology, paediatrics, ophthalmology and ENT. They also need to support the people in emergencies (accidents) or other critical care services, OPD
Chandmari Santipur Kamakhya
22
Janata Bhawan MU
23
M & CW Hospital
Dhirenpara
24
Kharghuli PHC
Kharghuli
25
Odalbakra PHC
Odalbakra
26
Notboma PHC
Hatigaon
27
Pandu PHC
Pandu
28
Garigaon SC
Garigaon
29
Tetelia SC
Tetelia
30
Maloibari MPHC
Sonapur
31
Chandrapur SC
Chandrapur
32
Moinakhurung SC
Pamohi
33
Pub Boragaon SC
34
Dimoria SD
35
Digaru SD
Boragaon Boundary between Morigaon & Kamrup (M) Sonapur
36
Khetri SD
Khetri
37
Tamulikuchi SD
Near Byrnihat
services, orthopaedics, radiology, dental care and public health management. The survey shows that District Hospitals in Assam have well-equipped facilities. Most of the hospitals have the necessary manpower and infrastructure to provide the desired services, which can be further improved if they are equipped with required equipment and instruments. The availability of drugs under RCH programme such as Drug Kit A and Drug Kit B for sub-centre was adequate in only 19.6 and 18.2 percent of the centres, respective-
ly. The availability of prophylactic drugs is very poor. Vitamin A is available in 8.8 percent of the centres, while IFA tablets (large & small) are available in only 10.1 percent of the centres. None of the BPHCs in 13 districts reported availability of prophylactic drugs. In contrast to the prophylactic drugs, contraceptives have better availability. OCP is available in 83.8 percent of the centres, Copper T is available in 77.7 percent of the centres and condom is available in 79.7 percent of the centres. juthika.baruah@g-plus.in
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G PLUS FEB 18- FEB 24, 2017
Snippets
North East Style Awards, 2017 to be held in city
G Plus News
T
he North East Style magazine will have its first season of North East Style Awards at Shilpgram, Guwahati on 26th February, 2017. The show will have categories of awards in fashion, fine arts and visual arts. Addressing the press meet at Guwahati Press Club, the North East Style Team started their proceedings along with MD of Geogemms Genuine Pvt Ltd, Mr Gopal Karmakar.
On this note Dibyarup Purkayastha, Founder & Editor-in-Chief of North East Style Magazine said, “I always felt that northeast is the fashion hub of the country. The kind of passion people have about fashion here, you seldom see anywhere else.” Debarupa Bhattacharjee, Executive Editor of North East Style Magazine said, “This is the first time we are doing something like this and it was high time
someone actually did it because everyone who is doing good work feels great to get awards along with rewards of course. In our region there are some people who are doing amazing work related to fashion but they don’t get the kind of recognition they deserve. We hope that the North East Style Awards will benefit people like these and the industry as a whole, of which we are a small part.” Gopal Karmakar, MD of Geogemms Genuine Pvt Ltd said, “It’s for the first time that something like this is going to happen in North East Fashion Industry. I feel honoured to be part of it and congratulate the North East Style Team that being such a young bunch of people doing such an event. I also congratulate all the nominees for the respective awards categories for their achievement and may they work even better in future to influence the young talents of coming days.”
Receipts issued by city police to contain both receipt and book nos
G Plus News
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he State Chief Information Commissioner, Assam has directed the Police Commissioner to ensure that the receipt issued by city police should contain both receipt and book numbers after hearing an appeal where Rs. 500/- was realized from one Shri Bipin Chandra Thakuria by Guwahati City Police as fine vide receipt no. 59555444 dated 6.6.16 issued by Inspector of Police (Traffic), Chandmari Region. Shri Thakuria sought for a copy of the treasury challan from the SPIO of Commissionerate of Police through which the amount paid by him was deposited. The SPIO furnished a copy of the treasury challan and informed him that the amount collected from Shri Thakuria was deposited into the
treasury vide challan No. 6/13303 dated 30.06.16 including the amount collected from some other persons through receipt book No. 59556. The receipt no. 59555444 issued by the Inspector of Police (Traffic), Chandmari Region to Shri Thakuria did not contain the book number. He therefore preferred
an appeal before the First Appellate Authority to furnish him the copies of all pages of receipt book no. 59556. Being aggrieved with the order of the first Appellate Au-
thority, Shri Thakuria preferred second Appeal before the Assam Information Commission. By an order dated 2nd February, 2017, the Chief Information Commissioner, Assam Shri Himangshu Sekhar Das directed the SPIO of the Commissionerate of Police to allow Shri Thakuria to inspect all the pages of the receipt book no. 59556 to confirm for himself that the receipt issued to him was from this receipt book as informed by the SPIO. The State Chief information Commissioner, further, directed the Commissioner of Police, Guwahati city to ensure that the book number is invariably mentioned on the receipts and the space provided for it in the receipt is not left blank.
Nature Awareness Camp held at Pobitora
G Plus News
N
ature First Foundation, a private funding agency, organized a ‘Nature and Wildlife Awareness’ programme for school children of classes 6, 7 and 8 at Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary on 12th February 2017. Students from three schools situated on the outskirts of the city, namely, Moinakhurong ME School, Parijat Academy and Chakardeo Deshabhakta Tarun Ram Phukan Madhyamik Vidyalay participated in the day-long programme. This included a jeep safari of the sanctuary followed by a brief orientation talk for the benefit of the students highlighting the basic features of Pobitora and the birds
and animals found in the forest by Range Officer Ashok Das. Certificates were distributed to the participants of the event. As part of the awareness camp another NFF initiative was the holding of an essay writing competition among students of the schools in which a large number of students participated. Nature First Foundation is a non-profit making agency aimed at promoting conservation of forests, preservation of wildlife and giving logistical support to those individuals, groups or NGOs who are involved in environmental issues both in activism as well as creating awareness through the medium of print, television and films.
16 students from Assam in Yoga Olympiad 2017
G Plus News
T
he Elementary Education Department, Govt of Assam and the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) has initiated steps to send 16 school students from the state to the Yoga Olympiad 2017 at the national level to be held in the month of June, at New Delhi. The motive of the State Govt behind the initiative is to provide each student with the understanding of yogic practice for developing healthy habits and lifestyle.
The activity will take place in 145 educational blocks of the state on 28th February, whereas the other two activities namely, the Olympiad at the district and state level will be conducted to select students for participating in the Olympiad at the national level. The main objective of such Olympiads is to develop physical, emotional and mental health in students to lead a disciplined life to dedicate their services towards peace, and harmony in the universe.
Weather report for the week Guwahati
SUN
MON
TUE
WED
THU
FRI
Sunny
Partly Cloudy
Sunny
Sunny
Sunny
Sunny
31° / 19° C
27° / 19° C
28° / 18° C
30° / 18° C
SATURDAY Sunny
31° / 17° C
30° / 16° Cjuthika.baruah@g-plus.in 29° / 16° C
G PLUS FEB 18 - FEB 24, 2017
11
Snippets
Cancer Hospital in GMCH US agrees to review Travel Advisory against NE inaugurated G Plus News
Union Minister for Health JP Nadda inaugurating the Cancer Hospital in presence of CM Sarbananda Sonowal and State Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma
U
nion Minister of Health and Chief Minister of Assam Sarbananda Sonowal on Friday inaugurated the 200 bedded Cancer Hospital in Guwahati Medical College. Sonowal said that the economically weaker cancer patients can now avail quality treatment in the state with the newly inaugurated hospital. Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare J.P. Nadda said that the Cancer Hospital would be accorded the status of a State Cancer Institute and the Central Government provide Rs 120 crores to the hospital which
would be in addition to Rs 90 crores already earmarked for the institute. Chief Minister Sonowal and Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare J.P. Nadda on Friday also electronically unveiled the AMRIT Pharmacies in the five Medical Colleges of the state at a function held in the GMCH Auditorium in the city. Saying that setting up of the AIIMS in Guwahati would be a huge fillip to the healthcare scenario of the state as well as the region Nadda said that rupees Rs 1000 crore has already been earmarked for the AIIMS.
Guwahati boy bags guitar scholarship in USA
G Plus News
T
he Donald Trump Administration may soon change the way the US Government perceives Assam as a destination to visit from a tourist’s perspective. Since April 2015, the US government categorized Assam and other NE States as areas disturbed by frequent incidents of violence by ‘ethnic insurgent groups’ and issued travel advisories to its citizens to avoid travel by train at night, travel outside major cities at night, and crowds. Soon after taking charge of the department, Himanta Biswa Sarma wrote to the US Government seeking a review of the travel advisory. The minister wrote to the US Ambassador to India, Mr. Richard Verma who has agreed to review the status accorded to Assam and the other NE States. The US government employ-
B
within the campus.” Bhargav prefers to toil himself in divergent genres like blues, metal, funk, etc. Being a big fan of progressive rock, he aspires to play and introduce new techniques in this particular genre. After MI, Bhargav aspires to tour the world playing his own music and bring good name to the state.
ees are also prohibited from travelling to the region without the permission from the US consulate general in Kolkata. Sarma has also asked UK and Australia to immediately lift their adverse travel advisories issued to citizens, asking them to avoid vis-
iting Assam. The minister has taken special onus to boost the inflow of tourists to the State in recent times including the launch of the Awesome Assam campaign with global icon, Priyanka Chopra. The US government’s definition of a travel warning: We issue a Travel Warning when we want you to consider very carefully whether you should go to a country at all. Examples of reasons for issuing a Travel Warning might include unstable government, civil war, ongoing intense crime or violence, or frequent terrorist attacks. We want you to know the risks of travelling to these places and to strongly consider not going to them at all. Travel Warnings remain in place until the situation changes; some have been in effect for years.
GOVT. OF ASSAM OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDING ENGINEER, P.W.D.GUWAHATI ELECTRCAL CIRCLE. FANCY BAZAR, GUWAHATI-1. SHORT TENDER NOTICE.
Ref. No T-1/SE/EL/Pt-I/2016 -2017/4208
Date: 15/02/2017.
Sealed Tenders in prescribed form affixing non-refundable court fee stamps of Rs:-8.25 (Rupees Eight and Paise Twenty Five)only subsequently to be drawn-up in printed "F-2" form with validity period of 180 (One Hundred & Eighty) days from the date of receipt of Tenders are invited from the A.P.W.D. Class - II and Class - I (A,B & C) Electrical contractors having valid Registration under A.P.W.D.(Building),Assam for the Year 2016 - 2017 and having valid supervisor licence for parts 1, 2,3. 4,5(a),(b),6,7(a),(b), 9(a) from the Secretary Licensing Board. Assam for the following Electrification works during the year 2016 - 17.
SL NO
Name of the Work.
Approx. Value of Work.
Security Money
1
2 RENOVATION OF RCC BUILDING OF DISTRICT & SESSION JUDGE COURT (CONSTRUCTION OF 2 (TWO) NOS. OF COURTS IN ASSAM STATE LEGAL SERVICE AUTHORITY AND MEDIATION CENTRE AT PANBAZAR, GUWAHATI (PROVIDING INTERNAL ELECTRIFICATION)
3
4
1
hargav Choudhury of Guwahati has bagged the Prestigious Al Bruno Memorial Country Guitar Scholarship at the Musicians Institute, LA, USA. Expressing his happiness, Bhargav said, “I feel really blessed and honoured getting this scholarship. MI has the best guitar program in the world. The instructors are the excellent ones and one can avail great resource
G Plus News
Rs. 9,16,377.00.
For General Category, Rs. 18,328.00. For SC/ST/0 BC/ MOBC Category, Rs. 9,164.00.
Cost of Tender Document (Non refundable) 5
Rs. 500.00.
Time of completio n
Eligibilit y
6
7
15 (Fifteen) . Days
CLASS II CLASS - I ( A, B,C)
2. Application along with all related papers for issue of Tender Documents may be submitted to the office of the undersigned on 22-02-2017 during office Hours along with current IPO as mentioned above duly pledged in favour of Ex.Engineer, P.W.D., Guwahati Electrical Division, Chandmari, Guwahati - 3
(M Choudhury) Superintending Engineer, PWD Guwahati Electrical Circle Fancy Bazar, Guwahati – 1
Janasanyog/690/16
12
G PLUS FEB 18- FEB 24, 2017
Feature SHAIKH BROTHERS
THE SUGAR BUTTERFLY
195, Hem Brauah Road, Panbazar
The Residency Tourist Resort, Behind SBI D
0361 2736615, 9435818155 Fruit Cake, Bakor Khani (Paratha)
8811038779 Red Velvet, Chocolate Truffle Pie, Rainbow Ca
Shaikh Brothers is a legendary outlet in the baked product scenario of North East India. Established nearly 135 years ago by Shaikh Ghulam Ibrahim, a young entrepreneur from Hooghly, this place is serving freshly baked pastry products to the people for all these years.
Sugar Butterfly is the bakery division of the Resid cy Resort. Do check out the very pretty café wher one can sit, relax, chat with friends or read a book some lip smacking pastries ranging from red velve some mean cheese cakes. The prices of items are mium range though but worth every penny of it.
DIAMOND BAKERY H B Road, Panbazar 8812971474 Veg Puffs One of the oldest bakeries of Guwahati, Diamond Bakery serves up all the typical kinds of confectioneries – cakes, pastries, cookies among others. Apart from the outlet, their products are available all around the city at a number of retailers. Diamond Bakery offers quality goodies at a very reasonable price and is a trusted name among the Guwahatians.
EGGS ‘O’ TIC Near Navagraha Road, Barowari 9854035687 Black Forest, Chicken Pasties, Plain Butter Cake. Eggs O Tic came into existence in 1989 and set a benchmark to baking trends in the city. It is one of the oldest pastry shops of Uzanbazar, Guwahati. The exterior of this place looks like a British cottage with glass doors and classy vines.
Boutique Bakery
Bak
the a better
products have Bakery and confectionery ban people. rial for all generations of ur d items that h sive transformation in bake s cake” of y years. From the simple “glas ff is baked r cakes today, world class stu mber of retail consumption through a nu rs sugg bakeries of the city and offe
A unit of Hotel Dynasty
S S Road, Lakhtokia 7572009370 Chocolate Pastry, Pan Fry Roll, Donuts, Banana Cake The Boutique Bakery, an establishment that produces and sells flour-based food baked in an oven such as bread, cookies, pastries and pies along with mouth-watering snacks, serving coffee and tea to customers who wish to consume the baked goods on the premises.
PATIS
Near Ha
0361 2 Opera
Patisserie venient lo some seri era Cake their biscu
Dispur Branch
ake
denre k over et to e pre-
G PLUS FEB 18 - FEB 24, 2017
Feature PRIME BAKES Multiple Joints at Rehabari, Silpukhuri, Ganeshguri, Zoo Tiniali, Fancy Bazaar, Basistha Chariali 84860 31435/31434/31429/31431/31416 Chocolate Truffle Cake Prime Bakes is a chain of pastry shops with around 6 outlets in the city. From their inception, they have set a benchmark with their delicious bakery items. This place offers wide range of cakes, tarts, pastries, muffins, patties, sandwiches, burgers, and bread loafs.
LOYANS Multiple Joints at Uzan Bazar, Wireless, Basistha Road, MRD Road, Chandmari, Hatigarh Chariali
king
er place city
acking matee always been favourite sn s to a masGuwahati has been witnes city over the have been available in the celebration yore to complex multi-tiered e offered for right here in the city and ar the leading outlets. G Plus lists a few of out there. gestions on what to check
SSERIE OPERA
anuman Mandir, Opposite KFC, Ulubari
2451717 a Cake
e Opera is located at one of the most conocations of Guwahati, easy to spot and with iously tasty stuff to indulge in. The Opis highly recommended; other than that uits and cookies are worth checking out.
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9706013032 Black Forest, Chicken Pasties, Plain Butter Cake, Quiche Loyans is a widely loved bakery of the city. People mostly stop here to buy breads, dinner rolls and their favourite pastries.
REPOSE BAKERY Multiple Joints at Beltola Tiniali, Ulubari, Panbazar, Barowari, Bora Service, Chandmari, Dighalipukhuri East, Zoo Road, Sixmile, Hatigaon 88756 15193/15194/9706098905/08910 Sandwiches, Rolls, Pastries If you are new to Guwahati, you will see quite a number of Repose outlets and let it not confuse you. Not only are they hugely popular, they have some worthwhile products to try out.
TITIKSHA’S BAKERY Aloogudam Galli, Goyal Shantikunj Building, Athgaon, Guwahati-781001 9954723869 Besan Cookies, Chocolate Pastries, Chocolate Mousse, Black Forest Pastry.
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G PLUS FEB 18- FEB 24, 2017
Art
Ideals for emulation
Chandrika Das
Reaching out to Neel Pawan Baruah and Dipali Borthakur includes sketches and art works on match boxes, card boxes, and other articles that seem lame to the world. Art for Sri Baruah has always been about imagination than meaning. He says that the abstract sketches on the cigarette packets are ‘moods of an imaginary mind’ – some happy, some thoughtful, while some others are plain. “For others though, these are mere objects. For me, it is shades of yellow and red. I add some strokes of black to it. And it becomes something that my mind could imagine”, he said. Sri Baruah was also awarded for this creativity by a Society of Arts, New Delhi. His artistic endeavour unfolds a plane of vision, multi-stylistic approach, expression and surrealism. Over the years, his art work has been a combination of conceptualization, experiments and a blend of traditional and symbolic
Neel Pawan Baruah (L) and Dipali Borthakur (R)
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he moment I stepped in the compound, I was greeted by the huge bougainvillea tree that bent over the gate. The compound contained an artistic aura; the chaang ghar with nearly 5-6 dilapidated idols of Goddess Saraswati relayed that ‘art is worship’ for its residents. Basking under the sun was Neel Pawan Baruah, the artist whose brush stroked magic on his canvas.
mension in the Assamese music scenario. Just when her voice started striking the chords of the hearts of the people of Assam, she was diagnosed with a severe motor neuron disease in the year 1968 that slowly led her to lose her voice. Her disease made her bedridden and she had to distance herself from music. When the Assamese music industry thought that the golden voice would per-
“We never ran out of patience, that’s what has kept us going,” Neel Pawan Baruah on his wife, Dipali Borthakur Amidst casual conversation on the life story of the couple who is best known for their extraordinary commitments, Sri Baruah briefly took a walk down memory lane exemplifying that patience can do wonders. The “Xunor Kharu Nalage Muk” fame star Dipali Borthakur, wife of Neel Pawan Baruah started her career at a very tender age. Hailing from a background where music played a significant role, Dipali Borthakur adopted music professionally since she was in class 9. Often termed as the Nightingale Voice of Asom, Smt Borthakur once had dreams of taking Assamese music to the global platform. With songs like “Chenai Moi Jau De”, “Konman Boroxire Sip”, Smt Borthakur’s voice attained an unheard of di-
ish forever and her family almost gave up hope for her recuperation, a painter of the highest artistic repute, Neel Pawan Baruah came to her rescue. Pondering on the long journey of life Sri Baruah said, “Although I knew Dipali for a quite some time our marriage was decided in a matter of minutes over a short conversation. When I got married to Dipali, I knew I had to commit to her. I don’t remember anything else.” Neel Pawan Baruah, an artist with multiple endowments, from painting, poetry, mask-making to pottery, has studied and explored the culture of Assam like very few from the state have ever done. Inspired by the ups and downs of life, he painted abstracts that carried messages of life and living in
various forms. However, Sri Baruah says that art has never been a planned thing for him; it just happened. His passion for painting dates back to his Shantiniketan days, when he joined the Kala Bhawan in 1961. After he passed out from Shantiniketan, he joined the Guwahati Art School, where he taught fine arts to the students and contributed to the art industry of the state. Later, he joined the Guwahati Artists’ Guild and Assam Fine Arts and Crafts Society. The true artist that he was, for him every piece of article could be transported into a piece of art. Best known for his creative sketches on packets of cigarettes, he said, “For me art is art. For me, everything is a canvas. I believe everything could be converted into art work if one knows how to search for meaning in things without life.” His exploration also
(Art work by Neel Pawan Baruah)
elements. “I don’t have any subject in my mind before I begin. It is only after I complete that I un-
(Abstract sketches on cigarette packets)
derstand what it is,” he said. By mid 1970s, the health of Smt Borthakur started deteriorating which demanded continuous medical attention. Her voice was almost gone and she became dependent on medication. However, for the couple, the journey was never a hurdle. With utmost patience, Sri Baruah handled his wife, and cared for her like a baby. From bathing her, to feeding, the couple crossed year after year, making their commitment itself look like an art. Sri Baruah though laments the loss of a voice that fluttered the hearts of people. He said, “Our commitment was never an issue. We both are from art backgrounds. We had to have patience. Art for us is commitment, and commitment for us is patience.” Although Smt Borthakur is completely bedridden today, her husband does it all to make their living worthwhile. He runs tutorial classes at his residence and also takes part in exhibitions in and around the city. The couple which has contributed so much to the culture of Assam has never been provided with any significant assistance from the government. However, institutes like Rabindra Bhawan and a few others who are working on promoting art and culture activities of the state continue to contribute to the healthcare expenses of the singer. He acknowledges the timely visits made by the neighbours, friends and media houses of the city, although he refrains from talking about the financial assistances. Sri Baruah explains about the culture of art in West Bengal and sighs at the fact that being so close to that place, Assam does not have the necessary platform to promote art. According to him, art in Assam lives a very short life, mostly due to the lack of scope to take it ahead. “Assam has art lovers. The art in Assam is richer than many places of the country. But somehow the whole thing remains in a cocoon and fails to reach the needful audience for appreciation,” he said. In a world torn apart by materialism, the relationship of the artist duo stands as an ideology. While people term them to be ‘dependent on each other’ the couple happily considers themselves to be ‘strength for each other.’ Their relationship stands as a hope and an example for the generation that easily falls apart over the most trivial issues.
G PLUS FEB 18 - FEB 24, 2017
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Trotter
Genie Bouchard goes on a date with Twitter Fan after losing bet
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merican Football fan and luckiest bloke alive John Goehrke sent a hopeful tweet to Genie Bouchard during the Superbowl. 10 days later, the 20-year-old marketing student has successfully dated one of the hottest women in sport and we’re all jealous At 12:53am on the 6th of February 2016, this lad would have checked his phone and literally shed tears. After asking Bouchard “If Patriots win, can we go on a date?”, she quickly responded “Sure”. I mean, after a good two minute conversation with myself, I came to the conclusion that I’d give up my original Gameboy to go on a date with Genie - so if you want to spare a minute of your time to tweet @geniebouchard,
then please, help a guy out. Hours before the date, the 22-year-old Canadian tennis player appeared on a chat show to discuss all the gossip. Then it finally happened. Bouchard stuck to her word and went on a pretty cool date with Goehrke. Not only did they attend the Brooklyn Nets vs Milwaukee Bucks in New York, but John featured in a pretty awkward video. The 20-yearold marketing student then woke his neighbor Keith by screaming the house down. In 40 years time, after his grandkids probably refuse to believe his story, John can show his Twitter timeline and prove how he picked up one of the hottest sportstar ever, using just 140 characters.
(Source: The Sport Bible)
9-year-old girl puts Dabur in spot overchoice of photos
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Oklahoma moves forward with an anti-abortion bill
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proposed law that would require written consent for an abortion from the “father of the fetus” was approved by an Oklahoma House committee on Tuesday. The measure drew condemnation from reproductive rights groups even before sponsor Justin Humphrey described pregnant women as “hosts” who give up their rights if they have been “irresponsible.” “I understand that they feel like that is their body. I feel like it is a separate—what I call them is, is you’re a ‘host,’” he told The Intercept this week. “And you know when you enter into a relationship you’re going to be that host and so, you know, if you pre-know that then take all precautions and don’t get pregnant.”
Humphrey said that he was trying not to use such phrasing but “doesn’t know a better way to describe a pregnant woman. But I’ve not continued to use that out of respect to the people who’ve said they don’t like it,” he said. The bill, which would almost certainly be challenged on constitutional grounds, will be voted on by the full state House of Representatives now that it has cleared committee. Oklahoma has a long history of trying to curtail access to reproductive services, including abortions; in the current legislative session it introduced 11 anti-abortion bills. “So that’s where I’m at,” Humphrey told The Intercept. “I’m like, hey, your body is your body and be responsible with it. But after you’re
irresponsible then don’t claim, well, I can just go and do this with another body, when you’re the host and you invited that in.” The bill was approved together with another that would make it illegal to have an abortion based on genetic abnormalities faced by the fetus.
A Bill in Lok Sabha might put a limit of 5 Lakhs on Wedding Expenditures
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anjeet Rajan, an MP from Bihar, has introduced a private bill in Lok Sabha to curb the money spent on lavish weddings. Does this remind you of the statement made by Arun Jaitley after demonetization where people waiting to get married were worst hit and he said, ‘Shagun for a wedding doesn’t have to be lakhs but just Re. 1?’. Well, this seems to be coming true now. People have used Indian weddings to show off their social status – Themed weddings, pre-wedding shoots and more. This bill introduced by MP Ranjeet Rajan wants to put a check on the ‘show of wealth’ people do when they arrange a wedding in India. The Idea of the bill is if you spend more than 5 lakhs on a wedding ceremony, you have to donate 10 percent of that to a wed-
nine-year-old’s question has put most people including the Government in a fix over the choice of photographs used by Dabur on a box ‘Real Fruit Juice’. A nine year old girl from Guwahati refused to drink the fruit juice because it was meant for “him” — and not her — as the photo on the box is that of a young boy. This has prompted government intervention to ensure gender neutrality in written contents on food or juice packets. The girl is a student of a private school here in Guwahati and studies in class 3. Her father made a complaint to which the Union Minister of Women and Child Development Maneka Gandhi reacted and took it up with the juice manufacturer, Dabur.
ding of a girl from a poor family.
The reason MP Ranjeet Rajan introduced this bill is to stop the extravagant spending on weddings. She says in a country like India, this kind of show of wealth puts a lot of pressure on poor people to spend less. The bill also wants the married couple to register within 60 days of the wedding.
The company responded to the minister on Wednesday, saying the term “him” on the pack was not gender-specific but used in a more general sense to connote children. “We will make the necessary amendments to avoid any such misunderstanding in the future,” they have promised. The girl’s father, Mriganka Majumder, a banker, told a National media house that he took up the issue as he was pained at the reaction of his daughter, his only child. “Last Sunday, I bought a carton of Real fruit juice for my daughter. When we reached home, she came to me after a while and said she will not drink the juice as it is written in the carton that it is for ‘him’ not ‘her’,” he said.
If Lok Sabha approves this bill and passes it, the Government will decide the number of guests a ceremony will have and how lavish the food spread is. Although the magnitude of responsibility on the Government in case this bill gets passed will be magnanimous, it will slow down the lavish weddings in the country.
Majumber wrote a mail to Dabur, seeking an apology for what he termed as gender discrimination through their products and after the company failed to get a response from the company, Majumder wrote to the Union minister, seeking her intervention. “I have written to them to ensure that messaging in their products, especially food and beverages is ‘gender neutral’. Why should products such as fruit juice or health drink be male-centric. It amounts to discrimination against the girl child and women,” she said. In his letter to the WCD minister, Majumder said he is a proud father of a single girl and hopes that the company will show some respect to “our daughters”.
(Source: HT)
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G PLUS FEB 18- FEB 24, 2017
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Sobbing Bangladesh
apless Bangladesh loses one more match. But the manner in which they collectively sob by the stadium-full makes for some comical spectacles. Regrettably, the last test match was in India and we sorely missed out on some good fun. There was no sobbing Bangladeshi in sight. It was a boring, clinical and massive Indian victory that, for me, just held statistical interest. Dashing Aussie cricketer Matty Hayden once observed that with Dhoni’s presence at the crease and India requiring 15 runs off the last over, the pressure is always on the bowler and not on Dhoni. If a world-beating Australian can appreciate this basic capability of players like MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli, what makes a Bangladeshi cricket fan reckon otherwise beats me by a long margin. When Dhoni relinquished captaincy, I surfed YouTube just to look at some of his old heroics. I came across a video titled “When Dhoni made all of Bangladesh cry.” The video started with a photoshop of the Bangladeshi captain holding the cut head of MS Dhoni by his hair, blood dripping neck downwards. It was a match situation where India were only 2 wickets down needing 19 runs of 12 balls to win that T20; at the crease were Kohli and Dhoni. The cameras panned the stadium showing the massive Bangladeshi crowd - trepidation, expectation, hope and a judicious mixture of all other positive emo-
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tions writ large on every face. The pictures were amusing indeed and the feelings of the crowd portrayed some weird hope that Bangladesh stood a fair chance of winning the game given the odds. The situation turned even more comical after Dhoni struck a six off the first ball; the entire stadium plunged into a devastated state of grief and disbelief! One more six, a four, some running between the wickets over the next 5 balls and the two dourfaced batsmen did the customary handshakes on the way back to the pavilion – business done for the day. To me the video was a disappointment because its title was so misleading – it never showed the Bangladeshis crying thereafter. It is amusing the way Bangladesh as a nation, and its cricketers individually, reveal their immaturity. From Mushfiqur Rahim’s tweet expressing happiness at a certain Indian loss (not to Bangladesh); to Rubel trolling Kohli on the world cup field; to the recent Shabbir showing utter disrespect to veteran pacer Ishant Sharma: they seem to believe that winning is their birthright (courtesy those few and far in between flukes) and that it is through some sorcery that they manage to lose every time. Never backing up this idiotic malevolence with match performance, Bangladesh as a cricketing nation needs to pull up its socks. Yes, minnows – you need to stop sobbing and start performing! Swapnil Bharali Editor
The Sasikala Flop Show
n December 2016, filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma announced that he will make a film titled ‘Sasikala,’ a movie that would explore the life of Late Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Jayalalithaa, through the eyes of her aide VK Sasikala. Sasikala’s conviction in the disproportionate assets case made way for RGV to release the poster for the movie with insights about what to expect in his film – Strike the Iron when it’s hot! A powerful story with a thick political plot churning down in the south, the movie is sure to get the entire country excited. The biopic will closely explore the rise of Sasikala from a side-show to being one of the most talked about politicians in the country. The fate of politics down in the south, although controversial, is the same as the rest of India – a lot of dynasty and family politics exists but no one will care for it, unless you make it concrete in the form of a movie. In her defence, Sasikala said
that she is not a petty criminal. That’s right, she is not a petty criminal; she is there right at the top with all the big guns of Indian politics. Sasikala in her act of slapping Jayalaltiha’s memorial slab invoked the act of “Vanjinam Uraithal” (Avenging) although I don’t really know what she can avenge because she will be one of the most hated people after her stint behind bars. It’s the actions that speak louder than words and that is why we cannot trust the appointment of her nephew and money launderer Dinakaran as the Asst. Gen. Secy. of the AIADMK. Politics has become a family business here and everyone wants a piece of the pie. The public unease against her is fuelled by her business interests and that of her family and how deep their pockets are. Sasikala has been linked to several shell accounts and is a controversial mining baron just like most public servants who have so much access to resources and instead of doing, good are mired in controversy. SIDHARTH BEDI VARMA
Fueling growth through Guwahati’s inherent strengths
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ver the last few days I have been regularly seeing MS Dhoni’s pictures in newspaper advertisements, published by the state of Jharkhand, trying to woo investors to do business in the state. Accepting Jharkhand as an investment destination may be something new for industrialists and investors. But then, investments are not based on the stereotyped image of a state or a city, but on competitive advantages that a region has to offer. So while Dhoni’s face will certainly create a buzz and get Jharkhand the necessary attention, the success of the mission to attract investments will depend largely on the ability of the state to demonstrate competitive advantages over neighboring states like West Bengal, Bihar and Assam. That brings us to Assam. I wonder if we will soon see Priyanka Chopra welcoming tourists to Assam. Unlike Dhoni, Priyanka is originally not from Assam, but her stardom is likely to get the eyeballs for the state. Beyond that, the success of the mission to promote tourism in the state will depend largely on strengthening the supporting tourism infrastructure, which certainly requires a thorough overhaul. Although both the celebrities are superstars in their own merit, there is one major difference between Dhoni being the face of Jharkhand and Priyanka being the face of Assam. The former is inviting investors to come and establish businesses, whereas the latter is inviting the potential end users of an assumed line of business, i.e. tourism. Priyanka’s appointment establishes that the state believes that tourism can be a major revenue earner. Whereas that might be true, here is the question: is tourism potentially the top revenue generator for Assam? Or can it be something else where a superstar’s push can help? What are the other competitive advantages that Assam has over other states in the east? “Ajir axomiyai nijok nisinile axom roxatoloi jabo” Made famous by BhupenHazarika in an immortal song, this loosely translates to “If the people of Assam do not realize their own strengths and weaknesses, Assam can never do well.” Although penned under a different context, what stands out is the fact that we must understand
our own strengths and weaknesses and act upon them. Assam must. As the general concept of Assam’s development has been Guwahati-centric, it is important to understand what Guwahati’s competitive advantages are. Cities around the world compete to attract investment, talent and jobs. How well they understand, define and communicate their competitive advantages will determine whether the future is one of growth and prosperity or one of decline and deprivation. Guwahati is home to the best of intellectual capital from the state of Assam and the neighboring hill states. To maximize the return on its intellectual capital, it is important for Guwahati to align its development strategies and priorities with research strengths. Guwahati and its neighborhood, including Shillong, is home to existing and upcoming, best in class educational and research institutions like IIT, IIM, TISS, AIMS, Gauhati University and others. Globally, universities are the cornerstone of a city’s research and innovation offerings; many of the world’s life changing ideas have come out of university dorms. For present and future employers in the Guwahati region, mapping research and innovation provides a valuable tool for discovering R&D partners and allows better evidence-based location decisions. Think of Bengaluru and you think of IT. It is on the global map today because of IT and it has all happened over the last two decades. Till the early nineties, the city was a manufacturing hub, and had none of the global fame it enjoys today. The presence of a large number of colleges in the region, besides other factors, helped turn Bengaluru into the IT capital, as the access to talent was easy. Perhaps unplanned, or unforeseen, but the city grew on the backbone of its competitive advantages like access to talent and good weather, to attract the best in class corporations in the world to set up shop. Seven years ago we were invited to help the small town of Dharamsala set up international class cricketing facilities. Dharamsala was, and still is, to some minds, seen as a sleepy hill station famous for the Dalai Lama. We decided to use cricket as a magnet to develop infrastructure around it. Today Dharamsala not only hosts international cricket matches, but gets significant tourist inflow on account of the activities around the game of cricket. The tourism industry has flourished and the fortunes of townsfolk are at the cusp of being changed; especially with Dharamsala being
Opinion
Parthajeet Sarma labeled as the most beautiful cricketing location in the world. So cities’ fortunes can change in one’s lifetime when a competitive advantage is used to draw investment. So, what makes Guwahati stand out? How can the city use these strengths to attract more talent, companies, and investment? What can we gain by looking at it through the lens of the world-class educational institutions in the Guwahati region? When aligned with city specific strategies, research institutions can play a major role in generating innovation and defining future job growth. Universities and innovation hubs therein represent huge sources of such information as well as human capital. This can define what cities are good at and enhance the city’s brand. Such institutions attract and train world-class knowledge workers, besides connect the city to cutting-edge ideas. The IIT, IIM, Gauhati University, TISS, AIMS in the region are the hubs of expertise and technological innovation. Such institutions have the ability to fuel economic activity and stimulate investment beyond their walls. Globally they have acted as magnets for clusters of industry as businesses position themselves nearby, hoping to absorb and learn from them. They have an impact on the development of their surrounding environment. For real estate, they go beyond the easily understood role of occupiers and demand-drivers, as they are sources of information, which can forecast demandbetter. Aligning Guwahati’s policies, urban planning frameworks, and capital investments with the research strengths of its universities’ ecosystem can create the potential for significant growth. That can pave the way for confident investment and development strategies because they are based on an understanding of why the Guwahati region thrives. Priorities shaped by collaboration between the city, the university ecosystem and business stakeholders where their interests are aligned have a much better chance of creating desired outcomes and protecting against future shocks. Guwahati must get smart. It all begins with a better understanding of the human capital in the Guwahati region, because smart cities are not about IT, but about people. Parthajeet Sarma is a Mumbai based strategist, a Chevening scholar and author of books including “The Rich Labourer”. He can be reached at parthajeet@parthajeet.com
G PLUS FEB 18 - FEB 24, 2017
17
In Focus
Meet
Lain Heringman Is the merger of Cotton College with Cotton University a good move by the Government?
Musician/Producer/Songwriter
Abhinav Borbora The opponents of the merger have expounded a number of arguments decaying the move. A latent theme running across the various antithetical positions has been found to be rooted in a ‘legacy argument’. According to this, the proposed merger would lead to devastation of the historic and glorious legacy enjoyed by the college. A more comprehensive reflection would however reveal certain limitations in this position. The ‘legacy’ argument is but a manifestation of an emotive and conservative outlook. The merger proposes to upgrade the current institution to a University. In this light it therefore becomes paradoxical to argue that an act of upgradation is inimical to the further growth of the legacy currently enjoyed by the institution. It is of course true that any new association or institution would require a certain period of time before gaining broader salience. But it would be nothing but reactionary to make a protest for blocking novelty. Cotton College itself would not have been founded if the Government of the day had a similar attitude in 1901. The move by the current government is a progressive step that would contribute to bring greater accolades for this initiation. It is time that proponents of the legacy argument internalize a saying made famous by a conservative writer, “Change in order to conserve”
Gaurav Sarma As an ex-Cottonian, I feel that the move towards the upgradation of Cotton College to a university is certainly a welcome step. This would not only put an end to the controversy relating to the two entities of Cotton College and Cotton College State University, but would contribute immensely to the upgradation of the pristine institute of higher learning in the north-eastern region of the country in the true sense of the term. The move towards the unification will, in my opinion, save cotton college itself from the kind of degradation it would have been otherwise subjected to had it remained an undergraduate constituent college of the Cotton College State University as Cotton College was already a postgraduate college. Moreover, the continuation of courses right from the higher secondary to the postgraduate classes would stand to benefit all sections of students who have been pursuing these courses in Cotton College itself. To conclude, it is a very positive step and it needs to be welcomed by all stakeholders of the institution wholeheartedly.
Kriti Bajaj I have been following the Cotton merger story mainly in G Plus for a while now. You have been relaying the protesting stance taken by the students most of the time. However, the justifications put up by the students against the merger do not seem to hold too much water. They keep harping on the heritage of the college being lost if merged with the University. Also, they say things like all students have a dream of studying in Cotton College and if it is merged with the University, then they will stand no chance of studying the “heritage” and “British-era” college and so on. I mean, so long quality higher education is being dispensed, I really don’t see the harm of the college merging with the university.
Parlee Gogoi Cotton College merging with the Cotton University is not a good move by the government especially because of the recent NAAC rankings placing Cotton College as one of the top colleges in the country. I don’t think it is really wise to alter the course of something that seems to be moving on the right path. Cotton College has been doing fine so far as a college and has been producing brilliant students. What can be such a great idea as to convert it or merge it with a university unnecessarily especially when Guwahati already has another university of the size and scope of Gauhati University. No point I feel unless the government wants to create some unnecessary confusion.
Subrata Kumar Das It would be better to comment after we understand if the new university will continue to have the higher secondary classes, i.e., Grades 11 and 12. Examinations of Grade 11 and 12 are conducted by the AHSEC and not by a university as those grades are still considered to be part of higher schooling rather than college courses. If the higher secondary classes are removed from the Cotton College after it becomes a university, then that will be a real shame and Cotton’s higher secondary classes provide students with the first sentimental feel of “growing up and going to college.” If the classes remain, then the purpose of the university stands defeated.been producing brilliant students.
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emember you are not alone/There are millions of us spread out/All over the world, uniting who care deeply about changing the destructive path we are on/So just follow your heart to keep fighting for what’s right in any way, shape or form/And never give up hope So go the final words of the song Black Water by the conscious hip-hop fusion outfitRain in Sahara and such is the vision of Lain Heringmanwho had penned down these lyrics driven by a desire to spread a positive message along the principles of social justice, equality, freedom and respect. Spanish-American producer and multi-instrumentalist, Lain,who is now based in Guwahati, joined forces with multi-lingual rappers Rocky Glock and Sikdar to create the conscious hip-hop outfit Rain in Sahara and recently released the first single Black Water which has received a multitude of appreciation. Born in Madrid, Spain, Lain had a rural upbringing and first stumbled acrossa xylophone at the age of four. He startedlearning to play the instrument from a music teacher in the villager. He then took to learning recorder (a type of western flute) followed by the oboe, piano and several otherinstruments. The seed of a musician had germinated. He dreamtbig and following his dreams he moved to London to do his higher studies in music at Trinity College of Music.He soon shifted base to the United States and joined Indiana University in 2004. “I grew up in a village and after moving to London I came across a massive diversity and you see a lot of challenges andlack of economic opportunity and I started questioning economic inequality around the world and as a result I moved my base to USA.It was an amazing experience as I could learn about American politics, psychology and international development alongside my music,” Lain mentioned during a conversation with G Plus adding that it was also the time when Lainveered away from solely studying music. Soon after attaining his graduation in 2008, Lain went to live in Mexico for some time working in rural villages on microcredit trying to understand the root cause of their poverty in the process. The musician then moved back to London and joined London School of Economics and
Political Science. Little did he know that moving back to London would be a life changing decision; that is where he met Supriya Khound. “We worked together for a couple of years in Vietnam and later decided to get married. Supriya wanted to move back to Assam.So I joined her and have been here ever since. I respect and love her passion for her state. She could have stayed back in London but instead decided to come back and try to contribute to her homeland,” the musician said. The duo started their first venture with Organic Love located near SundarpurZoo Road which is an outlet that provides organic products.Meanwhile, being in Guwahati also gave Lain the opportunity to get back in touch with music but this time the passion had a deeper cause to it. The desire to bring a positive change to the city’s deteriorating environment and the resultant consequences of such deterioration has been showcased in the first single of Rain in Sahara. “Being here makes me feel that what I have been studying and my experiences so far, the right tools are in the box now. Hopefully, I can combine my global experiences to create lyrical content that can relate to people. There are things we overlook in our daily lives, like where does the garbage go, how clean is the air we breathe or the food we eat, corruption, greed and things like that. I want our lyrics to move beyond the music and try to show the outcome if we take action now,” Lain said. The trio shares the same interest and looks forward to presenting the conscious side of hip-hop the song Black Water focuses upon.Moreover, while people in the country may have had dealings with one side of hip-hop music, the picture that Rain in Sahara exposes the listeners to, is a whole new side of the genre. The trio is currently working on another music videothat will be available for listeners in a short while. Apart from being involved with Rain in Sahara, Lain is involved in another music project named Elephant Apple and also teaches the piano. The musician also expressed his desire to set up a production house here in Guwahati. Feel free to reach out and get in touch: lheringman@gmail.com or raininsaharaindia@gmail.com
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G PLUS FEB 18- FEB 24, 2017
Lifestyle
The Inner Space Of The Mind
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hida Akasha (the causal space) is different from the Chit Akasha. It is just like the space inside each pot is different. Suppose you have ten pots of different sizes, the amount of space inside each pots will be different. It depends on the pot. How do you calculate something as one liter? Because the container has one-liter space in it. Another pot has two liters’ space. A third pot has half liter space in it. It is like that.
Astrological predictions are just like meteorological predictions. They need not always be correct. Meteorological predictions don’t work all the time. So, in a similar way, by looking at the different astrological charts, people decipher the different kinds of chit Akasha. Someone who is Aquarius will keep quiet until one day they’ll
explode. With someone whose moon is in Gemini, you might predict that the person is double minded, always yes and no. From the chart of a person who is Taurus, you may predict that they’re very focused, they’re go getters. In the chart of someone who is Leo, you see that they’re very adamant, and they never listen to anybody. So some of these traits are identified from these charts. It indicates the Chit Akasha - the type of thoughts and emotions this person will have. Then time also matters. When someone has Jupiter in the 8th house, this person, for that one whole year will have all kinds of doubts. They will doubt everything; they will doubt themselves and doubt others. With the 8th house in Jupiter, wherever they are, they will want to run away from there. But it won’t stay
forever. After they manage to get through that one year, then it all changes and becomes different. Similarly, when there is a combination of Saturn and Mars, you will find anger in the individual, as well as in the society, in the cosmos and in the nation. You can say that in the nation there’s going to be anger and conflicts running high. See what is happening now, these last two to three months, there are bomb blasts, issues, and problems in so many areas. Astrological predictions are just like meteorological predictions. They need not always be correct. Meteorological predictions don’t work all the time. The day before yesterday, they said there were going to be thunderstorms, but we had sunshine! So Astrology is only a probability. You can say it is a possibility. Similarly, moods depend on the moon. A mood does not stay for more than two and a quarter day. That is the amount of time the moon is at one place. The moment the moon moves from that place; your mood also changes. And when the moon and Saturn combine, people get depressed. So these emotions, these feelings, they come and they go away. Nothing is permanent. No planet is permanently stationary in one place. They all move. But
VAASTU SHASTRA
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10 ways to address your Vaastu woes
here are several ways of rectification of bad vaastu. Some are traditional methods and some are with the help of energisers. These methods are listed here but an expert should be consulted in case of any doubt. 1. By changing the entrance, negative orientation can be corrected. 2. Changing the structure of the building. (This is the traditional method). Making changes in a room changes the energy pattern. 3. Having proper water flow, water storage and drainage. 4. Providing required opening towards north and east side of a building. Kasturi BorKotoKi 5. By making changes in toilets and bathrooms. Kasturi is a palette knife artist and 6. By changing the colour of the walls. Fresh and proper colour paints impressionist floral designs in oils. She hails from Guwahati. can transform the energy of a room. Blog: kasturiscanvas.blogspot.com 7. By closing wrongly placed doors and windows and making new ones. KasHmiri natH 8. Shifting persons from one room to another according to suitaFoodie, owner at XOXO cupcakes, food blogger, recipe developer and bility. For example, the energy of the southwest is suitable expert on Assamese cuisine.to the elderly or the owner. 9. Using Yantras to remove negative energy and generate posiKuLKuL raHman tive ones. Entrepreneur, mother and a 10. Making proper placement of furniture including beds and passionate cook. study tables. Hemanta Kumar sarmaH Engineer, Businessman, Advanced Pranic Healer and Su Jok Acupressure specialist. sHri sHri ravi sHanKar Founder- Art of Living Foundation.
when you identify yourself with any one of these emotions, you get stuck. That’s when you don’t move. That is when it infiltrates into your body and you get sick, and all such things happen. Isn’t it fascinating? So what is the way? How to move on from that?
The 9 planets moving through the 12 constellations brings 108 units of change. To enhance the good effects and to reduce the malefic effects, ‘Om Namah Shivaya’ is chanted 108 times. On a cloudy day, when a flight takes off, what does it do? It goes above the clouds, and then there is sunshine. That is what the spiritual practices are. They move us away from the Chit Akasha to the Chida Akasha. We move beyond all the emotions. If your flight has a radar in it, night landing is possible because there is a radar. You can take-off at any time, and land anywhere. A helicopter cannot take off, or a primitive plane cannot take off. But one with a radar, one with the sophisticated instruments can take off. Do you know why ‘Om Namah Shivaya’ is chanted 108 times. People a long time ago observed how the 9 planets moving through the 12 constellations brings 108 units of change. So to enhance the good effects and to
reduce the malefic effects, ‘Om Namah Shivaya’ is chanted 108 times. That uplifts you, uplifts your spirit, and takes you beyond. It connects you to the Chida Akash. In India, especially in Tamil Nadu, they use the term ‘Chittambalam Shiva’. This refers to the space of Chida Akasha. Many people don’t understand the meaning of this. It is, “I call Shiva and I land up in the Chida Akasha, the space which is consciousness”. In every puja, if you have observed in the ashram, the moment they say Shiva Chittambalam, I take off into the causal space called Shiva. Shiva ChitKasturi BorKotoKi is a same palette knife and tambalam Kasturi is the asartist Guru paints impressionist floral designs Tattva, or inShiva Tattva, or the oils. She hails from Guwahati. Blog: kasturiscanvas.blogspot.com Self. Everything is that, and that is called meditation. That’s what KasHmiri natH happens when youat XOXO transcend. Foodie, owner cupcakes, food blogger, recipe developer and All the thoughts move away. expert on Assamese cuisine. Emotions get settled and we experience the most tranquil, most raHman benevolent KuLKuL and most beautiful inEntrepreneur, mother and a ner space. That’s passionatewhat cook. the Kriya does, takes you round and round, and then takes you out of this orHemanta Kumar sarmaH bit. You goEngineer, round, round,Advanced round Businessman, Pranic Healerout andof Su Jok and then you eject theAcupresorbit sure specialist. and move into that space. sHri sHri ravi sHanKar Founder- Art of Living Foundation.
Recipe of the week The Valentines Soufflé
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ove is in the air. This is the month of love and who says chocolate hold the lock to love? I’m cooking and sharing so many different dishes for my loved ones, not just chocolate! Although you might have taken your paramour to a nice place and a great date, here’s my fix for the ones who could not do something and want to personalize things just a little. For the V-Day celebration you can do a romantic dessert of Strawberry Soufflé, just perfect to share with your loved one. Light some candles pour yourselves some bubbly and set some flowers on the table and take out the best crockery. Desserts are the pretty part of the meal and they entice one by their beauty and then by the taste. So, today I’m sharing with you one of our family’s favourite dessert, Fresh Strawberry Souffle, light as air and soft as an angel’s breathe.
Method To achieve the characteristic height of a souffle, support the mixture as it sets with a foil or paper collar around the dish. Always use a straight sided dish to give the maximum effect. Reserve a few strawberries for decoration. Puree the
rest in a blender. Put gelatin and 15ml sugar in a small saucepan, stir in 1/3 of the strawberry puree and stir over gentle heat until the gelatin has dissolved. Remove from heat ,stir in the rest of the puree and lemon juice . chill the mixture in the fridge for a while.
Ingredients
YY350g (12 oz) strawberries, washed and hulled YY30ml powdered gelatin YY60ml ( 4 tbsp sugar) YY20 ml (4 tsp) lemom juice YY3 egg whites YY200 ml ( 7 fl oz) double cream In a large bowl, whisk the egg whites with an electric beater, until soft peaks form. Add the remaining sugar, a little at a time, whisking well after each addition, until the sugar has completely dissolved and the egg whites form stiff peaks. Whip the cream until light and fluffy. Take the strawberry puree and whisk with the beater. Add the strawberry puree to the whipped cream, fold gently. Then add the stiffly beaten egg whites and fold so all the ingredients are well incorporated. Spoon the souffle mixture into a prepared dish. Chill for 4 hours until completely set. Carefully peel off the collar from the souffle dish. Decorate the top with the reserved strawberries. Kashmiri Nath Foodie, owner at XOXO cupcakes, food blogger, recipe developer and expert on Assamese cuisine.
G PLUS FEB 18 - FEB 24, 2017
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Reviews Cast: Akshay Kumar, Huma Qureshi, Saurabh Shukla, Annu Kapoor, Innamulhaq, Kumud Mishra Director: Subhash Kapoor
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rshad Warsi surprised his audience by delivering a light hearted black comedy in the form of ‘Jolly LLB’. The movie was well received by the critics as well as the audience. The characters were such that one wanted to see more of them and maybe due to which the production house decided to make this movie as a franchise and added a bigger star in the movie. The addition of superstar Akshay Kumar managed to create controversies in the media world followed by its tight paced trailer raising the expectation level to the fullest. ‘Jolly LLB 2’ is a story of a Lucknow based small time lawyer Jagdish Mishra alias Jolly (Akshay Kumar) whose only dream is to have his personalized chamber in order to practice law. In the process of acquiring the chamber, Jolly cons Hina (Sayani Gupta). Hina’s seeks justice over the fake encounter of her husband Iqbal (Manav Kaul). Pregnant Hina ends up her life as her faith in humanity and judiciary system is totally shattered. This motivated Jolly to take the case
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in his hand and also gives him the required strength to fight the case against the top lawyer Mathur (Annu Kapoor). This leads to a dramatic battle between a top lawyer and a underdog. The story is simple and totally predictable. There are no twist or turns nor any proper courtroom debate as we had seen in ‘Jolly LLB’ and many such films. Everything is easily achievable in the film without any hardship or troubles. The whole track of Sayali and her case was not that impactful nor was the realization part from Akshay Kumar’s side. The courtroom drama in the second half has loads of flaws and loopholes. There are many unwanted scenes which dilute the impact of the film. The character of Annu Kapoor is underutilized. The second half has many over dramatic scenes and less on factual confrontation. ‘Jolly LLB 2’ had all the potential to become a jolly good film, but ends up being a mildly good type of product. It will be loved by all those who have not seen ‘Jolly LLB’.
Cast: Keanu Reeves, Riccardo Scamarcio, Ian McShane Director: Chad Stahelski
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ohn Wick: Chapter 2 could have been even better than the original, but it’s not. True, you could say that about almost any sequel, but in this case the filmmakers dangle the germ of a different idea at the end of the movie — a new take on the same notion of lethal killers who live within their own gentrified moral code when they’re not shooting or stabbing each other. The film begins with Wick cleaning up business from the first film, which is to say he mows down an army of stooges before declaring a truce. He goes back to his supercool modern home, buries his weapons under cement and hangs out with his new dog. Finally, he’s out of the game. Wick declines, but D’Antonio proves to be persuasive. Plus, as Winston (Ian McShane), who runs the hotel that acts as a safe house for the killers (no business of the lethal variety is allowed there) reminds Wick, all markers must be honored, or else. In this world, there is no question what “or else” means. This will entail a visit to the Orthodox Jewish
Album FOREVER By CODE ORANGE
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eservingly heralded as one of today’s most forward-thinking hardcore acts, Code Orange also projects a hyper-seriousness that’s easy to mock. But the band’s lack of self-awareness with lyrics and demeanor is overshadowed by its music. Although the lyrics of Forever sometimes seem like something from an angry teenager’s diary, the LP’s instrumentation is brilliantly structured and, of course, crushing. The quartet’s Roadrunner debut is also laced with heavy doses of industrial and nü metal, which is bold since the latter is so taboo in underground circles. The opener, “Forever,” is akin to watching a compilation of horrific car accidents. It revolves around a
banker where Wick stashes some of his money; a trip to a “sommelier” whose selections involve highest-grade weaponry, not wine; and a session with a tailor for the type of suit that prevents being killed by gunfire better than the average outfit. Thus armed, Wick sets to work, meaning wholesale slaughter. He’s nothing if not good at his job. But things don’t go exactly as planned, and he ends up with a contract on his head that is immediately sent to every assassin on earth, apparently. You’ll be surprised where some of them are hiding. The violence is relentless, but it’s also so carefully choreographed that you can’t help but be impressed and entertained. Director Chad Stahelski, one of two directors of the first film, has a real eye for stylized mayhem. And Reeves was born to this kind of role — quiet, moody, looks nice in black. He’s just as good as he was in the first film, because he’s exactly the same. In many ways, so is the film.
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bear-trap groove that bares its teeth in Reba Meyers and Eric Balderose’s harmonic up-picking. Spearheaded by Jami Morgan’s feral screams and abusive drumming, the track’s unexpected changes create the sensation of rolling down a hill in a barrel. Just before the song’s most cataclysmic breakdown, Morgan screams, “Code Orange is forever,” immediately after which Meyers and Balderose growl, “Code Orange forever”—adolescent lyrics that take away from the music’s intensity. Thankfully, “Kill The Creator” quickly overshadows that cheesiness, a cut that follows up what’s surely to be one of the best breakdowns of 2017 with a disorienting plunge into industrial gelatin.
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The Ghazi Attack 10:00 AM 05:30 PM Running Shaadi 12:30 PM Jolly LLB 2 02:45 PM Beautiful Lives 08:15 PM gold mine 7d 10.00 AM haunted house 7d 01.00 PM 04.00 PM Forest Adventure & Aero Bike 7D 03.00 PM 07.00 PM
PVR Cinemas Dona Planet 08800900009 Jolly LLB 2 12:40 PM 05:40 PM 08:25 PM The Ghazi Attack 01:00 PM 08:30 PM The LEGO Batman Movie 03:25 PM Running Shaadi 03:35 PM Beautiful Lives 06:00 PM
Galleria Cinemas HUB 097069 89143 Jolly LLB 2 2:30 PM 03:10 PM 05:50 PM 09:00 PM
Grande Cines Paltan Bazar 09854017771 Irada 02:00 PM Running Shaadi 04:05 PM Jolly LLB 2 06:15 PM The Ghazi Attack 09:00 PM
Game Red’s Kingdom Platform iOS
n its face, Red’s Kingdom is a very simple puzzle game. In it, you play as a squirrel who can only move via rolling in a straight line until hitting an obstacle to stop. It’s easy to imagine this slide-till-you-stop mechanic being used in a series of self-contained puzzle rooms that involve turn limits or star ratings between them, but that is not what Red’s Kingdom does with it at all. Instead, Red’s Kingdom presents itself as a grand adventure, complete with an open world, collectibles, special items, and more, making its puzzling feel more akin to The Legend of Zelda than Cut the Rope in all the best ways. Red’s Kingdom opens with a quick cinematic showing the reason for your entire quest. The evil
Anuradha Cineplex Noonmati 03612656968
GOLD Cinema Paltan Bazar 9854066166
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squirrel king stole all of your nuts and your grandfather while you were at home sleeping, and now it’s up to you to re-gather your foodstuffs and rescue your family. It’s a silly story for sure, but it’s one that matches Red’s Kingdom’s cartoony aesthetic, which looks nice in screenshots, but even better when animating on screen. Red’s Kingdom’s individual components are all very familiar, but they’re constructed in a way that I haven’t really seen before. This makes playing it feel both fresh and comfortingly familiar. As a puzzle game, it’s top-notch, and it just so happens to be a pretty great adventure game too. There’s very little out there quite like Red’s Kingdom, so you should go pick it up and try it for yourself.
Jolly LLB 2 11:00 AM 05:00 PM 08:30 PM Irada 11:30 AM The Ghazi Attack 01:45 PM 06:15 PM 08:00 PM Beautiful Lives 02:00 PM Running Shaadi 04:00 PM
GOLD Cinema Lakhtokia 0361 273 5367 Jolly LLB 2 11:00 AM 11:30 AM 02:00 PM 02:30 PM 05:00 PM 05:30 PM 08:00 PM 08:30 PM
GOLD Cinema Narengi 8811001898 Beautiful Lives 11:00 AM Jolly LLB 2 02:00 PM The Ghazi Attack 05:00 PM 08:00 PM
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G PLUS FEB 18- FEB 24, 2017
Entertainment
Archana’s ‘Hello Baba’ gets popularity
George Baker starrer new movie ‘Seema – The Story Untold’
KALYAN KUMAR KALITA
KALYAN KUMAR KALITA
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lot of Assamese singles get released on social networking sites almost every day, but only a few manage to appease the heart of Assamese music lovers. One such song released recently is ‘Hello Baba’ which got a huge appreciation from the music lovers. The song is written, composed and musically arranged by Bhadrakanta Das, whereas beautifully rendered by Archana Kausik, a well known singer of the Assamese music industry. The song has been choreographed by Dhanjit Das; cinematography has been done by Bipul Das. The key role in the video has been played by Utpal Das, Preety Kongana and Adityam. The editing is done by Moni Rajkonwar. The song has been produced by Hemanta Goswami. Archana Kausik, started her musical career from childhood as she comes from a family of musicians back home at Tezpur. Her father encouraged her to fulfill her dream of becoming a singer and her mother, Nilima Kotoky was also a noted singer. Archana started learning singing at the age of 5 and completed ‘Bixarod’ degree from Jyoti Kalakendra, Tezpur and
also completed ‘Nipun’ under noted singer Damodar Bora. In 1998, she represented Assam in ‘Zee TV Sa Re Ga Ma Pa’ and upgraded to third round. She had undergone training in singing in Mumbai under Guru Sanjay Bidyarthi from 1998 to 2000 and also performed at various cultural programs with her soulful voice. Archana also got the opportunity to learn various songs of Kalaguru Bishnu Prasad Rabha under his wife Mohini Rabha. She has been associated with legends like Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, Hariharan and Ghulam Ali. Some of her albums which received major popularity are ‘Archana’, ‘Mor Priyo Geet’, ‘Morom Juraniya’, ‘Kotenu Asa’, ‘Deha Oi’, ‘Bihu Bihu Laagise’ etc. She also lent her voice in Assamese feature films like ‘Ma Tumi Ananya’, ‘Soru Bowari’, ‘Bandhan’ and Assamese mega-serials like ‘Xurar Lohor’, ‘Sangeet Sagar’, ‘Sangeet Lahar’, ‘Ma’ etc. Currently she is working on her two Audio-Video songs titled ‘Dhol Baai Kot Ratanpurat’ and ‘Jaap Maari Olalo’ which will hit the market very soon. The first song has been musically arranged by Ashim Das, whereas the other is written and tuned by Jayanta Sonowal and musically arranged by Dipkesh Borgohain.
Never to ignore a ‘Nightmare’
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girl, triggered by a nightmare, wakes up at midnight and finds a demon approaching her. Her mother ignores her complaints and fears on the same, she being only 6 years old. As the time progresses the girl finds many more live demons around her - be it her paedophilic uncle who abuses her sexually at that early age of six or her husband who acts as a brutal rapist after
marriage. Her fears and nightmares turn her insomniac and her narratives take her on a journey of bitter memories. Usually brutalities happening within a family are not disclosed outside just because of our social taboo of being exposed. But the protagonist girl tries to break all the shells of the so-called social barriers and expresses her turmoil. Similarly, when a kid rais-
es some point against something wrong in a family, his/her efforts are promptly ignored by the seniors in the family. The same thing happens here when her mother ignores her prayers of saving her from the demon. The treatment that director Irin Shabnam has incorporated in the play ‘Nightmare’ is unique and worthy of applause. A combination of narrative Mono Act and Shadow
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ational Award winning Assamese and Bengali film actor and Member of Parliament, George Baker recounted his experience during Chinese aggression in 1962 as he lit the muhurat lamp of a new film ‘Seema – the story untold’ based on the border conflict recently. Recalling his experience in 1962, Baker said, “It was a nightmarish experience for the people on the north bank of the Brahmaputra and it was particularly bad for the people of Tezpur, a sleepy little town those days”. “As the news of the fall of Bomdila and the advance of the Chinese forces reached Tezpur there was utter chaos and confusion. The town was soon ordered to be evacuated. Crores of currency notes were burnt and sackfuls of coins dumped into the lakes,” he recalled. “Today I am immensely elated to come again to my birth place,” said the BJP MP from West Bengal, who had made his foray into Assamese cinema
in 1974 playing the protagonist in ‘Chameli Memsaab’ that won the National Film Award for best Feature Film in Assamese. Baker played the role of Berkeley, a British planter who falls for a native girl, Chameli, (played by Binita Borgohain) and is later accused of murdering her. Baker played the same role in the Bengali version of the movie. ‘Seema – the story untold’ is about the panic the people of that time experienced during the Chinese aggression. The film will be shot under the banner of Suravi Enterprise TV and Film Division at various locations of Tezpur and Bhalukpung. The film stars George Baker, Nipon Goswami, Arun Nath, Krishna Das Nath, Rita Borah, Monoj Barkotoki, Nilim Dutta, Arabinda Barua, Ujjal Saikia, Ankita Saikia, Rudali Borah, Kashvi Sarma, Prema Lhamu, Aparupa Bora, Dipshika Chiring, Barnali Kakoti, etc.
Subhrajit Roy Play, Irin has presented the main theme in a very sound manner. With transitions of emotions and leaps in performance, the presentation raises many such questions on what we usually come across, but very rarely act upon. Produced under the banner of Prism - A Socio-Cultural Organisation, the play was staged on 3rd February, 2017 at Rabindra Bhawan, Guwahati. After the successful enactment of ‘Meenakshi,’ a play based on the epic character of Surpanakha in 2016, ‘Nightmare’ is the second directorial venture of Irin. In comparison to ‘Mennakshi,’ ‘Nightmare’ is more appealing in its content and more refined in presentation. Supported by Darothy Goswami, Darshana Das, Junak Garg, Kishalay Baruah, Poran Kumar and Joydeep Siring Phukan as shadow artists, Irin brings the psychological calibration that goes on inside the mind of an abused or a victim. As experts say, many such constraints are there in performing some sensitive scenes live
on stage. The shadow acts have complemented those scenes in a very subtle manner. Credit goes to Mrinal Jyoti Goswami for the light design which enriched the shadow acts. But the weakest point in the presentation was its music which was quite repetitive. As it is difficult for musicians to match live music on time in a dramatic presentation, the loud music played in the presentation suppressed many important dialogues. Irin tried to convey the message that a girl may be raped once physically, but she has to go through a series of emotional and social rapes in her entire life. Also she raises the question about which is more traumatic - a rapist’s touch or a parent’s refusal to believe, getting forcefully undressed by a man or a lifetime of disgrace by society. Irin’s ‘Nightmare’ is expected to get rave reviews from theatre lovers provided it is staged with some refinement in future presentations.
G PLUS FEB 18 - FEB 24, 2017
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Events Event: Consensio’17 Date: 12th Feb, 2017 Venue: Royal Group of Institutions The Royal Global University was launched amidst thousands of students and parents, who assembled to watch the last day of the Festival of Dreams-Consensio’17, live with Sunidhi Chauhan. The pulsating atmosphere added to the much awaited University launch as the Prospectus was unveiled. Consensio’17-The festival of dreams, came to a close with Sunidhi Chaudhan rendering mixed melodious numbers for more than 3 hours and yet had the crowd wanting more! Consensio’17 also saw the ‘Sunburn’ campus with Olly Esse, Progressive Brothers and Coke Studio being joined by the young crowd of Northeast in thousands.
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Venue: Shilpgram Date: 12th Feb, 2017 City celebrates Ali-Aye-Ligang – The Mising festival of spring associated with agriculture, specially with the beginning of the Ahu paddy cultivation. Chief Min ister Sarb ananda So Aye Ligang nowal
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Gup Shup Music Awards Date: 14th February, 2017 Venue: GMCH Auditorium The much awaited music awards for the Assamese Music was a blast and had the performances of artists like Zubeen Garg, Zublee Baruah, Angaraag ‘Papon’ Mahanta.
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G PLUS FEB 18- FEB 24, 2017
Fun Horoscope of the week
Emotions could be quite intense over this Valentine’s Day week, so much so that they could burst out into the open. If you haven’t told someone how you feel and have been itching to do so, try to keep a lid on things. The person in question might feel overwhelmed if you admit too much too soon. Entangled? Your sweetheart would deeply appreciate a special gift that may be more than enough to show how much you care not only now but always.
Yours is a romantic sign, so Valentine’s Day is the icing on the cake for you, and this year should be no exception. With both Venus and Mars in your sector of relating, a budding romance could go from smoldering to red hot very quickly. And long-term bonds could develop extra sparkle due to this week’s vital energies. It’s time to let go and enjoy some passion. Also, the Sun’s move into your wellness sector could encourage you to revamp your routines.
A focus on your exercise and fitness zone over this Valentine’s week could have you attracting attention at the gym. In fact, someone you may have had your eye on for a while could reciprocate your feelings just in time for a wonderful Valentine’s Day. If you’re already involved, the days ahead can include plenty of exercise, which could be in the privacy of your boudoir! The romantic theme continues this weekend, bringing even more options for enjoyment.
This week looks delightful in so many ways. With both Venus and Mars in your sector of leisure and pleasure, there could be no end to the fun you have. If you’re newly in love, this Valentine’s Day could see you crossing the threshold into a more committed bond. However, you’ll also want your space, so be sure to make this clear at the outset. Things are equally passionate if you’re in a long-term bond, especially if you can go away together.
If you have plans for this week, they could involve a wild party at your place. Not content to celebrate Valentine’s Day alone with your sweetie, you might want to invite your friends over for a fabulous evening. However, later, when the lights are out, your passionate side can come alive. The Sun’s move to your communication sector this weekend can be an opportunity to network for pleasure. If you’ve thought about learning a new subject, get started.
Your words have power this week, especially those written in a Valentine’s Day card. Someone could take you at face value, so be sure you really do mean what you say. When it comes to having fun, the ball is in your court. You make the suggestions and your sweetheart or love interest will be more than happy to go along. This weekend, the Sun leaves your sign and enters your sector of personal finances, making this a time to take stock.
Present energies hint that this week could prove very exciting when it comes to romance. You could receive some lovely gifts! You’ll also be in a giving mood and ready to treat your sweetheart to something very special. Valentine’s Day may be all you could wish for and more. This weekend, the Sun dances into your sign to infuse you with vitality. Over the coming four weeks you’ll be eager to start on plans that have been on the back burner.
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What was hand written by Prem Behari Narain Raizada using a flowing italic style in the best calligraphic tradition of our country?
1 Loosen (4) 3 Friendly (8) 9 Haven (7) 10 More competent (5) 11 Something of value (5) 12 Gas essential for life (6) 14 Fisherman (6) 16 Out of sorts (6) 19 US island state (6) 21 Bait, rag (5) 24 Longest river in France (5) 25 Exact (7) 26 Pacts (8) 27 Nuisance (4)
1 Great disturbance (8) 2 Pub game (5) 4 Looking-glass (6) 5 Mad (5) 6 Credit (7) 7 Multi-national currency (4) 8 Container for liquid (6) 13 Use badly (3-5) 15 Hard stone (7) 17 Aromatic spice (6) 18 Small wave (6) 20 Turn aside (5) 22 Join together (5) 23 Conspiracy (4) 18 In addition (4)
The highway that links Assam with the rest of India is NH ….. Maharnav Gogoi (Quizmaster) This quiz has been brought to you by Brain Jam, a property of Priya Communications
Garfield by Jim Davis
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8 2 6 9 4 7 Daily Sudoku: Thu 9-Feb-2017 medium 5 6 4 8 7 1 3 9 2 1 2 7 3 9 6 4 http://www.dailysudoku.com Word of the week5 8 3 9 8 5 2 4 6 1 7
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Crossword Across
An Harmonic Ball – Rearrange the letters to get the name of a world famous political leader.
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adverb [sahy-nee dahy-ee, sin-eydee-ey; Latin si-ne dee-e]
Which superstar was selected for cinema through the United Producers Talent Contest and made his debut in Chetan Anand’s ‘Aakhri Khat’?
According to the Greeks, Muses were goddesses of arts. Which English word came from the Greek word ‘mousion’ meaning ‘temple of the Muses’?
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Daily Sudoku: Thu 16-Feb-2017
5. 31
4. Abraham Lincoln
3. Museum
of India
2. The constitution
facebook.com/guwahatiplus twitter.com/guwahatiplus www.g-plus.in
1. Rajesh Khanna
curio-city
the Indian superhero that has been Q Name modelled on Amitabh Bachchan?
8
(c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2017. All rights reserved.
If you’ve arranged to enjoy a romantic adventure with your loved one, it could be memorable. Chances are that you’ll want to go somewhere exotic, even if it’s only for a short break. If you’re single and away on Valentine’s Day, romance could happen out of the blue. Will it last? Maybe not, but you’ll enjoy yourself immensely. With the Sun moving into a more intense sector of your chart this weekend, it might be time to resolve an emotional issue.
3 1
7
(c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2017. All rights reserved.
Do you have feelings for your boss or vice versa? Valentine’s Day is Tuesday, and it wouldn’t be surprising if you received a card from someone you hold in high esteem. Already spoken for? A lovely influence in your home zone could see you breaking out the bubbly and celebrating at your place. Later, a shift in energy might encourage travel or a desire to study a subject that intrigues and delights you. Don’t hold back. Go for it!
Sudoku
(c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2017. All rights reserved.
Someone could have the hots for you but prefer to keep things friendly and platonic for the time being. Why? Perhaps this person feels embarrassed about sharing their feelings at this time. And he or she might prefer to keep a low profile even on Valentine’s Day. Watch this space, though, as things could change in the space of a few days. The weekend sees the Sun entering your sector of ambition, and you’re ready to make a flying leap.
(c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2017. All rights reserved.
Do you have a secret? With a focus on a more secluded sector of your chart, it’s possible you’re eager to keep one relationship under wraps. And there’s no reason why you shouldn’t until you feel ready to spill the beans. Valentine’s Day is Tuesday, and you might choose to celebrate by preparing a healthy but seductive meal for the one you love. If food is as dear to your sweetie’s heart as it is to yours, you will enjoy yourself immensely.
last week solution
A lively focus on your social sector gets this week off to a lovely start, with plenty of options for romantic outings and Valentine’s Day events. Also, with both Venus and Mars in your sign, you may be an attractive option and the life and soul of the party, too. Don’t be surprised if you have many admirers that you knew nothing about. This isn’t the best time for commitment, however. Lighthearted dates will prove more satisfying.
Last week’s solution
G PLUS FEB 18 - FEB 24, 2017
23
Catching Up Most shared story of the week
N
ilim Dutta has been known to dupe several hotel, automobile and real estate businessmen in the city and often would claim to be a high-ranking official of Union home ministry while committing his crimes. His arrest was one of the most engaging posts on GPlus this week!
302 facebook.com/guwahatiplus
38 twitter.com/guwahatiplus
GYAN
Did you know?
Asom Chattra Sanmilani
I
t was no other but Asom Chatra Sanmilan (Assam Students’ Association) that was the first students’ organization of Assam. The association came into existence in 1916 and its first session was held at Guwahati in the same year. The first president of the students’ association was Lakshminath Bezbaroa. The association
went on to play a vital role in promoting Assamese literature and political awareness among the people of Assam until 1940 when the association was divided into two different bodies named All Assam Student Federation and the All Assam Students’ Congress. A decade later the two joined forces as the All Assam Students’ Association, which was later renamed All Assam Students Union in January 1967. In August 1967, the Union “established itself as a formal organisation and adopted its Constitution.”
PIC OF THE
WEEK
The Matriculation Times | Photo: Surajit Sharma
Samar Sarkar New
Hunk About Me
on the block
Hello everyone, I am Samar Sarkar. I am 24 years old. I am a martial artist, a black belt holder in Karate, Taekwondo, Kick-boxing, Jiu-Jitsu, red-silver mongkon in Muay-thai and also certified MMA trainer. My venture into the world of fashion was accidental when I took part in Mr Northeast 2015, and the journey continued as I became the second runners up in the same competition with the Best Physique title, which encouraged me to take part in Skywalk Mr India 2016 where I ended up as a finalist. Roadies also happened to me quite unexpectedly when Mr Chow Poran J. Gogoi, the regional casting coordinator for Northeast for MTV roadies contacted me for the audition to be held in Pune. I was lucky enough and honored to be selected by Rannvijay in the show and am looking forward for the journey to begin. Mojo I believe in creating my own destiny and that all you need to achieve something is, to believe that you can. If you don’t give up on your dreams, your dreams don’t give up on you. Route in the Woods I am more of a “go with the flow” kinda person. I don’t really plan anything. Life has been surprising me and hope it continues to do so. I just want to exploit every opportunity that comes my way and wanna kiss the world one day. Photographer : Deepak Das Wardrobe Stylist: Chow Poran Gogoi
24
G PLUS FEB 18- FEB 24, 2017
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