Vol 5 Issue 39 by G Plus

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018 @guwahatiplus www.guwahatiplus.com

Inside

Volume 05 | Issue 39 Jul 21 - Jul 27, 2018 Price `10

All police districts to have Twitter and Facebook accounts under NagarikMitra PG 03

PG 04

5-yr tenure of GMC council ends; only 49% Guwahatians know their councillors G Plus News

he Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) elections were last held in June 2013 and the new councillors took charge in July 2013. The final meeting of the councillors before their current terms ends was held on 20th July 2018 as this is the last month that they remain in charge of their respective wards. But even after 5 years of their tenure, only 49% Guwahatians know or recognise their councillors. G Plus conducted a survey in all the 31 wards of Guwahati taking 50 residents as a sample size from each ward. The residents were selected according to the number of years that they have resided in the respective wards. All the residents interviewed have lived in their respective wards for more than 20 years. In ward number 8, only 22% respondents knew who their councillor was, in ward 18 - 28%, in ward number 20- 16%, in ward number 13 – 44% and in ward number 1642%. In only just a few wards, more numbers of residents knew who

Exhibition in city violates norms, deny consumers their rights

their councillors were – in ward number 4, 78% respondents knew their councillor and similar results were seen in ward number 9 and 17. Taking the average of all the wards, it was found that only 49% residents knew who their councillor was. A resident of Jyotikuchi (ward number 27), Komen Das said, “I have neither seen our councillor nor do I know his name.” Das had voted for Bharatya Janata Party (BJP) in 2013. In a comment riddled with irony, a resident of Solapara, Daljit Singh said, “I do not know our councillor as he has never visited our locality.” Solapara is a part of ward number 10 and the GMC mayor, Mrigen Sarania, is the councillor. Many residents alleged that the councillors visit the localities only during elections and once the election is over, the councillors are nowhere to be seen. Allegations have also surfaced that they get busy in making money. But in some wards the residents are happy with the effort and initiative taken by the councillors. Continued ON page » 2

Guwahati-based Facebook page faces flak for posting objectionable content PG 07

Lead Story

SNIPPETS RBI to issue newly designed 100 rupee notes in lavender colour

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018

Mayor lacks vision:

BJP Councillor Continued from page » 1

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he Reserve Bank of India will shortly issue Rs 100 denomination banknotes in the Mahatma Gandhi (new) series, bearing the signature of Dr Urjit R Patel, Governor, Reserve Bank of India. The new denomination has the motif of “Rani Ki Vav” on the reverse, depicting the country’s cultural heritage. The base colour of the note is lavender. The note has other designs, geometric patterns with the overall colour scheme, both at the obverse and reverse. The dimension of the banknote will be 66 mm X 142 mm. All the banknotes in the denomination of Rs 100 issued by the Reserve Bank of India in the earlier series will continue to be legal tender.

All old buildings under GMC scanner

he Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) is set to conduct another round of Rapid Visual Screening (RVS) of buildings in Guwahati soon. Speaking to G Plus, GMC officials informed that all old buildings, including schools, colleges and other institutions are under scanner. Resilience building practices such as RVS and retrofitting has become the need of the hour as the threat of earthquakes of small and big magnitude looms large over the city. As preventive measure for public safety, the GMC regularly organises RVS, a classical method of preliminary vulnerability studies which requires minimum input to classify the vulnerability level. The corporation officials and planners have been following a set of guidelines on dilapidated structures.

rigen Sarania, the councillor of ward number 10, is the city’s mayor and some councillors (even from his own party – the BJP) feel that he lacks vision and has no plans for the development of the city. A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) councillor, talking to G Plus in condition of anonymity said, “The present mayor has not submitted any plans or proposals to the state or central government for pitching any developmental projects in Guwahati.” The councillor revealed that the mayor is close to the present chief minister and therefore,

enjoys the present stature and is only busy welcoming VVIPs at the airport. Another councillor from a different party said that in cities like Mumbai and Delhi, the mayor works day and night to resolve issues and plans the progress of the city. Even the bureaucrats in those cities are guided by the mayor. But in Guwahati, the mayor only depends on the decisions and plans made by the local body officials. He further said, “The mayor instead requests the GMC officials only to favour people known to him for various tenders.” It needs to be mentioned that Mrigen Sarania became the mayor in 2016 after BJP came to power in the state. In 2013,

GMC Mayor Mrigen Sarania | G Plus Photo Late Abir Patra was the mayor as, at that time, Congress had 19 councillors, BJP had 11 and AGP had only one councillor. In 2016, three Congress councillors converted to BJP and with the votes of one MP and 4 MLAs,

Mrigen Sarania became the mayor. Sources in the BJP revealed that Mrigen Sarania’s name as GMC mayor was suggested by chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal. n

Govt slow in allotting funds, say councillors

ith the impending end of the 5-year tenure of the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) council on 31st July 2018, the councillors have alleged that the government has been very slow in allotting funds. Councillor of ward number 27, Jona Rabha said, “The government allotted the funds very late which made it difficult to develop the roads and other infrastructure in the ward.” He said that whatever funds the GMC allots for ward development is directly given to the

contractors. Rs 30 lakhs each was allotted to all the councillors of the 31 wards in 2014 and almost all of them spent the entire money in repairing only a few roads in their respective wards. The councillors however submitted further requirements but the next time they received any fund was in August 2016 amounting to Rs 60 lakhs each. This amount was also utilised for construction of drains and repairing some roads, but for just the minimal developmental work, the councillors

require at least Rs 30 crores each. Lastly, they received a sanction of Rs 1.30 crores in 2017 and work under that sanction is still underway. Also, as revealed by another councillor, even after the sanction the contractors do not receive money on time resulting in delay of work. Jona Rabha said, “These sanctions are directly given to the contractors on completion of work and the councillors do not get anything.” Rabha said that there are many miscellaneous expenses and the councillors have to of-

ten spend from their own pockets. He feels that he has become bankrupt after becoming a councillor. Councillors also require money to contest elections. As per a notification issued by the state election commission, the maximum expenditure ceiling for a ward councillor was Rs 300,000 in 2013 and maximum expenditure ceiling for an area sabha representative was Rs 75,000 in the same year. Many other councillors blamed the government of allotting lesser funds and also for allotting the same late. n

GMC councillors along with GMC Commissioner and Mayor posing for a group photo after the last general meeting of GMC Council body | G Plus Photo

Governance

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018

SNIPPETS

All police districts to have Twitter and Facebook accounts under NagarikMitra Avishek Sengupta avishek.sengupta@g-plus.in

n a bid to connect better with citizens through social media, Assam Police aims to launch Twitter and Facebook handles for all the police districts in the state by the end of this month as part of its social media initiative, “NagarikMitra.” While the department has started activating the dormant Facebook and Twitter pages of the district police departments, it has started opening up new ones for those districts which don’t have one already. “A few districts had their own Facebook handles, but those had become dormant by now with little to no activities over the recent period. We are reactivating

those handles. We will also have Twitter handles for the same. We are opening accounts for those districts which don’t have their accounts. There will be personnel dedicated to those accounts that will not only share information from the police’s side, but will also interact with other users,” a senior official in charge of social media said. So far, the Twitter handles for Darrang, Udalguri, Jorhat, Goalpara and Hailaknadi have already been started while a search in Facebook reveals that there are pages for Goalpara, Darrang, Majuli, Jorhat, Dhubri, Bongaigaon, Sivasagar, DimaHasao, Cachar and Hailakandi districts. NagarikMitra, which literally translates to “citizen’s friend,” is an initiative taken by Assam Police earlier last month to transform

Notorious gang of thieves in Geetanagar Police net

File photo of Assam police headquarters the police into a “SMART efficient citizen centric service delivery mechanism” to curb the social media evils by educating people through social media platforms. Talking to G Plus, Harmeet Singh, additional director general of police, security and M&L said, “The social media platform not only provides us a scope to inform people about the various developments, but also helps us in having positive engagement with them. We want to send out our messages but we also want to interact with them, solve their problems, grievances and we want to reach out to people so that the image that police have that it can’t be reached, can be erased. We have already started interacting with people and in

the last few weeks, a lot of people have reached out to us and we addressed their concerns.” Under this initiative, the department has upgraded and made the official Facebook and Twitter accounts more active. “We have made our posts more frequent. Once all the pages are opened and properly activated, we will take this campaign to Instagram,” the official said. Over this one month since the initiative was started till July 17, the Assam Police Facebook page was visited by 8.47 lakh people and the Twitter was accessed by more than 2 lakh people. The Assam Police Facebook page has touched 29,000 likes in four weeks of opening and it has 3,882 followers on Twitter. n

AP engages in creative audio-visual content to connect with youths

he Assam Police have released two creative posts on Facebook and Twitter as part of its social media THINK campaign. Several more are to follow. The first message was posted on July 13 followed by another on July 17. The first post said “What does your weekend look like? Because we may have to plan ours, if it’s with us.” It was attached with a creative image in which two illustrated figures with the symbols of Facebook and Twitter on their laptops, are put behind bars and it read, “Sharing rumours/hate messages online can enable you for a date with us in nearest police station this weekend.” It got 4,400 reactions and 1,078 shares on Facebook and 508 likes and 228 retweets on Twitter. Four days later, the second post said, “Mobs have many heads but sadly no brains. There is no offence that can justify the actions of a mob.” In the image below, it showed a mob attacking one person and with the words written, “Mobs may not follow the law. But the law will follow them.” This post received 2,700 likes and 338 shares on Facebook and 517 likes and 304 retweets on Twitter. “This is part of a think campaign that we have started

and only two instalments have been released. The first two posts have already been viewed by more than 2 lakh people on Facebook. We will continue with more such creative contents and the third instalment will be released by this weekend,” the senior official said. In the posts that are to follow, issues like child safety, women safety, drug abuse, social evils and social media ethics will be addressed. The official said, “We are aiming to connect better with the social media users here that mostly include youths. We cannot be in better touch with them if we release the old bureaucratic press releases and occasional notifications. Hence, under this campaign, we will further engage into short videos and other creative means to make the youths aware about the various social trends and crimes and how not to fall victim to those.” The officer, along with three creative teams of consultants – one that has shifted from Mumbai to Guwahati and one from Mumbai and Delhi each – have designed the contents. The campaign also received strong support from Assam DGP Kuladhar Saikia and chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal. n

The two creative posts shared by Assam Police on Twitter and Facebook

NagarikMitra to sensitise regarding fake news

major work of the team of police officials in the NagarikMitra - an initiative that was started by Assam Police post the lynching of two Guwahati youths in Karbi Anglong because of fake news circulated on WhatsApp – will be to scan through various social media platforms to identify fake news and inform people through the department’s social media platforms. “Of late, fake news has become a major security concern and it is seen that they have incited mob violence not just here but throughout the nation. So, one of the crucial works of the team will be to monitor the various social media platforms to find fake news. Once identified, those reports will be flagged in our Facebook and Twitter accounts and we will inform people about the same,” a senior official of Assam Police, in charge

of monitoring social media, said. He further added that the team will also try to identify the source of such fake news and will take disciplinary action against those who were found spreading the same. “To make people aware we will also publish the various Indian Penal Code sections and the punishments attached to those so that people know on what might happen if they engage in disseminating fake news on social media platforms,” the official added. The state, along with the rest of the nation, has lately become very aware after fake news of child-lifters running amok, disseminated through WhatsApp, incited mob violence that allegedly took 28 lives throughout the nation. In Assam, a sound engineer Nilotpal Das (29), and a businessman Abhijeet Nath (30), on June 8 last, were pulled out of their vehicle at Panjuri in Karbi Anglong district and beaten to death by a mob purely on suspicion of being child-lifters, following the fake news. n

olice finally nabbed a seven-member gang of thieves on July 18, that had been giving sleepless nights to the residents of Geetanagar. The arrested seven, identified as Raj Hazarika, Gunajit Barman, Dipjyoti Das, Sahil Ali, Sambhu Das, Dipjyoti Hajarika and Akash Chauhan, were involved in at least five organised theft cases in the vicinity of Geetanagar. “We have been receiving a lot of complaints of theft reported over the last few weeks. This indicated the presence of a new organised crime network operating in the vicinity. So, we had alerted our sources for intels and based on those, we nabbed these seven,” Geetanagar police said. Police further added that they will seek police custody today after presenting them to the Kamrup (M) Chief Judicial Magistrate for further interrogation. “We believe that the network consists of more operatives working in other parts of the city,” the official said. Police also recovered three scooters, three cell phones and one car battery from their possession.

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In The News

SNIPPETS Guwahatians can now learn Japanese in the city

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018

Exhibition in city violates norms, deny consumers their rights Nehal Jain jain.nehal@g-plus.in

ssam Education Minister, Siddhartha Bhattacharya, inaugurated Kotoba Japanese Learning Centre at the Pragjyoti ITA cultural complex, in Guwahati on 17th July. Attending the programme as chief guest, Bhattacharya said, “After World War II, the way Japan has advanced is mind-boggling. Their language, business products have all developed. Therefore, the use of its language has become necessary for us. Demand for Japanese is high because of growing Indo-Japan relations.” "I hope this will benefit students in realising their dream of learning foreign languages." he added. The centre’s main focus is the development of skills to enable individuals to work in Japan. The centre will also explore the possibilities of imparting education in Japanese through collaborative programmes with educational institutions of Assam in the future.

Fibre optic cables connect Kolkata to Guwahati

harat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), one of the leading telecom operators in the country, completed its Ashta Mangal Project Phase-I for improving the connectivity in the northeast regions. Under this project, BSNL has provided reliable connectivity to north-eastern regions, using Optical Fibre Power Ground Wire (OPGW). It also confirmed the cost of this project was around Rs 100 crores. The optical fibres within the cable can be used for highspeed transmission of voice and data communication. The connectivity has been provided from Kolkata to Guwahati (Assam) and to other seven state headquarters of the region (NE), said the company. With this project, Guwahati now will be connected to Shillong, Aizwal, Agartala, Itanagar, Dimapur, Kohima, Imphal, Tezpur and Nagaon.

fter retail outlets and online shopping sites, exhibitions are the new go-to place for the shopping enthusiasts of the city. But, more than often, these exhibitions are found to be violating government norms in spite of the hefty amounts of money the sellers charge. The two-day exhibition called ‘Boutiques of India’ was organised at Vivanta by Taj, Guwahati on July 13-14, 2018. Over 60 exhibitors had set up their stalls, around 90% of which were from outside Guwahati, officials at the sales tax department informed G Plus.

In this exhibition on fashion & lifestyle, a lot of the sellers were found issuing kachha (invalid) bills or no bills to the customers.

There are no trial rooms in such a grand exhibition. Firstly, most of the clothes being sold here are overpriced and on top of that, I have to buy them without any trial. And after I do so, if the clothes do not fit or suit me, there’s no way of getting them exchanged because the shopkeepers are refusing to provide bills,” Varsha, a shopper who attended the exhibition

Footwear being displayed at a stall in the exhibition (L), A kachha bill issued at the exhibition (R) “There are no trial rooms in such a grand exhibition. Firstly, most of the clothes being sold here are overpriced and on top of that, I have to buy them without any trial. And after I do so, if the clothes do not fit or suit me, there’s no way of getting them exchanged because the shopkeepers are refusing to provide bills,” expressed Varsha, a shopper who attended the exhibition on the first day. The exhibition, that had stalls of fashion garments, footwear, handloom items, accessories, jewelleries, festive items and home decor items, was open to the public from 10 in the morning to 10 at night. While some of the products like festive items, imitation jewellery and raw cloth pieces

are exempted from the Goods & Services Tax (GST), most products fall under the ambit of GST. The GST Act 2017 mandates the issue of invoice whenever a product or a service is sold. According to section 31 (subsection 1 rule 36) of the GST Act, “A registered person supplying taxable services shall, before or after the provision of service but within a prescribed period, issue a tax invoice showing the description, value, tax charged thereon and such other particulars as may be prescribed.” However, the bills being issued at the exhibitions violated the GST Act as they neither carried the name of the shop, nor the GST registration number or any other details mandated.

When questioned by G Plus, the organiser of the exhibition, Kritika Jain said, “As organisers, we make sure that all exhibitors are legally registered under the GST. Not only do we collect their outlet’s details including the GSTIN number, we also collect their opening and closing statements and make sure that they do temporary registrations and pay the advance tax required by the government from all casual dealers.” But the organisers seemed to be unaware that the sellers weren’t issuing invoice to the customers. The negligence of the organisers could be sensed when they said, “Most of the sellers have flown from other cities so maybe they have gotten over with the invoice book.” n

No case registered at state consumer forum against non-issuance of bills during exhibitions

s most consumers do not ask for bills against their purchases, they forego their consumer protection rights. “A consumer case is permissible at the consumer court only if there’s evidence of the transaction, that is, the purchase of the goods and services,” said Anuja Bhuyan, Registrar of State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission. She informed G Plus that until now, not a single case has been registered at the

consumer forum against sellers at exhibitions for non-issuance of valid bills. Without evidence supporting the fact that a particular transaction has taken place, a complaint does not come under the purview of the consumer court. Instead, the consumer has to either file a police complaint or write a letter to the deputy commissioner to bring the issue to light. Further, by not issuing bills, the sellers are also evading taxes. All temporary sellers who put up stalls at various exhibitions

and expos are mandated to get them registered temporarily as casual dealers and pay a lump sum amount to the sales tax department as advance tax. Further, they are to submit e-bill of their opening and closing stocks to the department within three months. “After receiving the stocks and statements, the department gets to know if any of the sellers have suppressed any amount or evaded taxes. If it is so found, taxes are realised and penalties are imposed on the sellers,”

Superintendent of Taxes, Rajib Islam, informed G Plus. He further added that in extreme cases of a seller violating norms, their registrations may also be cancelled and they can no longer be able to do business in any part of the country using the registered PAN card number. Speaking to G Plus, Joint Commissioner of the GST Cell, Sales Tax Department, Shakil Shahidullah asserted, “Shopkeepers cannot deny bill/ invoice to customers for the product/services sold.” n

Concern

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018

CBI to probe coal scam post illegal smuggling from Margherita and Barak Valley Nehal Jain jain.nehal@g-plus.in

What is coke? Coke is a bi-product of coal. It is a fuel with high carbon content and few impurities, made by heating coal in the absence of air. It is used in the preparation of producer gas which is a mixture of carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen (N2). Producer gas is produced by passing air over redhot coke. Coke is also used to manufacture water gas.

hen one door closed, two more opened for the illegal coal traders of Assam; their product caters to the never ending demand of the same in Guwahati. With coal smuggling from Meghalaya becoming difficult due to a National Green Tribunal (NGT) ban on the coal mining that was further reinforced after the recent coal smuggling reports in the city, the mafias have found ways to procure the same illegally from Barak Valley and Margherita within the state. Chief Minister of Assam, Sarbananda Sonowal, on July 16 Monday, had decided to hand over the probe of coal scam in the Barak Valley to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). “This is being done to ensure a thorough and impartial inquiry and appropriate action against the culprits,” Sonowal said. Senior officials in the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) informed G Plus that the decision has come post the seizure of a document from one Abdul Ahad Choudhury, a coal trader from Barak Valley. In the document, it was alleged that money has been given to several senior government officials by

File photo of government officers arrested by CID (SIT) in connection with coal trade syndicate the coal syndicate to procure undue favours. Names of many government officials including deputy commissioner (DC), MLA, deputy inspector general (DIG) and superintendent of police (SP) have popped up along with the amounts paid to them. CID officials alleged that

with tens of government officials being allegedly involved in the syndicate, there seemed to be no department that could investigate the matter neutrally. Hence, CBI probe has been directed. Similarly, in a confidential report of CID in January 2018, it had been acknowledged that “a

10 officials, 6 traders arrested by CID in illegal coal syndicate case

n February this year, the Assam government had announced CID enquiry into an alleged syndicate of illegal coal trade and smuggling operating in the state. A team of officers led by Additional SP (CID), Nirmal Baishya, has arrested 16 people, including field officials and Assam Civil Service (ACS) level officers in connection with the syndicate so far. The arrested officials are Enforcement Inspector Chitra Kumar Nath, Superintendent of Tax Sajal Das, Enforcement Inspector Biswajit Bhattacharjee, Assistant Enforcement Inspector Babul Mandal, Inspector of Tax Anjan Jyoti Borah, Circle Officer of Katigora Manjur Ilahi Barbhuyan, Assistant Enforcement Inspector Tepu Ram Bora, Assistant Enforcement Inspector Anurag Shandilya, Enforcement Checker Madhav Neog and Enforcement

Checker Mrigendra Sarma. Apart from coal mafia kingpin Kuldeep Singh, CID has also arrested five persons from Jogighopa area of Bongaigaon district namely Mubarak Ali, Ahsan A Khan, Akibar Rahman, Faruk Ahmed and Bhaskar Kalita in connection with the alleged illegal coal syndicate. The arrested officers were interrogated at the CID headquarters before their arrest. CID has also seized 6 coal-laden trucks from February onwards – two after crossing Koinadhora check gate and four after crossing Digor-

olice sources are also suspecting that there might be many more coal syndicates

khal check gate in Cachar. Earlier this year, the arrest of Kuldeep Singh - said to be one of the kingpins of a thriving coal syndicate - had opened the lid of a much bigger coal smuggling nexus thriving in the Assam-Meghalaya border near the city’s Khanapara locality. “During interrogation, Singh had revealed the names of many influential people. They are under our radar now. Since Singh is himself an accused in the case, his words cannot be trusted without verification and proof. So the police and CID are dealing with this issue very sternly to gather all information,” informed Additional SP (CID) Nirmal Baishya. Police sources are also suspecting that there might be many more coal syndicates which are active in the northeastern region and they are delving deep into the matter. n

coal syndicate has been operating in Margherita for the last many years and it is still continuing with support from the police, local politicians and some officials of the Coal India Limited among others”. The illegal trade in coal continues till date with the

syndicates now changing their mode of operation. While Coal India Limited (CIL) is the sole company that has been mining coal in the government mines in and around Margherita, it has been alleged by CID officials that coal is being illegally brought to the coke industries and then transported with challans (permission receipt) from these industries, most of which are running illegally in the area. Reportedly, there are more than 50 coal coke industries functioning in and around Margherita. n

CID to tighten the noose on coal trade, mines

ore transport officials, politicians and police personnel are likely to be grilled by the CID which is probing the illegal coal syndicate case. “Raids will be conducted at various illegal coal mines once the season begins. All the officers are under our scanner currently and some more officials will be summoned soon for investigation,” informed Nirmal Baishya, speaking to G Plus. Coal mining and trading is a seasonal business, which reaches its peak during September – April every year. Although many names have come up during investigations, the CID cannot summon people without proof or without catching them redhanded. Baishya further added that the investigation will encompass all the coal hubs including the Barak Valley and Margherita. “The CID team will leave no stone

unturned to go to the root of the scam,” he said. It has also come to light that a lot of weigh bridges are running without trade licenses issued by the transport department which is mandatory according to the Motor Vehicles Act. All weigh bridges will also be inspected, along with the details of trucks weighed on the bridges every day (total number of trucks, their weight and the revenue generated). Earlier, the DTO had also mandated installation of CCTV cameras at all the weigh bridge premises. However, CID also discovered that the CCTVs installed at Khanapara check gate were not connected with the digital video recording system meaning that nothing was getting recorded or stored for future reference. Stricter enforcement of rules is also expected to take place in the state to curb the prevailing problems. n

City

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018

SNIPPETS Thieves decamp with Rs 15,000 from restaurant, destroy CCTV camera

hieves looted an estimated cash of Rs 15,000 from a bar and restaurant located at NH 37, Sonapur and also destroyed a CCTV camera installed inside the restaurant. The owners of Barcode restaurant at Kamarkuchi have lodged an FIR with Sonapur police station in connection with the case. According to the restaurant owners, the incident took place late at night on July 16. “When the cashier opened the restaurant this morning (Tuesday), he found that the cash box was broken. The thief used a cleaver (large knife) from the kitchen to break open the cash box,” Ashish Goel, a partner at the restaurant told G Plus. Goel added that the CCTV camera installed above the cash counter was also found damaged. The owners are suspecting that the thief entered through a small window in the bathroom as they found shoe marks on the commode. They will now go through the footage from the other CCTV cameras installed in the restaurant.

Naamghar in Bengaluru now open for devotees

o spread the religious, spiritual and cultural richness of Assam, the Sreemanta Sankardeva Cultural Society, Bangalore has established a naamghar in the city of Bengaluru. The ‘Guru Aaxon Protistha’ was held on Sunday, July 15, and the religious place is now open for the devotees. The naamghar is located at Maruthi Nagar, Lakshminarayana Pura, Chennappa Layout, Chinnapanna Halli, Bengaluru.

(Above and below) Kids enjoying a dip in the water to fend off the scorching heat in the city in two city locations | G Plus Photo

Monsoon trough is a part of the Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) where the northern hemisphere and southern hemisphere winds meet. This is normally shown as a line connecting the location of monsoon low pressure areas. These troughs run across continents during peak monsoon periods.

City experiences scorching heat, rains forecast for three days in the region Nehal Jain jain.nehal@g-plus.in

he temperature details unveiled by the Borjhar-based Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) put Guwahati's maximum temperature at 37 degrees Celsius while the minimum temperature was measured at 28 degrees Celsius. However, if the real feel temperature is considered, Guwahati felt like 47-50 degrees Celsius on July 19. Temperature in the AssamMeghalaya region witnessed a sudden rise on July 19, 2018 due to occurrence of less rains in the past three days. "There is no “system” for rainfall prevailing in the region currently. But rainfall along with a drop in the temperature can be expected from July 21 onwards," informed RC Debnath, RMC Meteorologist (D) to G Plus. He further informed that a region receives rainfall when the monsoon trough passes through it. Until 3 days back, the trough was passing through Assam and Meghalaya. But now, the trough is passing Anupgarh, Jaipur, Gwalior and centre of low pressure area over North Madhya Pradesh and neighbourhood, Daltonganj, Jamshedpur, another centre of

low pressure area over Northwest Bay of Bengal and neighbourhood. Then, it'll go East-Southwards to East-Central Bay of Bengal and extend up to 2.1 km above main sea level. The monsoon trough is expected to reach the AssamMeghalaya region by July 21 and cause rainfall at multiple places for the next three days, which is July 21, 22 and 23. Further, heavy rainfall can be expected at a couple of places on July 21. Earlier this month, Sanjay O’Neil Shaw, director of RMC, informed G Plus that the region will be receiving lesser rainfall this season. “It is going to be about 36 to 38 degrees in Kamrup. This is partly because the northeast region is going to get lesser monsoonal rainfall than normal. Also, the city is receiving lesser rainfall because of the pollution here. There is a wide difference between the rainfalls that Borjhar receives and that Basistha or Fancy Bazar receives,” he said. “This is mostly due to high carbon footprint in the city due to automobile pollution and the cumulative heat generated by air-conditioners,” a city-based environmentalist, Ranjan K Baruah, said. He further suggested, “The city cannot avoid the problems that might arise due to global warming and other issues, but we

can bring the pollution in the city down if we change our lifestyle a bit. “Instead of purchasing more and more cars, we must also use bicycles like in China and Japan. We should be very judicious in

using our air conditioners. And, if we plant a tree in every house, I don’t think the green cover will be an issue. With these small steps, the people of Guwahati can help the city avoid the fluctuating climate to some extent.” n

In The News

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018

Guwahati-based Facebook page faces flak for posting objectionable content Saumya Mishra saumya.mishra@g-plus.in

egional Facebook page “Sarcasm Society of Assam” has recently faced flak for posting objectionable content on their page. City-based child rights activist and founder of the NGO, UTSAH, Miguel Das Queah raised a red flag after coming across such posts on Facebook. He expressed his concern in a Facebook post. He wrote, “There is a page called Sarcasm Society of Assam whose administrators have been putting up all sort of objectionable photos and videos that are violative of child rights, including a picture of Papon kissing the girl.” Through his post, he also drew attention of the Assam Police and the Assam State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (ASCPCR) and urged them to take

SNIPPETS Flights between Guwahati and ASEAN countries to start this October

f all goes well you can travel to some of the ASEAN countries from this October from Guwahati. The plan to open flights to the ASEAN nations was announced during Advantage Assam Global Investors’ Summit 2018 in February. Chandra Mohan Patowary, Minister for Commerce & Industries informed that there are plans to start at least six flights from the LGBI Airport this October. Connecting the ASEAN countries is a part of India’s effort to convert the northeast region into a trade and commerce hub. During the Advantage Assam summit, chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal had discussed with Air Asia on the modalities of operating flights between Guwahati and the ASEAN countries. A presentation was also made by Amar Abrol, MD and CEO, Air Asia.

Screenshot of child right activist Miguel Das Queah’s Facebook post necessary action. “I urge upon the Assam Police and the Assam State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (ASCPCR) to take immediate action before things go out of hand,” wrote Queah. While talking to G Plus he

said that it is extremely sensitive to put up any content related to minors and children and that a social media account should play a responsible role while communicating anything through their page. Sarcasm Society of Assam

is a regional satirical page listed under the category “Just for Fun.” The page currently has a shade over 64,000 followers. Recently, Assam Police tightened the noose on various social networking sites after the recent incident in Karbi Anglong where rumours were spread over WhatsApp leading to the lynching of two youths in the district. Following the incident, police also initiated action against several profiles on social networking sites, Facebook and Twitter, which threatened to spread fake and false news in order to mislead people. In this regard, a special team was also constituted by the Assam Police to investigate and weed out such online profiles. The team is being led by Additional Director General of Police (Security). They have also found a number of problematic or fake profiles which have already been deactivated or deleted. n

SNIPPETS Ganja recovered in Kamrup Express at Ghy Rly Station

rug dealers are now trying to use the passenger trains to transport various types of narcotics. On Monday, a patrol team of the GRP with anti-theft of Passenger Belongings (TOPB) team, conducted a drive against undesirable elements and recovered 18 kilograms of ganja (marijuana) from 15960, Kamrup Express (Dn). The ganja was recovered from the passenger train when it was at station number one. During the drive the team found eight packets of unclaimed ganja kept in a battery box cover of Coach No 14293 (S-7). The recovered ganja packets weighing total about 18 kgs (approx) have been seized as unclaimed by the drive team and the value is estimated to be Rs. 1,26,000. The railway team comprised Sub-Inspector, Aruna Oraon; Head Constable, Jamal Uddin of P-Cell, GHY and Head Constable, Kanak Das. No arrests have been made so far.

Health

SNIPPETS Guwahati girl sold in Rajasthan for Rs 90,000 rescued

16-year-old girl from Adabari, who had gone missing since June 2, was rescued by the Jalukbari Police and brought back from Sirohi in Rajasthan on July 15. According to police sources, the minor was lured away by her alleged boyfriend, Ziarul Islam on the pretext of marrying her and was later taken to Rajasthan. Islam later sold the minor to one Dilip Singh (30) of Rajasthan for Rs 90,000. Police said that Rajasthan police, acting on a tip-off, managed to rescue the girl from the clutches of Dilip and handed her over to an NGO. Later, the Rajasthan Police informed the Assam Police about it. The Jalukbari Police team that went to Rajasthan arrested Dilip Singh who was produced before the court on July 15. A case (No.709/18 under Section 366 of IPC) was registered against Dilip Singh. However, police confirmed that Zirul Islam is absconding and the search is on.

Five teams to monitor price of goods in the city

ive teams comprising officials from the Kamrup Metropolitan district administration and the Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Department, have been formed to inspect, monitor and check prices of essential commodities, especially potatoes and onions, in the city. Each team will operate under the charge of an executive magistrate and will be responsible for particular localities of Guwahati.

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018

One-of-a-kind limb transplant camp organized in city Nehal Jain jain.nehal@g-plus.in

one-of-its-kind limb transplant camp was conducted at the premises of Mahavir Bhawan, AT Road on July 15, Sunday. Conducted by the Digambar Jain Parsvanath Homeopathic Aushdhalaya (a unit of Sri Digambar Jain PanchayatSDJP, Guwahati) in collaboration with the Rotary Club Jaipur Majesty, the camp was formally inaugurated by Virendra Mittal (IAS), Deputy Commissioner, Kamrup (M). “This is a very noble initiative for the greater good of society. We need more such individuals and organizations to come forward and give back to the people. I hope that more such initiatives are conducted in Guwahati in the future,” said Mittal while speaking on the occasion. Mittal visited the camp along with his family members and his mother donated Rs 10,000 towards the cause. The camp, that received applications from about 107 patients, turned out to be a huge success with people from all walks of life coming to get their prosthetic arms. While a total of 87 patients attended the camp along with their family members and friends, prosthetic hands were installed in 80 of them and 7 were rejected after examination. The camp aimed to improve the quality of life of the patients and in some cases, help them to be gainfully employed and earn their livelihood in a better way. The camp was organized to mark the occasion of 50th Diksha Divas of Jain Acharya 108 Sri Vidya Sagar Ji Maharaj. A conference aimed at informing the gathering about prosthetic hand and to demonstrate its use was also organized simultaneously. This conference was addressed by CA Shantilal Jain, ambassador of LN 4 Prosthetic Hand Camp, Jaipur. President of SDJP Mahavir Jain,

Deputy Commissioner, Kamrup (M), Virendra Mittal inaugurating the camp President of Aushdhalaya Dr GC Jain, along with other members of the Panchayat and Aushdhalaya also addressed the gathering during the conference. “While a lot of camps and programs have been organized

for prosthetic legs in the past, it was the first time that a camp has been dedicated to prosthetic arms. We have received tremendous response for the camp and we will try to organize more such camps in the future,”

Vijay Kr Pandya, Secretary of the Digambar Jain Parsvanath Homeopathic Aushdhalaya told G Plus. A seven-member team from Jaipur carried out the screening, installation and training of the patients. All the patients were taught to write with a pen, chop fruits and vegetables and even lift up to 5 kilograms of weight. Further, they were presented with a kit to practice at home. The organizers ensured to provide patients with care in the future, if they face any problems. “Our team at the Aushdhalaya has been trained to take care of patients with prosthetic hands. If the patients ever feel that they need more training in using the prosthetic arm, they can reach out to us at our Aushdhalaya and get trained for free. They can also come for free check-ups and medicines,” a member of the Aushdhalaya informed G Plus. n

Weather report for the week Guwahati

SUN

MON

TUE

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THU

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33°/26° C

32°/26° C

31°/26° C

32°/26° C

SATURDAY Storm

34°/27° C

City

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018

Pregnant woman dies, medical negligence case registered against Goenka Nursing Home

SNIPPETS Largest Britannia manufacturing unit inaugurated in Assam

Saumya Mishra saumya.mishra@g-plus.in

case was registered with the Bharalumukh police station on Monday last against the Institute of Human Reproduction (IHR), commonly known as Goenka Nursing Home, for alleged medical negligence. According to reports, a city resident, 31-year-old Nasima Sultana who was pregnant, died a few hours after she was admitted to Goenka Nursing Home for delivery on Sunday, July 15. Sultana was a dietician at a top hospital in the city. As per the FIR, when Sultana was taken to the nursing home, the doctors took her to the operation theatre for the delivery. Bharalumukh police officials told G Plus that according to the relatives of the deceased, the doctors did not conduct any tests and took Sultana straightaway to the operation theatre. After four hours, when the relatives enquired about the patient, the authorities said that her condition was critical and she would have to be shifted to another hospital. “She was then taken to Apollo Hospital where she was declared brought dead,” informed police officials. Further, the investigating officer in this case, S Rahman, informed that a case has been registered under section 304 (A)

Goenka Nursing Home | G Plus Photo of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and that investigation is ongoing. “We will have to cross check the medical reports and medicine receipts from the nursing home and only thereafter we can arrive at any conclusion,” said Rahman. Further, Sultana’s husband Kabir Dewan blamed the hospital for their negligent attitude during the entire process. “I was not given any updates

about my wife’s health by the authorities for the time she was admitted in the hospital. When the doctors came out of the operation theatre after around two hours, they informed that her condition was critical and needed to be shifted to ICU immediately. They should have at least tried to save the baby,” Dewan told G Plus. He added that since Goenka

Nursing Home does not have ICU facility, Dewan was asked by the doctors to look for a hospital with ICU. Dewan further said that they are now taking legal recourse in the case and are exploring all legal options available. G Plus reached out to Goenka Nursing Home but the authorities did not respond to our queries. n

Several reports on medical negligence puts question mark on city’s medical scenario

fter this incident, another medical negligence related to Hayat Hopsital in the city has come to the fore this week. A city resident, Sanjit Deka informed G Plus that his father was admitted in the hospital for multiple organ failure and was given medicine which was past its expiry date. However, after the relatives of the patient checked the date on the medicine and informed the authorities, the hospital officials apologised and immediately replaced the medicines. “My father is a kidney patient. He has liver cirrhosis and is also a heart patient. The hospital indents the medicines to their pharmacy and provides them to the patients. When the authorities provided the medicines to us, we

found that one of the medicines was already past its expiry date,” said Deka. He added that when they spoke to the management regarding the issue, they assured that they would take would take up the matter seriously and would take strict action. General Manager of Hayat Hospital Parag Jyoti Dutta informed G Plus, “The incident was unintentional. Unfortunately, one strip among the medicines given to the patient was expired. The strip was immediately returned to our officials by the patient’s family members before consumption.” Further, the Kamrup (Metro) District Consumer Disputes Redressal forum (DCDRF) officials informed G Plus that they receive several cases related to medical

negligence in a month. The cases range from wrong diagnosis of diseases to negligence in medical services. Officials of the DCDRF informed that such cases of medical negligence have become very frequent with at least three to four cases being filed with the consumer forum every month. In a recent case, a city resident gave his blood sample for testing to a laboratory before donating blood to a friend. However, the reports revealed that he had tested positive for HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). After this, the man consulted two doctors and on their advice, gave his blood samples for testing in two different laboratories. Both the results showed a negative result for HIV. “He then filed a case of medical

negligence against the first laboratory in which the DCDRF passed a judgement and ordered the laboratory owner to pay compensation to the complainant,” informed Mohammad Sahadat Hussain, president of the DCDRC. In another case, a woman filed a case against a city-based private hospital after her father passed away after being admitted for a week in the hospital. Member of DCDRF, Archana Deka, informed that the complainant’s father was suffering from jaundice and had stopped responding to treatment before he passed away. She alleged improper diagnosis and negligence on the part of hospital authorities and filed a case with the DCDRF. Deka said that hearing of the case is still on and a judgment yet to be delivered. n

hief Minister of Assam, Sarbananda Sonowal, today inaugurated the sprawling 22-acre Britannia manufacturing unit, touted to be the Bengaluru food-products company’s largest unit at Rampur, Kamrup (R), about 5 kilometres from Guwahati airport. The unit will cater extensively to Assam and the north-eastern states. The Rs 170-crore greenfield manufacturing unit, which was decided to be set up prior to the Advantage Assam - the global investors’ summit held here last February - will have its own state-of-the-art production line along with the capacity of producing about 60,000 tonnes of biscuits a year. Sarbananda Sonowal, in his speech said, “This is one of the many success stories of Advantage Assam. With this investment, we hope many other such investments come to this region.” During the inauguration ceremony held here, Varun Berry, Managing Director of Britannia, said that this unit will provide jobs for the local people of this region. “Our 70 per cent of the workforce is reserved for women,” Berry said. The Rampur unit is being built on the 100th year of completion of Britannia. The company has made the largest investment and largest factory campus here, Berry said. Assam Industries & Commerce minister, Chandra Mohan Patowary, who was also present at the ceremony, said “This is an industry of the people. The benefits of this unit will not be confined within Britannia, but will also help the local people”. In a bid to discourage forceful donations or as locally said, chanda by various dubious organisations, Patowary said, “If, in the fear of chanda, Britannia Industries decide to leave, remember 3,000 Assamese locals will lose their jobs. So, it is on us to maintain good working standards so that we can get more such industries churning more jobs for our youths,” he added.

City

SNIPPETS City based construction company allegedly duping money in the name of Aadhar Card

dditional Deputy Commissioner Kamrup (M) and the Nodal Officer for Aadhar Card in the district, Gunajit Kashyap, made an enquiry against Shree Balaji Construction’s office at Award Grand Tower at Dispur today. Based on a complaint received against the Balaji Construction, Kashyap made the enquiry with the help of Dispur Police. The company has allegedly collected Rs 70,000-Rs 80,000 from the people in the name of Aadhar Card in several parts of the state. In the enquiry, the officials of Balaji Construction were not able to produce any satisfactory documents which led to the suspicion. The ADC later lodged an FIR at Dispur Police Station against the construction company.

CCTV cameras to be installed in railway stations soon

fter the two heinous crimes that occurred in Assam within two days, minister of state for railways, Rajen Gohain, ordered installation of CCTV cameras in all the railway stations under Northeast Frontier Railways (NFR). Speaking to G Plus, Pranab Jyoti Sarma, CPRO of NFR said, “There are 502 stations under the jurisdiction of NFR. Nearly 100 major railway stations have CCTV cameras installed in them. We are currently working on the rest of the stations.” On July 9, the dead body of a student of Assam Agriculture University, Jorhat was found in the toilet of Kamakhya Express. The very next day, the dead body of another woman was recovered from the toilet of a coach reserved for the differently abled in the Avadh Assam Express at Mariani Junction.

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018

Fed up with online shopping sites, Guwahatians approach consumer court Saumya Mishra saumya.mishra@g-plus.in

ow city residents are not thinking twice before approaching the consumer court if they face any trouble while shopping online. This is suggested by the number of cases being filed with the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (DCDRC) in Guwahati which has been witnessing an increasing number of cases related to problems arising out of online shopping from customers. These cases are registered under negligence of services by the e-commerce websites. Authorities said that they have seen a rise of such cases over the past few months as they receive around five cases every month. The complaints against online retail portals range from late delivery of products, selling sub-standard or defective goods, to refusal to refund the amount incurred in purchase of goods and

DCDRF seeing several cases against e-commerce sites Cases filed for late delivery of products, sub-standard or defective goods Also refusal to refund the amount incurred in purchase of goods and delivering wrong products A recent case was registered against Snapdeal for delivering damaged electronic goods

File photo of District Consumer Court, Guwahati delivering wrong products. “These types of cases against e-commerce websites are relatively new as they have increased in the past few years and they were not recorded as much five years ago. In some cases, customers have also received the due compensation after the judgement of the consumer court,” informed the president of the DCDRC of Kamrup (Metro), Mohammad Sahadat Hussain. In a recent incident, a case was registered last month at the consumer court against the e-commerce website, Snapdeal, for delivering damaged electronic goods. Authorities informed that the case is still ongoing. Earlier, cases related to Flipkart and other e-commerce web-

sites have also been registered with the district consumer forum. In another case a few months ago, a resident of Guwahati had ordered a mobile phone through one of the leading online shopping websites. However, he received a bar of soap in his package. He then sent a legal notice to the online retail company asking them to send the correct product within seven days or face legal action. Officials said that in many cases, the sellers enter into a compromise with the buyers after a case is filed with the DCDRC. “The educated consumers, especially in the urban areas, are becoming more aware of their rights and are not hesitant to exercise their powers within law. We have seen an increased number of

cases being registered with the consumer court over the past few years,” informed Archana Deka Lahkar, member of the DCDRC. As per the official record, a total of 94 cases have been filed at the Kamrup (M) consumer forum in 2017 till November. Before this, 92 and 125 cases were registered with the district consumer forum in 2015 and 2016 respectively. Other categories of disputes registered with the consumer court include complaints against automobile companies and e-commerce platforms for sub-standard or defective goods, airlines and courier companies for deficiency in services, medical negligence and against mobile service providers for lack or deficiency of services. n

Lack of infrastructure, staff hortage: challenges faced by consumer forums

owever, the district consumer disputes redressal forums face their own set of challenges. For instance, shortage of staff and lack of proper infrastructure have plagued the DCDRFs across the state. The DCDRF of Kamrup (Metro) has been operating from a rented house since 1994 and currently, the posts of head assistant and bench assistant are lying vacant, informed officials. Further, the post of the second

member of the forum has also only recently been filled. Prior to this, the DCDRF functioned with only the president and a member despite the huge backlog of cases. The district consumer forum deals with dispute cases whose value is up to Rs 20 lakhs - which is the maximum compensation that can be claimed in the district-level consumer court. Cases with a value of Rs 20 lakhs – Rs 1 crore are taken up by the state consumer disputes redressal commission. Above them is the

national consumer disputes redressal commission which hears disputes where the total claim and compensation amount exceeds Rs 1 crore. Officials at the state consumer disputes redressal commission told G Plus that out of the total of 23 district forums in the state, out of which only eight are independent district forums headed by a president and 15 district consumer forums are attached to the district and sessions judges.

In these DCDRFs the district and sessions judges often remain overburdened with work which results in poor disposal rate of cases. In contrast, the SCDRC possesses good infrastructure and adequate manpower. This is reflected in the disposal rate of 87% which has increased over the years, informed officials. In total, 81 cases were filed with the SCDRC in 2015 and 109 in 2016, while 2017 saw a jump to 121 cases. n

In The News

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018

Plastic waste roads to show the way; pilot project initiated

PWD minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inspecting the under construction road made of plastic waste | G Plus Photo

Avishek Sengupta avishek.sengupta@g-plus.in

ssam Public Works Department (Roads) plans to procure plastic wastes from the city to construct roads in a bid to battle the rise in cost of road buildings and help conserve the environment in the process. Catching up with the trend of using recyclable wastes along with bitumen or as popularly known asphalt to construct roads, Assam PWD minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, had initiated a pilot project to metal a stretch of 100 metres using the same on the Kahilipara-Dakhingaon Road on July 19. “This technology is suitable for Assam as we have heavy rainfall

which damage roads. The project will help decrease environmental impact from plastic waste, reduce construction costs and build stronger and durable roads. If the pilot project is successful, we will apply this technology while constructing roads across the state,” Sarma told the media here during the launch. An Indore-based company has supplied the shredded plastic for the pilot project and is in talks with the government to set up a plant here. “As Guwahati generates the largest amount of plastic, if the pilot project proves to be successful, recyclable plastic will be procured from Guwahati mostly. Once started in Guwahati, we will then start procuring from other parts of the state too. This will help the city in reducing its pollution

and the PWD to construct at a much cheaper cost,” Prahlad Kakati, PWD assistant executive engineer (new technology cell) said. According to a recent study conducted by an NGO, Assam generates 2.99 lakh kgs of plastic every day, 37,000 kgs (17 per cent) of which is generated by the city. Assam follows Meghalaya in implementing the technology with the latter constructing a stretch of 1 km in Nongkynjang village of West Khasi Hills using plastic waste. Tamil Nadu in southern India, that currently has more than 10,000 km lain with waste-plastic mix, was among the first states in India to adopt this technology. Manipur is also planning to use plastic waste in building roads which will make it the third state in the northeast

after Assam and Meghalaya to use plastic waste in road construction. Explaining how plastic wastes are used to construct roads, Kakati said, “The process is very simple. Waste plastic bags are collected from households, roads, garbage trucks, dumping grounds, rag-pickers and waste buyers. The collected plastic is sorted according to their thickness. Generally, polythene of 60 microns or below is used in road construction. The plastic is cleaned and shredded to a size between 2.36 mm and 4.75 mm. The aggregate mixture is heated to 165 degrees Celsius, bitumen of standard specification is added and then the shredded plastic is added. The amount of plastic to be added is 8 per cent of the bitumen. The resulting mixture is laid on the road surface at 110 degrees to 120 degrees Celsius.” The waste plastic proves to be a more cost efficient method, as it does not need to be mixed with fine gravels in the last layer of metalling. “Most of the times, we put three layers while constructing a road. The rock base at the bottom, the gravel mixed with tar and the last with fine gravel and asphalt. With this technology, according to our estimates, we can bring down the cost by at least Rs 21,000 per kilometre,” a PWD source said. In terms of dexterity too, this technology proved to be helpful as the first road, Jambulingam Street in Chennai, built in 2002, has not faced any major damage even after 16 years. “Waste plastic bituminous mixture helps build stronger roads with better load-carrying capacity, resistance to rainwater and water stagnation, increased binding and better bonding of the mixture, reduction in pores and potholes, reduced cost of construction and insignificant maintenance costs, apart from no plastic waste disposal problems,” Kakati said. A central government order in November 2015 had made it mandatory for all road developers in the country to use waste plastic, along with bituminous mixes, for road construction. This is to help overcome the growing problem of plastic waste disposal in the country. The technology for this was developed by the Plastic Man of India, Rajagopalan Vasudevan, a professor of chemistry at Thiagarajar College of Engineering, Madurai. Plastic pollution affects wildlife, marine life and their habitats while discarded plastic clogs drains, resulting in artificial floods. n

SNIPPETS Joint Venture agreement signed amongst 5 Oil & Natural Gas PSUs for NE Gas Grid

aking a step towards Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi’s ambitious Urja Ganga Gas Pipeline Project, a Joint Venture Agreement was signed today amongst the five Petroleum and Natural Gas PSUs viz. IOCL, ONGC, GAIL, OIL & NRL at NRL Corporate Office, Guwahati for executing the North-East Natural Gas Pipeline Grid Project. The business of the JV Company shall be to develop, build, operate and maintain the Natural Gas Pipeline Grid connecting Guwahati to the major North-Eastern cities and major load centers like Numaligarh Refinery etc. including integrating it with gas producing fields, wherever feasible, in North East India. The estimated length of the proposed NE Natural Gas Pipeline Grid is around 1500 Kms having an estimated project cost of Rs. 6000 crores. The tentative time schedule for commissioning this NG Gas Grid will be four years, including one year pre-project activities. The Joint Venture Company will have equal equity contribution from all the JV partners for development of this Natural Gas Pipeline Project. The Gas Grid Project will connect the State capitals of all the 8 North Eastern States, namely, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim. The Gas Grid Project will connect all NE States to the National Gas Grid through Barauni-Guwahati Gas Pipeline being laid by GAIL. From Guwahati, the pipeline will extend to Numaligarh, Dimapur, Kohima and Imphal in one direction; Shillong, Silchar, Aizawl and Agartala in the second direction and to Itanagar in the third direction. Gangtok will be connected from Siliguri from the gas pipeline of GAIL coming from Barauni to Guwahati. The Joint Venture Agreement was signed by Shri H K Singh, ED (Project) from IOCL, Shri R Kaul, GM-ChiefBD & JV from ONGC, Shri D M Rao, CGM (PD) from GAIL, Shri B K Mishra, CGM(PL) from OIL and Shri A K Bhattacharya, Sr.CGM (Corporate Affairs) from NRL in presence of other senior executive from these companies.

Ward Watch

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018

Harrowing commuting experience at Jayanagar with broken roads, no traffic signals Avishek Sengupta avishek.sengupta@g-plus.in

n Ward Watch this week, G Plus focuses on Jayanagar in Ward No 31 which is facing a unique commuting problem due to incomplete roads post pipeline laying works and non-functional traffic signals A stretch of 1.5 km road in Ward No 31, dug up for laying water pipelines and since left incomplete for the last six months, remains a bone of contention for the residents and commuters alike in Jayanagar. The left side of the two-lane road from Six Mile to Jayanagar Charali has undergone several major works – pipe laying works for the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) project to provide water to southeast Guwahati, optical fibre laying works for Reliance Jio 4G connectivity and water supply links for the Basistha-based army camp from Narengi. While almost every road in the city has been dug up over certain stretches for the three ongoing water projects that are pending completion, the problem is unique in this region as somewhere in the middle - a stretch of about 200 to 250 metres – the dug up underground network goes right through the middle of the road, making that stretch an

Concentrated Area

Jayanagar Road (31 A) Ward No:

Population of the Ward:

58,000

Voter Population:

24,300

Population of Jayanagar Road:

The Jayanagar Road in dilapidated condition | G Plus Photo accident prone area. “The pipeline works had started from Narengi and via the VIP Road, it goes till the Jayanagar Charali. But here, it goes through the middle of the road making it impossible for the commuters to avoid the broken parts. Loose gravel and

sand make it very difficult for two-wheeler riders. Often, their wheels skid and people fall here. The accidents around have increased,” Arunabh Saikia, a student at NERIM, a private college in the vicinity, said. The residents said that the problem began in June last

Non-operational traffic signals create confusion in Jayanagar Charali he traffic signals at the Jayanagar Charali have been non-operational for the last two-three months. This, coupled with unregulated parking and the dilapidated roads, is creating confusion and traffic congestion in the area. According to the traffic police on duty at the traffic signal - a move necessitated after the traffic signals stopped working - the reason why the same has happed working is non-payment of bills. “Only when the traffic load is too high, a traffic official is deputed where there are traffic signals already. This traffic signal has not been functioning for the last two weeks. As far as my knowledge goes, payment of the electric bills for the traffic signals was pending following which the

“After Jio’s work, we had just two potholes and a leaking pipeline here. Water used to ooze out at certain times of the day and that would make a stretch of 20-30 metres of the road muddy with slush. Soon after, the army people came and mended the leak in the pipeline, but somehow, water kept oozing out again,” Biplab Kalita, a shop owner in the vicinity said. Kalita further added, “The condition has worsened after the water pipeline laying works in January this year. Several parties have come and dug it up, but none have mended the road.” Residents complained that besides difficulties in commuting, the dust pollution along the road has also increased. Samrat Sarkar, a resident of the area said, “The PWD had brought sand and big rocks and just laid them out. When the road gets too bad, they come and readjust the rocks. But this road has not seen any pitch-work since it was dug.” n

connections were cut off,” Dhiren Sarma, the constable deputed here said. The Jayanagar Charali, along with the Jayanagar Road, has seen a lot of development over the last decade with several new shops sprouting here. With two hospitals in the vicinity – GNRC Six Mile and Agile Hospital at Jayanagar Charali – the area bustles with activity till late into the night. This aside, the Jayanagar-Beltola Road has been converted into a Sunday bazar during which there is an inevitable traffic jam that

nly when the traffic load is too high, a traffic official is deputed

occurs in the area. “Sundays are especially crowded. One single personnel cannot control the crowd. When the traffic signals were operational, it was somewhat regulated,” Sarma further added. He also added that the situation is further aggravated by unregulated parking in the area. Another commuter, Prabin Kalita said, “Sundays are the worst, but this stretch is very confusing as it is. Firstly, the roads are all broken. Then, on reaching the Charali, there are no traffic signals and vehicles from different sides are going to different directions. A major part of the roads are encroached by roadside stalls while there are double to triple parking in others. It is actually an ordeal to cross that stretch.” n

11,250

Ward Councillor:

year, when Reliance Jio workers had accidentally damaged one of the Army pipelines and it aggravated further in January this year after the JNNURM project.

Manabendra Malla Bujarbaruah

Road repair, traffic signal outside councillor’s ambit

he councillor of Ward No 31 said that the problem of dilapidated road and the non-operational traffic signal lights cannot be solved by him as it does not fall within his ambit. “I don’t have any authority here. The roads are dug by JNNURM and the signals belong to the traffic police. There isn’t much I can do as a councillor besides reminding the concerned departments on a regular basis,” Manabendra Malla Bujarbaruah, the councillor said. “I had informed the traffic department within a week of the traffic lights becoming nonfunctional. I was told that the problem will be solved soon. But it has remained the same since,” said Bujarbaruah. As for the roads, he said, “I had contacted the PWD regarding the same and had also suggested if I could build the road from the

councillor’s fund. But I was told that in the water projects, along with the digging, funds have been released for repairing the road as well. If JNNURM does not repair it, they will commission the PWD to do the same. I cannot interfere in it.” He further added, “In June, when the first furrows had appeared, I had asked the PWD to mend the roads. But there was a crisis of building materials that the city faced. It became very difficult for the department to repair the roads. However, I was told that the department had listed this road among the ones that need repairing, and it has started repairing as per its priority list. Once those are done, they promised that this road will also be repaired. But before that, the water pipeline laying works had started,” Bujarbaruah said. n

City

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018

SNIPPETS DGP inaugurates ‘Reception Rooms’ at city police stations

Members of The Advertising Club, Guwahati posing for a photograph after the conclusion of the AGM

3rd AGM of The Advertising Club, Guwahati held on 19th July, 2018

he Annual General Meeting 2017-18 of The Advertising Club, Guwahati was held yesterday. The Advertising Club, Guwahati is the premier body of the region’s advertising, media and communications industry which was launched in 2014 by Madison World Chairman,

Sam Balsara. The meeting showcased the work done by the organization last year and set a road map for the current year which includes student outreach programs, speaker series, digital industry newsletter, etc. Most of the members and many representatives of the corporate houses attended the

event. The club intends to breathe creativity and innovation into the advertising industry in this region. Aimed at rewarding and recognizing work that is setting benchmarks in the regional communications industry, The Ad Club also intends work to towards further enhancement of talent in the media

and communications industry. The Advertising Club, Guwahati is open for memberships from representatives of client organizations (advertisers), professionals and students apart from members of the industry. It has 26 Primary General Members including the city’s premier media houses and advertising agencies. n

Passport verification process at police stations delays delivery, citizens facing trouble Saumya Mishra saumya.mishra@g-plus.in

esidents are facing a tough time with the passport verification process in the city. They have alleged that bribes are being taken for police verification across different police stations in the city. People have also alleged that the entire process of passport verification is sometimes very slow and delivery of their passports takes a lot of time, creating a problem for those who need their passports urgently. A city resident, Bipin Hazarika, who had applied for the passports for his parents 10 days ago told G Plus that at the police verification stage, when they went to verify their documents at the Bharalumukh police station, the police of-

ficials demanded a bribe. He, however, refused to pay them and also approached higher authorities to complain about the matter. “They were asking for Rs 500 to Rs 1000 to verify the documents but we did not pay them. I hope that the passports do not get delayed because of this,” said Hazarika. When approached, officer-incharge of Bharalumukh police station, Manikant Chamuah, said that they will now conduct the passport verification online which would be a huge relief to the residents. Further, regarding the alleged bribes being asked for by the police officials, he said that he has instructed the personnel in his police station not to take any bribe from anyone. In another instance, a resident of Athgaon, Yash Jain, informed that after a smooth document ver-

People standing in queue outside the Passport Seva Kendra, Guwahati ification process at the regional passport office, the police verification process took a lot of time for him. He had applied for the passport along with his sister. Interestingly, his verification too was also in Bharalumukh police station where the officials asked him for a bribe of Rs 500 per person. “We had to go to the police station thrice for the police verification as the officials asked us to get different documents every time.

After the passports did not arrive for a long time, we finally went to the SP office to check,” said Jain, adding that they came to know from the SP office that their documents were all clear but the passports were yet to reach them. Finally, the passport reached Jain after a month, he informed. Similarly, many passport verification requests remain pending with various police stations in the city and in some cases the police take around two to three months to complete the verification. According to sources in Crime & Criminal Tracking Network and Systems (CCTNS), the police verification process is expected to be completed within 15 days, which is currently taking longer. Further, staff shortage at police stations across the city is also one of the reasons for the delay in police verification, informed authorities. n

ith the intention to make police stations more people-friendly and treat visitors in a disciplined and polite manner, Director General of Police, Kuladhar Saikia, on July 17, inaugurated a reception counter at Panbazar police station. The same has been replicated in police stations across the city. A total of 47 receptionists, who happen to be women constables, have undergone special training on how to handle visitors and will be directly reporting to their respective officers-in-charge. It is to be mentioned that the women police constables underwent two days of training for the program on July 9-10. They were trained in soft skills by Anjan Choudhury of the Indian Skills Academy while Indrani Phukan, head of Public Relations at Vivanta by Taj, Guwahati trained them in public relations.

Transport authorities to take strict action against illegal taxis

amrup District Transport Officer, Rafiqul Mannan, and Secretary of the Regional Transport Authority, Bapan Kalita, while addressing a press meet on 17th July, revealed that strict action will be taken against illegal Ola-Uber cabs. The District Transport Authority said that only 460 “local cabs” and 1,114 “metro cabs” in Guwahati have permission to run under OlaUber aggregator services. However, it has come to light that currently, 10,000 OlaUber cabs are operating daily in the city. More than 7,000 cabs are illegally running in Guwahati. The transport authorities have mentioned that the cabs which run in Guwahati with the mobile apps should attain “local taxi” permits but most of them are running with “three-states” permits.

14 E

G Talk D

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018

A diamond forever

he last occasion when Assamese hearts swelled with pride was when singer Debojeet Saha, of Silchar, buoyed by the huge SMS support and the good wishes of AASU, won a singing reality show on ZEE TV. What we had then reckoned as a momentous achievement by an Assamese on the national scene has somewhat faded, and rather quickly. What was supposed to be a magnificent platform for a career launch was perhaps not used appropriately by Saha so much so that today, he is nothing but a faint memory and his singing prowess not even part of the cultural folklore of Assam. And today, how monumentally different is Hima Das’s achievement! No SMSes, no public support, no nothing! Just her single-minded endeavour is what catapulted her to international glory. And so, in tandem with all the paeans being sung in her name and discussions going on over various social media, and having observed all available videos on her including the National Anthem being played while her tears shed on the podium, what we have today in Hima is a precious diamond, who, at her young age, has shown

an exemplary level head and solid leadership qualities. Hima is that uncut diamond that needs to be polished further so that she shines brightly on the world stage for years to come. Well, this will not happen with perfunctory positions like Sports Brand Ambassador et al. Nor will it come with product endorsement offers and public “xombordhonas.” Hima needs to be made comfortable in her own space of high-quality training, correct diet and the required hours of rest. She needs to be treated as specially as a proper world champion should be. And above all, she should not be hounded by our local media for that ever precious byte that would bolster TRPs. Her obvious target is an Olympic gold and the earliest she can achieve that is 2020. For someone who has achieved what she has within the first 18 months of her career, this is ample time for preparation. The Asian Games in August may be treated as a huge match practice – a stepping stone for Olympic glory. And the powers-that-be need to do everything to ensure that this diamond of ours shines forever. Swapnil Bharali Editor

The Internet is now Neutral!

he penetration of internet is at an all time high. The mobile tele-density in metro cities and most tier-2 cities now has crossed well over 100% (Tele-density: No of telephones per 100 persons). With so many mobile phones, the consumption of data is equally peaking. People are consuming content from various sources including news feeds, social media feeds, YouTube and the recently aggressive, OTT platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime and Hotstar. India’s Telecom Commission approved the Net Neutrality laws as put forward by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) which now means that internet service providers (ISP)/telecoms cannot be impartial in giving internet speed and data to surf. To make it simpler, a telecom service/ISP could have a tie up with a large content company and give faster loading speeds to the companies tied up with them to surf their content exclusively. This also means that telecom operators could ‘kill the competition.’ The failure to implement Net Neutrality would also mean that your ISP has control over what content you consume. This ironically would be the failure of the internet. The internet is integral to us because it is ‘free space’ for everyone and nondiscriminatory in nature. You and I can both surf the same content with our separate ISPs with our respective data packs. But why am I talking about this now? Well, because this decision came in on 11th July and is a welcome move in an era when curbing freedom of speech, violation of privacy and discriminatory treatment is always making the headlines. Good to see some neutral sense prevailing in this case. The follow up for the telecom department must include strict monitoring and enforcement of net neutrality and ensure that in the years to come, this law stays nondebatable and unchallenged. Sidharth Bedi Varma

The degrading TV talk shows

ith the advent of technology, people nowadays have become globally more aware, with the mindset to develop their knowledge regarding crucial/ pivotal issues concerning the society. And that is the reason, more often than not, that people express their views and opinions verbally sometimes (especially on TV talk shows) or via detailed written analysis otherwise. Now, if we bring into consideration expression of views over TV talk shows, we will notice that these talk shows, of late, have created a great deal of consternation more because of certain outrageous acts committed by some panellists. But prior to discussing this topic further, let us have a clear idea about the actual constitution of a talk show. A talk show can be defined as, “a staging, where a topic is to be discussed/debated by a group of people known as panellists and there also exists a person known as the host or anchor who initiates the topic under discussion with the motive of seeking the views of the panellists.” However, in the present scenario, a few more execrable elements also get attached with talk shows. Elements like violence, indecency, moral deficiency, hollering and most importantly, the tendency to impose one’s views on another (irrespective of whether they are logical or not) have indeed become some of the distressing factors in modern talk shows. Nevertheless, despite all these, talk shows are still popular among the people only because the bevy wants to form or develop their opinions on crucial topics by

watching a particular talk show. Even news channels are giving due importance in airing the same. But the point that we need to ponder over here is: what are the factors that have actually made talk shows a necessary evil with less of ethics and zero etiquette? The fact of the matter is that undue aggression bordering on violence has sadly become an “indispensable” facet of a talk show. The recent incident of one panellist assaulting a co-panellist over a verbal spat on the topic of ‘Triple Talaq’ has once again put a question mark on the probity of the panellists as well as on the nucleus of talk shows. And that is the reason that, with each passing day, the standard of talk shows

he recent incident of one panellist assaulting a co-panellist over a verbal spat on the topic of ‘Triple Talaq’ has once again put a question mark on the probity of the panellists.

has unfortunately degraded greatly. It’s now high time that we find solutions to solve this vexed issue and revamp the standards of talk shows. It is a known fact that the Constitution of India, via its article 19(1) (a), guarantees all citizens the freedom of speech and expression. An elaborate explanation of this would mean that any citizen of India has the right to express his views or opinions either verbally or in writing. And for the enforcement of this provision, the talk shows are quite important. But somewhere down the line, while enjoying the rights guaranteed by this article, people tend to forget the restrictions that are also imposed by the Constitution on the freedom of speech and expression. Article 19(2) of the Indian Constitution clearly mentions that the freedom of speech and expression can only

rThe menace of child trafficking

O pinion Bishaldeep Kakati

be enjoyed without disturbing the security of the state, public order, decency, morality etc and also without causing a clear case of defamation or incitement to an offence. But it seems that certain panellists, who are invited to talk shows, never care to remember these restrictions as a result of which they indulge in wrangles and brawls only to create some diabolic scenarios. Moreover, under the eyes of law, an injury to the reputation of a person by venting a defamatory statement by words or gestures - is known as slander (defamation). According to law of torts, slander is actionable on proof of special damage. So basically, by attacking one another, the panellists in the talk shows do more civil wrongs than find solutions through healthy discussions. Added to this, in India, we had a wonderful and strong tradition of reasoned and well-structured philosophical discussion known as ‘Katha.’ ‘Katha’ was again divided into ‘Vaada’ ‘Jalpa’ and ‘Vitandaa’. In Vaada form of debate, an effort is made to listen to the views of all the people peacefully and then come to a logical conclusion. Jalpa, on the other hand, is a tricky debate, in which a debater is thoroughly convinced that he is right and the other is wrong. The last one is Vitandaa, is where a person has no theory of his own to put forward or defend, but only tries to inflict defeat on his opponent or humiliate/demolish him. Indeed today, there is more Vitandaa than Vaada, and that is the primary reason for degradation of the talk shows. However, for a democratic country like India, discussions and deliberations are quite important and so the importance of talk shows cannot be discarded. But in order to maintain the dignity of talk shows, the panellists must display better behaviour and discuss the crucial topics broadly so that it can enrich the viewers as well as help the government take important decisions based on their critical analysis. Only then will the actual intention of talk shows remain intact. n

Letter to the Editor

he recent incident in which a 16-year-old girl from Adabari was rescued by Jalukbari Police from Rajasthan, has once again brought the issue of child trafficking to the focus. The number of cases which are actually reported are just the tip of the iceberg. Officials say that several cases go unreported. There are several cases which come to light where minor girls are lured by various traffickers or middlemen and are taken to different states where they are often exploited and sometimes sold off. The need of the hour in such a scenario is for the authorities to increase their vigilance in various places through which vulnerable girls are trafficked. For instance, railway stations and bus stands. Further, stricter punishment is required for all those who are involved in this atrocious crime for the fear of punishment is needed to deter the criminals.

Akshaya Sarma Chandmari, Guwahati

In Focus

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018

Tora Khasgir Supermodel, former actress, grooming expert

all, beautiful and sexy, Tora Khasgir Borhani is an Indian supermodel of yesteryears, a former actress and a grooming expert. With a career spanning over 25 years, Tora found her footing by chance after being crowned the first runner-up at Miss Guwahati beauty pageant in 1993. Since then, there has been no looking back for this Assamese beauty. Born in Nagaon district of Assam, Tora did most of her schooling from All Saints Diocesan Higher Secondary School, Shillong. However, she gave class 10 matriculation exams from Loyola English Medium High School, Nagaon and higher secondary education in arts from Handique Girls’ College, Guwahati. She went on to acquire a diploma in Naturopathy from All India Institute of Naturopathy and a degree in Neurotherapy from Dr Lajpatrai Mehra Ashram. Describing herself as an ‘accidental model’, Tora told G Plus, “Ever since I was a young girl, I was more interested in athletics, National Cadet Corps (NCC) and other extra-curricular activities than in studies.”

Having cleared most of the NCC certificates, Tora was among the youngest cadets to be selected from the northeast to represent the region. She has also had the honour to lead the Guard of Honour for the Prime Minister’s rally in New Delhi for the RDC parade. Further, she was among the 22 cadets selected to represent India in Canada. In school and college level sports events, not only did Tora win in most of the sports like 100/200 meters’ sprint, javelin and shotput, she has also won the best allround athlete award a few times. “I was never the one who wanted to get into this profession. My friends pulled me into it and submitted my form for Miss Guwahati. Back then, I sported a crew cut, wore baggy clothes and had no idea how to walk in a saree. Even though I won the first runner-up at the pageant, I thought that that was it and went back to sports and NCC until a renowned city-based designer spotted me and gave me the push I needed,” recalled Tora, speaking to G Plus. Tora, who shifted to Mumbai soon after her 12th board

examinations, has walked the ramps of A-list fashion designers of the country and abroad and worked with top models like Madhu Sapre, Milind Soman, Aishwarya Rai, Katrina Kaif and Anushka Sharma to name a few. As an actress, Tora is known for her work in Pyaar Mein Kabhi Kabhi... (1999), Dillagi (1999), Asambhav (2004), and Victoria No. 203: Diamonds Are Forever (2007). 5 feet 9 inches tall and with a body that could defrost the freezer, Tora took over Mumbai with her looks and walk. She was a Femina Miss India finalist in 1997, and the same year she was crowned the winner of Britannia Gladrags Mega Model. She has also been crowned first runner-

up of Savvy Cover Girl contest 1996 (where she represented the whole of east India in Bombay). Tora went on to participate in and win beauty pageants across the globe, including the prestigious Lakme Fashion Week. She was also associated with Gladrags as a celebrity grooming and training expert for a few years where she trained contestants of both Megamodel and Manhunt contests. There, she has trained noted models like Candice Pinto, Randeep Hooda, John Abraham and Aanchal Kumar. In 2003, Tora won the Best Asian Model in the World award. She was also recently selected among the top 51 women

of substance and is a recipient of the Northeast Cultural Icon Award from Ramoji Film City. One of the very few models to have worked with all rival brands – Slice, 7 Up, Limca, Tora has modelled in advertisements for Harley Davidson, Eveready, Levis, Hero Honda, etc. She has featured on the cover of Health Magazine for many years and had also done their first ad campaign. “From the small city of Guwahati to Mumbai, the journey has been a roller coaster ride. I believe that to reach a certain level, there’s always a fast way and a hard way. I think I took the hard way,” Tora told G Plus. Tora shifted back to Guwahati around 4 years ago. Currently, she’s married to Reza Borhani, a cinematographer and doctor who she married in Australia. She’s a mother of three – a 10 year old boy and a twin boy and girl. She spends her time indulging in social work towards women empowerment in the region and provides training, grooming and personality development sessions to young talents. She has also been judging regional as well as national beauty pageants. In the coming month, Tora along with Mr India World 2007, Kawaljit Anand, will be conducting a personality development session in the city for all the aspiring models.

Do you think the government’s decision to make Hima Das the state’s Sports Brand Ambassador is correct? Nazoo Glan Don’t engage her in nitty-gritty of government please till she brings an Olympic medal for our country. Also I request all companies to restrain from using her for advertisements and endorsements of their products till 2020. Let her concentrate for the Olympics. After the Olympics they can do as they like. Her field is sports so she should concentrate on it now. Bringing medals for the nation is a very big thing and difficult. So if she gets involved in such things right now maybe it will affect her career. She has a long way to go. Dibyangshu Baruah A sports person will know better how to improve the facilities and the needs of athletes. They are associated with sports federations and well know what areas the government is lacking in providing proper facilities to the young talents of the country. So the brand ambassador should be an athlete like the young pride of Assam, Hima Das. I strongly support government’s decision of making her the brand ambassador of the state. Sunanda Chamuah No, I don’t think so that the government’s decision to make Hima Das the state’s Sports Brand Ambassador is correct because she is too young for it. Please let her inspire and give every support in the field of sport so that she can touch the sky. Don’t humiliate her with politics. Brand ambassador is nothing. Don’t create obstacles in her career. We want to see her in the highest position in the world of sports. Rather the government should work on these fields to improve sports in our country so that more such talented people can bring laurels for us.

Zest Jeo Hima Das should get world class facilities first so that she can get a medal in the Olympic Games. She should concentrate on what she is doing right now. After her retirement possibly she can be made the sports ambassador as by then she will have a good knowledge of sports and the problems faced by all sports persons. I don’t think the decision made by the government is right! Satya Ranjan Sarmah No! I don’t think the decision of making Hima Das the brand ambassador of state is correct. Assam is not a brand to sell. Hima Das should be given ample help and time to prepare and get a medal at the Olympics. Don’t make her go to those useless public meetings to promote government schemes. The government should work on its part and provide opportunities and facilities to the young sporting talents of our nation. Rumi Baruah I have a question to ask! Did anyone know who Hima Das was before she got a medal for our country? Did the government help her enough or provide all facilities which a sports person requires to represent the country in international games? Well no. She worked hard and faced tough times to get to the place where she is today. Why is it that in our country all fame and facilities are provided to a person after they have got something for the nation? The government should actually think that if proper training, facilities, motivations etc. whatever is necessary is given on time, not only Hima Das but hundreds of people who are associated in this field from our country can get medals for us. So, now making her the sports ambassador is like getting in the good books after her achievement.

Feature

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018

What does our GAMOCHA mean to us? Sankhya Samhita

Author

ast Friday (13th July) I woke up to some wonderful news. A young girl from a small town in Assam had made history by becoming the first Indian to win a Gold Medal in a track event at the World Junior Athletics Championship. I watched the video of the event. I watched Hima Das touch the ground, bring it to her chest and then to her lips, praying to the Gods to be with her as she braced herself for the race. I heard the gunshot, watched the women start running and squinted to observe Hima Das’s nimble form. I tuned out the rest of the commentary, wondering why she was nowhere in the lead for the first 30 seconds until I finally spotted her, and heard the words: “But here comes Hima Das! The Indian is surging! She can see the line, she can see history! India’s never won any medal in a track event, but DAS HAS DONE

IT HERE! Brilliant! 51.47. History made in Tampere.” I felt the lump in my throat around the same time, but then I saw that victorious smile on her face and I watched her walk up to her coach who handed her the Indian flag, and draped the gamocha around her neck. And that’s when I lost it, breaking down completely, laughing and crying

he author, an NRI, writes about the significance of the humble Asomiya Gamocha to the identity of the Assamese as a community

at the same time with no idea why the sight of that simple white and red cloth draped around the neck of this amazing girl, was tearing my heart into pieces. About two hours later, when I could finally watch the video without tearing up, I talked to my Deuta and told him about how I couldn’t stop crying when I saw the gamocha around her neck. Deuta told me he’d felt it too… those goose bumps on my skin and that lump in my throat. We talked about how proud this girl has made us, and how I wanted to fist bump in the air and go, ‘Yes! This is what I am talking about! This is the Assam everyone must know about!’ So what was it about the gamocha that made me so emotional? What did that seemingly humble rectangular piece of cloth mean to me? A volley of images came rushing through…. The almost threadbare but unbelievably soft cloth that worked as a hand-towel and hung from a rod next to the wash basin, the red faded to a near pink from multiple washes… Aita tying a gamocha around her waist as tightly as she could for support as she pruned some plants in our backyard… Deuta being felicitated at some meeting and coming home with a brand new gamocha that would be all stiff and starch-ironed… Ma preparing a ceremonial xorai and covering

it with a gamocha before offering it in front of the Kirtan at our thapona… Aita taking the gamocha off her neck and using it to wipe the ground in the naamghor before we touched our head to the ground and bowed in front of the Lord... Ma handing me a silk gamocha and telling me it was to be kept separately for my groom… My unpacking our Kirtan at our Vietnam home and wrapping it in that gorgeous gamocha that had been gifted to my husband, spending long minutes admiring the intricate work all over it… my

uncle gifting my one-year old her very own gamocha with her name lovingly woven on it by my aunt… I started to write a post, but then I changed my mind. I realised that I can’t possibly be the only person who feels this way about our gamocha, and so I decided to seek help from friends and family. I sent a message to some of my friends, and asked them to send me a few lines about what the gamocha means to them, and if they have any specific memories related to gamocha.

The first thing that everyone said was that that our gamocha is our identity. It is an icon of the Assamese culture after all, just like our japi and pepa. One cannot really think of the Assamese society without bringing to mind the image of the gamocha. Sohel Da, who is the General Secretary of the Assam Association in Singapore, also mentioned that, “it signifies the very essence of being Assamese.” Nidarshana Ba, who lives in Hyderabad says that while she never really gave the gamocha a thought until she left Assam, now it has become “an insignia of our Assamese identity. So unique in its colours and patterns… it stands out.” Interestingly, Nidarshana Ba has turned the gamocha into a piece of art worth displaying. She has framed two of them and hung them on her wall in her Hyderabad house, making sure that it is the first thing that guests see when they enter her

living room. My Deuta mentioned feeling proud each time someone felicitated him with a gamocha, while Himangshu, a family friend who currently lives in Malaysia, said that the gamocha itself is a symbol of pride for him. My friend Amrita, who also happens to live in Singapore and loves my luchialoo bhaji breakfasts, adds that to her it is the highest honour. It is a symbol of respect and regard after all, like Ananya, an assistant professor in Tezpur University (but more importantly, a former band-mate) says. To many of us, gamocha and Bihu are so intricately intertwined, that Bihu is incomplete without the Bihuwan, the form gamocha takes when offered as a token of love during the Assamese

New Year. My husband has fond memories of being offered a Bihuwan every single year by his Abu (his grandmother) right from when he was a young kid. Even now, my mother-in-law sets three gamochas aside for the three of us (my little one not dismissed by any means) each Bihu. To my husband, it is that thread that connects him to home. What is unique about the gamocha, in my eyes, is its versatility. Nowhere else have I seen such a homely everyday object being regarded with so much respect and veneration. For the longest time, I had treated the gamocha like nothing more than

a towel. Not surprising, since it literally translates to something to wipe your body (ga = body; mocha = wipe). A gamocha could have a very long lifeline, depending on how it was being used. Because it soaks wonderfully, and dries very fast as well, it makes for a very convenient travel companion. Satyakam Da who works at Indian Revenue Service recalls this time when he used it as a headscarf in Leh, “when it was too cold and I didn’t even have a monkey cap!” I asked him all earnestly if it provided enough warmth. Pat came the reply, “It had the love of Assam in it. How could it not be warm enough?” Adil Hussain Da (yes, the award-winning actor) believes that “Gamocha is an extension of our selves. It’s almost like a part of our biology. Once it is resting on our body, we feel like we are rooted, and yet, we can take off! It’s like an organ. It is a mirror reflecting the smell, sound and taste of our Land.” I think I know exactly what he means when he says it feels like a part of our own body. And yet, no spiritual ritual is complete without the gamocha. We don’t bow our head in front of the Lord unless we have a gamocha around our neck. It is the ultimate sign of respect. So what does the gamocha really mean to me? Everything! I have a big stack of gamocha that I have been carrying with me through all the countries that we have lived in, and to me, it is still my most prized possession, because each one of them has a different memory attached to it. As for the gamocha around Hima Das’s neck, may it be the first thing that comes to people’s mind whenever they recall the moment a young girl made history in Tampere. n Sankhya Samhita was born and brought up in Tezpur and currently resides in Singapore. She is the author of the book 'Revelations of an Imperfect Life.'

Trotter

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018

Employee walks 32 kms to reach workplace, gets car from boss

Georgia police toss coin to decide whether to arrest woman

man who was willing to walk 20 miles (32 kilometres) to reach on time on his first day of work has been rewarded for his dedication. Walter Carr from Alabama was supposed to start his new job with a moving company. However, when he realised that his car had broken down before his first day at his new job with Bellhops, Walter began to walk to his place of work. He started walking at midnight in order to reach on time. Pelham Police spotted Walter in the early hours of the day, after he had been walking for four hours from Homewood to Pelham. The officers then bought him breakfast and drove him to work - a home in Pelham where Walter's company Bellhops was scheduled to help move a family. The officers who gave him a ride shared his story with the homeowner, Jenny Lamey - who shared it with the world in a viral Facebook post praising Walter. "He was from New Orleans. He

and his mother lost their home in Hurricane Katrina and they came and made their home in Birmingham," she related. "I asked Walter if he wanted to go upstairs and rest until everyone else arrived," wrote Jenny. However, even after having walked for hours, Walter refused to rest. When news of Walter's journey reached the CEO of Bellhops, he decided to do something special for the dedicated employee. CEO Luke Marklin gifted

Walter his 2014 Ford Escape car. Walter's story has touched a chord with many on the internet, including Pelham Police, who praised him in a Twitter post. "So nice to hear an uplifting story in this messed up world! We need more Walters!" wrote one commenter on Facebook. "Great job Walter. Proud to see young people who are determined to do the right thing and are trustworthy," said another. (Source: republicworld)

Viral video of boy rolling up, down road in a tyre amazes Anand Mahindra

y now anyone who spends a decent amount of time on Twitter is aware of Anand Mahindra’s #WhatsAppWonderBox - the source of some rather interesting and entertaining videos and photos. In a recent tweet, the business tycoon made a wonderful new update on Twitter from the same ‘WhatsApp wonder box’. This time Mahindra tweeted a video of a

child playing on the streets with a regular old tyre. However, it’s not only the impressive video but Mahindra’s tweet posted with it that’s won major love on the micro-blogging site. The clip has been circulating for a while now and chances are you’ve already seen it. For those who haven’t, it shows a boy sitting inside an old tyre and rolling down a street with a slight slope. What’s more impressive is how the boy uses his legs to roll back up the street. Mahindra posted the video on July 14 with a message for his team. “Let’s never fail to be driven by children & how they invent new ways to experience the joy of movement,” he tweeted. Since being posted, the tweet has collected over 12,800 ‘likes’

and more than 2,900 retweets. “#TheJoyOfMovement... After all vehicles are not just meant to be driven from point A to point B... Enjoy the journey in between,” said one Twitter user. “Wow this surely made my day. How nicely described, so innovative and innocent fun,” said another. Anand Mahindra has earlier posted some gems from his #WhatsAppWonderBox. He posted about a ‘Shoe Doctor’ who he said has a future at IIM and later even tracked him down with the help of his team. He also tweeted about a fan seller from Mumbai who was also tracked down by his team after Mahindra was left impressed by an old viral clip of the boy. (Source: ndtv)

Maharashtra allows outside food in multiplexes, Netizens plan meals

he Maharashtra government recently announced that starting August 1, moviegoers would be free to carry their own snacks to multiplexes. Maharashtra Food & Civil Supplies Minister Ravindra Chavan assured the state legislature that, “there is no ban on patrons carrying outside food to multiplexes but if the multiplex authorities prohibit it, they could face action.” The news came as welcome relief to many as multiplexes are often criticised for

the exorbitant rates they charge. To celebrate the change, many on social media jokingly began to plan their meals. In recent weeks, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) carried out agitations and protests inside various multiplexes in Mumbai, Thane, Pune and other cities where a popcorn pack costing Rs 5 outside was sold for Rs 250 inside. The agitations also received public support - even on social media platforms. (Source: indiatvnews)

wo police officers in Georgia have been suspended after they used a coin toss to decide whether to arrest a 24-year-old motorist they had stopped for speeding, police said. The officers stopped the motorist in April when she was running late for work at an Atlanta hair salon and sped past them at around 80 miles (130 km) per hour on a wet road, according to a police statement and video footage of the incident released by a local television station. The two female police officers then discussed whether to give motorist Sarah Webb a speeding ticket or arrest her for reckless driving, according to a police statement released. They decided to flip a coin to decide it: heads, arrest; tails, release, according to the statement by the Roswell Police Department. Officer Courtney Brown

used a coin flip app on her mobile phone and the toss went against Webb, with Brown and the other officer, Kristee Wilson, giggling as they began to write up charges, according to the video. Atlanta news station, 11 Alive, alerted Webb of the footage. Webb filed a request to see it, and its release led to all charges being dropped against her at a July 9 court hearing. Webb could not be immediately reached for comment. “I am appalled that any law enforcement officer would trivialize the decision-making process of something as important as the arrest of a person,” Roswell Police Department Chief, Rusty Grant, said in the statement, adding that an investigation had been launched and the officers were on administrative leave. (Source: reuters)

Tattoo addict removes genitals because of interference with his ‘aesthetic enjoyment’

man who has had 90 per cent of his body covered in black ink decided to have his genitals removed after they ‘interfered with the aesthetic enjoyment’ of his blackened physique. Adam Curlykale, 32, from Kaliningrad in Russia decided to begin to tattoo his body after he was diagnosed with cancer. Adam, who even has his eyeballs tattooed, also has albinism and felt depressed by his pale skin. After getting to a whopping 90 per cent tattoo coverage, he felt that his penis ruined his look. So he paid to undergo the extreme surgery. Adam shared pictures with his fans on social media after he had his penis, nipples and testicles removed. He became famous in 2017 after taking part in the TV show “Second Face” in Poland where he said he wanted the tattoos to cover the blemishes that were left behind by the cancer. He eventually beat the cancer but while in recovery he had been left with a weakened immune system and was depressed by this and the fact that his skin looked sickly and pale. When doctors diagnosed

him with albinism, he started adding tattoos, and discovered a passion for the art once he saw the results. He said, “I always knew that I was different from the rest of society. “My favourite colour, for example, has always have been grey, in different tones, and that’s why my current skin colour is graphite.” He said, “I design my tattoos because it’s my body. I have a specific vision for myself and I do it step by step. Life is so short that I stopped wondering what will happen tomorrow. Life is here and now.” Local media reported that he had to travel to Jardines Hospital in Guadalajara in Mexico to have the operation to remove his nipples and private parts. (Source: mirror.co)

Review

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018

Starring: Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khatter, Ashutosh Rana, Kharaj Mukherjee, etc Director: Shashank Khaitan

T e w Movi vie e R

Dhadak

he film’s lead is casted by two fresh new faces- Ishaan Khatter (Shahid Kapoor’s brother) and Janhvi Kapoor (Sri Devi’s daughter) which brings out the brimming curiosity among public and it frankly works in the favour of its storyline. The movie is engaging, just like its original inspiration, the award winning Marathi movie Sairat, which shows the aspect of two people in cross-cultural love, trying to fight against the nasty world of politics and merciless societal pressure, and battling all odds for the sake of love. The film follows Sairat’s exact plot for most part, but it does change a few scenes and the setting. While it does great justice to director Manjule’s original, Sairat, Shashank Khaitan’s Hindi adaptation lacks the detailed grit and es-

sence. However, Dhadak still makes for a compelling watch. Set in Udaipur, the story begins with young love blooming in the midst of politics and a dominant class system followed by one of their influential families, tearing their love apart. When it comes to both the performances by both the new actors, Ishaan’s personality has the vigour and zest of a newcomer, while Janhvi’s radiance and endearing innocence makes you believe in their character’s love story. The highlight of the film is definitely its music. Two tracks from Sairat have been reinvented, one of which is the huge hit Zingaat, along with the movie’s title track. Overall, the movie is not as powerful as the original, but could be a good watch for audiences looking for decent fresh faces. n

Gadget Review

Vivo Nex

he Vivo Nex is indisputably Vivo's most striving smartphone to this date. It has been priced at Rs. 44,990 in India and is without doubt one of the most exclusive smartphones available right now. Before this model, screen notches had been a touchy issue about the smartphone. In order to get rid of the notch, Vivo has made some audacious and risky design choices.

Vivo Nex design

The Vivo Nex is the most finelooking smartphone that Vivo has ever released. The fingerprint scanner has moved beneath the display, and the front camera comes out in a pop-up mechanism. The USP of the Vivo Nex is

because of the magnetism he brings to his films. Some are even saying that The Rock’s ridiculous jump in the Skyscraper is a reason enough to watch the film. The storyline of the movie is that a former FBI hostage rescue Team leader and U.S. war veteran, Will Sawyer, now assesses security for skyscrapers. On assignment in China, he’s trapped along with his family in the tallest building in the world as it is suddenly set ablaze, and he’s being framed for it. Now as a wanted man on the run, Will must find those responsible, clear his name and somehow rescue his family who is trapped inside the building, above the fire line. That being said, the movie might only be worth your time if your expectations aren't through the ceilings. n definitely the pop-up module for the 8-megapixel front camera. The earpiece has also been replaced with a motor that vibrates the front glass, and the ambient light sensor lives below the display. The back of the phone has a glass grey speckled pattern and hits the right middle ground between bling and subtle. There are no colour options available other than grey. The build quality

Skyscraper, English 01:00 PM, 06:20 PM, 10:00 PM Hotel Transylvania 3: A Monster Vacation, 3D 04:15 PM Hotel Transylvania 3: A Monster Vacation, English, 3D 01:55 PM Soorma 03:25 PM, 09:15 PM Sanju 03:35 PM, 08:45 PM Ant-Man and the Wasp, English, 3D 06:35 PM

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Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Neve Campbell, Chin Han, Roland Møller Director: Rawson Marshall Thurber he movie Skyscraper certainly doesn't have an innovative plot or storyline. It's the same old story arrangement that we've seen before in movies like ‘Die Hard' where people are trapped in buildings and need to be rescued against all odds. That's pretty much the storyline of this movie as well. But opportunely, the makers are well aware of this, so they really embrace it very tactfully. Writer-director Rawson Marshall Thurber has worked with Dwayne Johnson before so he knows precisely how to put his acting skills to the best use. Dwayne is at the point in his career where he can assertively feature in even in non-creative and imitative films with full confidence that they'll do well and coast along merely

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is top-notch, and the phone feels exceptionally solid when it’s held. However, there is no microSD slot in the phone. The single loudspeaker gets reasonably loud but is kind of shrill just does not cut it.

Vivo Nex specifications, display & camera

The 6.59-inch grand display is the star of the show here. With a screen-to-body ratio of 93

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e w Movi vie e R

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percent, it dominates the front of the smartphone and looks remarkable. The viewing angles are superb and colours are vivid. The brightness of the phone’s display is also pretty impressive, and it can also be dimed enough to be able to use at night or in a dark room comfortably. The auto-focus of the back camera is really impressive with the quality of photos that come out. The front camera however is a bit disappointing.

Vivo Nex performance, software, and battery life

Nex’s performance is firstclass. It handles everything from simple day-to-day tasks to thorough workload activities with great ease. With 8GB of RAM, gaming on the phone is also quite a pleasant experience. Vivo's OS is really inspired from iPhone’s iOS. There is a Control Center with all the quick toggles like the iPhone. But it has other gestures such as turning on the flashlight by shaking

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the phone and answering calls by lifting the phone to your ear. The sheer number of these gestures and customisation options will be appreciated by some, but many users could just get overwhelmed. Multiple app crashes are said to have been experienced throughout the use. The Vivo Nex also does not offer face recognition even at this price. The battery life is quite incredible. It could be used for 12-hours a day along with about 40 percent of battery still left at the end, which is quite impressive. The usage involved around two hours of navigation using Google Maps, frequent use of social media applications including WhatsApp and Twitter, games, and taking a dozen or so selfies and photos.

Verdict

The Vivo Nex is a smartphone from the future which is stunning, with amazing battery life, and is loaded with remarkable technologies. n

Entertainment

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018

Sonowal seeks help from veteran actor Amol Palekar for Assamese film industry development

enowned filmmaker and star of yesteryears, Amol Palekar, met with Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal at the CM’s residence in Guwahati on Sunday morning, July 15, to discuss a wide range of concerns related to the Assamese film Industry. Sonowal, while conversing about the history of Assamese cinema with Palekar, asked for him to collaborate and align with the

local film personalities and chart out a roadmap for the development of the Assamese film industry. Considering the fact that films are the best means to present the state to the world, Sonowal requested Palekar to use his experience for the promotion of regional cinema and assured him that the entire film fraternity of Assam would be with him in this journey, an official release from the chief minister’s office said.

“They also talked on a film policy for Assam which will essentially act as a guideline for taking Assamese cinema forward,” the CMO statement said. Amol Palekar expressed his happiness over the pioneering role that the film personalities from Assam like Jahnu Barua, Seema Biswas and others are playing for the promotion of regional cinema and in Bollywood. The duo also talked on a film policy for Assam which will essentially act as a guideline for taking Assamese Cinema forward. Amol Palekar didn’t hold back in hailing the initiative of Chief Minister Sonowal for taking substantial policy decisions for the development of Assamese cinema, which will enable the people to look at the heritage of Assam through cultural lenses. Chairman of Assam State Film Finance Development Corporation, Jatin Bora, and its vice chairman, Abhijit Kumar Nath, were also present in the discussion.

Charlie Chaplin’s movie to be screened at Guwahati Press Club

harlie Chaplin’s iconic movie – ‘Modern Times’ is scheduled to be screened at the Guwahati Press Club on July 21, Saturday. The American comedy film produced in 1936 and written and directed by Chaplin, will be screened at 4:30 pm. The movie stars Chaplin, Paulette Goddard, Henry Bergman, Tiny Sandford and Chester Conklin. It has music by Chaplin himself and cinematography is by Ira Morgan. The time that is shown in the movie is of the Great Depression, when Chaplin’s iconic Tramp character embodies the suffering of the poor industrial worker who also happens to be generous and sensible apart from being hilariously naive. Chaplin uses humour to best display the classist society with its

Workshop on Kalaguru Bishnu Rabha’s sangeet from July 24

n extensive workshop on Kalaguru Bishnu Rabha’s sangeet, along with the discussions on his other creative pursuits, will be held from July 24 to July 29 at Gauhati Commerce College (GCC). The workshop, which is an annual event, is being organised by the Jyoti-Bishnu Sanskritik Manch in association with the GLP Social Circle and the GCC. With a view to popularize these songs among the younger generations and for making them understand and appreciate the

works of the Kalaguru in the accurate way, a number of Rabha Sangeet experts from different parts of Assam will be training the students on a number of Bishnu Rabha’s songs at the workshop. Also, keeping up with the subject matter of the workshop, essay competitions will be organised in two segments as well. Apart from a methodical training of songs, a purposeful discussion on several creative aspects of the Kalaguru will also be conducted by various researchers and intellectuals during the course of the workshop. The chief trainer at the workshop will be lyricist and musician, Ranjan Kumar Bhattacharyya. Some other well-known names associated with this year’s workshop include, Dr Sangeeta Kakoti, Loknath Goswami, Swapnanil Barua, Prithviraj Rabha, Hemraj Rabha, Dr Aparna Bujarbarua, Mrinalkanti Medhi, Babul Das, Dr Homeswar Kalita, Dr Anima Chowdhury, Ramen Chowdhury and Pulak Banerjee.

Assamese movie ‘Maj Rati Keteki’ now available on Amazon

contradictions and exploitation of man, by man. The relevance of this film even today is unmatched. Guwahati Press Club has been organizing weekly screenings of award winning and critically acclaimed films and documentaries as a part of a wider initiative to help member-

journalists add value to their professional experience. An LED television set has also been installed at the Guwahati Press Club auditorium. It is learnt that photojournalists are even being offered opportunities to showcase their best works from time to time at the screenings.

Assam boy represents India in Mr Global 2018

hwrwm Khungur Swargiary from Rangiya, Assam was selected to represent India in Mister Global 2018. Son of Binanda Swargiary, a teacher and Harmaya Swargiary, a lecturer, Swargiary has earlier won the Mr East India and Mr Popular titles at Mr India Manhunt International 2017. He has also been winner of the Fair & Lovely Mega Mr North East 2016. Mister Global is an annual international male beauty pageant

founded in 2014. The pageant provides the winner and contestants a global platform through commit-

ted partnership with companies, sponsors and brands. In a recent event of the Mister Global, the Facebook page of the pageant conducted an open voting system for the contestants to enter the semi-finals. The contestant with the most number of votes automatically advances into the semi-finals. Swargiary had the highest number of votes in the pageant voting lines as on July 17 which will close down on Saturday, July 21.

ward winning Assamese movie, “Maj Rati Keteki,” has been touching new heights every day. The film is now available for purchase on Amazon in DVD format and has been rated Universal (U) with 5 stars. The DVD of the film is in Assamese language with English subtitles and has received an “Amazon Bestsellers Rank” of #266 in the “Movies & TV Shows” category. Maj Rati Keteki is a national award winning Assamese film which won Silver Lotus Award in 2017. The film is written and directed by Santwana Bardoloi and stars Adil Hussain in the lead role. Hussain has also won a national film award plus a special mention for his acting in this film at 64th

National Film Awards. “Brilliant movie, superb direction and editing. One of the finest Assamese movies of our time! Glad it is available in Amazon. A must buy!!” reads a customer review on Amazon, along with a rating of 5 stars. All other customers have also rated the DVD ‘5 stars’ with comments like fantastic cinematography, direction, action and location. It is usually a pure twist of fate when a film based on a novel unfolds on screen like the pages of a book. This rare quality of the literary, often infested by the comprehensive panoramas provided by cinema, can be observed in Santwana Bardoloi’s captivating film, Maj Rati Keteki, one from the rich crops of Assamese films.

Fun

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018

Horoscope of the week While you might be making new connections and enjoying the conversations you’re having along the way, this week could have a more changeable side. This could be due to the solar eclipse in your money zone and its connection to powerful Pluto.

Delightful Venus moves into your sector of talk and thought on Monday, so the coming days can help to smooth over any difficulties you may be having with others. It can also be a great asset for networking and marketing your goods and services with a smile.

You could be ready to indulge in a spending spree as sultry Venus moves into Virgo and your money zone on Monday. If it’s associated with getting healthier, you are certainly on the right track. In addition, positive Jupiter in your home zone turns direct on Tuesday, which means if you have any plans involving real estate, the coming weeks can be a chance to put them into action.

With delectable Venus moving into your sign on Monday, your impulse may be to reach out to others, especially those you haven’t seen in a time. This might also be an opportunity to reinvent your image so that it better expresses your identity and personality and any related changes.

Sudoku 5

Your sector of goals and career comes into focus on Monday as convivial Venus moves in. Her presence here could inspire you to take stock of available resources as you push forward with your plans. This can also be a very good influence for business in general, helping to smooth the way during negotiations.

This month could be quite intense in more ways than one, particularly with chatty Mercury in a deeply emotional sector of your chart for some time to come. Its presence here could encourage you to be curious about the deeper workings of your subconscious and what this might mean for you.

You and your partner or significant other could have a lot to talk about, but this can be a good thing and may help clear the air if necessary. Lovely Venus moves into your sector of shares assets, business, and intimacy, so getting closer to your partner could rekindle the flame of passion. Where business is concerned, the presence of diplomatic Venus here can ease the way in negotiations.

Your love life looks positively glowing this month as sultry Venus moves into Virgo and your relationship zone on Monday. Her presence here can add sweetness to your partnership and bring romance to new bonds. In addition, expansive Jupiter turns direct in your travel and exploration zone, making this a perfect time to book a vacation or plan a travel adventure.

Who is the first Assamese actress to win a national award for Best Actress?

Which state has a traditional cuisine called Mui Borok?

Robert Burn’s poem ‘To a Mouse’ inspired the title of which modern classic?

If Rod Laver was the first Open Era Men’s Wimbledon winner then who was the first Women’s Winner, in 1968?

Identify this World Cup Winner. Dr. Soubhadra Chakrabarty This quiz has been brought to you by Brain Jam, a property of Priya Communications

Calvin and Hobbes By Bill Watterson

curio-city

28 7

1 3 4

4 6

7 6

2 69

1 5 medium 1

2 very hard

5 last 4 8week 9 7 solution 3 1 2 6 3 2 7 1 4 6 8 5 9 5 9 93 66 14 2 5 28 74 17 83 7 6 88 71 42 6 2 31 93 49 55 9 7 5 1 8 6 1 3 7 9 45 32 64 28 2 5 24 58 99 3 8 64 16 71 37 5 3 1 8 7 4 8 6 5 1 99 47 23 62 4 3 17 92 26 8 3 17 55 86 94 3 2 71 34 58 4 6 52 69 98 71 2 Sudoku: 9 Fri320-Jul-2018 6 4 7 8 5 medium 1 Daily 6 5 7 9 1 8 2 3 4 Daily Sudoku: Thu 12-Jul-2018

very hard

http://www.dailysudoku.com/

1. Ahmedabad 2. Moloya Goswami 3. Tripura 4. John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men 5. Billie Jean King 6. Didier Deschamps, won World Cup Football as a captain in 1998 and coach in 2018

Which is the first Indian city to be declared a World Heritage City?

Daily Sudoku: Thu 12-Jul-2018

With lively Mercury in your career zone, this week and coming weeks can be an opportunity to showcase your expertise and let others know what you can do. At the same time, with desirable Venus moving into your social sector on Monday, this area of your life could have extra sparkle, with romantic opportunities in the offing, too.

88 1 4 8 1 5 4 2 9 3 5 45 5 3 9 2 3 9 Fri 20-Jul-2018 Daily Sudoku: 7 9

Delectable Venus, your ruling planet, moves into Virgo and your spiritual sector on Monday, which could inspire you to volunteer your time. You might feel moved to assist at charity events or help someone in need. You might also be eager to connect with people on your spiritual wavelength.

curio-city

8 9

Luscious Venus, your guide planet, moves into Virgo and your leisure sector on Monday, encouraging you to kick back and take time out to enjoy yourself. The coming weeks can be your chance to indulge in creative activities and enjoy some romantic outings. When it comes to the exchange of ideas, this week’s solar eclipse in your communication sector could inspire you to take a stand.

There could be plenty going on around you, yet you may be conscious of a need for change. This might be focused on your home situation, as well as your personal goals or career plans. With a solar eclipse in your domestic sector this week, you could sense certain tensions building. And with potent Pluto involved in the mix, powerful emotions could come to the fore as well.

Word of the week coeval adjective [koh-ee-vuh l] of the same age, date, or duration; equally old.

Crossword Across

Down

5 Court jester’s headgear (3,3,5) 7 Friendly nation (4) 8 In a careful manner (8) 9 One who gives up easily (7) 11 Donated (5) 13 Small house (built of logs?) (5) 14 Tynesider (7) 16 Unfaithful (8) 17 Cut and run (4) 18 Medical specialist in the nervous system (11)

1 Salmon fishing river flowing into the Moray Firth (4) 2 Laugh in a scornful way (7) 3 Hard dark-coloured wood (5) 4 Intentionally concealed (8) 5 Sum (11) 6 Obvious (4-7) 10 Rehearsal (5,3) 12 Composer of The Damnation of Faust, d. 1869 (7) 15 Aristocratic British poet, d. 1824 (5) 17 Do a runner (4)

Last week’s solution

Lifestyle

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018

Some rules for the kitchen T

he kitchen is one of the most important segments of a house from where the entire family or household gets the required nourishment. So Vaastu has given utmost importance to the kitchen and laid down certain rules. A defective kitchen will always cast a wrong spell on the

users. As the lady of the house is the chief user of the kitchen, any Vaastu defect will have effect on her first. 1. Never keep the place of worship or puja inside the kitchen. Those having it in the kitchen will always have lots of tension. 2. There should not be a toilet

next to the kitchen. The negative energy from the toilet gets into the kitchen and it will induce fights among family members. 3. The lady of the house or any other member should not use the kitchen without taking a bath. It is unhygienic besides deemed inauspicious by Vaastu Shastra.

4. The kitchen should not be placed directly in front of the main door. This is not considered auspicious and it lacks privacy. Negative energy may enter directly from the main door. 5. It is customary to offer the first portion of the meal to God. Ladies are advised to offer the first cooked roti (bread) to cattle. This reduces the wrath of Vaastu. 6. Needless to say, the kitchen must be located at southeast, which is the direction of the fire element.

Remove these items from the South

Vaastu marks south as the most inauspicious direction as Lord Yama resides in this direction. The south is also ruled by Mars which may cast evil spells. Vaastu forbids certain items or features to be kept at south: 1. Do not keep the clock at south. This is said Hemanta Kumar Sarmah to invite death and Engineer, Businessman, diseases. Advanced Pranic Healer 2. The fridge and Su Jok Acupressure specialist. represents the water element. The south is ruled by the fire element. So the fridge should not be kept

Uric Acid

ost people know the term uric acid and relate it to aches and pains. It is also not unusual for them to get it tested or request the doctor for one. A large number of people take a medicine to lower the levels even when they have no disease related to uric acid. This is known as asymptomatic; I will also describe the symptomatic ones for you to make a choice. The major painful disorder related to high uric acid levels is gout. Gout presents as acute painful

joint swelling, usually a single or few joints of the lower limbs. The pain is excruciating, makes movements difficult and the skin overlying the joint is red, hot and painful. It responds to painkillers (the non steroidal anti inflammatory) or may require steroids. The pain usually subsides over 5 to 10 days and the joint and skin becomes normal. These episodes can be repetitive, destroy the joint and the skin over years and is the major indication for prescription of uric acid lowering drugs. The other problems are related to kidneys, these are - urate nephropathy and uric acid kidney stones. Kidneys stones are mainly of four types and 10% of them are due to crystallization of uric acid in the kidneys. Dehydration, acidic urine and high serum uric acid levels are the principal contributors. Adequate fluid intake and intake of urinary alkalisers are important therapeutic interventions. People often take or are advised urinary alkalisers but they are helpful only in uric acid stones. It is believed they prevent new stones and can also dissolve preformed stones. Urate nephropathy is a unique condition in which crystals gets deposited in the substance of the kidneys causing dysfunction. Outside these three conditions, the

other area where there is interest in medical therapy is in slowing the progress of kidney disease in people with high uric acid levels. Kidney disease by itself can increase the levels because of decreased clearance and risk factors for kidney disease like hypertension also increase uric acid levels. Many of these patients are prescribed a drug with the hope that lowering the levels can slow disease progression but statistical evidence is poor. No guideline/ textbook recommends therapy but most doctors would not be happy leaving their patients with untreated high levels. Probably these prescriptions are driven by the idea that all should be offered to patients which can potentially help. It gives a sense of security and satisfaction that something has been done, especially if an abnormal value can be normalised. Whether a drug helps asymptomatic hyperuricemia or not, high uric acid is a pointer to metabolic disorders like hypertension, obesity, kidney disease and excess alcohol intake and attention should be given to their management. A lifelong medicine for doubtful benefits is something I don’t recommend but those with aches and pains and high levels are not as reluctant to take. It is another area where prescription is driven more by psyche than by science. Dr Rakesh Periwal Critical Care Medicine and Sleep Specialist drperiwal@gmail.com

at south. However it can be kept at southwest as it makes this direction heavy. 3. Underground water bodies are forbidden at south. This brings loss of wealth and problems for female members. So do not dig wells, bore wells, pits or ponds at south.

Don’t do these things in the morning

The morning shows the day. A mistake made in the morning can affect the entire day adversely. According to Vaastu Shastra, the following mistakes should not be committed in the morning so that the day is not spoilt: 1. One should not see his/her face in the mirror immediately after waking up. This casts negative effects on the person for the whole day. It is best to look at both the palms after waking up and thank or pray to God. It is also good to look at the rising sun and offer water. 2. It is not good to call the name of any pet animal before taking breakfast. While getting down from the bed, get down from the right side. The Romans also believed that it was inauspicious to get down from the bed from the left side.

Easy Summer Pancake Recipe Do you ever wake up on summery Sunday mornings with cravings for a nice English breakfast? We most certainly do, especially in this week’s scorching summer heat in Guwahati. So here’s the easiest pancake recipe for you to try at home this summer. This recipe serves 4 to 6 pancakes:

Ingredients yy yy yy yy yy

220 ml Milk 2 eggs 90g Butter 190g Flour 15g Caster sugar yy 4 tsp baking powder

Method In a bowl, beat the eggs, milk and melted butter. Sift the flour, sugar and baking powder. Pour the egg mixture to the flour and whisk till it’s smooth. Let the batter rest for a couple of minutes in the fridge. In a small frying pan, add a little butter and heat it. Pour 1/4th cup of the batter to the hot pan and cook till you see a few bubbles. Flip the pancake and finish cooking for another minute. Serve with fresh bananas or maple syrup or nutella.

Buzz

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018

Sonowal inaugurates VKNRL School of Nursing

hief Minister of Assam, Sarbananda Sonowal, on July 14, formally inaugurated the Vivekananda Kendra NRL (VKNRL) School of Nursing at Numaligarh, which is one of the flagship Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects undertaken by Numaligarh Refinery Limited. Speaking on the occasion, Sonowal applauded NRL for setting up a world class institute in this part of the state to cater to skill development of youths, especially women. “Great responsibility lies with the VKNRL School of Nursing for developing young nurses who are compassionate, trustworthy and emphatic apart from having

technical skills,” he said. Named after the great son of the nation, Swami Vivekananda, Sonowal further said that the school will be an effort to materialise the maxim of Vivekananda, “Service to man is Service to God.” He advised the students of the nursing school to imbibe human values, empathy and compassion to serve the people. Sonowal also called upon the trustees of VKNRL School of Nursing to render quality and value-based education so that the school becomes an epitome of “sustainability with quality.” He even urged the people to take benefits of the state government’s health schemes like Chief Minister’s Free Diagnostic services, Atal Amrit Abhiyan, etc. The inauguration was also attended by Atul Bora, State Agriculture Minister; Minister of Human Resources & IT, Keshav

Mahanta; Roselina Tirkey, Sarupathar MLA, SK Barua, MD NRL; BJ Phukan, Director (Technical) NRL, along with the district authorities, senior officials of NRL, Vivekananda Kendra and VKNRL Hospital and a host of invitees and distinguished guests. The VKNRL School of Nursing will roll out 40-60 girl students per year for the General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) course offered. The first batch of students, mostly from Golaghat district, has already been enrolled in the 2017-18 session. Entirely driven by an all-women team of students, principal, faculty, contract workers and vendors for support service, the VKNRL Nursing School is managed by the VKNRL Nursing School Trust comprising members from NRL and Vivekananda Kendra. Sonowal also planted saplings in the campus of the nursing school and inaugurated the pipe natural gas supply network of Numaligarh Refinery Township. n

All Assam TT & Badminton tournaments held by Don Bosco

he ongoing 7th All Assam Open Ranking Badminton Championship and the 10th All Assam Major Ranking Table Tennis Championship is scheduled to conclude today, 21st July. The championship has been organized by Don Bosco School in collaboration with Don Bosco Alumni, Guwahati Unit, under the patronage of Assam Table Tennis Association (ATTA) and Assam Badminton Association (ABA). Conducted under the guidance of Guwahati Sports Association, the TT tournament is being held at the Nihal Singh Thakur Table Tennis Indoor Hall while Badminton tournament is being held at the Don Bosco Badminton Indoor Stadium. Total entries of 328 paddlers and 450 shuttlers for both the championships were received by both ATTA and ABA respectively. ATTA received the

entries for participants in table tennis from 10 affiliated units including Dibrugarh, Duliajan, Golaghat, Guwahati, Jorhat, Lakhimpur, Nagaon, NFR, OIL and Sivasagar while the ABA received entries from 12 affiliated units which include Dibrugarh, Duliajan, Golaghat, Guwahati, Jorhat, Lakhimpur, Namrup, Nagaon, NFR, OIL, Silchar, Sivasagar and Tezpur.

“This programme is organised annually at the Don Bosco School campus. There will be participants from all across the state,” said the vice chairman of the organising committee, Kartik Phukan. While the table tennis championship was held from July 17 to J uly 20, the badminton championship has been going on from July 18 to July 21. n

he 5th Nagen Hazarika and 9th RG Baruah All Assam Major Ranking Table Tennis Championships are going to be organized by the Assam Table Tennis Association (ATTA) at the Desbhakta Tarun Ram Phukan Indoor Stadium from July 25 to July 30. The 5th Nagen Hazarika Ranking TT Championship would take place between July 25-27 and it would be followed by the RG Baruah Ranking TT championship from July 28-30. Around 450 players from different parts of the state in-

cluding Guwahati, Golaghat, Silchar, Duliajan, Jorhat, Sivasagar, Nazira, Namrup, Nagaon, Tezpur, Dibrugarh and North Lakhimpur, along with institutions like Oil India Ltd and NF Railway are going to take part in these championships. Altogether 10 individual events will be held from cadet level to senior level for both men and women. The entries to participate have closed as they were to be sent before July 17. Biman Bhagawati of Sivasagar has been appointed as the chief referee for the RG Baruah Ranking Championships and Chandan

Goswami of Nagaon has been appointed as the chief referee for the Nagen Hazarika Ranking Championships respectively. The treasurer of Assam Table Tennis Association (ATTA), Nayan Jyoti Sarma of Jorhat, will act as official observer for both the championships. n

IIT-G to provide support to ASEAN countries

20-member delegation comprising 13 women journalists from the 10 ASEAN countries took part in a discussion with the IIT Guwahati (IIT-G) authorities on Tuesday, July 17, and enquired about the possibility of the enrolment of students of the ASEAN countries in the premier institution. The visiting team urged the IIT authority to extend fruitful help to the ASEAN countries for the spread of technology and service-related knowledge and skill. Professor Gautam Biswas, Director, IIT-G, along with other professors, urged the delegation to raise the issue in their respective countries and assured that IIT-G would be happy to accept any tie-up proposal from their technical institutions. “Till now 5 countries have examination centres (in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Singapore and Dubai) for India’s Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) – the screening

test for enrolment to IIT and other technical institutions – and if the government of India agrees, more such centres can be opened in other ASEAN countries,” Prof Biswas said. The guests were unanimous in their views that Guwahati should become the gateway to the ASEAN nations and direct connectivity to all ASEAN countries should be started soon. They also welcomed the vision of Assam's Chief Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal, that ASEAN countries should open their consulates in Guwahati for mutual gain in both economic (trade and commerce) and socioeducational sectors' prosperity. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) consists of 10 member countries namely - Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. The team members from all 10 nations were on a three-day visit to Assam from July 17. n

City university completes ASTEC funded projects in record time

I Dates announced for State TT championships T

n a rare feat, the students of School of Technology from Assam Don Bosco University (ADBU) have not only successfully completed and bagged 22 science & technology related projects funded by the Assam Science Technology and Environment Council (ASTEC), but also completed them within a record time of six months, which is well ahead of the stipulated timeframe of one year, to submit the reports to the ASTEC. The School of Technology, Assam Don Bosco University had applied to ASTEC for financial and academic support under the scheme of Student’s Science Project for its various science & technologyrelated projects. While more than 100 project proposals were sent to ASTEC from across different colleges

in Assam, the students of School of Technology, ADBU could manage to bag 22 out of the total 48 projects, which were provided financial assistance up to ₨ 10,000 by the ASTEC. The financial assistance was provided to help convert the projects into viable products. The scheme provides an opportunity to the students to carry forward innovative and technically viable research based projects that can cater to the needs of the society. The projects, which were undertaken by the students, were supervised by faculty members of various departments of the School of Technology, ADBU. Director of ASTEC, Prof Arup Kr Mishra addressed the students and faculty members at an event organized by School of Technology, Assam Don Bosco University on Tuesday, July 17 and on record said that this is for the first time in the history of ASTEC that one single institution has alone bagged as many as 22 projects in one year. He expressed his appreciation for the students for completing the projects within six months’ time. n

Events

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018

July 21, Saturday Big Saturday Night Dunkin Oza 6PM onwards

The JD Institute of Fashion Technology Guwahati Chapter organised its annual award fuction at the Pragjyotish ITA Machkhowa on 13th July. The curtains for event was raised by the Interior designing and fashion photography exhibitions at 10 am and followed by the most looked-for fashion show by the graduating students of JD Institute of Fashion Technology from 5:30pm onwards. The theme for this year’s

Venue: Pragjyotish ITA Machkhowa

Date: July 13, Friday

Event:

JD Excellence in Design Awards

Assamese actor Jatin Bora cuts the cake to celebrate the 1st anniversary of Ichchapuron Restaurant at Ganeshguri on July 17, Tuesday, in presence of renowned actress Nishita Goswami and husband Sayan Chakraborty.

show was ‘Change’.

July 21, Saturday Monsoon Blast Promo Party Terra Mayaa 8PM onwards July 21, Saturday Saturday Night ft. Sherly Francis Club V 7PM onwards July 21, Saturday In the loop ft. Sanjay Dutta NYX, Hotel palacio 7PM onwards July 21, Saturday GenNext Club Nights Club XS 7PM onwards

Event: Date: Venue:

Club Night ft. DJ Rik July 17, Tuesday Dunkin Oza

July 21, Saturday DJ Prikha Live Underdoggs Sports Bar 8PM onwards July 21, Saturday Social Shanivar The Socialite 8PM onwards

Event: Date: Venue:

Ladies Night July 11, Wednesday NYX, Hotel Palacio

July 21, Saturday Personality Development And Grooming ft. Alok Sharma INIFD, Guwahati centre 4PM onwards July 22, Sunday Unplugged Night ft. Parwaz The Socialite 8PM onwards

Event: : Annual Modern Dance Festival, Urban Beats Performing Arts Date: July 14, Sunday Venue: District Library

July 22, Sunday Personality Development Session ft. Ar. Pragati Goyal Guwahati Lions eye Hospital 11AM onwards

Catching Up

G PLUS | Jul 21 - JUl 27, 2018

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