Vol 5 Issue 52 by G Plus

G PLUS | oct 20 - oct 26, 2018 @guwahatiplus www.guwahatiplus.com

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G Plus News he Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government has issued suspension notices to some IPS and ACS officers for “security lapses” during the visit of the Chief Justice of India (CJI), Ranjan Gogoi, to Kamakhya on Maha Ashtami. But the step might hit them back hard as it is because of the concurrent visit of the party supremo, Amit Shah that the CJI had to face the security lapse. According to sources, the Chief Justice of India, Ranjan Gogoi, had to wait for 10 seconds at the VIP gate because the BJP supremo, Amit Shah along with chief minister of Assam, Sarbananda Sonowal and BJP’s favourite leader from the northeast, Himanta Biswa Sarma, were return-

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Guwahati celebrates

Durga Puja

ing after worshiping the Goddess. This wait was perceived as a major security lapse. For a background of matters pertinent here, it needs to be mentioned that in the Guwahati Police Commissionerate it was only Deputy Commissioner of Police (West), Bhanwar Lal Meena, among all other similar officers, who mandated tenant verification; result-

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BJP snubs CJI for Amit Shah, suspends honest officials to cover up

NF Railway plans to close down unmanned Gate No 2 at Lakhtokia; locals restless

Pandals use innovative methods to avoid plastic usage

Law & order scenario showing deteriorating trend in Ghy G Plus News

ith the increasing population in Guwahati - the gateway of the northeast - the number of crimes is also increasing and the consequent deteriorating law and order situation is increasingly coming under scrutiny. The police and the authorities might claim that the scenario is under control but the residents have a different story altogether. Some new gangs have become operative in the city and robbery is what these gangs are resorting to. Recently, a group of robbers entered a house in Bamunimaidan and the CCTV camera of the house captured their scarf-covered faces. The gang tried breaking the door but were thwarted by the strong locks in place. A source in Chandmari police said, “There are some new gangs in the area but there was no major robbery incident reported. However the police are investigating all angles and

Admin, police fail to control late night noise pollution during puja G Plus News

efore the Puja celebrations started in the city, the administration and the police had claimed that loud music would be allowed in puja pandals only till 11 pm. But according to many residents of Guwahati, pandals

Policeman at the blast site | G Plus Photo suspected gang members will be soon apprehended.” Similarly, some gangs are operating in the AK Azad Road area and last week a major burglary incident was reported in Jyotikuchi Dhopolia. A gang of robbers entered the house of one Tultuli Das near Dhupolia Bihu Field and looted around Rs 1 lakh in cash. The victim, talking to G Plus said, “I was sleeping with my family and at around 1 am a group of people started knocking on the door. Thinking that it might be some neighbour I opened the door and as soon as I did that they

sprayed something on my face causing me to lose consciousness.” She narrated that thereafter the gang sprayed the same stuff on everyone in the house. The gang looted Rs 1 lakh and left the house; the family members regained consciousness after three hours. The Fatasil Ambari police however till now have not been able to apprehend the culprits. Similarly, there are many other concerns. The bomb blast just before Durga Puja (13th October) has

were playing loud music late into the night in many places. Even after complaints were raised, the police failed to control the situation. A resident of Kharguli talking to G Plus said, “Loudspeakers at the Kharguli puja pandal were on up to 1.30 AM on the first day. Residents in the proximity were not able to sleep so I complained to the commissioner of police, Pradip Saloi; no action was taken.” It seems, according to the resident, the commissioner of police initially did not respond promptly to the complaint filed. Later he informed the resident that the Deputy Commissioner of Police

(Central), Ranjan Bhuyan, would look into the matter with the help of the local police. When the loudspeakers continued to blare, the resident tried calling the DCP (Central) but did not get any response. The issue was never resolved. Similarly, residents of many areas faced the same situation and were not able to sleep at night because of the loud music playing at the puja pandals. Residents of areas like Bishnupur, Lal Ganesh, Jyotikuchi, Colony Bazar and Belatala also complained of the same issue. n

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Related Stories ON page » 6

2 Lead Story BJP snubs CJI for Amit Shah... Continued from page » 1 antly many state government officials were against him. Tenant verification requires dedicated manpower and Assam Police has been known for squirming and complaining about lack of manpower. Bhanwar Lal Meena mandated tenant verification in his district and many police officials were irked with the move as it increased their work load. Meena however is also considered as one of the most honest officers that the Guwahati Commissionerate ever had. Today he stands suspended because according to the BJP government there was a security lapse during CJI Ranjan Gogoi’s visit to Kamakhya Temple.

CoP, DC not present during CJI’s visit Whenever there is a political leader visiting the city, the commissioner of police and the deputy commissioner of Kamrup (Metro) never fail to be at the airport to receive them. When the Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi visited the Kamakhya Temple, both of them were conspicuously missing. It is the commissioner of police and the deputy commissioner (DC) who assigns these very important duties to relevant officers. Ranjan Gogoi’s visit was not taken seriously as, according to sources, all focus was given to Amit Shah’s visit. The DC appoints the Protocol Officer who is usually an additional deputy commissioner and during Ranjan Gogoi’s visit it was Additional DC Prasanta Kathkatia who was in-charge. Sources revealed that even Kathkatia is set to receive a suspension notice. But sources revealed that Kathkatia received the information about CJI’s visit rather late in the day and accordingly the police was informed. If Kathkatia and Bhanwar Lal are suspended, it remains a wonder how their superiors, namely the commissioner of police and the deputy commissioner remain in office and have not been suspended. Have these two officers been made the proverbial “fall guys?” The Bharatiya Janata Party has changed all norms and regulations for their party supremo and this is not new. Ranjan Gogoi was not given the importance he deserved; rather Amit Shah was treated n as God.

G PLUS | oct 20 - oct 26, 2018

Puja celebrations go eco-friendly this year Several Durga Puja pandals adopted the eco-friendly approach this year and made special efforts to use biodegradable products in the celebrations Saumya Mishra saumya.mishra@g-plus.in

s the Durga Puja celebrations come to a close, Guwahati saw a large number of puja pandals which were set up in different parts of the city this year. The pandals witnessed enthusiastic participation from the devotees and their religious fervour was in its full glory. However, this year the puja was made extra special with several Durga Puja celebration committees displaying consciousness towards the environment and adopting an eco-friendly approach while organising the puja. Plastic has been one of the major causes of pollution in the city, chocking drains and making up a majority of the garbage collected from households in Guwahati. Considering this, the district administration had appealed to the puja organising committees to refrain from using plastic this year in order to be more conscientious

of Durga Puja, GMC commissionwater logging in the future,” he towards the environment and er Monalisa Goswami said that said. eco-system. whenever they carry out de-siltaHe further added that as plastic The officials from the district tion drives in the city, plastic is the does a long-term harm to the enadministration, city police main substance found to be clogvironment, they should consider and the Guwahati Municipal ging the drains. using alternatives for plastic, like Corporation (GMC) held a joint “In the pandals and even after paper, during the festival. The meeting with members of various the immersion rituals puja organising are carried out, items committees from made of plastic are all over the district seen in abundance last week to issue around the ghats,” she a set of guidelines informed. to be followed for Mahanta said that organising Durga it was time for GuwaPuja. hati to follow MumDuring the meetbai’s footsteps with ing, Assistant Deputy regard to the plastic Commissioner (Kamban during the Garup), Pulak Mahanta, nesh Chaturthi festirequested the puja val which is celebratcommittees to refrain ed with a lot of pomp from using plastic Traditional Prasad being served on the ‘Duna’ | G Plus Photo and grandeur every in any form such as year in Maharashtra. plastic plates, bottles, In March this year, the MahaGuwahati Municipal Commission glasses or polythene bags inside rashtra government had banned (GMC) workers were deployed to the pandals. He said that plastic is the manufacture, sale and use of clean the pandal premises across one of the major causes of water plastic bags, disposable plastic the city twice every day during logging during the rainy season in spoons, cups, glasses, forks, PET the festival period. the city. bottles, containers and even therAdditionally, sensitising the or“I request you all to avoid using mocol for decoration purposes ganisers about the environmental plastic and not throw them in the during the festival. concerns faced in the aftermath nearby drains in order to prevent n

Pandals use innovative methods to avoid plastic usage

eeping in mind the district administration’s appeal and the fragile ecosystem of Guwahati, various puja committees stressed on using environment-friendly options to construct pandals, idols of gods and goddesses and in the decorations. The city saw a large number of puja celebrations this year with more than 400 puja pandals being set up. Geetanagar Sarbajanin Durga Puja Samiti members informed G Plus that they have constructed the pandal using playboard whereas the idols are constructed made of soil and clay. The puja is conducted every

year at the Geetanagar School playground and sees a footfall in lakhs during the puja. “We have been conscious not to use plastic in the dress or jewellery of Goddess Durga’s idol. We have also constructed a small park in the pandal premises. In place of plastic, we are using cups, plates and glasses made of paper,” said Ritumoni Saikia, member of the Geetanagar puja organising committee. Saikia added that they have been organising the puja pandal at Geetanagar for the past 43 years and felt that it was high time to adopt environmentally sustainable alternatives to plastic.

“We have also asked the vendors who have put up their stalls in the pandal premises to avoid using plastic and to serve visitors in paper plates and cups,” he informed. In the same vein, Noonmati Durga Puja committee members devised a unique way to refrain from using non-biodegradable options and served bhog and prasad in vessels made from banana tree bark called “duna” in Assamese. Further, in their attempts to promote eco-friendly Durga Puja, the Latasil Durga Puja committee came up with a unique initiative. The committee members, this year, served Maha Saptami,

Maha Ashtami, and Maha Navami bhog in these traditional dunas made out of the barks of banana trees. The committee even decided to serve drinking water in earthen glasses to avoid using plastic glasses. Speaking to G Plus, one of the members said, “We are making an attempt to use as less plastic materials as we can. We are moving back to traditional methods of serving food and water.” Even the idols of the puja are eco-friendly. From the dresses to accessories of Goddess Durga, everything has been kept eco-friendly this year, they informed. n

Cover Story

G PLUS | oct 20 - oct 26, 2018

Law & order scenario showing deteriorating trend in Ghy Continued from page » 1 further raised the concerns of the citizens. The city police was not at all prepared for such an attack and even after the blast the police could not verify for hours whether it was an IED or a grenade blast. Members of the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) recently met Assam Governor Jagdish Mukhi and apprised him about the deteriorating law and order situation in Assam, especially the discern-

ible spurt in crimes against women. The memorandum submitted to the Assam Governor stated that in recent times there has been a spate in random and contract killings in various parts of the state and in Guwahati and its outskirts. The 18-member group which included leader of the opposition and Nazira MLA, Debabrata Saikia and former Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi told the Governor that there is an increase in the frequency of police action such

as baton charges and even firing upon demonstrators. The party claimed that the police are not being able to handle demonstrations peacefully. According to a news portal, the Governor was apprised on the alarming data on crimes against women in the past two years in which 29,223 cases were recorded against women. These included 3,009 rapes, 17,106 incidents of physical assaults and 9,108 cases of kidnapping. Nine incidents of rape

Ghy Rly Station a sitting duck for rebels

he Guwahati Railway Station is the most targeted point for rebels but it seems the Ministry of Railways is not all that worried about the security concerns. The luggage scanning machine located at the entrance of the Guwahati Railway Station has remained non-functional since the last one year and the concerned railway authorities are

not getting it repaired. A source in the Railway Police Force (RPF) talking to G Plus said, “The luggage scanner is not operating since the last one year and the signal and communication department of the railways is responsible for repairing it but they are not repairing it despite repeated reminders.” The security personnel now check luggage of only a few passengers thoroughly making

things easier for the smugglers. The sources in the Northeast Frontier Railway revealed that within a month a tender will be floated to repair the scanner; in the northeast the scanner located in New Jalpaiguri Station is the only one functioning properly. The Guwahati railway station also has many other entry points which are not properly sealed by the security personnel making it n vulnerable to bomb blasts.

culminated in the death of the victims. The members stated that girls were now scared to come out of their houses to go for studies or work.

The Governor’s intervention was sought to galvanize this apathetic government to action as it was seen that they were side stepping the issue when it was raised during the Assembly session. n

4 City Snippets DCP West suspended for security lapse during CJI’s visit

G PLUS | oct 20 - oct 26, 2018

Quiet Kati Bihu observance in city amidst Durga Puja extravaganza and solemnity with farmers hoping for a bumper crop during the coming season. While observing the festival, the locals feed the cattle items made of rice such as pitha among others. People of the Bodo community also light the lamps at the foot of the Siju tree. On the other hand, Rongali and Bhogali Bohu are celebrated with much gaiety and cheerfulness across Assam. Rongali or Bohag Bihu is one of the most significant festivals of the state and is celebrated during the beginning of the harvest season. It is also regarded as the beginning of the Assamese New Year. The festival is linked to the agricultural cycle and is celebrated with a lot of enthusiasm and festive cheer throughout the state.

CJI Ranjan Gogoi

he Assam Government in a recent order suspended Bhanwar Lal Meena, Deputy Commissioner of Police, West Police District, Guwahati on Saturday. The reason given in the order was lapse of security arrangements during the recent Kamakhya Temple visit by Chief Justice of India, Ranjan Gogoi which led to the inconvenience of the CJI. The order issued on behalf of the Governor of Assam by Dr. Deepak Majumdar, Secretary to Government of Assam states that Bhanwar Lal Meena will remain under suspension till further notice.

Kati Bihu observation in the state

Kingpin of fake currency network busted in Guwahati

National Investigation Agency team from Hyderabad arrested the main accused involved in fake currency network in Guwahati. The apprehended has been identified as Mohammad Akbar Ali, who also carried a bounty of Rs. 25,000 on his head. Ali has been arrested in a case related to the seizure of high quality fake Indian currency notes having a face value Rs 5,01,500 in September 2015 in Visakhapatnam. The investigation revealed that Akbar Ali had come to Bengaluru from Assam in 2007 and was working in a florist’s shop. He was later introduced into the fake Indian currency notes business by his uncle, Hakim. The names of other members of the inter-state gang and their associates from Malda and Bengaluru also came to light and investigation against them is underway.

Saumya Mishra saumya.mishra@g-plus.in

mid the grandeur and pomp of Durga Puja celebrations which marked the past week, a relatively quieter festival was also celebrated in the city as well as across the state - Kati Bihu. Kati Bihu is also called Kongali Bihu and like other Bihu festivals, it is closely related to the harvest season. This festival is celebrated around mid-October on the first day of the ‘Kati’ calendar month of the Assamese calendar. During Kongali Bihu, farmers pray for

This festival is celebrated around mid-October on the first day of the ‘Kati’ calendar month of the Assamese calendar. During Kongali Bihu, farmers pray for a good harvest as the paddy crops grow in the fields during this time of the year.

a good harvest as the paddy crops grow in the fields during this time of the year. The term ‘Kongali’ means ‘poor’ indicating the limited availability of food due to the cycle of harvest. The festival is also linked with austerity. Bihu - the main festival of Assam consists of three Bihu festivals celebrated at different times of the year. Rongali or Bohag Bihu is celebrated in April during the arrival of the spring season. Kongali or Kati Bihu is observed in October and Bhogali or Magh Bihu is celebrated in January during the harvest time. Each of the Bihu festivals has its own cultural as well as symbolic significance. Following some of the rituals of Kati Bihu, Goddess Lakshmi is invoked as she is known to bring prosperity to the household. During the festival, people light chaki or earthen lamps and candles during the evening and place them at various places outside their homes including paddy fields. Earthen lamps are also lit in front of the Tulsi plant which Hindus consider to be sacred. Kati Bihu is mainly observed while offering prayers to the gods for a good harvest of the rice saplings. Since a good harvest brings in prosperity, this is the time to assume

austerity, feel locals. Usually the lamps which are lit in the paddy fields during Kati Bihu are kept at a higher level on bamboo, so that the insects fall prey to the fire thus keeping the crop healthy. These lamps lit on bamboo are called as ‘Akaxbonti’ in Assamese. These Akaxbonti are also lit for another reason - to show the souls of the dead the way to heaven. Kati Bihu is considered to have more religious value attached to it as compared to the other two Bihus and the festival revolves around typically offering prayers in various forms. Simplicity and austerity are the chief markers of the event and the festival is confined to a simple celebration often observed in one’s own home. As per the tradition, Kati Bihu is also a reminder for people to remain grounded as it drives home the importance of having food in the house as the storage facilities remain relatively unfilled during the season. Kati Bihu marks the culmination of sowing and transplanting of paddy. As compared to Rongali Bihu and Bhogali Bihu, Kati Bihu is marked by a different atmosphere of less cheer and the air has a feel of seriousness

Goddess Lakshmi is invoked as she is known to bring prosperity to the household. During the festival, people light chaki or earthen lamps and candles during the evening and place them at various places outside their homes including paddy fields.

The festival is celebrated for seven days during the month of Bohag or Baishakh which falls in the middle of April. During Bohag Bihu, cattle are also cleaned and bathed and are also worshipped as a way to express their gratitude in helping them in the farms. Further, prayers are also offered for a productive year ahead. On the other hand, Bhogali or Magh Bihu is celebrated during the end of the harvesting season. Bhogali Bihu is observed during mid-January and is marked by feasting. The word ‘Bhogali’ has been derived from Bhog which means eating. The festival is also marked by community feasting and n merry making.

G PLUS | oct 20 - oct 26, 2018

6 Concern Snippets A rare moth with snake-faced wings spotted

G PLUS | oct 20 - oct 26, 2018

Terror threat dampens Puja spirit; turnout low Even the spirit of puja is gradually changing in Guwahati, feel observers

rare species of moth was spotted at Puruni Patgaon, Durga Mandir during Saptami Puja, on Tuesday, October 16. A beautiful maroon coloured moth was seen resting at the pandal of the Durga Mandir much to the amusement of the visitors. The moth was strikingly beautiful and had a unique pattern of wings that looked like the face of a snake. The wing span was about 30 centimetres. The snake face designed on both the sides of the wings is clearly visible as seen in the picture and the moth stayed resting at the same place for a little more than 24 hours creating a sense of mystery and amusement among the puja devotees. People passing by were fascinated seeing the moth and started taking pictures and selfies. But due to the hustle and disturbing noises at the Mandir the moth disappeared at night.

No Parking Zones near flyovers announced in the city

ll the service roads of the flyovers and the national highways within Guwahati have been declared as ‘No Parking Zone’ with immediate effect. Violations of this order shall be punishable as per law. This order was issued by Amanjeet Kaur, IPS, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Traffic, Guwahati. The objective of the order is to have a smooth traffic management to ensure a free flow of vehicular movement in the city and to reduce traffic congestion near landing points of all the flyovers and the service roads of the national highways.

A Durga Puja mandap at Guwahati G Plus News

urga Puja celebrations witnessed lesser footfall in 2018 for various reasons ranging from terror threat, dampened spirit and traffic congestion. The media secretary of Bishnupur Sarbojonik Puja Committee, Prasanta Bose, talking to G Plus said, “The administration and police had beefed up security for some prominent Puja pandals like

Bishnupur Puja Committee, Lakhi Mandir, Nayantara etc and some points were sealed.” He expressed that as four-wheelers were not allowed in, people did not visit such pandals. There are two entry points to Bishnupur – Chabipool and Cycle Factory - and both of them were sealed by the administration. Bose also added that the terror threat was another main reason for lesser footfall this year. On 13th October 2018, the United Liberation Front of Asom (Independent) (ULFA-I) had

claimed responsibility for a bomb blast that occurred at around 12 noon at Fancy Bazar on the same day. Four persons were injured in the blast. Even during the Durga Puja celebrations on Thursday (Navami) there were rumours of a blast at Maliagaon rest camp. People across Guwahati started panicking after the rumour started spreading but G Plus clarified with the joint commissioner of Police, Diganta Borah, who rubbished the rumours.

But as soon as the rumour started spreading, many pandal hoppers rushed back to their homes. Navami is the third day of Durga Puja and most of the people prefer visiting Puja pandals on Navami. Along with the terror threat, the spirit of Durga Puja is also dampening and undergoing a transformation among the people, feel many. A prominent priest of Guwahati, Dulal Chakravorty, who conducts Durga Puja rituals in prominent puja pandals, talking to G Plus said, “Durga Puja these days have turned tamoshik (snobbish) while earlier it used to be manoshik (devotional).” Chakravorty said that nowadays people buy new clothes during Puja, and instead of worshiping Goddess Durga in these new clothes, they prefer to be at parties at night and throng most of the discotheques and bars in the city. There is also a culture of people eating outside on all four days; they do not like eating the Prasad distributed in the pandals. So the true spirit of puja is gradually changing in Guwahati, stressed the priest. Traffic congestion played another spoilsport as, in the evenings of the puja days, almost all the roads were jam packed. The traffic department deployed extra personnel to control the traffic but the streets were seen crowded because of which people could not visit many pandals. n

Business takes a dip this Durga puja

esser footfall this year during Durga Puja has directly affected the businesses in the city and the traders were not able to earn as per their hopes and expectations. All types of traders are unhappy with their turnovers this year. A toy shop owner at Lal Ganesh, Biraj Das, talking to G Plus said, “I invested Rs 10 lakhs in buying toys and balloons but not even 50% of my stock got sold. I did not earn any profit this year.” Das also revealed that this year, while purchasing the toys, he

had to spend more as, according to wholesalers in Siliguri, it is difficult to get China made products now and even the Goods & Services Tax (GST) has taken a toll. Further, some traders also feel that online shopping and the increasing mall culture in the city, has had its role to play in the lower sales. In addition to this, almost all major e-commerce websites offer heavy discounts during the festive season. “People love shopping online sitting in the comfort of their own homes as it is very convenient

for them and they also get a wide variety of products to choose from. Also, the malls in the city are witnessing consistent sales and profits,” said a shoe shop owner at Fancy Bazar whose profits have gone down by 15% this year. While people love eating out during Puja, food joints however complained of lesser business this year. The Food & Beverage manager of Hotel Shoolin Grand, Raj Kamal Borah said, “There is 20% decrease in the footfall of people visiting the restaurant during this Durga puja.”

Owner of Chick & Chilly, Ranbir Kar, said that the stretch of GS Road witnessed decent footfall but other areas witnessed less crowd resulting in a dip in the business. Narrating the story of Chick & Chilly located at GS Road, Kar said, “On the first day of puja (Saptami) our joint was closed by the police early because of which we incurred losses. The next day I complained to the higher authorities and then on Ashthami and Navami we did good business.” But overall there was a dip in business in Guwahati this puja. n

In The News

G PLUS | oct 20 - oct 26, 2018

All roads lead to Barsapara, but note the diversions for your convenience 2. All types of commercial vehicles shall be restricted both on National Highway and AK Deb Road and AK Azad Road from 4 AM till the match is over.

No Parking: The following roads are declared as No Parking Zones:

1. Mora Bharalu Bridge – Itabhata Road 2. AK Azad road from NH 37 3. AK Deb Road from Fatasil Ambari Point to Sassan Road Point 4. Kula Basumatary Road

ACA secretary Devajit Saikia addresing media about the road diversions

raffic diversion in and around Barsapara and adjoining areas of Guwahati have been announced in connection with the India vs West Indies One Day Cricket Match to be played at Dr Bhupen Hazarika Cricket Stadiuim, Barsapara on Oct 21, 2018.

Public Entry Points: The spectators and the general public can reach Barsapara Stadium through the following routes:

Parking Management: Parking places for vehicles coming via AK Deb Road are: Anand Kr Poddar Plot Subhash Boro plot Pamohi Molina Khulung Field Gorchuk Saturday Market field Katahbari Bihu Field Bethany School Field Agility Logistic Ltd RCM Godown Havells India Ltd Datalpara Field

1. Via BK Kakoti Road via AK Azad Road towards cricket stadium

Champawati Field

2. Via AK Deb Road from Gorchuk Chariali on National Highway 37 towards cricket stadium

Rangapathar Field

3. Via AK Deb Road via Bharalumukh towards cricket stadium

Public Entry Gates to the Stadium: 4. Gate no. 2 on Barsapara Road will enter via Barsapara Road via Lokhara 5. Gate no. 3 on RG Baruah Path will enter via Godrej Gali via Rolling Mill via Lokhara. 6. Gate no 4 on Rolling Mill Road will enter via Sassan road via Lokhara 7. Gate no 5 on Dr Bhupen Hazarika Path will enter via Raghunath Road, AK Deb Road 8. Gate no 6 on Dr Bhupen Hazarika Path will enter via Raghunath Road, AK Deb Road

Ganeshpara Field Ambari PWD Field Cycle Factory Field Parking location for vehicles coming from AK Azad road are: Arya College Field Birubari IIT Field Vishal Mega Mart Lutuma Field Aastha Academy Gyanendra Academy Rising Star Academy Bhagwat Sham Field Saukuchi Budhboria Bazar area Betkuchi High School

Restrictions/ Diversions/ No Entry: 1. Lokhara Road from Sarabbhati shall be one-way. Entry of vehicles from Lokhara Chariali shall be restricted.

5. Sassan Road 6. Rolling Mill Road

8 City

G PLUS | oct 20 - oct 26, 2018

NF Railway plans to close down unmanned Gate No 2 at Lakhtokia; locals restless down the unmanned crossing permanently.” The problem of unmanned crossing is not only faced in Lakhtokia. There are many places in Guwahati where people unwillingly have to cross the railway line under great risk. It is seen that many markets have also sprouted near the busy railway lines. Vendors from far-off places of Assam come to Guwahati in trains and sell their products near the railway line. Trains entering such places have to slow down to prevent any

Chiranjeeb Talukdar

he Northeast Frontier Railway authorities, in the second week of October, closed the unmanned crossing on Colonel J Ali Road of Lakhtokia popularly known as Gate No 2. After protests by the local people, business community and the Masjid authority of Lakhtokia, the Railway authorities decided to reopen it temporarily. Lakhtokia, which is the hub of all the electronic items of Guwahati, always remains busy. The unmanned Railway crossing which is located on Colonel J Ali Road is used by many people to cross over to the AT Road side or vice versa by foot after treading over the railway tracks rather than the more circuitous route of using the Pan Bazar over bridge. The crossing has long been nonmotorable though. The crossing not only serves to connect different parts of the area, but is also a major area for vendors. A local vendor of the area informed G Plus that they faced a lot of problems when the crossing was closed. He said that people were harassed as they could not use the crossing. An autorickshaw driver from Colonel J Ali Road said that with the closure of the unmanned crossing, the main road of Lakhtokia suddenly became overcrowded with people leaving no space for the vehicles on the road. After the step was taken by the Railway authorities the local people, vendors, businessmen, Masjid authority, residents of Ram Mandir Lane and several other people came forward to express their dissatisfaction towards the Railway authority

Market in Gate No. 2 at Lakhtokia | G Plus Photo and the government. They together formed a committee and submitted a memorandum to the Minister of State for Railways, Rajen Gohain, the local MLA, Commissioner of GMC, GMDA and other various officials for reopening of the crossing. Public Relations Officer (PRO) of NF Railway, Jayanta Sarma, informed G Plus that the unmanned crossing on Colonel J Ali Road is considered to be illegal as NF Railway has not approved that crossing. He added that usage of that unmanned crossing by any person is considered to be an unlawful act. According to Railway Rulebook, a person can only cross a railway line when there is a proper level crossing made by the authority. The level crossing should have gates and the gates may be in the form of chains, lifting barriers or movable gates of approved design.

At new manned level crossings or when existing unmanned level crossings are upgraded to manned level crossings, lifting barriers should normally be provided which should be coupled so as to operate simultaneously. Chains or swing gates at existing manned level crossings should be replaced by lifting barriers on a programmed basis, giving priority to the important and busy level crossings. The crossing should have railway personnel to carry out the day to day operations of the level crossing. Since the crossing on Colonel J Ali Road in Lakhtokia does not have all the necessary facilities mentioned in the Railway Rulebook, the crossing is illegal and any person who passes over that part of the railway tracks is considered to be trespassing railway property.

Though people have submitted a memorandum to the authorities highlighting their inconveniences, it is not a permanent solution for the problem. Local people are still apprehensive that the crossing will be closed by the Railway authority permanently and they will again have to face the problem. Reacting to queries in this regard, the Railway PRO, Jayanta Sarma said, “The reopening of the unmanned crossing is temporary. We will deal with the problem legally and shut

kind of mishap. Any kind of unwanted incident causes a lot of problems to the people and to the Railway. Unplanned formation of Guwahati city and the unplanned railway track through the heart of the city is one of the main reasons for such occurrences. It will be a challenge for the government to make new plans and execute such plans so that they can prevent such unlawful activity. It will also be the responsibility of the citizens of Guwahati to follow the rules and regulations mentioned by the authority for the betterment and n safety of the society.

Weather report for the week Guwahati

SUN

MON

TUE

WED

THU

FRI

Sunny

Storm

Sunny

Storm

Partly Cloudy

32°/24° C

34°/24° C

32°/26° C

32°/24° C

SATURDAY Sunny

30°/23° C

G PLUS | oct 20 - oct 26, 2018

10 Concern Snippets Tobacco branding rampant at Durga Puja pandals in city; a mockery to DC’s instruction

he Kamrup (Metro) District Administration last Monday appealed to Durga Puja celebration committees in Guwahati to make the pandals tobacco-free zones. The district administration had requested committees to display at least two hoardings at every Durga Puja pandal with the slogan of “No smoking Area – Smoking here is an offense” and “Saradiya Puja Dhapat Mukta Puja”. While the district administration wanted an anti-tobacco promotion at Puja pandals, most pandals across Guwahati were seen promoting tobacco brands. While there is no direct advertising of tobacco products, these are tobacco companies that operate in the guise of pan masala brands. “In times of poor market and ongoing economic crisis, only pan masala brands come forward with huge donations for us, which we accept,” said one of the organizers of a Puja committee under condition of anonymity. In terms of the brands’ presence, they have managed to install large gate arches across most puja pandals and main roads. While these gate arches are being installed temporarily, they leave permanent damages to the roads as well. While the Guwahati Municipal Corporation mandated an advertising fee of up to Rs. 1,00,000 per such gate for a 7-day display from commercial brands, the revenue is seemingly not collected officially and accounted for in their treasury because of corruption at the hoardings branch of the GMC which is headed by its Collector. These advertisements are not only contradictory but also mock the district administration’s “Saradiya Puja Dhapat Mukta Puja” initiative. It remains to be seen if these advertisements have attracted the government’s attention and if the government machinery would get into any action on this.

G PLUS | oct 20 - oct 26, 2018

Jorabat awaits govt study for mitigation of water logging Hiranya Barman

he state government has admitted that rainwater flowing down from the Meghalaya hills and flooding the areas in Guwahati has become a perennial problem of the city. Dispur, laden with a new task, asked Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) and Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) to carry out a detailed study to mitigate the problem. GMDA and ASDMA will also

take help of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) and water experts to carry out the said study. “Heavy flow of rain water from Meghalaya has diminished the capacity of the drain to carry water. A detailed study report has been asked from GMDA, ASDMA, IIT and water experts. The main task of preparing the study has been assigned to ASDMA. Ideas like channeling the water to other big drains and Deepor Beel and other wetlands are also in the pipeline,” a source in GMDA said. Officials at GMDA are of the view that long term measures

The elevation level of the ends of the flyover is much higher than necessary than the middle portion of the flyover. The areas that are witnessing floods were kept low while constructing the flyover earlier. The nearby residents and commuters are facing life threats now Dibyajyoti Medhi, GS, AASU, Kamrup metro unit

taken by government has helped ease water logging problem in areas like Anil Nagar, Tarun Nagar, Nabin nagar, RG Baruah Road etc. “To check the problem arising out of the Meghalaya water in the Dispur area, the PWD has taken up a project to construct 57 drains at the cost of Rs 84 crores. The storm water will be drained out through Bondajaan on to Deepor Beel. A diversion drain is being built from Bahini River to Silsako. Drains are also in building process on the Khanapara-ISBTPamohi-LGBI airport stretch by PWD (NH),” sources said. n

Residents blame unscientific construction of drains

t is to be mentioned that smart showers in the few months mainly of the monsoon season had triggered flash floods near the flyover at the Jorabat trijunction leading to vehicles being stranded in the deluge. The Kamrup (Metro) district administration conducted a fiveday eviction drive across a 5.6 km stretch in the area to clear a rivulet near the national highway up to Byrnihat on the AssamMeghalaya border, dismantling 220 structures in the process. Residents on the other hand revealed that the problem of water logging is not new and moreover has haunted them every monsoon for the past seven to eight years. They said that not even a smart shower is necessary; rather a few minutes of rain were enough to inundate the whole area. Some are blaming unscientific construction in the area as the root cause. “The area which witnesses water logging and floods is low lying and on top of that the clogged drain is adding to the woes. A shower of a minute or two is enough to drown the whole place. There is hardly any way for the water to take its natural course. Besides, there is a culvert which needs to be raised as well,” a resident said. Residents also blamed it on encroachment on the hills, improper drainage and rainwater flowing from the hills of Meghalaya as factors that contribute to the deluge. All Assam Students’ Union,

Eviction drive by district adminstration to break illegal constructions on the Jorabat drain | G Plus Photo Kamrup metro unit general secretary, Dibyajyoti Medhi has blamed the authorities for the water logging problem at Jorabat. He alleged that to suit the interests of some high profile business establishments, authorities concerned had changed the detailed project report multiple times before construction of the flyover. “The elevation level of the ends of the flyover is much higher than necessary than the middle portion of the flyover. The areas that are witnessing floods

are kept low while constructing the flyover earlier. The nearby residents and commuters are facing life threats now,” Medhi told G Plus in a statement. “We have reminded the authorities that the drain from Jorabat to Byrnihat is less than six feet wide in some stretches as against 20 to 22 feet prescribed on the map. The water carrying capacity of the drain has been diminished. Moreover, earth cutting on the hills of Meghalaya aggravated the problem further

resulting in clogging of the outlets by mud after a shower,” he said. The union leader however said that an AASU delegation met the Deputy Commissioner (Kamrup Metro), apprised him of the problem and requested him to take up the matter with his counterpart in the neighbouring Ri Bhoi district of Meghalaya. The Jorabat tri-junction connects Guwahati, the gateway to the northeast, to Meghalaya and Mizoram on one side, and to Upper Assam on the other. n

G PLUS | oct 20 - oct 26, 2018

12 Centre Spread

G PLUS | oct 20 -

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Despite being a somewhat damp D threat that surfaced with the UL prior to the onset of the Puja cele share of the splendour and the sp of the choicest clicks shot by its p and memorable story thr

brations Dusshera cele d the Puja complemente

Young maidens at Kumari Puja - Kamakhya Temple

Blessings of the Goddess and distribution of Prasad

Balloons lent added colour

Kamakhya Kumari Puja at e rituals (R) th Temple; part of

Priest performing ri

Centre Spread

- oct 26, 2018

celebrates a Puja

Devotees throng Kamakhya Temple during Maha Ashtami

The Goddess captured!

Durga Puja, mainly due to a terror LFA-I triggering a bomb blast just ebrations, Guwahati did have its pectacular. G Plus presents some photographers to portray a vivid rough these photographs.

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Immersion at Kachomari Ghat

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The final adieu to the Goddess at Kachom ar

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14 G Talk E

G PLUS | oct 20 - oct 26, 2018 T

A damp puja

hether we want to admit it or not, Durga Puja this year was basically a damp squib and just did not stir the social bonding that Guwahatians are used to at this time of the year. The reasons are not far to seek actually. Starting with that silly bomb blast supposedly triggered by the ULFA-I (as claimed by Paresh Baruah) onto some gross misadministration by the city’s police department and administration, the desire to absorb the puja fever by the city’s residents just went missing from Guwahati. For the new generation of Guwahatians, a bomb blast in the city is a first time experience – something which they are not used to and so, is scary. The police and administration, as observed at ground zero, were clueless about how to handle the situation to the extent that they could not even confirm whether it was a bomb that had burst in the first place until Paresh Baruah himself came to their rescue. Allaying public fears was a far cry; confidence building measures after the incident: zero! And so, through the course of the Puja, it was a field day for rumour-mongers to spread another piece of fake news

that there was another bomb blast in one of the city’s decked up pandals sending revellers scurrying to the safety of their homes. The dampening was complete. Add to all this was the seeming lack of teeth of the administration and police to enforce their own rules and finding convenient measures like arbitrarily placing “No Entry” boards at the entry point of puja pandals and those newly acquired traffic cones that ensured that roadsides were rendered useless by disallowing parking or commuting thereby killing the business of roadside eateries. Beyond all this was of course the administration’s total lack of control over the late-night sound levels in certain localities of Guwahati which are off the usual beaten track. Music and chants blared till late in the night with no real crowds to appreciate it and which only resulted in disturbing the sleep of local residents. Kharguli suffered heavily because of this and complaints to the top brass of the city’s police commissionerate came a cropper. If this puja is any indicator of things to come, we are looking at a damp future. Swapnil Bharali Editor

Diwali bomb or Puja bomb? Sharma: Oi, eibar puja was really dull (This time puja was really dull). No one came out of their homes it seems? Das: Yes. Lagise bomb phuta karone everyone stayed in (The explosion in the city last week made people stay in). Sharma: Bhalei hoise, kom bheed mane kom headache. (That’s good. Less crowd means less headache). Das: But I think the explosion did dampen the puja spirit. People became apprehensive about going out to crowded places. Sharma: O. At one point some people even started saying that there was an explosion at the Maligaon pandal. But that was such a ruse. Thanks to G Plus for issuing a clarification! #FakeMat! Das: On a lighter note, the explosion was weaker than my knees after leg-day at the gym. Hehe! Sharma: Well, small things are creating more impact these days – for example Cyclone “Titli”. I hope the Titli effect affects Diwali celebrations and belittles the pomp at Fancy Bazar. Das: Besi porhisa jen lagise (Looks like you’re reading a lot these days). Anyway, you shouldn’t be saying such things out loud. They’ll see you as ‘anti-certain sections of society.’ No one talks smack about Bihu do they? Sharma: Abey, Bihu was clearly downplayed in the new Priyanka Chopra video and we loved it! We don’t care about it the way we did before. We want the perception of Assam to be changed. We have more than just Bihu to offer. Das: I agree! Sharma: Yes, just say that and not ‘Me Too’

Sidharth Bedi Varma

#MeToo Movement and Men’s Sexuality

he #MeToo movement that started in 2006 in the West has kicked up a storm in India of late and refuses to relent. It has embraced many big and mighty in its fold tarnishing images and tumbling reputations, built overtime. This also brings to the fore an unsavoury phenomenon that has existed in this world since time immemorial - the sexual exploitation of the fairer sex. The names of bigwigs like Nana Patekar, Alok Nath, Kailash Kher, Subhash Ghai, Sajid Khan, MJ Akbar, Chetan Bhagat, Rajat Kapoor, Vikas Bahl, Abhijeet Bhattacharyya etc. doing the rounds only substantiates the fact that no profession could ever be reckoned as safe for women in India. The latest biggie to join the maligned bandwagon is Padma Bhushan recipient, painter Jatin Das, and it proves beyond doubt that name, eminence, reputation, stature, position etc. play little role when it comes to concupiscence in men. Most men have always been accused of objectifying women, an aspect that prevails across societies, whether liberal or conservative in degrees varying as per the values cultivated. However, before all of us go all guns blazing against men and their carnal behaviours, let’s try and understand the behavioural pattern and as to why the majority of male species consistently act in such an obnoxious way despite being aware of the baleful consequences. While women’s desire for sex

As a young aspirant in any profession caught in such an improper situation where you either take the bull by its horns or bite the bullet, more often than not you’d opt for the latter when the bull is a big gun.

may be incited by their mind, memory or emotional feelings, for men desire is purely physical. Men have massive amounts of testosterone racing through their bodies, consistently driving them toward sexual expression. Arousal at the slightest provocation is one of the most normal experiences that a man can have. Most consider their bodies as pleasure machines that they’d like to enjoy in top gear. Any smile, coquetry, insinuation is a hit on the male brain that spikes with ecstasy at the remotest hint of something associated with sex. Blame it on the gods/nature, like it or not, men have been programmed that way biologically. The Indian society beset with a conservative bent of mind eschews talking about sex judging it as a taboo. Boys and girls naturally develop an extreme curiosity towards sex once they step into adolescence. This irrefragably is the right time to talk to them about sex, make them understand about its significance and need in human life, the virtues and vices associated with its use & misuse and guide them in the right, unerring path where they go on to become good human beings with high moral values. Instead, our social surreptitiousness around sex, the ever-increasing curiosity of the young minds and the omnipresence of porn, helps create a monster that inhabits inside most men in this country. Such iniquities when inculcated during the formative years tend to cling to your consciousness for life. The despicable behaviours/actions of these notable personalities that are now surfacing one after the other could well be an upshot of the above circumstances. If there’s one thing that could go against the victims, it would be their silence over years/decades on such serious issues. A wrong is a wrong and the victims must realize that maintaining either a laboured or a convenient silence for years doesn’t help their cause much. It makes you wonder why these ladies remained silent for years and decided to blow the

rShraddhanjali Kanan losing its sheen

O pinion Subhasish Das

lid off now. Apparently, most of these victims who are from the entertainment industry must have preferred to remain quiet then as none could jeopardize their nascent careers that would never have taken off otherwise. Now that most of them have established their names along with a strong foothold in their professions, they decided to raise the alarm. Now with the lurking possibility of the big and mighty overpowering them and the movement & media both losing steam in due course, one only feels that these revelations should have been done years ago when the incidents had taken place and not after years of silence. Realistically, this has only yielded a safe passage for the miscreants. With all these developments, one can only feel terrible for womankind as none of the victims so far have been males. And let us not forget, these are merely a few of the reported cases, perhaps just the tip of the iceberg. Thousands of cases of sexual misconduct, harassment and molestation in this country go unreported. Sexual exploitation of women has always existed in some form or the other in every part of the world. For the way the male brain functions and processes things related to its sexuality, there’s very little probability of the menace being eliminated altogether from the face of the earth. As I mentioned, at best it can be controlled by providing the right counselling to the young minds at the right time. Needless to say, parents and teachers have a massive role to play in not just shaping the young minds but also the future course n mankind takes.

Letter to the Editor

t is saddening to know that the Shraddhanjali Kanan is losing its sheen as the once popular family park on RG Baruah Road. This is occurring due to the negligence and apathy of Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority. As the main attractions in the park have stopped working, the visitors now leave the park disappointed with the upkeep and services of the park. The attractions mainly included laser and musical fountains, water fountains, four rides and four slides meant for children inside the park. The government must make efforts to maintain the recreational space and should take into account that the city has very few properly maintained open and recreational spaces for the residents. Advaita Saikia, Guwahati

In Focus

G PLUS | oct 20 - oct 26, 2018

Century-old Durga Pujas of Guwahati Ahom Royal Family’s Uzanbazar Barowari Puja Mandap Samiti (Since 1889) The oldest Durga Puja celebration in Guwahati takes place at Uzanbazar Barowari Puja Mandap. The puja completed its 129th year this time. Started in 1889 by Ghanakanta Singha Rajkumar of the Ahom royal family, the puja has been a regular affair since then. Initially started in Uzanbazar Rajbari, it was later shifted to Uzanbazar Barowari Puja Mandap permanently in 1934. Like every year, this year, too, the puja was successfully completed with all the rituals and a large number of devotees thronged the pandal to offer their obeisance. Commemorating the 129th year, the puja committee for the first time, organised an Aarti singing competition on Saptami and Ashtami evenings. The prize money for the winners was fixed at Rs. 10,000 for the first prize and Biswajeet Sheel was judged the winner. The second prize was for Rs. 7,000 which was won by Bhaskar Dasgupta and the

third prize of Rs. 5,000 was won by Pompi Dasgupta. A total of 15 participants took part in the Aarti singing competition.

Hari Sabha in Panbazar (Since 1915) The Panbazar Sanatan Dharma Sabha (Hari Sabha) completed 103 years of Durga Puja celebrations this year. It is one the oldest Durga puja venues in Guwahati. The Hari Sabha puja is not only a place of congregation for the Hindus, but also for the Muslims from Lakhtokia area, who participate in organising the week-long celebrations. The Hari Sabha puja is more inclined towards spiritual worship. The Durga Puja is devoid of modern decorations and glitzy pandals and concentrates on worshipping through old Vedic rituals and culture. An interesting trivia is that the idols for the puja have been sculpted by the same family from Jorpukhuri for over one hundred years now. Another trivia is that a single family has been sitting as priests for the puja since its inception. Moreover, all the idols are aligned on the same platform and are not sculpted as

individuals. During immersion, the Hari Sabha committee used to carry the idols on shoulders from the venue to the ghat. For the past three years, there has been dearth of people to carry the idols, and so, the committee has been using a trolley.

Samiti Mandap. The puja follows the Puranic system of worship. There is no

this puja and it is purely spiritual in nature. This year the puja committee organised Ojapali, Nagara Naam, Aayotir Naam and Chandi Paath as main attractions.

West Guwahati Puja Samiti (Since 1901) The Paschim Guwahati Durga puja has completed 117 years. It started in 1901 opposite the Bharalumukh Police Station at the Paschim Guwahati Puja

animal or any other form of sacrifice in

The new Awesome Assam commercial of Assam Tourism featuring Priyanka Chopra received as much appreciation as criticism from followers of G Plus. Below are some of the choicest picks. Mridul Sharma Don’t understand why people need Bihu, Assam silk and rhinos everywhere. There’s much more than that I believe. One shouldn’t expect everything in one video. Learn to appreciate things. If you all are such great critics you should equally do great in life. Have you been doing the same things to yourself? I’m sure not or else you would have been equally successful in life. We aren’t such bad people as we show ourselves on social media. That’s all I can say. Stop criticizing and appreciate that such a beautiful video has come up for Assam and now it will help our state to grow. There are many good things we are clearly not looking at. I personally loved the video. Great work Priyanka Chopra and team.

Angira S Sengupta What I can see is only Priyanka Chopra in the video. Where is the actual tourism part? Where is our world famous rhino? Where is famous Bihu dance? No sign of Majuli. Very disappointing! I can nowhere relate to this video promoting Assam tourism. It seems like another trailer of Priyanka’s Bollywood movie. Just glamour has been shown in this video instead of the real beauty of Assam. Many are going to like this, especially Priyanka Chopra’s fans but being a person residing in Assam I cannot relate to this video at all.

Barasha Sonowal Changmai Here comes the great critic brigade. Stop judging, live this moment, feel blessed that you belong to this land, do your part, do whatever you can for the best of your motherland, share it with your friends and invite them to visit our Assam. We all represent this land, no matter wherever we go, so try to be a good example. It’s a beautiful video, excellent work by Assam Tourism and Priyanka Chopra. Din Chengfa Had this been some other state, I would have definitely felt like visiting the place. Beautifully shot. None of us can change the fact that she is the brand ambassador for Assam tourism. She is an international figure from the advertising point of view. I think this is brilliant. So instead of criticizing on why so much is being spent on her, let us just appreciate this beautiful TVC with beautiful Priyanka in it. Trishant Das No legacy of Tezpur, no Manas National Park, no Suryapahar, no Barak Valley, no Majuli, no rhino etc. The ad covers only 10 percent of the beauty of Assam. 99 percent of what is shown is in upper Assam only. Funny! It looks like promotion of Kaziranga, elite properties promotions, which the normal middle class can never afford. Definitely not going to share this video. Total waste. Only thing that is promoted in this video is Priyanka Chopra.

16 Feature

G PLUS | oct 20 - oct 26, 2018

MJ Akbar vs #MeToo Movement: How defamation cases play out in India • To constitute the offence of defamation, there has to be imputation and the imputation has to be made in the manner as prescribed in the provision. • Like in any criminal case, the offence of defamation has to be proved beyond any reasonable doubt and the trial includes examination of ocular and documentary evidence of both sides, arguments etc.

Krishna Sarma

“

Truth draws strength from itself and not from the number of votes in its favour,” said Pope Benedict XVI. In an ideal world, this may resonate with us all especially in the light of the #MeToo allegations around the world and in India. However, in the real world, these allegations have to be proven and a due process has to be followed. It was expected that MJ Akbar and others accused of sexual misconduct would retaliate against the #MeToo outpouring of anger on social media and publications. On October 15, 2018, he filed a criminal defamation case against Priya Ramani, the first journalist who went public with sexual harassment allegations against him, under Section 500 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) before the Chief Metropolitan Magistrate, Patiala House District Court, Delhi.

What The Law Says A defamation complaint is filed under Section 500 because it provides for the punishment and Section 499 of IPC provides the ingredients of what constitutes the offence of defamation. Both are critical. To constitute the offence, there has to be imputation and the imputation has to be made in the manner as prescribed in the provision. Further, such an imputation has to be made with the intention of causing harm or having reason to believe that such imputation will harm the reputation of the person about whom it is made. The criminal offence emphasizes on the intention or harm. Section 44 of IPC defines ‘injury’ as any harm whatever illegally caused to any person, in body, mind, reputation or property. Section 499 provides for harm caused to the reputation of a person.

There are four explanations to Section 499. Explanation No. 4 is critical as it states that an imputation can only be treated as harm of a person’s reputation if it directly or indirectly does so in the estimation of others (ordinary, right thinking member of society). There are a number of exceptions to Section 499 as well. The first exception stipulates that it is not defamation to impute anything which is true concerning any person, if it be for the public good that the imputation should be made or published. The onus of proving these two ingredients i.e., ‘truth of the imputation’ and ‘the publication of the imputation for the public good’ is on the accused. Section 500 of IPC for punishment is in respect of the said offence. The punishment for defamation is simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years, or a fine, or both. Section 199 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (Cr.P.C) provides for the prosecution of defamation and prescribes the procedure for deciding a defamation case. Every complaint shall set forth the facts which constitute the offence alleged, the

A Notable Precedent The Supreme Court in Subramaniam Swamy vs. Union of India (UOI) and Ors., in 2016 upheld the constitutional validity of Sections 499 and 500 of the IPC. “A defamatory statement is a statement which tends to lower a

his office, profession, calling trade or business”. Halsburys Laws of England, Fourth Edition, Vol. 28 Akbar (the complainant) has stated in his complaint that the accused person has admitted that the complainant has never done anything to her and that her statements are malicious, fabricated and salacious imputations to harm the reputation of the complainant. Like in any criminal case, the offence of defamation has to be proved beyond any reasonable doubt and the trial includes examination of ocular and documentary evidence of both sides, arguments etc.

A Hollywood Parallel

nature of such offence and such other particulars as are reasonably sufficient to give notice to the accused of the offence alleged to have been committed by him.

person in the estimation of right thinking members of the society generally or to cause him to be shunned or avoided or to expose him to hatred, contempt or ridicule, or to convey an imputation on him disparaging or injurious to him in

It is pertinent to mention that the allegations against Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein first came to light in a New York Times article on October 5, 2017. He was sacked by the board of his company (that bears his name) three days later. Within a fortnight, police in the UK and US police were investigating a number of sexual assault allegations involving Harvey

Weinstein. More women launched allegations and cases against him. Finally on May 25, 2018 Weinstein turned himself in to the New York police — he was charged with rape and several other counts of sexual abuse against two women. On May 10, 2018 Weinstein’s lawyer had said that he believes the allegations are “legally defective or factually not supported”. In Akbar’s case, the defence in the defamation case has got support to plead the First Exception to Section 499 with the filing of an affidavit by 19 women who had worked in Asian Age and who has asked the court to consider their experiences with Akbar’s “predatory behaviour”. Our experience in handling defamation cases is that they like other cases in India take 8-10 years and the essence and purpose of the cases are usually lost in the bargain. But this case may prove to be Akbar’s nemesis and end up as a precedent setting case for the #MeToo movement in India. Krishna Sarma is managing partner at Corporate Law Group. n

Trotter

G PLUS | oct 20 - oct 26, 2018

Restaurant employee travels 800 kms to deliver pizza to terminally ill man

pizzeria employee in Michigan, USA, went out of his way – rather literally - to deliver pizza to a man battling cancer. When Julie and Rich Morgan lived in Michigan 25 years ago, they enjoyed pies from Steve’s Pizza on every pay day. Even after the couple relocated to Indianapolis, the pizza from Steve’s Pizza remained the “gold standard” for them, said Julie Morgan in a viral Facebook post. In fact, the couple had planned to travel to Michigan to get the pizza - but a trip to the emergency room changed their plans. “I took Rich to the ER where he landed in ICU for five days and where we learned the news that his valiant cancer battle was coming to an end,” said Julie.

Knowing what the pizza meant to them, Julie’s dad called the pizzeria and asked if they could send Rich a card to cheer them up. However, the manager there, named Dalton, decided to do one better. “Without hesitation Dalton

asked what kind of pizza we wanted and told my father he would bring it to us (by the way, Steve’s doesn’t deliver). My dad clarified that we were in Indianapolis, at least three and a half hours away from Battle Creek.

Dalton said he understood that and would leave after he closed the store,” said Julie in her Facebook post. “And so, while Rich and I slept, at 2:30 AM, Dalton rolled into our driveway, left the car running and delivered two extra special pizzas to my waiting family.” While Julie says that she is “beyond overwhelmed and humbled by this act of genuine kindness”, people on social media have not been able to stop praising Dalton, who went above and beyond to deliver pizzas to a terminally ill man. He travelled around 500 miles - or 800 kms to deliver the pies. Since being shared online two days ago, Julie’s post has already collected hundreds of comments and over 3,000 ‘shares’. (Source: uk.businessinsider)

These extreme piercings at a vegetarian festival will leave you wincing

s burning incense fills the air, devotees in trance force skewers and swords through their cheeks as part of a vegetarian festival in Thailand. The Taoist ‘Nine Emperor Gods’ event is held on the holiday island of Phuket each year. It coincides with observances of Chinese communities across the region who refrain from meat and other indulgences such as drinking and gambling. Participants on the island – which has a sizeable Chinese population – go above and beyond, piercing cheeks and tongues with an assortment of blades, spikes, skewers and other more exotic items – including petrol pumps. The festival did not take place last year because of a lengthy mourning period following the death of the Thai king in October 2016. But yesterday it was back in full swing. One man stuck two wrenches through his right cheek, while another shook his head side to

side and cut his tongue with an axe blade, blood dripping down his chest. A fishing rod, anchor and part of a palm leaf were also put to use as

festival-goers marched in processions with the items poking out of their mouths. “The pierced men are the deities who descend down to Earth to show their miracles

and the piercing means that the deities suffer so that people’s sins are cleansed,” said Pathompong Reanthong, 24, one of the organisers. “The key to this festival is for the people to observe the religious precepts, and rid themselves of meat consumption. It’s actually a festival to ward off bad luck,” he added. Many work themselves into a trance before piercing which is said to numb the pain. Participants are expected not to eat meat during the festival. The celebration dates back to 1825, according to local folklore, when a visiting Chinese opera troupe fell ill. They are believed to have adopted a vegetarian diet and carried out Taoist rituals in an effort to improve their health. Walking across hot coals is also incorporated into the final stages of the event which is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of people. (Source: metro.co)

From Anand Mahindra’s #WhatsAppWonderBox: Delightful clip of US cops doing Garba

e have business tycoon Anand Mahindra to thank for one of the best videos we have seen this Navratri - that of police officers in New York doing the Garba. Time and again, Mr Mahindra has dipped into what he calls his WhatsApp wonder box to give us wonderfully entertaining videos, and this time was no different. He shared the delightful clip of New York cops joining a group of women and dancing with them in a Tweet. “Given the number of garba videos I’ve posted I risk having my name changed to Anand Garbindra,” he joked. “But I can’t resist sharing this classic I received now in my #whatsappwonderbox.” According to Mahindra, the clip was filmed in New York where cops were meant to shut down the late-

night revelry but instead decided to join in! The video shows them showing off their Garba moves with a huge crowd cheering them on and dancing with them. The festival of Navratri is one of the most widely-celebrated Hindu festivals. The nine-

day long festival is celebrated to honour Goddess Durga. Garba and Dandiya - folk dances from Gujarat and Rajasthan - are traditionally played during this time. (Source: pioneernews)

Tesco worker suing supermarket for £20k after colleague ‘farted in his face’

Tesco worker who claims he was bullied because he was a Muslim is suing the company after a colleague “broke wind in his face.” Customer assistant Atif Masood is suing the supermarket chain for harassment and race discrimination. The 42-year-old is demanding

In legal papers submitted to the London South employment tribunal, Masood claimed that there was “too much racism” in the Thornton Heath store. He claimed and felt he was discriminated against by colleagues because he was Pakistani. Masood, who has worked for Tesco since 2006, reportedly raised an internal griev-

£20,000 after he claimed the incident at a branch in Thornton Heath was not investigated properly. Masood claimed it was one of a number of acts of “less favourable treatment” he suffered because of his Muslim background. Tesco denied the claims despite an internal investigation found that there was “sufficient evidence” from CCTV footage to support his farting allegation.

ance, which in February this year found no evidence of race discrimination and that the statements were made with the intention of being a “joke.” A Tesco spokesperson told Mail Online: “Everyone is welcome at Tesco regardless of their gender, race, background or education. We are unable to comment on ongoing legal proceedings or the specifics of this case.” (Source: mirror.co)

18 Review

G PLUS | oct 20 - oct 26, 2018

Starring: Utkarsh Sharma, Ishita Chauhan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, etc. Director: Anil Sharma

G Movie Review

GENIUS

enius is Uttkarsh Sharma’s debut film. It comes from an oldtime masala filmmaker and Utkarsh gets to do what heroes of the 70s and 80s build their careers on a bit of everything – comedy, romance, action and songand-dance – while saving his country. The story revolves around a young IIT genius who lands himself on a mission for the Research and Analysis Wing of India (RAW), but his heart beats as much for his lady love as it does for his nation. He must do what it takes to save both. At one time he is a college goof ball, at another, a dash-

ing charmer and a campus hero with top scores. Vasudev Shashtri (Utkarsh Sharma) can shoot vedic chants and bullets with equal ease, chase a speeding convoy on a bicycle with a limping foot and solve rubik cubes in record time to save lives. Director Anil Sharma mounts a huge responsibility on his son’s lean shoulders to heroically outsmart everyone else including the film’s villain Nawazuddin Siddiqui. In an attempt to make a pot-boiler, the narrative packs in too many elements, but not all of them land. Film’s debutante actress Ishita Chauhan has the glam quotient, but shows little expression n to convey emotion.

S T

he Honor Play has been launched in India by Huawei sub-brand Honor. The Honor Play is also the first smartphone in India to feature GPU Turbo, a technology that Huawei is touting to be the next big revolutioninmobilegaming. The phone has been priced at Rs. 19,999 for the 4GB RAM variant and Rs. 23,999 for the 6GB RAM configuration.

Design: With metal unibody, vertically aligneddualrearcameras,19.5:9display and Huawei’s current flagship SoC,theHonorPlaylookspromising onpaper. It is a departure from Huawei and Honor’s recent fascination with glass backs, which we have seen a lot of with recent premium offerings. While offering a classy and elegant look, glass cannot compete with metal in terms of durability and

sturdiness. The Honor Play feels significantly less slippery than, say, the Honor 10, but definitely doesn’t look as premium. The tall display and thin body also make the phone feelabittoolargetoholdcomfortably insmallerhands. The Honor Play is not exactly comfortable to hold, although it is compact for a smart phone with a 6.3-inch display. In fact, this big screen fits into the form factor of a 5.5-inch phone. This smartphone is available in Navy Blue and Midnight Black in India.

Gold

02:00 PM, 05:15 PM

09:10 AM, 10:30 AM, 01:45

Genius

PM, 05:00 PM, 08:15 PM Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi 09:20 AM, 12:05 PM, 03:05 PM, 06:05 PM, 09:05 PM Genius 09:25 AM, 03:00 PM Alpha, English, 3D 12:25 PM, 05:50 PM, 08:10 PM Mile 22, English, 2D 12:40 PM, 06:30 PM 02:45 PM, 08:50 PM

Anuradha Cineplex Noonmati 0361 2656968

tra-masculine men invoking ultra-muscular authority. Alpha has two heroes – one a skinny boy entering his teens, almost feminine in appearance, who has to step into the large, hunter-gatherer shoes of his father, the chief of their tribe; and the second, a wolf, which attacks him, and which by the laws of the wild, he should kill but chooses to save. Much of it is, of course, CGI. But cinematographer Martin Gschlacht lays out such striking landscapes and images in 3D, that you are willing to see past the parts where the CGI is glaring. n

Honor Play

Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi

Satyameva Jayate

Starring: Kodi Smit-McPhee, Jóhannes Haukur Jóhannesson Director: Albert Hughes chreyer, an associate professor of anthropology, took two years to piece together the new language that is spoken by the characters in this film, which is set somewhere in the European region during the Ice Age. And that is not even the most remarkable thing about Alpha. It is how the films unfolds, slowly and gradually, first appearing alarmingly like a Hollywood extravaganza, then a simple fairy tale, before completely upturning the idea of what that the term ‘alpha’ has come to mean — especially now, in a world increasingly led by ul-

Cinepolis Christian Basti 09435025808

Alpha, English, 3D 10:30 AM, 03:15 PM Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi 12:30 PM, 05:15 PM Gold 08:15 PM

Movie Review

ALPHA

Gold Cinema

02:15 PM, 05:00 PM

Grande Cines Paltan Bazar 09854017771 Alpha, English, 3D 10:45 AM, 03:30 PM Gold 11:30 AM, 06:00 PM, 08:30 PM Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi 12:45 PM, 05:30 PM Genius 03:00 PM Satyameva Jayate 09:00 PM

PVR Cinemas Dona Planet 08800900009 Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi 09:30 AM, 03:30 PM, 09:30 PM Gold 10:00 AM, 12:20 PM, 06:30 PM Alpha, English, 3D 01:15 PM, 09:45 PM

Paltan Bazaar 09854066166

Genius

Satyameva Jayate

Satyameva Jayate 06:40 PM

11:00 AM, 08:00 PM

Specifications:

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screen gets too reflective under directsunlight.

The Honor Play is powered by the company’s own flagship HiSilicon Kirin970processor,whichhaspreviouslybeenusedinseveralmodels. The Honor Play also has a non-removable 3,750mAh battery and 64GB of onboard UFS 2.1 storage. In terms of connectivity, the Honor Play features 4G VoLTE, dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth v4.2 LE, GPS/ A-GPS, GLONASS, a USB Type-C port, and a 3.5mm audio jack. Sensors include an accelerometer, an ambient light sensor, an electronic compass, a gyroscope, and a proximity sensor. This phone supports dual SIMs (Nano) and both can latch onto4Gnetworkssimultaneously.

Camera: At the rear, the Honor Play sports a vertically stacked pair of cameras. There is a 16-megapixel primary sensor with an f/2.2 aperture, and a 2-megapixel depth sensor with an f/2.4 aperture, coupled with an LED flash. The front camera comes with a 16-megapixel resolution and a f/2.0 aperture that offers well-balanced selfies in good light conditions with good contrast and colors.

Verdict:

Display: The 6.3-inch full-HD+ IPS LCD panel has a resolution of 1080x2340 pixelsanda19.5:9aspectratio.. The display on the Honor Play has great viewing angles and delivers

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good colour reproduction. Outdoor legibility was average, because the

The Honor Play is the most affordable smartphone from Huawei to rock the Kirin 970 SoC, which makes for good overall value. It has a sleek and elegant design with a vibrant display. However, its physical size and average cameras might be dealbreakers for some. n

Entertainment

G PLUS | oct 20 - oct 26, 2018

‘Raja Returns’ to hit the theatres on October 26 Kalyan Kumar Kalita

aja is a young boy who ran away to Delhi without informing anyone at home at the age of 15 because of his poor economic condition and so that he could search for a job. After 12 years, Raja comes back to his native village and starts showing himself off as a rich man. But did Raja actually become rich in Delhi? What happened with him at the

village? All this suspense will be revealed in the upcoming fulllength Assamese feature film ‘Raja Returns’ directed and produced by Kishor Das under the banner of ‘KD Films’. The film’s story-screenplay and dialogues have been penned by

the director himself. As the name suggests, the story of the film has a novelty factor to it. According to the director Kishor Das, the main story begins after the return of Raja, which is why the film is titled ‘Raja Returns’. He also added that the film is full of comedy so that movie lovers will find some newage entertainment through all the comic characters. The movie sequences are designed in such a way that though the characters wanted to do some serious work the results become comic.

The love story played by the lead pair has also been arranged in a different manner. The central role of ‘Raja’ in the film has been portrayed by Bhargav Das, whereas the role of the lead heroine has been essayed by Fairy Priya Ahmed. Other cast and

crew members include Sagarika Goswami, Apurba Goswami, Bijit Deb Choudhury, Manash Sarma, Amitabh Rajkhowa, Saju Ahmed, Madan Das, Dilip Dutta and Kishor Das. The character of ‘Mero’ has been played by Anshuman Bhuyan. The film’s music has been scored by Poran Borkatoky (Jojo). All the four songs of the film have already been released in video format on social networking sites like YouTube and Facebook. Among them, the song ‘Eketi Batere’ has been penned by Ibson Lal Baruah and rendered by Papon, the song ‘Jone Thupi Thupi Xore’ has been penned by Mridul Das and rendered by Zubeen Garg, the song ‘Tumi Mor’ has been penned by Rajdweep and rendered by Rohit Sonar and Pompi Gogoi and the last song ‘Biya Naam’ has been written by Ibson Lal Baruah and rendered by Gitanjali Das. All the songs have already become popular among the listeners. The movie’s official trailer has also been highly appreciated by the audiences. At a time, where there arises a common issue of weak publicity related to Assamese films, the production team and all the cast and crew of ‘Raja Returns’ adopted some novel promotional activities to create awareness about the movie among the people of Assam. According to Kishor Das, the movie will hit the theatre on October 26 all over Assam. ‘KD Films’ is very much hopeful about this first venture of theirs.

Guwahati band to perform in Copenhagen

uwahati band “Rain in Sahara” recently announced that it will be performing at the 2018 IACC International Anti-Corruption Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark on 23rd October. In this huge honour of being part of an International Social Justice Music movement

are excited to be participating in this conference, learning about anti-corruption strategies and making new allies and friends from around the world. The band will be performing and premiering some brand new original music which focuses on some of the critical social challenges in northeast and also

it will be sharing the stage with conscious artists such as Yasiin Bey (formerly known as Mos Def) and other artists from around the world in one of the biggest anti-corruption conferences in the world. “Rain in Sahara” has been following the work of Transparency International and

India. The band expressed its gratitude to Danida (Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Denmark) and JM International - JMI for the opportunity to be part of the conference and has promised to do its best to carry the voices of Assam and northeast to the world.

Ghy musicians take to social media to highlight long prevailing low wages of performing bands

ijay Chetri, a Guwahati based guitarist, who performs with the band 'Jupiter Island', has started a campaign called #bandkranti on social media, to highlight the poor payment and low remunerations to bands performing live on the various stages of Guwahati including pubs and discotheques. The idea was to take forward the demands of the unheard people to the organizers and the owners of city pubs, where the band mostly gets to perform. Although music is revered in this part of the region, the challenges that musicians face are mostly not heard. With the initiative to take their problems to

the people, the initiative #bandkranti was started. With time, #bandkranti has become a revolution, raising the voices of the people suffering the same plight, and are unanimously fighting against it on social media. The biggest and the most common challenge that bands face are with the finances. Most of the time, they end up spending more than the amount they earn. Today, social media is considered to be the strongest platform to raise issues and concerns, and the musicians are this time taking it to social media to highlight those. According to reports, the musicians might even decide to boycott event organizers and pubs, if their demands are not met.

20 Fun

G PLUS | oct 20 - oct 26, 2018

Horoscope of the week In the very beginning itself, you may feel restless due to a weird kind of feeling of displeasure. To overcome this, you will stay busy with other matters. However working hard, you may not get desired results at desired time. Some obstacles and distractions may come across the way. Benevolent influence of Jupiter will help you keep up the tempo to achieve success.

The planetary position depicts that married individuals will face some issues in their married life. You may develop some misunderstandings and differences which may lead to weakened relationship. To overcome this and remain comfortable, responding impulsively or becoming a participant of long-stretched debate is not the solution.

Employed ones will make determined efforts to receive appreciation from seniors at workplace. Mercury and Jupiter together will work well to keep you in a strong position on financial front. With increase in earnings, your personal habitual expenses are also going to increase this week.

Moon coming in contact with strong Saturn is to prompt you to formulate a strong strategy to strike it big. Be ready with all the traits that may be needed to implement your strategy. Planets show that you may meet some very influential people during this week, who may come to your help in future. This time may be quite busy for you, especially on the occupational front.

You will remain concerned about the domestic matters. Planets show that some repairing work will be required in your house on the urgent basis. Good for the business folks as you will be in strong position, with a steady growth. No major expenses are foreseen which may trouble you in planning out the finance.

The ruler of your Sign Mars is now moving through your 4th House. It has a direct aspect over your 10th House of karma and profession. This will have an energetic effect on the zone of your home and heart as well as work matters. Mars will also reveal newer career avenues for you, giving you a chance to earn handsomely.

Some discontent in your family may put you in discomfort, this week. You need to handle this situation tactfully, says Ganesha. Professionals and business persons must remain attentive about receivables, if any.

Combination of Moon and Saturn moving through your Sign, when the week begins, may fill your mind with strategies, work and success related agendas. You will now wish to push ahead your prospects. Benevolent Jupiter and crafty Mercury move through your 11th House – and this may work well in precipitating encouraging monetary gains.

Health must remain your top priority this week, Take time to work on your strength and fitness. Cut stress and bad food. There seems a possibility of your incurring a major expense, which may make you dig into your savings. Union of strong Saturn and Moon in the 12th House seems to be the culprit, behind this.

You may keen to connect with high-worth clients or influential people to enhance your network and prospects, when the week begins. Travel is on the menu, and so is hobnobbing with the right gentry. However, Mars and Ketu, moving through your 12th House may not make this easy for you.

Arjuna defeated the entire Kaurava Army including Bhishma, Drona and lakhs of soldiers on which occasion?

Which young but very important branch of modern medicine is celebrated on 16th October to commemorate something WTG Morton did on Gilbert Abott on this day in 1846?

curio-city

Which popular Hungarian stew of meat and vegetables flavoured with Paprika shares its name with a round of hands in Bridge involving redistribution of cards after no one has bid?

Which tourist spot in Assam is also known as White Ant Hill?

Who is the first Asian player to score a hattrick in football at the Olympics?

Identify this first female superstar of Bollywood? Dr. Soubhadra Chakrabarty This quiz has been brought to you by Brain Jam, a property of Priya Communications

Garfield By Jim Davis

7 6 5

1 3 6 5 1 9 9 2 3 7 1 6 4 6 7 9 8 8 1 1 4 3 9 5 8 6 6 5 Daily Sudoku: Sat 20-Oct-2018 1 8

6 2

2 9 4

7 1

4 5 5 7 3 7 2 4 8 1

3 9 3

medium

Daily Sudoku: Fri 12-Oct-2018

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2 last 9 3week 1 7 solution 6 5 4 8 8 7 4 3 5 2 9 6 1 1 9 7 3 4 6 8 2 5 6 5 1 9 4 8 3 7 2 8 4 5 9 2 1 7 6 3 3 6 7 4 1 5 2 8 9 3 6 2 7 8 5 1 9 4 5 4 8 2 3 9 6 1 7 6 7 9 5 1 8 3 4 2 9 1 2 6 8 7 4 3 5 4 8 1 6 3 2 5 7 9 1 8 6 5 9 3 7 2 4 4 92 71 68 85 16 45 32 93 7 1 76 44 21 39 63 79 25 58 8 7 3 6 2 5 9 4 1 medium 8 Daily Sudoku: Sat 20-Oct-2018

2 1 4 8 6 3 9 5 7 Daily Sudoku: Fri 12-Oct-2018

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http://www.dailysudoku.com/

1. Dussehra or Vijayadashami 2. World Anaesthesia Day; Abott was anesthetized by Morton on this day for a tooth extraction in Boston, Massachusetts 3. Goulash 4. Haflong 5. Neville de Souza of India against Australia at the Melbourne Summer Olympics Games in 1956 6. Sulochana (Ruby Myers)

curio-city

Sudoku

Position of the planets here foretells that things may not go well in your personal life and probably, you may not be able to find a way to get off this. The only solution is keeping you busy with other matters. Moon will now meet wily Saturn moving through the 9th House. This is the good time to stick to your strategy for the longterm gain in financial front.

You want to start this week with too much energy and enthusiasm but planets don’t seem well aligned to support you on this count. However some tiny frequent gains are there to keep up the tempo. For the loved ones, things may not go well these days.

Word of the week patzer noun [paht-ser, pat-] a casual, amateurish chess player.

Crossword Across

Down

1 Salad plant (10) 7 Robbery at gunpoint (5-2) 8 Scatter (5) 10 Smell strongly (4) 11 Fatal — tram line (anag) (8) 13 Satellite of Neptune — minor sea god (6) 15 Zorba’s land (6) 17 Cut (8) 18 Woodwind instrument (4) 21 Be jubilant (5) 22 Ardent (7) 23 Antibiotic (10)

1 Chess player moving first (5) 2 Capture (4) 3 Torn (6) 4 Culinary herb (8) 5 Peculiar (7) 6 Writing desk (10) 9 Gnu (10) 12 English Pre-Raphaelite poet and painter, d. 1882 (8) 14 Encompass (7) 16 Russian wolfhound (6) 19 Labour PM, b. 1951 (5) 20 Tumble (4)

Last week’s solution

Lifestyle

G PLUS | oct 20 - oct 26, 2018

Know the reasons behind financial crisis due to Vaastu defects 1. Existence of underground water storage or natural water in south to west region. 2. Light weight and maximum open field in north to east region is a favourable sign. 3. If there is heavy structure in this region i.e. the northeast, it will adversely affect wealth inflow. 4. Presence of red, orange, grey colours at northeast also disturb cash flow in your business. 5. Pre se nce of fire re late d aspects like kitchen, boiler, furnace, air conditioning units, heavy structures, heavy duty fans or exhaust units at northeast, east or north also hamper money inflow. 6. Absence of prayer room in the house also has negative effects. 7. Even though presence of toilet, cuts, staircase, upraised levels at northeast affect negatively. 8. Any mismatch of fire element in north to east region causes delay and obstacles (increase in cost), and increases unproductive expenses thereby reducing profitability. 9. Any imbalance of earth

element in NE region will lead to stoppage of wealth inflow and also cause blockage and loss of funds.

A few Vaastu tips for home 1. Any household is personified by its owner. So the name of the owner should be prominently displayed. Be it an apartment or an independent house, a name plate should be there. Make sure that the name plate does not get rusted or the name should not get erased due to atmospheric conditions. A nameplate is supposed to bring in opportunities. 2. The fire element is capable of destroying a lot of negative energy and it wards off evil energy. So it is very auspicious to light an earthen lamp in the morning and in the evening. Dark rooms and corners should have bright lights kept lit in between for the same purpose. 3. The fire element is enhanced by placing the kitchen in the southeast area of the house. If this is not possible, at least ensure that the stove is placed in the southeast corner of the kitchen. 4. Hindus hang lemons and

chilli on a thread on the doorway and change it every Saturday and Tuesday. The lemons can absorb negative energy. You can also keep it in a glass of water with salt. Plain salt can also absorb negative energy. Salt can be kept in the corners of the house changing every fortnight or so. 5. Do not keep medicines in the kitchen. They should be kept in the northeast if possible for better performance. 6. Mirrors should be avoided in the kitchen. However, they can be kept at north or east of the dining area. 7. Meditation can dispel negative energy. Those who cannot meditate should develop the habit of chanting mantras like the Aum, Amen etc. 8. Keep holy water in the dark corners of the house and change it regularly. Holy water can be generated by keeping it in the place of worship. 9. Sacred symbols like the Om or the Swastika are very powerful. They should be displayed over the main entrance.

10. The sound of metallic bells is very soothing and it can break energy patterns as well as block negative energy. Windchimes are very effective in this regard and they can be hung on doors and windows where the wind will make them chime. 11. Some religious rites like the Ganesh Puja or Vaastu puja

should be done in the house at least once in three years to cleanse the household. People of other religions can perform their own rituals which have cleansing effect. Hemanta Kumar Sarmah Engineer, Businessman, Advanced Pranic Healer and Su Jok Acupressure specialist.

Winter wardrobe essentials for women 1. Skinny jeans: Skinny jeans are perfect for winter as their streamlined silhouette allows you to layer multiple items on top for warmth.

any winter outfit and the bigger, the better we say! There are countless ways to style this cold

Wear them with flat heel booties and a leather jacket in the day or pointy toe heels and a silk drape top for a night out on the town. These go-to pants can do no wrong.

weather accessory, either thrown carelessly over your shoulder or wrapped around multiple times.

2. Blanket wrap scarf:

3. Turtleneck top:

The blanket wrap scarf is a chic and effortless addition to

Investing in a turtleneck top will ensure that your neck is nice

and snug all winter long! This style

looks good with anything whether it be paired with a sweater and sleeveless dress, or simply worn on its own with jeans.

4. Knitted jumper dress:

5. Classic trench coat:

The easiest way to show a little leg and stay cosy at the same time is by wearing a knitted jumper dress. For added warmth, pair it

Trench coats keep you warm without giving you a chance to bargain on your style, notwithstanding for a bit. A trench coat is lightweight yet waterproof, organized yet agreeable, and an exemplary proclamation in a non-

with tights or pop your favourite winter coat on top, which can be removed once inside. Choose from a form-fitting style or a relaxed version; you really canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go wrong here, and a bonus is that this style looks good with most shoes.

partisan shading. A camel shaded trench coat is an ageless piece that unquestionably merits a place in your winter closet. Take motivation from B-town divas, which are shaking the exemplary piece with Indian wear, demonstrating its flexibility as a dress thing that can be combined up with everything.

22 Buzz

G PLUS | oct 20 - oct 26, 2018

State-level science and engineering fair from Nov 15

state-level science and engineering fair will be held at the Regional Science Centre, Guwahati. The twoday event will be held on 15th and 16th November. The event is only for school and college students and the last date of registration is November 5. Five best projects selected in Category A from the fair will participate in Eastern India Science Fair to be held in Kolkata from January 8-12, 2019. There will be two categories to participate - Category A and Category B. Students from class 6 to 12 can participate in Category A, whereas college students will be in category B. The main theme of the fair is “Scientific Solutions for Challenges in Life.” The fair is open for

schools, colleges and science clubs. “The primary objective of organising this science and engineering fair is to provide a

efficient in problem solving, besides boosting creativity through a learning process. The participants may

common platform to the school and college going students to interact and share their ideas and curiosity on science and technology and make them

also showcase their models and creativeness with their innovative ideas on the above themes,” stated the event release. n

USTM signes MoU with Aligarh Muslim University

he University of Science & Technology Meghalaya (USTM) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) amidst an august gathering at Aligarh

MoU signing ceremony at AMU. Speaking during the occasion, Tariq Mansoor said, “We are happy to sign MoU with USTM and I am sure the two universities can develop a fruitful partnership. We will be happy to provide training to USTM staff in academic and

recently. The MoU was signed by Tariq Mansoor, Vice Chancellor, AMU and Mahbubul Hoque, Chancellor, USTM in the presence of Abdul Hamid, Registrar, AMU and Alaka Sarma, Pro-Vice Chancellor, USTM. Apart from the academics and high officials from AMU, a ten-member team from USTM took part in the

administrative matters.” He said that the doors of AMU are open for everybody, as AMU acts as a catalyst and role model for other educational institutions for development of education among the people. USTM Chancellor M Hoque expressed his gratefulness

towards AMU for this partnership. He said that USTM will be greatly benefitted by this agreement as AMU has promised to extend guidance in academic and administrative matters. It has been a historic moment for USTM, he added. As per the MoU, AMU will mentor USTM to achieve its objectives, through various programmes such as joint supervision for PhD scholars, AMU faculty support to USTM in the areas of bio-technology, chemistry, environment science, business administration and social sciences, hosting of selected USTM students for short period, and permission to select final year students of USTM to do their project work at AMU. Apart from these, certain other activities will be undertaken jointly by both the universities, such as, joint submission of collaborative projects, jointly organising seminars and workshops. AMU will also provide guidance in infrastructure development and promotion of sports. n

Workshop on Foldscopes (origami microscopes) held

workshop on Foldscope was recently held in the city. Sponsored by the Dept of Biotechnology, Govt of India, the

potential to change the way we view life and microorganisms around us. Invented a few years ago by Manu Prakash and Jim Cybulski from Stanford University,

workshop was organised by Cotton University in collaboration with the Regional Science Centre. It was aimed at creating curiosity about this frugal, yet powerful microscope, Foldscope. Around 100 students of classes VIII to X and teachers from Assam Jatiya Vidyalaya, Maharishi Vidya Mandir Silpukhuri and Maria’s Public School took part in the workshop. Foldscopes are origami microscopes that have the

these pocket-sized tools are now making their way to biodiverse, yet remote parts of the world. Undergraduate students in several corners of the country are now enjoying the chance to explore the world of microscopic organisms with a microscope that they can take anywhere, following an initiative by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) to reach Prakash Lab’s lowcost paper folding-microscope, n the Foldscope to them.

Rita Chowdhury's Chinatown Days longlisted for DSC Prize

enowned Assam author Rita Chowdhury's novel Chinatown Days has made it to the DSC Prize for South Asian Literature, 2018 -- one of the most prestigious international literary awards. Chinatown Days is the translation of Assamese novel Makam which was written by Chowdhury herself. It deals with people of Chinese-origin who a re residing in Assam. This year, the longlist includes works of 11 Indian writers and represents the best of South Asian fiction writing. The longlist features six women authors and three women translators, and two outstanding debut novels that find place alongside the works of several established writers.

It includes submissions from a diverse mix of publishers and authors of different backgrounds writing on a wide range of issues and themes. n

Events

G PLUS | oct 20 - oct 26, 2018

Event: Ladies Night Date: October 10 Venue: Nyx Lounge and Deck

Event: Weekends at Underdoggs Date: October 17 Venue: Underdoggs

Event: Weekends at Retro Town Date: October 12 Venue: Retro Town

24 Catching Up

G PLUS | oct 20 - oct 26, 2018