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SC asks Centre to frame policy against foreign accused jumping bail

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New Delhi, Sep 3: The Supreme Court has asked the Centre to consider formulating an appropriate policy to prevent foreign nationals accused of crimes in India from absconding from the country.

The issue arose when a Nigerian national, accused in a high-profile criminal case, allegedly absconded to his home country after being granted bail by the Jharkhand High Court in May 2022. The top court, in December last year, had set aside the bail order, directing the authorities to ensure the accused is brought back to India to face trial.

At the same time, it underscored the need to do “something more..as these cases keep coming up and therefore, a proper set of guidelines has to be framed and distributed to all the Courts concerned so that such incidents do not happen in future.”

In the latest hearing, a Bench of Justices Dipankar Datta and Augustine George Masih was informed by Additional Solicitor General Raj Kumar Bhaskar Thakre, the law officer appearing on the Centre’s behalf, that extradition was unlikely due to the absence of a bilateral treaty with Nigeria.

The Union Ministry of External Affairs, in an email to the Solicitor General, said, “In the absence of a bilateral Extradition treaty between India and Nigeria, the Nigerian authorities are unlikely to extradite their own national.

” Having regard to the fact that there is no bilateral treaty between Nigeria and India, the apex court observed that continuing to pursue the matter would serve “no useful purpose”. Disposing of a Special Leave Petition (SLP) filed by the Jharkhand government, the Justice Datta-led Bench said, “The special leave petition stands disposed of, confirming the order of cancellation of bail but leaving it open to the Central Government to formulate an appropriate policy or initiate such further action as deemed necessary and proper so that foreign nationals do not flee the course of justice after committing crimes in India.”

IANS

Rahul Gandhi urges PM Modi to announce relief package for flood-hit states

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New Delhi, Sep 3: Amid devastating floods sweeping across northern India, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take immediate action and announce a Special Relief Package for the affected states, especially Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and J&K.

In a post on social media platform X, Gandhi called for urgent Central government intervention and relief for thousands of families battling the disaster. “Modi Ji, the floods in Punjab have caused devastating destruction.

The situation in Jammu-Kashmir, Himachal, and Uttarakhand is also extremely worrying,” he posted on X. “In such difficult times, your attention and the active help of the central government are extremely necessary. Thousands of families are struggling to save their homes, lives, and loved ones. I urge that an immediate announcement be made for a special relief package (Special Relief Package) for these states, especially for the farmers – and that relief and rescue operations be expedited,” he added.

He also shared a video message, appealing to the Prime Minister: “It is saddening to see people struggling to save their families and loved ones. Modi Ji, it is the responsibility of the government to safeguard people’s lives. I urge you to protect them and arrange a Special Relief Package as soon as possible.”

The situation on the ground remains grim. Heavy rainfall and cloudbursts have triggered flash floods in multiple northern states. In Punjab, 29 people have reportedly died and thousands have been displaced in what officials are calling the worst flood in recent history.

Entire villages are submerged, and the state machinery is under tremendous pressure to rescue marooned residents. In Jammu and Kashmir and Uttarakhand, flash floods and landslides have claimed lives and caused widespread destruction, while many people are still missing. Himachal Pradesh has also reported collapsed roads, snapped power lines, and significant damage to infrastructure.

IANS

BJP leaders to interact with Bengali-speaking migrant workers during festivities

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Kolkata, Sep 3: Several top BJP leaders will tour different states in the country during the forthcoming festive season starting from Durga Puja, and hold interactions with Bengali-speaking migrant workers there.

This is aimed at building a counter-narrative to Trinamool Congress’s allegations of harassment of Bengali-speaking migrants in other states, and presenting factual data with first-hand information collected from them, confirmed a state committee leader of the BJP.

Initially, it was decided that a team of 27 top leaders of the BJP in West Bengal, including some elected party MPs and MLAs, would visit different states during the festive season and interact with Bengali-speaking migrant workers from West Bengal currently settled there for their livelihood.

“The number of team representatives might be increased slightly if necessity arises,” said the party’s state committee member. It is learnt that during the course of interaction with Bengali-speaking migrant workers in other states, the state BJP leaders going from West Bengal will ask them certain questions.

The state committee leader said that the questions to be posed to migrant workers are: – What prompted them to take up jobs or contractual appointments in other states and get themselves far away from their family members and friends? – Whether these Bengal-speaking migrant workers feel that any entity, state-run or private, operating in West Bengal, could match the earnings or wages that they are receiving in other states? – What is the tentative difference in the payment they are receiving in other states from the maximum they could expect to receive in West Bengal? The final question would be whether they had even faced any discrimination at their respective workplaces because of the language they spoke, and even from the local administration after they could duly establish their Indian identities.

On Monday, a motion was moved in the West Bengal Assembly on the first day of the Special Session of the House, to discuss the alleged harassment of Bengali-speaking migrant workers in different “BJP-ruled” states in the country.

IANS

China unveils new weapons at WW2 victory parade; Xi calls for ‘global peace’

Beijing, Sep 3: In a historic first, China on Wednesday publicly unveiled some of its most advanced military technology, including hypersonic missiles, electronic warfare systems, and unmanned combat platforms, during a massive military parade in central Beijing.

The event, marking the 80th anniversary of China’s victory in World War II, also featured a strong message of peace and international cooperation from President Xi Jinping, even as global tensions remain high.

Held in Tian’anmen Square, the parade featured some of China’s most advanced weaponry, including hypersonic missiles, directed-energy systems, electronic warfare equipment, and unmanned intelligence platforms, many showcased publicly for the first time.

More than 10,000 military personnel, over 100 aircraft, and hundreds of tanks and armoured vehicles participated in the event. The parade was overseen by President Xi Jinping, who also serves as the General Secretary of the Communist Party and Chairman of the Central Military Commission.

In his keynote speech, Xi highlighted the historical significance of the victory, calling it “China’s first complete triumph against foreign aggression in modern times”. “The Chinese people made a major contribution to the salvation of human civilisation and the defence of world peace,” Xi said, urging nations to “eliminate the root causes of war” and prevent the repetition of historical tragedies.

Xi was joined on the Tian’anmen Rostrum by over two dozen world leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, and dignitaries from Iran, Malaysia, Pakistan, Nepal, Maldives, Myanmar, Indonesia, Mongolia, Zimbabwe, and Central Asian countries.

This was only the second time since 2015 that China has held such a large-scale military parade to mark Victory Day. Towering installations resembling the Great Wall stood in the square, symbolising Chinese resilience during wartime.

Helicopters flew banners reading “Justice Prevails”, “Peace Prevails”, and “The People Prevail” as troops marched in precision formations. Spectators and veterans witnessed 80 commemorative banners honouring historic military units from the war.

China’s resistance, which began in 1931, was the earliest and one of the longest among Allied nations, with the country tying down more than half of Japan’s overseas forces and suffering 35 million casualties, roughly a third of total global losses in WWII.

Representatives from countries that supported China during the war, including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Russia, and Canada, were also invited. For the first time, Chinese peacekeepers, who served under the United Nations, were included in the formations, reflecting China’s growing global defence posture.

A soldier who had served in the Democratic Republic of the Congo said, “We have the capability to defend the peace forged with the blood of our forefathers.” Xi also emphasised that the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) must provide strategic support for China’s rejuvenation and modernisation, in line with the nation’s long-term goal to become a fully modern socialist country by 2035.

“Eighty years ago, we were revived. Eighty years later, we are thriving with even greater vitality,” said Lyu Shouye, a graduate student and spectator at the event.

IANS

NMC sanctions 50 MBBS seats for Shillong Medical College

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By Our Reporter

SHILLONG, Sep 2: The National Medical Commission (NMC) has sanctioned 50 MBBS seats for Shillong Medical College and Hospital (SMCH) for the 2025–26 academic year, marking an important step for Meghalaya’s medical education sector.
With this, SMCH has joined the list of 21 institutions across 13 states that have been allotted seats by the NMC.
Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh confirmed the development on Tuesday, noting that the approval represents a major achievement for the state.
Earlier this year, the government had set up the Shillong Medical College Council to oversee academic and administrative matters.
Headed by the Dean and comprising 14 members, the Council is tasked with formulating academic policies, ensuring compliance with NMC regulations, monitoring the quality of teaching, clinical training, and research, and recommending faculty development initiatives. It will also review departmental activities, encourage inter-departmental collaboration, and provide guidance on infrastructure and staffing needs.
Alongside this, a Fees Committee has been created under the Health and Family Welfare Department to regulate the fees for students admitted to medical and nursing courses in government institutions.
Several other committees have also been notified for the new college. The Anti-Ragging Committee, chaired by the Dean, will work to prevent and act on incidents of ragging within the campus and hostels. The Gender Harassment Committee, led by the Head of the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, will address complaints of gender-based harassment. Additionally, a Pharmacovigilance Committee has been formed to monitor the safe use of medicines.
The approval of seats, coupled with these institutional mechanisms, has laid the foundation for Shillong Medical College to begin functioning in line with national standards.

Govt invested Rs 23 cr, earned Rs 133 cr from festivals: Paul

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By Our Reporter

SHILLONG, Sep 2: The Meghalaya government’s investment in festivals and cultural events during 2024 brought in a substantial return of Rs 133.42 crore against an expenditure of Rs 23.50 crore, Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh said on Tuesday after unveiling the state’s Autumn Calendar 2025.
He stated that the government supported a series of events last year, including the Me’Gong Festival, the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival, and the Shillong Literary Festival.
He explained that the combined outlay of Rs 23.50 crore generated an impressive return, underlining the role of tourism in driving local revenues.
Lyngdoh pointed out that the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival alone delivered strong results in 2024. An investment of Rs 5 crore by the government resulted in an economic stimulus of Rs 59.98 crore.
He added that the tentative budget for the 2025 edition has been fixed at Rs 4 crore.
Providing details of this year’s plan, Lyngdoh said that the festival would be hosted at the JN Stadium in Shillong on November 14 and 15.
The approach road to Polo Ground will be pedestrianised for the duration of the festival, with stalls and displays lining the stretch to create a walk-in experience for visitors.
He said the intention is to provide a different atmosphere compared to past editions and to enhance the overall visitor experience.
The announcement formed part of the broader Autumn Calendar 2025, which highlights the state’s major upcoming cultural and tourism events aimed at consolidating Meghalaya’s reputation as a festival destination.
Lyngdoh further said that this year’s festival season has been structured under the Autumn Calendar 2025 as part of continued efforts to elevate tourism as a major sector.
The Autumn Calendar includes the Mega Kayak Festival from October 14 to 18, the Seventh Hour 4×4 Off-Road Challenge from October 23 to 25, the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival on November 14 and 15, the Shillong Literary Festival from November 20 to 22, the Me’Gong Festival on November 28 and 29, and the Winter Tales festival from December 11 to 13.
Lyngdoh said the government views these festivals as strategic investments that generate significant economic benefits. He added that local artists have gained from initiatives such as the Chief Minister’s Youth Mentorship Programme, which has already provided a platform to over 7,000 performers, some of whom are now preparing for shows in Singapore.
The minister highlighted long-term infrastructure plans, including two five-star hotels coming up in Umiam and two in Sohra. Other projects include a rain museum in Mawsynram and the Mawmluh experiential cave, aimed at diversifying tourist experiences. Lyngdoh pointed out that Sohra has more than 500 homestays that are directly supporting local families.
He emphasised that festivals should not be seen as expenses but as investments that attract visitors, boost the local economy, and create resources to support other essential sectors.

Govt asks Dorbars to step up fight against drug trafficking

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By Our Reporter

SHILLONG, Sep 2: Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh on Tuesday called upon local Dorbar Shnongs to step up efforts against drug trafficking by setting up Village Defence Parties (VDPs) in their respective localities.
Lyngdoh said the state government recently revised the honorarium for VDP members, increasing the yearly incentive from Rs 800 to Rs 3,000. He said the members would not be expected to patrol streets round the clock but provide intelligence and leads to the police.
He expressed disappointment that Shillong, with a population of more than six lakh, currently has only 11 VDPs. “We had a well-attended meeting at the NEC building in Nongrim Hills with the representatives of major Dorbar Shnongs. I appealed to them to make use of the VDP scheme, which is a recognised legal entity working in coordination with the police and offering legal coverage and protection,” Lyngdoh said.
He added that the fight against narcotics is a joint responsibility, saying, “This is not government versus people, but government and people together.”
On enforcement, Lyngdoh said six repeat offenders have been booked under the PITNDPS Act and detained for a year, with the period extendable in case of further violations.
He highlighted the government’s support to enforcement agencies, noting that the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) personnel and volunteers had received cash incentives, including Rs 10,000 per volunteer, for the first time.
The Minister underlined that policing must remain in the hands of trained authorities, cautioning against vigilante-style activism.
“The ANTF is now a dedicated police unit led by an SP, with its own vehicles and trained staff. They are active daily in areas like Iewduh and cantonment, which were not covered earlier,” he said.
He cautioned that vigilante-style activism is not only illegal but that, it also weakens the government’s efforts to tackle the menace of drug trafficking.
Recently, a video, showing a group of drug addicts being beaten up in a corner, went viral on social media.
The Minister said, “It is illegal and dangerous for untrained individuals to confront suspected peddlers directly, as they risk exposure to contaminated syringes and other hazards”.
“You cannot tackle drugs by going on this vigilantism because, for instance, when you seize drugs from somebody, they are now under your possession and you may be accused,” he added.

Son cries foul over sacking of father in NGH, moves MHRC

From Our Correspondent

TURA, Sep 2: A resident of Khaldang Songma under Resubelpara in North Garo Hills has written to the Chairperson of the Meghalaya Human Rights Commission, Justice T Vaiphel seeking his intervention into the alleged unfair termination of a handicapped schoolteacher.
According to the complainant-Tatu R Marak, the services of his father, Kiljon Sangma was abruptly terminated by the school headmaster and the concerned SDSEO. Marak had worked as a teacher at the Khaldang Upper Primary School.
Claiming that the abrupt termination of his father’s service was illegal, the complainant sought an investigation into the matter to ensure Justice for his father as well as financial compensation.

Outgoing CJ lauds etiquette of state’s Bar

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By Our Reporter

SHILLONG, Sep 2: The outgoing Chief Justice of the High Court of Meghalaya, Justice IP Mukherjee, has lauded the remarkable etiquette of the Bar in the state.
Speaking at his farewell programme organised by the Shillong Bar Association recently, Justice Mukherjee remarked that if one were to write a book on courtroom etiquette, it should be based on what he witnessed in Meghalaya. He observed that unlike in other High Courts, where lawyers are often seen wrangling and shouting, advocates in Shillong maintain silence, dignity, and grace. Even when they disagree with a judgment, he noted, they prefer to pursue proper legal remedies rather than resort to disruption.
“This is something which I described as the true hallmark of a cultured Bar,” said Justice Mukherjee, who will retire on September 5.
The outgoing Chief Justice also admired the high level of learning among the lawyers, pointing out that many are able to cite Supreme Court judgments delivered just weeks earlier. While urging them to keep this spirit alive, he appealed for fewer adjournments and quicker disposal of cases, reminding that delays only add to litigation.
Reflecting on his visits to Europe and America, Justice Mukherjee said the High Court of Meghalaya is comparable in terms of dignity and infrastructure. However, he also noted that unlike India, where a backlog of one lakh cases is common, such figures would shock courts abroad.
Justice Mukherjee further praised the majestic High Court building, its competent staff and officers, and recalled a conversation with Chief Minister Conrad Sangma in which he suggested transferring more cases to the court to help reduce pendency nationwide.
He also stressed the need for stronger infrastructure in Shillong, particularly a larger airport capable of handling bigger aircraft, which he said would boost connectivity, trade, and economic growth.
Finally, Justice Mukherjee described Meghalaya as a “nation within a nation”—unique in its culture, traditions, and climate, which he said is not only congenial for living but also for the smooth functioning of the judiciary.
In their address, the two judges of the High Court of Meghalaya, Justice Hamarsing Thangkhiew and Justice Wanlura Diengdoh, also praised the outgoing Chief Justice.

India, Thai troops begin joint exercise ‘Maitree’ in Umroi

From Our Correspondent

NONGPOH, Sep 2: The 14th edition of India-Thailand joint military exercise ‘MAITREE-XIV’ commenced with a grand opening ceremony at Joint Training Node (JTN), Umroi, on Tuesday. The exercise will run till September 14. The bilateral exercise is part of the ongoing military-to-military exchange programme between the two countries and aims to enhance cooperation, interoperability and mutual understanding between the Indian Army and Royal Thai Army.
The 13th edition of the exercise was held at Fort Vachiraprakan in Tak Province, Thailand.
The Indian Army contingent, comprising 120 personnel, is being represented by a Battalion of the Madras Regiment. The Royal Thai Army contingent comprising 53 personnel is represented by the 1st Infantry Battalion, 14th Infantry Brigade.
The joint exercise will focus on company-level counter-terrorist operations in semi-urban terrain under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.
The fortnight-long programme includes tactical drills, joint planning, special arms skills, physical fitness and raiding operations.
The exercise will culminate with a 48-hour validation exercise, simulating realistic operational scenarios.
Exercise ‘MAITREE’, instituted in 2006, is one of the important joint training exercises between India and Thailand.
The current edition further reinforces the bilateral defence cooperation and reflects the shared commitment of both Armies towards peace, stability and security in the region.