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Volume 08 | Issue 28 May 08 - May 14 , 2021 Price `10

34 newly elected MLAs of Assam have Three wards identified as COVID-19 In the face of the COVID-19 challenge serious criminal records hotspot in Guwahati

INSIDE PG 03 PG 04 PG 08 Amid COVID Five days and struggles in waiting, politics Assam denial of insurance over CM chair claims add to continues in Assam

G Plus News secured 75 seats while Congress “It is clear that either of the PG No @guwahatiplus and its allies bagged 50 in the two (Sonowal or Sarma) would be elections to the 126-member the next chief minister. I appeal woes - 02 Assam legislative assembly. The to all BJP legislators and workers inning elections counting took place on Sunday, to remain calm till a decision was easier for the May 2. is reached,” BJP state president leading partner of the A BJP state executive member Ranjeet Kumar Dass told reporters National Democratic on Tuesday. Alliance (NDA) the Sarma, whom the local media BharatiyaW Janata Party (BJP) than called ‘super CM’ in the last choosing the next leader of the cabinet because he held multiple government in Assam, which is portfolios, is a strong contender turning into a litmus test for the for the post. As the convener of the party. The central leadership of BJP-led North-East Democratic the party and its leaders here Alliance (NEDA), a coalition of in the state are still undecided non-Congress parties, Sarma on should they continue with wields influence across the region. incumbent Chief Minister A BJP leader who is a cabinet Sarbananda Sonowal as head of minister talking to G Plus said, the government or pick Himanta “Everything depends on the Biswa Sarma for the post. This party high command, but I feel said, the Congress has kept its Sonowalji will become the chief doors open to form a coalition minister as he is respected by all with BJP allies in Assam to form a party members and he is close to government. Narendra Modiji.” Congress leader Debabrata talking to G Sonowal has his roots in Saikia told to media said that Plus said on regional politics. He is regarded the Congress is ready to support condition of anonymity that the as a ‘Jatiya Nayak’ (state hero of anyone to form a non-BJP high command is confused as Assam), for his petition on the government in Assam. He said Himanta Biswa Sarma who is basis of which the Supreme Court As cases surge that if someone wants to form a credited for the victory of BJP had struck down the controversial non-BJP government in Assam, Assam is not openly seeking the Illegal Migrants (Determination they will get Congress’ support. CM’s post but that the latter will by Tribunals) Act, 1983 or IMDT Like Shiv Sena broke alliance neither accept any ministerial Act, on July 12, 2005. in Assam, with BJP in Maharashtra and berth nor the post of deputy chief Many BJP MLAs are thronging formed government by allying minister if offered by the party’s the house of Sarma and Sonowal with Congress and NCP, the Asom top leadership in New Delhi. and with the prevailing situation Gana Parishad (AGP) as a regional On the other hand, it is the rift in Assam BJP is visible. government mulls party of Assam might get such well known that the national The pressure on the high chance if the BJP high command leadership in Delhi have their command to control the situation does not take a decision on who confidence on Sonowal and want without increasing the rift looks would be the Chief Minister soon him to work as the chief minister inevitable. Fact remains that complete lockdown as five days have already past and for the second term. Sonowal is politics over the chief minister’s the BJP high command is yet to also known to be very close to chair continues in Assam or call make a decision. Narendra Modi which may work it the musical chair between the Full Story on PG No. 07 The BJP-led National in his favour to help him retain Sonowal and those in the Sarma Democratic Alliance (NDA) his throne in Dispur. camp. 2 Lead Story | May 08 - May 14 , 2021 Amid COVID struggles in Assam denial of insurance claims add to woes

While the incumbent Finance has admitted, administered G Plus News Minister of the state Himanta some medicines, the insurer @guwahatiplus Biswa Sarma who incidentally cannot turn around and is also the Health Minister has say I will not honour the not spoken on the recent reports claim.” Referring to a patient s if the pandemic is regarding insurance claims whose claim was rejected not enough for people problems, but the fact that is by company on the pretext to worry, now getting aware of the problem surely does that the treatment could be medical treatment bills not need any guesses. The writer done at home, Jolly had this settled have become the of the news report sent him a tweet to say - “Today the insurer is latestA headache, as most people explaining the problems people telling me whether I needed have one complaint, that is have been facing, but so far he not hospitalisation or not. I am insurance companies are refusing responded. Given that Sarma is sorry that is not their job.” to settle their claims made against one of the most active ministers In the same programme, treatment for COVID-19. The and shall we say personalities in Amit Chhabra of the city of Guwahati is flooded with the state on Twitter, constantly Policybaazar.com pointed to such stories besides the denial of posting how much the state is the fact that the insurance cashless claims by most hospitals. prepared to tackle the crisis and policies are “strictly regulated In what would seem as a what facilities are available and by IRDAI and claims cannot Representative Image complete violation of the rules what has been done, one expects be rejected by the whims set by the Insurance Regulatory a response at the least. and fancies of anybody. Not tweeted saying, “Reports are to process claims and provide Development Authority of India But on the ground the situation the companies and not even being received of some hospitals cashless facilities to the insurer. (IRDAI) to ensure that the insured has been rather disturbing, with the hospitals.” Where a claim is denying cashless insurance. Once a person gets hospitalised persons are not harassed and their many people upset that they rejected it has to go through a Spoken to Chairman, IRDAI Shri the TPA needs to be informed. demands are met transparently have been denied their basic very high level committee and a SC Khuntia to act immediately. The IRDAI has meanwhile by the insurance companies, now right to treatment using a means junior employee cannot just reject In March’20 #Covid included as cautioned insurers for not being hospitals are refusing to take of financial transaction which it, Chhabra informed, adding that a part of comprehensive health transparent while deciding on patients who want to pay through is perfectly legitimate and has as per IRDAI directives “All COVID insurance. Cashless available at claims of policyholders. In a their cashless insurance facilities. to be accepted by the hospitals claims have to be settled within networked or even temporary circular issued recently Life, Just today, and coincidentally and the insurance companies. one hour of receipt of documents hospitals.” General and Standalone Health members of the news media in What is even more strange, many by the company.” The Union Finance Minister Insurance Companies as well Guwahati had a real struggle to people who have made claims Many people have cited cases had also said that the IRDAI had as TPAs the IRDAI said “Insurer get their relatives admitted to for reimbursement have been relating to the HDFC ERGO, assured that it would prioritise shall ensure that the repudiation hospitals owing to refusal by the told by insurance companies Ericson Insurance who for the settlement of COVID claims. of the claim is not based on latter to treat the patients against that they should have contacted example have cited hyper tension But if we were do a reality presumptions and conjectures.” cashless insurance cover. the insurers for advice before as a reason for not paying a 65 year check, and especially where Meanwhile, those who have Ironically, some hospitals are hospitalisation. old patient and the other saying smaller states like Assam is been involved in working in the acting at the behest of insurance Once the doctor has decided you could have done this at home. concerned it appears that many insurance sector said that even companies and denying people that a patient has to be treated Union Finance Minister hospitals apart from the regular if claims are rejected, it does not the right to affordable treatment and admitted in the hospital, the Nirmala Sitharaman had recently ones do not have TPA (Third Party mean that the process cannot be by using the cashless insurance insurer is dutybound to settle the directed the chairman of IRDAI, Administrator) and this is a major settled and in the interest of the process. The hospitals that these claim. Sachit Jolly of the Partner S C Kunthia to “act immediately” problem. The role of the TPA is policyholder. Those whose claims media persons approached were DMD Advocates said in an NDTV and ensure that there is no that of an intermediary between are not entertained or denied have told that they would “only accept programme on medical insurance denial of cashless claims by the insurer and the policyholder. to approach the IRDAI through cash for COVID treatment.” on May 6, that “Once the doctor insurance companies. She had The IRDAI has authorised the TPA various channels. Vaccine availability hindered with mismanagement

G Plus News 61,377 tests that were conducted manage the chaos that My mother didn’t receive any @guwahatiplus in the state. Therefore, the active presided at the Ulubari message or reference no post COVID-19 cases in the state of Health Centre. As per vaccine that’s the reason I am not Assam went up to 31,829. sources close to G Plus, able to schedule online,” said a uwahati: The National However, many residents the healthcare officials resident. Health Mission (NHM) of Guwahati city are claiming were not apprised as data shows that a total that they have been denied to how to prioritise The issue of digital of 28,32,173 people have vaccinations due to a shortage of between people in line literacy been vaccinated as of vaccines by hospitals and health or the once who have GMay 6. Out of these, 22,09,282 care institutions, even after taken appointment. “I don’t understand how to have taken the first dose, 6,22,891 careful registration for the same. As per the claims of register via apps or websites. The have taken the second dose. locals in Ulubari Health only way for us to get the vaccine The total vaccine availability Availability is the key centre had put a blank is to wait at the vaccine centres,” is 3,82,670 after a lakh doses of concern appointment has been really page where people will come and said Dhanjit Das, a resident of Covishield vaccine arrived on small. write their name, starting from Satgaon. Many with lack of access Friday, May 7 for people of 45 Although vaccine drive has “It feels like the Tatkal service serial no. 1..2...and so on. This in Guwahati as well in Assam years+. been setup across the state from of the IRCTC,” a resident of Lachit has affected the elderly people are finding it difficult to register This was informed by the Dhubri to Sadiya, however getting Nagar told G Plus. “I was glued to as they have to stand in queue owing to their inability to use Assam Health Minister Himanta an appointment has been the my screen for two days to get an from morning till the vaccination digital platform on phones. This Biswa Sarma on Twitter. issue. appointment,” said Raahi Deka, a centre opens at around 9 30 AM. risks the economically weaker This news comes amidst To get the vaccine, one has to student from Hengrabari. Along with that there has been section of the population who the increasing trend in daily register in the COWIN app and get In Ulubari, designated persons a violation of COVID-19 safety lack accessibility to smartphones COVID-19 cases in the state. As an appointment. The first issue who got the appointment for protocols where people have not and the knowledge of using them. many as 4,936 COVID-19 cases has been the problem of getting the vaccine had a tussle with maintained the adequate distance Meanwhile, many from the with a daily positivity rate of an appointment. Registrations people who were waiting since required for social distancing. city are trying to locate a vaccine 8.04% were reported in Assam have happened smoothly but early morning for the jab. The “The online registration is centre at the outskirts due to the as of Thursday, May 6 out of the the window for getting an healthcare authorities failed to going on but no specific rules. lack of availability. | May 08 - May 14 , 2021 In The News 3 34 newly elected MLAs of Assam have serious criminal records

Trishna Das have either committed crimes against women, etc. themselves. Other parties @trishnadas56 against women or have tried “Out of the 34 winning such as the Asom Gana murdering someone at least once candidates, at least 28 (22%) Parishad (AGP) and the in their lifetime until being elected winning candidates have declared United Peoples’ Party, ssam Elections are over to become a public representative. serious criminal cases including Liberal (UPPL) have 1 and the results are out The people of Assam have cases related to murder, attempt winning candidate each and newly-elected MLAs elected at least 34 MLAs who to murder, crimes against women, declaring serious criminal are in waiting to take have criminal cases registered etc,” stated the ADR report cases against themselves, oath as legislators and against them at various police released on May 5, 2021. according to the affidavits makeA up the Legislative Assembly. stations. After ADR reviewed the One among the 34 newly elected filed for the Assembly All that is fine, but what must self-sworn affidavits of all the 126 MLAs has declared cases related elections this year. not be lost sight of is the fact winning candidates, it found that to murder under IPC Section Meanwhile, Assam has that many of the newly-elected 27 percent of winning candidates 302 against himself. Five of the witnessed a constant rise in MLAs may have a background of the Assam Assembly Elections winning candidates of assembly the number of MLAs with a that needs to be pondered upon, have committed a crime in the elections have cases of attempt criminal background. especially where criminal records past against the 11 percent last to murder under IPC Section - 307 are concerned. time. registered against themselves, Thus, when we do a background Moreover, the number of MLAs while two others have declared Serious criminal cases fall under the following check on the politicians who are with criminal records against cases related to crimes against criteria - soon going to hold positions of them has doubled since the 2016 women, which comes under ›› Offence for which punishment is of 5 years or more power, we may not have much Assembly elections. In 2016, 14 serious criminal offenses. to write about and instead could MLAs declared criminal cases Major political parties had ›› If an offence is non-bailable be disappointed to know that 34 against themselves. fielded candidates with criminal ›› If it is an electoral offence (for eg. IPC 171E or bribery) of the newly-elected MLAs in Winning Candidates backgrounds in the assembly the state of Assam have criminal elections. 7 out of the 60 winning ›› Offence related to loss of exchequer records against them. with Serious Criminal candidates from the Bharatiya ›› Offences that are assault, murder, kidnap, rape-related This data, revealed by the Cases Janata Party (BJP), 10 out of 29 Association for Democratic winning candidates from the ›› Offences that are mentioned in the Representation of the Reforms (ADR), points to the 28 of the 34 winning candidates Indian National Congress (INC), 8 fact that people in the state are with criminal records have out of the 16 winning candidates People Act (Section 8) either unaware of the candidates’ declared serious charges leveled from the All India United ›› Offences under Prevention of Corruption Act criminal records or are willing to against them related to murder, Democratic Front (AIUDF) have give chance to the politicians who attempt to murder, and crimes serious criminal cases against ›› Crimes against women 200 above test COVID-19 positive in two tea gardens of Assam

uwahati: Over 200 workers and take stock of the situation. The district staff members from at least administration has also shut down two different tea gardens in markets nearby as a precautionary Assam’s Dibrugarh district have measure. tested positive for COVID-19 The Deputy Commissioner of Gin the past few days, forcing the Dibrugarh Pallav Gopal Jha has asked district administration to declare it a officials across the district to close containment zone. markets in their areas if the situation “Over 150 people are positive at Zaloni deteriorates further. tea estate and 60 positive cases have “A vaccination drive would be carried been found in Mayajan tea estate,” said a out in the garden from today apart government source. from other measures like sanitization, The Zaloni tea estate has been etc.,” said Nabajyoti Gogoi, the District completely shut down. Top medical Surveillance Officer of IDSP (Integrated officials have been sent to the area to Disease Surveillance Programme). 4 City | May 08 - May 14 , 2021 Three wards identified as COVID-19 hotspot in Guwahati

G Plus News of Chandan Nagar road point to @guwahatiplus Tongora Satra Wooden Bridge. East: By the eastern side of Rukmini Bahini river from Tongora ssam has been struggling Wooden Bridge to NH 37 up to as the second wave of the Basistha Chariali, then by the Coronavirus pandemic eastern side NH 37 up to Basistha continues to spread Road, and then by the eastern across the state, with side of Basistha Road up to the KamrupA (Metro) district taking Southeastern extreme boundary most of the heat. Only recently, of Basistha village in the line of three wards in the capital city of Basistha Road. Assam, have been identified as South: From the above point COVID-19 hotspot. The Deputy along the northern and eastern side Commissioner of Kamrup (Metro) of the South and Western boundary Biswajit Pegu on Wednesday, May of Basistha Grant at Basistha 5 said that the areas that have more Hatigaon Road junction at NH 37. COVID-19 cases will be declared as West: By the western side of Containment Zones. On that basis, Hatigaon main road from NH the wards that have been declared 37 junction point to Bhetapara containment zones by the Kamrup Chariali, then by the eastern side (M) district administration are of Hatigaon Road from Bhetapara Ward no 28, 16, and 8. Chariali to Hatigaon Chariali Point. Speaking to the media, Deputy Ward no. 16 comprises Fatasil, Commissioner Pegu said that to Bhaskar Nagar, Barsapara and a part stop the further spread of COVID-19, of Dhirenpara areas of Guwahati. the administration has taken this The boundary of the containment Ward no 28 declared as containment zone | G Plus Photo decision. “Three wards have been zone is: identified as hotspots and more North: AK Dev Road from Ambari registered a massive spike in will remain open from 8 AM of valid medical documents. cases have been witnessed with Tiniali up to Marabharalu then up COVID cases amid the second wave to 12 PM. Shopkeepers and test positivity of COVID-19 crossing to Lokhra Road of the coronavirus pandemic. ›› Home delivery of essential customers shall have to more than 10 % in the last one week East: Eastern side of Marabharalu Any unauthorized entry and exit commodities including maintain social distancing, to in these wards. We are working on from Glass Factory via the northern to and from the above containment e-commerce will be allowed side of Cycle Factory Road to Zone is prohibited during the wear masks and hand gloves. it and meanwhile, we declare the up to 6 PM. wards as containment zones,” Pegu Lokhra Road up to Dhupalia Road containment period. However, the said. South: From Lokhra Road via following exemption is allowed Moreover, shop owners shall ›› Dealers of essential Reports reveal that the Dhupalia Road by lane no 2 up to inside the containment zones: ensure six feet distance among commodities will function up maximum number of COVID Marabharalu ›› All government/private customers and shall not allow more to 2 PM. cases have been registered from West: Marabharalu from offices, educational than 5 persons inside the shop. the following areas - Beltola, Dhupalia bye lane no 2 up to Ita Institutes, and business In addition, shop owners should ›› There will be no restriction Basistha, Fatasil Ambari, Barsapara, Bhata Road junction then up to AK compulsorily keep sanitizers and establishments other than in operating petrol Dhirenpara, Panjabari, Kumarpara, Dev Road then up to Ambari Tiniali hand wash in their shops. pumps, LPG dealerships, Ward no. 3 comprises Bhutnath, exempted categories will Machkhowa, Bhootnath, AT Road, ›› Medicine shops, veterinary manufacturing units of Khanapara, Ulubari, Hatigaon, Kumarpara, Machkhowa, and a part remain closed during the clinics, and animal feed essential commodities, Rehabari, Bilpara, Solapara, DGP of the Athgaon area. The boundary containment period. shops are being exempted Complex, Pandu, Narengi, Banda of the containment zone is: telecommunications, › from the restrictions. and Maligaon. North: From the central line of › There will be no restriction Internet services, Ward no. 28 covers parts of River Brahmaputra backside of on the movement of officials ›› Mobile vending for broadcasting and cable Barsajai, Basistha Grant, Maidan, Sonaram Field up to Kedar Road engaged in emergency and vegetables/fish and meat services, VT and IT-enabled Barmatari, and Hatigaon area. The East: Eastern side of Kedar essential services within the will be allowed in the services, warehouses, and boundary of the containment zone Road from the central line of River containment zone area. cold storages. is: Brahmaputra up to AT Road, then containment zone area. › North: By the northern side of up to Chabipool via the eastern side › Bank, insurance offices, and ›› People with medical Ajanta Path from Hatigaon Chariali of Sati Jaymati Road ATMs will function normally emergency purposes will be These restrictions should remain to Basistha Road junction point, South: Eastern side of Netaji in force until further notice. by maintaining COVID-19 allowed for movement in then by the western side of Basistha Subhash Road up to Fatasil. protocols. Violation of this order will attract Road up to Chandan Nagar Road Reportedly, Ward No 3, 8, 14, and outside the containment punishments under Disaster point, then by the northern side 16, 24, 28, 29, and 31 have also ›› Grocery/milk/fruits shops zone area on the production Management Act 2005. Weather report for the week

Guwahati SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI

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30°-19° C 32°18° C 32°18° C 33°19° C 33°20° C 32°20° C 32°20° C | May 08 - May 14 , 2021 In The News 5 BJP removes minority cell after poor show in elections

Muslim candidates. Five of them elections. victorious Congress candidate BJP’s success in the minority- Nibir Deka contested from western Assam, Although BJP had won no seats got 50.75 percent. In Baghbar, dominated areas. “We used to be @nibirdeka and one each from the Upper in the minority-dominated areas, the winning Congress candidate charged by locals in few areas Assam, central Assam, and the all eight constituencies showed garnered over 52 percent of the when we went to campaign,” hill districts. However, none of a marginal vote rise (as seen in votes. The BJP candidate got 2 said a minority worker of the he ruling Bharatiya Janata them won from the respective the chart). This was in sync with percent. BJP. Party (BJP) has decided to constituencies. the members who joined the Few minority leaders have dissolve the Assam unit G Plus spoke to BJP Minority party in high numbers before the even stated that the party would The Miya issue of the minority cell. The Morcha President Mukhtar Assam Assembly elections. have done well if the higher The political rhetoric of the decision comes in the Hussain, who claimed the BJP top brass has been on the Twake of no Muslim candidates of minority cell was not apprised lines of 65-35, which indicates SL No. LAC 2016 2021 the party managing to win a seat of the decision. “We did an “us vs them fight” with 35 in the recently concluded state comparatively better than the 1 Sonai 44236 52283 being minorities from East assembly elections. last polls in terms of vote share Bengal origin. Along with this, In a letter, a copy of which but there were many other 2 Lahorighat 25692 34732 the BJP had been critical against was shared with G Plus, the BJP factors too,” Hussain told G Plus. the emancipation of the East State President Ranjeet Kumar As per sources close to the 3 Rupahighat 15963 25739 Bengal minority communities, Dass stated the cell has been matter, the confidence of the BJP especially when the demands dissolved due to the lackluster in winning minority-dominated 4 Bilasipara West 14688 27054 for a “Char-Chapori” museum in performances in the minority- areas was still visible in parts 5 Jaleswar 11535 14053 the Sankardeva Kalakshetra were dominated areas in the Assam of lower Assam. “It was going made. Assembly Elections 2021 for an well until Hagrama Mohilary 6 Jania 6067 11408 BJP leader Himanta Biswa “uncertain time period.” In few joined the Congress Mahajot,” Sarma had even stated that there places, the party had received added a BJP minority leader. It 7 South Salmara 1954 8919 are two streams of Muslims - fewer votes than 20 of its booth has been seen that the joining indigenous and the ones from members. of the Bodoland Peoples’ Party 8 Baghbar 1418 3038 Bangladesh. Although, the claims The BJP-led alliance had a (BPF) with the Mahajot reduced have catered well to the people comfortable victory - winning the chances of the BJP in the Although the vote share has command didn’t play out the of Assam as they have voted 75 of the state’s 126 seats of minority-dominated areas. risen, the rise is minimal in narrative of “Mughal” politics back the BJP to power but the which the BJP won 60 seats. Meanwhile, the BJP Minority comparison with the winning in the name of otherizing the comments might have proven The party will be ruling without Morcha President Hussain has parties. In Jaleswar, the BJP “Miya” community. The BJP to be counter-productive to the a single Muslim candidate this even claimed that the vote share candidate secured only 9.38 minority leaders claim this has party in the campaign to win the term. The BJP had fielded eight has risen from the last Assembly percent of the votes while the been counter-productive to the minority seats. Kaziranga National Park closed due to COVID-19

he Kaziranga National second wave which has crippled Park (KNP) in Assam has the health system of the nation. been closed due to the Despite the prevailing worsening COVID-19 pandemic situation, around two situation in the state. The lakh tourists, including over 550 TUnion Ministry of Environment from foreign countries, visited and Forest on Monday, May the Kaziranga National Park 3 issued an order stating the and Tiger Reserve (KNP & TR) in closure of Assam’s Kaziranga Assam in the past six months till National Park for tourists until April 21, according to reports. further notice. Assam on Sunday, May 3, The decision of closing the recorded as many as 4,489 new Kaziranga National Park, a major positive cases of COVID and 29 tourist attraction in the state deaths while the active caseload was taken after reviewing the stood at 26,477. Over 55,939 tests COVID-19 situation amid the were conducted on the same day. J a n s y o g N . 3 6 / 2 1 6 City | May 08 - May 14 , 2021 No lessons learned, people openly flout COVID-19 norms in Guwahati

Trishna Das lives of others. Former Director @trishnadas56 General of Police (DGP) of Uttar Pradesh Vikram Singh has lashed out at violators from the Kumbh, ot a day goes by when to the some Christian priests in doctors and medical Kerala and to the Iftar shopping experts are not at Charminar in Hyderabad constantly reminding saying, such people should be people to be careful and persecuted under the Disaster Nfollow all COVID-19 appropriate management Act, 2005. “They behaviour. They are sending are endangering the lives of out clear warning and without others by their actions which is mincing words that if people a criminal act,” Singh had said, don’t learn how to protect while reacting to a news on how themselves, then they are not hundreds of devotees defied only endangering themselves Covid-safety norms and gathered but also others. in Gujarat’s Ahmedabad district However, even with the cases for a religious procession on May increasing every day and with 3. repeated appeals from medical In Guwahati, the scene is not experts and from the National too different. While there has not Health Mission (NHM) which been any religious gatherings is sending out reminders that but the way people are openly people need to take all forms of flouting the guidelines set by precautions, for many it appears the Assam State Disaster and to make no difference. A common Management Authority (ASDMA) sight that you get to almost would actually add up to make in every street of the city and many such gatherings. Many People roam around without wearing mask properly in Guwahati | G Plus Photo in smaller localities is people people can be seen roaming roaming around without masks, around maskless on the streets their lungs while breathing. So police taking it out on poor pandemic. or masks handing below their as well as in public places, it is necessary to cover your face people.” Another transmission is chin, crowding market places which is playing a huge factor while you sneeze or cough to The question here is not so through virus-stained surfaces and spitting everywhere. in the increasing number of prevent the virus from floating much about what happened and this can happen when a Thus it is no surprise when COVID cases in the city. This is into the air. during the elections and how the person touches surfaces with doctors say that “just blaming happening mainly because of The World Health police reacted. The situation that the aerosol particles or droplets the government will not help.” lack of complete awareness about Organisation (WHO) has shared confronts everyone demands of someone who has the virus. Visibly upset with how people the deadly disease. Many are not COVID-19 appropriate behaviour that the police enforce the You may touch a countertop or have been responding to the aware of how COVID-19 spreads guidelines which says sneeze or guidelines strictly, especially if doorknob that’s contaminated government set guidelines, from one person to the other. cough into your elbows to stop people are violating. Beating up and then touch your nose, mouth, medics warn that this could spell A resident of Zoo Road, the spread of the disease. While violators may not help, but there or eyes. It has been said that the disaster. With the Coronavirus Bishwarupa Singh said that most families are already used to must be strong action taken COVID virus can live on plastic moving eastwards and the despite her effort to make some doing things like washing their which will send out messages and stainless steel surfaces for numbers on the rise in Bengal people understand the necessity hands well and often, wearing to the rest that any form of over two days. People should and in Assam, there can only of wearing a mask in this grave masks near people, social violations will not be overlooked. clean and disinfect all counters, be one theory that we need to situation when people are dying distancing, there’s still much to Meanwhile, a resident of knobs, and other surfaces which believe, that is a third wave is due to COVID infections, they learn about this new disease. Ghoramara, Lakhyajit Bharali are frequently touched several eminent. are carefree and ignorant about Talking to G Plus Additional said, “I wear my mask every time times a day. “We can still control the rise what’s happening around them. DCP of West Guwahati Numal I step outside my house. But I see Reportedly, the virus mostly in the Covid numbers to a great “There’s still much to learn about Mahatta said, “People have people violating COVID norms in spreads through people who extent only if we learn to behave this new disease. But since people to be aware. Many people are the public. Some people even get have COVID symptoms. and follow the instructions. But are now getting vaccinated, it now wearing masks. We have involved in fights and arguments However, asymptomatic people no, people seem not to be too is even more important to wear conducted COVID awareness with the police if told to wear can also pass it on without affected which is an irony as a mask to avoid any infection. campaigns for the public. Some their masks. But people should showing any signs. Some people because of such attitudes others Wearing masks has proved that it are following the guidelines understand that it’s not a joke. despite having COVID don’t show are suffering,” said Doctor Hitesh can stop the spread of COVID-19. properly and those who have Life is at stake and we all should symptoms of the virus, which is Baruah, Managing Director and So we must all continue to follow been caught violating them follow the rules.” called asymptomatic spread, but Chief Executive Officer of the the COVID guidelines to not only are being fined. I think it’s high Moreover, according to the they act as a carrier of the disease Nemcare Hospitals in Guwahati. keep ourselves safe but to curb time the authorities should latest reports, the virus can that can destroy the lungs of a Such concerns is being the further spread of the deadly announce a lockdown to curb the transmit through the air which person ultimately leading to his/ regularly echoed on television disease. COVID situation. Once there is a is called ‘Airborne transmission’. her death. and other news media by medical COVID can spread through lockdown, cases will decrease.” According to research the Assam has recorded over experts and those have been part aerosols. When a Coronavirus- The police have been caught COVID-19 virus can live in the 31,800 active cases and 4,936 of the government machinery infected person coughs, sneezes, on camera beating up people, air for up to 3 hours. It can get new cases of COVID infections as at different times. Director or speaks droplets or tiny which has come for criticism. into a person’s lungs if a COVID of May 6 with the highest death of the All Indian Institute of particles called aerosols can Many people reacted saying, infected person breathes out toll which stands at 46. This is Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Doctor travel into the air from their “this is not how the police should and another person breathes extremely serious, which is why Randeep Guleria has been nose or mouth which also carry react, they should explain to that air in. However, it is still people should take it seriously stating categorically that by not the virus along. And anyone the people.” Others said, “what unclear how often the virus and follow all the COVID norms following the COVID-19 protocols within 6 feet of the infected happened when election rallies spreads through the air and how directed by the government to people are endangering the person can inhale the virus into were happening, why are the much it contributes to the deadly curb the ongoing crisis. | May 08 - May 14 , 2021 Concern 7 As cases surge in Assam, government mulls complete lockdown Assam COVID-19 Update: Total cases, deaths and developments in the last 7 days

and other eateries can entertain Angita Mahanta dine-in guests only up to 2 PM. @guwahatiplus In view of the horrendous outbreak of the virus, the ith the worrisome state government has also surge in coronavirus taken measures to boost the cases in Assam, the number of COVID-dedicated state government has isolation wards to cater to been toying with the the daily incoming patients. ideaW of a complete lockdown in Only recently, the Northeast the state. Frontier Railway (NFR) has been In the last seven days, i.e asked to keep 150 covid care from April 30 to May 6, Assam coaches ready for deployment has reported as many as 27,761 at identified stations all over new COVID-19 cases, out of Assam as and when required by which 9,498 cases were reported them. Each cabin of the train from Guwahati (Kamrup Metro coach has been converted into an district) city alone. With this, independent isolation ward that the number of active cases in the can accommodate at least two state currently stands at 31,829. patients at a time. The second wave of The state government has also coronavirus has taken the lives decided to convert the Sarusajai of many in the past few days. A Stadium - also known as the total of 250 persons succumbed Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium to infections caused by the - into a make-shift hospital to Himanta Biswa Sarma visits Ulubari Cremation ground | File Photo dreaded virus in the last seven treat patients suffering from days of which 88 patients were COVID-19. from Kamrup Metro. With this, Additionally, 150 ICU beds have COVID-19 Cases Recorded in the Last 7 Days (April 30-May 6) the total number of COVID-19 been added in Gauhati Medical deaths in the state of Assam to College and Hospital (GMCH), New Cases Deaths In Patients New Cases Deaths In date has gone up to 1,531. Mahendra Mohan Choudhury Date Meanwhile, 18,786 patients in Hospital (MMCH), and Kalapahar In Assam Assam Discharged In Guwahati Guwahati total have been discharged from Covid Care Hospital in Guwahati. various hospitals across the This was informed by the state April 30 3197 26 2449 1184 8 state in the past seven days. Health Minister Himanta Biswa Although the Assam Sarma during a press conference May 1 3453 23 2229 1417 9 government has recently revised on April 26. Such an initiative can May 2 2385 30 2831 1099 12 the COVID-19 restrictions for help the state be well-prepared all districts which came into to meet any kind of medical May 3 4489 29 2534 1645 13 effect on Wednesday, May emergency or in the least put 5, banning the movement of people’s minds at ease. May 4 4475 41 2851 1417 15 individuals from 6 PM to 5 AM, The fear continues to strike, as the same hasn’t been taken into the principal scientific adviser May 5 4826 55 2916 1383 18 the cognitive spirit by some to the Centre,Lighter Professor K Vijayand faster members of the society. Raghavan on Wednesday, May 5, May 6 4936 46 2976 1353 13 “We do not get as many while addressing a briefing of the Total 27761 250 18786 9498 88 customers in the day time, the Union HealthScan Ministry the said that QR code rush hour only starts by 4 or 5 a phase three of the COVID-19 virus peaked in September first. Such a second wave government and health care in the evening. Night curfew for virus is inevitable. last year (2020) and eventually was expected although a facilities and demand an us entrepreneurs is as good as “It isGet inevitable, thegiven the Gstarted Plus declining towardapp the larger second wave with the effective plan for the future. a complete lockdown,” a store higher levels of circulating beginning of 2021. Later, just ferocity we are seeing now The way the new variants owner from Hatigaon told G Plus. virus but it is not clear on what when many people thought was not by anybody. And, of the virus are adapting to Following the new government time scale this phase three will that the nightmare was finally now scientists say there are a host’s immunity, people of mandate guidelines all shops, occur. We should prepare for going to end, the masses indications of a third wave. Assam should also be ready commercial establishments, and new waves,” informed K Vijay started getting infected again. These indications raise a to adapt and find a threshold offices shall shut down at 2 PM. Raghavan. In theory, a second wave lot of red flags in terms to come out of this dark Moreover, restaurants, dhabas, In India, the first wave of the is typically smaller than the of preparedness of the time.

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Get on board with us To advertise, Contact 8486002302 8 City | May 08 - May 14 , 2021 In the face of the COVID-19 challenge All restaurants, hotels to close from 2 PM Guwahati: In the context of the continuing surge of infections amid second wave of COVID-19 pandemic, the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) has declared that all restaurants should shut down by 2 PM, starting from May 5. All restaurants, dhabas, and other eateries in the state can entertain dine-in guests only up to 2 PM, daily. Restaurants operating within a hotel or resort can allow outside guests up to 2 PM as well. However, in-house guests of the hotel/ resort may be allowed to dine-in up to the usual time of operation. Moreover, takeaway including home delivery of food will be allowed till 6 PM after which only home delivery of food will be allowed. This new order shall remain in force until further orders.

Market places and shops to close at 2 PM Guwahati: As per the revised rules the ASDMA the timings of shutting down of all market places and shops will be 2 PM and night curfew shall be in place from 6 PM daily, following the steep increase in COVID-19 cases in the state. All shops and commercial establishments are to be shut down at 2 PM instead of 6 PM from tomorrow, i.e Wednesday, May 5 till further notice. Cold storages and warehouses may continue after 2 PM. However, sale counters, showrooms, etc. attached to these warehouses or cold storages shall not operate after 2 PM, every day. Although, delivery of essential goods through e-Commerce may continue with observance of COVID appropriate behavior. Moreover, essential and emergency services are to operate without any restrictions, such as pharmacies, hospitals, animal care centres, and veterinary clinics. | May 08 - May 14 , 2021 City 9 Government issues COVID-19 protocols for apartments and buildings Guwahati: The National Health Mission Implement cleaning and disinfection hurting/disrespecting the self-respect of (NHM) Assam has released several protocols measures at least three times a day such residents. Further, if any person is being appealing to the people living in apartments particularly for lift buttons, handrails in the asked for self-quarantine, the management and buildings to curb the COVID spike. staircases, gates, and grills, and all other such society may consider: Preventive measures to be followed: areas within the apartment. Visitors should Supporting the home-quarantined person in Visitors: All apartment societies shall be advised to avoid touching anything in the accessing daily necessities such as groceries, enforce a visitor’s protocol limiting access of common premises. medicines, etc. outside visitors to the apartment. All visitor Contactless delivery: Place delivery baskets Shall provide necessary psycho-social details, including travel history, will be at the security points to ensure contactless support while maintaining all infection recorded. delivery. Or the families should be asked to control protocols. Handwash/sanitizer: Every apartment pick up deliveries outside the gate after the entrance will have a designated necessary disinfection. handwashing area with handwashing Domestic help: Discuss COVID appropriate techniques clearly mentioned on a poster. behaviour and hygiene practices with your Sanitizers, if available, should also be placed domestic help, especially since they work at at the entrance. multiple locations. Common activities to shut down: Ensure Ensuring stricter implementation that all public gathering platforms be it of home quarantine: parks, swimming pools, fitness centres, If any resident has a travel history to common activity centres be closed, and COVID-affected places or is being advised no gathering of people allowed within the for self-quarantine, the management premises. committee shall ensure the same while Frequent cleaning of common premises: also maintaining confidentiality and not Ministry of Railways provides 21 isolation COVID-19 coaches at Guwahati and 20 at Silchar Guwahati: The Ministry of Railways COVID care with a bed-capacity of is taking rapid action to swiftly more than 4700 beds. The latest move Isolation Coaches to places of demand came from the State Govt of demand (made by respective states) Gujarat, wherein the Railways have mobilising workforce and material deployed 10 coaches for Sabarmati for this task. The Railways has and 6 coaches for Chandoliya. made available a fleet of more than Alongside, in terms of the demand by 4400 Isolation Coaches with around the State Govt of Nagaland Isolation 70,000 beds to serve as isolation Coaches, the Railway worked has units. positioned 10 Isolation coaches at In the latest update, with the latest Dimapur.5 Isolation Coaches having demands from Assam, Railway has 70 bed capacity with one coach for swiftly moved 21 isolation coaches medical personnel were deployed for to Guwahati and 20 Isolation Jabalpur and are now functional. 21 Coaches to Badarpur near Silchar Coaches are now made functional for in Assam (N. F. Railway). Earlier in the medical exigencies at Palghar by the week, isolation coaches were the railways in terms of the terms of deployed at Sabarmati, Chandlodiya agreement with district authorities. and Dimapur respectively. 2 sets of oxygen cylinders are also Accordingly, as per States’ demand, provided in these coaches to meet at present 298 coaches have been any exigency by the state health handed over to various states for authorities in many places. 10 G Talk | May 08 - May 14 , 2021

EDITORIAL Opinion Pandemic & education: what’s the solution? Leadership & governance: Bidhayak Das

hat at first seemed impossible. Need of the hour in Assam like a temporary, Special importance should be emergency precaution given to the rural areas of the quickly became a new state. Smart phones now are no hat at first seemed the help of a new government it normal, as students— more a luxury but a necessity like a temporary, would be impossible. evenW graduating seniors—were for education, therefore the emergency Special importance should be forced to finish the academic underprivileged class should be precaution quickly given to the rural areas of the year online. Now the educational provided with such technologies became a new state. Smart phones now are no institutes are grappling with how, by the government. Not only normal,W as students—even more a luxury but a necessity or even whether, they can safely that, the telecom giants should graduating seniors—were forced for education, therefore the re-open in the fall. be warned that without proper to finish the academic year underprivileged class should be For teachers, the shift to online service to the customers it would online. Now the educational provided with such technologies education has meant rethinking be difficult to do their businesses institutes are grappling with by the government. Not only lesson plans to fit a very different in Assam. The telecom services how, or even whether, they can that, the telecom giants should format. But as the educational like Vodafone or VI is providing safely re-open in the fall. be warned that without proper institutions, the authorities, pathetic service in the state, their For teachers, the shift to online service to the customers it would able to monitor all the institutes teachers, students and even services should be regulated by education has meant rethinking be difficult to do their businesses and even teachers making sure parents are working hard to the state government instead of lesson plans to fit a very different in Assam. The telecom services that the online classes are being cope up with the emergency, is depending on TRAI. Even BSNL is format. But as the educational like Vodafone or VI is providing taken efficiently. the government doing enough? performing very poorly. institutions, the authorities, pathetic service in the state, their A combination of synchronous Talking about Assam, the The state government has to teachers, students and even services should be regulated by and asynchronous methodologies pandemic has impacted the play a vital role in improving parents are working hard to cope the state government instead of using digital platforms and video- education system. the education scenario during up with the emergency, is the depending on TRAI. Even BSNL is assisted learning has made online Practices, which were pandemic and even if the government doing previously considered impossible educational institutes are closed, enough? Talking have now become possible due to education should not be stopped about Assam, the quick and concerted efforts from reaching the homes of the the pandemic by educationists who seized the students. The government school has impacted the opportunity to find new ways and college teachers should be education system. to make learning possible and trained accordingly. Innovative managing to keep children and Due to remote learning, students approaches and parents positively motivated and are now learning individually. distance learning engaged all through the year. This has led to increased instances solutions were As we look back at this turbulent of personalized learning allowing thought of and year (2020), it’s now time to look educators to customize and implemented forward and focus on the trends personalize learning based on the like never before. that will shape the future of needs of each student. The state Practices, which education. This pandemic has government should make sure were previously given the education sector a golden that the impact of pandemic on considered opportunity to pilot changes education should be positive. impossible have now that would have otherwise taken become possible due many more years to implement. to the quick and But without the help of a @guwahatiplus concerted efforts new government it would be by educationists who seized the opportunity to find Mama vs Dada debate new ways to make learning possible and managing performing very poorly. learning fun and collaborative for hile the debate on which party would form the government to keep children and parents The state government has to learners faced with challenging in Assam has ended with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)- positively motivated and engaged play a vital role in improving times and this trend is likely to led alliance winning by a clear majority, the “Mama vs Dada” all through the year. the education scenario during continue ruling in 2021. Due to debate has taken over. As we look back at this pandemic and even if the remote learning, students are The BJP leadership is in a quandary over the appointment turbulent year (2020), it’s now educational institutes are closed, now learning individually. This ofW the new chief minister of Assam, the only state where the party has time to look forward and focus education should not be stopped has led to increased instances of registered a convincing victory despite Congress Mahajot putting up on the trends that will shape from reaching the homes of the personalized learning allowing some semblance of a fight. the future of education. This students. The government school educators to customize and The incumbent chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal is seemingly pandemic has given the education and college teachers should be personalize learning based on facing a tough fight from the incumbent health and finance minister sector a golden opportunity to trained accordingly. Also, the the needs of each student. The Himanta Biswa Sarma in his efforts to get the top position. pilot changes that would have education minister (whoever state government should make Thus, the Mama vs Dada debate has taken centre stage in Assam, otherwise taken many more gets the chair after the new sure that the impact of pandemic becoming the most talked about topic (other than COVID-19, of course). years to implement. But without government is formed) should be on education should be positive. The other day, I overheard a group of colleagues weighing the two options that the BJP has. On the one hand is Sarbananda Sonowal who has maintained a squeaky clean image and is often associated with the narrative of corruption-free Assam. He also has a connection with Assamese sub- nationalism and his ‘Jatiya Nayak’ image (conferred upon him for the r Letter to the Editor legal battle against Illegal Migrants -Determination by Tribunals- Act) Worried over covid has definitely been a factor in garnering votes for the BJP. On the other hand is Himanta Biswa Sarma (or “mama” as most warriors people refer to him) who powered the BJP rule in Assam by establishing the party’s foothold in the state. Sarma’s bandwagon spread further as he went on to help BJP come to power in other states of the Northeast as well including Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur. While Sarbananda Sonowal has a good connection with the high I have a issue for you and your team, regarding the Government’s decision on the Health workers/ command, having served as a Union Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma is Covid warriors of Guwahati Medical College & Hospital (GMCH) to serve Corona duty with daily up) being vocally supported by many elected MLAs including those from down from work place to home and no quarantine after 7 days of rigorous medical duty. Karbi Anglong. So who among these two equally capable candidates shall be Requesting, to please take up the matter and being it to surface. What about the nurses (mother’s) appointed as the face of Assam? Well, assumptions are many but who are lactating and have child below 5 years. It is totally unjust and not at par. the Mama vs. Dada shall prevail until the BJP makes an official announcement regarding the chief minister of Assam. Mark Anthony One thing is for sure, Himanta Biswa Sarma for Assam BJP has emerged as the Sachin Tendulkar for Indian Cricket team – a force to reckon with. Nehal Jain @NehalJain96 | May 08 - May 14 , 2021 Op Ed 11 A man-made disaster?

he second wave of the COVID- 19 pandemic has led to an acute shortage of oxygen, which is failing to meet the medical needs of Tthe patients in India. Over the past couple of weeks, many breathless COVID-19 patients have lost their Gaurav Prakash Pathak lives due to the unavailability of medical oxygen in hospitals across India. A large number of SOS calls It isn’t just the political leaders, on Social media platforms have but India’s media must also take showed the severity of the oxygen responsibility for this crisis. shortage in the country. Reports The media by exaggerating the from the department of commerce government’s successes and a has showed that India had lack of accountability played a exported more than 9000 metric very ugly role in this current tonnes of oxygen across the world pandemic. They routinely glossed between March 2020 to January the failures of the government 2021. The Oxygen supplied could by disregarding the opinions and be used for both industrial as suggestions of all opposition. It well as medical use. However, it is is this weak-kneed media that true that the demand of oxygen in protected the governments from India was not as high as it is now, any kind of public scrutiny when as the demand for it doubled to they failed to offer any concrete 5000 metric tonnes per day during plans to tackle the crisis when it this second wave. initially hit us. At the moment, India is Not much have changed since producing a 7000 metric tonnes of last year. The Indian Premier oxygen per day, which is sufficient Representative Image League is back after its gap for now to meet the needs of the year in the Gulf. Among the patients, however, the uneven lit pyres, the IPL’s floodlights supply and logistical issues have signal showtime for the grand led to a crisis of medical oxygen in forward with their participation virus. Within a period of a year, no such shortage in the state. entertainment. Dedicated a number of states in the country. in a series of huge political rallies. the people ruling our country Moreover, Kumbh Mela, perhaps ambulances for the players, It is sad that a country that boasts Instead of making preparations presented us with a classic the largest riverside pilgrimage in COVID tests and oxygen on of being the “pharmacy to the for an impending second wave example of bad governance. At a the world, was allowed to be held demand, only the best will do for world” is falling so short of oxygen of COVID cases in an already time when the whole country is in Uttarakhand in the middle of the Great Indian Circus. There is supply in hospitals, which has impaired and weak health care scrambling to survive the COVID a pandemic, which also saw 99% a scent of grandeur in the air, made India the second worst hit system, the governments had crisis, there are political leaders of the attendees test positive for with its grand indifference to the country after the U.S. put too much of its focus on who have not only disregarded the deadly virus. Moreover, on a unmistakable scent of a failing “Nationalistic pride may swell vaccinations, a process in my the pandemic but also have day when India saw more than 2 state and its healthcare system. chests, but to fill lungs you need opinion too limited to avoid threatened to take action against lakhs cases, the Prime Minister However, I pray that banging air”- it is high time someone tells the oncoming disaster. Self- those who voice their opinions of the country on April 17 claimed utensils and showering flowers that to all the state governments congratulations and publicly regarding it. The Chief Minister of in front of a large gathering of on hospitals rescue us this time as well as the central government. stating that the virus was in its Uttar Pradesh has also threatened supporters that he had never seen from this deadly virus. Number of leaders in our country deathbed in India led to the people legal actions against anyone such huge crowds at his rallies (The author is currently prematurely declared a victory of the country, including me to who complains of shortages of before. Today his country is on the practicing as an Advocate in Delhi. over the virus before moving lower our guards against the oxygen since he insists there is brink of a humanitarian crisis. The views expressed are his own.) Guwahatians irked over public Veteran politician urinating in Bharalumukh walls Matang Sinh no more uwahati: Veteran uwahati: The residents residential places. politician from of BR Phookan road have The complaints the Congress shown concerns over have been filed party as well as the issue of urinating in previously to the founder of public walls of the area. the Guwahati GNE TV media Matang Sinh GAs per locals, people are Municipal has passed away owing conveniently urinating on the Corporation (GMC) to liver complications. walls of the B R Phookan road, following which a It is reported that Sinh Bharalumukh. According to sanitization drive had also tested COVID-19 sources approximately seven was undertaken in positive. to eight people urinate per the area. However, Matang Sinh was a minute. These men are mostly the passers-by former union minister of those working in nearby have again started India. He was elected to establishments or transport to urinate in the Rajya Sabha from Assam operators. same spot. in 1992 and served as “There is a toilet nearby The locals union minister of state under Smart City but people still of the area have proposed a G Plus informed the matter in parliamentary affairs urinate here,” Rajiv Didwania, a way to tackle the situation by to the GMC. A senior official has from 1994 to 1998. Sinh was with Radio Ooo La La and other resident of the area told G Plus. beautification of the area. “If the forwarded the matter to the site a close aide of former Prime popular media outlets. Sinh was The toilet residue flows administration plants flowers in engineer. The GMC is planning to Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao. arrested by CBI on 31 January through the walls to the main the area, maybe the people will enforce fines to the violators in He started the first satellite 2015 for his alleged involvement road thereby even entering the stop,” said a local resident. the future. channel of Assam NE TV along in Saradha Chit Fund Scam. 12 Lifestyle | May 08 - May 14 , 2021 Different methods of solving

Hemanta Kumar Sarmah Vaastu problems Engineer, Businessman, Advanced Pranic Healer and Su Jok Acupressure specialist.

There are several ways of rectification of bad Vaastu. Some are traditional methods and some are with the help of energisers. These methods are listed here but an expert should be consulted in case of any doubt.

›› By changing the entrance, openings at north and east ›› By planting different negative orientation can be trees and plants in ›› Shifting persons from one corrected different directions room to another according ›› Changing the structure of to suitability ›› By practising Yogic the building systems like meditation, ›› Making proper placement Pranayama,Reiki, Art of ›› By making changes in a of furniture including beds Living, Pranic Healing etc room and study tables ›› Using different ›› Providing required opening ›› Making proper lighting types of healing stones towards North & East Side arrangements like quartz, Tourmaline, of a building ›› By removing or adding Obsidian Crystals etc ›› By making changes in walls wherever necessary ›› Using wind chimes, toilets & bathrooms ›› Having proper ›› Using mirrors to change bells or Mantras to create ›› By changing the placement of dimension or regulate flow positive vibrations colour of the balconies and of energy ›› Using Gomti Chakras walls terraces ›› Using pyramids › › › sanitary › Black turmeric (Kala Haldi) › By closing ›Closing ›› Using Yantras to remove fittings › wrongly unwanted negative energy and › Using Himalayan Salt lamp placed doors water bodies ›› Making or shifting staircases generate positive ones and sprinkling salt water and windows and creating wherever needed mixed with turmeric ›› By performing various Puja, and making new ones proper ones › ›› Having proper water flow, Homa or Havan, invoking › By burning sandalwood › › › Closing the south and › Proper positioning water storage and drainage positive energies within incense sticks, guggal and west sides and creating of the electrical and Idols, healing stones etc camphor Dealing with people: How to tackle passive-aggression? e are social beings and might act as an ally when they aggressive comments. have no pleasure in doing such we have to deal with are with you, but often passive- things. The response we give all kinds of people. aggressive people spread false ii) Be yourself: them acts as fuel; it drives them From colleagues rumors about you. They may When you know your qualities to further notorious behavior. Abhijnan Pritam Sarma to relatives, from target people they do not like. and strengths, their comments Therefore, be cool-headed and be friendsW to strangers, a person When they are confronted, they will rarely affect you. But, if their a rock. has to make contact, converse may create drama or play the passive bullying tactics are taking gaslight you anytime. Gaslighting and socialize with them. We do victim card. For example, they a toll on you, you must realize iv) Communicate them is a manipulative technique used realize that it is not a cakewalk can say things like “You are being that you cannot change them. It face to face: by bullies where you are forced to handle everyone we meet. too naive, that was a joke, come is advised that rather than being When you need to send a clear to question your sanity. These This is because some individuals on cheer up!” reactive to such behaviour, you message, such as you have had might include blatant lies, playing may bring you to the edge by Let us look at some ways how should be ready to walk away. enough of their behaviour, you the victim card, drawing people their passive-aggression. It is a we can manage such people Walking away is a powerful must confront them in front. against you, or confuse you. less often discussed area, but around us: answer even if you do not speak. Sometimes people make mistake If you are facing problems you might immediately know This will let them know that you to start a conversation over text from people like these, these who these people are in your i)Set definite are not here to entertain their like WhatsApp or even email. techniques that I suggested can surroundings. They are within boundaries: comments. When dealing with such people, help you to stand for yourself. your proximity, maybe in your Once you notice that someone it is suggested that you should Firstly, we should observe our workplace or maybe relatives. is trying to constantly cross the iiI) Be not responsive: discuss with them in person. If environment. Secondly, we must Passive-aggressive behaviours line, you have to be direct and This is hard at times when you discuss over text, more often understand what is disturbing us. are those that involve acting assertive from that point onwards. you face passive aggression than not these conversations Lastly, we must take the necessary indirectly aggressive rather than The first step is to identify their from some person in proximity. will not be in favor of you, it can incentives to get out of that cycle directly aggressive. They might obscure behaviour and then But, when you are kind and less get ignited. So, you may want to of passive-aggressiveness. pass comments in a way which define the boundaries. You need responsive to their comments, it converse right in front, rather than (The author has completed his are rather sarcastic most of the to let them know what type of will automatically send them a in text. A face-to-face conversation master’s degree in Linguistics times. Regular usage of sarcasm behaviour is not negotiable. Be message that you are not affected is better for honest people who from Delhi University. He can be to attack someone personally is a concise, clear and calm when you at all by their behavior. If they lack manipulation skills. But, reached at abhijnan.sarma1@ primary characteristic of passive- are letting them know you are not know that you are least bothered passive-aggressive people are gmail.com. The views expressed aggressive individuals. They here to entertain their passive- about their remarks, they will good at shifting the topic and can in the article are his own.) | May 08 - May 14 , 2021 Feature 13 Tracing the roots of the idiom

ntimate theatre is meant theatre in Assam, to the Meenakshi Gautam to be ‘intimate’. It is like platform where it stands today walking on hot coals, where both in terms of creativity, you need to build a bridge technique, and content. This household name. with the audience and yet dramatic performance-oriented Music is a very important Imaintain a space where you document is for any scholar element in this production unleash your creativity. As you a treat, a treasure trove that and what leaves one pleasantly build that rapport, you have should have a place of honour in surprised is that themes like to hold a tight rein over your any theatre-based performance capitalization, exploitation and delivery and performance; so literature of Assam. class struggle ruled the roost as to not go overboard. Special Tapan Das is quite a even way back then. Although emphasis should be on the presence in amateur and the genre of music has been tonal quality and gestures; professional theatre. Though completely transformed down because an actor flourishes for more than a decade now, the ages, yet today as you listen when he understands the he was conspicuously absent to the music of bygone eras, dynamics of his space, time, in amateur theatre; as he was it still strikes a chord in your and audience. He should know involved in earning his bread heart. Manoj Sarma’s rendition when to go full blast, like when and butter in the professional of music of the bygone era he is performing in front of his theatre circuit. Ask him if along with the costume very audience, who comes ‘to be fully he misses being absent from successfully transported us entertained’ after a hard day’s theatre per se ie amateur to the bygone era. It was a work. For this kind of audience subject matter, and techniques, These actors were called theatre he says of course, “I monologue, and a personal magic, circus, dance and music, and how they developed over ‘Sokras’ in the native tongue. miss Rabindra Bhawan and its narrative was interwoven along light effects and all ingredients decades. Someone needs to Hence we have the title of the audience; it is a loss that is not with the historical content of a ‘masala movie’ needs to be treasure in pen and paper, play. Where a ‘chokra’ is seen easily compensated.” taking us on an educative, served on a platter. Yet there the journey of yatra, and this racing with a story on his lips As far as this particular entertaining expedition. is the sensitive audience who mammoth task was undertaken through the ups and downs experiment goes, content-wise Surjya, the cultural club, was comes wanting ‘fodder’ to mull by veteran theatre activist, of the personal narrative it is very rich and scholarly. responsible for organizing this over ‘in leisure’. This kind of Tapan Das. In fact, in behind- which adds momentum to the But as far as performance is experiment with Tapan Das at audience reads between the the-scenes conversations, he historical narrative. concerned, the tonal quality their premises of the club on lines and has a discerning eye told that it was his labour of What added to the momentum one feels could do with some 9th, 10th, and 11th April 2021. and ear. love during the lockdown. You of the play are excerpts of fine-tuning. One understands Surjya club has always been This was an experiment can lock down the ‘man’ but not popular plays enacted as a part that when one performs in a responsible for giving us some worth praising as far as ‘content’ his ‘spirits’. of the script by Tapan Das. Two particular format for a very very rich theatrical experiences. was concerned. This narrative ‘Rajdhar Sokoradourise’ is popular historical characters long time that it becomes Nayan Prasad did the creative traces the trajectory of ‘yatra’ a tribute to the tumultuous that found place were Aurangzeb ingrained in one’s idiom. It design of the play. The narrative in Assam till the advent of journey down the ages of yatra and Shah Jahan. On cannot help sometimes becomes difficult for was written and enacted by bhramyamaan (mobile theatre) in Assam. Like in other parts of but salute the stalwarts, who an actor to break it. But having well known actor Tapan Das on stage literally in Assam. the world, Assam also followed overcame financial, emotional, said that, one cannot forget and it was a genuine attempt to The rich history of yatra is the practice when males played social, and family pressures or undermine the powerhouse take us down the memory lane encapsulated in this narrative, the roles of the females in and ostracization to create talent that Tapan Das is; among into the bygone forgotten eras be it actors, plays, music, theatre and other performances. the masterpieces. It catapulted theatre lovers of Assam, he is a of yatra days of Assam. A spiritual guide

ow often do we reflect 336 pages, that includes work, to put together, and Saikh Md. Sabah Al-Ahmed about God? Honestly, introduction, prologue, write the rest. Overall it took 5 if we were to answer epilogue, and three appendices. months for the publication.” this question, most of Every chapter (reflection) ends Anyone who is interested in love doesn’t depend on your us would come up with with a “Prayer” — a practical an interior life, a meaningful worthiness!” Hself-embarrassing answers. way of living spirituality. life can benefit from the book. Fr. Anthuvan has dedicated Why? This is because we would Every prayer has two parts: an Any person from any religious his book to all the Salesians of try to get off with the alibi that “Intercession” and an “Action or cultural background can Don Bosco and the Missionaries “there’s hardly time to reflect plan,” to enable the reader to benefit from this book. The from abroad and from India and ponder about God in our mad get in touch with one’s own author also shares his personal who worked in North East India, rush for work in today’s mundane heart and the heart of God. The spiritual experiences and his and to their spiritual legacy – world.” On a lighter note, students author encourages us to start convictions in the course of as the Salesians in Northeast do remember God just before keeping a spiritual journal for the book. The book can be read are preparing to celebrate the their exams or before entering this purpose. from any chapter; because centenary of their arrival to examination halls. We all have a divine origin. every chapter is a reflection, Northeast. The author does There have been innumerable We are created by God in love, and allows the reader to get in not claim either originality or books on spiritualty that and for love. As God is love, touch with oneself and with a logical flow of chapters or have in some way or the other we too are love. Through the the divine present in oneself. themes, but presented spiritual caressed and touched our various reflections in the book, The book was released reflections right from the inner conscience. You are the author connects us to our at Guwahati by Rev. Fr. heart for personal benefit and God’s Wonder, is a beautifully divine origin. Our meaning Januarius S. Sangma, Salesian enrichment. Fr. Anthuvan has crafted spiritual guide by Fr. M. and identity is born only when reflective reading of the book is Provincial of ING on November widely used the writings of other Anthuvan Tharsis, SDB, presently we connect ourselves to God. therefore recommended. 16, 2020. Introducing the book, authors like Richard Rohr, Henri Provincial Secretary and Rector Human as we are, we need time On being asked as to how much Dr. (Fr.) P.D. John, SDB, Director Nouven and Pope Francis. of Don Bosco Provincial House, and space for getting in touch time was needed to complete the of Don Bosco Publications and You are God’s wonder Panbazar. He had completed his with us, and with God who is our book, Fr. Anthuvan says: “The Communications, said that the Fr. M. Anthuvan Tharsis, SDB PhD from the Salesian Pontifical Creator. The book also proposes lockdown period (last year) has author begins his book with the Don Bosco Publications University Rome in 2014. The various prayer-practices to tap been fruitful for me; it took about earth-shattering statement, “God Price: Rs. 300/- theme of the book is ‘spirituality’ the divine in oneself. Reading this four or five weeks to give shape to does not love you because you’re The reviewer is an international and is bifurcated into 52 chapters book should not be an intellectual the book. Some of the reflections good; God loves you because God award winning poet and a Faculty (52 reflections). Since there are exercise for the mind, but it come from my whatsapp and blog is good.” The author portrays of English and Social Sciences 52 weeks in a year, one reflection should involve our whole being: posting over the years. That’s why his conviction that God’s love at Don Bosco School, Panbazar, could be used per week. It has body, mind and heart. A slow and it took only five weeks of major is absolutely real and that His Guwahati. 14 Fiction | May 08 - May 14 , 2021 The exchange at the Dhaba

he late 80’s and early 90’s years our visits were made for one Anyway on one trip to our and he discreetly handed over were the most turbulent night only utilising two full days garden near Gohpur an old the same to me which I locked years for the Tea industry and only once or twice I had to stay business associate Dhanpat up in my briefcase. My PSO did in Assam and probably longer. It was a time of stress and Agarwalla who had been not know anything about this as in most other parts of worry for everyone associated supplying us ration and various I did not want to involve others Tthe north eastern states known with Tea apart from the local other stores for the garden came and next day after breakfast we collectively as the seven sisters. businessmen and government to meet me with a strange request. started our journey around nine As we had our tea gardens in officers as there was news of a I took him to the bungalow for in the morning. In fact I had to heavily rebel infested areas our lot of kidnappings and even heist a cup of tea when he told me of cut short our visit by avoiding an Ranjan Kumar Choudhury trips to visit the estates and attempts for looting money from his predicament. He had received inspection of the nursery to be on tea factories under our control the garden bankers. Letters and a letter asking him to pay up time for the meeting in the Dhaba. had to be planned in outmost extortion notes for money were twenty five lakhs within a week We reached Dhekiajuli around my role in the matter; but I spoke secrecy. We also had to take a dime a dozen which later on failing which he would have to one pm and I advised the driver a half truth that I would have to along a couple of armed security also was started by the bogus face dire consequences. This was to drive slowly as I wanted to see arrange to clear off our supplier’s personnel allotted to us initially groups masquerading as the sent by a fairly new but quite if Dhanpat was there and reached bills to enable him to pay his free by the government and later, operating militant organizations. active group which had spread the Dhaba which was overrun demand and hence I had stopped on requisition basis upon prior I remember receiving a letter terror by their cruel tactics and a with some army jawans and at the Dhaba to meet Dhanpat. I payment. Frankly speaking, a once accusing us as having lot number of killings in the villages. policemen. A jawan asked us not concocted a story that the poor planned attack on us could have of dealings in black pepper and He was asked to go to Dhekiajuli to stop there as there had been an victim had just been called to been carried out at will by the that we must pay a tidy sum to with the money when he would operation to nab some militants negotiate and settle his demand more heavily armed militants but avoid strictest action upon us. be met there by someone who and they had accosted some and I would arrange to release the presence of the armed escorts Most people who got similar would take him to meet their persons who had all his money from Guwahati. The was somewhat reassuring. What been called officer was quite flush with the was most satisfying was the there for successful operation as they were ease with which we could pass delivering able to catch two men suspected through army/police barricades some to be working overground for the put up randomly to check for money militant outfit and accepted my illegal arms and ammunition. It explanation. Suddenly Dhanpat was only rarely that one heard spoke out in a pleading voice of any capture of such items but requesting the officer to let him go it was a definite deterrent as the as he had only come to talk about dreaded groups usually travelled his demand letter and he looked at night taking the various village at me for support. I realised that roads and even waterways. Those he would first have to give his days in order to travel fast and statement so I went to him and in also not attract unnecessary a soft voice told him to report his attention as there were many case as I had informed the officer informers, we carried some and not to worry about his five packed food and avoided stopping lakhs with me. He could come to at the many dhabas /restaurants take it from me at Guwahati or I on the highways and towns we could carry the amount on had to pass through on our trips. my next trip. These places served quite good But Dhanpat had hot and tasty meals which we become very afraid all missed as we were on good for his safety as he terms with our favourite ones. I suspected that there must admit that those trips were would be a retribution condensed for work points only from the militants so he for which I always prepared the quickly arranged the affairs of special points to be checked and his business to be managed by took some important decisions on his “munib” i.e. their one man the spot after careful evaluation. trouble shooter. After a few days Time passed quite fast and only he landed up in our office at towards the evening I used to get Chenikuthi to pick up his money a bit worried for the night when and left for his native village near there was a great boost from our Jodhpur planning to return once garden union who volunteered the problem died out. He did to send a group of around six return after seven long months strong adivasi young men armed but an attempt was made on his with their traditional bows and life one evening in his shop which arrows and a couple of machetes. threats all settled up after however was not fatal as the We were very touched by this negotiations and usually the rule commander. He wanted my to them. In one corner I saw bullet only grazed his left arm. spontaneous action for our safety was to pay up around 10 to 25 per advice on how to deal in this about five men all looking very This time he did not flee but took as they truly believed that come cent of the initial demand… we matter and he in fact asked me to frightened and quiet and I spied additional security and decided what may it was essential that the were probably one of the first to come with him which of course Dhanpat amongst them. I caught to brazen it out. Like many others management does not get harmed disclose this threat and our appeal I refused point blank. However his eye and seeing me he perked Dhanpat knew that he would have which would in turn affect the for help to the administration in the distressed man could not up and came over to meet me to fight it out to survive in his running of the estate. This effort fact went up to the highest level be solaced and he begged me accompanied by two jawans. seventy years old business started was continued for many years and in Delhi for which an armed repeatedly when finally I asked I revealed that he was one of by his grandfather as it was the I got to know these volunteers on police/paramilitary outpost was him to wait for some time and I our bigger garden supplier and only work he knew and loved. personal names; needless to state put up in our more vulnerable would see if I could help him in the police was surprised to see Fortunately for him the repeated we paid them a good allowance garden. Unfortunately they had any way. In any case I would be that he had come empty handed pressure from the combined for ensuring our good night’s to transfer this unit out for the going back tomorrow to Guwahati while all the other four men security forces started to yield sleep. Tripura election duties and within and in fact I would have to pass were carrying cash with them. results which put the militants Once or twice the army officers a year our family had to face the by Dhekiajuli. I advised him to Apparently the Army intelligence on the run losing their control on posted nearby along with the brunt of repeated attacks and go ahead to Dhekiajuli tomorrow for which I had a lot of respect the field. I have remained in touch local police station OC used to harassment culminating in two morning and I offered to carry was quite efficient to have found with him over the years and he visit when we were there to make kidnappings and major ransom the cash amount with me which out about this meeting for the pay has expanded his business to two enquiries about our safety and demands. This probably did I planned to hand over to him at off but Dhanpat being there too other towns setting up his sons they too remarked that the garden not have any connection to our a Dhaba a few kilometres away with no money on him confused to be independent. Indeed those security was the best as they complaint as the militants had a from the town on the highway them. So before any further were real turbulent times …. would be aware of the movement free run for some time especially itself. He had already negotiated embarrassment I quickly took the (The story is inspired by true of the militants. During those in the north bank areas. the amount which was five lakhs officer to one side and explained event.) | May 08 - May 14 , 2021 News This Week 15

A quick round up of PM Modi only spoke his ‘mann the news that ki baat’ but failed to listen: mattered during the 6 Jharkhand chief minister past week Jharkhand Chief Minister and senior party leader of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, Hemant Soren took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Twitter Thursday Rupsi Airport ready for take-off night. Hemant Soren said that PM Modi had called him, however, he failed to listen and instead only spoke of his The Rupsi Airport of Assam, situated near Dhubri, own ideas. “Today the respected Prime Minister called. 1 is ready to take-off. He only spoke his ‘mann ki baat’ (his mind). It would have On May 5, 2021, a trial flight was conducted on the been better if he talked about something productive/ Guwahati-Rupsi-Guwahati route by Flybig airlines. The fruitful and listened as well,” CM Soren tweeted. trial run was completed timely & safely with extended support from the State govt & concerned agencies. The Rupsi Airport is developed under the RCS-UDAN scheme and operations for the same are to start from Saturday, Battlegrounds Mobile India to i.e., May 8, 2021 between Guwahati-Rupsi-Kolkata route. The flight is scheduled to operate on Tuesday, Thursday, launch soon Saturday and Sunday. Bookings for this route have been 7 PUBG Mobile India, which has been renamed opened by Flybig airlines. Battlegrounds Mobile India, is set to launch in India soon. South Korean video game developer ‘Krafton’ has announced the reveal of the online game which will be launched with exclusive in-game events, outfits AMCH closes OPD services for and features. The Indian version of the PUBG will have next two weeks, emergency its esports ecosystem with tournaments and leagues, 2 according to reports. Battlegrounds Mobile India will be services to continue launched in India allowing all users to play for free on The Assam Medical College and Hospital (AMCH) in Dibrugarh mobile devices. Gamers who have been eagerly waiting on Friday, May 6, issued a notice stating that the OPD for the launch of the Indian version of the PUBG game will services in the hospital will be closed for the next two weeks be able to pre-register themselves ahead of the launch and get the gaming experience at the with immediate effect. “As per discussion with the district earliest. This version of the game will only be available for gamers in India. authority it has been decided to close the OPD services for a period of two weeks with immediate effect and until further order. However during the period, regular emergency services will continue as before round the clock,” stated the notification Comedian Sugandha Mishra, released by the AMCH. The notice further stated that during the period, all staff of AMCH Dibrugarh will have to be present in their respective department for rendering their services. 8 husband booked for violating COVID-19 norms Endangered greater adjutant Actor, comedian, and singer of The Kapil Sharma Show stork rescued by villagers in fame Sugandha Mishra and her husband comedian Sanket 3 Bhosale, have been booked for allegedly violating COVID-19 Assam restrictions, imposed by the Punjab government, during their marriage ceremony on April 26. The celebrity couple In this hour of prevailing crisis due to the pandemic, villagers was booked on Wednesday, May 5, under the Disaster of Gosorguri, Morigaon demonstrated humane ways of saving a Management Act, under section 188 of IPC (Indian Penal life. Today, they rescued two endangered Greater Adjutant Stork Code) for allegedly violating the official orders. The case later handed them over to the nearest Forest Department Office. has been registered on the basis of a video clip of the The rescue mission was undertaken by Lokendra Chetri in marriage function which came out on social media. Morigaon and his team. The villagers of Gosorguri of Morigaon Punjab government restricted the number of persons for marriage functions to 10 and this also supported and protected a nesting colony of the bird. Due restriction was in place when Sughandha’s marriage was held. to their active support, the endangered bird found this place as a new safe home. Third wave of the COVID-19 Frogs married off to please hindu 9 pandemic is inevitable: 4 rain god ‘Indra’ in Tripura Centre Tea workers in Tripura are trying to please rain A phase three of the COVID-19 pandemic is inevitable, God with a bizarre ritual. Tribal tea garden workers from said the principal scientific adviser to the centre Profes- western Tripura organized the frogs’ wedding ceremony sor K Vijay Raghavan on May 5, while addressing a brief- traditionally called “banger biye.” The wedding of the ing of the Union Health Ministry. “It is inevitable, given two frogs took place in order to please the rain gods. The the higher levels of circulating virus but it is not clear on frogs tied the knot with aplomb after having taken bath what time scale this phase three will occur. We should in the river and wearing fancy wedding clothes. A video prepare for new waves,” informed Raghavan. He also has gone viral showing the two frogs exchanging garlands, said that scientists were currently making a map in the and applying vermilion (sindoor) as well. This ritual, also laboratory of all possible changes that could happen to called ‘Mandooka Parinaya,’ is performed in the belief that the virus and see how these changes could affect immune and vaccine evasion. the marriage will appease the Hindu rain-god, Indra.

RLD leader Ajit Singh dies Dinosaur bones found in West due to COVID-19 Khasi Hills 10 5 Former Union Minister and RLD (Rashtriya Researchers have found Dinosaur bones believed to Lok Dal) chief Ajit Singh has died due to COVID-19 on be as old as 100 million years from an area in West Khasi Hills Thursday, May 6. Ajit Singh, 82, was one of India’s senior in Meghalaya. The findings of the fossil bone fragments of most politician. He was tested positive for COVID-19 Sauropod dinosaurs identified at the site are yet to be published. on April 20. He was admitted to a private hospital in This makes Meghalaya the fifth state after Gujarat, Madhya Gurugram after his condition deteriorated due to a lung Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu to report Sauropod infection on Tuesday, May 4. Ajit Singh was a seven-time bones having titanosaurian affinity, according to reports. MP and served as Union Minister in the Governments of Sauropod dinosaurs have comparatively smaller heads with VP Singh, PV Narasimha Rao, Atal Bihari Vajpayee and long necks, long tails and four thick legs. They are the largest Manmohan Singh. animals to have ever lived on earth. 16 Catching Up | May 08 - May 14 , 2021

Barasha Das OFPIC THE WEEK The Gowhatee Municipal Board

auhati came under and Kefayet Ullah Munshi, two fire destroyed Fancy Bazar in 1907, British occupation on civilians, were soon included in the municipality had to borrow March 28, 1824, when the Town Committee. A municipal Rs. 2,270 for its restoration, which Colonel McMarine tax was levied on those whose was completed within a record annexed the town. earning was Rs. 5 per month or time of three months. In 1905, the GOn February 24, 1826, with the above. length of the Guwahati-Shillong signing of the Yandaboo Treaty, Assam was officially taken over by the British. However, the region was just another source of earning for the Raj, and Gauhati was merely treated as a cantonment for British troops. As such, no developments were undertaken for a decade, until 1836 when many of the soldiers and officials succumbed to malaria and kala- azar. The East India Company attributed this to the very bad sanitary system of Gauhati town. As such, a Town Improvement Prayers amid pandemic | Photo: Surajit Sharma Committee was formed in 1836 with the district magistrate and the civil surgeon. The Bengal Expressing their displeasure, 50 road was 764045 sq. miles, of this Government allotted a grant of Rs. inhabitants of the town submitted only 22.40 kms were under the 3000 to this committee. a petition to the Commissioner Gowhatee Municipality, and only In 1848, the committee demanding the abolition of the 15.2 kms of this was graveled road. proposed that tax be levied on board. They argued that 113 During 1906-07, Rs 4,500 was spent the businessmen and peddlers people could not represent a town on the development of two roads. With COVID-19 around, sneezing and (feriwala), and hence both North with 3000 citizens and that they The streetlights were replaced by and South Gauhati were brought themselves were not taxpayers as carbide gaslights in 1910. Electric coughing are looked at as crime. under its ambit. their earnings were less than Rs. 5. lights were introduced in the In 1852, Major H. Vetch This petition was rejected. 1920’s, wrote Dipankar Banerjee. After a half day at work and rain, reached home sneezing. Everyone was appointed the Deputy The Gowhatee Municipality On January 27, 1974, the 121-year- came to check and asked “covid niki?” Commissioner of Kamrup and the took up the tasks of developing old Guwahati Municipality chairman of the Town Committee. pucca roads, providing water was elevated to a corporation Looking at the situation decided to isolate for supply, sanitization, cleaning of under the Guwahati Municipal 113 residents of the town submitted sometime. Had a mini panic attack before I a signed petition to the Chairman, drains, filling up unnecessary Corporation Act of 1971. Radha appealing for the establishment wetlands, establish cremation Govinda Baruah and Lakhyadhar realized I should have done what maa said of a municipal board under the grounds and vernacular schools, Choudhury became its first and earlier, “Rod r pora ahiso, ga nudhubi, ga Bengal Municipal Act of 1850, etc. second mayors respectively, beya hobo.” which was initially denied. Major In 1876, the municipality was while Govinda Kalita and Saroj Vetch stated that the committee elevated to class one category, Kumar Sengupta were the first Covid, Guwahati’s changing weather, did not have the necessary and Manik Chandra Barooah two deputy mayors. The total lockdown and curfew, resources and manpower to set was appointed the municipal population of Guwahati rose to all are kamur now. up a municipal board. Later, the commissioner in 1883. In 1913, he 11,661 in 1901. Bengal government agreed to the became its first civilian chairman. In 1853, the municipality started proposal and an order was passed Till 1864, house tax was the main functioning from a small room “to constitute a municipal board source of municipal revenue. In adjacent to the Katchury (Kachari, for Gowhatee”. 1875-76, the total revenue collected the Deputy Commissioner’s Accordingly, the first statutory was 2727 pounds sterling. The first Office). In the 1880s the old Assam- Municipal Board of Gowhatee concrete road of the town was type single-storeyed building came into existence. Capt. Rowlatt built in 1880. The supply of tap was rebuilt into a new double- was the ex-officio president of water started in 1887, streetlights storeyed structure by the public the board, and James Harriot and were introduced the next year. works department. The Gauhati C.K. Hudson were the municipal In 1892, a grant of Rs. 10,000 was Municipal Corporation has since commissioners. Garga Ram Das received by the board. When a big then been functioning from here.

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