May 31, 2026 5:36 pm
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ONLINE AGE

(Online version of the Arunachal Age newspaper)

Author name: OnlineAge

REGIONAL

Man arrested for ‘raping’ two minor granddaughters in Assam’s Jorhat, one dies by suicide

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JORHAT, Two minor sisters were allegedly raped by their grandfather in Assam’s Jorhat district, with one girl dying by suicide the next day, police said on Saturday. The incident occurred under Teok police station area on Thursday evening. Police said the two girls, aged 10 and 12 years, had gone to pick mangoes in the backyard of their house when their grandfather accosted them and raped them. “The elder sister died by suicide on Friday, following which the incident came to light. It was then that the 10-year-old victim narrated the previous day’s incident,” they said. The 65-year-old accused, the victim’s grandfather from the paternal side, has been arrested based on the girl’s statement, the police added. (Source: PTI)    

REGIONAL

New BJP govt will rebuild ‘Shonar Bangla’: Himanta

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  Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday expressed hope that the new BJP government in West Bengal would rebuild ‘Shonar Bangla’ under the leadership of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. Speaking to PTI Videos on the sidelines of Adhikari’s swearing-in ceremony at the Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata, Sarma said ‘Anga, Banga, Kalinga and Pragjyotishpur’ are now governed by a party deeply rooted in preserving ‘Sanatani’ values.   He was referring to the ancient kingdoms that once ruled the region. Having come to power in Odisha (Kalinga) in 2024, the BJP unseated the 15-year-old TMC government in West Bengal (Banga) and returned to power for a third consecutive term in Assam, whose largest city is Guwahati (Pragjyotishpur). The BJP also installed its first government in Bihar (Anga) last month, with Samrat Choudhary leading it as the chief minister. Sarma said, “Hope the new government in West Bengal will reclaim ‘Shonar Bangla’.” Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, who was also present at the ceremony, said the new BJP government would help accelerate the state’s development. “India is on a trajectory of development. Under PM Narendra Modi, every state will progress,” she told reporters. (Source: PTI)    

REGIONAL

CJI stresses on convergence of legal aid, welfare schemes to ensure last-mile delivery of justice

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NONGPOH, Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant on Saturday stressed the need for convergence of legal aid and welfare schemes to ensure last-mile delivery of justice. Addressing a gathering after inaugurating an awareness camp in Meghalaya’s Ri Bhoi district, Justice Surya Kant, who is also the Patron-in-Chief of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), said healthcare access, educational support, livelihood opportunities and rehabilitation assistance were being brought together through such camps to ensure that benefits reached the grassroots. The mega camp-cum-awareness programme on NALSA schemes and government welfare schemes was organised at Marngar in Ri Bhoi district under the theme “Bridging the Gap” by the High Court of Meghalaya and the Meghalaya State Legal Services Authority (MSLSA) in partnership with the state government. “It is very essential that under one roof all these welfare schemes implemented by government departments, organisations and legal institutions are made available to all,” he said, urging all stakeholders to work in tandem to strengthen access to justice. The CJI also acknowledged the role of para-legal volunteers in delivering legal services at the grassroots level and called for strengthening their recruitment. Speaking on the occasion, Supreme Court judge Justice Ujjal Bhuyan highlighted the importance of aligning traditional justice systems with the constitutional framework while appreciating Meghalaya’s unique customary practices. He also referred to Ri Bhoi’s famed pineapple cultivation, remarking in a lighter vein that the people of Meghalaya were “as sweet as the pineapples grown there”. Meghalaya Law Minister Lahkmen Rymbui said the MSLSA had devised a comprehensive state action plan tailored to local conditions to effectively address issues faced by the people while remaining in consonance with national laws and policies. Chief Justice of the High Court of Meghalaya Justice Revati Mohite Dere said the mega camp was aimed at ensuring legal help reached the people at their doorstep. “In our democracy, justice has no distance,” she said, adding that 14 such mega camps had been organised across nine districts in the past five years, benefitting thousands of people. During the programme, dignitaries distributed assistive devices to persons with disabilities, financial assistance and work orders to self-help groups and village organisations, and certificates to legal aid lawyers and para-legal volunteers for their performance during 2025. Later, High Court judges Justice H S Thangkhiew and Justice W Diengdoh flagged off multi-utility vehicles under the NALSA Grant-in-Aid Scheme. (Source: PTI)                        

Editorial

Hate speech and the limits of law

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In its observation that India’s existing legal frameworks are adequate to handle hate speech, the Supreme Court may have taken a credible position, but it still does not offer solutions to the problem. The Court noted that it is not the absence of laws but the failure in their implementation that has aggravated the issue and held the executive responsible for the gaps in enforcement. While hearing multiple petitions seeking separate laws to adjudicate hate speech and related crimes, it asserted that hate speech is “fundamentally antithetical” to the constitutional value of fraternity. Pointing out relevant provisions in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) that cover hate crimes, the Court said they were designed for sufficient remedial action, including investigation and prosecution. There is no denying that poor enforcement of the law has further enabled a culture of hate in public discourse. The Court reminded public figures of their duty to exercise restraint in their speech. It reiterated its earlier judgments, which directed police officers to register FIRs immediately on receiving complaints about hate speech. It has been stated that prior sanction is not necessary for a magistrate to take cognisance of a complaint on the matter. The Court said the “constitutional role of the judiciary is primarily to interpret and apply the law, and not to legislate”; therefore, attempts by the courts to prescribe statutory schemes or frame provisions akin to legislation would amount to judicial law-making. While all this is true, it is notable that the Court’s past orders have not helped curb hate speech. Not many cases have been filed in connection with incidents of hate speech. Even when cases were registered—some involving brazenly divisive utterances—they resulted in acquittal. While the Court has stated its position, some issues stand out. It has directed the states to register cases against those indulging in hate speech, but the directive is largely ignored. Should the Court not take action on this? The inadequacy is systemic: when the offenders are people in positions of power, the complaints do not go anywhere. Though courts have stated what constitutes hate speech, there is still a lack of clarity. A legal definition may not be possible, given that at times, speech is defined by context. This leaves governments and the police with considerable latitude. Very often, courts also fail to see hate in speech, even when it is clear and unmistakable. (Source: DH)

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AAPPSCWA issues guidelines for private schools, hostels in Arunachal

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Common academic calendar proposed for private schools from 2027 Staff Reporter ITANAGAR, The All Arunachal Pradesh Private Schools and Children Welfare Association (AAPPSCWA) has issued a fresh set of guidelines for private schools and hostels across the state, focusing on student safety, discipline, cultural preservation and institutional accountability. Addressing a press conference at the Arunachal Press Club here on Friday, AAPPSCWA president Yowa Bullet said the guidelines were framed to maintain educational standards and ensure transparency in the functioning of private educational institutions. As part of efforts to promote indigenous culture and identity, the association has directed all member schools to observe every Friday as “Traditional Dress Day”, during which students and staff members will wear traditional attire representing their respective tribes or districts. The association has also introduced new transportation safety norms. School buses older than five years from the date of purchase will not be allowed for transportation services, while the speed limit for school buses has been fixed at 40 km per hour. “The presence of a handyman or helper in every school bus has been made compulsory to ensure student safety,” Bullet said. To improve emergency preparedness, schools have been instructed to prominently display emergency contact numbers, including ambulance, fire service and nearest police station contacts, both on school buses and within school premises. Regarding hostel management, the association has directed that every hostel floor must have at least one warden and two assistant wardens for proper supervision and student safety. CCTV cameras are also to be installed in school and hostel premises, excluding girls’ hostel areas and other restricted privacy zones. The guidelines further emphasise food safety and hygiene in hostel kitchens. Hostel authorities have been directed to ensure food quality, cleanliness and mandatory tasting of food before it is served to students. In a welfare-oriented initiative, every private school under the association has been asked to provide free admission to at least two orphan students, subject to verification and approval by the district administration and the association. “The Deputy Commissioner concerned will chair the selection process for orphan students,” Bullet said. The association also announced that all private schools must obtain membership of the association for a minimum period of three years with effect from January 2026. A vigilance team constituted by the association will conduct inspections in schools across the state to verify standards and monitor compliance with the guidelines. The association warned that schools admitting students without proper Transfer Certificate (TC) and Permanent Education Number (PEN) may face penalties. AAPPSCWA further cautioned against any form of threat, assault or misconduct towards teachers and school management by parents or outsiders and stated that legal action may be initiated in such cases. From the academic session 2027 onwards, all private schools in the state are expected to follow a common academic calendar, except schools in Tawang and Ziro regions that may be exempted due to local conditions. The association informed that the annual academic schedule, including reopening dates, vacations and examinations, will be prepared and published by December every year for implementation in the following academic session.  

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First engineer from village: Devi Tabri cracks JE exam after years of struggle

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SEPPA, In a remarkable story of perseverance and determination, Devi Tabri has become the first person from her village to clear the Junior Engineer (JE) examination, turning a long-cherished dream into a milestone achievement for her family and community. Born to Tayu Tabri and Bani Tabri, her success is being celebrated as a collective moment of pride for her village, inspiring many young aspirants in the region. Devi completed her schooling from Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS), Pampoli in Seppa and GHSS Kankarnallah in Naharlagun before pursuing higher education at Rajiv Gandhi Proudyogiki Vishwavidyalaya, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. Recalling her journey, Devi said, “It feels unreal and emotional at the same time. Coming from a small village where a government job once felt like a distant dream, becoming the first JE is not just my achievement but a victory for my family and village.” Her path to success was marked by challenges, including financial constraints, academic pressure and repeated setbacks in earlier Assistant Engineer and Junior Engineer examinations. “The preparation process was very challenging. There were moments of self-doubt when I could not clear the previous examinations. Managing pressure and long hours of study was mentally exhausting,” she said. Despite difficulties, Devi remained focused, often balancing her preparation with part-time teaching at coaching centres to support herself financially. “Yes, I faced financial, academic and social challenges, but my family and friends stood by me throughout, emotionally and financially whenever possible,” she added. After three determined attempts, she finally cleared the JE examination, bringing joy and pride to her family and entire village. “My family was extremely emotional and proud after the result. The villagers were equally happy because I became the first engineer from our village,” she said. Devi’s achievement has now become a source of inspiration for many young students in her village, encouraging them to pursue higher education and competitive examinations. “My message to the youth is that no dream is too big, no matter where you come from. I also hope parents continue to support their children’s education and aspirations,” she said. Looking ahead, she views this success as the beginning of a larger journey. “Clearing the JE exam is not the final destination. It is the beginning of greater responsibility and growth. I may also prepare for higher-level competitive examinations in the future,” she added. Devi Tabri’s journey stands as a powerful example of resilience, hard work and determination, proving that perseverance can overcome even the most challenging circumstances.  

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Support grows for SUMP PFR activities in Upper Siang

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YINGKIONG, In continuation of outreach activities for the proposed Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP), pro-Pre-Feasibility Report (PFR) members from Zido, Ngaming and Palling villages extended their support to the ongoing PFR process in Upper Siang district. At a programme held at the Community Hall in Zido, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by 46 members from Zido village and 67 members from Ngaming village expressing consent to support PFR-related activities. In a separate programme at the Community Hall in Palling, 26 members from Palling village also signed the MoU in support of the initiative. The MoU signing ceremonies were attended by Tuting-Yingkiong MLA and Advisor to the Chief Minister Alo Libang, Chief Engineer of the Hydropower Department K Perme, State Nodal Officer for SUMP Er Atek Miyu, along with government officials, Gaon Burahs, public leaders and pro-PFR members. The MoU was signed on behalf of the Government of Arunachal Pradesh by Upper Siang Deputy Commissioner Talo Jerang, while representatives of Project Affected Families (PAFs) included Eshi Siboh of Zido, Odang Gamno of Ngaming and Genom Tekseng of Palling. Addressing the gathering, Tuting-Yingkiong MLA Alo Libang highlighted the significance of the proposed project and its strategic importance for the region. “The government is committed to ensuring informed participation and cooperation from all stakeholders in the proposed PFR activities,” Libang said. Upper Siang DC Talo Jerang said the objectives, potential benefits and concerns related to the PFR were being communicated to all stakeholders in a transparent manner. “We are committed to ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the process,” Jerang said. He further stated, “Participation in the MoU process is entirely voluntary. No coercion or force is being applied and every individual’s decision and viewpoint are respected. The administration is making dedicated efforts to reach out to people at the village level to ensure an open and transparent process.” Pro-PFR members also shared their views during the programme and expressed support for the proposed project.

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Papum Pare DC reviews anti-drug measures, stresses collective action

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YUPIA, A meeting of the Narcotics Coordination (NCORD) Committee was held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall in Yupia under the chairmanship of Papum Pare Deputy Commissioner (DC) Lobsang Tsering, focusing on strengthening anti-drug measures and inter-departmental coordination. Addressing the meeting, the DC underscored the seriousness of the government’s efforts to curb drug abuse and called for collective responsibility from all stakeholders. “The movement against drug abuse has been intensified following the constitution of NCORD Committees at various levels. We must work together to effectively tackle this menace,” he said. Tsering reiterated the government’s commitment to creating a safer and healthier society free from drug abuse. The DC also referred to concerns regarding Mengio being marked in the State’s map of illegal cannabis cultivation. He clarified that no active illegal cultivation is currently being carried out in Mengio, except for naturally growing wild cannabis in certain areas, and suggested its removal from the cultivation map. He directed the Police Department and district administration to form joint teams for the destruction of wild cannabis along roadsides and other areas and to submit Action Taken Reports (ATRs) to the government. He further advised Circle Officers of Leporiang, Parang, Mengio and Sagalee to jointly plan and carry out regular destruction drives within their jurisdictions to eliminate wild cannabis growth. Emphasising accountability, Tsering stated that Action Taken Reports must be prepared in both hard and soft copies and presented by all departments during NCORD meetings. Tsering, who also serves as Commissioner of Tax and Narcotics, assured full support in strengthening training and capacity-building initiatives to enhance anti-drug efforts. He stressed the need for convergence among key departments, including Education, Women and Child Development, Information and Public Relations and Health, for intensified awareness campaigns against drug abuse. NCORD convener Phassang Simi briefed the members on previous Action Taken Reports and called for stronger coordination, stating that drug addiction is severely impacting families and society. He also raised concern over the absence of a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for admission of mentally disturbed persons at the mental health facility and urged the Deputy Commissioner to take up the matter for necessary action. The DC also took serious note of the absence of some departments during the meeting and directed that all concerned departments must ensure mandatory presence and active participation in future NCORD meetings. (DIPR)

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Honey testing laboratory inaugurated at RGU to strengthen apiculture sector

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DOIMUKH, A state-of-the-art Honey Testing Laboratory was inaugurated at the Department of Food Technology, Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU), marking a major step towards strengthening the apiculture sector in Arunachal Pradesh. The initiative is part of a project funded by the National Bee Board (NBB) under the National Beekeeping and Honey Mission and implemented by the North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR) in collaboration with RGU. The programme began with the ribbon-cutting ceremony and plaque unveiling, followed by a demonstration of advanced honey testing procedures. A Bhumi Pujan was also conducted for the upcoming Honey Processing Unit aimed at strengthening honey processing and value-addition infrastructure in the region. Addressing the gathering, Doimukh MLA Nabam Vivek highlighted the importance of scientific beekeeping and value-added honey production for rural economic growth. “We must empower local farmers and youth through technology-driven initiatives and strengthen market linkages and entrepreneurial opportunities in Arunachal Pradesh,” he said. RGU Vice Chancellor Prof S K Nayak and Tezpur University Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof Amarendra Kumar Das stressed the role of academic institutions in promoting research-driven agricultural innovation and sustainable apiculture practices. They also underlined the importance of quality testing and certification in improving market competitiveness and creating opportunities for student research and skill development. NECTAR Director General Dr Arun Kumar Sarma said, “The initiative represents a replicable model for livelihood generation and rural development through scientific beekeeping. Integrated infrastructure for testing, processing, storage and marketing will significantly strengthen the apiculture ecosystem in the Northeast.” He also highlighted the role of digital monitoring systems and geo-tagging applications in ensuring transparency and efficient support for beekeepers. The project coordination and implementation at RGU are being carried out under the leadership of Dr Sandeep Janghu along with coordinators Dr N R N V Gowripathi Rao, Dr Saxena R P N and Dr Ashok Kumar Yadav. The laboratory and upcoming processing infrastructure are expected to benefit local beekeepers through access to quality testing facilities, improved market value for certified honey, enhanced processing and storage systems, technical training and sustainable livelihood opportunities. Officials said the initiative would help strengthen the honey value chain in Arunachal Pradesh, create employment opportunities for rural youth and women, and promote entrepreneurship in the region. NECTAR, functioning under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, has played a key role in implementing the project in collaboration with Rajiv Gandhi University. Officials said the initiative is expected to position Arunachal Pradesh as an important contributor to India’s beekeeping sector.

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Ex SAMANVAY 1.0 strengthens civil–military synergy in Eastern Arunachal

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TEZU, The Lohit Brigade under the aegis of Dao Division on Friday organised Ex SAMANVAY 1.0, a Civil–Military Liaison Conference at Lohitpur, aimed at strengthening inter-agency coordination and promoting collaborative governance in Eastern Arunachal Pradesh. Held at the Headquarters of Lohit Brigade, the conference brought together senior officials from the Indian Army, civil administration, police, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and other departments to deliberate on strategic and developmental issues concerning the frontier region. Key discussions focused on border infrastructure development, operational preparedness, land acquisition matters, disaster management coordination, tourism promotion, and the prevailing security and socio-political scenario. Participants also deliberated on concerns related to anti-social elements, anti-national activities and the growing drug menace. Lohit Brigade Commander Brigadier Kaustubh Kekre, Sena Medal, highlighted the importance of integrated civil–military coordination in ensuring peace, stability and inclusive development in border areas. The conference was conceptualised and coordinated by 9 RAJPUT Commanding Officer Colonel Roopak Kumar Thakur and served as a platform for constructive dialogue and coordinated action among various stakeholders. Among the civil officials present were Wakro Additional Deputy Commissioner AJ Lungphi, Lohit Superintendent of Police Thutan Jamba, Namsai Deputy Superintendent of Police Matin Ratan, District Information and Public Relations Officer Nyatum Doke, and District Disaster Management Officer (DDMO) Ayang Yirang, along with senior officers from Lohit, Namsai and Anjaw districts. Lohit SP Thutan Jamba presented an overview of the security situation and socio-political developments in the region, highlighting law and order concerns, drug-related issues and the need for enhanced coordination among enforcement agencies. DDMO Ayang Yirang delivered a presentation on disaster preparedness and response mechanisms, stressing the importance of joint planning and capacity-building measures in disaster-prone areas. The conference also underscored the need for effective image building, perception management and public awareness initiatives. Participants stressed the importance of proper publicity and visibility of developmental activities undertaken by various agencies to build public trust and counter misinformation in sensitive border areas. Ex SAMANVAY 1.0 reaffirmed the shared commitment of participating agencies towards strengthening coordinated governance, enhancing rapid response capabilities and advancing nation-building efforts in Eastern Arunachal Pradesh. Officials expressed confidence that such collaborative platforms would continue to improve coordination, service delivery and long-term peace and stability in the region. (DIPR)