'Sentinels Of North East' Assam Rifles Celebrates 190th Raising Day. See Pics

India's oldest paramilitary force the Assam Rifles celebrated its 190th Raising Day at its headquarters in Meghalaya's capital Shillong today.

The 4 Assam Rifles received the 'DGAR Banner' for 2023-24, while 3 Assam Rifles came first runners-up, and 36 Assam Rifles took the second runners-up place.

DGAR is short for Director General Assam Rifles.

The honours (DGAR Banner) were a significant highlight of the Raising Day ceremony that recognised the dedication, professionalism and outstanding contributions made by battalions and units in ensuring security and stability of the region, the Assam Rifles said in a post on its official Facebook page.

Assam Rifles Director General Lieutenant General Vikas Lakhera spoke highly of the personnel for their outstanding contribution in fighting insurgency in the northeast region and Jammu and Kashmir, an official said.

The Assam Rifles - 'Sentinels of the North East' - is under the administrative control of the Union Home Ministry and operational control of the Indian Army.

At the war memorial in Shillong's Laitkor, all ranks of the force paid homage to soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice for the nation, the Assam Rifles said.

The force has been modernising itself with proper acquisition of weapons, surveillance, and protective equipment, the official said.

Union Ministers Amit Shah and Jyotiraditya Scindia, and governors and chief ministers of states in the northeast also extended greetings to the Assam Rifles on its 190th Raising Day.

"Greetings to our brave sentinels of the Northeast, the Assam Rifles personnel and their families on Raising Day. The force has knocked off the challenges to the security of the northeast with their valour and won hearts through their humanitarian assistance to the people. Salute to the warriors of the Assam Rifles who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty," Mr Shah said in a post on X.

Greetings to our brave sentinels of the Northeast, the Assam Rifles personnel and their families on Raising Day.

The force has knocked off the challenges to the security of the Northeast with their valour and won hearts through their humanitarian assistance to the people.... pic.twitter.com/CsXuf6zR8i

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) March 24, 2025

Mr Scindia, who heads the Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Ministry, said the Assam Rifles "have stood as the guardians of the northeast for decades, ensuring security with unmatched valour while also fostering deep bonds with the people through their relentless service."

Honouring the unwavering courage & dedication of the Assam Rifles on their Raising Day.

They have stood as the guardians of the Northeast for decades, ensuring security with unmatched valor while also fostering deep bonds with the people through their relentless service.

My... pic.twitter.com/BXXLzz5eyB

— Jyotiraditya M. Scindia (@JM_Scindia) March 24, 2025

The Assam Rifles was formed in 1835. It has grown substantially over the years from 17 battalions in 1960 to over 45 battalions at present. The force guards the 1,643-km border with Myanmar along Arunachal Pradesh (520 km), Manipur (398 km), Nagaland (215 km), and Mizoram (510 km).

Outside of Jammu and Kashmir, the Assam Rifles is known as one of the most experienced counter-insurgency forces. Two Assam Rifles battalions were sent from Manipur to Jammu and Kashmir in September 2024.

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"Apologise For What Happened On Show, Will Ensure No Recurrence": Samay Raina

Comedian Samay Raina on Monday expressed regret over a series of remarks that were made on his now-deleted web show "India's Got Latent", and promised to be more careful in ensuring that such incidents are not repeated, sources said.

In a statement to the Maharashtra Cyber Cell, Mr Raina, who got into trouble over Podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia's remarks in February that led to a massive furore, "admitted his mistake" and "apologised for whatever happened during the show". 

The comedian also said that "everything happened in a flow during the show and that he did not intend to say what he said", the sources added.

He promised to be more careful and ensure that such incidents are not repeated. 

Besides, the comedian said the entire controversy surrounding his show has taken a toll on his mental well-being. "He said that his Canada tour did not go well. He apologised and said he knew he was wrong," one of the sources said. 

Mr Raina, who recently returned from abroad, appeared before the probe agency at its headquarters in Mhape, where he recorded his statement for over five hours, another source said. The agency had earlier summoned him several times in the case. 

In February, Mr Allahbadia's remarks about parents and sex on the "India's Got Latent" show kicked up a political storm in the Maharashtra political circle, with many calling out for a ban on his podcast. Politicians, including Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and opposition leaders of the state, criticised him for exploiting freedom of speech.

The issue echoed in Parliament where Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske called for a law to regulate social media. Multiple FIRs were filed against Mr Allahbadia, Mr Raina and others linked to the show. They were also summoned by the National Commission for Women (NCW).  

Mr Allahbadia has apologised twice for his remarks and Mr Raina - who deleted his show - earlier this month rescheduled his India comedy tour in the aftermath.

Mr Raina's shows in Gujarat were also reportedly cancelled in February following the outrage.

Last month, the Supreme Court granted interim protection from arrest to Mr Allahbadia while calling his comments "vulgar", and saying he had "dirty mind" which put the society to shame. 

Besides Mr Raina and Mr Allahbadia, YouTuber Ashish Chanchlani and comics Jaspreet Singh and Apoorva Makhija were also charged in cases registered by the Guwahati Police and the Maharashtra Police's Cyber Cell.

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'Equip Children With...': Manish Sisodia On Role Of Teachers In Age Of AI

Schools must go beyond academics and equip children with the ability to live meaningfully with others in the age of Artificial Intelligence, former Delhi Education Minister Manish Sisodia said while addressing a gathering of teachers from Delhi, Punjab, and Uttarakhand.

Mr Sisodia said the central challenge of the future will not be mastering technology but fostering harmony within oneself, with others, and with nature. 

Speaking to teachers associated with an NGO focused on professional development, he emphasized that education must prioritize emotional intelligence, empathy, and coexistence in an era increasingly dominated by machines.

The former Delhi Education Minister said the world is undergoing a "rapid transformation due to Artificial Intelligence". "We are entering an era where AI can already write essays, solve math problems, summarize history chapters, and even simulate science experiments," he said. 

In such a world, the traditional idea of the teacher as a 'content delivery machine' is becoming obsolete. Manish Sisodia highlighted that in "Such a vast and dynamic education system, AI can be a powerful tool, but only teachers can provide context, ethics, emotional support, and real-world wisdom." 

"The purpose of school education must now shift from content delivery to character development, creativity, collaboration, and compassion," he added.

Giving an example, Mr Sisodia said, "Earlier, when a teacher taught Newton's Laws, students needed the teacher to explain it. Today, a 12-year-old can ask ChatGPT and get instant answers, illustrations, and even video explanations. The question, therefore, is no longer how to teach Newton's Laws, but why it is important to learn about motion, force, and inquiry at all."

"Let AI give them the answers. Teachers must help them frame questions that matter questions about ethics, meaning, and society."

He cited the example of Finland, where schools are now focusing more on phenomenon-based learning rather than siloed subject content. "Why can't we have a curriculum unit in Class 8 called 'Plastic: A Curse or a Convenience?' instead of isolated chapters in science, geography, and civics?"

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Did Shivaji Have A Dog? Call To Remove Dog Memorial From Raigad Fort

Former Rajya Sabha member and a descendant of the Kolhapur royal family, Sambhajiraje Chhatrapati, has asked Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to remove the memorial of a dog from Raigad Fort.

The memorial, built in 1920s, was for "Waghya" meaning "Tiger". 

Legend has it that he was a mix breed dog of the Maratha emperor. When Shivaji died, the dog apparently jumped onto his funeral pyre and immolated himself.

The Archaeological Survey of India, however, maintained that there is no documentary evidence of such a dog, Sambhajiraje Chhatrapati has claimed. 

The former MLA, in a letter to the Chief Minister dated March 22, has stressed that the dog's memorial should be removed before May 31.

"A few decades ago, a memorial of a dog named Waghya was erected near that of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at the Raigad Fort, his capital in the 17th century," his letter read.

"However, there is no documentary evidence concerning Waghya, the name of the pet dog of Shivaji Maharaj. As there is no such evidence, it is an encroachment on the fort, which is legally preserved as a heritage structure," he had added.

"It is unfortunate and demeans the legacy of the great Shivaji Maharaj," said the ex-MP.

A structure older than 100 years is protected as per ASI's policy. The dog's commemorative structure should be removed before it earns such a status, Sambhajiraje added. 
 

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Eminent Gandhian Krishna Bharati Passes Away At 92

Krishna Bharati, a Gandhian and daughter of noted freedom fighter late Pasala Krishna Murthy, passed away here on Sunday. She was 92.

Krishna Bharati breathed her last at her residence in Snehapuri Colony here following a brief illness.

Hailing from the West Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh, she was the second daughter of freedom fighters Pasala Krishna Murthy and Anja Lakshmi.

Krishna Bharati was a strong believer in Gandhian values and upheld the same throughout her life. She also strived for the upliftment of Dalits. She had made donations to educational institutions and goshalas.

Krishna Bharati was unmarried. She is survived by four brothers and three sisters.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has condoled the death of Krishna Bharati. He recalled her services for educationally uplifting the weaker sections of society.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi touched the feet of Krishna Bharati at Andhra Pradesh's Bhimavaram at a programme to unveil a statue of freedom fighter Alluri Sitarama Raju in 2022.

The Prime Minister had also called on the other family members of Pasala Krishna Murthy.

Born in 1900 in West Vipparru village in the Tadepalligudem taluka of the West Godavari district, Pasala Krishna Murthy joined the Congress party along with his wife in 1921.

Krishna Murthy and his wife had unfurled the Indian flag on the office of Bhimavaram sub-collector in 1932, for which they were imprisoned.

Anja Lakshmi had given birth to Krishna Bharati in jail. Krishna Bharati had spent the first 10 months of her life in prison.

Krishna Murthy couple donated their entire property for the freedom movement and took part in the Salt Satyagraha (Dandi March). When Mahatma Gandhi visited West Godavari district, Krishna Murthy served as his personal secretary.

The couple had also taken part in the Bhoodan movement of Vinoba Bhave and got house sites for Dalits in their villages.

Krishna Murthy passed away in 1978.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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"I Did Not Incite Any Violence": Sambhal's Jama Masjid Sadar Chief Zafar Ali

Jama Masjid Sadar Chief and Shahi Mosque Committee Chief, Zafar Ali, on Sunday claimed that he did not incite any violence regarding the November 24 Sambhal incident.

"I did not incite any violence...," said Zafar Ali while being taken into custody by Uttar Pradesh Police on Sunday for questioning in connection with the violence that erupted in Sambhal on November 24 last year.

Ali was taken to Chandausi for a medical examination amid heavy security.

Following his detention, a group of his supporters staged a protest, demanding his immediate release. The police have yet to issue an official statement regarding Ali's role in the case.

Earlier today, Zafar Ali and his son were summoned to the Sambhal Police Station for questioning. Security has been tightened outside the Chandausi Court, where both are to be presented as part of the legal proceedings in the case.

Circle Officer Anuj Chaudhary said, "There are no new arrangements made... Forces have been deployed to maintain peace... There is peace in the area..."

The violence in question occurred on November 24, 2024, when an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) team arrived to survey the historic Shahi Jama Masjid, accompanied by a Hindutva mob chanting "Jai Shri Ram." As local Muslims gathered outside the mosque and tensions escalated, police resorted to force and opened fire on the protesters, killing at least four men and several injured, including officials and locals.

The Uttar Pradesh Police's Special Investigation Team (SIT) had earlier filed a chargesheet of over 4,000 pages in six of the 12 cases in the November 24 Sambhal violence that erupted during the ASI's examination of the Mughal-era mosque.

The violence resulted in 12 FIRs and 80 arrests for allegedly pelting stones at police from rooftops.

According to the charge sheet, there were 159 total accused in the case. It also mentioned that the weapons recovered from the site of violence and other places were manufactured in the United Kingdom, USA, Germany, and Czechoslovakia.

Since November last year, no further incidents of violence have been reported in the area. During Holi celebrations, the police maintained tight security, conducting flag marches to ensure peace. To protect the mosque from any colours or vandalism, a tarpaulin sheet was also placed over the Jama Masjid at that time.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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"Accused Not Freed": Disha Salian Father's Lawyer On Sushant Singh Case Closure

The recent filing of closure reports by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the death cases of Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput (SSR) has sparked fresh debates and controversies.

Advocate Nilesh C Ojha, representing Disha Salian's father, has responded strongly to the CBI's move, asserting that a closure report does not automatically exonerate the accused and that further investigation can still be ordered.

Speaking exclusively to IANS, Mr Ojha emphasised that the closure report filed by the CBI in the cases related to Sushant Rajput does not mean that the accused are off the hook.

"First of all, there has been no authentic statement from CBI on the closure report. Even after a closure report is submitted, it does not imply that the accused are freed. There is always the possibility that the court could reject the report if it finds it unsatisfactory or if further evidence emerges. The court could order further investigations, issue fresh charge sheets, or even issue arrest warrants against the accused, as seen in cases like the Aarushi Talwar murder case," he said.

Mr Ojha further clarified that he had not yet seen the closure report and that the CBI had not provided any official or authentic statement regarding its findings.

He cited examples of previous high-profile cases, such as that of Justice Nirmal Yadav, where the courts had ordered further investigations after rejecting closure reports.

"The court may not accept the closure report if it finds the investigation incomplete or unsatisfactory. In such cases, a fresh charge sheet may be filed, or even arrest warrants could be issued," he added.

Addressing the ongoing political debates surrounding the case, Mr Ojha firmly rejected the notion that political motivations were driving the case.

"While politicians may have their own agenda, this case is about seeking justice for Disha Salian and Sushant Singh Rajput, not political gains. The legal process should remain independent and focused on finding the truth, not influenced by political dynamics," Mr Ojha added.

He also detailed the legal steps taken by Disha Salian's father in his fight for justice. According to Mr Ojha, Disha's father had filed a public interest litigation (PIL) in September 2023, prompting the Maharashtra government to form a Special Investigation Team (SIT) by December of the same year.

Mr Ojha further pointed out that despite the SIT's formation and Disha's father's statements in support of reopening the case, there was a significant delay in action from the authorities.

"In January 2024, a formal complaint was filed by Disha's father, which included evidence and sought to register a case of gang rape and murder against individuals such as Aditya Thackeray. However, the complaint was delayed for many months, and despite submitting substantial evidence, the case was not registered," Mr Ojha added.

The advocate highlighted key unanswered questions in the case, which he believes require urgent attention.

"Disha Salian's father is demanding answers to four crucial questions: Was Aditya Thackeray's mobile tower location linked to the incident? Was he in the vicinity at the time? Why was a false post-mortem report created? And why were witnesses reportedly threatened?" he said.

Mr Ojha stressed that these unresolved issues point to serious manipulations in the investigation and the need for transparency and accountability.

He also noted that the original claims made by the police, such as the narrative of Disha Salian's death by falling from the 14th floor without any visible injuries, raise doubts.

"When the post-mortem report shows no fractures or blood loss, it raises serious questions about the authenticity of the investigation. The authorities must look into these discrepancies," Mr Ojha concluded.

Sushant (34), popularly known as SSR, was found dead at his Bandra residence on June 14, 2020, sparking a major controversy. The investigation was later handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation. His postmortem report, conducted at Mumbai's Cooper Hospital, stated the cause of death was asphyxia.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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