Residents of Northeast India seeking to travel abroad for education, work, business, or tourism will now have access to a new visa application centre in Guwahati, Assam. The newly opened facility, located at the Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT) in Khanapara, will accept visa applications for 14 countries. A first-of-its-kind centre in Assam, it will serve applicants from all eight Northeastern states: Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim.<h2>A more connected, accessible, and opportunity-driven Northeast</h2>Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated the facility. Tourism Minister Ajanta Neog, Transport Minister Charan Boro and Yummi Talwar, VFS Global's chief operating officer for South Asia, along with representatives from the diplomatic missions of Switzerland, the Czech Republic, Italy and France were also present at the ceremony."As we move forward, our focus must remain on building stronger connections, creating opportunities for our young people, supporting businesses, and welcoming visitors from across the world. The inauguration of this visa application centre is an important step in that direction. It represents more than a new facility; it represents progress towards a more connected, accessible, and opportunity-driven Northeast. I congratulate VFS Global and everyone associated with this initiative. I am confident that this centre will make a meaningful contribution to the people of Assam and the wider Northeastern region," said Sarma.<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn3.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20261016/image-1792128352443.jpeg"></figure>Spread across approximately 3,200 square feet, the facility is located in Guwahati, a key commercial hub for the region, making it easier for applicants to access visa application services without having to travel outside the Northeast.<h2>Which countries can you apply to?</h2>The centre will process applications for Austria, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Egypt, Estonia, France, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Malta (D-Visa applications), Morocco, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.&nbsp;The centre is intended to improve access to visa application services for people across the Northeast, particularly those who previously faced additional travel to reach a service location. The facility said the move reflects growing demand for international travel from the region.The Guwahati facility is part of a wider network through which VFS Global provides visa application services on behalf of governments. The company says it operates 561 visa application centres across 20 cities in India, serving 53 sovereign governments.

A new visa application centre has opened at ISBT, Khanapara, Guwahati, offering application services for 14 countries. It will serve residents of all eight Northeastern states, potentially reducing the need to travel outside the region to access these services.


Residents of Northeast India seeking to travel abroad for education, work, business, or tourism will now have access to a new visa application centre in Guwahati, Assam. The newly opened facility, located at the Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT) in Khanapara, will accept visa applications for 14 countries. A first-of-its-kind centre in Assam, it will serve applicants from all eight Northeastern states: Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim. A more connected, accessible, and opportunity-driven Northeast Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated the facility. Tourism Minister Ajanta Neog, Transport Minister Charan Boro and Yummi Talwar, VFS Global's chief operating officer for South Asia, along with representatives from the diplomatic missions of Switzerland, the Czech Republic, Italy and France were also present at the ceremony. "As we move forward, our focus must remain on building stronger connections, creating opportunities for our young people, supporting businesses, and welcoming visitors from across the world. The inauguration of this visa application centre is an important step in that direction. It represents more than a new facility; it represents progress towards a more connected, accessible, and opportunity-driven Northeast. I congratulate VFS Global and everyone associated with this initiative. I am confident that this centre will make a meaningful contribution to the people of Assam and the wider Northeastern region," said Sarma. Spread across approximately 3,200 square feet, the facility is located in Guwahati, a key commercial hub for the region, making it easier for applicants to access visa application services without having to travel outside the Northeast. Which countries can you apply to? The centre will process applications for Austria, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Egypt, Estonia, France, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Malta (D-Visa applications), Morocco, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. The centre is intended to improve access to visa application services for people across the Northeast, particularly those who previously faced additional travel to reach a service location. The facility said the move reflects growing demand for international travel from the region. The Guwahati facility is part of a wider network through which VFS Global provides visa application services on behalf of governments. The company says it operates 561 visa application centres across 20 cities in India, serving 53 sovereign governments.

A new visa application centre has opened at ISBT, Khanapara, Guwahati, offering application services for 14 countries. It will serve residents of all eight Northeastern states, potentially reducing the need to travel outside the region to access these services.

Visa applications made easier for Northeast India as Guwahati opens new centre

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is setting up a new facility in Chandrapur near Guwahati, Assam, to boost radar and satellite tracking capabilities. The foundation stone has been laid by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in the presence of ISRO chairman V Narayanan and other senior space scientists on September 21. ISRO announced on Thursday that the new facility is being set up as part of its Network for Space Object Tracking and Analysis (NETRA) and will contribute towards bolstering Space Situational Awareness. This awareness is essential in tracking space assets and protecting them from potential collisions with space debris.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eiffel-tower-probe-finds-no-explicit-request-from-baps-delegation-to-remove-female-staff-1790879538247">Eiffel Tower probe finds ‘no explicit request’ from BAPS delegation to remove female staff</a><h3>Guwahati-based centre</h3>The ISRO Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC) is overseeing the establishment of this facility, which will be equipped with advanced radar technology. Once it becomes operational, the Guwahati-based centre will enhance ionospheric and atmospheric observations, weather monitoring, cloud tracking and space weather research." “The facility will enable scientists to observe and understand important processes in the atmosphere and near-Earth space environment, support improved weather prediction, space-weather assessment, communication and navigation studies and future space mission and application,” ISRO said on Thursday. The facility also has large-scale applications in flash-flood and urban-flood monitoring warnings in order to improve thunderstorm and lightning nowcasting, and guiding aviation services, while supporting both regional and national requirements.

ISRO announced on Thursday that the new facility is being set up as part of its Network for Space Object Tracking and Analysis (NETRA) and will contribute towards bolstering Space Situational Awareness. 

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is setting up a new facility in Chandrapur near Guwahati, Assam, to boost radar and satellite tracking capabilities. The foundation stone has been laid by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in the presence of ISRO chairman V Narayanan and other senior space scientists on September 21. ISRO announced on Thursday that the new facility is being set up as part of its Network for Space Object Tracking and Analysis (NETRA) and will contribute towards bolstering Space Situational Awareness. This awareness is essential in tracking space assets and protecting them from potential collisions with space debris. Also read: Eiffel Tower probe finds ‘no explicit request’ from BAPS delegation to remove female staff Guwahati-based centre The ISRO Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC) is overseeing the establishment of this facility, which will be equipped with advanced radar technology. Once it becomes operational, the Guwahati-based centre will enhance ionospheric and atmospheric observations, weather monitoring, cloud tracking and space weather research." “The facility will enable scientists to observe and understand important processes in the atmosphere and near-Earth space environment, support improved weather prediction, space-weather assessment, communication and navigation studies and future space mission and application,” ISRO said on Thursday. The facility also has large-scale applications in flash-flood and urban-flood monitoring warnings in order to improve thunderstorm and lightning nowcasting, and guiding aviation services, while supporting both regional and national requirements.

ISRO announced on Thursday that the new facility is being set up as part of its Network for Space Object Tracking and Analysis (NETRA) and will contribute towards bolstering Space Situational Awareness.&nbsp;

ISRO lays foundation for new space tracking facility near Assam's Guwahati

Guwahati police arrested a 26-year-old man after a 22-year-old female student was discovered dead in a homestay room in which they were staying, early on Saturday (September 26). Police said that they found no blood on the body or the floor. Meanwhile, the post-mortem examination report of the body is yet to come. After the arrest, the accused said that the girl hanged herself; however, police refused the man's claims and suspect the incident is a murder. Amid the investigation, two key angles have surfaced so far. The first piece indicates a family friend's claim about the death of the young woman, who'd informed her family that she'd stay the night at a friend's home, but she called her mother in the middle of the night and said, "They will kill me." The statement of the victim came before her phone was "probably snatched," though police claim this information remains to be investigated. Another piece related to the incident surfaced is the homestay caretaker's statement claiming that he heard a man shouting during the night, "asking someone to get up". Following her death, the incident triggered a protest over the allegation of "love jihad" as the woman was a Hindu and her boyfriend, who has been arrested, is a Muslim. The woman had been staying with Asif Ali, the man who has since been arrested, at a homestay in Garal on the outskirts of the city. Guwahati West Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Bolin Deori said that Ali had told investigators she died by suicide. "We don't believe his version. We need to continue our investigation," Deori said. "The inquiry is in the preliminary stage. And we suspect this as a kind of murder," he said, adding, "We haven't found blood on the body or the floor, and our investigation is on," NDTV quoted Deori as saying. Deori explained that police were alerted after the woman was brought to a local health facility unconscious. She was later referred to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), where doctors declared her dead. According to Deori, police are currently questioning the homestay's owner, caretakers, and other staff members.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorism-will-be-met-with-strong-response-pm-modi-recalls-2016-surgical-strikes-1790505825801">'Terrorism will be met with strong response': PM Modi recalls 2016 surgical strikes</a><h3>‘They will kill me, Mom’</h3>Speaking on behalf of the family outside the post-mortem hall at GMCH, a neighbour and friend of the woman's father said that the father had repeatedly tried calling him, but he had missed the calls while occupied with other work. When he called back, the father told him that his elder daughter had been murdered, prompting them to rush to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital together. "Later, we got information that the girl had left home yesterday evening around 5 pm. She told her family that she was going to a friend's home to have some snacks. Around 8 pm, her mother called her and asked where she was. She replied that they were having dinner and said that if she got late, she would stay at her friend's house for the night," he said, adding, "Again, around 10 pm, her mother called her. The girl said that she would stay there for the night." "At around 2 am, the girl called her mother and was crying. She said, 'They will kill me, Mom.' She repeated that they would kill her. After that, her phone was probably snatched," he said. "Her parents then went to the nearby Azara police station and informed the police about everything. At that time, the sub-inspector of the police station was on patrol duty. The police received information from a health facility that a girl had been admitted there," he added. "The police then suggested that we go to GMCH, as she had been referred there. We reached GMCH around 5 am, where the doctor declared her dead," he also said. "We strongly suspect that this is a murder case because the girl had called her mother and told her that 'they would kill her'. The police investigation is going on, and we hope that the truth will come out," he further said.&nbsp;

The woman had been staying with Asif Ali, the man who has since been arrested, at a homestay in Garal on the outskirts of the city. Guwahati West Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Bolin Deori said that Ali had told investigators she died by suicide.

Guwahati police arrested a 26-year-old man after a 22-year-old female student was discovered dead in a homestay room in which they were staying, early on Saturday (September 26). Police said that they found no blood on the body or the floor. Meanwhile, the post-mortem examination report of the body is yet to come. After the arrest, the accused said that the girl hanged herself; however, police refused the man's claims and suspect the incident is a murder. Amid the investigation, two key angles have surfaced so far. The first piece indicates a family friend's claim about the death of the young woman, who'd informed her family that she'd stay the night at a friend's home, but she called her mother in the middle of the night and said, "They will kill me." The statement of the victim came before her phone was "probably snatched," though police claim this information remains to be investigated. Another piece related to the incident surfaced is the homestay caretaker's statement claiming that he heard a man shouting during the night, "asking someone to get up". Following her death, the incident triggered a protest over the allegation of "love jihad" as the woman was a Hindu and her boyfriend, who has been arrested, is a Muslim. The woman had been staying with Asif Ali, the man who has since been arrested, at a homestay in Garal on the outskirts of the city. Guwahati West Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Bolin Deori said that Ali had told investigators she died by suicide. "We don't believe his version. We need to continue our investigation," Deori said. "The inquiry is in the preliminary stage. And we suspect this as a kind of murder," he said, adding, "We haven't found blood on the body or the floor, and our investigation is on," NDTV quoted Deori as saying. Deori explained that police were alerted after the woman was brought to a local health facility unconscious. She was later referred to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), where doctors declared her dead. According to Deori, police are currently questioning the homestay's owner, caretakers, and other staff members. Also read: 'Terrorism will be met with strong response': PM Modi recalls 2016 surgical strikes ‘They will kill me, Mom’ Speaking on behalf of the family outside the post-mortem hall at GMCH, a neighbour and friend of the woman's father said that the father had repeatedly tried calling him, but he had missed the calls while occupied with other work. When he called back, the father told him that his elder daughter had been murdered, prompting them to rush to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital together. "Later, we got information that the girl had left home yesterday evening around 5 pm. She told her family that she was going to a friend's home to have some snacks. Around 8 pm, her mother called her and asked where she was. She replied that they were having dinner and said that if she got late, she would stay at her friend's house for the night," he said, adding, "Again, around 10 pm, her mother called her. The girl said that she would stay there for the night." "At around 2 am, the girl called her mother and was crying. She said, 'They will kill me, Mom.' She repeated that they would kill her. After that, her phone was probably snatched," he said. "Her parents then went to the nearby Azara police station and informed the police about everything. At that time, the sub-inspector of the police station was on patrol duty. The police received information from a health facility that a girl had been admitted there," he added. "The police then suggested that we go to GMCH, as she had been referred there. We reached GMCH around 5 am, where the doctor declared her dead," he also said. "We strongly suspect that this is a murder case because the girl had called her mother and told her that 'they would kill her'. The police investigation is going on, and we hope that the truth will come out," he further said.

The woman had been staying with Asif Ali, the man who has since been arrested, at a homestay in Garal on the outskirts of the city. Guwahati West Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Bolin Deori said that Ali had told investigators she died by suicide.

Man arrested after his 22-year-old girlfriend dies at homestay in Guwahati; police suspect murder over suicide claim

A man in Guwahati, Assam, arrested for reportedly beheading his wife and placing her severed head in a refrigerator, lost his life after jumping from a moving police vehicle, officials said. The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday while police were escorting the 30-year-old accused, identified as Ramanuj Goswami, back to Hatigaon Police Station after medical examinations at Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH). Hatigaon Police confirmed that Goswami suddenly attacked the cops and jumped off from the moving vehicle near the Narakasur Pahar area. Following his jump, he fell into a gorge and experienced severe injuries. However, police rescued him from the gorge and took him to GMCH, where doctors pronounced him dead.<h3>Accused arrested for killing his wife</h3>Goswami's arrest came after he reportedly killed his 25-year-old wife Riya Talukdar, at their Guwahati flat on September 3. After the arrest, Goswami's claimed that he suspected his wife of cheating on him. His crime surfaced after neighbours reported a foul smell from the flat to the police.&nbsp;In response, police subsequently recovered his wife's chopped head and fingers from a black polythene bag kept inside the refrigerator. Goswami was arrested under Sections 103(1) (murder) and 238 (causing disappearance of evidence) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). He had turned himself in to the police on September 6 and was placed in seven-day police custody. When police took him to the crime scene on September 8, Goswami reportedly displayed no remorse over the killing, stating he felt no regret or need to apologise. He is also alleged to have threatened to kill a man he described as his wife's "sugar daddy" should he ever be released from jail.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/plane-carrying-prominent-figure-crashes-at-libya-s-misrata-airport-airspace-shut-1789379608866">Plane carrying prominent figure crashes at Libya’s Misrata airport: Report</a> Investigators said they had recovered a blood-stained machete believed to be the murder weapon. Officials further noted that Goswami admitted to being intoxicated at the time of the crime, and empty liquor bottles were found inside the flat. Riya's family has claimed that Goswami had a history of drug addiction, undisclosed medical conditions, and a prior arrest in a 2019 financial fraud case. Police said these claims were currently under investigation.

Hatigaon Police confirmed that Goswami suddenly attacked the cops and jumped off from the moving vehicle near the Narakasur Pahar area, falling into a gorge. He was rushed to GMCH, where doctors pronounced him dead.

A man in Guwahati, Assam, arrested for reportedly beheading his wife and placing her severed head in a refrigerator, lost his life after jumping from a moving police vehicle, officials said. The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday while police were escorting the 30-year-old accused, identified as Ramanuj Goswami, back to Hatigaon Police Station after medical examinations at Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH). Hatigaon Police confirmed that Goswami suddenly attacked the cops and jumped off from the moving vehicle near the Narakasur Pahar area. Following his jump, he fell into a gorge and experienced severe injuries. However, police rescued him from the gorge and took him to GMCH, where doctors pronounced him dead. Accused arrested for killing his wife Goswami's arrest came after he reportedly killed his 25-year-old wife Riya Talukdar, at their Guwahati flat on September 3. After the arrest, Goswami's claimed that he suspected his wife of cheating on him. His crime surfaced after neighbours reported a foul smell from the flat to the police. In response, police subsequently recovered his wife's chopped head and fingers from a black polythene bag kept inside the refrigerator. Goswami was arrested under Sections 103(1) (murder) and 238 (causing disappearance of evidence) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). He had turned himself in to the police on September 6 and was placed in seven-day police custody. When police took him to the crime scene on September 8, Goswami reportedly displayed no remorse over the killing, stating he felt no regret or need to apologise. He is also alleged to have threatened to kill a man he described as his wife's "sugar daddy" should he ever be released from jail. Also read: Plane carrying prominent figure crashes at Libya’s Misrata airport: Report Investigators said they had recovered a blood-stained machete believed to be the murder weapon. Officials further noted that Goswami admitted to being intoxicated at the time of the crime, and empty liquor bottles were found inside the flat. Riya's family has claimed that Goswami had a history of drug addiction, undisclosed medical conditions, and a prior arrest in a 2019 financial fraud case. Police said these claims were currently under investigation.

Hatigaon Police confirmed that Goswami suddenly attacked the cops and jumped off from the moving vehicle near the Narakasur Pahar area, falling into a gorge. He was rushed to GMCH, where doctors pronounced him dead.

Assam man who beheaded wife, hid head in fridge, dies after jumping from police car

Pankaj Tripathi-starrer Ohh My Dog was released in cinemas on August 7, 2026. The movie has a special connection with Assam as it features a major story based in the state and has been filmed in Dibrugarh, and highlights local cultural traditions and regional actors while spotlighting human-animal relationships. The film has been written and directed by Amit Rai and follows two separate adventures unfolding on the same day- one in Dibrugarh, Assam and the other in Patna, Bihar.<h2>Assam Takes Center Stage in Mainstream Hindi Cinema</h2>In the Assam storyline, a clever schoolboy named Apu goes on a mission to find his missing pet dog, Momo. Filmed extensively across Dibrugarh, the movie offers audiences an authentic view of the region. It showcases local cultural elements, including Gayan-Bayan—a traditional performance from Assam’s centuries-old Vaishnavite heritage—and features several artists from the region.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/laapataa-ladies-actor-satendra-soni-files-fir-over-non-payment-issue-against-filmmaker-pushpendra-singh-aicwa-extends-support-1787372120211">Laapataa Ladies actor Satendra Soni files FIR over non-payment issue; AICWA extends support</a><h2>Pacing Issues and Padded Scenes</h2>The film’s universal theme has won hearts of the audience. However, critics have also stated that the movie struggles with its execution and pacing. Rather than supporting each other, the back-and-forth edits between the Assam and Bihar storylines frequently disrupt the flow of both narratives. The film often feels like two separate movies running side-by-side due to extra reaction shots, drawn-out chases, and repeated scenes.<h2>Highlighting Local Visibility and Animal Welfare</h2>Despite these structural flaws, Ohh My Dog remains significant for providing visibility to Assam on a national platform. By using Dibrugarh as a primary setting, featuring local actors, and showcasing Assamese culture, the film builds a meaningful bridge between regional talent and mainstream Bollywood, which remains a rarity in Hindi cinema. &nbsp;At its core, the movie combines an entertaining adventure with a quiet plea for audiences to show compassion toward stray animals in urban communities.

Written and directed by Amit Rai, the Bollywood film Ohh My Dog released in cinemas on August 7, 2026. The movie features a major Assam-based storyline filmed in Dibrugarh, which is a refreshing change for a Hindi commercial film. 

Pankaj Tripathi-starrer Ohh My Dog was released in cinemas on August 7, 2026. The movie has a special connection with Assam as it features a major story based in the state and has been filmed in Dibrugarh, and highlights local cultural traditions and regional actors while spotlighting human-animal relationships. The film has been written and directed by Amit Rai and follows two separate adventures unfolding on the same day- one in Dibrugarh, Assam and the other in Patna, Bihar. Assam Takes Center Stage in Mainstream Hindi Cinema In the Assam storyline, a clever schoolboy named Apu goes on a mission to find his missing pet dog, Momo. Filmed extensively across Dibrugarh, the movie offers audiences an authentic view of the region. It showcases local cultural elements, including Gayan-Bayan—a traditional performance from Assam’s centuries-old Vaishnavite heritage—and features several artists from the region. Also read: Laapataa Ladies actor Satendra Soni files FIR over non-payment issue; AICWA extends support Pacing Issues and Padded Scenes The film’s universal theme has won hearts of the audience. However, critics have also stated that the movie struggles with its execution and pacing. Rather than supporting each other, the back-and-forth edits between the Assam and Bihar storylines frequently disrupt the flow of both narratives. The film often feels like two separate movies running side-by-side due to extra reaction shots, drawn-out chases, and repeated scenes. Highlighting Local Visibility and Animal Welfare Despite these structural flaws, Ohh My Dog remains significant for providing visibility to Assam on a national platform. By using Dibrugarh as a primary setting, featuring local actors, and showcasing Assamese culture, the film builds a meaningful bridge between regional talent and mainstream Bollywood, which remains a rarity in Hindi cinema. At its core, the movie combines an entertaining adventure with a quiet plea for audiences to show compassion toward stray animals in urban communities.

Written and directed by Amit Rai, the Bollywood film Ohh My Dog released in cinemas on August 7, 2026. The movie features a major Assam-based storyline filmed in Dibrugarh, which is a refreshing change for a Hindi commercial film.&nbsp;

Mainstream Bollywood meets Assam: Ohh My Dog brings local flavour to the big screen

A 35-year-old man from the Sribhumi district of Assam, who has been missing since Thursday (August 27), has been found in Bangladesh by the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB). The person has been identified as Balai Namasudra, a resident of Gobindapur village in Sribhumi district. After the discovery, BGB claimed that Namasudra was smuggling drugs and arms into Bangladesh. Balai's wife, Mamata Namasudra, stated that he would regularly go fishing near the border pillar every day, and on Thursday morning, at around 5:30 am, he had gone to collect the fish in the net he had set up the previous evening. She further stated that later that day, an individual from Bangladesh called her on WhatsApp and requested photocopies of Balai's voter ID, Aadhaar card and passport, if possible. "The person told me that Balai has been caught in Bangladesh for entering there illegally and he will be sent back after basic documentation, for which these documents were important, and I shared them through WhatsApp," she said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-hindu-should-think-there-should-be-no-muslim-says-rss-chief-mohan-bhagwat-1788028070332">'No Hindu should think there should be no Muslim', says RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat</a><h3>BGB claims to have found weapons</h3>The BGB claimed that the Indian resident was caught at the Kumarshail border area in Barlekha upazila of Moulvibazar on August 27. During a special BGB operation, they found a foreign-made pistol, two rounds of .22-bore ammunition and 500 Yaba tablets from him. The additional superintendent of police (crime), Sribhumi, Trinayan Bhuyan, said on Saturday that the police, after receiving a missing complaint, reached the area and started investigating. However, since it was outside the fencing, they co-ordinated with the Border Security Force (BSF). Locals in Gobindapur village said that nearly 8 years back, another resident from the village, Binanda Namasudra, was similarly detained by the BGB and spent one year in Bangladesh before he was released.

The BGB claimed that the Indian resident was caught at the Kumarshail border area in Barlekha upazila of Moulvibazar on August 27. They found a foreign-made pistol, two rounds of .22-bore ammunition and 500 Yaba tablets from him.

A 35-year-old man from the Sribhumi district of Assam, who has been missing since Thursday (August 27), has been found in Bangladesh by the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB). The person has been identified as Balai Namasudra, a resident of Gobindapur village in Sribhumi district. After the discovery, BGB claimed that Namasudra was smuggling drugs and arms into Bangladesh. Balai's wife, Mamata Namasudra, stated that he would regularly go fishing near the border pillar every day, and on Thursday morning, at around 5:30 am, he had gone to collect the fish in the net he had set up the previous evening. She further stated that later that day, an individual from Bangladesh called her on WhatsApp and requested photocopies of Balai's voter ID, Aadhaar card and passport, if possible. "The person told me that Balai has been caught in Bangladesh for entering there illegally and he will be sent back after basic documentation, for which these documents were important, and I shared them through WhatsApp," she said. Also read: 'No Hindu should think there should be no Muslim', says RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat BGB claims to have found weapons The BGB claimed that the Indian resident was caught at the Kumarshail border area in Barlekha upazila of Moulvibazar on August 27. During a special BGB operation, they found a foreign-made pistol, two rounds of .22-bore ammunition and 500 Yaba tablets from him. The additional superintendent of police (crime), Sribhumi, Trinayan Bhuyan, said on Saturday that the police, after receiving a missing complaint, reached the area and started investigating. However, since it was outside the fencing, they co-ordinated with the Border Security Force (BSF). Locals in Gobindapur village said that nearly 8 years back, another resident from the village, Binanda Namasudra, was similarly detained by the BGB and spent one year in Bangladesh before he was released.

The BGB claimed that the Indian resident was caught at the Kumarshail border area in Barlekha upazila of Moulvibazar on August 27. They found a foreign-made pistol, two rounds of .22-bore ammunition and 500 Yaba tablets from him.

Missing Assam man detained in Bangladesh, accused of illegal entry and drug smuggling

India continues to battle relentless monsoon rains as severe flooding disrupts normal life across several states. In Assam, the flood death toll has risen to 66, with more than 6.5 lakh people affected across 10 districts. Hundreds of villages remain submerged, thousands of hectares of farmland have been damaged, and rescue operations are continuing with the Indian Air Force airlifting and airdropping relief supplies.

Gujarat has also witnessed widespread flooding after receiving significantly higher rainfall than last year. More than 42,000 people have been shifted to safer locations as authorities remain on high alert. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has directed officials to begin sanitation drives and damage assessments as floodwaters recede.

Israeli Settler Violence Escalates in West Bank | Mosques Burned, Dozens Arrested | West Asia Crisis

Fossilised leaves surfaced from the Makum Coalfield of Assam have disclosed that the kewra (kevda) plant—best known for its fragrant essence used in sweets, perfumes, traditional medicine and temple rituals- has survived for at least 24 million years on the Indian subcontinent. The discovery has indicated that this plant is far older than human civilisation and predates the rise of the Himalayas. The discovery was published in the international journal Geobios by researchers identified as Harshita Bhatia and Gaurav Srivastava of the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences (BSIP), Lucknow, an autonomous institute that falls under the Department of Science and Technology (DST).&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/spacex-aborts-starship-launch-seconds-before-liftoff-after-engine-failure-elon-musk-says-next-attempt-next-week-1784275988606">SpaceX aborts Starship launch seconds before liftoff after engine failure; Elon Musk says next attempt next week</a><h3>Fossils belong to screw-pine family</h3>The researchers recovered well-preserved fossil leaves from the Tikak Parbat Formation in the Makum Coalfield of Tinsukia district. Further study related to morphological and microscopic features indicated that the fossils belong to the Pandanaceae, or screw-pine family, to which the modern kewra (Pandanus) belongs. Scientists found that the fossil leaves share the same key features as modern kewra (Pandanus) plants, including long sword-shaped leaves, parallel veins, an M-shaped cross-section and sharp prickles along the edges, showing the species has changed very little over millions of years. The discovery bridges a major gap in the evolutionary history of the screw-pine family by linking older fossils from Europe and North America with younger ones from Asia and Australia. Researchers say the findings highlight the Indian subcontinent as a vital refuge for ancient tropical plants during global climate shifts. Although Pandanus is now restricted to tropical regions, its ancestors were once widespread across the Northern Hemisphere. “The Makum fossils suggest Paleogene persistence and ecological continuity of Pandanaceae across the paleotropics,” the researchers noted. It further added that the discovery collides with the evolutionary diversification of modern Pandanus species during the late Eocene-Oligocene. In addition, the study also indicated that Assam was covered by warm, humid forests, freshwater swamps and river ecosystems around 24 million years ago, providing ideal conditions for screw-pines. Researchers say the discovery further establishes the Makum Coalfield as one of India's richest fossil sites, with previous finds of palms, mangroves and rainforest plants offering valuable insights into the evolution of Northeast India's forests, biodiversity and ancient climate.

Scientists found that the fossil leaves share the same key features as modern kewra (Pandanus) plants, including long sword-shaped leaves, parallel veins, an M-shaped cross-section and sharp prickles along the edges.

Fossilised leaves surfaced from the Makum Coalfield of Assam have disclosed that the kewra (kevda) plant—best known for its fragrant essence used in sweets, perfumes, traditional medicine and temple rituals- has survived for at least 24 million years on the Indian subcontinent. The discovery has indicated that this plant is far older than human civilisation and predates the rise of the Himalayas. The discovery was published in the international journal Geobios by researchers identified as Harshita Bhatia and Gaurav Srivastava of the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences (BSIP), Lucknow, an autonomous institute that falls under the Department of Science and Technology (DST). Also read: SpaceX aborts Starship launch seconds before liftoff after engine failure; Elon Musk says next attempt next week Fossils belong to screw-pine family The researchers recovered well-preserved fossil leaves from the Tikak Parbat Formation in the Makum Coalfield of Tinsukia district. Further study related to morphological and microscopic features indicated that the fossils belong to the Pandanaceae, or screw-pine family, to which the modern kewra (Pandanus) belongs. Scientists found that the fossil leaves share the same key features as modern kewra (Pandanus) plants, including long sword-shaped leaves, parallel veins, an M-shaped cross-section and sharp prickles along the edges, showing the species has changed very little over millions of years. The discovery bridges a major gap in the evolutionary history of the screw-pine family by linking older fossils from Europe and North America with younger ones from Asia and Australia. Researchers say the findings highlight the Indian subcontinent as a vital refuge for ancient tropical plants during global climate shifts. Although Pandanus is now restricted to tropical regions, its ancestors were once widespread across the Northern Hemisphere. “The Makum fossils suggest Paleogene persistence and ecological continuity of Pandanaceae across the paleotropics,” the researchers noted. It further added that the discovery collides with the evolutionary diversification of modern Pandanus species during the late Eocene-Oligocene. In addition, the study also indicated that Assam was covered by warm, humid forests, freshwater swamps and river ecosystems around 24 million years ago, providing ideal conditions for screw-pines. Researchers say the discovery further establishes the Makum Coalfield as one of India's richest fossil sites, with previous finds of palms, mangroves and rainforest plants offering valuable insights into the evolution of Northeast India's forests, biodiversity and ancient climate.

Scientists found that the fossil leaves share the same key features as modern kewra (Pandanus) plants, including long sword-shaped leaves, parallel veins, an M-shaped cross-section and sharp prickles along the edges.

Older than Himalayas: 85mn-year-old Kewra plant reached India 24mn years ago, fossil discovery in Assam shows

Himanta Biswa Sarma has taken oath as the Chief Minister of Assam for the second consecutive term on Tuesday (May 12, 2026) at Veterinary College ground in Khanapara, Guwahati. This marks the beginning of the BJP-led NDA government for the third straight tenure in the state. The swearing-in ceremony was held in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union ministers and chief ministers from several NDA-ruled states.&nbsp;The oath was administered by Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya at 11.40 am. Alongside Sarma, four ministers were also sworn-in include BJP leaders Ajanta Neog and Rameswar Teli, Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) leader Atul Bora and Bodoland People’s Front (BPF) leader Charan Boro. The development came after the NDA clinched a landslide victory in the Assam Assembly elections, winning 102 seats in the 126-member House. The BJP alone secured 82 seats, while alliance partners AGP and BPF won 10 seats each.<h3>Third consecutive term of the NDA government</h3>This marks the third straight NDA government in Assam since the BJP-led alliance first assumed power in 2016 under the leadership of now Union minister Sarbananda Sonowal. Himanta Biswa Sarma has also become the first non-Congress leader in the state to hold the chief minister’s post for two consecutive terms.&nbsp;Before the swearing-in ceremony, Union minister Sarbananda Sonowal described the occasion as a “great day for the people of Assam” and expressed gratitude to voters for once again placing their trust in the NDA for a third successive term. “With the support of the people of Assam, NDA for the third term is going to form the government under the leadership of CM Himanta Biswa Sarma. This is a great day, and we are really thankful to the people of Assam," Sonowal said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/use-public-transport-adopt-wfh-pm-modi-reiterates-austerity-appeal-amid-oil-crisis-1778518993065">Use public transport, adopt WFH: PM Modi reiterates austerity appeal amid oil crisis</a>

Himanta Biswa Sarma has taken oath as the Chief Minister of Assam for the second consecutive term on Tuesday (May 12, 2026) at Veterinary College ground in Khanapara, Guwahati.

Himanta Biswa Sarma has taken oath as the Chief Minister of Assam for the second consecutive term on Tuesday (May 12, 2026) at Veterinary College ground in Khanapara, Guwahati. This marks the beginning of the BJP-led NDA government for the third straight tenure in the state. The swearing-in ceremony was held in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union ministers and chief ministers from several NDA-ruled states. The oath was administered by Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya at 11.40 am. Alongside Sarma, four ministers were also sworn-in include BJP leaders Ajanta Neog and Rameswar Teli, Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) leader Atul Bora and Bodoland People’s Front (BPF) leader Charan Boro. The development came after the NDA clinched a landslide victory in the Assam Assembly elections, winning 102 seats in the 126-member House. The BJP alone secured 82 seats, while alliance partners AGP and BPF won 10 seats each. Third consecutive term of the NDA government This marks the third straight NDA government in Assam since the BJP-led alliance first assumed power in 2016 under the leadership of now Union minister Sarbananda Sonowal. Himanta Biswa Sarma has also become the first non-Congress leader in the state to hold the chief minister’s post for two consecutive terms. Before the swearing-in ceremony, Union minister Sarbananda Sonowal described the occasion as a “great day for the people of Assam” and expressed gratitude to voters for once again placing their trust in the NDA for a third successive term. “With the support of the people of Assam, NDA for the third term is going to form the government under the leadership of CM Himanta Biswa Sarma. This is a great day, and we are really thankful to the people of Assam," Sonowal said. Also read: Use public transport, adopt WFH: PM Modi reiterates austerity appeal amid oil crisis

Himanta Biswa Sarma has taken oath as the Chief Minister of Assam for the second consecutive term on Tuesday (May 12, 2026) at Veterinary College ground in Khanapara, Guwahati.

Himanta Biswa Sarma takes oath as Assam's CM for 2nd consecutive term

Two persons were killed in mob violence in Assam’s Kokrajhar district, leading to arson and clashes allegedly between the Bodos and Adivasis following which the Army has been deployed in sensitive areas, officials said on Wednesday. The army personnel conducted patrolling with the district administration in the affected areas of Karigaon and its nearby locations on Tuesday night, reported news agency PTI, citing a defence spokesperson.A total of four Army columns are currently in the district, the spokesperson added.&nbsp;Tight security measures have been put in place in Kokrajhar and neighbouring Chirang district, and the situation is under control, officials said.&nbsp;Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had said arrangements were in place to deploy the Army, while the Rapid Action Force (RAF) was already on the ground, after the mob violence and clashes.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-globalisation-failed-the-west-and-us-says-us-commerce-secretary-howard-lutnick-at-davos-2026-1768990421968">‘Globalisation failed the West and US’: says US commerce secretary Howard Lutnick at Davos 2026</a>&nbsp;On Monday night, a vehicle with three Bodos on board hit two Adivasi persons at Mansingh Road under Karigaon outpost, a home department official said.&nbsp;The three Bodos were reportedly beaten up by neighbouring Adivasi villagers, and the vehicle was torched. One person died then, while another succumbed to injuries on Tuesday, he said, adding, three other injured were undergoing treatment in hospital.&nbsp;On Tuesday, the situation flared up with Bodo and Adivasi communities blocking the National Highway adjacent to the Karigaon outpost, burning tyres, setting ablaze a government office and attacking the Karigaon police outpost, the official said.&nbsp;The police baton-charged the protesters and fired tear gas shells to disperse the crowd, in which several people, including a few police personnel, were injured, he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-europe-prefers-dialogue-and-solutions-but-fully-prepared-to-act-if-necessary-says-von-der-leyen-at-davos-2026-1768995043904">‘Europe prefers dialogue and solutions, but fully prepared to act if necessary,’ says Von der Leyen at Davos 2026</a>&nbsp;The Kokrajhar district administration has set up two relief camps at Karigaon High School and Gwajanpuri Amanpara High School after several villagers from Karigaon fled fearing attacks.&nbsp;Prohibitory orders have been imposed in the entire Kokrajhar district under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, the official said.&nbsp;The home department has suspended internet and mobile data services in Kokrajhar and Chirang districts as a precautionary measure.&nbsp;The police said that the victims were associated with a road construction project and were returning in a vehicle after a site inspection.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sikhna Jwhwlao Bismit, alias Raja, had died on the spot, while Sunil Murmu died of his injuries later.

A vehicle with three Bodos on board hit two Adivasi persons at Mansingh Road under Karigaon outpost on Monday night, a home department official said. The three Bodos were reportedly beaten up by people from the neighbouring Adivasi villagers, and the vehicle was set ablaze.

Two persons were killed in mob violence in Assam’s Kokrajhar district, leading to arson and clashes allegedly between the Bodos and Adivasis following which the Army has been deployed in sensitive areas, officials said on Wednesday. The army personnel conducted patrolling with the district administration in the affected areas of Karigaon and its nearby locations on Tuesday night, reported news agency PTI, citing a defence spokesperson. A total of four Army columns are currently in the district, the spokesperson added. Tight security measures have been put in place in Kokrajhar and neighbouring Chirang district, and the situation is under control, officials said. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had said arrangements were in place to deploy the Army, while the Rapid Action Force (RAF) was already on the ground, after the mob violence and clashes. Also Read: ‘Globalisation failed the West and US’: says US commerce secretary Howard Lutnick at Davos 2026 On Monday night, a vehicle with three Bodos on board hit two Adivasi persons at Mansingh Road under Karigaon outpost, a home department official said. The three Bodos were reportedly beaten up by neighbouring Adivasi villagers, and the vehicle was torched. One person died then, while another succumbed to injuries on Tuesday, he said, adding, three other injured were undergoing treatment in hospital. On Tuesday, the situation flared up with Bodo and Adivasi communities blocking the National Highway adjacent to the Karigaon outpost, burning tyres, setting ablaze a government office and attacking the Karigaon police outpost, the official said. The police baton-charged the protesters and fired tear gas shells to disperse the crowd, in which several people, including a few police personnel, were injured, he said. Also Read: ‘Europe prefers dialogue and solutions, but fully prepared to act if necessary,’ says Von der Leyen at Davos 2026 The Kokrajhar district administration has set up two relief camps at Karigaon High School and Gwajanpuri Amanpara High School after several villagers from Karigaon fled fearing attacks. Prohibitory orders have been imposed in the entire Kokrajhar district under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, the official said. The home department has suspended internet and mobile data services in Kokrajhar and Chirang districts as a precautionary measure. The police said that the victims were associated with a road construction project and were returning in a vehicle after a site inspection. Sikhna Jwhwlao Bismit, alias Raja, had died on the spot, while Sunil Murmu died of his injuries later.

A vehicle with three Bodos on board hit two Adivasi persons at Mansingh Road under the Karigaon outpost on Monday night, a home department official said. The three Bodos were reportedly beaten up by people from the neighbouring Adivasi villagers, and the vehicle was set ablaze.

Two killed in mob violence in Assam’s Kokrajhar, Army deployed after clashes break out

Days after a couple in Karbi Anglong district of India's Assam was burnt alive by a group of villagers on the suspicion of practising witchcraft, 18 people have been arrested including four women, for their alleged involvement in the killing. Akhilesh Kumar Singh, IGP (Law &amp; Order) of the Assam Police confirming the arrest said, "We can’t tolerate this type of heinous crime".&nbsp;Speaking to the media after the arrest Singh said, “I inspected the site where the incident took place. We can’t tolerate this type of heinous crime. After collecting evidence, we have arrested 18 people so far. Scientific investigation will be conducted. A few months back, the court sentenced 23 people to life imprisonment in Sivasagar in connection with a witch-hunting case. Justice will be given here also."&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-air-quality-improves-but-cold-wave-condition-to-hit-city-for-next-3-days-1767416408618">Delhi air quality improves but cold wave condition to hit city for next 3 days</a>&nbsp;On December 30 at about 8:25 pm, the Anglong district police received information through phone that a couple has been killed by villagers on suspicion of practising witchcraft, after which the &nbsp;Hawraghat police station immediately sprang to action.&nbsp;“On receipt of the information, the police team immediately proceeded to the spot. On arrival, it was found that the house of Gardi Beruwa, resident of 1 No. Beloguri Munda Gaon was in a vandalised condition, and fire was burning in the front yard of the house. On enquiry, it was learnt that Gardi Beruwa (aged about 46 years) and his wife Mira Beruwa were allegedly murdered by villagers on suspicion of witch-hunting and their bodies were burnt to ashes in the front yard of their house,” a senior police official said.&nbsp;A suo-motu case has been registered by the police under the Assam Witch Hunting (Prohibition, Prevention and Protection) Act and relevant Sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) have also been invoked.

On December 30 at about 8:25 pm, the Anglong district police received information through phone that a couple has been killed by villagers on suspicion of practising witchcraft.

Days after a couple in Karbi Anglong district of India's Assam was burnt alive by a group of villagers on the suspicion of practising witchcraft, 18 people have been arrested including four women, for their alleged involvement in the killing. Akhilesh Kumar Singh, IGP (Law & Order) of the Assam Police confirming the arrest said, "We can’t tolerate this type of heinous crime". Speaking to the media after the arrest Singh said, “I inspected the site where the incident took place. We can’t tolerate this type of heinous crime. After collecting evidence, we have arrested 18 people so far. Scientific investigation will be conducted. A few months back, the court sentenced 23 people to life imprisonment in Sivasagar in connection with a witch-hunting case. Justice will be given here also." ALSO READ: Delhi air quality improves but cold wave condition to hit city for next 3 days On December 30 at about 8:25 pm, the Anglong district police received information through phone that a couple has been killed by villagers on suspicion of practising witchcraft, after which the Hawraghat police station immediately sprang to action. “On receipt of the information, the police team immediately proceeded to the spot. On arrival, it was found that the house of Gardi Beruwa, resident of 1 No. Beloguri Munda Gaon was in a vandalised condition, and fire was burning in the front yard of the house. On enquiry, it was learnt that Gardi Beruwa (aged about 46 years) and his wife Mira Beruwa were allegedly murdered by villagers on suspicion of witch-hunting and their bodies were burnt to ashes in the front yard of their house,” a senior police official said. A suo-motu case has been registered by the police under the Assam Witch Hunting (Prohibition, Prevention and Protection) Act and relevant Sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) have also been invoked.

On December 30 at about 8:25 pm, the Anglong district police received information through phone that a couple has been killed by villagers on suspicion of practising witchcraft.

Assam witchcraft case: 18 arrested as suspects after couple burnt alive, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita invoked

Just days after the banned group, United Liberation Front of Asom (Independent) (ULFA(I)), claimed responsibility for placing bombs at 24 different locations in the northeastern Indian state of Assam on Independence Day, the state's Director General of Police (DGP), G P Singh, announced a ₹5 lakh ($6,000) reward for any information that could help identify those responsible for making, transporting, and placing the explosives.

DGP Singh said, "We are offering a cash reward of up to ₹5 lakhs ($6,000) for any credible information regarding those who made, transported, and planted these IED-like devices."

ULFA (I) stated that the explosions were planned for Thursday (August 15) between 6:00 am&nbsp;and 12:00 pm (local time), but due to a "technical failure," the bombs did not detonate. The group has now requested public assistance in safely defusing the explosives.

Watch |&nbsp;Kolkata Hospital Horror: Doctors' nationwide protests show no sign of bating

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On Friday (August 16), authorities discovered two more 'IED-like devices' in Guwahati, bringing the total number of 'bomb-like substances' seized across the state in the past 24 hours to 10, according to officials.

A minor&nbsp;from Lakhimpur was taken into custody&nbsp;for questioning. Authorities carried out searches in various locations to find explosives, including the Panitola residence in the Tinsukia district, belonging to Anup Chetia, a former self-proclaimed general secretary of the group who signed a peace agreement with the government last year, according to officials.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-doctors-launch-24-hour-services-shutdown-over-kolkata-horror-here-are-their-key-demands-750826">Indian doctors launch 24-hour services shutdown over Kolkata horror</a>

"We held discussions with our officers of Guwahati city, Special Branch, CID and others. Discussions were on the line of investigation to be followed, a plan of action was prepared and which agencies would help in which way and responsibilities entrusted," DGP Singh said.

"We are 100 per cent sure that the case will be cracked. We want to assure the public that no one will be allowed to disrupt peace," he&nbsp;added.

He said that four cases have been filed in Guwahati, with investigators working alongside a Special Investigation Team (SIT) under the guidance of the city police commissioner.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shopping-malls-in-indias-ncr-region-receive-bomb-threats-750906">Shopping malls in India's Gurugram, Noida receive bomb threats</a>

In addition to Guwahati, the districts where the group claimed to have placed bombs include Sivasagar, Lakhimpur, Nagaon, Nalbari, Dibrugarh, Tamulpur, Tinsukia, and Golaghat.

In Guwahati, four "IED-like devices" were found, while two were recovered in both Sivasagar and Lakhimpur, and one each in Nagaon and Nalbari.

(With inputs from agencies)

Just days after the banned group, United Liberation Front of Asom (Independent) (ULFA(I)), claimed responsibility for placing bombs at 24 different locations in the northeastern Indian state of Assam on Independence Day, the state's Director General of Police (DGP), G P Singh, announced a ₹5 lakh ($6,000) reward for any information that could help identify those responsible for making, transporting, and placing the explosives.

Just days after the banned group, United Liberation Front of Asom (Independent) (ULFA(I)), claimed responsibility for placing bombs at 24 different locations in the northeastern Indian state of Assam on Independence Day, the state's Director General of Police (DGP), G P Singh, announced a ₹5 lakh ($6,000) reward for any information that could help identify those responsible for making, transporting, and placing the explosives. DGP Singh said, "We are offering a cash reward of up to ₹5 lakhs ($6,000) for any credible information regarding those who made, transported, and planted these IED-like devices." ULFA (I) stated that the explosions were planned for Thursday (August 15) between 6:00 am and 12:00 pm (local time), but due to a "technical failure," the bombs did not detonate. The group has now requested public assistance in safely defusing the explosives. Watch | Kolkata Hospital Horror: Doctors' nationwide protests show no sign of bating × On Friday (August 16), authorities discovered two more 'IED-like devices' in Guwahati, bringing the total number of 'bomb-like substances' seized across the state in the past 24 hours to 10, according to officials. A minor from Lakhimpur was taken into custody for questioning. Authorities carried out searches in various locations to find explosives, including the Panitola residence in the Tinsukia district, belonging to Anup Chetia, a former self-proclaimed general secretary of the group who signed a peace agreement with the government last year, according to officials. Also read: Indian doctors launch 24-hour services shutdown over Kolkata horror "We held discussions with our officers of Guwahati city, Special Branch, CID and others. Discussions were on the line of investigation to be followed, a plan of action was prepared and which agencies would help in which way and responsibilities entrusted," DGP Singh said. "We are 100 per cent sure that the case will be cracked. We want to assure the public that no one will be allowed to disrupt peace," he added. He said that four cases have been filed in Guwahati, with investigators working alongside a Special Investigation Team (SIT) under the guidance of the city police commissioner. Also read: Shopping malls in India's Gurugram, Noida receive bomb threats In addition to Guwahati, the districts where the group claimed to have placed bombs include Sivasagar, Lakhimpur, Nagaon, Nalbari, Dibrugarh, Tamulpur, Tinsukia, and Golaghat. In Guwahati, four "IED-like devices" were found, while two were recovered in both Sivasagar and Lakhimpur, and one each in Nagaon and Nalbari. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Assam police offer $6,000 reward after ULFA(I) admits to placing 'IED-like devices' across state

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India: Assam police offer $6,000 reward after ULFA(I) admits to placing 'IED-like devices' across state