Latest news with #Nagas
The Hindu
5 hours ago
- Politics
- The Hindu
Assam begins eviction drive to clear encroached forest land on Nagaland boundary
The Assam government has launched an eviction drive to clear 11,000 bighas of encroached forest land in Uriamghat area of Golaghat district. The Rengma Reserve Forest, where the first phase of the drive was carried out on Tuesday (July 29, 2025), shares a boundary with Nagaland. A large contingent of police and Assam Forest Protection Force personnel, along with more than 150 excavators, were deployed in the area, anticipating violence. Officials said the exercise passed off peacefully, as a majority of the illegal settlers had vacated the area after receiving notices from the government Inspector-General of Police (Law and Order) Akhilesh Kumar Singh, who was at the site, told presspersons that shops and houses built in the reserve forest areas were demolished. 'We provided adequate police protection, and the locals are supporting the exercise. The law and order situation is under control,' he said. 'More than 20% cleared' A Forest Department official in the district said more than 20% of the reserve forest has been cleared of encroachment so far. 'The encroachers started leaving a few days ago when it was conveyed to them that they cannot stay inside the reserve forest any longer,' he said. Some 15,000 people, mostly migrant Muslims, were living in the reserve forest after turning vast swathes of the land into betel nut plantations. The eviction drive followed Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's visit to Uriamghat recently. 'People of Assam are victims of the mass-scale encroachment, demographic alteration, and violence, which is caused by illegal settlers. They are firmly behind our Govt in our crackdown against encroachment and realise the need to reclaim what's truly ours,' he posted on social media platform X. The security forces in Assam have been wary of a bid by extremists in Nagaland to take over the cleared forest, claiming it to be an ancestral Naga area. Assam and Nagaland have a decades-old boundary dispute that has claimed more than 150 lives. 'Move to grab land of Nagas' On Monday, the Niki Sumi faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland stated that the eviction drive was a 'well-planned' move by the Assam government to grab the lands of the Nagas. It accused successive Assam governments of first encouraging 'illegal Bangladeshi immigrants' to settle in forests along the interstate border and then evicting them to grab the lands of the Nagas. The eviction drive at Uriamghat is one of a series of such operations since June. More than 55,000 people, mostly Muslims with roots in present-day Bangladesh, have been evicted from forestlands, grazing lands, and government revenue lands in Dhubri, Goalpara, Lakhimpur, and Nalbari districts.
New Indian Express
8 hours ago
- Politics
- New Indian Express
Massive eviction drive launched in Assam's Golaghat; 15,000 people, mostly Muslims, affected
Contrary to government claims that the area was encroached, the demolished properties include houses under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G), water connection under Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), government schools under Sarba Siksha Abhiyan (SSA) and electricity connections to almost every household, besides markets, mosques, madrassas and churches, according to locals. The affected families questioned the rationale of the eviction drive and claimed that they were brought to the place by the earlier governments to protect the area from the alleged invasion of Nagaland. "Where will we go from here? My father had come from Nagaon district around 40 years ago, but I was born here. We were brought here during the 1980s to protect the forest land from encroachment from Nagaland," said Ali Kazi, who also received an eviction notice. He claimed that most of the alleged encroachers' previous generation was settled in the forest area by the Janata Party government, headed by ex-CM Golap Borbora, in 1978-79 and the first AGP government, which came to power in 1985. Notably, the assembly was informed in March that almost 83,000 hectares of land belonging to Assam were being occupied by four neighbouring states. It was also stated that Nagaland captured the highest amount of land in Assam -- 59,490.21 hectares. Kazi claimed, "We have been cooperating with the authorities in this eviction drive. We requested them to settle us somewhere else, but they refused. We now have no option but to stay under tents. We are not even given drinking water; forget about food. It's very inhuman." Another eviction victim, Mamtaj Ali, asked, "If we were illegal settlers, how did we get electricity connections? Why did the government open schools and give us JJM connections? We were also given houses under PM Awas Yojana." When asked about these government infrastructure, a senior official of the forest department accepted that such facilities were provided by the authorities, and some of these installations were made even after 2016 when the BJP came to power for the first time in Assam. "I do not know why these were sanctioned and established in this area. These were made before I came here," he added. There were mosques and madrassa for people belonging to the Muslim community, while churches were set up by the Bodo people, the official said. Meanwhile, the Niki Sumi faction of National Socialist Council of Nagaland viewed the eviction drive as a 'well-planned' move by the Assam government to grab the ancestral lands of the Nagas. The rebel group alleged that successive Assam governments encouraged the policy of settling 'illegal Bangladeshi immigrants' in the inter-state border areas with the alleged intention to grab the lands of the Nagas. The massive eviction drive followed Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's recent visit to Uriamghat. 'People of Assam are victims of the mass scale encroachment, demographic alteration and violence which is caused by illegal settlers. They are firmly behind our Govt in our crackdown against encroachment and realise the need to reclaim what's truly ours,' Sarma posted on X on July 29 Earlier this month, the Assam government had carried out major eviction drives in Lakhimpur, Goalpara and Dhubri districts which displaced thousands of Muslims. (With inputs from PTI)
Time of India
16 hours ago
- General
- Time of India
Snake Dreams? These Zodiac Signs Experience Them Most Frequently
In the realm of Hindu astrology and dream analysis, snakes hold a profound symbolism that goes beyond their physical presence. Dreams involving snakes often leave a lasting impression, leaving individuals curious about their hidden meanings. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Let's delve into the mystique surrounding of Snakes in Dreams meaning Hindu Astrology. What is the significance of dreaming about snakes in Hindu astrology? Dreaming about snakes in Hindu astrology is believed to symbolize various aspects of life, including transformation, renewal, fertility, Kaal Sarpa Dosha, Naga Dosha, and divine protection and some of the Nakshatras that are associated with Sarpa Dosha so these types of people need to worship Sarpa or Nagas. The interpretation of snake dreams often depends on the context, the type of snake, and the emotions evoked during the dream. Zodiac signs that are associated with Snakes: Cancer The Moon, the planet of emotions and feelings and the planet is directly associated with Lord Shiva, rules Cancerians. Since snakes and crabs are both associated with water, they have a relationship not so good but yes there is a connection. Crabs are the symbol of Cancer. This sign is governed by the Moon, which also controls dreams and the subconscious. Snakes may show up in Cancerian zodiac sign dreams which is not considered auspicious as they always bring badluck to them. They also come in dreams when they face periods of emotional upheaval or when old emotional scars are resurfacing to mend so they need to worship snake gods and feed them. Scorpio Mars, the planet that symbolizes land, aggression, and fury, rules Scorpios. Scorpions are often found in water and on land, where snakes often reside so that also create a deep connection between both of them. Their venomous nature is what connects them deeply. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Scorpio is known for its psychic nature, fierce intensity, and connection to the hidden truths or you can say worlds. Sometimes it is ruled by transformative forces who belong to other world. As a result, Scorpio residents are more susceptible to symbolic dreams, especially those involving snakes, which represent secrets, reincarnation, or unreasonable anxieties. They are advised to offer prayers to snake Gods and visit the temple often. Pisces Jupiter, the planet that rules Pisceans, is a symbol of spiritual enlightenment and evolution. The Pisces sign is represented by the fish, which is aquatic, and the snake, which is aquatic as well, which fosters a close bond between the two. Pisceans are highly sensitive and perceptive and they often get dreams about snakes. Snakes may appear in Pisces' dreams as symbols of spiritual growth, healing, or subconscious warnings but these warnings are not for the purpose of good since they are drawn to both imagination and deeper emotions. They need to offer their sincere prayers to Lord Shiva and Nagas.
Time of India
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Happy Nag Panchami 2025: Images, Quotes, Wishes, Messages, Cards, Greetings, Pictures, and GIFs
Nag Panchami, a day dedicated to serpent worship, will be celebrated on July 29, 2025. The day is rooted in mythology, including tales from the Mahabharata and Lord Krishna's victory over Kaliya. Share blessings and devotion with loved ones through images, quotes, wishes, messages, cards, greetings, pictures, and GIFs, fostering a day of celebration and spiritual connection. Nag Panchami is an auspicious day dedicated to worshipping the Nagas. It is observed on the fifth day of the Shravan month in the Hindu lunar calendar. In 2025, Nag Panchami will be observed on Tuesday, July 29, with the Puja Muhurat between 5:41 AM and 8:23 AM. This celebration is steeped in age-old customs and mythology, such as the Mahabharata story in which Astika Rishi halted a snake sacrifice, rescuing the serpent community, and the tale of Lord Krishna defeating the poisonous serpent Kaliya. For a day full of celebration and devotion, here are Nag Panchami 2025 images, quotes, wishes, messages, cards, greetings, pictures, and GIFs to share with your loved ones: Nag Panchami Quotes for Nag Panchami "May the divine serpents bless you with health, wealth, and prosperity this Nag Panchami." "Seek blessings from Shiva and the serpents who represent his power on this Nag Panchami." "On this auspicious day, may your life be filled with joy and prosperity by the grace of Nag Devta." "Nag Panchami reminds us of the profound connection between humans and nature. Respect all life." "May the divine presence of the Nag Devta fill your life with strength and courage. Happy Nag Panchami!" "The serpent symbolizes cosmic energy and protection. May this Nag Panchami bring you peace and well-being." "May Lord Shiva's blessings and the Nagas' grace always protect you from all evils." "Embrace the power of inner transformation with the blessings of Lord Shiva on this auspicious Nag Panchami." "On Nag Panchami, let us remember the importance of respecting nature and all its creatures." "Wishing you a day filled with divine blessings and protection from the sacred Nagas." Wishes for Nag Panchami "Happy Nag Panchami! May the divine serpents protect you and your family from all harm." "Wishing you a very blessed and joyous Nag Panchami. May your life be filled with happiness and prosperity." "May the grace of the Nagas bring peace, success, and good fortune into your life. Happy Nag Panchami!" "On this auspicious occasion of Nag Panchami, I wish you and your loved ones a day filled with devotion and divine blessings." "May Lord Shiva and the Nag Devta shower their choicest blessings upon you. Happy Nag Panchami!" "Sending you warm wishes for a prosperous Nag Panchami. May your home be filled with harmony and well-being." "May the sacred Nagas bless you with strength, courage, and a life free from obstacles. Happy Nag Panchami!" "Wishing you a serene and fulfilling Nag Panchami. May you always be guided on the path of righteousness." "Happy Nag Panchami! May this festival strengthen your faith and bring you closer to divine blessings." "May the auspicious occasion of Nag Panchami bring you abundant joy, success, and inner peace." Messages for Nag Panchami "Happy Nag Panchami! May the divine blessings of Nag Devta always be with you and your family." "On this Nag Panchami, let's offer our prayers to the serpent deities for protection and prosperity. Wishing you a blessed day." "May the sacred thread of devotion connect us all to the blessings of Nagas. Happy Nag Panchami to you and your loved ones." "Happy Nag Panchami! May this day inspire us to respect and live in harmony with all creatures of nature." "Thinking of you on Nag Panchami and wishing you a day filled with peace, health, and happiness. Stay blessed!" "May the fear of evil be banished from your life with the blessings of Nag Devta. Happy Nag Panchami!" "Just as the Nagas protect, may you always find protection and guidance in your life's journey. Happy Nag Panchami!" "Wishing you a Nag Panchami full of devotion and spiritual growth. May all your prayers be answered." "May the wisdom and strength of the Nagas empower you in all your endeavors. Happy Nag Panchami, my dear friend!" "On this sacred day, let's remember the significance of respecting all forms of life. Happy Nag Panchami!" Greetings for Nag Panchami "Happy Nag Panchami!" "Blessed Nag Panchami to you!" "Wishing you a peaceful Nag Panchami." "May Nag Devta bless you." "Greetings on Nag Panchami!" "Prosperous Nag Panchami!" "Joyful Nag Panchami to all!" "Divine blessings this Nag Panchami." "Celebrate Nag Panchami with devotion." "Warm wishes on Nag Panchami!" Pictures for Nag Panchami GIFs for Nag Panchami
The Hindu
a day ago
- Politics
- The Hindu
NSCN faction says Assam eviction drive planned to grab Naga ancestral lands
The Niki Sumi faction of the extremist National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) said the Assam government's proposed eviction drive in Golaghat district's Uriamghat was designed to grab the ancestral lands of the Nagas. Uriamghat is close to Assam's border with Nagaland. The faction said the areas targeted were 'fictitiously' marked 'disturbed area belt' (DAB), citing pre-1947 demarcations by the British, who had transferred these areas for administrative convenience without consulting the Nagas. The faction said successive Assam governments made 'illegal Bangladeshi immigrants' settle down in the DAB with the alleged long-term plan to evict them and grab the lands of the Nagas. 'In the name of evicting the encroachers, the Assam government has double-crossed the Nagaland government by violating the terms and is occupying Naga ancestral areas by permanently stationing Assam police in the DAB,' it said in a statement. Assam and Nagaland have been locked in a bitter border dispute since the latter was carved out of the former in 1963, claiming more than 150 lives over the decades. Several rounds of talks have not helped resolve the dispute, but the two governments agreed to maintain the status quo more than a decade ago. The NSCN faction accused the Assam government of violating the status quo. It also underlined Assam's boundary disputes with other northeastern States. Assam has partially resolved its dispute with Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya. The faction appealed to the Naga people to pressure the Nagaland government into boosting security along the borders of their ancestral lands. It said more police personnel, home guards, and village guards should be recruited and deployed along the border with Assam. The Assam government has engaged a large number of police personnel and bulldozers to clear 11,000 bighas of land at Uriamghat. However, the eviction drive is unlikely to take place on Tuesday, as initially planned. 'The eviction drive has not been finalised yet. Land survey operations are underway,' Gunadeep Das, Golaghat's Divisional Forest Officer, said. He said about 60% of some 15,000 settlers, mostly Muslims, have already left Uriamghat after having been served notices. The Assam government has been carrying out a series of eviction drives across the State since June. At least 55,000 people, mostly Muslims with roots in present-day Bangladesh, have been evicted from forest land, grazing land, and government revenue land.
