Supporters of the Awami League gather at the UN to call for lifting Bangladesh’s party prohibition.

Bangladeshi expatriates gathered outside the United Nations headquarters to protest the recent ban on the Awami League, urging international intervention to restore democratic governance in Bangladesh. Led by the USA chapter of the Awami League, the demonstration condemned the interim government of Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, alleging authoritarian rule and suppression of political opposition. Protesters argued that the ban was unjustified and called on the UN and U.S. government to pressure Bangladeshi authorities to reinstate the Awami League and allow free elections. The Bangladesh Election Commission’s suspension of the party’s registration has intensified concerns over political freedom in the country.

Committee in Meghalaya urges suspension of Indo-Bangladesh border fence inspection

The Coordination Committee on International Border (CCIB) of Meghalaya has urged authorities to postpone the proposed joint inspection of the India-Bangladesh border fencing project in West Jaintia Hills, citing ongoing legal proceedings in the Meghalaya High Court. While the CCIB and affected landowners do not oppose the fencing, they demand safeguards to prevent land loss for local residents. They argue that proceeding with the inspection before a court ruling could lead to unnecessary complications. The Meghalaya High Court has previously directed the state government to prioritize fencing work, but local concerns about indigenous land rights remain at the forefront of discussions.

A Meghalayan organisation calls for action over the dust pollution caused by Khliehriat’s highway building.

The Jaintia National Council (JNC) has raised concerns over severe dust pollution caused by highway construction in East Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya. Despite directives from the Deputy Commissioner, the contractor failed to implement dust control measures, prompting a meeting between JNC leaders and the site engineer. Following discussions, the engineer committed to watering roads twice daily. The JNC vowed to monitor compliance and warned of further action if pollution persists.

Parts of Manipur have increased security in anticipation of the Shirui Lily festival.

Authorities have bolstered security along the 80-km stretch between Imphal and Ukhrul ahead of the five-day Shirui Lily Festival in Manipur from May 20. Security measures include vehicle checks, patrolling, and additional force deployments to ensure safety amid reported threats. Central and state forces, aided by local volunteers, are in place to protect attendees. The festival, honoring Manipur’s state flower, takes place in the Tangkhul Naga-majority Ukhrul district. Given ongoing ethnic tensions in the state, security forces are closely monitoring the situation.

The Principal Chief Forest Conservator emphasises how important Assam National Parks are to the preservation of biodiversity.

Dr. Vinay Gupta, Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (Wildlife) in Assam, inaugurated the 4th Residential Orang Nature Camp, 2025, at Orang National Park and Tiger Reserve. The four-day camp aims to educate 32 students from six local high schools about biodiversity conservation. Organized by Aaranyak and supported by the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF), the program includes classroom sessions, expert-led discussions, and outdoor activities like safaris. Conservation leaders emphasized the camp’s role in inspiring the next generation to protect Assam’s rich wildlife heritage.

Tripura imposes orders to maintain order during the countrywide strike on May 20.

The Tripura government has directed that all state government offices, undertakings, and affiliated organizations must function normally on May 20, despite the nationwide general strike called by the All India State Government Employees’ Federation. Employees have been instructed to report for duty, and any violations will be taken seriously. Attendance reports must be submitted by noon on the strike day.

Assam starts executing projects worth Rs 60,000 crore from the Advantage Summit: CM

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the commencement of projects worth over ₹60,000 crore following the Advantage Assam 2.0 Summit, which attracted investment proposals totaling ₹5.18 lakh crore. Speaking at a MoU signing event for 20 new projects valued at ₹22,900 crore, Sarma emphasized that the state aims to secure ₹1.5 lakh crore in actual investments within the first year post-summit. Major infrastructure initiatives—including the Guwahati Ring Road and the Guwahati-Silchar Expressway—are underway, alongside ventures in waste management, renewable energy, and agro-industries. Highlighting Assam’s investment-friendly environment, Sarma stressed inclusive development, employment generation, and the integration of indigenous practices with modern innovation.