Three people were detained for a gruesome killing in Manipur, including two from West Bengal.

Manipur Police have arrested three individuals in connection with the fatal hit-and-run of 39-year-old Rajiv Thokchom in Singjamei Thokchom Leikai, Imphal West. The suspects—Khongbantabam Bishnachandra Singh (31), Suman Debnath (24), and Shubham Sarkar (22)—were remanded to judicial custody until May 19. The incident, which took place on April 30, reportedly involved an altercation before Rajiv was fatally run over. Police have reviewed CCTV footage and witness statements confirming the sequence of events.

The inaugural geothermal production well in Northeast India has been successfully drilled in Arunachal Pradesh.

The Centre for Earth Sciences and Himalayan Studies (CESHS) has successfully drilled Northeast India’s first geothermal production well in Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh, marking a significant step in renewable energy development. Identified as a medium-to-high enthalpy geothermal zone, the site boasts subsurface temperatures of approximately 115°C, ideal for direct-use applications like drying systems for local produce, space heating, and climate-controlled storage. The project, supported by international partners, aims to enhance livelihoods in high-altitude regions while promoting sustainable energy solutions. With future expansion planned, Dirang could become India’s first geothermal-powered urban settlement.

In its first-ever trial run, Northeast Frontier Railway links Aizawl to the rail network.

The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) successfully conducted its first-ever trial run to Sairang, Mizoram, marking a major milestone in the state’s railway connectivity. The Bhairabi–Sairang railway project, spanning 51.38 km, features 48 tunnels, 55 major bridges, and 87 minor bridges, including bridge number 196, which stands 104 meters tall—42 meters higher than the Qutub Minar. The trial was supervised by senior railway officials, and the Commissioner of Railway Safety is set to inspect the line in early June, paving the way for formal inauguration after June 17, 2025. The project is expected to bring economic and social benefits by enhancing accessibility, reducing travel time, and supporting local industries.

Union Minister Verifies Commitment to Meghalaya Railway Projects in Face of Local Opposition.

Despite ongoing opposition from Khasi Hills pressure groups, the Ministry of Railways remains committed to improving connectivity in Meghalaya, including Shillong. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication, stating that railway development will continue despite challenges. Pressure groups demand protective measures such as the Inner Line Permit (ILP) before approving expansion, citing concerns over population influx. Meanwhile, railway operations in the Garo Hills have continued for a decade without such concerns. The Meghalaya government emphasizes public consent but is cautiously exploring alternatives after failing to persuade Khasi groups.

According to CM Manik Saha, all Tripura panchayats have been deemed PwD-friendly.

Tripura Declares All Panchayats as Disability-Friendly
Tripura has officially declared all panchayats across the state as Persons with Disability-friendly, ensuring inclusive governance. Chief Minister Manik Saha announced the initiative during National Panchayati Raj Day, emphasizing accessibility and empowerment for all citizens. The state has built new Panchayat Bhavans, District Resource Centres, and Learning Centres, with ongoing efforts to upgrade institutions to ISO standards. Additionally, the Panchayat Department signed an MoU with IIM Shillong for advanced training, reinforcing capacity building. Tripura has also received ₹157 crore from the 15th Finance Commission for the financial year 2024-25.

14-year-old SLHEP dam turbine part is being shipped in Assam.

A stranded turbine component for the 2,000 MW Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Power (SLHEP) dam at Gerukamukh, Assam, was finally transported after remaining immobilized for 14 years. Initially halted by anti-dam protests led by Akhil Gogoi in 2011, the machinery was abandoned in North Lakhimpur, where it became a canvas for protest art. Opposition from groups like KMSS, AASU, and AJYCP had kept the project under contention, but today, the turbine was finally moved to its destination at the NHPC-operated dam site.

In Imphal West, Manipur police detain a suspected armed smuggler.

Manipur Police have arrested a 50-year-old man identified as Konsam Romeo Singh, suspected to be an armed Smuggler during an operation in a crowded area of Imphal on Friday.

Police made the arrest near the Bazar India Shopping Mall in Chingmeirong, Imphal West district, following intelligence inputs regarding illegal armed activities.

According to a police report, a Commando unit from the City police station swiftly responded to the indicated location, leading to the apprehension of Singh, who is a resident of Sawombung Maniyaiskul in Imphal East District.

Following his arrest, police have recovered one 9 mm Pistol with a magazine loaded with 10 rounds, one mobile phone, cash of Rs 33o, and one identity card.

The report added that the arrested individual and the seized items are now in police custody for further investigation.

The Bairabi-Sairang railway line will be put into service by NFR in July.

The Bairabi-Sairang broad gauge railway line connecting Mizoram to India’s railway network is set for commissioning in July. Executed by Northeast Frontier Railway, the ₹8,200 crore project features extensive infrastructure and trial runs have been successfully conducted. As part of the Centre’s Act East policy, the railway boosts connectivity in the Northeast. A survey for further extension to Lawngtlai near the Myanmar border is underway. Officials discussed ongoing developments with Mizoram’s CM, while a CRS inspection is scheduled for early June, paving the way for inauguration after June 17.

Khatkhati Evacuation Caused by Gas Leak During Well Digging in Assam.

This is a serious situation. Based on available reports, the gas leak occurred during a water boring operation in Khatkhati on May 1, around 5 PM. A strong flow of water erupted unexpectedly and continued until the next morning, causing concern among residents. ONGC experts have arrived to assess the site and collect samples to determine the cause of the leak. Authorities have restricted activities within 200 meters of the affected area while awaiting test results.
The district administration is closely monitoring the situation, and further actions will depend on ONGC’s findings. If natural gas is confirmed, it could have broader implications for resource exploration in the region.

Security personnel dispose IEDs and prevent a militant strike close to the Myanmar border in Manipur.

In a joint operation near the Myanmar border, security forces defused eight Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), dismantled three illegal bunkers, and seized ammunition in Saivom village, Manipur. The operation, led by the BSF, RAF, Assam Rifles, and local police, followed an internal security exercise aimed at evaluating preparedness for various threats. The coordinated effort highlights the strategic measures taken to prevent potential terror incidents and enhance security in the region.