Independence Day Live: Assam I-Day Marred By ULFA-I's Bomb Scare

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the Nation in celebrating the 78th Independence Day from the Red Fort in Delhi on August 15, 2024. He will unfurl the National Flag and deliver the customary address to the nation from the ramparts of the iconic monument. The theme of this year’s Independence Day is ‘Viksit Bharat @ 2047’. 

The celebrations will serve as a platform to provide a renewed push to the Government’s efforts towards transforming the country into a developed nation by 2047.

Follow every action live on Pratidin Time.

Six out of the eight sites in Guwahati where the proscribed outfit United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) allegedly planted explosives have been marked safe by the police. Guwahati Commissioner of Police Diganta Barah said on Thursday that search teams found suspicious items in the remaining two places - Pan Bazar and Gandhibasti.

This comes amid the 78th Independence Day celebrations as the police reported finding suspicious articles at two places in Guwahati. Similar articles have also been recovered at Lakhimpur, Sivasagar, Nalbari and Nagaon which have been disposed of safely.

Questioned by reporters, Diganta Barah said, "This morning, ULFA-I, through media, shared eight locations in Guwahati where they said that explosives were planted. We have searched all the locations very thoroughly."

After the proscribed militant outfit ULFA-I informed of explosives planted across Assam on Independence Day, suspicious objects have been recovered in Guwahati and elsewhere in the state.

One such object was recovered during search operations in Lakhimpur which turned out to an Improvised Explosive Device (IED). Bomb disposal squads have promptly diffused it.

Reacting to the recoveries of suspicious articles in Guwahati and other parts of Assam, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has said that the police will determine whether those are explosives or not, said Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

This comes amid the 78th Independence Day celebrations as the police reported finding suspicious articles at two places in Guwahati. Similar articles have also been recovered at Lakhimpur, Sivasagar, Nalbari and Nagaon which have been disposed of safely.

Asked about the situation, Sarma said, "Whether the recovered items are explosives or not, the police will confirm it. However, this [bomb blasts] is not something we want, especially as the Tata semiconductor plant is coming up."

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni extended her congratulations to India on its 78th Independence Day, emphasizing the strengthening relationship between the two countries. Alongside a photo with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Meloni highlighted the deepening strategic partnership between Italy and India.

A bomb scare followed by frantic search operations marred the 78th Independence Day celebrations in Assam on Thursday. Director General of Police (DGP) Gyanendra Pratap Singh has said that the police are carrying out extensive search operations and "suspicious articles" have been recovered in Guwahati and at other parts of the state.

Singh informed that the bomb disposal squad opened two such articles found in Guwahati at different places.

"These articles do not have ignition devices inside through some circuits and batteries are seen. The substance inside is being sent for forensic/chemical examination. (sic)," he said.

Similar articles have also been recovered at Lakhimpur, Sivasagar, Nalbari and Nagaon which have been disposed of safely, the Assam DGP stated on social media.

Border Security Force (BSF) Meghalaya celebrated India’s 78th Independence Day with great enthusiasm at the Frontier headquarters in Umpling, Shillong on Thursday. The celebration began with the ceremonial 'Flag Hoisting' by Sh. Harbax Singh Dhillon, Inspector General of BSF Meghalaya.

BSF personnel deployed at the border also celebrated this auspicious and proud day by hoisting the national flag, weapon exhibition for local students and distributing sweets to Border Guard Bangladesh fostering a spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect.

Adding to the patriotic fervor, students from BSF Schools presented a series of cultural programs that highlighted the rich cultural heritage and unity of the nation.

On India’s 78th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met and interacted with the Olympic contingent of the recently concluded Paris Olympic Games 2024.

The Prime Minister hailed the performances of the Indian athletes particularly the Indian Men’s Hockey Team, double-bronze-medalist Manu Bhaker, Sarabjot Singh and Aman Sehrawat among many others for their stellar show at the quadrennial event.

In a historic first, an all-women unit of the Border Security Force (BSF) engaged in the Independence Day tradition of exchanging greetings and sweets with their female counterparts from the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) at the Gede border post in West Bengal. This event represents a significant milestone in the customary celebrations along the 4,096 km international boundary.

The exchange took place near the Gede border post in Nadia district, with heightened security measures in place due to recent political developments in Bangladesh. The BSF delegation, consisting of six constables from the 32nd battalion, was dressed in ceremonial attire, while the BGB contingent was from the 6th battalion stationed at the Darshana border post.

This exchange of sweets and greetings, a tradition that symbolizes mutual respect and camaraderie, was notably carried out by women personnel for the first time. "It is a tradition which the women personnel have performed for the first time," remarked Sujeet Kumar, Commandant of the 32nd battalion BSF. The women exchanged handshakes and extended wishes for the prosperity of both nations and the strengthening of bilateral relations.

Jammu and Kashmir ABVP workers organised a Tiranga Rally with 300-feet long tricolour in Srinagar.

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) observed the 78th Independence Day with enthusiasm at the Delhi Air Traffic Services (DATS) Complex in New Delhi on Thursday. Sanjeev Kumar (IAS), Chairman of AAI, led the celebrations by hoisting the national flag in the presence of senior AAI officials.

In his address, Kumar extended greetings to all and highlighted the importance of remembering the sacrifices made by freedom fighters. He also pointed out AAI's contributions to the Indian aviation sector and reaffirmed the organization's dedication to the nation's development. Emphasizing the need to align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a "Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047," Kumar stressed the importance of accelerating infrastructure development within AAI and reiterated the commitment to delivering "hassle-free services to passengers."

Assam cabinet minister Atul Bora hoisted the national flag in Nagaon. He inspected the Guard of Honour and paid tribute to the sacrifices of martyrs and freedom fighters.

"I highlighted various ambitious initiatives undertaken by our Government, led by Hon'ble Chief Minister Dr.@himantabiswa, to transform the development landscape of Assam and propel it towards a brighter future.Also, felicitated freedom fighters, their families, and competition winners, and thanked everyone for their enthusiastic participation," Bora wrote on X.

Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma hoisted the national flag on the 78th Independence Day in Aizawl and extended his heartfelt greetings to all the people of the state and the Zo ethnic communities living outside the state.

Lalduhoma also expressed deep gratitude and reverence for the selfless freedom fighters who dedicated their lives and services to the nation.

Addressing the gathering, CM Lalduhoma reaffirmed that his administration consistently prioritizes "Mizoram first" in every policy, striving to meet the expectations, aspirations, and hopes of the people.

He reaffirmed the government's dedication to inclusive governance and development, emphasizing increased transparency, accountability, and a people-focused administration aimed at enhancing public service delivery.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu participated in the 78th Independence Day celebrations held in Vijayawada today. He extended Independence Day wishes to the citizens and highlighted the NDA government's commitment to the welfare and development of the state.

Chandrababu Naidu, "The state is now burdened with Rs 9.74 lakh crore in debt due to the previous government. The public is now witnessing independence after the new government formation. A 100-day plan of action was implemented for the destruction of violence. Simple governance and effective governance is our motto."

CM Naidu said that after assuming the charge he signed on a mega DSC project addressing the unemployment issue in the state as promised in the manifesto in the run-up to the assembly elections.

During his Independence Day address from the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for the inclusion of one lakh young individuals without any political lineage into politics. He emphasized that bringing fresh blood into the political arena could help end casteism and dynasty politics. Modi encouraged these youth to join any political party of their choice and participate in various levels of governance, including panchayats, nagarpalikas, zilla parishads, and legislative bodies. He also highlighted that this initiative would introduce new ideas and capabilities, contributing to the nation's progress towards a 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047.

During his Independence Day address, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted the state's journey towards development, emphasizing the importance of self-reliance and confidence in building a prosperous Assam without depending on the central government.

He underscored the state's efforts to tackle longstanding issues, such as floods, without external assistance, and reiterated his commitment to fulfilling promises made during elections despite facing political and personal attacks.

The Chief Minister spoke of Assam's transformation, with a focus on maintaining the state's demographic balance and safeguarding the rights of its indigenous people. He expressed concerns over the changing population dynamics, noting that the Hindu population has declined to 57 percent, while the Muslim population has risen to 41 percent. He called for efforts to restore the traditional environment and urged the public to continue supporting Assam's Satra culture, which he described as the soul of the state.

On Independence Day 2024, Sunita Kejriwal, wife of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, expressed disappointment that the tricolour was not hoisted at the CM's residence. She stated, "The tricolour was not hoisted at the CM's residence today. Very sorry. This dictatorship can keep an elected chief minister in jail, but how will it stop patriotism in the heart..."

On India's 78th Independence Day, Google has unveiled a striking Doodle that celebrates the country's architectural legacy. Designed by Varindra Javeri, the Doodle features a rich visual montage of India's diverse architectural styles, from ancient temples and historic forts to modern skyscrapers and traditional homes, showcasing the nation's cultural and historical richness.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his Independence Day speech, strongly advocated for 'one nation, one election,' citing frequent polls as obstacles to national progress. Speaking from the Red Fort, Modi highlighted that extensive consultations and a comprehensive committee report support this initiative. He urged political parties to unite in implementing this vision and ensure that national resources serve the common man, emphasizing that this is a key promise in the BJP's election manifesto.

On August 14, 2024, the Government of India marked the day as Partition Horrors Remembrance Day to honor and remember the pain and suffering experienced during the nation's partition. This day highlights the unprecedented displacement and forced migration faced by millions, as well as the end of co-existence and the significant alterations to lives caused by the partition.

In commemoration, North Frontier Railway (N.F. Railway) held events across its jurisdiction, including at railway stations and headquarters. Exhibitions featuring stalls, hoardings, and photographs were set up to depict the struggles endured by Indians during the 1947 partition.

A group of trekkers recently celebrated the 78th Independence Day with troops stationed at the Siachen Glacier, the world's highest battlefield. The trekkers, including members from the Karnataka Mountaineering Association and the Indian Mountaineering Foundation, highlighted the Indian Army’s remarkable efforts in environmental conservation in this harsh and remote terrain.

In his Independence Day 2024 address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that 75,000 new seats will be added to medical colleges across India over the next five years. He stated, "Viksit Bharat 2047 should also be 'Swasth Bharat,' and to achieve this, we have launched the Rashtriya Poshan Mission."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Independence Day 2024 that maternity leave for working women has been extended from 12 weeks to 26 weeks. He emphasized, "For working women, maternity leave has been increased from 12 weeks to 26 weeks. We not only respect women and make sensitive decisions for them but also ensure that the government does not hinder a mother’s ability to nurture her child into a quality citizen..."

Project Swastik of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) marked the 78th Independence Day with vibrant patriotic celebrations throughout Sikkim. The flag was hoisted at several key locations, including Donkayala Pass and Tamze Pass—the highest passes in North and East Sikkim—Doklam, Nathula on the Line of Actual Control, and Point 4685, the highest peak in East Sikkim.

As part of the “Har Ghar Tiranga” initiative, the flag was also hoisted at the recently inaugurated Indryani Bridge in Singtham, which was officially opened by Hon’ble Chief Minister Prem Kumar Tamang (Golay).

Additionally, Project Swastik organized Tiranga marches and runs at various prominent locations in North Bengal and Sikkim, including Chungthang, Chandmari, Burtuk, Kalimpong, Kupup, and Nathula.

Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) President Lurinjyoti Gogoi led the 78th Independence Day celebrations by hoisting the national flag at the party headquarters.

Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) Chief Bhupen Bora paid tribute to the nation's brave martyrs while hoisting the national flag on the occasion of the 78th Independence Day.

In his Independence Day speech, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed his pride in Charaideo Moidam's inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List. This recognition marks the 43rd UNESCO site from India and the first from the Northeast region.

“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Charaideo Moidam was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. This significant recognition marks the 43rd UNESCO site from India and the first from the Northeast region. This wouldn’t have been possible without the blessings of the Prime Minister. I congratulate the people of Assam on this auspicious day today. I feel proud that during my tenure as Chief Minister Charaideo Moidam has got an international recommendation. This has been my most important political gain in my career,” said CM Sarma.

In his Independence Day speech, PM Modi declared, "We aim to develop an education system in India that ensures students do not need to go abroad for their studies."

"Middle class contributes significantly to the nation and seeks a quality life; our goal will be to minimize government interference," stated PM Modi.

On Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India’s significant efforts in renewable energy, surpassing other G20 countries. Speaking from the Red Fort, he stated, "India is working towards self-reliance in energy and tackling global climate change challenges. We had pledged to focus on renewable energy, and India has achieved more in this regard than other G20 nations."

As part of its climate strategy, India has committed to reaching 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based electricity by 2030. Currently, the country has 446 GW of power generation capacity, with approximately 195 GW derived from non-fossil energy sources.

On the 78th Independence Day, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma voiced significant concerns about the minority communities in violence-stricken Bangladesh. Speaking about the situation, CM Sarma expressed his thoughts with the minority populations, including Hindus, Christians, Buddhists, and Jains.

Transport Officer Himanshu Kumar Das hoisted the national flag at the Kamrup Metro District Transport Office to mark the 78th Independence Day. During the ceremony, Das honored a home guard jawan working in the Transport Department. Deputy Transport Commissioner Gautam Das was also in attendance.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma hoisted the national flag at Khanapara in Guwahati on Independence Day. The ceremony, attended by local officials and residents, marked a significant celebration of the nation's 78th Independence Day.

BJP State President Bhabesh Kalita hoisted the national flag at the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Bhawan in Basistha Chariali, Guwahati. The event was attended by Guwahati Lok Sabha MP Bijuli Kalita Medhi, East Guwahati MLA Siddhartha Bhattacharya, BJYM President Rakesh Das, and other party leaders and workers.

Chief Justice Vijay Bishnoi hoisted the national flag at the Gauhati High Court in celebration of the country's 78th Independence Day. The ceremony, attended by judges and several dignitaries, was followed by various cultural programs.

PM Modi noted that "People's suggestions for 'Viksit Bharat' include governance reforms, a speedy justice delivery system, and the promotion of traditional medicines."

PM Modi highlighted that "People have offered numerous suggestions for making India developed by 2047, including turning the nation into a manufacturing hub and a seed capital."

PM Modi asserted, "'Viksit Bharat 2047' is not just a slogan; it reflects the resolve and aspirations of 140 crore people."

PM Modi stated, "With our collective resolve, we are fully capable of transforming India into a developed nation by 2047."

PM Modi remarked, "If 40 crore people could break the shackles of slavery to gain freedom, imagine what the resolve of 140 crore people can achieve."

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami conveyed his heartfelt greetings and best wishes to all the people of the state on the occasion of Independence Day 2024.

"We are proud to carry the legacy of the 40 crore people who overthrew colonial rule in India," declares PM Modi from the ramparts of Red Fort.

PM Modi acknowledged, "In recent years, and especially this year, natural calamities have intensified our concerns. Many have lost loved ones and property; the nation too has faced significant losses. Today, I extend my heartfelt sympathy to all affected and assure them that the nation stands firmly with them in this time of crisis."

On India's 78th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag at the iconic Red Fort in Delhi for the 11th consecutive time. Despite an overcast sky and light drizzle, the ceremony proceeded smoothly, marking another significant milestone in the nation's history.

New Assam Governor Lakhsman Prasad Acharya will unfurl the national flag at 7:30 am at Raj Bhavan. This will be followed by a prize distribution ceremony for various events.

Meanwhile, the Assam Legislative Assembly Secretariat is going to celebrate the 78th Independence Day on Thursday at 7:30 am at the New Assam Legislative Assembly Building in Dispur.