Afternoon edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
Tamil Nadu witnessed a record voter turnout of 84.69% in the recent Assembly polls, with some districts like Kancheepuram recording over 87% polling. This surge is attributed partly to a reduction in the electorate size following a Special Intensive Revision (SIR).
Key points
- Overall voter turnout reached 84.69%.
- Kancheepuram district recorded over 87% polling.
- Electorate size reduced from 40.57 lakh in 2021 to 28.93 lakh in 2026 due to SIR.
- Senior citizens and persons with disabilities actively participated, with many choosing to vote in person.
- The election concluded peacefully.
Background & context
Voter turnout is a key indicator of democratic participation. Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls is a process to update voter lists and ensure accuracy. High turnout often signifies increased political engagement.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The voter turnout in Tamil Nadu Assembly polls reached 84.69% in 2026.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper I: Society - Role of women and other vulnerable sections in voting, Political participation. GS Paper II: Governance - Elections, Electoral Reforms, Role of ECI.
Why in news?
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav compared the Congress party to the Kauravas from the Mahabharata over the defeat of the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha, which proposed to make delimitation a prerequisite for implementing women's reservation.
Key points
- MP CM alleged Congress 'thwarted' PM Modi's women empowerment plans.
- Comparison made between Congress and Kauravas regarding the women's reservation bill.
- The bill aimed to link women's reservation to delimitation.
- Political parties are using the issue to attack opponents.
Background & context
The Women's Reservation Bill (Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam) aims to reserve one-third of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies. Its implementation is contingent upon delimitation exercises.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill proposed making delimitation a prerequisite for women's reservation.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper I: Society - Role of women, Social justice. GS Paper II: Governance - Polity, Reservation policies, Women's empowerment, Legislative procedures.
Why in news?
The Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) is facing another strike, with workers demanding the fulfilment of 32 demands, including the absorption of 40,000 employees into government service.
Key points
- Nearly 65 lakh daily commuters affected by the TGSRTC strike.
- Workers are pressing for 32 demands, with absorption into government service being the most contentious.
- This strike echoes a similar crippling strike six years ago.
- The crisis persists despite changes in the ruling party.
Background & context
Public sector transport corporations often face issues related to employee demands, financial sustainability, and government policies. Strikes by transport workers can significantly disrupt public life and economy.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) workers are demanding the absorption of 40,000 employees into government service.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper III: Economy - Infrastructure, Public sector undertakings. GS Paper II: Governance - Labour issues, Public services, State government policies.