Afternoon edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) has initiated a suo motu case based on a video alleging that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee made derogatory remarks against the Scheduled Caste (SC) community during an election rally. The NCSC has requested a detailed report from the state's Chief Secretary and DGP.
Key points
- NCSC acted on a video clip of alleged derogatory remarks by a Chief Minister against the SC community.
- The commission has sought a report from the West Bengal Chief Secretary and DGP within three days.
- This action highlights the role of constitutional bodies in addressing caste-related issues and potential violations of the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act.
- The incident occurs during the ongoing election campaign in West Bengal.
Background & context
The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) is a constitutional body established under Article 338 of the Constitution of India. It is mandated to investigate and monitor all matters relating to the safeguards provided for Scheduled Castes under the Constitution or under any other law. It has all the powers of a civil court trying a suit and its inquiries are deemed judicial proceedings.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Article 338 provides for the National Commission for Scheduled Castes.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Constitutional bodies, Governance, Social Justice, Rights Issues.
Why in news?
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has petitioned the Rajya Sabha Chairman to disqualify seven of its MPs who recently defected to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The AAP alleges that this move violates the anti-defection law.
Key points
- Seven Rajya Sabha MPs have defected from AAP to BJP.
- AAP has submitted a petition seeking their disqualification under the anti-defection law.
- The party argues that the defectors were elected on AAP tickets and their actions are contrary to the law.
- This highlights the ongoing political maneuvering and its implications for legislative integrity.
Background & context
The Tenth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, popularly known as the anti-defection law, was added by the 52nd Amendment Act in 1985. It provides for the disqualification of members of Parliament and State Legislatures on the ground of defection from one party to another. However, it has certain exceptions, such as a split in the party where at least one-third of the members of the legislature party agree to merge with another party or form a new party.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The anti-defection law is enshrined in the Tenth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Polity, Governance, Legislature, Constitutional Provisions.
Why in news?
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to focus on the drug menace in Punjab, a state bordering Pakistan, as a key campaign issue for the upcoming State Assembly elections. The BJP is leveraging its recent gains, including securing seven AAP Rajya Sabha MPs.
Key points
- The drug menace is being highlighted as a major election issue for Punjab.
- The state shares an international border with Pakistan, raising concerns about drug trafficking.
- The BJP is strategically using this issue in its campaign, particularly after influencing AAP MPs.
- This issue has significant implications for national security and public health in Punjab.
Background & context
Punjab has been grappling with a severe drug abuse problem for years, with high rates of addiction to synthetic drugs and opioids. The proximity to the Pakistan border makes it a vulnerable route for drug smuggling. Various governments have attempted to tackle this issue through law enforcement, rehabilitation, and awareness programs, but it remains a persistent challenge.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Punjab shares a porous international border with Pakistan, making it susceptible to cross-border smuggling, including drugs.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Governance, Social Issues, National Security. GS Paper III: Internal Security.