Afternoon edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
The Supreme Court questioned the extent of parliamentary debate surrounding the enactment of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service, and Term of Office) Act, 2023, which altered the appointment process.
Key points
- The Supreme Court is examining if the Parliament had a 'proper debate' on its 2023 judgment regarding EC appointments.
- The 2023 judgment established a selection committee including the CJI, PM, and LoP.
- The 2023 Act replaced the CJI with a Union Cabinet Minister nominated by the PM in the selection committee.
- The court expressed concern that the Act may have diluted the ethos of its previous judgment.
Background & context
A 2023 Supreme Court judgment (Anoop Baranwal vs. Union of India) had aimed to create a more participatory appointment process for CEC and ECs. The subsequent Act passed by Parliament modified this committee composition.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The 2023 Act replaced the Chief Justice of India (CJI) with a Union Cabinet Minister on the selection committee for CEC and ECs.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Constitution, Parliament, Judiciary, Governance, Election Commission of India.
Why in news?
The Ladakh UT administration has assured that local stakeholders will be involved in decisions regarding the formation of a power corporation and denied plans for solar power plants in ecologically sensitive areas, following local opposition.
Key points
- Local groups in Ladakh expressed resentment over the proposed formation of a Joint Venture for the power sector.
- The administration clarified that setting up a power corporation is a requirement under the Electricity Act, 2003.
- Assurances were given against setting up solar power plants in the ecologically sensitive Changtang region.
- The administration emphasized a commitment to dialogue and transparency in decision-making.
Background & context
Ladakh is a Union Territory bordered by China and Pakistan. The formation of a power corporation is often a step towards streamlining power distribution and management, as mandated by central legislation.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The Electricity Act, 2003 mandates the formation of power corporations.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Governance, Federalism, Administration of Union Territories.
Why in news?
The West Bengal Legislative Assembly has been dissolved by the Governor following the declaration of election results, paving the way for the formation of a new government.
Key points
- The Governor dissolved the 17th West Bengal Legislative Assembly with effect from May 7, 2026.
- The dissolution follows the BJP's victory over the Trinamool Congress in the assembly elections.
- The swearing-in ceremony for the new BJP government is scheduled for May 9, 2026.
- Amit Shah has been appointed as the central observer for the BJP legislative party meeting.
Background & context
Article 174(2)(b) of the Constitution empowers the Governor to dissolve the State Legislative Assembly. The recent assembly polls saw a significant shift in power in West Bengal.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Article 174(2)(b) of the Indian Constitution grants the Governor the power to dissolve the Legislative Assembly.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Polity, State Government, Elections, Constitutional Provisions.