Evening edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
The Supreme Court urged the Union government to release funds for installing CCTV cameras in police stations across states, as part of the Assistance to States and Union Territories for Modernisation of Police (ASUMP) scheme. This follows the court's suo motu initiative after noting non-functional cameras in police stations and aiming for effective implementation of its 2021 ruling.
Key points
- Supreme Court directed the Centre to consider states' requests for funds for CCTV installation in police stations.
- Funds to be disbursed under the Assistance to States and Union Territories for Modernisation of Police (ASUMP) scheme.
- Aims to ensure effective implementation of the 2021 ruling mandating CCTV installation at key police station locations.
- Initiated suo motu after reports of non-functional CCTVs in Rajasthan police stations.
Background & context
The Supreme Court's 2021 ruling in Paramvir Singh Saini v. Baljit Singh mandated the installation of CCTV cameras in police stations at entry/exit points, lock-ups, corridors, reception areas, and officers' rooms to ensure accountability and prevent custodial torture.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The ASUMP scheme is overseen by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Governance, Polity and Administration, Judiciary and its role in safeguarding rights.
Why in news?
The AIADMK legislature party experienced a significant split during a trust vote in the Tamil Nadu Assembly, with a faction led by S.P. Velumani voting in favour of the Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay's confidence motion, while the faction led by E.P. Palaniswami voted against it.
Key points
- AIADMK legislature party divided during a trust vote.
- 25 MLAs supported the motion, led by S.P. Velumani.
- 22 MLAs opposed the motion, led by E.P. Palaniswami.
- Indicates a vertical split within the AIADMK legislative ranks.
Background & context
The AIADMK is a major political party in Tamil Nadu. Splits and factionalism within major parties often lead to political instability and shifts in power dynamics within state assemblies.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay moved the confidence motion.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Governance, Polity and Administration, party politics, anti-defection laws (though not directly invoked here, the context of party discipline and splits is relevant).
Why in news?
The Madras High Court stayed a notice issued by the Tamil Nadu Cyber Crime Wing to X Corp, demanding the removal of 18 posts critical of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) and Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, citing concerns about freedom of speech and democratic discussion.
Key points
- Madras High Court stayed a notice from TN Police to X Corp for content takedown.
- Notice demanded removal of 18 posts critical of TVK and CM C. Joseph Vijay.
- Court acted on a PIL arguing against stifling democratic discussions on social media.
- Notice invoked IT Act and IT Rules for allegedly 'unlawful content' inciting unrest.
Background & context
The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, govern the responsibilities of intermediaries like X (formerly Twitter) regarding user-generated content. Section 79 of the IT Act provides safe harbour for intermediaries under certain conditions.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The notice was issued under Section 79(3)(b) of the IT (Amendment) Act 2008 and Rule 3(1)(d) of the IT Rules, 2021.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Governance, Polity and Administration, Freedom of Speech and Expression, role of judiciary in protecting rights, Digital India and associated challenges.