Afternoon edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
The Madhya Pradesh High Court ruled that the Bhojshala-Kamal Maula complex in Dhar is a Hindu temple, directing the Muslim community to seek alternative land. This decision comes amid historical disputes over the site's religious identity and follows a survey ordered by the court.
Key points
- The High Court determined the complex's religious character based on archaeological evidence and the 'preponderance of probability' principle, referencing the Ayodhya judgment.
- The ruling was made possible through a loophole in the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act 1991, which exempts ancient and historical monuments.
- The court suggested the Muslim community seek alternative land for their religious practices.
- The dispute over Bhojshala's identity has existed for over a century and intensified during the Ram Janmabhoomi movement.
Background & context
The Bhojshala-Kamal Maula complex has been a site of contention regarding its religious identity for over a century. An ASI arrangement in 2003 allowed alternating usage by different faiths. The High Court's recent decision revisits this dispute.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The Bhojshala complex is located in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 1: Indian Society, Culture, History. GS Paper 2: Polity, Judiciary, Religious issues.
Why in news?
Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Giorgia Meloni outlined an expanded roadmap for India-Italy cooperation, emphasizing the 'Indo-Mediterranean' corridor as a key area for collaboration in trade, technology, energy, space, and security.
Key points
- The partnership aims to bridge the Indo-Pacific and Mediterranean regions, seen as increasingly interconnected economic hubs.
- Focus areas include trade, technology, energy, space, and security.
- The 'Indo-Mediterranean' corridor is envisioned as a vital link for trade, technology, energy, data, and ideas, connecting the Indian Ocean to Europe.
- This initiative aligns with and potentially complements existing frameworks like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
Background & context
India and Italy have evolved their relationship from a cordial friendship to a special strategic partnership, grounded in shared values of freedom and democracy.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The joint op-ed by PM Modi and PM Meloni was published around May 20, 2026.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 2: International Relations (India's foreign policy, bilateral relations), Economy (Trade, Economic Corridors).
Why in news?
The Supreme Court issued a notice to the Uttar Pradesh government and police regarding a petition alleging that state machinery was used to suppress a labour agitation in Noida to protect corporate interests against 'wage theft'.
Key points
- The petition alleges the UP Police acted as 'agent provocateur' to crush a legitimate labour movement.
- The aim was allegedly to shield corporate entities from liability for 'rampant wage theft'.
- The petitioner highlights the use of the National Security Act (NSA) against an activist to prevent bail.
- The Supreme Court had previously remarked that agitating workers should not be treated as 'terrorists'.
Background & context
Labour agitations and concerns over workers' rights, including demands for a 'living wage', have been ongoing issues. The role of state police machinery in managing such protests is a critical aspect of law and order and governance.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The petition involves allegations concerning Noida and the use of the National Security Act (NSA).
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 2: Polity (Federalism, Law and Order, Police Reforms), Governance (Rights of Workers), Social Justice (Labour Rights).