Afternoon edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
Eight individuals, including former aides of the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary, were sent to 14-day judicial custody for alleged embezzlement of donations from the Ram Temple. A lawyer's association has resolved not to represent the accused.
Key points
- Eight accused arrested for misappropriating donated funds at Ram Temple.
- Accused booked under charges including theft, criminal breach of trust, cheating, and criminal conspiracy under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
- Former aides of Trust general secretary Champat Rai are among the accused.
- Faizabad/Ayodhya Bar Association resolved not to represent the accused, citing corruption in the name of faith.
- Congress leaders were placed under house arrest in Ayodhya while attempting to visit the temple amidst the controversy.
Background & context
The Ram Temple in Ayodhya has been a site of significant religious and political importance. The Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust was established to oversee the temple's construction and management. Allegations of financial irregularities in temple donations have surfaced.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The accused are charged under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper I (Art and Culture, Society), GS Paper II (Polity, Governance)
Why in news?
The Indian Army is establishing dedicated 'Baaz Battalions' to boost its Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) capabilities for improved battlefield surveillance, intelligence gathering, and rapid response.
Key points
- New 'Baaz Battalions' will consolidate and enhance the Army's drone (RPA) operations.
- The move is driven by operational lessons from border standoffs with China and successful drone use in past operations.
- These units will manage the entire lifecycle of RPA operations, from deployment to data analysis.
- The objective is to provide frontline units with advanced aerial surveillance and real-time intelligence for better decision-making.
Background & context
Drones have become increasingly vital in modern warfare for reconnaissance, surveillance, and targeting. India has been actively working to augment its indigenous drone capabilities, especially in light of evolving geopolitical challenges and asymmetric threats.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The 'Baaz Battalions' are being raised to enhance the Army's Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) capability.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper III (Internal Security, Science and Technology)
Why in news?
The West Bengal Assembly passed two bills: one allowing preventive detention of 'anti-socials' for up to a year and restricting lawyer access, and another mandating compensation for property damage.
Key points
- The West Bengal Public Safety and Control of Anti-Social Activities Bill, 2026, allows detention of 'anti-socials' for up to a year.
- Detained persons shall 'not be ordinarily represented by a legal practitioner' before the advisory board.
- The West Bengal Maintenance of Public Order (Amendment) Bill, 2026, imposes compensation for damage to public or private property.
- The bills have drawn criticism for potentially infringing on civil liberties and due process.
- The ruling party claims the legislation is necessary to maintain public order and curb anti-social elements.
Background & context
Preventive detention laws have historically been a contentious issue in India, with concerns over potential misuse and erosion of fundamental rights. Similar laws exist in other states and at the Union level, but often face judicial scrutiny.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The 'Public Safety and Control of Anti-Social Activities Bill, 2026' allows detention for 'almost a year'.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II (Polity, Governance, Constitution)