Evening edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has successfully rescued over 3,800 children from child labour through a special campaign.
Key points
- The 'Pan-India Rescue and Rehabilitation' campaign ran from June 12 to August 31.
- Over 575 FIRs have been registered in connection with child labour incidents.
- NCPCR collaborated with state governments, district magistrates, police, and other stakeholders.
- The campaign focused on identifying, rescuing, and rehabilitating children vulnerable to trafficking and exploitation.
- Meetings were conducted with district administrations to monitor progress and address field-level issues.
Background & context
Child labour is a significant socio-economic issue in India, prohibited by law but prevalent in various sectors. The NCPCR, a statutory body, plays a crucial role in ensuring child rights and protection.
★ Prelims fact capsule
NCPCR is a statutory body under the Ministry of Women and Child Development.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper I (Social Issues), GS Paper II (Government Policies and Interventions)
Why in news?
Widespread protests, including a 'Chalo Sansad' march, occurred demanding action against examination paper leaks (like NEET) and criticizing alleged police brutality against student protesters.
Key points
- Protests intensified after activist Sonam Wangchuk was forcibly moved to a hospital.
- Thousands of people participated in the 'Chalo Sansad' march on July 20.
- Police reportedly used tear gas and batons against protesters in Delhi.
- Mobile internet services were suspended in Central Delhi during the protests.
- Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and K.C. Venugopal, have criticized the government and Union Home Minister Amit Shah over the handling of the protests and alleged police brutality.
- The protests have spread to multiple cities across India.
Background & context
Recurring instances of examination paper leaks (e.g., NEET, other competitive exams) have caused widespread public anger and distrust in the examination system. Student protests are a common response to perceived injustices and administrative failures.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Sonam Wangchuk started a hunger strike on June 28, 2026.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper I (Social Issues), GS Paper II (Polity, Governance, Role of opposition)
Why in news?
Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi has strongly criticized the Union Home Minister and Bihar government for alleged excessive force, including batons and firearms, against protesting students.
Key points
- Rahul Gandhi alleges that students protesting for fair opportunities and transparent examination systems faced 'horrific police brutality'.
- Reports mention the use of batons and even AK-47 and pistol gunfire, resulting in injuries.
- Gandhi stated that the government cannot evade responsibility by blaming low-ranking officials.
- He vowed to support the affected young people and warned that regimes suppressing youth will be held accountable.
- The issue has disrupted Parliament, with the Opposition demanding a statement from Amit Shah.
Background & context
Student protests are a recurring feature in India, often arising from issues related to education, employment, and governance. Allegations of police high-handedness during such protests are a sensitive political issue.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Rahul Gandhi met students from Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj as part of his 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' programme.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II (Polity, Governance, Rights Issues)