Evening edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
The Supreme Court acknowledged that the preservation of culture is a constitutionally protected fundamental right, while hearing a case challenging the Great Nicobar Island Project.
Key points
- The Supreme Court emphasized that tribal cultures require constitutional protection.
- The court refused to stay Calcutta High Court proceedings in a petition challenging the Great Nicobar Island Project.
- The project is significant for national importance and strategic value, according to the Union government.
- The court urged the Calcutta High Court to decide the case without delay.
Background & context
The Great Nicobar Island is home to indigenous tribal populations, including the Shompen tribe. Environmental and cultural impact assessments are crucial for large development projects in ecologically sensitive areas.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The Supreme Court's observation highlights the constitutional status of cultural preservation.
✎ Mains relevance
GS-I: Society (Culture, Indigenous rights), GS-II: Polity (Fundamental Rights), GS-III: Environment (Environmental Impact Assessment).
Why in news?
Groups of aspirants are protesting against the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) over examination patterns, recruitment processes, and the commission's functioning.
Key points
- Protesters are divided, with some seeking the resignation of the chairman, others a return to the MCQ pattern, and some the continuation of the 2025 pattern.
- Demands include recruitment to 70,000 posts, consultation with aspirants for chairman appointment, conducting exams at centres, and investigation into irregularities.
- Leaders like Aaditya Thackeray and Rohit Pawar have supported the protests.
- The government has taken some measures, including the transfer of the MPSC secretary and continuation of offline examinations.
Background & context
The MPSC conducts recruitment examinations for various posts in the Maharashtra state government. Aspirants often face challenges related to exam patterns, delays, and alleged irregularities.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The MPSC is the state-level agency responsible for recruitment to state civil services in Maharashtra.
✎ Mains relevance
GS-I: Society (Social Issues, Youth), GS-II: Polity (Governance, Citizen's Charters, Administrative Reforms).
Why in news?
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) issued a notice following a complaint alleging the use and exposure of children during a protest organized by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) in Mumbai.
Key points
- The NHRC took suo motu cognisance based on a complaint from an NGO.
- Allegations include children being lifted above the crowd, holding the national flag, and potentially being used to evade detention.
- The complaint cited social media videos and purported group chat discussions.
- The NHRC seeks a report from the authorities on the matter.
Background & context
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is a statutory body established under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, to protect and promote human rights.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The NHRC's cognisance was triggered by a complaint regarding the alleged involvement of minors in a public protest.
✎ Mains relevance
GS-II: Polity (Human Rights, Role of NHRC, Governance), GS-I: Society (Child Rights).