Afternoon edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
Allegations and counter-allegations between the Congress and BJP regarding the Election Commission of India's (ECI) Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, including a planned protest by Rahul Gandhi.
Key points
- Congress and INDIA bloc allege exclusion of voters, particularly marginalized groups, during the SIR.
- BJP accuses Congress of staging a 'political drama' and misleading the public, citing ECI's statement.
- ECI stated it did not receive a formal request for a meeting from the Congress delegation as claimed.
- Concerns raised about the process of amending electoral rolls and its potential impact on voter demographics.
- Actor-activist Prakash Raj also criticized the SIR, claiming it disenfranchises marginalized communities.
Background & context
The Election Commission of India regularly undertakes Special Intensive Revisions (SIR) of electoral rolls to ensure accuracy and update voter lists. This process involves identifying eligible voters and removing deceased or non-resident individuals. Political parties often scrutinize these revisions, especially if they perceive a bias or an attempt to influence election outcomes.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is a process conducted by the Election Commission of India.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper I (Social Issues) - Representation of People Act, Electoral Reforms; GS Paper II (Polity) - Role of ECI, Election Laws, Constitutional provisions related to elections.
Why in news?
A 4.9 magnitude earthquake struck Uttarakhand's Chamoli district, with tremors felt across Delhi-NCR and parts of Uttarakhand.
Key points
- A 4.9 magnitude earthquake hit Chamoli district in Uttarakhand.
- The earthquake's epicentre was at a depth of 13 km.
- Tremors were felt in Delhi, NCR, and other parts of Uttarakhand, including Dehradun.
- No reports of damage or casualties have been received so far.
- The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) monitored the seismic activity.
Background & context
Uttarakhand is situated in a seismically active zone, being part of the Himalayas, which lie in a high-risk seismic zone (Zone V). Major earthquakes have occurred in the region historically, posing a significant risk to life and property.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) is the nodal government agency for earthquake monitoring in India.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper I (Geography) - Earthquakes, Seismic Zones of India; GS Paper III (Disaster Management) - Earthquake preparedness and mitigation.
Why in news?
Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar visited Delhi ahead of the 57th GST Council meeting, potentially to discuss state-specific issues and meet Congress leaders.
Key points
- Karnataka CM D.K. Shivakumar was in Delhi for the 57th GST Council meeting.
- The visit was also an opportunity to discuss pending state appointments and cabinet vacancies.
- He had previously met Union Ministers regarding drought, development projects, and fund release for Karnataka.
- The CM's schedule was tight due to ongoing political protests in Delhi.
- GST Council meetings are crucial for fiscal federalism and tax policy in India.
Background & context
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council is the apex decision-making body for GST in India. It comprises the Union Finance Minister as chairperson, the Union Minister of State for Revenue, and the Finance Ministers of States and Union Territories. It plays a vital role in harmonizing indirect taxation across the country.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The GST Council is a constitutional body established under Article 279A of the Constitution of India.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II (Polity & Governance) - Federalism, Inter-state Council, Role of GST Council; GS Paper III (Economy) - Taxation system, Fiscal Policy.