Evening edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
The Supreme Court made observations on the right to protest and association while reacting to the 'shutting down' of Delhi ahead of planned protests demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Opposition parties are also planning to meet the President with the same demand.
Key points
- Supreme Court affirmed the fundamental right to association and peaceful protest.
- Reacted to the shutdown of Delhi and alleged detention of protesters ahead of a planned demonstration.
- Opposition INDIA bloc plans to meet President Murmu regarding demands for CEC Gyanesh Kumar's resignation.
- Protests are linked to alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
Background & context
The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) is a constitutional office responsible for conducting elections in India. The Election Commission of India (ECI) comprises the CEC and Election Commissioners. The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is a process to update and clean electoral rolls. Opposition parties often scrutinize the ECI's functioning, especially during election-related processes.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Article 324 of the Constitution deals with the Election Commission of India.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Polity and Governance – Appointment to various Constitutional posts, pressure groups and formal/informal associations and their role in the polity. Right to protest as a fundamental right.
Why in news?
Delhi Police has registered 25 FIRs concerning protests related to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, with Congress leaders named. Actions are taken following alleged incidents of lawlessness and violations of prohibitory orders.
Key points
- 25 FIRs registered by Delhi Police related to SIR protests since October 2.
- Cases include alleged vandalism, assaults on police, obstruction of work, and violation of Section 163 of BNSS.
- Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra are among those named.
- Action follows reports of Election Commissioners objecting to decisions regarding electoral roll revisions.
Background & context
The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) is a code of criminal procedure. Protests and demonstrations are common in India, but are subject to regulations and laws regarding public order and property.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) is a recent replacement for the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC).
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Polity and Governance – Structure, organization and functioning of the Executive and Judiciary; Law and order machinery. GS Paper IV: Ethics – Role of civil services in maintaining law and order.
Why in news?
Telangana CM A. Revanth Reddy advocated for embracing digital innovation while cautioning against compromising 'Brand India' globally to appease 'crony distractions,' referencing the challenges faced by Starlink in India.
Key points
- Advocates for welcoming innovative internet solutions.
- Warns against weakening 'Brand India' for 'crony distractions'.
- References Elon Musk's statement on Starlink's entry barriers.
- Highlights UPI as a success of Indian innovation under UPA-II.
- Emphasizes safeguarding global reputation and technological standing.
Background & context
Digital innovation and internet penetration are crucial for economic development and global connectivity. 'Brand India' refers to the global perception of India's economic, technological, and cultural standing. UPI (Unified Payments Interface) is India's instant real-time payment system.
★ Prelims fact capsule
UPI was conceptualized and adopted under the Congress-led UPA-II government around 2012-13.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper III: Economy – Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. GS Paper III: Science and Technology – Developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.