Afternoon edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
Delhi Police denied permission to the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) for a protest at Jantar Mantar, citing previous violations and potential law and order issues. The Supreme Court, however, affirmed the right to protest and directed that metro services should not be completely prohibited.
Key points
- CJP planned a protest demanding the resignation of the Chief Election Commissioner and rollback of electoral roll revision.
- Delhi Police denied permission citing security concerns and past conduct.
- Supreme Court emphasized the fundamental right to protest and association.
- Court directed authorities to allow regulated movement of metro and railway services.
- Union Home Ministry advised states to coordinate with Delhi Police to prevent protesters from mobilizing towards the capital.
Background & context
The right to protest is a constitutionally protected fundamental right in India, often balanced against the need for maintaining public order. Delhi, as the national capital, frequently sees such protests and authorities often impose restrictions.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Section 144 of the CrPC can be invoked to prohibit assembly of four or more people.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Polity - Right to protest, Fundamental Rights, Constitutional provisions, Role of Judiciary, Governance; GS Paper IV: Ethics - Balancing individual rights with societal needs.
Why in news?
Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar claimed that sting operations were attempted against him and his ministerial colleagues, a charge that the Deputy CM stated was based on intelligence reports. The opposition BJP has challenged the CM to reveal the names involved.
Key points
- Karnataka CM alleged attempts of sting operations against him and ministers.
- Deputy CM confirmed the allegation was based on intelligence received.
- Opposition parties, including the BJP, have dismissed the claims.
- Speculation exists about ministerial visits to Delhi amidst these discussions.
- Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy made a remark implying the CM is a 'sting master'.
Background & context
Political maneuvering and allegations of unfair tactics, including sting operations, are not uncommon in Indian politics, particularly in states with competitive electoral landscapes.
★ Prelims fact capsule
D.K. Shivakumar is the Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Polity - Federalism, State Politics, Governance; GS Paper IV: Ethics - Political ethics, use of unfair means in politics.
Why in news?
A crackdown in Karnataka seized over 564 tonnes of Public Distribution System (PDS) rice, valued at ₹1.34 crore, and exposed an international smuggling racket operating from Bengaluru Rural district.
Key points
- Over 564 tonnes of PDS rice seized in a three-day crackdown.
- Value of seized rice estimated at ₹1.34 crore.
- An international smuggling racket operating out of Bengaluru Rural district was exposed.
- Rice was being packaged under a trade name 'WoW' with a tagline 'Rice for Africa'.
- Six criminal cases registered under the Essential Commodities Act, 1981; vehicles worth ₹3.41 crore seized.
Background & context
The Public Distribution System (PDS) is a government-sponsored food security program aimed at providing subsidized food grains to the poor. Diversion of PDS commodities to the black market is a significant issue affecting food security and fair distribution.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The Essential Commodities Act, 1955, provides for the control of the production, supply, and distribution of essential commodities.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper III: Economy - Food security, Black marketing and hoarding; GS Paper II: Governance - Public distribution system, Role of various agencies in curbing malpractices.