Afternoon edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
Several instances of significant errors and alleged manipulation in voter lists have surfaced during the preparation for Legislative Council and local body elections in Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh, leading to protests and official inquiries.
Key points
- Unusual names and details like 'Ram ne Yadav ko maara' and 'B.Com' in place of father's name appeared in UP Legislative Council voter list.
- Protests erupted in Mumbai demanding withdrawal of Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, arrest of CEC, and repeal of the 2023 law on EC appointments.
- In Pilibhit, UP, legal action was ordered against officials for discrepancies where voter EPIC numbers displayed details of other electors.
- Allegations that SIR process disenfranchises marginalized communities and that the ECI acts in favour of the ruling party.
- In Andhra Pradesh, 69 villages in the Amaravati capital region are excluded from local body polls due to a separate governance framework.
Background & context
Electoral rolls are the basis for conducting fair elections. Discrepancies or intentional manipulation can lead to disenfranchisement and undermine democratic processes. The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is a process to update voter lists, but concerns have been raised about its implementation and potential impact on voter rights. The 2023 law mentioned relates to the appointment of Election Commissioners, which critics argue impacts the ECI's independence.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The Allahabad graduate constituency was among those affected by voter list errors in Uttar Pradesh.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Governance, Polity (Elections, Electoral Reforms, Role of ECI, Independence of Institutions)
Why in news?
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted the formation of a cyclonic storm over the Bay of Bengal, with landfall expected on the North Andhra Pradesh coast around October 28.
Key points
- A low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into a cyclonic storm.
- Landfall is anticipated on the North Andhra Pradesh coast in the early hours of October 28.
- The storm is likely to move towards the Odisha coast subsequently.
- Wind speeds could reach up to 145 kmph, with potential for a severe or very severe cyclonic storm.
- Red and Orange warnings have been issued for several districts in Andhra Pradesh, anticipating heavy to extremely heavy rainfall.
Background & context
The Bay of Bengal is a common region for cyclone formation, particularly during the post-monsoon season. Cyclones can cause significant damage to life and property, impacting coastal communities and infrastructure. The IMD plays a crucial role in monitoring, forecasting, and issuing warnings for such weather events.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The cyclone is predicted to form over the east-central and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper I: Geography (Cyclones, Natural Disasters); GS Paper III: Disaster Management (Preparedness, Mitigation, Early Warning Systems)
Why in news?
The Assam government has instituted the 'Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika National Award' and will present the inaugural award to singer Usha Mangeshkar.
Key points
- The award is instituted by the Assam government to honour contributions to music and culture.
- The inaugural award will be presented to eminent singer Usha Mangeshkar.
- It will be given every three years to an internationally or nationally recognised figure in music, arts, or cinema.
- The award includes a cash prize of ₹10 lakh and a citation.
- The award ceremony will coincide with the concluding event of Bhupen Hazarika's birth centenary celebrations.
Background & context
Dr. Bhupen Hazarika was a renowned Assamese singer, lyricist, filmmaker, and poet, celebrated for his immense contribution to Indian music and cinema. The award aims to perpetuate his legacy and recognize artistic excellence.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The award includes ₹10 lakh in cash and a citation.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper I: Art and Culture (Indian Music, Awards); GS Paper II: Governance (Awards and Honours)