Weekly Current Affairs (22nd to 30th December 2023) | Current Affairs: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - CLAT PDF Download

Uttar Pradesh Tops in Usage of Criminal Justice Data Platform

Uttar Pradesh has ranked first for the third straight year in recording the highest usage of India’s Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS). The digital platform enables seamless data sharing across courts, police, prisons and forensic labs.

What is ICJS?

The ICJS platform allows different pillars of the criminal justice apparatus to access common information like:

• FIRs
• Trial records
• Court judgments
• Prosecution details
• Forensic data

This facilitates streamlined tracking of cases from filing to conviction.

Uttar Pradesh’s Leadership
Uttar Pradesh has logged over 1.56 crore ICJS entries – dwarfing numbers from second-ranked Madhya Pradesh. The wide adoption allows police advanced analytics for predicting and controlling crime. Prosecution and courts also benefit from ready data access.
Additionally, the state’s platform usage encompasses:

• Criminal photographs/videos
• Court proceedings recordings
• Documentary evidence

Boosting Efficiency

• By enabling data interchange between all stakeholders through a common digital interface, the ICJS platform reduces paperwork and delays. 
• It assists speedy administration of justice while aiding officers with decision-making via comprehensive analytics.

Indian Scientists Develop Eco-Friendly Solar Cell Material

Indian researchers have created a novel solar harvesting material that substitutes toxic lead with greener magnesium. This marks an important breakthrough for affordable and sustainable photovoltaics.

The Promise and Perils of Perovskite

• Perovskite solar cells have shown tremendous efficiency promises at low costs. But mainstream versions use a formulation with toxic lead – hazardous for health and environment.

Seeking a Solution

• Scientists at Hyderabad’s International Advanced Research Centre for Powder Metallurgy & New Materials, an autonomous institute under India’s Department of Science and Technology, tackled this challenge.
• They synthesized a new perovskite material swapping half the lead for abundant, non-toxic magnesium while retaining efficiency.

Novel Solar Cell Design

• The researchers also pioneered a simplified solar cell architecture using this new MAPb0.5Mg0.5Cl2I perovskite formula.
• Unlike traditional costly models with gold electrodes, theirs utilizes affordable titanium dioxide and carbon.

Remarkable Performance

This lead-magnesium perovskite photodetector demonstrated:

• High responsivity of 153 mA/W
• Ultra-fast response time of 0.4 milliseconds
• Low bias voltage requirement

The figures meet or exceed various standard solar cell metrics.

Government Adds 34 Lakh Farmers Back to PM-KISAN Scheme

The Indian government has re-enrolled 34 lakh farmers under its PM-KISAN program after numbers dropped over 20% from peak levels in 2022. This comes amidst a nationwide yatra to saturate coverage.

PM-KISAN Benefits and Eligibility

• The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme provides Rs 6,000 yearly income support to farmers in three installments. Eligible landholding families making below Rs 6 lakhs annually get Rs 2,000 every four months.
• Over 12 crore farmers have received funds under the program since its 2019 launch.

Recent Decline in Enrollment

• Enrollments hit an all-time high of 10.47 crore during April-July 2022 before declining. By August-November 2022 numbers fell to 8.57 crore and further to 8.12 crore in December 2022-March 2023.
• This also reduced overall disbursals from Rs 67,121 crore in 2021-22 to only Rs 58,258 crore in 2022-23.

Ongoing Efforts to Boost Coverage

• A countrywide yatra was initiated on November 15th to saturate PM-KISAN coverage among eligible farmers, especially vulnerable groups, who haven’t yet benefited. Already this has reinstated 34 lakh beneficiaries, largely concentrated in major agrarian states like Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan.
• Authorities expect to cross 8.75 beneficiary farmers by the yatra’s end in January 2024 through this inclusion drive.
• Having peaked enrollment ahead of the 2019 general elections, the latest push comes as the 2024 polls near. Broad coverage of the rural vote bank scheme again carries political import alongside welfare aims.

India Warns Offshore Crypto Exchanges Flouting Regulations

India’s anti-money laundering agency, the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU-IND), has issued legal notices to 9 offshore cryptocurrency platforms violating domestic regulations.

Bringing Crypto into the AML Ambit

• In March 2022, India mandated all Virtual Digital Asset Service Providers (VDA SPs) like crypto exchanges to register with FIU-IND under prevention of money laundering laws. This requires them to fulfill reporting, record-keeping and compliance obligations.
• So far, 31 exchanges have registered. But many foreign entities catering to Indian users weren’t registering despite the location-agnostic, activity-based rules.

Cracking Down on Violators

• The FIU-IND has now sent legal notices under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act demanding explanations from 9 unnamed offshore crypto companies.
• It also requested the IT Ministry to block their website access in India for defying laws.

Aimed at Safeguarding Users

• India allows functioning of regulated crypto platforms to curb use of uncontrolled channels. Rules make exchanges monitor client activity and report high-risk transactions.
• By enforcing compliance, authorities seek to safeguard Indian users from poor oversight and abuse on such platforms.
• It also aims to check unlawful inflows from Indian investors into unregulated vehicles notorious for money laundering or terror financing.

Priority on User Protection

• India has adopted a calibrated approach – neither banning crypto nor letting it grow unchecked.
• Ensuring exchanges have strong controls remains a policy priority to mitigate financial crime risks the assets could pose if left unregulated.
• By compelling international platforms to follow Indian AML-rules for local users, regulators are trying to balance innovation with user security.

Scientists Decode Unique Endangered Fish Genome

Scientists have for the first time sequenced the mitochondrial DNA of the Brahmanakenda fish found solely in Kerala’s Periyar Tiger Reserve. The breakthrough offers insights to protect this critically endangered species.

Introducing Lepidopygopsis typus

• Lepidopygopsis typus, locally dubbed Brahmanakenda, is a monotypic freshwater fish occupying cold streams in the Western Ghat mountains. Monotypic species with no close relatives have high evolutionary importance.
• Brahmanakenda is categorized as endangered by the IUCN Red List due to its limited habitat and threats from invasive fish. Decoding its genome is an urgent conservation priority.

Mitochondrial Genome Findings

The mitochondrial genome helps elucidate a species’ evolution and differentiation from relatives.

Key revelations include:

• Genetic adaptations allowing survival in chilly uphill waters
• Distinct genomic structure differing from other regional fish
• Specific mutations likely contributing to endangerment

Conservation Implications

• Researchers say Brahmanakenda represents an EDGE species that is both Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered.
• The relic fish’s one-of-a-kind genome offers living evidence of the Western Ghats’ evolutionary past.
• But its precarious state and unusual genetics necessitate swift habitat protection policies before this aquatic heritage disappears.

ADB Report on Gendered Impacts of the Covid-19 Pandemic in Central and West Asia

A sobering new report from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has highlighted the endemic levels of domestic violence against women in Pakistan, including disturbing rates of physical assault.

Widespread Domestic Abuse

• The ADB report cited a recent survey showing 40% of women in Pakistan endure physical violence, while 46% face physical abuse from their husbands. Additionally, 27% of survey respondents knew children who were beaten by their parents.
• Pakistan has among the highest rates of domestic violence in the region, with human rights activists characterizing it as an epidemic. Factors driving this violence include biases viewing women as subordinate and lack of legal protections.

Key Drivers of Abuse

• Gender Inequality: Pakistan ranked poorly on the Gender Inequality Index, which measures gaps in education, jobs, maternal health, and political representation. Significant gaps remain between men and women.
• Economic Dependence: Only 20.6% of working-age women have paid jobs versus 77.7% of men. Financial reliance on male relatives reinforces vulnerability.
• Social Norms: Articles reviewed shed light on societal attitudes accepting domestic violence as normal and women as voiceless. Changing these norms is seen as central.
• Legal Shortcomings: Weak legal frameworks fail to criminalize different forms of violence or offer women protections and recourse. Police frequently show bias against victims.

Multiplying Threats from COVID-19

• The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated risks, with lost incomes, school closures, lockdowns with abusers, and curtailed access to support services all raising abuse rates.

Recommendations from ADB

The ADB outlined areas for gender-responsive public investment and reform:

• Awareness campaigns challenging attitudes accepting violence
• Improving female education and economic participation
• Legal changes criminalizing domestic abuse
• Increased access to support services and shelters
• Training police, judges and health workers on constructively handling cases

Dr P. Indira Devi Conferred Prestigious ISAE Fellow 2023 Title

Dr P. Indira Devi, an eminent agricultural economist from Kerala, has been conferred the distinguished title of ISAE Fellow 2023 by the Indian Society of Agricultural Economics (ISAE). This recognition highlights her trailblazing contributions spanning over three decades in the domains of agricultural research, policymaking and teaching.

About Dr P. Indira Devi

• Currently, Dr Indira Devi serves as the Director of Kerala State Farmers’ Welfare Board and is an ICAR Emeritus Professor at the Kerala Agricultural University. She has an illustrious background working across critical roles encompassing agricultural economics, rural development and extension activities.
• In her diverse career, she has creditably executed many crucial projects funded by national and international agencies. Her advisory and leadership acumen also stands testimony through membership in prestigious policy formulating bodies and journal editorial boards.
• Her pioneering work isvalidated through 70+ research papers and 4 reference books spanning complex interdisciplinary challenges facing Indian agriculture. Her multifaceted experience bolsters her eye for detail and ability to provide nuanced policy perspectives on ground issues.

Significance of the ISAE Fellow Honor

• The ISAE Fellow recognition represents the pinnacle of professional achievement awarded by India’s foremost agricultural economics society established in 1939. It recognizes academics who have profoundly impacted theory and practice over their extensive careers.
• The recognition gains further gravitas this year as Dr Indira Devi becomes the first woman agricultural economist from Kerala to be decorated with this title in ISAE’s 84 year journey. She joins a select league of exemplary policy makers and thinkers driving agricultural transformation.

Trailblazing Change

• As India looks to reshape its agricultural policy to drive food security and rural prosperity, the demand for progressive women economists providing transformational thought leadership continues to amplify.
• Dr Indira Devi’s ideas can catalyse implementation of technology-driven, sustainable and socially conscious solutions for one of humanity’s greatest challenges this century – achieving optimal nutrition levels amidst climate change.

Hu Zhongming : China Appoints New Navy Chief Amid Rising Regional Tensions

On December 25th, China announced Rear Admiral Hu Zhongming as the new commander of the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), replacing Admiral Dong Jun. The change in leadership comes at a time of escalating tensions between China and its neighbours over disputed territories in the East and South China Seas.

Hu’s Background

• Details are scarce about Hu’s naval career. He first joined the PLA in 1979. Chinese state media reports that he commanded a submarine at one point, with his crew receiving a top merit award in 2013. In 2008, Hu was credited with averting a major accident during tests of a new submarine model. These limited accounts suggest Hu has extensive experience in submarine warfare.

China’s Naval Capabilities

• China possesses the largest navy in the world by number of vessels. Under Hu’s command are three main fleets: the North Sea Fleet, East Sea Fleet, and South Sea Fleet. The South Sea Fleet has grown its presence in the South China Sea, where China contests overlapping claims with Southeast Asian countries. Meanwhile, the East Sea Fleet would likely lead any conflict near Taiwan or Japan. China’s navy frequently holds joint exercises with Russia as well.

Regional Implications

• Hu’s appointment comes as China adopts increasingly aggressive “gray-zone” tactics to intimidate neighbours and pursue its territorial ambitions. Chinese warships and coast guard ships now regularly patrol disputed areas of the South China Sea, sparking incidents with Vietnamese, Philippine and Malaysian forces. China is also expanding its naval footprint into the Indian Ocean, alarming India.
• Meanwhile, rhetoric and military posturing towards Taiwan have reached ominous new heights. Admiral Hari Kumar of the Indian Navy recently expressed concerns about over 50 warships from extra-regional powers like China and Russia now operating in the Indo-Pacific.

Loyalty Over Merit?

• Some analysts speculate Hu may have been selected more for his political reliability rather than professional credentials. His predecessor Dong Jun still had three years before the PLA’s standard retirement age. Since last year, China has seen abrupt replacements of top generals without clear explanations.
• Such moves highlight President Xi Jinping’s intense focus on consolidating military loyalty to himself and the Chinese Communist Party. At a July meeting, Xi told the PLA to “uphold the party’s absolute leadership.” This political loyalty now seems to be valued over professional experience in the PLA’s leadership appointments.

Bharatiya Space Station / Bharatiya Antariksha Station

India aims to establish its own permanent space station called ‘Bharatiya Space Station’ over the next 25 years. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has set a target to launch the first module of this station by 2028.

• This forms part of India’s ambitious future space plans, which also include crewed missions, deeper space exploration and more advanced launch capabilities.

First Module Launch by 2028

• According to recent statements by ISRO Chairman Dr. S. Somanath, the organization plans to launch the first module of Bharatiya Space Station by 2028. This is likely to be an 8-ton module launched using India’s LVM3 rocket. This will be followed by launching additional modules over the next 7 years.
• By 2035, ISRO aims to have a fully operational space station with greater launch capacity, facilities for docking crew and cargo transporters, zero gravity research labs and more.

Developing Heavy Lift Launchers

• To support the space station, ISRO is developing more powerful rockets capable of lifting 20–25-ton payloads to Low Earth orbit.
• These heavy lift vehicles will allow assembling a modular station by launching segments separately and joining them in space. They can also support possible future interplanetary missions.

Crewed Missions to Follow

• While the first module will be robotic, Dr. Somanath indicates plans for crewed missions after 2035 once the Bharatiya station gains full functionality. This will cap India’s 3-stage strategy spanning robotic spacecraft, human spaceflight programs and finally a permanent national space station.

Global Space Station Landscape

• India’s ambition comes as the International Space Station (ISS) may conclude operations by 2030, offering opportunities for new national or regional stations.
• China already has a permanent station called Tiangong while Russia plans its own ROS station to replace lost access to ISS. Against this backdrop, Bharatiya station establishes India as a major space-faring nation.

Wider Space Plans

• Alongside the space station, ISRO is accelerating other projects like the Gaganyaan crewed spacecraft, the Aditya solar observatory, extraterrestrial rovers and exploring nuclear propulsion.
• ISRO has also opened up the space sector to private players to spur research and innovation. Their participation can enhance launch services, satellite manufacturing and applications benefiting the public.

Implications of Bharatiya Space Station

• Once successful, India’s own space station would be a massive technological leap enabling advanced exploration and cementing strategic interests. If executed per plans, it will be the hallmark of a self-reliant space industry guided by national priorities. Undoubtedly, Bharatiya Space Station will be an unprecedented achievement writing India into the record books of space development.

Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) Conclave of Chiefs (CoC) 2023

The 8th edition of the IONS Conclave of Chiefs took place in Bangkok, Thailand, from December 19 to 22, 2023. Chiefs of Navies and senior delegates from 27 member and observer countries participated in this significant event.

Leadership Transition and Work Plan Finalization

• During the Conclave, Thailand assumed the role of Chair of IONS, and a comprehensive two-year work plan was finalized. A noteworthy development was the selection of a flag designed by India as the official IONS flag. 
• India also took on the co-chair role for IONS Working Groups on Maritime Security and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) for the upcoming cycle. The Republic of Korea Navy was welcomed as the latest observer, increasing the collective strength of IONS to 34 (25 Members & 09 Observers).

Bilateral Maritime Discussions

• On the sidelines of the Conclave, Admiral R Hari Kumar interacted with Heads of Delegation from various countries, including Australia, Bangladesh, France, Iran, Italy, Malaysia, Maldives, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Spain. The discussions focused on bilateral maritime issues, strengthening ties and cooperation.

IONS: A Forum for Maritime Cooperation

• IONS, conceived by the Indian Navy in 2008, serves as an open and inclusive platform for enhancing maritime cooperation among the navies of Indian Ocean littoral states. It facilitates discussions on regionally relevant maritime issues to foster a common understanding and collaborative strategies.

Omicron Subvariant JN.1

Researchers at the University of Tokyo predict that the omicron subvariant JN.1 (BA.2.86.1.1) is poised to become the dominant lineage of the SARS-CoV-2 virus worldwide. This variant, distinguished by a spike protein mutation known as L455S or “FLip,” was designated a variant of interest (VOI) on December 18, 2023, following a rapid surge.

Evolution from BA.2.86 and “FLip” Mutations

• JN.1 is a descendant of the BA.2.86 lineage, which emerged in August 2023, carrying more than 30 mutations in its spike protein. Notably, the “FLip” mutations, including L455S and L455F, switch amino acid positions on the spike protein, enhancing transmissibility. JN.1 rapidly surpassed its predecessor in France, indicating its increased prevalence.

Impact on ACE2 Binding and Immunity

• A single F456L or L455F substitution in the spike protein diminishes the receptor binding capacity of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). ACE2 serves as an entry point for the SARS-CoV-2 virus. 
• The study supervised by Yunlong Richard Cao reveals that variants with these mutations, like XBB.1.5+F456L and BA.2.86 + S: L455S, exhibit stronger binding to ACE2 and reduced protection against natural antibodies.

Transmissibility and Reproductive Number

• The effective reproductive number (Re) of JN.1 in France, the United Kingdom, and Spain is higher than other variants (BA.2.86.1 and HK.3), indicating a growth advantage and increased transmissibility. This raises concerns about the potential for the virus to evade vaccination.

Immune Evasion and Breakthrough Infections

• Comparative studies by BIOPIC suggest that JN.1 displays a significantly enhanced ability to evade immunity, particularly in cases of XBB breakthrough infections. This finding prompts questions about the effectiveness of existing vaccines against this evolving subvariant.

Global Prevalence and CDC’s Insights

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States anticipate JN.1 to account for 39-50% of all SARS-CoV-2 variants for the two weeks ending on December 23, 2023.
• The CDC notes an increase from previous projections, indicating the variant’s potential for higher transmissibility or immune evasion. However, the full extent of its impact on infections and hospitalizations remains uncertain.

Global COVID-19 Trends and Caution

• Globally, between November 20, 2023, and December 17, 2023, there has been a 52% increase in new cases and an 8% decrease in deaths. In India, 3,241 new cases and 21 deaths were recorded during the same period. 
• The Southeast Asia Region reported a staggering 388% increase in new cases. However, caution is advised in interpreting reported cases, given the reduction in testing and reporting.

Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, 2023

• In a significant move towards simplification and efficiency, the Parliament passed the Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, 2023, on Thursday. The legislation aims to revolutionize the process of allotment of title and registration of periodicals, introducing a seamless online system without the need for physical interfaces. 
• The bill, which received unanimous approval in the Lok Sabha through a voice vote, had already been passed in the Rajya Sabha on August 3. This new enactment replaces the archaic Press and Registration of Books (PRB) Act, 1867.

Simplified One-Step Registration Process

• Addressing the Lok Sabha, Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur emphasized the transformative nature of the bill, highlighting that it streamlines the registration of periodicals into a straightforward one-step process. 
• This modern approach replaces the cumbersome eight-step process mandated by the outdated British-era law. Minister Thakur noted that the new bill is both simple and smart, allowing for the swift and simultaneous registration of newspapers and periodicals with just a click of a button.

Decriminalization and Financial Penalties

• One of the key aspects of the bill is the government’s commitment to decriminalizing statutes inherited from the colonial era. The legislation proposes financial penalties for certain violations instead of criminal convictions. To ensure a fair and credible appeals process, an appellate mechanism headed by the Chairperson of the Press Council of India has been integrated.

Title Registration

• The title registration process, which previously extended to 2-3 years, will now be expedited to a mere 60 days. This, the minister believes, will empower the Press Registrar General to fast-track the registration process, benefiting small and medium publishers and facilitating a smoother start for new publications.

Elimination of Declarations and Intimations

• Under the new law, publishers will no longer be burdened with filing declarations with District Magistrates or local authorities, eliminating a bureaucratic hurdle. 
• Similarly, printing presses will only require an intimation, simplifying the administrative process. This streamlined approach aligns with the government’s vision of fostering a conducive environment for the media industry.

Draft Regulations on Turnover Determination

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has recently unveiled draft regulations aimed at determining the ‘turnover’ of enterprises. This regulatory development holds considerable significance, as it directly impacts the calculation of penalties imposed on enterprises for engaging in anti-competitive conduct.

Penalties Based on ‘Global Turnover Basis’

• The backdrop for these draft regulations stems from the Competition (Amendment) Act 2023, which introduced the notion of levying penalties on a ‘global turnover basis.’ This legislative amendment specified that regulations would be formulated to guide the determination of turnover for penalty imposition. Notably, this approach diverged from a previous Supreme Court ruling that constrained the Competition Commission’s powers in penalty imposition.

Exclusions from Turnover Computation

• In the proposed regulations, the CCI explicitly outlines exclusions from the computation of ‘turnover.’ Indirect taxes, intra-group sales, and discounts are identified as elements to be excluded. This clarification aims to provide a clearer and more precise understanding of the financial metrics that will be considered when determining turnover for penalty calculation.

Stakeholder Input: Window for Comments Opened

• Recognizing the significance of these regulations, the CCI has opened a window for stakeholders to submit their comments. The period for submitting feedback extends until January 12 of the coming year. 
• This inclusive approach ensures that industry participants and experts have an opportunity to contribute to the refinement of these regulations before they are finalized.

Impact on Multinational Companies

• The shift towards calculating penalties on a ‘global turnover’ basis has raised concerns, especially for multinational companies operating across diverse jurisdictions. This change could potentially expose such companies to significant penalties, considering their extensive global operations.
• However, experts also view this development as a strategic move to enhance the CCI’s authority and serve as a deterrent against potential violations of antitrust laws.

Strengthening CCI’s Powers

• The introduction of ‘global turnover’ as a benchmark for penalty imposition is a noteworthy feature of the amended law. This provision, inserted through the Competition (Amendment) Act 2023, did not undergo public consultations.
• Despite potential challenges, this change is seen by experts as a measure that strengthens the CCI’s powers, positioning it to more effectively deter enterprises from engaging in anti-competitive practices.

Future Guidelines on Penalties

• In addition to these draft regulations, the CCI is expected to issue guidelines on penalties in the near future. These guidelines are anticipated to provide further clarity on the application of penalties and contribute to a more transparent and predictable regulatory framework.

Promoting Inclusivity in Political Discourse: Election Commission’s Guidelines

In its commitment to accessible and inclusive elections, the Election Commission of India is taking significant steps to ensure equal participation of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). In a groundbreaking move, the Commission has issued guidelines to political parties and their representatives to foster inclusivity and respect in the political discourse concerning the PwD community.

Key Guidelines for Political Parties and Candidates

The Election Commission urges political parties and their candidates to adhere to the following guidelines:

• Avoiding Derogatory Language: Political parties and their representatives should refrain from using ill, derogatory, or insulting references regarding disabilities or PwDs in public statements, speeches, writings, articles, outreach materials, or political campaigns.
• Contextual Sensitivity: Disability or terms related to disabilities should not be used in the context of human incapacity during public speeches, writings, articles, or political campaigns.
• Preventing Stereotypes: Strict avoidance of comments related to disabilities or PwDs that may be offensive, perpetuate stereotypes, or reinforce prejudices is essential.
• Legal Consequences: Usage of derogatory language, mockery, or insults to PwDs may attract provisions of Section 92 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016.
• Internal Review Process: All campaign materials, including speeches, social media posts, advertisements, and press releases, must undergo an internal review process within political parties to identify and rectify any instances of ableist language.
• Declaration of Commitment: Political parties should declare on their websites their commitment to using disability and gender-sensitive language, respecting human equality, equity, dignity, and autonomy.
• Rights-Based Terminology: Political parties are encouraged to use rights-based terminologies as outlined in the Convention on Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).
• Accessibility Measures: Public speeches, campaigns, activities, and events conducted by political parties should be accessible for all citizens. Websites and social media content should be digitally accessible for persons with disabilities.
• Training Module: Political parties are encouraged to provide a training module on disability for party workers at all levels, appoint a nodal authority to address complaints related to ableist language, and strive to include more PwDs in various roles within the party.

Background and Commitment to Inclusion

• The Election Commission has been actively working towards creating a conducive environment for PwDs to participate in the electoral process. Facilities such as accessible polling stations, Braille signage on EVMs, ramps, separate queues, wheelchairs, and accessible toilets have been introduced. 
• The home voting facility, particularly for PwD voters with a benchmark disability of 40%, has gained popularity. The Commission emphasizes that the objective of accessible and inclusive elections can only be fully achieved when political parties and candidates join the cause, treating all PwDs with respect and dignity.

Legal Framework and Protection

• The Right for Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, plays a crucial role in protecting the rights of PwDs. Section 7 of the Act provides protection from all forms of abuse, violence, and exploitation, while Section 92 outlines punishment for offenses related to such actions.
• The Election Commission’s guidelines aim to reinforce these legal provisions and promote a society that does not discriminate based on disability.

CISF Roped In for Parliament’s Security

The government has taken a decisive step to enhance the security measures at the Parliament building complex. In light of a recent breach of the safety ring, official sources revealed that the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) will now be responsible for the “comprehensive” security of the complex.

Enhanced Security Measures by CISF

• Under this new arrangement, the CISF will implement stringent access control procedures reminiscent of airport security. Persons entering both the new and old Parliament complex will undergo body frisking using handheld detectors. 
• Additionally, their belongings will be subject to thorough scrutiny through X-ray machines. The CISF will even scan shoes, heavy jackets, and belts by placing them on a tray and passing them through the scanner.

Shift from Delhi Police Personnel

• Previously, Delhi Police personnel were responsible for frisking visitors to the Parliament complex. However, the recent security breach on the anniversary of the 2001 Parliament terror attack prompted a reevaluation of security protocols.

Security Breach Incident

• During the security breach, two individuals jumped into the Lok Sabha chamber, releasing yellow smoke and shouting slogans during Zero Hour. They were eventually overpowered by Members of Parliament, highlighting the need for a more robust security system.

Ministry of Home Affairs Directive

• The Union home ministry directed a survey of the Parliament building complex after granting “in principle” approval to entrust the overall security to the CISF. The goal is to establish a “regular deployment of the CISF security and fire wing on a comprehensive pattern.” 
• The survey, scheduled to begin later this week, will determine the exact number of CISF personnel required for the enhanced security task. It will also clearly define the roles of each security agency involved in Parliament security.

Integration of Security Forces

• Both the new and old Parliament complexes, along with their allied buildings, will fall under a comprehensive security cover provided by the CISF. This cover will incorporate existing elements of Parliament Security Service (PSS), Delhi Police, and the Parliament Duty Group (PDG) of the CRPF. 
• Members of the Parliament watch and ward security will undergo training at a CISF center. This training will focus on human and goods frisking, aligning with the new security measures.

CISF’s Role Since 2001

• The CISF’s role in securing central government buildings in the national capital dates back to the 2001 terrorist attack on Parliament. 
• The Government Building Security (GBS) unit of the CISF was established, entrusted with the security of key buildings such as the North and South blocks, Cabinet Secretariat, Vigyan Bhawan, CBI headquarters, UPSC building, and the CGO complex.

CISF’s Charter and Current Responsibilities

• The GBS’s charter is to “maintain a high level of security, including contingency response, access control, and conduct of anti-sabotage checks.” 
• As a central armed police force (CAPF), the CISF currently guards various central government ministry buildings in Delhi, installations in the nuclear and aerospace domain, 67 civil airports, and the Delhi Metro.