Indian Polity and Governance (Part 2): July 2025 Current Affairs | Current Affairs & General Knowledge - CLAT PDF Download

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar Resigns

Why in News?

In an unexpected development, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned from his post on July 21, coinciding with the opening day of the Monsoon session of Parliament. Citing health concerns and following medical advice, Dhankhar submitted his resignation to President Droupadi Murmu, invoking Article 67(a) of the Constitution. He is now the third Vice President in India’s history to resign mid-term, following V. V. Giri and R. Venkataraman, who also resigned to contest presidential elections.

Key Takeaways

• Dhankhar's resignation comes two years before the end of his term, which was due to conclude in 2027.
• The resignation process is straightforward, requiring only a written notice to the President.
• An election must be held to fill the vacancy left by the Vice President's resignation.

Additional Details

• Resignation Procedure: According to Article 67 of the Constitution, a Vice President can resign at any time by submitting a written resignation to the President. Once accepted, the resignation takes immediate effect without needing any further approval.
• Succession: The Constitution does not provide for an acting Vice-President. In the interim, the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, currently Harivansh Narayan Singh, will preside over the House.
• Election Timeline: Unlike the President's post, there is no fixed deadline for filling a Vice-Presidential vacancy, but the election must be conducted "as soon as possible." The Election Commission is responsible for scheduling.
• Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible for the role of Vice-President, a candidate must be an Indian citizen, at least 35 years old, and qualified to be elected as a member of the Rajya Sabha.
• Election Process: The Vice-President is elected by an electoral college consisting of members from both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Voting occurs through a secret ballot using the proportional representation system.
• Tenure of New Vice President: A newly elected Vice President will serve a full five-year term from the date of assuming office, irrespective of the predecessor's remaining term.
• The Vice President plays a crucial role as the second-highest constitutional authority in India and is the ex-officio Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha. In the event of a President's absence, the Vice President assumes temporary presidential duties until a new President is elected.

Slovenia Approves Assisted Dying Law

Why in News?

Recently, Slovenia has enacted legislation permitting assisted dying, aligning itself with a growing number of nations that grant terminally ill adults the right to end their lives in the face of unbearable suffering.

Key Takeaways

• Slovenia joins other countries in legalizing assisted dying.
• The law targets terminally ill adults experiencing unbearable suffering.

Additional Details

• Geography:Slovenia is located in Central and Southeastern Europe, bordered by four countries:
  • Austrian border to the north
  • Hungarian border to the northeast
  • Italian border to the west
  • Croatian border to the southeast
• Terrain:The country features a highly elevated landscape, with over 40% mountainous terrain, encompassing regions such as:
  • The European Alps
  • The karstic Dinaric Alps
  • The Pannonian and Danubian lowlands and hills
  • The Mediterranean coast
• Climate: Slovenia has a Mediterranean climate along its coast and a continental climate characterized by mild to hot summers and cold winters in the eastern plateaus and valleys.
• Natural Resources: Key resources include lignite, lead, zinc, building stone, hydropower, and forests.
• Economy: Slovenia boasts a developed market economy primarily focused on services and trade, with major industries such as automotive parts manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and electrical appliances.
• Rivers: Significant rivers in Slovenia include the Drava and Sava.
• Capital City: The capital of Slovenia is Ljubljana.

In summary, Slovenia's new law on assisted dying is a significant development in the realm of healthcare and human rights, reflecting a broader trend towards recognizing individual autonomy in matters of life and death.

National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF)

Why in News?

This year marks a significant change in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) as it will introduce negative scoring for higher educational institutions due to the retraction of papers from journals within the last three calendar years, along with their corresponding citations.

Key Takeaways

• The NIRF was launched by the Ministry of Education in India in 2015 to assess and rank higher education institutions.
• Institutions are evaluated based on defined parameters, including Teaching, Learning & Resources, Research & Professional Practices, Graduation Outcomes, Outreach & Inclusivity, and Perception.
• Every year, NIRF releases rankings across various categories, including Overall, University, Engineering, Management, and more.
• The ranking system groups institutions into two categories: Category A (National Importance, State Universities, etc.) and Category B (Affiliated Institutions).
• NIRF aims to help students make informed educational choices and encourages institutions to enhance their standards.

Additional Details

• Recent Developments: The NIRF 2024 rankings were released in August 2024, showing increased participation with over 6,500 institutions involved, a rise of 86% from the inaugural year.
• Top Performers:
  • IIT Madras has maintained its 1st position in the Overall Category for six consecutive years (2019-2024).
  • Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru tops the Universities Category for the ninth consecutive year (2016-2024).
  • IIM Ahmedabad remains in 1st place for Management for five consecutive years (2020-2024).
  • AIIMS, New Delhi leads in Medical rankings for seven consecutive years (2018-2024).
  • Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai tops the Dental category for three years in a row.
  • Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi has been leading in Agriculture and Allied Sectors for two consecutive years.
• The ranking methodology aims to promote transparency and encourage quality improvements in higher education institutions.

The NIRF continues to evolve, with new measures in place to ensure that institutions strive for excellence in their academic and research endeavors.

Directive on Sugar, Salt Labelling in Packaged Foods

Why in News?

The Health Ministry has mandated that all government departments prominently display the oil and sugar content in popular Indian snacks such as samosas, vada pav, kachoris, pizzas, and burgers. This initiative aims to promote awareness regarding unhealthy food consumption by making this information available in cafeterias, lobbies, meeting rooms, and even on government stationery.

Key Takeaways

• Introduction of sugar and oil content display boards in various public institutions.
• Implementation of warning labels on food items to curb lifestyle diseases.
• Focus on nutritional values and their measurement for better dietary choices.
• Guidelines for sugar and salt intake to promote healthier lifestyles.

Additional Details

• Health Awareness Initiative: The proposal includes the installation of display boards in schools, offices, and public institutions to raise awareness about hidden fats and sugars in everyday foods.
• Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs): The rise in NCDs, accounting for over 66% of deaths in India, particularly affects individuals over the age of 30. Common conditions include heart disease, diabetes, respiratory illnesses, and cancers.
• Nutritional Measurement: Nutrient values of food are determined through laboratory analysis and are presented per 100 grams. This includes assessments of total sugar, saturated fat, and salt content.
• Dietary Guidelines: The 2024 Dietary Guidelines for Indians categorize High Fat, Sugar, and Salt (HFSS) foods and emphasize the need for awareness, especially among children.
• Overall Recommendations: The World Health Organization advises a balanced diet to prevent malnutrition and non-communicable diseases, with specific daily intake recommendations for adults and children.

These efforts by the Health Ministry aim to enhance public awareness and encourage healthier eating choices through visual reminders and guidelines, aligning with broader health initiatives such as Eat Right India and Fit India.

NIRF to Penalise Research Retractions in Rankings from 2024

Why in News?

The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) has announced that starting from the 2024 ranking cycle, it will impose negative scores on higher educational institutions for any research papers that have been retracted from journals. This initiative aims to uphold academic integrity and improve the quality of research output in Indian academia.

Key Takeaways

• NIRF will begin penalising institutions for retracted research papers from 2024.
• A mild deduction in scores will apply for retractions from the previous year.
• A more stringent penalty is expected for 2025 and onwards.

Additional Details

• NIRF Overview: Launched in 2016, NIRF evaluates higher education institutions in India based on five core parameters: Teaching, Learning and Resources; Research and Professional Practices; Graduation Outcomes; Outreach and Inclusivity; and Perception.
• Research Retractions: In 2023, approximately 300 research papers were retracted across Indian institutions, primarily from journals indexed in Scopus and Web of Science.
• Penalty System: In 2024, a mild penalty will be assessed based on the number of retractions. From 2025, harsher penalties will be enforced, especially for serious ethical violations.
• UGC CARE Role: The UGC Consortium for Academic and Research Ethics will play a crucial role in maintaining a list of credible journals, enhancing the quality assessment process.
• Institutions are encouraged to establish Research Integrity Offices, enhance peer review processes, and implement strict publication standards.

The introduction of penalties for research retractions is intended to promote accountability and quality in higher education, potentially improving India's global research reputation.

Stray Dog Feeding: Balancing Compassion and Public Safety

Why in News?

The Supreme Court recently addressed a case involving a Noida resident who faced harassment for feeding stray dogs in shared areas of her housing society. The court suggested that individuals wishing to feed stray dogs should consider doing so within their own homes. This incident underscores the ongoing legal debates about the feeding of community dogs, a contentious issue that has sparked numerous litigations related to constitutional rights, civic duties, and the use of public spaces.

Key Takeaways

• The Supreme Court's observation emphasizes the need for responsible feeding practices of stray dogs.
• Legal frameworks exist to balance animal welfare with public safety regarding community animals.
• The case highlights the tensions between compassionate actions and the rights of other residents in shared living spaces.

Additional Details

• Legal Context: The case arose when a Noida woman reported harassment by the president of her Residents' Welfare Association (RWA) for providing food and water to stray dogs. She alleged that the RWA president destroyed pots meant for the dogs and even harmed sterilized dogs.
• Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023: These rules were established under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, to protect street dogs via sterilization and vaccination while ensuring public safety.
• Supreme Court's Stance: The apex court reinforced earlier legal protections for individuals feeding stray dogs, stating that such actions are not punishable unless they disrupt public order or violate specific laws.
• Feeding Guidelines: The ABC Rules stipulate that feeding of community animals should occur away from high-traffic areas and that designated feeding spots must be kept clean. Feeding should occur at designated times to minimize disruption.

Conclusion

While feeding stray dogs is an act of compassion and is legally protected under specific guidelines, it is crucial to balance this compassion with public safety. The ABC Rules provide a framework that allows for the humane treatment of community dogs while ensuring that shared residential spaces remain orderly and safe for all residents.

The Mental Health of Pilots: The Elephant in the Room

Why in News?

The issue of pilot mental health has gained attention following the preliminary report from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau regarding the Air India Boeing 787 incident in Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025.

Key Takeaways

• Pilot mental health issues significantly impact flight safety.
• Chronic stress, fatigue, and stigma contribute to untreated mental health conditions among pilots.
• Recent regulatory measures and global practices can improve pilot mental health support in India.

Additional Details

• Chronic Stress and Fatigue: Long working hours, night shifts, and frequent time zone changes disrupt sleep patterns, leading to increased fatigue. A study by the European Cockpit Association in 2020 revealed that over 60% of pilots experienced fatigue-related performance issues during flights.
• Sleep Deprivation: Pilots often face the challenge of sleeping on demand in unfamiliar environments, which results in poor-quality rest and mental exhaustion. The crash of Colgan Air Flight 3407 in 2009 was partly due to fatigue from irregular sleep patterns.
• Depression and Suicidal Ideation: Factors such as isolation, stress, and lack of support can lead to depression among pilots. The Germanwings Flight 9525 crash in 2015 emphasized the dangers of undiagnosed depression.
• Financial and Career Pressure: Financial burdens from pilot training, job insecurity, and emotional distress have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to increased psychological issues among airline staff.

Regulation of Airlines in India

• DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation): The primary regulator for civil aviation in India, overseeing air safety, airworthiness, licensing, and airline operations.
• Ministry of Civil Aviation: Responsible for policy formulation and coordination in civil aviation.
• Airports Authority of India (AAI): Manages airport infrastructure and ensures air navigation safety.
• BCAS (Bureau of Civil Aviation Security): Regulates aviation security standards at airports and airlines.

Steps Taken by the Indian Government

• DGCA Mental Health Guidelines (2021): The DGCA issued guidelines requiring airlines to implement Peer Support Programs (PSPs) and conduct confidential mental health assessments, allowing pilots to report stress or anxiety without fear of job loss.

Global Practices to Adopt for Pilot Mental Health

• Peer Support Programs (PSPs): Establish confidential peer-led counseling services to encourage early intervention, similar to Germany’s Lufthansa program.
• Non-punitive Medical Disclosure Policies: Allow pilots to self-report mental health issues without the risk of losing their license, ensuring safe reintegration after treatment, akin to the U.S. FAA’s HIMS program.
• Mandatory Mental Health Training & Awareness: Introduce regular mental health education and stress management workshops for flight crews, as seen in Australia’s CASA, which mandates mental health modules in pilot training.

Addressing the mental health of pilots is critical for ensuring flight safety and supporting the well-being of those in the aviation industry. By adopting effective practices and fostering an open culture surrounding mental health, substantial improvements can be made.

Government vs Social Media Platforms on Safe Harbour Doctrine

Why in News?

The Centre has defended its expanded use of Section 79 of the Information Technology (IT) Act, which establishes the safe harbour doctrine, before the Karnataka High Court. This comes in response to a legal challenge from social media platform X (formerly Twitter) regarding alleged government overreach in the mechanisms for content removal.

Key Takeaways

• The Centre's stance involves regulating online content through intermediaries like social media platforms.
• The case highlights the tension between Section 79, which offers protection from liability, and Section 69A, which allows blocking of content under specific circumstances.

Additional Details

• Section 79: This section protects intermediaries from liability for third-party content, but this protection is lost if they fail to comply with takedown notices.
• Section 69A: Grants the government the authority to block content on specific grounds, such as national security and public order, with procedural safeguards in place.
• X argues that the government is misusing Section 79 for issuing blocking orders that should only be permitted under Section 69A, labeling the Sahyog Portal a "censorship portal."
• The Sahyog Portal, developed under the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) of the Union Home Ministry, aims to regulate online content. As of March 2025, 38 intermediaries, including major tech companies, have onboarded, but X has refused, citing legal concerns. The government justifies this expanded regulation by arguing that algorithms used in social media amplify harmful content without oversight, which is distinct from traditional media that employs editorial control.
• From a constitutional perspective, the debate touches upon the balance between free speech and reasonable restrictions as outlined in Article 19(2) of the Constitution. The government contends that Section 79 allows for broader actions to address unlawful content, emphasizing the need to balance freedom of expression with societal safety and national security.
• This case marks a significant legal development in clarifying the boundaries of the safe harbour doctrine, the responsibilities of online platforms, and the state's role in regulating digital content.

Safe Havens No More: Sexual Violence in Workplaces and Educational Institutions

Why in News?

Recently, a tragic incident occurred where a 20-year-old student from Odisha died after setting herself ablaze due to ignored sexual harassment complaints. This highlighted the failures of redress mechanisms, particularly the Internal Complaint Committees (ICCs), raising concerns about the effectiveness of systems meant to protect individuals in educational and workplace settings.

Key Takeaways

• Rising sexual violence despite stringent laws indicates systemic failures.
• Inadequate implementation of ICCs contributes to the problem.
• Social stigma and underreporting hinder accurate crime statistics.
• Lack of awareness about rights and reporting mechanisms exacerbates the issue.

Additional Details

• Inadequate Implementation of Legal Mechanisms: Many institutions either do not establish ICCs or form them without properly trained members, leading to ineffective responses. For instance, the University Grants Commission (UGC) reported in 2022 that over 150 colleges in India had not constituted ICCs, despite the mandatory provisions of the 2013 POSH Act.
• Institutional Apathy and Lack of Accountability: ICCs, mandated under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013, often fail to function proactively, as demonstrated by the Odisha incident where the state government had to compel colleges to form ICCs within 24 hours.
• Underreporting and Social Stigma: Fear of backlash, victim-blaming, and lack of faith in legal systems lead many women to avoid reporting crimes. According to the NCRB 2022, there were 445,256 registered crimes against women, reflecting a 4% increase from 2021, with many cases unreported.
• Lack of Awareness and Sensitisation: A 2023 survey by the All India Democratic Women’s Association (AIDWA) revealed that over 60% of women students in rural colleges were unaware of the existence of ICCs, indicating a significant gap in education regarding rights and reporting procedures.
• The effectiveness of ICCs varies across institutions, often limited by a lack of proper training and awareness. Legal reforms, such as the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act of 2013, and institutional mechanisms like the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, aim to address these issues, but enforcement remains inconsistent.

Steps for Improvement

• Strict Enforcement of ICC Guidelines: Ensure timely formation and training of ICCs with regular audits and penalties for non-compliance.
• Transparent Grievance Redressal Systems: Establish time-bound complaint resolution mechanisms, publicly accessible reporting channels, and third-party oversight to reduce bias.
• Protection and Support for Victims: Guarantee anonymity and non-retaliation, and ensure access to counselling and legal aid for complainants to build trust in the system.

Mains PYQ

[UPSC 2017] Is the National Commission for Women able to strategize and tackle the problems that women face at both public and private spheres? Give reasons in support of your answer.

This question highlights the worrying trend of sexual violence occurring in spaces often considered safe, such as school and college campuses or workplaces. It directly addresses the effectiveness of institutional mechanisms by asking about the ability of the National Commission for Women (NCW) to tackle the challenges women face in both public and private spheres.

Supreme Court Allows Secretly Recorded Spousal Conversations as Court Evidence

Why in News?

The Supreme Court of India has made a significant ruling that allows the use of secretly recorded conversations between spouses as admissible evidence in matrimonial disputes, including divorce cases.

Key Takeaways

• The Supreme Court’s ruling overturns a previous High Court decision regarding the admissibility of secret recordings.
• The decision emphasizes the balance between the right to privacy and the right to a fair trial in matrimonial disputes.
• Concerns about the implications for gender equality and digital access in legal proceedings have been raised.

Additional Details

• Spousal Privilege: This legal concept, codified under Section 122 of the Indian Evidence Act, protects private communications between spouses. It states that one spouse cannot be compelled to disclose conversations made by the other during marriage, unless there is consent or the case is between the married individuals themselves.
• Scope and Limitations: In divorce cases, spouses can present corroborative evidence for allegations such as cruelty or adultery. Recently, electronic evidence like texts and recordings have been included, although some High Courts had previously hesitated to admit secret recordings due to privacy concerns.
• The Supreme Court’s Ruling: The Court ruled that secret recordings are admissible if they are relevant and verifiable. This ruling aligns with a precedent set in a 1973 bribery case, indicating that such recordings act like a "digital eavesdropper."
• Privacy vs. Fair Trial: The ruling raises questions about privacy, which the Supreme Court recognized as a fundamental right in 2017. The judges acknowledged that when spouses resort to snooping, it reflects an eroded trust in the relationship.
• Gender Disparities: The Mobile Gender Gap Report indicates that women in India are significantly less likely to own smartphones than men, potentially disadvantaging them in cases where digital evidence is critical.
• Legal and Social Implications: This ruling redefines spousal privilege, emphasizing the protection of marital sanctity rather than privacy. The judgment highlights the need for legislative clarity on the boundaries of surveillance in domestic relationships.

The Supreme Court's ruling on the admissibility of secretly recorded conversations represents a pivotal change in Indian matrimonial law. It reflects the judiciary's adaptation to modern realities while underscoring the importance of addressing privacy issues, gender inequalities, and ethical considerations in the legal process.

Fencing Out the Voter in Bihar’s Poll Roll Preparation

Why in News?

The ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar poses a significant risk of disenfranchisement for millions of citizens. Announced by the Election Commission of India (ECI) in June 2025, this revision has raised serious concerns regarding the right to vote, which is fundamental to democratic participation.

Key Takeaways

• The SIR is criticized for being opaque and hastily implemented, potentially violating constitutional norms.
• Exclusion of commonly held identification documents from acceptable proof creates unnecessary barriers for voters.
• The Supreme Court has expressed concern about the revision process and its implications for voter rights.

Additional Details

• Electoral Roll Revision: This process is essential for ensuring that only eligible voters are included and ineligible names are removed. However, the current SIR raises doubts about its adherence to fairness and legality.
• Arbitrary Classifications: The ECI's notification lists 11 acceptable forms of identification while excluding common documents like Aadhaar and ration cards, which lacks logical justification.
• Judicial Oversight: The Supreme Court's intervention is crucial, as the ambiguity surrounding document acceptance risks disenfranchisement and requires urgent legal clarity.

The SIR in Bihar illustrates how electoral processes can significantly impact democratic engagement. The ECI's approach, marred by arbitrary classifications and burdensome documentation requirements, threatens to disenfranchise citizens. It is imperative for the Supreme Court to uphold the right to vote as a fundamental democratic guarantee, ensuring equality and fairness in the electoral process.

Preserving India’s Linguistic Secularism: Constitutional Values and Cultural Unity

Why in News?

Amid increasing instances of language-based tensions and cultural exclusion, there is a pressing need to reaffirm India’s constitutional commitment to linguistic secularism. This is essential for safeguarding national unity and celebrating cultural diversity.

Key Takeaways

• India's linguistic diversity is protected under the framework of secularism.
• The Constitution provides several safeguards for linguistic plurality.
• Language politics can lead to social fragmentation if not addressed properly.

Additional Details

• Linguistic Secularism: In the Indian context, secularism extends beyond religion to include language as a critical aspect of cultural identity and democratic coexistence. Unlike Western secularism, which focuses on separating religion from the state, Indian secularism advocates for inclusive pluralism.
• Constitutional Provisions:The Indian Constitution has several articles that uphold linguistic diversity:
  • Article 343: Establishes Hindi in Devanagari as the official language of the Union while allowing states to adopt their own languages.
  • Eighth Schedule: Contains 22 scheduled languages that receive recognition and development support from the government.
  • Article 29: Empowers citizens to preserve their distinct language, script, or culture, ensuring that language does not become a basis for discrimination.
• Official Language vs. National Language: Contrary to common belief, India does not have a designated national language. Hindi is the official language at the central level, but states can operate in their own official languages, fostering a decentralized approach that maintains harmony while sometimes sparking regional tensions.
• Language Politics: Recent incidents of violence against non-local speakers highlight the tensions arising from language-based identity politics, which can undermine societal unity and the inclusive ethos of India's Constitution.
• Role of Institutions: Preserving linguistic secularism is both a constitutional and political obligation. Political parties, civil society, and educational institutions must promote tolerance and inter-lingual understanding to enhance national unity.
• Call for Respect: Respecting all languages, including dialects and mother tongues, is essential for fostering social harmony and inclusive development in India.

In conclusion, protecting India’s linguistic secularism is vital for maintaining social cohesion and promoting a flourishing democratic society. Respecting linguistic diversity is not only a constitutional requirement but also a moral commitment that strengthens the fabric of Indian identity.

The Issue with Criminalising All Adolescent Relationships

Why in News?

The Supreme Court of India’s 2025 sentencing judgment in Re: Right to Privacy of Adolescents represents a significant moment in Indian jurisprudence, where the judiciary addresses the limitations of a rigid legal framework in the context of adolescent relationships.

Key Takeaways

• The case involved a 14-year-old girl and her 25-year-old partner, highlighting the tension between the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the realities of adolescent sexuality.
• The Supreme Court used Article 142 of the Constitution to seek justice beyond the confines of the law, initiating a broader conversation about adolescent rights and the need for legal reform.

Additional Details

• Background of the Case: The girl's mother initiated the criminal case, leading to the girl being institutionalised and later fleeing due to stigma. The couple married and had a child before the girl turned 18, resulting in the man's arrest under POCSO.
• Calcutta High Court's Ruling: The High Court reversed the conviction in 2022, citing socio-economic context but faced criticism for its language regarding adolescent sexuality.
• Supreme Court's Intervention: Following public outcry, the Supreme Court restored the conviction but refrained from imposing a sentence, constituting an expert committee to assess the woman’s well-being.
• The Court concluded that true justice lay in not sentencing the man, as the burden of punishment would primarily affect the young woman.
• This case highlights the ongoing debate about the appropriateness of the POCSO Act in addressing consensual adolescent relationships. It raises questions about whether the law adequately captures the complexities of adolescent agency and consent, especially in patriarchal and economically constrained environments. 
• The Supreme Court's decision serves as a reminder that laws meant to protect can sometimes inflict harm when they do not consider the intricacies of human relationships and adolescent development.

Gurugram’s Urban Crisis - Flooded Streets and the Collapse of Publicness

Why in News?

The urban crisis in Gurugram, characterized by recurrent flooding and inadequate civic infrastructure, highlights significant socio-psychological and governance failures that impact public welfare and inclusive urban planning.

Key Takeaways

• Gurugram experiences annual urban flooding and infrastructural failures despite being a hub for Fortune 500 companies.
• The city's urban planning reflects persistent rural attitudes that prioritize private gains over public benefit.
• Privatization has historically excluded public welfare considerations in urban development.
• Modern urban developments often replicate rural exclusivity, undermining civic life.

Additional Details

• Recurring Urban Flooding: Gurugram, known as the "Millennium City," faces significant issues during the monsoon season, revealing a stark contradiction between high real estate expectations and the failure of basic civic amenities.
• Persistence of Ruralism: The planning in Gurugram continues to reflect village-level caste-centric attitudes, where the concept of public good is often neglected in favor of private interests.
• Historical Context: The privatization of urban development began with the Delhi Land and Finance (DLF) corporation in 1981, establishing a pattern of exclusionary practices that persist today.
• Technological Misuse: While digital tools are intended to enhance transparency, they are often manipulated to serve private interests, further complicating the governance landscape.

To address Gurugram's crisis, a shift towards collective responsibility and civic participation is essential. True urban development requires a commitment to public welfare over individualistic attitudes, fostering a sense of shared urban identity.

Untouchability Cases Drop, Pendency Rises

Why in News?

The 2022 Annual Report on the Protection of Civil Rights (PCR) Act, 1955, highlights a significant decrease in the registration of untouchability-related offences and reveals systemic inefficiencies in law enforcement.

Key Takeaways

• Only 13 cases were registered under the PCR Act in 2022, marking a decline compared to previous years.
• No state or Union Territory declared any area as “untouchability-prone.”
• There were 1,242 cases pending in courts, with only 1 conviction out of 31 disposed cases.
• In contrast, 62,501 cases were filed under the SC/ST Act, indicating its increasing application.
• 18,936 inter-caste marriage couples received financial incentives, although data from several major states was missing.

Additional Details

• Protection of Civil Rights (PCR) Act, 1955: Enacted under Article 35 to implement Article 17, this act criminalizes untouchability. Originally titled the Untouchability Offences Act, 1955, it was renamed and strengthened in 1976.
• Key Provisions:
  • No provision for pardon; any conviction results in disqualification from elections.
  • Penalties include up to 2 years imprisonment, a fine of ₹20,000, or both.
  • Any right denied due to untouchability is regarded as a civil right under the Act.
• SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989: This act aims to curb atrocities and provide victim protection and rehabilitation, establishing special courts and police cells, and allowing firearms for self-defense for vulnerable SC/ST individuals.

Understanding ‘Untouchability’ and Its Abolition

• Definition: Untouchability refers to social discrimination based on caste, historically excluding certain communities from public, religious, and social spaces.
• Constitutional Safeguard: Article 17 of the Constitution of India abolishes untouchability and prohibits its practice in any form.
• Legal Status: Any disability arising from untouchability is a punishable offence under Article 17.
• Nature of the Right: Article 17 is an absolute fundamental right with no exceptions, applicable to both state and private actors.
• Lack of Definition: The term “untouchability” is not explicitly defined in the Constitution or related legislation but is understood as caste-based social discrimination.
• Scope of Discrimination: Untouchability includes denial of access to public utilities, places of worship, public services, education, and market services.

Various Judgments Related to Untouchability

• Devarajiah v. Padmanna (1961): Reaffirmed that Article 17 aims to eliminate inhuman treatment based on caste distinctions.
• State of Karnataka v. Appa Balu Ingale (1993): The court equated untouchability to slavery, emphasizing the need to eradicate the caste system for democracy and the rule of law.
• Union of India v. People’s Union for Democratic Rights (1982): The court stated that violations of Article 17 by private individuals require state intervention.
• Union of India v. Safai Karamchari Andolan (2014): The court mandated the implementation of the Manual Scavengers and Dry Latrines (Prohibition) Act, 1993, directing rehabilitation, skill training, and compensation for families of victims of sewer deaths.

PM Professorships to Bolster Research in State Universities

Why in News?

The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) has introduced the Prime Minister Professorships program to leverage the knowledge of retired scientists. This initiative aims to enhance the mentoring capabilities of state universities that are developing their research ecosystems.

Key Takeaways

• The program utilizes the expertise of retired scientists and industry professionals to mentor state universities.
• It aims to strengthen India's R&D ecosystem through the Partnerships for Accelerated Innovation and Research (PAIR) programme.
• The hub and spoke model connects top-tier institutions with emerging universities to enhance collaborative research.

Additional Details

• Hub and Spoke Model: This model consists of hubs, which are top-ranking institutions (within the top 25 of the NIRF), and spokes, which include public universities and selected NITs/IIITs. One hub can mentor up to seven spokes.
• Goals of the Program:The initiative aims to:
  • Strengthen research and innovation in emerging institutions.
  • Improve access to advanced infrastructure and best practices.
  • Facilitate impactful research that is internationally competitive.
  • Establish collaborative networks among institutions.
• The program addresses the need for structured mentoring in state universities to develop world-class research and innovation capabilities.
• Eligibility Criteria: Eligible candidates include superannuated faculty/scientists and active professionals with a proven track record in research and innovation. Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs) can also apply, provided they are willing to relocate full-time to the host university.

The PM Professorships program aims to cultivate a robust research culture in state universities by connecting them with experienced mentors and resources, ultimately enhancing India's overall research and development landscape.

Secularism — Implicit from Day One, Explicit in 1976

Why in News?

The discussion of secularism in India has gained prominence due to its complex historical context and ongoing relevance in contemporary society. This discourse is rooted in philosophical debates about the role of religion in governance, particularly in a diverse nation like India.

Key Takeaways

• Secularism in India is a unique model that diverges from both the French and American interpretations.
• Jawaharlal Nehru's vision of secularism emphasized rational governance over organized religion.
• The Indian Constitution incorporates secular ideals, although the term was explicitly included only in 1976.

Additional Details

• Nehru's Perspective: Jawaharlal Nehru, a pivotal figure in shaping Indian secularism, criticized organized religion for fostering dogma and superstition. He envisioned a secular polity where religion did not influence statecraft.
• Indian Secularism: Unlike the French model of laïcité, which demands strict separation, Indian secularism accommodates religious pluralism while maintaining state neutrality. This model ensures the autonomy of all religions.
• Historical Roots: The concept of secularism in India has deeper indigenous roots, as seen in Emperor Ashoka’s edicts promoting respect for all religions. Important historical documents like the 1928 Motilal Nehru Committee Report and the 1931 Karachi Resolution advocated for a secular state.
• International Comparisons: Other nations, such as the UK and Ireland, have state religions but ensure religious freedom. Models like Pakistan and Sri Lanka recognize minority rights despite endorsing a state religion.

The future of secularism in India hinges on defining what kind of secularism the country aspires to practice. While critiques of past models are valid, the danger lies in replacing them with majoritarian impositions that undermine constitutional principles and ethical governance.