19-December-2023-Daily-Current-Affairs

78 MPS SUSPENDED; OPPOSITION CALLS IT ‘MURDER OF DEMOCRACY’

GS 2 (POLITY AND GOVERNANCE): SOURCE – THE HINDU

The ongoing Winter Session of Parliament witnessed a significant upheaval as 78 Members of Parliament (MPs) were suspended, sparking heightened tensions between the Opposition and the government. The suspension, totaling 92 MPs in this session, elicited strong reactions from opposition leaders, terming it a “murder of democracy.” The protest stemmed from the demand for a statement from Home Minister Amit Shah regarding a security breach in the Lok Sabha.

Escalation of Tensions:

• Suspension of 78 MPs in a single day, escalating the Opposition-government standoff.
• Previous large-scale suspension in 1989 involving 63 MPs.

Key Suspended Figures:

• Prominent leaders suspended, including Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, T.R. Baalu, Dayanidhi Maran, and Saugata Roy.
• Almost 50% reduction in Opposition strength in the Rajya Sabha.

Parliamentary Proceedings Amid Chaos:

• Bills passed amid repeated adjournments and disruptions.
• Lok Sabha Speaker’s letter and subsequent suspension after continuous protests.

Suspension Dynamics:

• Thirty-three Lok Sabha MPs suspended during chaotic proceedings.
• Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi’s resolution for suspension passed by voice vote.

Reasons for Suspension:

• Opposition MPs demanding a statement from Home Minister Amit Shah on a recent security breach.
• Additional suspension pending the Privileges Committee’s report for three Congress members involved in protest actions.

Rajya Sabha Unrest:

• Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar rejecting 22 notices for a debate on the security breach.
• Suspension of 45 members amid pandemonium, marking a historic high in large-scale suspensions.

Conclusion:

The suspension of 78 Opposition MPs in a single day stands as a remarkable and contentious event, surpassing past instances of widespread suspensions. The ongoing conflict underscores the strained relationship between the Opposition and the ruling government, with accusations of autocracy and a disregard for democratic norms. As parliamentary proceedings continue amidst disruptions, the implications of such confrontations on the democratic fabric of the nation remain a subject of intense debate and concern.

ED SUMMONS CM AGAIN IN EXCISE CASE

GS 2 (POLITY AND GOVERNANCE): SOURCE – THE HINDU

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued a second summons to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in connection with the Delhi excise policy case. The case, rooted in alleged irregularities during the formation and implementation of the Delhi excise policy (2021-22), has witnessed prior summons and allegations of corruption, leading to the withdrawal of the policy. This move marks the latest development in an ongoing investigation that has already seen the arrest of senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders.

Repeat Summons to CM:

• ED issues a second summons to Arvind Kejriwal in the Delhi excise policy case.
• Earlier summons on November 2 faced non-compliance, with Kejriwal citing legal concerns.

Basis of the Case:

• FIR alleges multiple irregularities in the formation and execution of the Delhi excise policy.
• Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe initiated, and AAP leaders already under judicial custody.

Arrests of AAP Leaders:

• Senior AAP leaders Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh in judicial custody in the same case.
• ED arrested Singh, a Rajya Sabha member, while Sisodia faced CBI arrest in February.

BJP’s Response:

• BJP calls for Kejriwal to cooperate with the investigation and cease making excuses.
• BJP asserts that the ED summons reflects the fear of Kejriwal challenging Prime Minister Modi.

AAP’s Stance:

• AAP claims the summons indicates the BJP’s attempt to stifle those questioning the Prime Minister.
• Accusations of arrests and suspensions against those challenging Prime Minister Modi.

Conclusion:

As Arvind Kejriwal faces a renewed summons from the ED in the Delhi excise policy case, the unfolding developments underscore the political and legal complexities surrounding the investigation. The arrest of senior AAP leaders and the ongoing tussle between the AAP and the BJP injects a charged atmosphere into the proceedings, demanding careful scrutiny by legal experts.

PM MODI GUARANTEES TO MAKE INDIA THIRD LARGEST ECONOMIC SUPERPOWER IN HIS THIRD TERM

GS 3 (ECONOMY): SOURCE – THE HINDU

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has articulated a vision for India to emerge as the world’s third-largest economic power during his third consecutive term. This pledge came during the inauguration of multiple development projects in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, with an estimated value exceeding ₹19,000 crore. The projects span various sectors, including Railways, electricity, roads, drinking water supply, and the development of ghats along the Ganga river.

Economic Superpower Vision:

• PM Modi’s commitment to positioning India as the third-largest global economic superpower.
• Stresses the interconnected development paradigm: “When Kashi develops, U.P. develops, and when U.P. develops, India develops.”

Diverse Development Initiatives:

• Inauguration and foundation laying for projects across key sectors signify a multi-faceted approach to development.
• Projects encompass Railways, electricity, roads, water supply, and enhancement of Ganga river ghats.

Four Castes of Development:

• PM Modi emphasizes the significance of youth, farmers, the poor, and women as the four castes of development.
• Strengthening these segments is positioned as a pivotal strategy for India’s overall strengthening.

Neglected Purvanchal Region:

• Acknowledging historical neglect, PM Modi underscores the focus on the Purvanchal region’s development.
• Attributes the shift to addressing long-standing disparities and serving the people of the region.

Vande Bharat Train Inauguration:

• In conjunction with the development projects, PM Modi flags off the second Vande Bharat train connecting Varanasi and New Delhi.
• Symbolic of the government’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and infrastructure.

Conclusion:

Prime Minister Modi’s articulation of India’s ascent as the third-largest economic power, coupled with the inauguration of diverse development projects, reflects a comprehensive vision for national progress. The emphasis on neglected regions and the inclusive development of key segments aligns with the broader goal of fostering a robust and equitable growth trajectory for the country. The Vande Bharat train inauguration further underscores the commitment to advancing transportation infrastructure for enhanced connectivity.

GRASS-ROOT DEMOCRACY AS A BULWARK AGAINST MAOISTS

GS 3 (SECURITY): SOURCE – THE HINDU

The recently concluded Assembly elections in Chhattisgarh have underscored the intricate dynamics of tribal votes, constituting 34% of the state’s electorate. The prevalence of Maoist insurgency in tribal regions, particularly Bastar, adds complexity to the democratic process. The Maoist stronghold, marked as Schedule Five areas, often witnesses low voter turnout due to boycott calls, revealing challenges to democratic participation.

Maoist-Affected Areas and Voter Turnout:

• Maoist-affected regions such as Bijapur and Konta experienced dismal voter turnout, as low as 3% to 4%.
• The implications of low turnout hint at challenges to democracy in the backdrop of Maoist influence.

Maoists’ Paradox in Democracy:

• Maoists’ call for boycotts contradicts their claim of fighting for the people’s cause, creating a paradox.
• Tribal population faces the dilemma of participating in the democratic process despite Maoist opposition.

Disillusionment and Tribal Assertions:

• Trends indicate a shift where tribal populations, once ignoring boycott calls, now exhibit disillusionment.
• Enhanced awareness and tribal assertions, as seen in the Pathalgadi movement in Jharkhand, reveal evolving aspirations.

PESA Act and Grassroots Empowerment:

• Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA) are pivotal for tribal empowerment.
• Despite its enactment in 1996, states have not implemented PESA effectively, creating a gap exploited by Maoists.

Nurturing Tribal Leadership:

• Addressing the Maoist challenge involves nurturing tribal leadership and acknowledging their voices.
• Resolution requires going beyond security and development, emphasizing grassroots democracy aligned with tribal aspirations.

Conclusion:

The democratic landscape in Maoist-affected tribal areas necessitates a nuanced approach. Voter turnout challenges underscore the Maoist paradox, calling for a reevaluation of strategies. Implementing PESA in its true spirit becomes a critical enabler for mainstreaming tribal communities, rendering the Maoist influence irrelevant. Nurturing tribal leadership and acknowledging their aspirations emerge as essential components in the long-term resolution of the Maoist challenge, moving beyond reactionary responses to sustained attention to grassroots democracy.

1 IN 5 GIRLS, 1 IN 6 BOYS STILL MARRIED AS CHILDREN IN INDIA: LANCET

GS 3 (SOCIETY): SOURCE – INDIAN EXPRESS

A recent study published in the Lancet Global Health sheds light on the persisting issue of child marriages in India, emphasizing the need for urgent attention. Despite legislative measures and awareness initiatives, the prevalence remains alarming, particularly affecting the lives of young girls.

Prevalence Rates:

• 1 in 5 girls and 1 in 6 boys continue to be victims of child marriage.
• Reduction in child marriage between 2019 and 2021 was less significant compared to the period between 2006 and 2016.
• The prevalence of girl child marriage declined from 49% in 1993 to 22% in 2021.

Regional Disparities:

• Six states/Union Territories witnessed an increase in the prevalence of child marriage among girls during 2016–2021.

Legal Framework:

• The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, sets the legal age of marriage for men at 21 and women at 18.
• The Prohibition of Child Marriage (Amendment) Bill, 2021, aims to raise the minimum age of marriage for females to 21.

Human Rights Concern:

• Child marriage is recognized as a human rights violation and a form of sexual and gender-based violence.
• It results in adverse health consequences, hindering the full potential of affected boys and girls.

Global Goals:

• The Sustainable Development Goal target 5.3 seeks to eliminate child marriage in girls by 2030.

Initiatives:

• Programs like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao work towards raising awareness about gender equality and discouraging child marriages.

Conclusion:

The study underscores the urgency to address the persisting challenge of child marriages in India, emphasizing the role of both legal reforms and societal awareness programs in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Efforts must be intensified to safeguard the rights and well-being of young girls and boys affected by this social menace.

INDIA, OMAN ADOPT VISION DOCUMENT TO EXPAND TIES

GS 2 (INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS): SOURCE – TIMES OF INDIA

India and Oman, cementing their diplomatic ties, have jointly embraced a forward-looking document titled ‘A Partnership For the Future.’ This collaborative vision, conceived during the visit of the Sultan of Oman, reflects a shared commitment to strengthen their relationship and aligns with the development aspirations outlined in Oman Vision 2040 and India’s ‘Amrit Kaal.’

Synergies in Development:

• The joint vision document recognizes the convergence between Oman Vision 2040 and India’s development objectives, fostering a collaborative approach.

Focused Areas:

• Emphasizes collaboration in digital connectivity, medical tourism, maritime security, hospitality, space, agriculture, and food security.

India-Oman Relations:

• Oman, a cornerstone of India’s West Asia policy, holds a strategic partnership since 2008.
• A vital interlocutor at international forums, including GCC, Arab League, and IORA.
• Hosts a substantial Indian Diaspora of 7 lakh people.

Economic Ties:

• Bilateral trade surged from USD 5.4 billion in 2020-21 to USD 12.3 billion in 2022-23.
• India emerged as the second-largest market for Oman’s crude oil exports in 2022.

Rupay Debit Card and Connectivity Corridor:

• The launch of the Rupay debit card in Oman in October 2022 strengthens financial ties.
• Oman’s pivotal role in the proposed India-Middle-East-Europe Connectivity Corridor (IMEEC) underscores its significance in regional infrastructure projects.

Conclusion:

The adoption of ‘A Partnership For the Future’ underscores the mutual commitment of India and Oman to deepen cooperation across diverse sectors. With a focus on shared developmental goals and strengthened economic ties, this joint vision paves the way for a robust and enduring partnership between the two nations.

 

AKASH WEAPON SYSTEM (AWS)

GS 3 (SECURITY): SOURCE – INDIAN EXPRESS

India achieved a historic milestone during Air Force Exercise Astrashakti-2023, showcasing the capability to engage four aerial targets simultaneously at a 25 km range using a single firing unit.

• This remarkable feat, conducted with the Akash Weapon System (AWS), positions India as the first country to demonstrate such prowess.
• The AWS, designed and developed by DRDO, serves as a Short Range Surface to Air Missile System, offering protection against air attacks for vulnerable areas.
• Notably, it is integrated with the Indian Air Force and Indian Army, equipped with the ability to simultaneously engage multiple targets in Group Mode or Autonomous Mode, featuring built-in Electronic Counter-Counter Measures (ECCM) capabilities.