💥Join UPSC 2027,2028 Mentorship (July Batch) + XFactor Notes & Microthemes PDF
Talk to Mentor

Civilsdaily

Login

GS Paper: GS2

  • The grueling course of litigation in India

    Why in the News?

    At the National Conference of the District Judiciary, President Droupadi Murmu emphasized the problem of court delays. She pointed out that these delays are causing people to hesitate in approaching the courts.

    What are the primary causes of delays in the Indian judicial system?

    • Ineffective Case Management: The lack of proper scheduling and timelines for filing documents, examining witnesses, and scheduling hearings leads to inefficiencies and prolonged delays.
      • Lawyers often seek adjournments due to unpredictable scheduling or strategic reasons, leading to repeated postponements of hearings.
    • Overburdened Judges: District court judges are often under pressure to prioritize cases based on higher court directives, skewing case management in favor of meeting deadlines rather than ensuring timely justice.
    • Incentive Structure for Judges: The “units system” rewards judges for disposing of simpler cases, often causing more complex cases to be delayed or neglected.
    • Extended Stays and Interim Orders: Litigants may use stays as a strategic delay tactic, reducing the urgency to resolve cases quickly.
    • Unpredictable Witness Testimonies: Disruptions in the court schedule and procedural delays make it difficult for witnesses to attend court, further contributing to trial delays.

    Status of the case pending in India: 

    • Total Pending Cases: As of 2024, there are over 58.59 lakh cases pending in high courts alone, with a staggering total of more than 51 million (5.1 crore) cases across all court levels, including district and Supreme Court.
    • Long-standing Cases: Nearly 62,000 cases have been pending for over 30 years, with some dating back to 1952. In high courts, about 23% of cases have been pending for over ten years2.
    • High Court Breakdown: The Allahabad High Court has the highest backlog, with over seven lakh cases pending as of 2018. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court currently has around 83,000 cases pending, marking a significant increase over the past decade despite an increase in the number of judges

    What impact do these delays have on public perception and access to justice?

    • Erosion of Trust: Delays make the judicial process appear slow and ineffective, leading to public hesitation in approaching courts, fearing that litigation will complicate their lives.
    • Increased Legal Costs: Prolonged cases escalate legal costs for litigants, making justice unaffordable for many.
    • Reluctance to Seek Justice: The “black coat syndrome” highlights how people avoid courts due to the fear of endless adjournments and delays, diminishing access to timely justice.
    • Backlog of Cases: The increasing backlog due to delays creates further congestion in the judicial system, perpetuating a cycle of inefficiency.

    How can reforms improve the efficiency of the judiciary? (Way forward)

    • Improved Case Management Systems: Implementation of Case Flow Management Rules with a focus on enforcing timelines for hearings and case disposal can streamline the process.
    • Reformed Incentive Structures: Reform the “units system” to incentivize judges to handle complex cases more efficiently rather than prioritizing simpler ones.
    • Predictable Scheduling for Lawyers: Providing clear scheduling information to lawyers can reduce unnecessary adjournments and improve case flow.
    • Review of Stay Orders: Limiting the duration of stay orders and making them subject to regular review can discourage their misuse as delay tactics.
      • Introducing real-time case management systems to track case progress and monitor delays could enhance judicial efficiency.
    • Support for Witnesses: Offering financial compensation and providing predictability in court appearances can encourage witnesses to testify without unnecessary delays.

  • [pib] India’s Statement at the 21st ASEAN-India Summit 

    Why in the News?

    In alignment with the theme of this year’s ASEAN Summit—“Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience”—PM Modi laid out the following ten key suggestions for strengthening cooperation.

    Back2Basics: Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)

    • ASEAN, founded in 1967 with the Bangkok Declaration, aims for economic growth, regional peace, and an integrated ASEAN community.
    • The ASEAN Charter, launched in 2008, formalized ASEAN’s legal status and sought to establish a single free-trade area.
    • The ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) was established in 2009, adopting the ASEAN Human Rights Declaration in 2012.
    • ASEAN members comprises Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. East Timor (Timor-Leste) applied for membership in 2011 but is not yet a member.
    • ASEAN Plus Three (China, Japan, South Korea) aims to deepen regional integration among Southeast Asia and East Asian countries.
    • East Asia Summit (EAS), including ASEAN Plus Three + India, Australia, and New Zealand, enhances strategic dialogue and cooperation in the region.

    Ten suggestions by PM Modi for ASEAN Connectivity and Resilience:

    No. Suggestion Details
    1 ASEAN-India Year of Tourism (2025) Declare 2025 as ASEAN-India Year of Tourism, with India committing USD 5 million to promote tourism between India and ASEAN.
    2 Celebrating a Decade of India’s Act East Policy Organize events connecting artists, youth, entrepreneurs, and think tanks, including a Music Festival, Youth Summit, Hackathon, etc.
    3 Women Scientists’ Conclave Hold an annual Women Scientists’ Conclave under the India-ASEAN Science and Technology Fund to promote collaboration and innovation.
    4 Scholarships for ASEAN Students Double the Masters scholarships for ASEAN students at Nalanda University and launch a new scholarship program for ASEAN students in agriculture.
    5 Review of ASEAN-India Trade Agreement Complete the review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement by 2025 to enhance economic ties and build a secure, resilient supply chain.
    6 Disaster Resilience Allocate USD 5 million from the ASEAN-India Fund for disaster resilience, with collaboration between India’s NDMA and ASEAN’s Humanitarian Assistance Centre.
    7 Health Resilience Institutionalize the ASEAN-India Health Ministers Meeting and invite two experts from each ASEAN country to India’s National Cancer Grid Vishwam Conference.
    8 Digital and Cyber Resilience Establish a cyber-policy dialogue between India and ASEAN to strengthen digital and cyber resilience.
    9 Promoting a Green Future Organize workshops on green hydrogen involving experts from India and ASEAN to promote sustainable energy solutions.
    10 Climate Resilience Promote the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” (Plant for Mother) campaign to encourage tree planting and strengthen climate resilience.

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] Evaluate the economic and strategic dimensions of India’s Look East Policy in the context of the post-Cold War international scenario.

    [2015] India is a member of which among the following? (2015)

    1. Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation
    2. Association of South-East Asian Nations
    3. East Asia Summit

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 1, 2 and 3

    (d) India is a member of none of them

     

    https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2063975

  • [pib] Draft National Sports Governance Bill, 2024

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has released the Draft National Sports Governance Bill, 2024 for public comments and suggestions.

    Draft National Sports Governance Bill, 2024: Key Features

    Details
    Sports Regulatory Board of India • Central regulatory authority overseeing National Sports Federations (NSFs).
    • Responsible for granting recognition to NSFs, ensuring governance, financial, and ethical standards are followed.
    • Flexible and autonomous in regulating sports governance without a fixed formula for NSF recognition.
    Governance Structure for Sports Bodies • Applies to the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), Paralympic Committee of India (PCI), and NSFs.
    • Limits Executive Committees (ECs) to 15 members.
    • Leadership positions open to citizens with usual terms and conditions.
    • Encourages NSFs to hire full-time salaried management, led by a CEO.
    Ethical and Governance Standards • Mandatory Ethics Commissions and Dispute Resolution Commissions at the NOC, NPC, and NSF levels.
    • Aligns with international standards to help India host global events like the Olympics.
    Athletes Commissions • Required in NOC, NPC, and all NSFs.
    • Provides athletes a platform to raise concerns and participate in decision-making.
    • Government to provide additional funding.
    Athlete Representation in Governance • At least 10% of voting members in the General Body of NOC, NPC, and NSFs must be sportspersons of outstanding merit (SOMs).
    • At least 2 SOM representatives (one male, one female) must serve on the Executive Committee.
    Safe Sports Policy • Introduces a Safe Sports Policy to protect athletes, especially minors and women, from harassment and abuse.
    • Strict adherence to the POSH Act.
    National Sports Promotion Organisations (NSPOs) • Guidelines for recognizing and regulating NSPOs to support sports governance, athlete development, and sports promotion.
    Appellate Sports Tribunal • Handles sports-related disputes, reducing the burden on civil courts.
    • Provides faster, cheaper, and efficient dispute resolution.
    Ad-hoc Normalisation Committees • The Sports Regulatory Board can form these committees in cases of non-compliance or suspension of sports federations.
    Global Anti-Doping and Ethical Standards • Emphasizes anti-doping measures and compliance with international standards, positioning India as a clean host for global events.
    Public Accountability and Transparency • NOC, NPC, and NSFs subject to the RTI Act with exclusions for performance and medical data, ensuring transparency in sports governance.
    Inclusivity and Gender Representation • At least 30% of the members of Executive Committees and other governing bodies must be female, promoting gender equality in sports.
    Sports Election Panel • IOA, PCI, and NSFs must engage electoral officers from the Sports Election Panel to ensure free and fair elections.
    Use of National Name and Insignia • Only recognized sports bodies will be allowed to use the Indian Flag or national names.
    • Violations can result in fines up to Rs 10 lakhs or imprisonment for up to one year.

    Significance of the Bill:

    • The National Sports Governance Bill, 2024 is significant as it aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in sports governance while ensuring the welfare of athletes.
    • It establishes regulatory frameworks and ethical standards that align India’s sports ecosystem with global practices, fostering a more efficient, fair, and athlete-centric sports environment.

    PYQ:

    [2014] An athlete participates in Olympics for personal triumph and nation’s glory; victors are showered with cash incentives by various agencies, on their return. Discuss the merit of state sponsored talent hunt and its cultivation as against the rationale of a reward mechanism as encouragement.

  • [10th October 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Mental health in India’s material world

    PYQ Relevance:


    Q). Besides being a moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary precondition for sustainable development.” Analyse. (UPSC CSE 2021)

    Q) The public health system has limitations in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that the private sector can help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives do you suggest? (UPSC CSE 2015)

    Mentor’s Comment:  In July, a 26-year-old executive from a multinational consulting firm ended her life due to immense work pressures, shedding light on a critical issue affecting millions of working Indians. In September, a 38-year-old software engineer in Chennai also took his life, battling depression caused by work-related stress. 

    Despite outwardly successful careers, these tragic losses highlight India’s growing mental health crisis, where success is often tied to relentless productivity and material wealth. With over 197 million people suffering from mental health disorders, according to the Lancet Psychiatry Commission, India’s economic growth has increased societal pressures, neglecting mental well-being and fostering disconnection from community and self-awareness. In today’s editorial, we will dive more into the causes and impacts of Mental Health in Indian Society.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    This year’s theme for World Mental Health Day (October 10) focuses on ‘prioritizing mental health in the workplace. India faces a mental health crisis driven by urban stress, financial instability, and intense competition.

    Key points related to Mental Health issues as per WHO: 

    • According to WHO, India has a significant burden of mental health issues with 2443 Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) per 100,000 population.
    • India’s age-adjusted suicide rate is 21.1 per 100,000, among the highest globally.
    • The economic loss due to mental health conditions between 2012-2030 is estimated to be USD 1.03 trillion.

    What are the reasons behind the rising stress and anxiety?

    • Mental Health Epidemic: India is facing a growing mental health crisis, with millions suffering from disorders like depression, anxiety, and stress.
    • Pressures of Urban Living: Urban life, financial instability, and intense competition contribute significantly to rising stress.
    • Material Success vs. Well-being: Despite material success, many people feel isolated and disconnected from their communities, leading to a sense of purposelessness.
    • Consumerism and Social Comparison: In urban areas, consumerism fosters a culture where wealth and luxury goods define status, causing feelings of inadequacy and stress.
    • Fear of Insignificance: As per Ernest Becker’s theory, much of human behavior is driven by the fear of impermanence. People chase material wealth for social validation, but this pursuit neglects self-awareness and deeper emotional needs.
    Mental Health Policy and Legal Frameworks by Govt:

    • National Mental Health Policy, 2014: Promotes a rights-based and participatory approach for quality service delivery.
    • Mental Healthcare Act, 2017: Provides a legal framework that aligns with the UNCRPD (United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities), focusing on protecting the rights of individuals with mental illness, decriminalizing suicide, and ensuring access to mental health services.

    Collective Action, Community as Solutions:

    • Shifting focus to Collective Well-being: The emphasis needs to move from individual success to collective well-being. Strong social connections, supportive communities, and meaningful work are critical to mental health.
    • Examples from other Countries: Initiatives like Brazil’s community gardens promote shared responsibilities, fostering a sense of belonging and combating isolation.
    • Value of Community Living: Community living provides a sustainable alternative to individualistic consumerism by promoting shared responsibility and collective purpose, strengthening social support networks, reducing competition, and offering a sense of purpose.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Community-Based Mental Health Programs: Focus on building strong social connections and support systems through community-based initiatives, promoting collective well-being over individual competition, and addressing isolation.
    • Enhance Accessibility to Affordable Mental Health Services: Expand access to cost-effective, quality mental health care at the primary health care level, ensuring services are available to all, especially in underserved areas.

  • What is fortified rice? Why did the Centre extend the initiative for its distribution of schemes

    Why in the News?

    On October 9, 2024, the Union Cabinet approved extending the free fortified rice supply under welfare programs until December 2028.

    Why Rice Fortification is needed?

    • Widespread Micronutrient Deficiency: India faces a significant public health challenge with micronutrient deficiencies, particularly iron, Vitamin B12, and folic acid. Anaemia, caused by iron deficiency, is a persistent issue affecting large segments of the population, including children, women, and men.
    • Rice as a Staple Food: Given that 65% of India’s population consumes rice as a staple, it is an ideal vehicle to deliver essential micronutrients to combat these deficiencies, helping improve overall health, productivity, and cognitive development.

    Process of Rice Fortification:

    • Fortified Rice Kernels (FRK): The process involves producing fortified rice kernels that are enriched with essential micronutrients such as Iron, Folic Acid, and Vitamin B12.
    • Blending with Regular Rice: These fortified kernels are then blended with regular rice at a ratio prescribed by FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India).
      • Typically, fortified kernels make up 1-2% of the total rice, ensuring consistent delivery of micronutrients without altering the taste or cooking properties of the rice.

    How the Fortification Initiative has fared so far?

    • The rice fortification scheme was implemented in three phases between 2022 and March 2024, with the target of achieving universal coverage in all government schemes by March 2024 successfully met.
    • Fortified rice is now supplied under major welfare programs like the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS), Integrated Child Development Service (ICDS), and PM POSHAN in all states and Union Territories.
    • The initiative is fully funded by the central government, highlighting its commitment to tackling malnutrition and ensuring inclusive nutritional security across the country.

    How can food fortification help reduce malnutrition in India?

    • Combats Micronutrient Deficiencies: Fortifying staple foods with essential nutrients like iron and vitamins helps reduce widespread deficiencies that cause anemia and poor health.
    • Wide Reach: Through existing public programs (PDS, ICDS), fortified food reaches vulnerable populations, ensuring consistent nutrient intake for large segments of society.
    • Cost-Effective: It offers a scalable, affordable solution to malnutrition, improving health outcomes without significant changes in diets or eating habits.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Monitoring and Quality Control: Implement robust monitoring mechanisms to ensure the consistent quality of fortified rice and its proper distribution across welfare programs to maximize nutritional benefits.
    • Raise Awareness and Promote Consumption: Conduct awareness campaigns to educate the public on the health benefits of fortified rice, ensuring higher acceptance and consistent consumption to address widespread micronutrient deficiencies.

  • A re-balancing of India’s great power relations

    Why in the News?

    India’s participation in the sixth Quad Leaders’ Summit in Wilmington, Delaware, U.S., on September 21, 2024, has heightened expectations for strengthening security cooperation among the “four key maritime democracies in the Indo-Pacific.”

    How can India navigate its relationships with major powers?

    • Strategic Autonomy: India maintains a policy of non-alignment, balancing relations with both the U.S. and Russia. It is careful not to be drawn into formal alliances but seeks to leverage its partnerships for national interests.
    • Quad vs. Russia: India’s engagement with the U.S.-led Quad strengthens its Indo-Pacific strategy, while its ties with Russia (a Quad opponent) focus on maintaining historical military and strategic benefits.
    • Russia-China Dynamics: As Russia moves closer to China, India seeks to rebalance, ensuring its interests are not sidelined, particularly in the context of China’s growing influence in Asia and unresolved border disputes.
    • U.S. Partnership: While deepening ties with the U.S., India is cautious about fully aligning with Washington’s agenda (for exports), especially regarding tensions with Russia.

    What role does India play in Global Conflict Resolution?

    • As a Peace facilitator: India is increasingly positioning itself as a peace facilitator, evidenced by the NSA (Ajit Dowal) of India’s outreach to Russia and France regarding the Ukraine conflict and peace plan.
    • As a ‘Vishwa Bandhu’: India’s engagement with both Ukraine and Russia shows its willingness to serve as an interlocutor, navigating complex diplomatic terrains while pushing for dialogue in global conflicts.
      • India’s attempts to mediate in conflicts like Ukraine emphasize its independent foreign policy, aiming to project itself as a “Vishwa Bandhu” (friend to the world).

    What implications do Domestic Issues have on India’s Foreign Policy?

    • Economic Dependencies: India’s reliance on Russian military equipment and discounted oil affects its stance on the Ukraine war, pushing for a more nuanced approach in balancing U.S. and Russian relations.
    • Border Tensions with China: Domestic security concerns, such as the standoff at the LAC, influence India’s foreign policy decisions, especially in its cautious relationship with China despite economic interdependence.
    • Public Opinion and Strategic Decisions: India’s foreign policy must account for domestic perceptions of global powers, balancing national security with economic growth and political stability in a complex international environment.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Strategic Autonomy: India should continue balancing its relationships with major powers by deepening economic and security ties with both the U.S. and Russia, while maintaining flexibility to protect its national interests, particularly in the Indo-Pacific and vis-à-vis China.
    • Expand Peace Diplomacy: India can further leverage its role as a mediator in global conflicts, enhancing its international standing by promoting dialogue and peace initiatives.

  • India signs $750-mn currency swap deal with forex-starved Maldives

    Why in the News?

    The RBI has announced a Currency Swap Agreement with the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) under the SAARC Currency Swap Framework 2024-27.

    India’s Financial Support to Maldives

    • India will extend financial support to the Maldives, providing $400 million under the US Dollar/Euro Swap Window.
    • Additionally, ₹30 billion (approximately $357 million) will be made available under the INR Swap Window.
    • The Currency Swap Agreement will remain valid until June 18, 2027.

    About SAARC Currency Swap Framework:

    Details
    Objective To provide short-term liquidity support to SAARC member countries during financial crises or instability.
    Administered by Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
    Launch Year 2012
    Countries Involved All SAARC members: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
    Facility Swap arrangement in US Dollar, Euro, or Indian Rupee.
    Interest Rate Based on the currency borrowed, includes a margin over international benchmark rates.
    Purpose To address the balance of payment crises and provide financial stability.
    Recent Users Sri Lanka, Maldives

     

    Maldives’ Debt Situation

    • The Maldives’ debt is now estimated at 110% of its gross domestic product (GDP), with increasing risks of defaulting on its sukuk (Islamic bond).
    • A failure to make payments would mark the world’s first default of an Islamic bond.
      • Fitch Ratings estimates that the Maldives’ external debt obligations will reach $557 million by 2025 and exceed $1 billion by 2026.
      • The country’s foreign reserves stood at just $437 million at the end of August, only enough to cover one-and-a-half months of imports.
      • India provided a $50 million lifeline to the Maldives to help avoid this outcome.
    • The Export-Import Bank of India is owed nearly $400 million, while the Export-Import Bank of China is owed about $530 million as of last year.

    Significance of India’s Assistance

    • Debt Relief: India’s financial aid, including a $50 million lifeline, would help the Maldives avoid debt default and stabilize its economy.
    • Geopolitical Influence: With this, India can counter China’s influence in the Maldives, strengthening its strategic position in the Indian Ocean.
    • Diplomatic Reset: India’s support strengthens diplomatic relations, aiding the Maldives in debt restructuring and global partnerships.

    PYQ:

    [2019] In the context of India, which of the following factors is/are contributor/contributors to reducing the risk of a currency crisis?

    1. The foreign currency earnings of India’s IT sector
    2. Increasing the government expenditure
    3. Remittances from Indians abroad

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 1 and 3 only

    (c) 2 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Trade is not just Globalized but also weaponized: S. Jaishankar

    Why in the News?

    External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted that over the past 25 years, globalisation has led to job losses and dissatisfaction in many societies, as trade has become both globalised and weaponised.

    How is trade being weaponised in global politics?

    • Trade is increasingly being used as a strategic tool by countries, intertwined with national security concerns. Nations impose tariffs, subsidies, and other economic measures as defensive actions to protect domestic industries and geopolitical interests.
    • Technologies and supply chains are viewed through a national security lens, leading to greater control over economic interactions.

    Note: Economic and military power comes under hard power.

    What implications does this weaponization of trade have for India and its foreign relations?

    • Rising Protectionism: India has responded to this trend by imposing over 30 anti-dumping measures against Chinese goods in 2024 alone. These defensive actions are meant to shield Indian industries from what is perceived as China’s predatory pricing strategies.
    • Impact on Global Supply Chains: As global supply chains become more transnational, India’s ability to secure its interests, especially in high-tech sectors, becomes crucial.
      • India is balancing its integration into the global economy while protecting critical sectors from foreign influence, especially from China.
    • Foreign Relations: India’s foreign policy is increasingly being shaped by economic security concerns.
      • Trade disputes, such as those with China, have prompted a re-evaluation of economic partnerships and collaboration within frameworks like the Indo-Pacific to reduce dependency on potentially adversarial nations.

    What historical context informs India’s current approach to trade and international relations?

    • China’s Entry into WTO (2001): India, like many other countries, faced economic repercussions when Chinese goods flooded global markets after China joined the WTO. This led to job losses and industrial competition.
    • Globalization and Job Losses: The rapid globalization of the past 25 years has contributed to domestic job losses and dissatisfaction in various sectors in India.
    • Strategic Autonomy: India’s foreign relations have historically been guided by a principle of strategic autonomy.
      • This informs its cautious stance on fully integrating into global supply chains without safeguarding critical industries, and influences its desire to promote reforms in Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) to suit developing nations’ needs.

    Way forward:

    • Strengthening Domestic Industries: India should continue enhancing self-reliance through initiatives like Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, focusing on boosting high-tech sectors and reducing dependency on foreign imports, especially from adversarial nations like China.
    • Diversifying Trade Partnerships: India must deepen economic ties with friendly nations and regional alliances such as the Indo-Pacific, while advocating for reforms in global trade systems like the WTO and MDBs to ensure fair competition and support for developing economies.

  • The status of the civil war in Sudan

    Why in the News?

    On September 26, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) initiated a significant offensive against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Khartoum and Bahri. As a result, the conflict, which had been relatively calm for several months, has reignited with increased intensity.

    What is the extent of the war? 

    • Duration and Scope: The civil war has lasted for over 18 months, initially erupting from a power struggle between the two military factions—the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). What began in Khartoum has spread to various regions, including Omdurman, Bahri, Port Sudan, El Fasher, and areas in Darfur and Kordofan.
    • Casualties and Displacement: The UN reports over 20,000 fatalities since the conflict began. Additionally, the International Organization for Migration estimates 10.89 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) as of October 1.
    • Worsening Humanitarian Crisis: Access to aid and healthcare has become severely restricted, particularly in Darfur. 
      • The UN has declared famine in specific camps like Zamzam, affecting nearly 500,000 IDPs. Currently, 25.6 million people—more than half of Sudan’s population—face critical food insecurity.

    How have ethnic tensions and rivalries played a part in the war? 

    • Ethnic Conflict: The war has evolved beyond a military rivalry, intensifying along ethnic lines. The RSF, composed of predominantly Arab militias, has been involved in targeting non-Arab communities, such as the Masalit, particularly in the Darfur region.
    • Militia Involvement: Various regional ethnic militias have taken sides in the conflict, complicating the dynamics further. The SAF has allied with the Sudanese People’s Liberation Movement, while the RSF has garnered support from Arab militias.
    • Historical reason: Ethnic tensions are rooted in historical grievances, exacerbating violence and leading to retaliatory attacks between communities, which have fueled the conflict.

    What are the implications for the region?

    • Mass Displacement: Over two million refugees have fled to neighboring countries, including Chad, South Sudan, and Ethiopia. This has strained resources in host countries and raised concerns about a potential migrant crisis in Europe.
    • Ethnic Clashes in Neighboring Regions: The instability in Sudan has triggered ethnic violence along the borders with South Sudan and Ethiopia, particularly in contested areas like Abyei and El Fashaga.
    • Economic Impact: The ongoing conflict jeopardizes essential infrastructures, such as oil pipelines from South Sudan to the Red Sea, threatening regional economic stability.
    • Cross-Border Tensions: A lack of effective governance in Sudan has led to increased ethnic tensions and clashes in border regions, which could have wider implications for regional security and stability.

    Way forward: 

    • Facilitate Peace Talks: India can leverage its diplomatic relations with the conflicting factions (SAF and RSF) to encourage dialogue and support peace initiatives through multilateral platforms like the African Union and the UN.
    • Strengthen Regional Alliances: India can collaborate with neighbouring countries (Chad, South Sudan, Ethiopia) to manage the refugee crisis and promote stability through joint security initiatives.

  • [7th October 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh and a travesty of justice

    PYQ Relevance:  

    Q). Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India in the light of the evolution of the Model Code of Conduct. (UPSC CSE 2022)

    Q. (a) State the three basic values, universal in nature, in the context of civil services and bring out their importance. (150 words) (b) Distinguish between “Code of ethics” and “Code of conduct” with suitable examples. (UPSC CSE 2018)

    Q. (a) Which eminent personality has inspired you the most in the context of ethical conduct in life? Give the gist of his/her teachings. Giving specific examples, describe how you have been able to apply these teachings for your ethical development.   (b) There is a heavy ethical responsibility on the public servants because they occupy positions of power, handle huge amounts of public funds, and their decisions have wide-ranging impacts on society and the environment. What steps have you taken to improve your ethical competence to handle such responsibility? (UPSC CSE 2014)

    Mentor’s Comment:  Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh is a prominent Indian spiritual leader and the head of the Dera Sacha Sauda sect. In January 2019, he was sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of journalist Ram Chander Chhatrapati, who had reported on the rape allegations against him. Additionally, he was convicted in October 2021 for the murder of Ranjit Singh, a former Dera manager.

    Despite his criminal convictions, Singh maintains a significant following. These challenges are reflected while maintaining law and order in governance and administration. In today’s editorial, we will study the same case and its impacts on democratic values of the Society.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, a convicted rapist and murderer, was released on parole just days before the Haryana Assembly elections.

    • This is his 15th parole, which is often coinciding with elections, raising concerns from the opposition party about electoral conduct violations.
    • A parole is a conditional release of a prisoner before they have completed their full sentence.

    What legal challenges have been raised against this Parole?

    • Violates Model Code of Conduct: The Haryana Congress has formally petitioned the Election Commission of India to prevent Singh’s parole, arguing that it could influence voters during the upcoming assembly elections affecting democratic values.
      • Even if granted parole, he needs to face stringent conditions, including a ban on entering Haryana, delivering public speeches, or engaging in any political activities.
    • Public Opposition and Legal Scrutiny: There is significant public outcry with groups like the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee. Concerns have been raised about potential law and order issues stemming from his influence
    • Judicial Oversight: The state government has assured that all parole applications are processed legally, adhering to the Haryana Good Conduct Prisoner (Temporary Release) Act, 2022. The frequent granting of parole has led to calls for reforms in the system to prevent misuse.

    What role needs to be played by the Political Parties and the ECI?

    • Political Parties: The ruling party in Haryana defends the decision to grant parole to Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, claiming due process was followed. While the opposition party opposes the parole, their previous activities had similar views.
      • Political parties need to learn from former personalities like PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh, who prioritized the ‘Rule of Law’ over political gain.
    • Election Commission’s Scrutiny: The Election Commission of India (ECI) needs to intervene and cancel Singh’s parole, arguing it undermines democratic values, especially before elections.
    • Need for Judicial Oversight: The judiciary has previously played a crucial role in addressing Singh’s crimes, and there is hope for continued judicial vigilance against unjust paroles.

    Conclusion: The ongoing saga of Singh’s crimes and convictions reflects a broader societal struggle against superstition and injustice, as emphasized by the late rationalist Narendra Dabholkar. ECI should establish stricter guidelines and oversight mechanisms regarding parole applications, particularly for individuals convicted of serious crimes.