💥UPSC 2026, 2027, 2028 UAP Mentorship (March Batch) + Access XFactor Notes & Microthemes PDF
Talk to mentor

Civilsdaily

Login

Archives: News

  • Climate Change Impact on India and World – International Reports, Key Observations, etc.

    ADB increases Climate Finance backed by US, Japan Pledge

    Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Why in the News?

    The Asian Development Bank (ADB) will boost climate-related lending by up to $7.2 billion following an agreement by the United States and Japan to provide risk guarantees for some existing loans.

    • This marks the first-ever use of sovereign guarantees for climate finance.

    ASIAN DEVELOPMENT BANK
    About ADB was founded in 1966 following the Conference on Asian Economic Cooperation organized by the United Nations Economic Commission for Asia and the Far East.

    • Headquarters: Located in Manila, Philippines.
    • Status: Official UN Observer.
    Aims and Objectives
    • Reducing poverty in Asia and the Pacific region.
    • Provide Program Assistance that provides loans (hard/soft), technical assistance, and grants.
    • Enhances effectiveness through policy dialogues, advisory services, and co-financing to mobilize additional financial resources.
    Goals and Targets
    • ADB raises funds primarily through bond issues on global capital markets.
    • The ADB has set a climate finance target of $100 billion from 2019 to 2030. The U.S. will guarantee $1 billion of existing ADB loans, while Japan will underwrite $600 million.

    Advantages of the Guarantee Structure:

    • Expands ADB’s lending capacity.
    • Lending space will be used over 5 years, while the guarantees will last for 25 years.
    • Example: A sustainable aviation fuel initiative in Pakistan using cooking oil, with ADB covering about half of the $90 million cost.
    Membership
    • Total Members: 67 countries, with 48 from Asia and the Pacific.
    • Membership Eligibility: Includes members of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) and non-regional developed countries.
    • Major Shareholders: Japan and the United States (Each hold 15.607% of shares), China ( 6.444%), India (6.331%), Australia (5.786%).

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

    Attend Now

  • Barak River

    Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 1: Geographical Features & Their Location

    Why in the News?

    Police found dead bodies floating in the Barak River (inflicted due to Manipur Violence).

    About the Barak River:

    Details
    Geographical Location • Originates from Japvo mountain in Manipur hills at 3,015 m altitude.
    • Flows south, forming the border between Assam and Manipur up to Jirimat.
    • Flows for 524 km in India, and then enters Bangladesh as Surma and Kushiyara, later becoming Meghna River.• The river is navigable in parts, with National Waterway 6 (121 km).
    Physical Features • Length: 564 km in total, with 524 km in India.
    • Drainage area in India: 41,157 sq. km (1.38% of India’s total area).
    • Tributaries: Jiri, Dhaleswari, Singla, Longai, Sonai, and Katakhal.
    Flora and Fauna/Important Sites • Fauna: Home to over 2,000 species of fish and rare creatures like the Siamese crocodile, susu dolphin, smooth-coated otter, and black mugger crocodile.
    • Flora: Includes Varzea forest, Los llamjao, tidal forests (mangroves), Pats (flat-topped table mountains), and large tropical swamps.
    • Wetlands support farming and biodiversity.
    • Hydropower projects: Tipaimukh Dam, Tista Champamati, Dhansiri Barrages.
    • Affected by flooding and soil erosion, especially during monsoon.

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] Consider the following rivers:

    1. Barak

    2. Lohit

    3. Subansiri

    Which of the above flows/flow through Arunachal Pradesh?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

    Attend Now

  • Industrial Sector Updates – Industrial Policy, Ease of Doing Business, etc.

    No dual eco-clearance for 39 categories of industry

    Explained | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Why in the News?

    The Environment Ministry has agreed to a long-standing request from industries to remove the need for environmental clearance and permission to set up operations. This will make it easier for businesses to comply with regulations.

    India’s Environmental Policies and Goals

    • Streamlining Compliance: The government has removed the requirement for ‘white category’ industries to obtain both Environmental Clearance (EC) and Consent to Establish (CTE) {Dual eco clearance}. This decision is expected to reduce the compliance burden on businesses, allowing them to operate more efficiently without duplicative approvals.
    • Classification of Industries: Industries are categorized into four color-coded groups based on their pollution potential: Red (most polluting), Orange, Green, and White (least polluting). 
      • The recent exemption applies specifically to those in the White category, which includes sectors like solar energy production and fly ash brick manufacturing.
    • Alignment with National Goals: This move aligns with India’s broader environmental objectives as outlined in the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) and commitments made under international agreements like the Paris Agreement.
      • These include targets for reducing emissions intensity and increasing non-fossil fuel energy sources.
    • Focus on Sustainable Development: The policy shift reflects a growing emphasis on balancing economic growth with ecological sustainability. It aims to foster an environment conducive to green technologies while still addressing pollution control through existing frameworks.
    Note: Dual Eco-Clearance refers to the requirement for certain industries in India to obtain both Environmental Clearance (EC) and Consent to Establish (CTE) before commencing operations, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.

    Impacts of Eliminating Dual Eco-Clearance for Industrial Projects

    • Reduced Administrative Burden: By eliminating the need for dual clearances, businesses can save time and resources that would otherwise be spent navigating complex regulatory requirements.
    • Encouragement of Green Industries: The exemption is likely to encourage investment in green technologies and industries that contribute positively to environmental sustainability. This aligns with India’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
    • Potential Increase in Industrial Activity: With fewer regulatory hurdles, there may be an uptick in industrial activities within the exempted categories, potentially leading to job creation and economic growth in these sectors.

    What are other potential risks associated with the new eco-clearance framework?

    • Environmental Oversight Concerns: Critics argue that easing compliance requirements could lead to lax environmental oversight, increasing the risk of pollution incidents if industries are not adequately monitored.
    • Inconsistent Implementation: The reliance on state departments for permitting could result in inconsistent application of regulations across different regions, potentially leading to environmental degradation in areas where enforcement is weaker.
    • Long-Term Sustainability Risks: While immediate economic benefits may arise from reduced compliance burdens, there is a concern that neglecting environmental checks could compromise long-term sustainability goals, particularly if industries expand without adequate ecological safeguards.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Monitoring Mechanisms for White Category Industries: Establish periodic audits and use digital monitoring tools to ensure compliance, maintaining oversight without imposing excessive regulatory burdens.
    • Standardize Implementation Across States: Develop clear, consistent guidelines for states to prevent uneven enforcement and ensure that reduced compliance requirements do not compromise environmental standards.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Industrial pollution of river water is a significant environmental issue in India. Discuss the various mitigation measures to deal with this problem and also the government’s initiatives in this regard. (UPSC IAS/2024)

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

    Attend Now

  • Renewable Energy – Wind, Tidal, Geothermal, etc.

    Green Transition that India needs

    Explained | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Why in the News?

    With Donald Trump’s win in the U.S. and ongoing conflicts in West Asia, India faces a significant challenge at COP29: it must reduce carbon emissions fairly, sustain economic growth, and attract climate funding for essential investments.

    Primary Challenges Facing India’s Renewable Energy Transition

    • Policy Instability: Frequent changes in policies create uncertainty for investors, hindering long-term planning and investment in renewable energy projects.
    • Financial Constraints: India requires substantial investment—estimated at about $10 trillion by 2070—for its energy transition, yet access to affordable financing remains a significant barrier.
    • Infrastructure Limitations: The existing energy infrastructure is often inadequate to support the rapid deployment of renewable technologies, particularly in rural areas where access to clean energy is limited.
    • Dependence on Fossil Fuels: Coal remains a dominant source of energy, accounting for approximately 73% of total power generation. This reliance complicates the shift towards renewables.
    • Geographical Disparities: There are uneven resources and infrastructure across regions, affecting the adoption and efficiency of renewable technologies.
    • Environmental and Social Concerns: Rapid expansion of renewable energy can lead to land use conflicts, impacting agriculture and local ecosystems. Additionally, there are concerns about job losses in traditional energy sectors during the transition.

    How India Can Secure Financing for Its Green Transition?

    • International Collaboration: Engaging with global partners through initiatives like the International Solar Alliance can attract foreign investments and technology transfers.
    • Innovative Financing Models: Implementing operational expenditure (opex) models rather than capital expenditure (capex) can lower upfront costs for consumers. For example, community solar projects can allow shared ownership and reduce individual financial burdens.
    • Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): Encouraging collaborations between government entities and private investors can mobilize resources for large-scale renewable projects while sharing risks.
    • Targeted Subsidies: Redirecting subsidies from fossil fuels to clean energy technologies can create a more favorable financial environment for renewable investments. This includes enhancing support for green technologies through tax incentives and grants.

    Strategies That Can Be Implemented (Way Forward)

    • Decentralized Energy Systems: Promoting distributed renewable energy sources (like rooftop solar) can empower local communities and reduce dependence on centralized power systems. Innovative business models such as community solar can enhance accessibility.
    • Digital Integration: Leveraging digital technologies to manage energy distribution more efficiently can optimize resource use and enhance system resilience. Investments in smart meters and AI-driven energy management systems are essential.
    • Circular Economy Initiatives: Developing a circular economy framework for managing waste from renewable technologies can improve resource efficiency and reduce environmental impacts. This includes recycling materials from solar panels and batteries.
    • Focus on Supply Chains: Positioning India within global clean energy supply chains rather than adopting protectionist policies can enhance competitiveness and attract investments. Collaborating with other countries on technology development is crucial.
    • Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating consumers about the benefits of renewable technologies and encouraging adoption through financial incentives can drive demand for green solutions

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases which cause global warming, in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997. (UPSC IAS/2022)

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

    Attend Now

  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-Africa

    Leverage similarity, complementarity in Nigeria

    Explained | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: India & Its Neighborhood – Relations

    Why in the News?

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa and its second-largest economy.

    Historical Background of Bilateral Relations between India and Nigeria

    • Long-standing Ties: India and Nigeria have maintained a bilateral relationship for over six decades, marked by shared values of democracy, pluralism, and economic cooperation. This partnership has evolved significantly since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1960.
    • First Direct Contact: Historical ties trace back to around 1500 AD with the arrival of Baba Ghor, a gem merchant from Kano, who settled in Gujarat, symbolizing early trade connections between the two regions.
    • Strategic Partnership: The formalization of their strategic partnership began in 2007, focusing on economic, energy, and defense collaboration. Since then, both countries have engaged in multiple dialogues to strengthen their ties.
    • Cultural Exchange: Indian influence in Nigeria is notable through education and healthcare, with many Nigerians studying in India and receiving medical treatment there. Indian cultural products like Bollywood films are also popular among Nigerians

    The Role of Soft Power in India-Nigeria Relations

    • Cultural Diplomacy: India’s soft power is evident through cultural exchanges, educational scholarships, and training programs that foster goodwill and strengthen people-to-people connections.
    • Healthcare Collaboration: India’s reputation as a destination for medical treatment enhances its soft power, with many Nigerians seeking healthcare services in Indian hospitals.
    • Capacity Building: Initiatives like the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program provide training to Nigerian professionals, contributing to human capital development and fostering long-term relationships.
    • Shared Values: Both countries share common challenges such as governance issues and socio-economic development needs, which can be addressed collaboratively through dialogue and mutual support.

    Importance of Nigeria for India: 

    • Major Trading Partner: Nigeria is India’s second-largest trading partner in Africa, with bilateral trade valued at approximately $7.89 billion in 2023-24. This trade encompasses vital sectors such as crude oil, natural gas, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy.
    • Investment Opportunities: Over 200 Indian companies have invested around $27 billion in Nigeria across various sectors, including infrastructure, manufacturing, and consumer goods.
    • People-to-People Ties: There is a significant Indian diaspora in Nigeria, comprising around 50,000 individuals who contribute to the local economy and foster cultural exchange. This community enhances bilateral relations through trade, education, and healthcare links.
    • Educational Collaboration: India has been a preferred destination for Nigerian students seeking higher education. Initiatives like the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program provide scholarships and training opportunities for Nigerians.

    How India and Nigeria Can Enhance Their Economic Collaboration?

    • Strengthening Trade Agreements: Finalizing a comprehensive economic partnership agreement can facilitate smoother trade flows and address market access issues for both nations.
    • Local Currency Settlement: Implementing a Local Currency Settlement System can mitigate exchange rate risks and streamline transactions between the two countries.
    • Sectoral Cooperation: Focusing on key sectors such as hydrocarbons, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, agriculture, and infrastructure can diversify economic exchanges and enhance mutual benefits.
    • Investment in Infrastructure: India can invest in Nigeria’s infrastructure development projects, leveraging its experience in various sectors to address Nigeria’s physical and social infrastructure deficits.
    • Utilizing the Indian Diaspora: Engaging the Indian diaspora in Nigeria as a bridge for business opportunities can enhance bilateral trade and investment flows.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Economic and Trade Partnership: Finalize a comprehensive economic partnership agreement and implement a Local Currency Settlement System to boost trade, reduce exchange risks, and expand collaboration in high-potential sectors like hydrocarbons, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy.
    • Leverage Soft Power and People-to-People Connections: Enhance cultural diplomacy and skill development initiatives, expanding ITEC programs and engaging the Indian diaspora to deepen ties and foster mutual goodwill, creating a resilient foundation for bilateral relations.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q “If the last few decades were of Asia’s growth story, the next few are expected to be of Africa’s.” In the light of this statement, examine India’s influence in Africa in recent years. (UPSC IAS/2021)

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

    Attend Now

  • Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

    [pib] Janjatiya Gaurav Divas

    Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    Why in the News?

    • Since 2021, November 15th is celebrated as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas to honor the contributions of tribal communities in India’s freedom struggle.
      • This day commemorates the birth anniversary of the legendary Sri Birsa Munda.

    Who was Birsa Munda?

    • Born on November 15, 1875, in the Chotanagpur region (now Jharkhand), during a period of significant changes for the Munda community.
    • He spent his early years traveling with his parents; received primary education under Jaipal Nag.
    • He was influenced by the Sardari agitation, a peaceful movement against British rule, Birsa emerged as a leader advocating tribal rights.

    Causes of the Rebellion:

    • British policies like the Permanent Settlement Act (1793) disrupted traditional land systems, leading to displacement and exploitation of tribal communities.
    • The Mundas’ khuntkatti land rights system was eroded by jagirdars and thikadars, resulting in land alienation.
    • Increased migration of non-tribals under British rule led to exploitation through high-interest money lending and forced labor.
    • Missionary-led education raised awareness among tribals, creating social divides but also sparking movements for tribal rights.

    Historical Background:

    • Birsa started the Birsait faith to counter Christian missionary conversions among tribals. It became a challenge to British conversion efforts.
      • Members of the Munda and Oraon communities joined the Birsait sect.
      • The Mundas honored him as Dharati Aaba (Father of the Earth).
    • The Ulgulan Movement: Also known as the Munda Rebellion, led by Birsa Munda in 1899-1900.
      • Concentrated in the Munda belt of Khunti, Tamar, Sarwada, and Bandgaon.
      • The goal was to establish Munda Raj (self-rule) and independence, known as Ulgulan or the “Great Tumult.”
      • The rebellion was ultimately suppressed by British forces, leading to Birsa Munda’s capture and death.
    • Birsa Munda’s mobilization left a lasting impact, prompting government reforms like the repeal of the Begar system and enactment of the Tenancy Act (1903).
    • The movement was violently suppressed, and Birsa Munda died in jail on June 9, 1900.

    Significance:

    • Janjatiya Gaurav Divas is significant in preserving the legacy of tribal resistance leaders and advocating for tribal rights.
    • It promotes a more inclusive society that values the contributions of all communities in India’s historical and cultural fabric.

    PYQ:

    [2020] With reference to the history of India, “Ulgulan” or the Great Tumult is the description of which of the following events?

    (a) The Revolt of 1857

    (b) The Mappila Rebellion of 1921

    (c) The Indigo Revolt of 1859-60

    (d) Birsa Munda’s Revolt of 1899-1900

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

    Attend Now

  • Foreign Policy Watch: India-Canada

    What is the Student Direct Stream visa?

    Prelims Only | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Effect Of Policies & Politics Of World On India’S Interests

    Why in the News?

    Canada has discontinued the Student Direct Stream (SDS), ending faster processing for students from specific countries, including India.

    What is the Student Direct Stream (SDS) Visa?

    • The SDS is a fast-track visa processing program introduced by Canada in 2018 to expedite study permits for students from certain countries, including India.
    • Under SDS, applicants typically experienced processing times of around 20 days.
    • This stream was designed to simplify and speed up the application process for eligible students by requiring proof of financial stability (such as a Guaranteed Investment Certificate) and specific educational documentation.
    • The SDS applied to students from 14 countries, including: India, China, Pakistan, Vietnam, Trinidad and Tobago, among others.
    • Since its launch, SDS has been popular among Indian students, with a high approval rate for study permits in recent years.

    Why was SDS discontinued?

    • Fair Access: Moving to a single, standardized process aims to provide equal opportunity for all applicants.
    • Strengthened Protection: Canada intends to address student vulnerability by improving safeguards in its regular process.

    The changes are part of Canada’s broader immigration reforms, which also update financial requirements and study permit caps.

    How does the discontinuation affect Indian Students?

    Indian students will face:

    • Longer Processing Times: Visa approvals may now take longer under the standard process.
    • Additional Financial Proof: More financial documentation will be required.
    • Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Changes: New rules from November 1, 2024 may impact work options after graduation.

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

    Attend Now

  • Indian Army Updates

    Exercise ‘Poorvi Prahar’

    Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Various Security Forces, Agencies & Their Mandates

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Army is conducting a high-intensity tri-services exercise named Poorvi Prahar from November 10 to 18 in Arunachal Pradesh’s forward areas.

    About Exercise ‘Poorvi Prahar’

    • It is a joint effort of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force to improve combat effectiveness for Integrated Joint Operations in challenging mountainous terrain.
    • It features a broad range of advanced military platforms:
      • Aircraft and Helicopters: Includes fighter aircraft, reconnaissance platforms, Chinook helicopters, and the Advanced Light Helicopter (Rudra).
      • Artillery: Deployment of M777 Ultra-Light Howitzers.
      • Capabilities: These assets provide high mobility, firepower, and precision suited to the region’s tough terrain.
    • Significance:
      • It emphasizes the Indian Armed Forces’ readiness to conduct multi-domain operations across land, air, and sea, reinforcing India’s strategic deterrence capabilities in the region.

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

    Attend Now

  • Electoral Reforms In India

    The perfect cocktail of layered discrimination

    Explained | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Governance, Transparency & Accountability, Citizens Charters

    Why in the News?

    The delay in the 2021 Census and the upcoming Delimitation (2026), could widen representation gaps at all three layers of governance.

    • Most states in India (Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu) are formed based on language, and many have roots in ethnic or linguistic regions which is also becoming one of the major causes of layered discrimination.

    What is Layered Discrimination?

    Layered discrimination refers to the compounded and interconnected forms of discrimination that individuals or groups face due to multiple, overlapping identities, such as gender, race, class, or ethnicity.  

    What are the present causes behind the layered discrimination in India?

    • Central Governance: Since 1947, the population share of languages like Bengali, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, and Telugu has dropped, while the proportion of Hindi speakers has risen significantly from 36% to nearly 43%. 
      • This means that the regions with  Linguistic and cultural dominance will gain more influence in the Parliament, while those that have controlled their population will have less say and will mainly contribute revenue.
      • This will also deepen the structural disparities between the different states affecting our federal structure.
    • State Governance: With longstanding differences wrt ‘Total Fertility Rates’ among different states (like Bihar vs. Kerala), lead to issues regarding resource allocation and policy formation remain unsettled. 
      • For example, the decision of the 16th Finance Commission to include the 2011 Census instead of the 1971 Census to devolve funds to States will be even more discriminatory to developed States. 
      • It reflects the continuation of the existing bias against the non-Hindi States. 

    What are the implications of layered discrimination on policy and legal frameworks?

    • Policy Impact: When policies, such as Delimitation, unintentionally favor certain regions or communities over others, it can reinforce inequalities. 
      • In this case, non-Hindi-speaking states that have successfully controlled their populations and contribute a significant share of national revenue may face decreased representation in the Lok Sabha, reducing their influence on Union policy.
    • Legal Framework Impact: Layered discrimination underscores the need for legal frameworks that recognize regional disparities and protect equitable representation. 
      • Legal principles such as “No taxation without representation” suggest the necessity for reforms that balance contribution with influence, ensuring that states contributing more to the GDP and population control policies do not lose their political voice.

    Significant Potential of Delimitation in this Scenario:

    • ​​Redistribution of Political Power: Delimitation could reshape the political landscape by adjusting Lok Sabha seat allocations based on population, potentially giving more representation to populous regions.
    • Incentivizing Population Control: By rewarding states with controlled population growth, delimitation could encourage better family planning policies and demographic balance.
    • Enhancing Representation: A fair delimitation process could lead to more accurate representation of the population, aligning political influence with current demographic realities.

    Way forward: 

    • Need to work on Intersectionality: The Intersectionality Framework in policy implementation reveals that individuals and groups experience discrimination based on multiple, overlapping identities such as gender, race, class, language, and region rather than a single factor. 
      • It shows how various systems of power (like patriarchy, racism, and economic inequality) intersect and create unique challenges. 
      • This approach helps us to understand how certain groups face compounded disadvantages due to intersecting social structures.
    • Balancing Delimitation and Decentralization: Implement delimitation reforms with careful consideration of regional contributions, ensuring equitable representation for both populous and less-populous states.  

    PYQ:

    Mains:

    Q Examine the need for electoral reforms as suggested by various committees with particular reference to “one nation-one election” principle.  (2024)

    Q What changes has the Union Government recently introduced in the domain of Centre-State relations? Suggest measures to be adopted to build trust between the Centre and the States and for strengthening federalism. (2024)

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

    Attend Now

  • Important Judgements In News

    Supreme Court puts brakes on ‘bulldozer culture’

    Explained | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure

    Why in the News?

    On November 13, 2024, the Supreme Court criticized states for using bulldozers to demolish homes of accused individuals, condemning it as a display of “might is right” that leaves families destitute.

    What guidelines has the Supreme Court laid down to regulate future demolition actions?

    • 15-Day Notice Requirement: The authorities must issue a prior notice of at least 15 days to the occupants of a property before demolition.
      • The notice must include details of the unauthorized construction, violations, and grounds for demolition, providing the affected party an opportunity to challenge the action.
    • Fair Opportunity to Contest: Occupants must be given a fair chance to contest the demolition before the designated authority. The authority must provide reasoned conclusions in its final order, ensuring transparency and accountability in the decision-making process.
    • Videography of Demolitions: All demolitions must be videographed to ensure that the process is carried out lawfully and without excessive force. This acts as a safeguard against abuse of power.
    • Penalty for Non-Compliance: Public officials who fail to comply with these guidelines will face contempt action and prosecution, with personal liability for restitution of demolished property.
    • Exceptions: The guidelines do not apply in cases of encroachment on public property or where demolition is ordered by a court, ensuring that the ruling does not interfere with lawful orders.

    What are the implications of the Supreme Court’s ruling on demolitions linked to criminal accusations?

    • Protection of Fundamental Rights: The ruling safeguards individuals’ fundamental rights, particularly the right to life and property under Article 21 of the Constitution.
      • The Court emphasized that an accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty and that demolishing a property without due process violates the constitutional guarantee of fair treatment.
    • Accountability of Public Officials: The ruling holds public officials accountable for actions that undermine justice and fairness. Violations of the prescribed guidelines will result in contempt charges and personal liability for restitution, reinforcing the responsibility of the state to adhere to the rule of law.
    • Prevention of Arbitrary Executive Action: By limiting the state’s power to demolish properties, the Court has curtailed arbitrary executive actions that could be seen as collective punishment. The executive must now act within the bounds of natural justice and due process.

    How the Ruling Addresses Concerns About Selective Targeting and Discrimination in Demolitions?

    • Addressing Communal Bias: The Court acknowledged concerns that demolitions were being carried out with a communal bias. By invoking Article 142 to issue binding directives, the Court seeks to curb discriminatory practices, ensuring that no group or individual is targeted based on religious, social, or other factors.
    • Prevention of Selective Targeting: The Court emphasized that demolitions should not be selective or targeted. It pointed out that if one structure is chosen for demolition while similar structures remain untouched, it could indicate mala fide intent.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Oversight Mechanisms: Establish independent bodies to monitor demolition actions and ensure compliance with the Supreme Court’s guidelines, preventing misuse of power and ensuring transparency in the process.
    • Ensure Comprehensive Legal Reforms: Advocate for legislative changes that reinforce the principles of due process, protecting individuals from arbitrary state actions and ensuring fair treatment for all, particularly marginalized communities.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Examine the scope of Fundamental Rights in the light of the latest judgement of the Supreme Court on Right to Privacy. (UPSC IAS/2017)

    Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

    Attend Now

Join the Community

Join us across Social Media platforms.