ECI Raises Concerns Over Non-Biodegradable Materials in Elections
Context: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has recently reiterated its concerns regarding the environmental hazards posed by the use of non-biodegradable materials in election campaigns. Since 1999, the ECI has been urging political parties and candidates to refrain from using plastic or polythene for the preparation of election-related materials. This ongoing initiative underscores the […]
District Election Management Plan
Context: The conduct of elections in contemporary times has evolved into a complex and multifaceted endeavor, demanding meticulous planning and execution to uphold the principles of a free, fair, and inclusive electoral process. At the heart of this intricate planning lies the District Election Management Plan (DEMP), a comprehensive document crafted with statistics and analysis. […]
Delhi Chief Minister Sent to Enforcement Directorate’s Custody in Excise Policy Case
Context: A Magistrate Court in Delhi has recently remanded the Chief Minister of Delhi to the custody of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the Excise Policy Case. The ED has accused the Chief Minister of being the “kingpin and key conspirator” in the Delhi excise scam, marking a significant development in the ongoing […]
Cinematograph (Certification) Rules 2024
Context: The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has recently introduced the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 2024, replacing the outdated 1983 rules. This update comes in line with the amendments made to the Cinematograph Act of 1952 by the Cinematograph (Amendment) Act, 2023. The amended legislation governs the certification, exhibition, and censorship of films in India, reflecting […]
Vote From Home in 2024 Election
Context: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has, for the first time in the history of the Lok Sabha elections, extended its ‘vote-from-home’ facility to Persons with Disabilities (PwD) and senior citizens aged 85 and above. Relevance: GS II: Polity and Governance Dimensions of the Article: Vote-from-Home Eligibility Criteria for Vote-from-Home: Process to Avail Vote-from-Home […]
Legacy of S. R. Bommai v. Union of India Case
Context: The S. R. Bommai v. Union of India case, decided by a nine-judge bench of the Supreme Court of India in 1994, restricts the arbitrary dismissal of state governments under Article 356. Celebrating its 30th anniversary, its impact persists in shaping India’s constitutional framework. Relevance: GS II: Polity and Governance Dimensions of the Article: […]
Defamation Under Indian Law
Context: The Supreme Court restrained a trial court from proceeding with a defamation case against Delhi Chief Minister for retweeting a YouTube video against the BJP’s IT cell. Relevance: GS II: Polity and Governance Dimensions of the Article: Defamation under Indian Law Definition and Classification Supreme Court Verdicts on Defamation and Free Speech Subramanian Swamy […]
Proposal for Simultaneous Elections in India
Context: The High-level Committee on Simultaneous Elections, led by former President Shri Ram Nath Kovind, has proposed a significant electoral reform advocating for simultaneous elections across Lok Sabha, state Assemblies, and local bodies in India. The committee’s comprehensive report, submitted to President Droupadi Murmu, includes recommendations and constitutional amendments aimed at facilitating this monumental change […]
Denotification of Civil Areas in Cantonments
Context: Recently, the Centre issued a notification to denotify civil areas of 10 out of 58 cantonments in the country. These areas will be merged with the respective state municipalities or local bodies. The government’s plan involves excluding specific areas from the cantonments and integrating them into the local governance structure of the respective states. […]
About Model Code of Conduct
Context: Chief Election Commissioner of India asked all political parties to strictly adhere to the Mode Code of Conduct (MCC), which lays down a list of dos and don’ts for leaders and parties ahead of elections. Relevance: GS II: Polity and Governance Dimensions of the Article: Model Code of Conduct (MCC) Duration and applicability: MCC […]