RIGHT TO DIGITAL ACCESS UNDER ARTICLE 21 & INCLUSIVE KYC NORMS
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
On April 30, 2024, the Supreme Court directed the revision of digital KYC procedures to make them accessible for persons with disabilities (PwDs). It interpreted Article 21 of the Constitution to include the ‘right to digital access’, highlighting barriers faced by visually impaired individuals and acid attack survivors during online identity verification.
Supreme Court’s Stand
The court reaffirmed that digital accessibility is a constitutional necessity, forming part of the right to life and dignity under Article 21.
In its judgment, the SC:
- Recognized digital access as a fundamental right.
- Cited Articles 14, 15, and 38 to ensure equality and social justice.
- Ordered authorities to revise KYC norms with accessibility as a core principle.
- Emphasized the broader impact on elderly, rural users, and other vulnerable groups.
Why is KYC Verification Needed?
- To fight money laundering and illegal activities, the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 makes KYC mandatory for banks and institutions.
- It is required for accessing essential services like: Opening bank or demat accounts, Getting mobile SIMs or insurance, Receiving government benefits like pensions or DBTs
- The RBI’s 2016 KYC introduced the Video-based Customer Identification Process (V-CIP) for remote verification, which includes: Uploading selfies, OTP authentication, Reading a flashing code onscreen
Legal Protection for PwDs
- The Constitution, via Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles, supports equal rights for all, including PwDs.
- The Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016 promotes a social barrier model, recognizing that disability results from both physical impairments and social/environmental obstacles.
- Section 42 of the RPwD Act requires the government to make all digital, audio, and print content accessible using universal design principles like sign language, captions, and audio descriptions.
Challenges Faced by PwDs
Visually impaired persons and acid attack survivors face major hurdles with existing digital KYC norms:
- Tasks like reading flashing codes or capturing selfies are not possible for blind users.
- Websites and apps lack features like screen reader compatibility, audio instructions, or touch navigation.
- Thumb impressions are often not accepted as valid signatures; PAN cards can’t be issued with them.
- Aadhaar-based biometric systems also exclude many due to poor accessibility in scanners and devices.
- RBI rules prohibit any prompting or assistance, leaving PwDs without help during verification.
ARTICLE 21 – PROTECTION OF LIFE AND PERSONAL LIBERTY
Article 21 states: “No person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to procedure established by law.”
- It applies to both citizens and non-citizens.
Expansive Interpretation
- Over the years, the Supreme Court has expanded Article 21 to include a wide range of rights such as:
- Right to privacy
- Right to livelihood
- Right to health and education
- Right to clean environment
Due Process of Law
- In the Maneka Gandhi case (1978), the court interpreted that any law affecting personal liberty must be just, fair, and reasonable – not just procedurally correct.
Judicial Activism
- Article 21 has become the foundation of judicial activism in India, enabling the courts to protect human dignity and welfare through Public Interest Litigations (PILs).
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s decision is a step toward ensuring digital inclusion for all, especially the disabled. It underlines the need to create systems that allow equal access to essential services in a digital age.
NEW BEGINNING – SYRIA SHOULD DISMANTLE ARMED GROUPS AND ADOPT INCLUSIVE CONSTITUTION
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
Ahmed al-Sharaa (formerly al-Qaeda-linked leader) met U.S. President Donald Trump after Syria’s Islamist group HTS seized power in Damascus in 2024. With U.S. lifting sanctions and global diplomatic recognition, a new chapter begins for Syria amid concerns over extremism and minority rights.
New Syrian Leadership
- Ahmed al-Sharaa, previously known as Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, led Jabhat al-Nusra, an al-Qaeda affiliate during Syria’s civil war.
- His group, now called Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), took control of Damascus in December 2024, overthrowing Bashar al-Assad’s secular regime.
- Once a wanted terrorist, he is now gaining acceptance internationally, meeting world leaders including those from the U.S., France, and Qatar.
Shift in International Approach
- The U.S. lifted decades-long sanctions on Syria, allowing economic reintegration and potential foreign investment, especially in the oil and gas sector.
- Arab countries and Western powers are engaging with the new Syrian leadership, hoping for regional stability and reconstruction opportunities.
- This recognition offers Syria a rare chance to rebuild after years of conflict, but with conditions on governance and human rights.
Rising Internal Tensions and Risks
- Despite promises of reform, sectarian violence continues:
- Alawite communities (linked to former President Assad) were attacked in Latakia.
- Druze minorities report targeted violence and call it a “genocidal campaign”.
- Kurds in the northeast demand autonomy and democratic governance, opposing HTS’s central control.
- There are fears of Syria becoming like Libya or Afghanistan, where violent power struggles weakened state structures.
The Road Ahead for Syria
- Disbanding armed extremist groups is essential to prevent future instability.
- The government must draft a new, inclusive constitution that ensures equal rights for all ethnic and religious groups.
- Minority protections, women’s rights, and democratic processes need to be safeguarded.
- A decentralised governance model could help accommodate Syria’s diverse population.
- Long-term peace depends on balancing religious ideologies with modern state-building principles.
SYRIAN CIVIL WAR (2011)
- Triggered by the Arab Spring, peaceful protests began against President Bashar al-Assad’s rule.
- Crackdowns turned the movement into a full-scale civil war, with multiple factions: Assad regime, rebel groups, Kurdish militias, and later, extremist forces.
Rise of ISIS (2013–2014)
- ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria) took advantage of the conflict’s chaos.
- Seized large parts of eastern Syria and western Iraq and declared a “caliphate” in 2014, with Raqqa as their capital.
- Known for mass executions, beheadings, destruction of heritage sites, and global terror plots.
Global Involvement
- Russia supported Assad with airstrikes and advisors (from 2015).
- U.S.-led coalition targeted ISIS and backed Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
- Iran sent militias and funding to defend Assad.
- Turkey opposed both Assad and Kurdish groups, launching cross-border operations.
Defeat of ISIS Caliphate (2019)
- After major offensives by the SDF and U.S. forces, ISIS lost its last stronghold – Baghouz – in 2019.
- While its territory collapsed, ISIS remains active via sleeper cells and sporadic attacks in Syria, Iraq, and beyond.
Current Geopolitical Picture
- Assad controls most of Syria, but Kurdish forces, Turkey, U.S. troops, and rebel factions still hold parts of the country.
- The war caused over 500,000 deaths and millions of refugees.
- Deepened Sunni-Shia rivalries, U.S.-Russia tensions, and Turkey-Kurdish conflict.
Conclusion
Syria has a chance for recovery and peace, but only if its leaders prioritise inclusive governance, justice, and unity. Without this, the country could again fall into violence and division.
BIHAR’S HIGH FERTILITY RATE AND ITS LINK TO POVERTY AND DEVELOPMENT
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
The Sample Registration System (SRS) Report 2021 has revealed that Bihar has the highest Total Fertility Rate (TFR) in India at 3.0, while the national average is 2.0. This raises questions about the role of poverty, social customs, and development in influencing fertility trends.
Bihar’s TFR
- The Total Fertility Rate (TFR) is the average number of children a woman is expected to have during her reproductive years.
- Bihar’s TFR has been stuck at around 3.0 for the past 6–7 years.
- The State is projected to reach replacement-level fertility (TFR 2.1) only by 2039, making it the slowest in fertility transition in India.
Role of Poverty in High Fertility
- While poverty has declined in Bihar (as per NITI Aayog’s Multidimensional Poverty Index), TFR remains high.
- Economic hardship often leads families to have more children for labour and security.
- However, experts argue that poverty alone does not explain the high fertility; cultural preferences also play a key role.
Cultural and Social Factors
- In Bihar, only 49.6% of women believe two children are ideal, compared to 67% nationally.
- There is a strong preference for sons, especially in rural and landed households.
- Families often aim for at least two sons, leading to larger families due to biological uncertainty.
Urban-Rural Fertility Gap in Bihar
- Rural TFR in Bihar is 3.1, while urban TFR is 2.3, both higher than the national average.
- Surprisingly, urban areas in Bihar, which typically have better education and resources, also show above-replacement fertility, indicating a conscious choice to have more children.
Impact of Female Education and Autonomy
- Female literacy in Bihar was only 53% in 2011, affecting fertility behavior.
- Educated women tend to prefer smaller families, but social restrictions and low autonomy limit their decision-making power.
- Studies show that mothers-in-law often control access to health workers (ASHA), reducing women’s exposure to family planning.
Economic and Institutional Barriers
- Bihar remains one of the least industrialized states, with high unemployment and poor primary education.
- Low urbanization and job scarcity influence family decisions to have more children for future economic security.
Political Implications
- With high TFR and growing population, States like Bihar, UP, and MP could end up with larger parliamentary constituencies post-delimitation.
- Southern states with lower TFR fear being penalized for better demographic management, raising concerns about fair representation in future governance.
Total Fertility Rate (TFR)
Total Fertility Rate (TFR) refers to the average number of children a woman is expected to give birth to during her lifetime, assuming she passes through her childbearing years following current age-specific fertility rates.
- It is a key demographic indicator to measure population growth or decline.
- A TFR of 2.1 is considered the replacement level fertility, meaning the population will remain stable without migration.
TFR – India & Regional Comparisons (As per NFHS-5, 2019–21)
- India’s overall TFR has dropped to 2.0, which is below replacement level.
- Southern states have significantly lower TFRs:
- Kerala: 1.8
- Tamil Nadu: 1.6
- Karnataka: 1.7
- Andhra Pradesh: 1.7
TFR in Bihar – Still High
- Bihar’s TFR is 3.0, the highest in the country, despite falling from earlier levels.
- Factors contributing to high fertility in Bihar include:
- Early marriage and teenage pregnancy
- Low female literacy
- Poor access to family planning and reproductive health services
- Socio-economic and cultural preferences for larger families
Conclusion
Bihar’s high fertility rate is shaped by a complex mix of poverty, cultural norms, education levels, and economic opportunities. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach combining education, healthcare, women empowerment, and job creation.
ARTICLE 143 REFERENCE BY THE PRESIDENT
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
President Droupadi Murmu has invoked Article 143(1) to seek the Supreme Court’s opinion on 14 constitutional questions related to the roles of the Governor and the President in giving assent to State Bills. This follows the April 2024 Supreme Court ruling introducing the idea of “deemed assent,” which triggered a significant debate.
Background and Importance of Article 143
- Article 143(1) empowers the President to consult the Supreme Court on questions of law or fact of public importance.
- The Court’s opinion is advisory in nature, not binding, but carries strong legal and constitutional influence.
- This provision ensures institutional balance and constitutional clarity on sensitive matters.
Relevant Articles
- Article 200: Provides the Governor four choices on State Bills – assent, withhold assent, reserve for President, or return (if not a money bill).
- Article 201: Empowers the President to approve, reject, or return Bills reserved by the Governor.
- Article 361: Grants the President and Governors personal immunity from court proceedings.
- Article 142: Gives SC powers to pass orders for “complete justice”.
- Article 131: Allows the SC to settle Centre-State disputes.
- Article 145(3): Constitutional interpretation must be done by a minimum five-judge bench.
Key Constitutional Questions Referred to SC BY PRESIDENT
- Governor’s Powers on Bills: What options can a Governor legally exercise when a Bill is presented to them?
- Role of State Cabinet: Is the Governor bound by the advice of the State’s Council of Ministers?
- Judicial Scrutiny of Governor’s Decisions: Can the Governor’s discretion under Article 200 be challenged in court?
- Limits of Judicial Review under Article 361: Does Article 361 completely shield the Governor from legal examination?
- Can Courts Set Deadlines?: Can judicial timelines be imposed for action under Article 200?
- President’s Discretion under Article 201: Can the President’s role on reserved Bills be legally reviewed?
- Court-Imposed Timelines on President?: Can the Court dictate how and when the President must act?
- Must President Seek SC Advice Again?: Should the President always refer Bills to the SC when reserved by the Governor?
- Court Interference Before Bill Becomes Law: Can courts intervene in a Bill’s content before it becomes law?
- Can SC Use Article 142 to Overrule Governors?: Can the SC override Presidential/Gubernatorial powers?
- Legal Status of Bills Without Assent: Is a Bill passed by a legislature but pending assent considered law?
- Interpretation Needs Constitution Bench?: Should all such cases be decided by a 5-judge Constitution Bench?
- Scope of Article 142 – Substantive Law?: Can SC use Article 142 to pass orders that override existing laws?
- Is Article 131 the Only Route for Centre-State Disputes?: Are other SC jurisdictions also available beyond Article 131?
Previous Events on This Issue
- April 2024 Supreme Court Verdict: Introduced “deemed assent” if the Governor delays a Bill beyond a reasonable time, stirring constitutional debate.
- Tamil Nadu-Governor Conflict: Disputes over delays in assent by Governor R.N. Ravi raised the issue of Governor’s accountability.
- Punjab & Kerala Cases: Similar tensions have arisen where State governments accused Governors of withholding Bills without justification.
Why This Matter Is Constitutionally Crucial
- These questions touch on federal structure, separation of powers, and democratic functioning.
- It will help clarify the limits of constitutional offices like the Governor and the President.
- It can also resolve disputes arising from Centre-State tensions and improve legislative efficiency.
Separation of Powers in India:
India follows a functional separation of powers – The Constitution divides powers among the Legislature (makes laws), Executive (implements laws), and Judiciary (interprets laws), ensuring a system of checks and balances.
However, there is no strict separation – Unlike the U.S., India has a blended system where some overlap exists (e.g., the executive is part of the legislature), but each organ is expected to function independently within its domain.
- Legislature (Parliament & State Assemblies) – makes laws.
- Executive (President, Prime Minister, and Council of Ministers) – implements laws.
- Judiciary (Supreme Court, High Courts, Subordinate Courts) – interprets and enforces laws.
Constitutional Basis:
- Article 50: Directs the State to separate the judiciary from the executive in the public services of the State.
- Articles 121 & 211: Bar discussion in legislatures on the conduct of judges.
- Article 122 & 212: Protect legislative proceedings from judicial interference.
No Rigid Separation – Only a Doctrine of Limited Separation:
India does not follow a strict separation like the U.S.
- There is interdependence: Executive is drawn from the legislature (e.g., Prime Minister is an MP).
- Judiciary can declare laws passed by legislature unconstitutional (judicial review – Article 13, Article 32, Article 226).
- Checks and Balances exist, but the roles overlap in practice to ensure coordinated governance.
INDUS WATERS TREATY: NEED FOR REASSESSMENT AMID CLIMATE CHANGE
TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU
India has put the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) on hold, citing repeated cross-border terror attacks, including the recent Pahalgam attack that killed 26 Indian tourists. India also raised the need to revise the outdated treaty, which was signed in 1960 and does not account for climate change impacts like glacier melt, rising temperatures, and altered river flows.
Background of the Treaty
- The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) was signed between India and Pakistan in 1960, brokered by the World Bank.
- It allocates water from the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab rivers to Pakistan and Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej to India.
- The treaty has survived several wars and conflicts, but tensions have risen in recent decades.
Why the Treaty Needs Revision
Changed Geopolitical Scenario
- In 1960, India and Pakistan had smaller populations and fewer urban areas.
- Now, India’s population has grown to 1.46 billion, and Pakistan’s to 255 million, putting pressure on water resources.
- Terror attacks and diplomatic tensions also affect cooperation.
Climate Change Effects
- Melting Himalayan glaciers are changing river flows.
- Heatwaves, floods, and droughts have become more frequent and intense.
- These changes were not considered in the original treaty.
Water Mismanagement
- Both countries have focused on increasing water supply, rather than managing demand.
- Agriculture uses 85–90% of water in both nations.
- Water tables are falling sharply in Punjab on both sides due to overuse.
Rising Urban & Energy Demand
- More people living in cities means higher water use for homes and industries.
- Extreme heat increases the need for electricity, and power plants need water for cooling.
- This puts additional pressure on river systems.
Missing Elements in the Treaty
- IWT deals only with surface water, ignoring: Groundwater usage, Water quality, Demand-side management
- There’s no flexibility or built-in review mechanism to adapt to changing needs.
Way Forward
- India and Pakistan must work towards a modernized treaty that includes climate realities.
- Both need to rethink water use in agriculture and invest in efficient practices.
- A revised treaty should include climate adaptation, joint data sharing, and flexible water governance.
RIVERS INCLUDED IN THE INDUS WATERS TREATY:
- Indus River – Originates in Tibet and flows through Ladakh into Pakistan, forming the main river of the Indus system, allocated to Pakistan.
- Jhelum River – Rises from Verinag in Jammu & Kashmir and flows into Pakistan, crucial for Pakistan’s irrigation, allocated to Pakistan.
- Chenab River – Originates in Himachal Pradesh and flows through Jammu & Kashmir into Pakistan, allocated to Pakistan.
- Ravi River – Originates in Himachal Pradesh and flows along the India-Pakistan border before entering Pakistan, allocated to India.
- Beas River – Entirely flows within India, originating from Himachal Pradesh and joining the Sutlej, allocated to India.
- Sutlej River – Originates in Tibet, flows through Himachal Pradesh and Punjab before entering Pakistan, allocated to India.
Conclusion:
With rising geopolitical tension and the growing impact of climate change, the Indus Waters Treaty must evolve from a rigid pact to a dynamic agreement that ensures cooperative and sustainable water sharing.
DESALINATION TECHNOLOGY
TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has created a new indigenous polymer-based membrane for seawater desalination. This development supports the Indian Coast Guard’s need for reliable freshwater onboard ships and is part of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Desalination Technology
- Desalination is the process of removing salts and minerals from seawater to make it suitable for drinking or industrial use.
- It is especially important in coastal and arid regions where freshwater sources are limited.
Development by DRDO
- The new desalination membrane was developed by Defence Materials Stores Research and Development Establishment (DMSRDE), Kanpur.
- The membrane is high-pressure, nanoporous, and multilayered, designed to endure harsh marine environments.
- It tackles problems caused by chloride ions in saline water, which often degrade conventional membranes.
- This membrane enhances self-sufficiency in fresh water supply for Indian Coast Guard vessels like Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs).
Strategic Importance
- Boosts India’s defence capabilities by ensuring fresh water onboard during extended sea missions.
- Promotes indigenous technology and reduces dependency on foreign desalination systems.
- Supports the Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) vision in the defence and marine sectors.
Methods of Desalination
Reverse Osmosis (RO)
- Uses a semi-permeable membrane and external pressure to separate pure water from salt water.
- Effective for removing Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) from seawater (typically around 35,000 ppm) down to potable levels (200–500 ppm).
Thermal Desalination
- Involves heating saline water until it evaporates and then condensing the steam to collect fresh water.
- Commonly used where waste heat is available, such as in power plants.
How Reverse Osmosis Works
- Normally, water moves from low to high solute concentration (osmosis).
- In RO, pressure is applied to force water from high to low solute concentration—opposite to natural flow.
- Only water molecules pass through the membrane; salts and impurities are blocked.
Conclusion
DRDO’s innovation enhances maritime sustainability and showcases technological advancement in water treatment. The initiative is a step forward in addressing freshwater scarcity and achieving self-reliance in critical defence infrastructure.
GOLDEN DRAGON 2025
TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: INDIAN EXPRESS
Golden Dragon is a bilateral military exercise between China and Cambodia, started in 2016. It aims to improve defence cooperation, strategic coordination, and disaster-response capabilities.
Golden Dragon 2025
- The 2025 edition is the biggest version to date, involving air, naval, and ground forces.
- Held at Ream Naval Base, Sihanoukville (Southern Cambodia), which recently welcomed Chinese warships.
- The base’s development marks China’s rising naval presence in the Gulf of Thailand.
Key Features
- The official theme focuses on counter-terrorism operations and humanitarian assistance.
- Demonstrates China’s growing defence technology, including: Reconnaissance and combat drones, Surgical robots for battlefield use, Robot dogs, showing interest in AI-based warfare systems.
Geopolitical Concerns
- The drills coincide with the Balikatan 2025 exercise, led by the U.S., Philippines, Australia, and Japan.
- Raises alarms about China gaining access to dual-use military ports in Cambodia, similar to:n Sri Lanka’s Hambantota Port, Pakistan’s Gwadar Port
Strategic Significance
- Shows China’s ability to expand military influence beyond its borders.
- Fits into the “String of Pearls” strategy, where China develops a network of ports across the Indian Ocean to protect its interests.
Conclusion
Golden Dragon 2025 reflects China’s growing military ambitions in Southeast Asia and highlights the ongoing power contest in the Indo-Pacific region.
AGAMAS
T TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU
The Supreme Court has asked a Madras High Court committee to submit a report within three months to distinguish between Agamic and non-Agamic temples in Tamil Nadu. The issue is significant for managing temple rituals and preserving ancient religious traditions.
What are Agamas?
- Agamas are a group of Hindu religious texts that guide worship, rituals, temple design, and spiritual practices.
- The term “Agama” means “that which has come down” — referring to teachings passed through generations.
- These texts provide detailed instructions on:
- Philosophy and cosmology
- Meditation and different forms of yoga
- Use of mantras
- Building temples and idol worship
- Ways to fulfill spiritual and material goals
Main Branches of Agamic Texts
- Shaiva Agamas – related to the worship of Lord Shiva
- Vaishnava Agamas – centered on Lord Vishnu
- Shakta Agamas (Tantras) – devoted to Goddess Shakti
Relation with Vedas
- Though Agamas are not derived from the Vedas, they do not contradict Vedic teachings.
- They are considered Vedic in spirit, which gives them religious authority.
Relevance in Tamil Nadu Temples
- Many temples in South India, especially in Tamil Nadu, follow Agamic rules for:
- Daily rituals
- Festivals
- Temple management
- Proper classification between Agamic and non-Agamic temples affects how rituals are performed and who can perform them.
Why It Matters
- The identification process will help in preserving traditional religious practices.
- It also raises issues related to temple autonomy, priest appointments, and state control over religious institutions.
Conclusion
The study of Agamic and non-Agamic temples is crucial for protecting India’s temple heritage, especially in Tamil Nadu where Agama traditions shape daily worship practices.