ROLE OF SUPREME COURT IN CHECKING GOVERNOR’S DELAY IN ASSENT TO BILLS
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
Recently, Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai raised concerns over Governors delaying assent to State Bills for years, thereby obstructing legislative functioning. The debate has once again highlighted the tussle between constitutional morality and political discretion in India’s federal structure.
Issue of Delay by Governors
- Governors, under Article 200, have options regarding State Bills—assent, return, withhold, or reserve for the President’s consideration.
- In practice, some Governors have delayed decision-making indefinitely, creating a legislative deadlock.
- Example: The Tamil Nadu Governor kept important Bills pending for nearly four years without communication.
- Such inaction hampers the democratic will of elected assemblies and questions the accountability of constitutional heads.
Supreme Court’s Position
- In April 2024 judgment, SC held that Governors and the President must decide on Bills “as soon as possible”, implying a reasonable time limit.
- Thus, judicial review of Governor’s inaction is justified to prevent misuse of constitutional offices.
Relevance in Federal Politics
- Governor–State tussles are frequent in non-ruling party states:
- Kerala – Governor returned University Bills, citing autonomy concerns.
- Punjab and Telangana – Governors withheld crucial fiscal and welfare Bills.
- Such incidents raise questions on whether Governors act as neutral constitutional heads or as agents of the Union government.
Way Forward
- Clear guidelines or constitutional amendments may be required to define a time-frame for Governors’ assent.
- Need to uphold federal balance and legislative sovereignty of elected assemblies.
- Judicial oversight should act as a check on arbitrariness, without undermining legitimate discretion.
Conclusion
The debate underscores a larger constitutional dilemma—should the Supreme Court intervene to safeguard democratic functioning when Governors delay Bills indefinitely, or should such matters remain in the political arena? A balanced approach that respects separation of powers, while ensuring accountability of constitutional offices, is essential for strengthening India’s democracy.
PROPOSED TWO-RATE GST STRUCTURE: REFORM AND IMPLICATIONS
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
Recently, the Group of Ministers (GoM) on Rate Rationalisation endorsed the Centre’s proposal for a simplified two-rate GST structure, marking a step towards “next-generation GST reforms.”
Proposed Changes
- The present GST structure has four main slabs: 5%, 12%, 18%, and 28% (besides exemptions and cess).
- The Centre has proposed to retain only 5% and 18% slabs.
- Key shifts include:
- Items in the 12% slab → largely moved to 5%.
- Items in the 28% slab → mostly shifted to 18%.
- Sin goods (tobacco, cigarettes, online real-money gaming, etc.) → moved to a new 40% slab, replacing the current 28% + cess model.
- This would remove the compensation cess, simplifying the tax system.
Expected Benefits
- Reduced complexity → fewer slabs mean easier compliance and lower litigation.
- Consumer relief → everyday items moving from 12% to 5% will reduce the tax burden on households.
- Transparency → elimination of cess leads to clearer tax incidence.
- Formalisation push → simplification may encourage small businesses to comply.
Concerns for States
- Revenue loss: Moving goods from 12% to 5% and from 28% to 18% may significantly reduce collections.
- Fiscal federalism issue: States like Kerala have stressed the need for a compensation mechanism to offset losses.
- Dependence on higher sin-tax: Revenue stability may rely heavily on the proposed 40% slab.
Current Affairs Link
- In his 2024 Independence Day speech, PM Modi called these reforms a “Deepavali gift” to ease common citizens’ tax burden.
- The next GST Council meeting is expected in September 2024 to finalise the proposal.
- This reform aligns with India’s goal of making GST a “Good and Simple Tax”, as originally envisioned.
Conclusion
The proposed two-rate GST model represents a move towards simplification, transparency, and consumer relief. However, concerns over revenue security for States need careful addressing. A balanced approach ensuring both ease for taxpayers and fiscal autonomy for States will determine the long-term success of this reform.
ELECTORAL ROLL INTEGRITY, POLITICAL PARTIES, AND THE ECI
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
A clean electoral roll is the foundation of a fair democracy. However, issues like duplicate entries, ghost voters, and ineligible names continue to challenge India’s electoral integrity. While much criticism falls on the Election Commission of India (ECI), the role of political parties in neglecting or even enabling such irregularities is equally significant.
Erosion of ECI’s Credibility
- In the 1990s, under T.N. Seshan, the ECI became a strong guardian against electoral malpractice.
- Reforms like EPIC (Voter ID cards), stricter enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct, and monitoring of poll expenses enhanced trust.
- Over time, opacity and weak enforcement have reduced credibility, raising suspicion about ECI’s neutrality.
- Recent allegations, such as irregularities in Karnataka’s Mahadevapura constituency, highlight how gaps in supervision weaken electoral legitimacy.
Changing Role of Political Parties
- Earlier: Local party workers ensured strong ground connect through door-to-door campaigns and vigilance.
- Now: Parties rely more on digital campaigns, AI tools, and professional consultants, sidelining grassroots cadres.
- This shift has caused:
- Centralisation of power in leadership.
- Weakening of local organisational structures.
- Neglect of routine but vital tasks like scrutiny of draft rolls.
Institutional Mechanisms
- The ECI’s manual provides safeguards such as:
- Role of Booth Level Agents (BLAs) to verify rolls.
- Limits on bulk applications to prevent mass enrolment fraud.
- Mandatory cross-verification by Electoral Registration Officers for suspicious applications.
- In theory, these checks ensure transparency. But inactive BLAs or collusion can render them ineffective.
Political Responsibility
- Parties are expected to scrutinise electoral rolls, but negligence at the local level allows errors and manipulations.
- Some BLAs may be complicit or inactive, undermining the system.
- Reviving grassroots participation is essential to rebuild trust.
- Example: In Kerala’s recent local body elections, parties have become more vigilant in identifying duplicate and false entries.
Way Forward
- Strengthen coordination between ECI and local party units during revision periods.
- Encourage capacity-building of BLAs to improve accountability.
- Balance technology-driven campaigning with grassroots engagement.
- Enhance transparency and communication by the ECI to restore trust.
Conclusion
Electoral integrity rests not only on the ECI but also on responsible political parties. Neglecting grassroots structures for short-term gains risks hollowing out democratic institutions. A revitalised local party organisation, coupled with a transparent and accountable ECI, is necessary to protect citizens’ trust and ensure free and fair elections.
LAWFARE POLITICS AND FEDERAL PRINCIPLES
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
Recently, the Centre introduced three Bills, including a constitutional amendment, proposing that the Prime Minister, Chief Ministers, and Ministers would automatically lose office if detained for an offence carrying imprisonment of five years or more. Though projected as a move to improve accountability, the proposals raise serious concerns about federal balance, misuse of agencies, and natural justice.
Key Features of the Proposal
- Automatic removal of PM, CMs, and Ministers upon detention by a law enforcement agency.
- Reinstatement only after acquittal by a court.
- The government claims the law applies equally to the Prime Minister, but critics argue that central control over agencies makes such application unequal.
Concerns Raised
Erosion of Federalism
- In practice, the law would disproportionately affect State governments, as central agencies (ED, CBI, NIA) are under Union control.
- This could amount to indirect dismissal of elected governments without a judicial verdict.
Presumption of Guilt
- The proposals imply that detention equals culpability, undermining the principle of innocent until proven guilty.
- Existing laws already provide for disqualification upon conviction, making this proposal unnecessary.
Political Weaponisation of Agencies
- Growing perception that investigations are selective, targeting Opposition leaders, while those who switch allegiance to the ruling party escape scrutiny.
- Example: Multiple Opposition Chief Ministers and Ministers arrested in 2024 under PMLA, while defectors faced no action.
Civil Liberties at Risk
- Harsh bail provisions under PMLA and UAPA, along with judicial reluctance to grant bail, mean detention can effectively end political careers.
- This undermines people’s mandate, as elected leaders can be removed before trial.
Current Affairs Link
- In 2024–25, Opposition parties strongly criticised the proposal as an attempt at “lawfare”, i.e., using legal instruments for political gain.
- The debate coincides with broader controversies over Governor’s powers and centralisation of authority in India’s federal structure.
Conclusion
While corruption must be tackled firmly, combating it cannot justify measures that erode justice, liberty, and federalism. The new proposals risk turning law into a political tool, weakening both public trust in institutions and the sovereignty of the people’s mandate.
MILITARISATION IN SRI LANKA’S NORTH AND EAST: TAMIL CONCERNS
TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU
Sixteen years after the end of Sri Lanka’s civil war (2009), the Tamil-majority Northern and Eastern Provinces continue to witness heavy military presence. The recent killing of a Tamil youth, allegedly by army personnel in Mullaitivu district, reignited protests. The issue highlights concerns of human rights, federal governance, and post-war reconciliation.
Recent Trigger
- The Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kadchi (ITAK) called a hartal (shutdown) in August 2024 after the death of Ethirmanasingham Kapilraj, allegedly attacked by military men.
- ITAK demanded an independent probe and highlighted the “oppressive conduct” of the armed forces in Tamil regions.
- Three soldiers have been arrested; the government assured a fair investigation.
Extent of Militarisation
- Military presence is visibly higher in the north and east compared to other provinces.
- In Mullaitivu, the site of the war’s final battle, checkpoints and inspections by armed personnel are frequent.
- A 2017 civil society report found 60,000 soldiers for 1.3 lakh civilians in Mullaitivu — an extraordinary ratio.
- Military also runs businesses (hotels, farms, restaurants), directly competing with war-affected locals trying to rebuild livelihoods.
- Though the government claims 91% of occupied land has been returned, disputes remain over agricultural and worship sites.
Economic and Social Impact
- Defence allocation for 2024: LKR 442 billion ($1.5 billion), higher than education.
- Military commercialisation hampers civilian economy.
- Allegations of the military fostering drug dependency among Tamil youth, leading to mistrust and social unrest.
Government Stand
- President Anura Kumara Dissanayake announced plans to downsize the military by 2030.
- Military presence said to be “significantly reduced” since 2009, but exact figures remain undisclosed.
- Commitment made to return occupied land to rightful owners.
UN Human Rights Office (2024 report):
- Criticised lack of security sector reforms even after 16 years.
- Called for reduction of troop presence in Tamil areas.
- Urged separation of military from law enforcement and commercial activities.
Current Relevance
- In 2024, Tamil protests revived global attention on Sri Lanka’s accountability and reconciliation failures.
- India has consistently stressed the importance of the 13th Amendment and meaningful devolution of powers to address Tamil grievances.
- The issue also shapes India–Sri Lanka relations, especially in the context of regional security and Tamil Nadu’s political sensitivities.
Conclusion
Sri Lanka’s path to peace requires genuine reconciliation, not prolonged militarisation. The excessive role of the armed forces undermines democracy, human rights, and the economic recovery of Tamils. Security sector reform and federal devolution are essential for sustainable peace and stability in the island nation.
UNREGULATED COSMETOLOGY CLINICS IN INDIA: A GROWING PUBLIC HEALTH CONCERN
TOPIC: (GS2) GOVERNANCE: THE HINDU
The booming aesthetic and wellness industry in India has created a parallel rise in unregulated cosmetology and dermatology clinics. While the market was valued at USD 2.5 billion in 2024, it is projected to touch USD 4 billion by 2033 (IMARC Report).
Scope of the Problem
- Mushrooming of cosmetology clinics across cities, often without medical oversight.
- Growing demand due to social media influence, beauty standards, and rising disposable income.
- Public perception that cosmetic procedures are quick and safe, leading to unchecked demand.
Key Issues
Unqualified Practitioners
- Dentists, AYUSH doctors, and even non-medical individuals performing hair transplants, botox, fillers, PRP facials.
- Short-term, unrecognised “weekend certificate courses” sold for ₹1–2 lakh used as a license to practice.
Unsafe Clinics
- Many clinics function without sterilisation protocols, proper licenses, or hospital tie-ups.
- Qualified doctors’ names often misused without their presence.
Health Risks
- Cases of necrotising fasciitis, skin barrier damage, steroid withdrawal, and even deaths.
- Patients misled with unlabelled creams, fake PRP, exaggerated claims.
Misuse of Terminology
- “Cosmetology” often confused with dermatology.
- True cosmetology refers to beauty services (haircuts, makeup, manicures), not medical procedures.
Regulatory Challenges
- Weak enforcement of the National Medical Commission (NMC) Guidelines on Aesthetic Surgery & Hair Transplant Procedures.
- Overlap and conflict between NMC, Dental Council, and AYUSH councils.
- Lack of inspections or dedicated monitoring bodies.
- Kerala Clinical Establishments Act and similar laws in other states not fully implemented.
Current Efforts
- Indian Association of Dermatologists (IADVL) committees actively highlighting quackery in dermatology.
- Karnataka IADVL submitted memorandum for public awareness campaign.
- Telangana Medical Council carrying out inspections, booking clinics under Sections 34 & 54 of NMC Act for impersonation and illegal practice.
- Some state councils issuing warnings, but action remains piecemeal.
Way Forward
- Strict licensing and inspection system for clinics offering dermatology/aesthetic services.
- Public awareness campaigns to counter misleading advertisements.
- Clear demarcation of scope of practice among MBBS, dermatologists, dentists, AYUSH, and beauty professionals.
- Establishment of a national registry of practitioners with recognised qualifications.
- Encouraging patients to seek care only from board-certified dermatologists and plastic surgeons.
Conclusion
India’s booming cosmetology market holds promise but also risks sliding into a public health crisis if left unchecked. Regulation, enforcement, and awareness are critical to safeguard vulnerable patients. As experts warn, “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”
CHINA–PAKISTAN–AFGHANISTAN TRILATERAL AND CPEC EXTENSION
TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU
The recent trilateral meeting of the foreign ministers of China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan marks a new phase in regional geopolitics. The decision to extend the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into Afghanistan has implications not only for the three countries but also for India’s strategic and security interests.
Key Objectives of the Trilateral Engagement
- Connectivity and Trade Integration: Expansion of CPEC to link Afghanistan with Central Asian markets; completion of railway lines between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
- Resource Exploration: China to invest in Afghanistan’s mineral sector, including lithium and copper.
- Political and Diplomatic Ties: Taliban’s participation in BRI platforms, giving them visibility despite lack of global recognition.
- Security Cooperation:
- Pakistan seeks Taliban action against the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
- China is concerned about the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM) operating from Afghan soil.
Strategic Significance
For China:
- Ensuring stability of CPEC and Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects.
- Expanding footprint in Central Asia and Afghanistan’s resource sector.
- Projecting itself as a regional mediator after US exit.
For Afghanistan (Taliban regime):
- Gains diplomatic legitimacy through Chinese engagement.
- Access to infrastructure, jobs, and trade opportunities.
- Ability to balance regional dependence on Pakistan with China’s partnership.
For Pakistan:
- Leverage against Taliban on TTP violence.
- Revival of stalled CPEC projects amid domestic instability.
- Strengthening its role as a gateway to Central Asia.
Implications for India
- Sovereignty Issue: CPEC passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), undermining India’s territorial claims.
- Strategic Exclusion: India sidelined despite major contributions to Afghan development (Parliament building, hospitals, dams).
- Security Risks: A stronger China–Pakistan–Afghanistan axis could embolden extremist groups hostile to India.
- Connectivity Competition: Challenges India’s Chabahar Port and International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) initiatives.
Way Forward for India
- Maintain strategic autonomy by balancing ties with US, Russia, and Indo-Pacific partners.
- Engage Taliban through pragmatic diplomacy without formal recognition.
- Push humanitarian projects to sustain goodwill among Afghan citizens.
- Accelerate work on Chabahar Port and INSTC as counter-connectivity routes.
- Enhance counter-terror cooperation within SCO and Central Asian networks.
Conclusion
The CPEC extension to Afghanistan underlines China’s deepening regional role and Pakistan’s attempt to secure its western frontier. For India, this development is both a strategic challenge and a call for proactive diplomacy. By strengthening alternative connectivity frameworks and calibrated engagement, India can safeguard its sovereignty and maintain influence in the evolving regional order.
INDIA’S AGNI-5 BALLISTIC MISSILE TEST
TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU
India has recently conducted a successful flight test of the Agni-5 Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM) under the Strategic Forces Command (SFC). The test reaffirms India’s commitment to credible minimum deterrence and strengthens its nuclear posture amid growing regional security challenges.
Features of Agni-5 Missile
- Type: A nuclear-capable, surface-to-surface ballistic missile designed for long-range precision strikes.
- Range: Exceeds 5,000 km, covering vast areas of Asia and parts of Europe.
- Propulsion: Powered by a three-stage solid-fuel engine, ensuring higher stability and quick launch readiness.
- Trajectory: Follows an unpowered ballistic path after initial rocket boost.
- Developer: Built indigenously by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
- Programme Link: Part of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP) that also developed Prithvi, Nag, Akash, and Trishul.
- MIRV Technology: Potential to carry Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicles (MIRVs), allowing a single missile to strike several targets.
Strategic Significance
- Places India in an exclusive group of countries (US, Russia, China, France) with comparable missile technology.
- Strengthens credible deterrence under the Nuclear Command Authority (NCA).
- Enhances second-strike capability crucial for India’s No-First-Use (NFU) doctrine.
- Counters China’s missile arsenal and provides extended security cover over the Indo-Pacific.
Current Relevance
- The test comes at a time of heightened border tensions with China and regional instability in the Indian Ocean.
- In April 2025, India also tested Agni-Prime (Agni-P), a newer missile variant with improved accuracy, highlighting continuous modernisation of strategic forces.
- Aligns with India’s aim of strengthening its role in global non-proliferation forums while maintaining strategic autonomy.
Conclusion
The successful trial of Agni-5 reinforces India’s image as a responsible nuclear power with credible deterrence capabilities. By enhancing both reach and precision, it strengthens national security while ensuring stability in a complex regional environment.