Uttarakhand Govt Must Not Enter Our Bedroom
The Uttarakhand government has introduced a bill mandating residents, whether they are from the state or not, to register their live-in relationships with district authorities. This move starkly contravenes the essential respect for individual freedoms, contradicts legal precedents established by the Supreme Court of India, challenges societal norms and raises questions about governance practices.
Why Ladakh is Demanding Statehood and Tribal Status
Thousands of protesters in Ladakh’s Leh and Kargil districts participated in a shutdown on Feb. 3, rallying against the constitutional changes following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. The protesters are seeking the restoration of statehood, tribal status for Ladakh and a parliamentary seat for each of the Leh and Kargil districts.
Why India-Myanmar Border Shouldn’t Be Fenced
The central government’s decision to fence the India-Myanmar border, purportedly to bolster national security by terminating the Free Movement Regime (FMR), may not necessarily achieve its intended security objectives. Instead, it could detrimentally impact the welfare of communities living along the border and create more security challenges, as indicated by experts and the affected populations themselves.
CBI Raid on Activist Harsh Mander Viewed as ‘Witch Hunt’
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducted raids on the premises of Harsh Mander, a human rights activist and former Indian Administrative Service officer, and the Centre for Equity Studies (CES), an organisation he is associated with, on Feb. 2. This action has led to criticism, with many viewing it as a politically motivated attempt to silence one of the government’s most articulate critics.
India Through the Mic of Community Radios
In a world yearning for journalism that is fair, precise and diverse, the role of on-the-ground community radio journalists who closely understand their people and challenges is indispensable. Every day, these extraordinary local reporters engage with their neighbours, friends and other residents recording issues faced by small-town India.
India’s Interim Budget 2024: What’s in It for Us?
India’s “interim” Union Budget for 2024-25, presented on Feb. 1, when analysed for its impact on the average citizen, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, uncovers several problematic aspects in key sectors such as education and health.
World’s First Trillionaire Isn’t Too Far Away
In the next 10 years, we’re about to see something huge happen: someone will become the world’s first trillionaire. A recent report, highlighted by CNBC, tells us this is not just a big deal for the rich person but a moment that makes us all think hard about what it means when one person has that much money.
United States Withholds Drone Delivery to India
The United States government has reportedly delayed the delivery of 31 MQ-9A Sea Guardian and Sky Guardian drones to India, linking it to the requirement for a comprehensive investigation into the alleged conspiracy to assassinate Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a New York-based Khalistan activist with dual U.S. and Canadian citizenship.
Govt Dismissed Tribal Concerns in Forest Law Revisions
A Newslaundry exclusive reveals that Harsh Chouhan, ex-chairman of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST), voiced serious concerns about recent changes to India’s forest laws. These amendments, made by the Union environment ministry in June 2022 and December 2023, have been slammed for leaning towards corporate interests at the expense of forest communities.
Activist Claims 97% of UAPA Detainees Innocent
A human rights activist and retired professor has asserted that 97% of individuals accused under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA) are ultimately found innocent following extended periods of incarceration without trial.
In India, How Much Time Do Married Working Women Get for Self-Care?
A working married woman in India, on average, spends over six hours daily to unpaid domestic chores and caregiving activities. In stark contrast, a married man gives merely 42 minutes per day to these tasks. As a result, women have significantly less time than men for self-care, leisure and socialising, as highlighted by a recent study.
Has the Manipur Government Lost Control?
The Manipur government appears to have yielded to the demands of an armed Meitei militia, Arambai Tenggol, marking a significant shift in the region’s power dynamics. It’s a glaring indication of the state government’s inability to maintain control and enforce the rule of law, which can have far-reaching implications, both for the state and for the broader national framework.
Our Duty Towards Solidarity, Coexistence and Scientific Temperament
On this Republic Day, let’s take a moment for introspection about our role as citizens. As per the Constitution of India, we are entrusted with certain Fundamental Duties. Among these, three duties – promoting brotherhood or solidarity, preserving our composite culture and developing a scientific temper and humanism – stand out for their relevance in today’s context. Let’s ask ourselves if we actively abide by these values in what we endorse, disseminate or tolerate?
Airlines in India Must Address Global Safety Issues With Boeing 737 Max
Akasa Air has announced it is purchasing 150 Boeing 737 Max jets, a model also operated by SpiceJet and Air India Express. The 737 Max has been under intense scrutiny and embroiled in controversy following two fatal crashes that precipitated its global grounding in 2019. Presently, renewed safety concerns regarding the aircraft have emerged.
Should Governments Use Algorithms in Public Service Delivery?
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in public service delivery promises efficiency and transparency, but the absence of policy frameworks governing its use can lead to grave injustices, particularly for the most vulnerable sections of society. In Telangana, an algorithm recently denied thousands of poor people access to food subsidies.
Three Reasons Why the Violence Persists in Manipur
A recent incident in Manipur’s Moreh town, where houses and schools were allegedly set ablaze by Manipur Police commandos, illuminates three primary reasons for the ongoing ethnic violence, which has persisted for over eight months. It also offers insights into the first steps required to cease the unrest.
Who is Ram Beyond Bricks and Politics?
The consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, on Jan. 22, mirrors India’s politics and culture to a far greater extent than its religious aspects. One wonders whether the Hindus who may disapprove of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) policies are genuinely pleased with the temple’s establishment. Can they focus on the essence of who Ram was and the depth of his teachings, solely because of the temple’s presence?
European Parliament Raises Concerns Over Violence and Divisive Policies in India
The European Parliament has adopted a resolution, expressing deep concerns over “acts of violence, increasing nationalistic rhetoric, and divisive policies” in India, months before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Which Countries are the World’s Worst Jailers of Journalists?
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has released its 2023 prison census, showing an alarming rise in the incarceration rates of journalists. This trend signals a systematic campaign by governments to suppress dissent and monopolise information dissemination. This phenomenon not only reflects the status of press freedom and democratic principles in individual countries but also carries extensive implications for human rights, the rule of law, the management of information, international relations, and societal involvement, profoundly affecting every citizen within those nations.
Disinformation is World’s Biggest Immediate Threat
The World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Global Risks Report 2024 identifies the rapid rise and spread of misinformation and disinformation as the most significant global risk over the next two years, shedding light on the nuances of this risk, its implications and the underlying factors that contribute to its proliferation.