Denotified Tribes (DNTs), once branded as 'criminal' under colonial-era laws, are seeking a separate category in the upcoming Census to ensure better targeting of welfare schemes. Currently, many DNTs are subsumed under SC, ST, or OBC categories, leading to uneven benefit distribution. The Idate Commission (2018) and Renke Commission (2008) have previously highlighted their socio-economic marginalization. While the government launched the SEED scheme for their welfare, community leaders argue that without accurate enumeration and a distinct identity, their specific needs regarding land rights, education, and social stigma remain unaddressed.
- DNTs were originally classified under the Criminal Tribes Act (CTA) of 1871, which was repealed only in 1952.
- The Habitual Offenders Act replaced the CTA, continuing the social stigma of 'criminality' for many nomadic communities.
- The SEED scheme (Scheme for Economic Empowerment of DNTs) focuses on education, health, and livelihoods for these groups.
Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin argues for a recalibration of Indian federalism, moving away from the 'centralising bias' established during the post-Partition era. He highlights that while the Constitution is federal in structure, the Union Executive often overrides State powers through micro-management and concurrent list legislation. The article cites the S.R. Bommai case, which declared federalism part of the Basic Structure. Stalin calls for implementing recommendations from various commissions to restore state autonomy in sectors like health and education, ensuring a more efficient Union and accountable governance through decentralized power and fiscal autonomy.
- Federalism is a 'Basic Structure' of the Constitution as per the S.R. Bommai vs Union of India (1994) judgment.
- The Union government is accused of using the Concurrent List to steer state priorities through subordinate legislation and micro-management.
- The Government of Tamil Nadu constituted the Justice Kurian Joseph Committee to review contemporary federal challenges and Union-State relations.
The Supreme Court has agreed to refer petitions to a Constitution Bench to examine if Section 44(3) of the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023, cripples the Right to Information (RTI) Act. The provision amends Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act, potentially creating a 'blanket ban' on disclosing personal information of public officials. Petitioners argue this removes the 'public interest' override and the discretion of Public Information Officers to balance privacy and transparency. The court will define what constitutes 'personal information' and whether the amendment violates the fundamental right to information under Article 19 of the Constitution.
- Section 44(3) of the DPDP Act 2023 amends Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act 2005, removing the proviso for public interest disclosure.
- Critics argue the amendment equates the privacy of public functionaries with that of ordinary citizens, hindering government accountability.
- The 2019 'CPIO vs Supreme Court' judgment previously established a proportionality test for balancing privacy and the right to information.
The article discusses the demand for "machine readable" electoral rolls, advocated by opposition leaders like Rahul Gandhi, to be made available to political parties. Currently, the Election Commission (EC) provides voter rolls as image PDF files or printouts, which are difficult to analyze for duplicates and irregularities. The EC stopped uploading machine-readable rolls in 2018, citing concerns about foreign countries accessing sensitive voter data. While Optical Character Recognition (OCR) can convert scanned documents, the EC's fragmented website structure makes this process challenging and costly. Proponents argue that searchable digital rolls would significantly improve transparency and aid in detecting electoral fraud, despite potential risks of data misuse.
- There is a demand for the Election Commission to provide "machine readable" electoral rolls to political parties.
- Current voter rolls are provided as image PDF files or printouts, making analysis for fraud difficult.
- The EC ceased uploading machine-readable rolls in 2018 due to concerns about data security and foreign access.
India plans to amend the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damages Act (CLNDA), 2010, and the Atomic Energy Act (AEA), 1962, to address supplier liability issues and permit private sector participation in nuclear energy. These amendments are expected to trigger significant debate in Parliament, as similar attempts in the past led to standoffs between the government and opposition parties. Concerns have been raised by the Congress about diluting supplier accountability, increasing domestic risk, and favoring international corporations. India aims to significantly increase its nuclear power capacity to 22.48 GW by 2031-32 and 100 GW by 2047. The article emphasizes the need for a comprehensive debate involving all stakeholders on nuclear energy's future, including small modular reactors and waste disposal.
- India intends to amend the CLNDA, 2010, and AEA, 1962, to clarify supplier liability and allow private sector involvement in nuclear energy.
- The proposed amendments are expected to face strong opposition, similar to past debates on nuclear legislation.
- Concerns include potential dilution of supplier accountability, increased domestic risk, and favoritism towards foreign interests.
The article discusses how India's democracy is failing migrant citizens due to widespread disenfranchisement caused by deletions from electoral rolls. Over 1.4 million voters in Mumbai alone were disenrolled. Migrants frequently move for work, making it difficult to update their voter registration, leading to their exclusion. The Election Commission's ERONET system is used for updates, but the process is often complex for migrants. Political parties are criticized for largely ignoring migrant issues, further exacerbating the problem. The article calls for a more flexible and accessible voter registration system, potentially including multi-location voting, to ensure migrants' democratic rights are upheld and prevent their political marginalization.
- Migrant citizens in India are disproportionately affected by deletions from electoral rolls, leading to disenfranchisement.
- Frequent relocation for work makes it challenging for migrants to update their voter registration details.
- Political parties often overlook the issues faced by migrant voters, contributing to their marginalization.
The Supreme Court questioned the Centre regarding the powers of Governors to withhold assent to State Bills under Article 200 of the Constitution, asking if elected State governments are at the mercy of Governors' whims. A Presidential Reference Bench, headed by Chief Justice B.R. Gavai, examined the Centre's submission that State Bills would lapse if Governors withheld assent. The Solicitor-General argued that the power to withhold assent should be used sparingly, especially when it frustrates democratic will or violates fundamental rights. The Court highlighted that the Governorship should not be a "sanctum for retired politicians" and emphasized the need for constitutional interpretation to align with present-day realities.
- The Supreme Court is examining the constitutional implications of Governors withholding assent to State Bills.
- The Court questioned if elected state governments are subject to the arbitrary decisions of Governors.
- The Solicitor-General argued that the Governor's power to withhold assent should be used sparingly.
The Union Home Minister introduced three new Bills in Lok Sabha, including the Constitution (One Hundred And Thirtieth Amendment) Bill, 2025, proposing the removal of Prime Ministers, Chief Ministers, and other Ministers if arrested and detained for 30 consecutive days on serious criminal charges. The President, Governors, or Lieutenant-Governors would be the removal authorities, with a provision for reappointment upon release. The Bills were referred to a Joint Committee of Parliament for review. Opposition parties strongly criticized the legislation as "unconstitutional, anti-federal," and a step towards "medieval times," accusing the government of seeking political morality while undermining democratic principles.
- Three new Bills propose the removal of elected representatives like PMs and CMs if detained for 30 consecutive days on serious criminal charges.
- The President, Governors, or Lieutenant-Governors are designated as the authorities for such removals.
- Opposition parties have condemned the Bills as unconstitutional, anti-federal, and a potential tool for political misuse.
The Union Home Ministry has stated that the Lieutenant Governor (LG) of Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) can nominate five members to the Legislative Assembly without the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers. This raises questions about democratic accountability in Union Territories (UTs). While the Constitution provides for nominated members in Parliament and State legislatures (nominated by President/Governors on ministerial advice), the procedure for UTs is governed by specific Acts of Parliament. The Madras High Court previously upheld the Union government's power to nominate members to the Puducherry Assembly without ministerial advice, a ruling later set aside by the Supreme Court on recommendations. The Supreme Court's 'triple chain of command' concept from the NCT of Delhi case, which mandates LGs to act on ministerial advice in most matters, is relevant here, advocating for democratic principles in J&K's nominations.
- The Union Home Ministry asserts that the J&K LG can nominate five assembly members without the Council of Ministers' advice.
- The Indian Constitution provides for nominated members in Parliament and State legislatures, where nominations are typically based on ministerial advice.
- For Union Territories, nominations are governed by specific Acts of Parliament, such as the Government of Union Territories Act, 1963.
The Bombay High Court rejected a bail plea, stating that documents like Aadhaar, PAN, or Voter ID are for identification only and do not confer Indian citizenship, which is governed by the Citizenship Act, 1955. Separately, the Union Home Ministry, in a Lok Sabha reply, refrained from specifying "valid documents" required to prove citizenship. It reiterated that citizenship is acquired by birth, descent, registration, naturalisation, or incorporation of territory, as per the Citizenship Act, 1955, and its rules. The Ministry also mentioned that the Act requires compulsory registration of every Indian citizen and issuance of national ID cards.
- The Bombay High Court clarified that identification documents like Aadhaar or Voter ID are not sufficient proof of Indian citizenship.
- Citizenship in India is primarily determined by the provisions of the Citizenship Act, 1955.
- The Union Home Ministry has not specified a list of "valid documents" for proving citizenship, referring instead to the Citizenship Act, 1955.
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has initiated the process to remove Justice Yashwant Varma of the Allahabad High Court by admitting a motion signed by 146 members. A three-member inquiry committee, comprising Supreme Court judge Justice Aravind Kumar, Madras High Court Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava, and senior Karnataka High Court advocate B.V. Acharya, has been constituted to probe charges against Justice Varma. The charges stem from burnt currency notes found at his official residence, leading to an in-house inquiry that indicted him. The Speaker emphasized the importance of unimpeachable character and integrity in the judiciary.
- The Lok Sabha Speaker has admitted a motion for the removal of a High Court judge, constituting an inquiry committee.
- The process is initiated under Section 3(2) of the Judges (Inquiry) Act 1968, following charges of corruption.
- The inquiry committee includes a Supreme Court judge, a High Court Chief Justice, and a senior advocate.
Bangladesh's Election Commission has announced that the final voter list for the upcoming general elections will be published in the first week of February. This announcement is a crucial step in preparing for the polls, which are expected to be highly contested. The publication of the voter list aims to ensure transparency and allow for any necessary corrections before the elections. The process is closely watched by international observers amidst political tensions in the country.
- Bangladesh Election Commission will publish the final voter list in the first week of February.
- This is a crucial step for the upcoming general elections.
- The publication aims to ensure transparency and allow for corrections.
The Election Commission (EC) clarified the process for addressing missing names on Bihar's electoral rolls, following concerns raised by political parties. The EC explained that a comprehensive revision process was undertaken, and individuals whose names were missing or incorrectly entered had multiple opportunities to apply for inclusion or correction. The process involved booth-level verification, public display of draft rolls, and specific forms for claims and objections. The EC emphasized its commitment to ensuring accurate and inclusive electoral rolls.
- The EC clarified the process for addressing missing names on Bihar's electoral rolls.
- A comprehensive revision process was undertaken with multiple opportunities for citizens.
- The process involved booth-level verification and public display of draft rolls.
NCP chief Sharad Pawar claimed that two individuals had promised him a win in the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly polls if he joined the BJP-led alliance, but he chose to ignore them. Pawar's statement comes amidst ongoing political realignments and power struggles within Maharashtra. He reiterated his commitment to the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, emphasizing his resolve to fight against the BJP. This revelation underscores the intense political maneuvering and attempts to influence party leaders ahead of crucial elections.
- NCP chief Sharad Pawar claimed two individuals promised him a win in 2024 Maharashtra polls.
- The offer was conditional on him joining the BJP-led alliance, which he ignored.
- Pawar reiterated his commitment to the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance.
The BJP criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for failing to submit written proof to the Election Commission (EC) regarding his claims of "vote theft" in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Gandhi had alleged that the BJP manipulated the electoral process, but the EC had asked him to provide specific details. The BJP accused Gandhi of making baseless allegations to discredit democratic institutions. This exchange highlights the political rhetoric surrounding electoral integrity and the need for substantiated evidence when making serious claims.
- BJP criticized Rahul Gandhi for not providing proof of "vote theft" claims to the EC.
- Gandhi had alleged BJP manipulated the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
- The Election Commission had requested specific details from Gandhi.
The Congress party has questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sudden halt of 'Operation Sindoor' in 2019, following the IAF Chief's claim of shooting down six Pakistani aircraft during the operation. Congress leaders demanded an explanation for the abrupt cessation, suggesting a potential cover-up or political motives. They also sought clarity on the number of Pakistani aircraft shot down and the reasons for the secrecy surrounding the operation. This political questioning highlights the demand for transparency in defense matters and accountability from the government.
- Congress questioned PM Modi on the sudden halt of 'Operation Sindoor' in 2019.
- The query followed the IAF Chief's claim of shooting down six Pakistani aircraft.
- Congress demanded an explanation for the abrupt cessation and alleged secrecy.
The Election Commission (EC) has reiterated that no voter's name will be deleted from the electoral rolls without proper notice and an opportunity for a hearing. This assurance comes amidst concerns raised by political parties and citizens about arbitrary deletions. The EC emphasized that the process for deletion involves specific procedures, including serving a notice to the individual and allowing them to present their case. This commitment aims to uphold the integrity of the electoral rolls and protect the voting rights of citizens.
- The Election Commission (EC) assured no voter name deletion without proper notice.
- The assurance addresses concerns about arbitrary deletions from electoral rolls.
- Deletion process involves serving notice and providing an opportunity for hearing.
The Election Commission (EC) has delisted 334 unregistered unrecognised political parties (RUPPs) for failing to comply with electoral rules and guidelines. These parties were found to be non-existent, to have not contested elections, or to have failed to submit mandatory financial reports. The delisting is part of the EC's ongoing drive to clean up the electoral system, enhance transparency, and ensure that only genuine political entities participate. This action aims to prevent misuse of electoral provisions and strengthen democratic processes.
- The Election Commission (EC) delisted 334 unregistered unrecognised political parties (RUPPs).
- Parties were delisted for non-compliance with electoral rules and guidelines.
- Reasons include non-existence, not contesting elections, or failing to submit financial reports.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to visit Assam to initiate the process of building the BJP's political narrative for the 2026 Assembly elections. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that Shah would attend various events, including a core committee meeting, to strategize for the upcoming polls. The visit aims to strengthen the party's grassroots presence, address key issues, and consolidate its support base. This strategic move highlights the BJP's early preparations for the next electoral cycle in Assam, focusing on long-term political planning.
- Union Home Minister Amit Shah will visit Assam to begin BJP's 2026 election narrative.
- CM Himanta Biswa Sarma announced Shah's visit for strategic meetings.
- The visit aims to strengthen BJP's grassroots and consolidate its support base.
The Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) held protests in Jammu and Kashmir, demanding the release of its chairman and former MLA, Engineer Rashid, who has been imprisoned since 2019 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The party argues that Rashid's continued detention is unjust and politically motivated. The protests highlight concerns about human rights, political detentions, and the use of stringent laws like UAPA in the region. AIP members called for his immediate release to allow him to participate in democratic processes.
- Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) protested for the release of its chairman, Engineer Rashid.
- Engineer Rashid, a former MLA, has been jailed since 2019 under UAPA.
- The party alleges his detention is unjust and politically motivated.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced that the Law Department would conduct an inquiry into alleged "vote fraud" involving the deletion of voters' names from the electoral rolls. The allegations suggest that names of certain communities were systematically removed, raising concerns about electoral integrity. The CM emphasized that the government is committed to ensuring fair elections and will take action against officials found responsible. This probe underscores the importance of accurate electoral rolls for democratic processes and addresses concerns about potential manipulation.
- Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah announced a Law Department inquiry into alleged "vote fraud."
- Allegations involve systematic deletion of voters' names from electoral rolls.
- The probe aims to ensure electoral integrity and accountability of officials.
The Rajasthan BJP has expelled its spokesperson, Laxmikant Bhardwaj, from the party for six years following controversial remarks he made against the party leadership. Bhardwaj had publicly criticized the party's handling of internal affairs and decision-making processes, leading to disciplinary action. This expulsion underscores the party's strict stance against dissent and internal criticism, especially ahead of crucial elections. It also highlights the challenges of maintaining party discipline amidst factionalism and leadership struggles.
- Rajasthan BJP expelled spokesperson Laxmikant Bhardwaj for six years.
- The expulsion followed controversial remarks against the party leadership.
- Bhardwaj had criticized the party's internal affairs and decision-making.
The Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) held its first general body meeting, where it passed a resolution banning its founder, S. Ramadoss, from holding any party posts. This unprecedented move comes amidst internal party restructuring and leadership changes. While Ramadoss will continue as the party's patron, the decision aims to empower new leadership and streamline the party's functioning. The meeting also discussed strategies for upcoming elections and strengthening the party's grassroots presence.
- Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) held its first general body meeting.
- A resolution was passed to ban founder S. Ramadoss from holding party posts.
- Ramadoss will continue as the party's patron.
BJP MP Nishikant Dubey has filed a breach of privilege motion against government officials for allegedly discriminating against him on religious grounds during a visit to Deoghar. Dubey claimed that officials prevented him from offering prayers at a temple, citing security concerns, while allowing others. He accused them of violating his fundamental rights and parliamentary privileges. This incident highlights concerns about religious freedom and the conduct of public officials, potentially leading to a parliamentary inquiry into the alleged discrimination.
- BJP MP Nishikant Dubey filed a breach of privilege motion against officials.
- He alleged religious discrimination during a visit to a temple in Deoghar.
- Dubey claimed officials prevented him from offering prayers while allowing others.