Must Read News Articles I 22nd January 2020

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The right to protest in a free society

The article highlights the various public protests occurring in India. It states that public protests are the hallmark of a free, democratic society. An unreasonable limitation on protest is an affront to the very people in whose name a government is allowed to temporarily govern. In a democracy, people participate politically not only but during elections.

Return of Bonds

The article argues that Supreme Court must give an expeditious decision on the validity of electoral bonds.

Time to resolve ‘pending issues’ with India: Oli

Nepal PM has said that bilateral dispute with India should be dealt with dialogue by both government. It indicates Kathmandu’s willingness to resolve row over the Kalapani issue with the New Delhi

SC for curbs on powers of Speaker to disqualify

The SC has asked parliament to amend the constitution to strip legislative Assembly Speakers of their exclusive powers to decide whether legislators should be disqualified under the anti defection law. The SC said that an independent tribunal should be appointed to determine the cases of anti defection of MPs/MLA.

India – Brazil to sign Strategic Action Plan

Brazilian President is set to visit India as Chief Guest of Republic day celebrations. Further, India and Brazil will upgrade their strategic partnership with an ‘action plan’ and sign a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT).

Federalism is a two way street

The article highlight that States like Kerala that oppose CAA must recognize the Centre’s constitutional right to make laws pertaining to citizenship.

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‘It is unclear how coronavirus is transmitted’

Dr. Roderico Ofrin, Regional emergency Director, WHO South East Asia Region, has said much remains to be understood about the Coronavirus. He said that not enough is known to draw definitive conclusions about how the virus is transmitted, the clinical features of the disease, its severity, the extent to which it has spread or its source.

Govt seeks specific inputs from states, ministries on new Industries policy

Govt aims to finalise a new Industrial policy within the current financial year. In the process, DPIIT is seeking specific inputs from ministries and states on focus areas to boost manufacturing and private investment.