In a significant move, the National Commission for Scheduled Castes has responded to the Punjab authorities regarding serious allegations of caste-based discrimination being recorded in an official Census document. The Commission plans to delve into this issue under Article 338 of the Constitution and has requested a detailed action report within a strict 15-day timeline.
Prime Minister Modi warned that ongoing global conflicts and instability risk undoing decades of development and plunging populations into poverty. Addressing the Indian diaspora in The Hague, he emphasized the critical need for resilient and trusted global supply chains, highlighting India's cooperation with the Netherlands in this area. He also celebrated the diaspora's cultural preservation and India's recent economic transformation.
The Supreme Court questioned the current selection process for Election Commissioners. It raised concerns about a cabinet minister being part of the panel. The court noted this could lead to a 2:1 majority favoring the Prime Minister. It suggested an independent process is crucial for upholding democracy and public confidence in the Election Commission's impartiality.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar criticized "unilateral coercive measures" and sanctions, stating they disproportionately harm developing nations and cannot replace diplomacy. He also voiced concern over the West Asia crisis, emphasizing the need for uninterrupted maritime traffic and a sustained ceasefire in Gaza, advocating for a two-state solution.
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