18th April 2025-Current Affairs

by | Apr 29, 2025 | Current Affairs

1. Strengthening Federalism: SC’s Landmark Judgment in the Tamil Nadu Governor Case – Polity

India Supreme Court 3

Why in News?

  • In State of Tamil Nadu vs. The Governor of Tamil Nadu, the Supreme Court issued a historic ruling limiting the discretionary powers of Governors.
  • The Court upheld federal values, declared that withholding assent without reason is unconstitutional, and invoked Article 142 to validate 10 pending Bills.
  • The case marks a judicial assertion against executive overreach, reaffirming India’s identity as a Union of States under cooperative federalism.

Key Features of the Judgment

Principle AffirmedExplanation
Limit on Governor’s PowersGovernor cannot indefinitely delay or block State Bills
No Absolute VetoPresident/Governor do not have a pocket or absolute veto
Article 142 InvokedSC deemed the re-passed Bills as assented to override obstruction
Critique of Malafide ConductGovernor’s delay in returning Bills was held as procedural subversion
Judicial InnovationSC ensured that the will of the elected legislature prevails

Context of the Case

  • Governor withheld assent to 10 key Bills, some pending since 2020—relating to state universities, regulation, and COVID-19 response.
  • The Tamil Nadu Assembly re-passed the Bills unchanged, prompting judicial intervention after continued gubernatorial inaction.
  • The Court treated the re-passed Bills as assented, ending the deadlock.

Constitutional Provisions Referenced

ArticleSubject
Article 200Governor’s powers over State Bills: assent, return, or reserve for President
Article 201Presidential action on Bills reserved by Governor
Article 142Supreme Court’s power to pass orders for “complete justice
Basic Structure DoctrineImplied federalism, representative democracy, and separation of powers

Significance of the Ruling

  • Federalism Upheld: Curtails central interference through gubernatorial offices.
  • Democratic Legitimacy Reinforced: Reaffirms legislative supremacy of elected state assemblies.
  • Time-Bound Governance: Governors must act within reasonable time, preventing governance paralysis.
  • Precedent for Other States: Affects states like Kerala, West Bengal, and Punjab, where similar issues have occurred.

Relevance & Implications

  • GS Paper II – Indian Constitution & Governance:
    • Excellent case for questions on Centre-State dynamics, judicial activism, and democratic accountability.
    • Useful in essay and ethics questions about constitutional morality and institutional integrity.
  • For Himachal Pradesh:
    • Reinforces the state’s autonomy in legislative matters, especially on education, land, and forest laws.
    • Helps HP assert constitutional clarity in dealings with the Governor and Union ministries.

Summary

In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court ruled that Governors cannot indefinitely withhold assent to State Bills and must act within a reasonable timeframe. Invoking Article 142, the Court validated 10 Bills re-passed by the Tamil Nadu Assembly, reinforcing legislative supremacy and cooperative federalism. The judgment curbs executive overreach, upholds constitutional morality, and sets a precedent for similar disputes in other states, reaffirming India’s federal structure and democratic integrity.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. Article 200 of the Indian Constitution deals with:
a) Distribution of revenues between Union and States
b) Role of Governor in assenting State Bills
c) Emergency powers of the President
d) Power of Parliament to legislate on State subjects
Answer: b) Role of Governor in assenting State Bills

2. Which Article empowers the Supreme Court to ensure “complete justice” in any case?
a) Article 136
b) Article 141
c) Article 142
d) Article 32
Answer: c) Article 142

Mains :

  1. “The Governor’s role must align with constitutional morality, not political convenience.” Critically examine this statement in light of the Supreme Court’s ruling in the Tamil Nadu Governor case.
    (GS Paper II – Polity / Federalism / Constitutional Roles)
  2. Discuss the significance of Article 142 in the context of judicial innovation and cooperative federalism. Illustrate with reference to recent Supreme Court rulings.
    (GS Paper II – Indian Constitution / Judicial Review)

2. History and Evolution of the Office of Governor – Polity

Why in News?

  • A recent Supreme Court judgment restricted indefinite delays in granting assent to State Bills, reasserting the Governor’s role as a constitutional authority rather than a political one.
  • This ruling has sparked renewed focus on the historical journey and constitutional role of the Governor’s office in India’s federal setup.

Timeline: Evolution of the Governor’s Office

Period/EventSignificance
1858 – Government of India ActFormally created the Governor’s post as a powerful agent of the British Crown
1919 – Montagu-Chelmsford ReformsIntroduced diarchy; gave veto powers to Governors in provincial matters
1935 – Govt. of India ActGranted provincial autonomy but retained significant discretionary powers for Governors
1947 – Provisional Constitution OrderLimited discretionary powers to align with democratic governance
1949 – Constituent AssemblyAmbedkar and others argued for a nominated Governor to uphold national unity

Constitutional Framework Post-1947

ArticleProvision & Implication
Article 153One Governor for each state (can be the same for two or more states)
Article 154Executive power of the State vests in the Governor
Article 163Governor to act on aid and advice of Council of Ministers (except in discretionary matters)
Article 200Options on State Bills: Assent, Withhold, Return, Reserve for President
Article 201Role of the President when a Bill is reserved

Key Views from Constituent Assembly

DebaterOpinion
Dr. B.R. AmbedkarFavored a nominal and non-political role for the Governor. Discretion should be “rare and minimal.”
K.T. Shah & othersPitched for elected Governors, but this was rejected to ensure national cohesion post-Partition

Supreme Court’s Recent Interpretation (2025)

  • Clarified that Governors cannot delay Bills indefinitely.
  • Withholding or reserving Bills must be done with recorded reasons.
  • No absolute veto or “pocket veto” allowed.
  • Use of Article 142 to protect the legislative will of elected governments.

Symbolic vs. Political Role

Symbolic (Ideal) RoleConcerns Raised in Practice
Represents the Union in the StateAlleged bias toward central ruling parties
Upholds democratic functioningAccused of delaying assent or interfering in university appointments
Constitutional guardianOften seen as undermining state autonomy in opposition-ruled states

Relevance & Implications

  • GS Paper II – Indian Constitution & Governance:
    • Excellent for discussing Centre-State dynamics, role of constitutional offices, and separation of powers.
    • Relevant to ethics/essay topics on constitutional morality and neutrality in public office.
  • For Himachal Pradesh:
    • While HP has not faced intense Governor-CM conflicts, understanding this evolution is key for managing legislative-executive relations, especially during crises (e.g., disasters, President’s Rule).

Summary

The Governor’s office, rooted in colonial administration, has evolved into a constitutional post meant to uphold democratic values and state autonomy. While the Constitution mandates Governors to act on the advice of the Council of Ministers, recent controversies—like delays in assenting to State Bills—have revived debates about misuse of discretionary powers. The Supreme Court’s 2025 judgment reaffirmed the Governor’s symbolic, non-political role and emphasized accountability, curbing central overreach and strengthening federalism.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. Under the Indian Constitution, the Governor is expected to act: a) Independently in all matters
b) As the head of the judiciary
c) On the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers
d) As the representative of the Parliament
Answer: c) On the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers

2. The Governor’s power to reserve a Bill for the President’s consideration is provided under:
a) Article 163
b) Article 154
c) Article 200
d) Article 256
Answer: c) Article 200

Mains :

  1. “The role of Governor in India has evolved from a colonial administrator to a constitutional functionary.” Critically examine this transformation in light of recent judicial pronouncements.
    (GS Paper II – Polity / Federalism)
  2. “The office of the Governor must act as a bridge between the Union and State, not as a barrier.” Discuss with reference to the Constituent Assembly debates and the Supreme Court’s April 2025 judgment.
    (GS Paper II – Centre-State Relations / Constitutional Roles)

3. Supreme Court Flags Key Issues in Waqf Law (Waqf Amendment Act, 2025) – Polity

Why in News?

  • The Supreme Court of India is reviewing the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, which has triggered legal and social concerns due to its implications for property rights, religious governance, and constitutional protection for minorities.
  • Over a dozen petitions challenge the constitutional validity of key provisions of the Act, particularly regarding waqf property recognition, governance structures, and state interference.

Key Provisions Under Challenge

ProvisionConcern Raised
Denotification of Waqf-by-userEnds recognition of properties used for religious/charitable use without formal registration; may impact ~4 lakh properties
Inclusion of Non-Muslims in Waqf BodiesCritics argue this undermines religious autonomy and faith-based governance
Collector’s Role in Property StatusAdministrative authority over waqf land status risks conflict of interest and due process violations

Supreme Court’s Interim Approach (April 2025)

  • Chief Justice proposed a three-point order:
    1. Maintain current waqf status of properties under legal use.
    2. Pause fresh reclassification until constitutional questions are settled.
    3. Expedite hearings due to large-scale social and legal implications.

Constitutional & Legal Context

Article / PrincipleRelevance
Article 25-28Freedom of religion and management of religious affairs
Article 29-30Protection of minority interests and institutions
Doctrine of Religious AutonomyReligious institutions have internal rights unless expressly limited by law
Judicial ReviewCourt may invalidate laws that violate fundamental rights or basic structure

Arguments by Petitioners vs Government

Petitioners’ ViewGovernment’s Stand
Violates minority rights under Articles 26 and 30Law aligns with historical waqf laws and ensures transparent regulation
Denotification could erase religious legacyNon-registered land leads to legal disputes and misappropriation
Allowing non-Muslim members is religious interferenceBroader inclusion fosters secular governance and accountability

Relevance & Implications

  • GS Paper II – Polity & Minority Rights:
    • Important for understanding judicial oversight on religious legislation, especially under India’s pluralist Constitution.
    • Useful for debates on state vs religious institutional autonomy.
  • For Himachal Pradesh:
    • While waqf land disputes are less prominent, similar issues arise in temple trusts, forest-encroached religious lands, and governance of religious institutions.
    • Teaches importance of legal clarity and community involvement in land governance.

Summary

The Supreme Court is reviewing the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, amid concerns that it infringes on minority rights and religious autonomy. Key challenges include denotifying waqf-by-user properties, inclusion of non-Muslims in waqf bodies, and administrative control over property status. Petitioners argue this violates Articles 26 and 30, while the government defends it as a transparency measure. The Court has paused reclassification efforts and underscored the need to balance governance with constitutional freedoms.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. The term “waqf” in Islamic law refers to:
a) Temporary land lease
b) Religious endowment for public or charitable use
c) Government ownership of private land
d) Customary tribal land practices
Answer: b) Religious endowment for public or charitable use

2. Under which Article does the Constitution guarantee religious denominations the right to manage their own affairs?
a) Article 19
b) Article 21
c) Article 26
d) Article 39
Answer: c) Article 26

Mains :

  1. “Laws affecting religious institutions must balance administrative regulation with constitutional rights.” Critically analyze the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 in light of the Supreme Court’s recent scrutiny.
    (GS Paper II – Governance / Minority Rights)
  2. Discuss the constitutional safeguards available to religious institutions in India. How do recent legislative trends impact the autonomy of these bodies?
    (GS Paper II – Indian Constitution / Secularism)

4. Call for Permanent Settlement for Tribals – Governance

Why in News?

  • The displacement of ~50,000 Gond tribals from Chhattisgarh to Andhra Pradesh during anti-Maoist operations in 2005 continues to remain unresolved.
  • These communities, particularly Gutti Koyas, face legal statelessness, bureaucratic neglect, and identity denial, despite being co-opted into state counter-insurgency operations.
  • The issue underscores the need for a permanent settlement policy and legal recognition of displaced tribal populations.

Background and Context

AspectDetails
Historical DisplacementTribals were moved during Salwa Judum-led counter-insurgency operations in Chhattisgarh (2005)
Current StatusResiding in forest areas in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana without legal land titles
Security RoleDisplaced tribals often aid security forces, but receive no rehabilitation or recognition
Host State ResponseTribals labeled as migrants, not Scheduled Tribes, denying them welfare benefits

Challenges Faced by Displaced Tribals

Area of ConcernExplanation
Legal Identity CrisisLack of domicile papers → ineligible for ration cards, Aadhar, tribal welfare
No Forest RightsDespite Forest Rights Act (2006), most tribals lack legal titles or community rights
ExploitationVulnerable to land grabbing, bonded labor, and illegal evictions
Health & Education DeficitMarginalized in social schemes, school enrollment, and healthcare access

Legal and Policy Frameworks (Underutilized)

Legislation / SchemeIntended Purpose
Forest Rights Act (2006)Recognizes land and forest usage rights of traditional forest dwellers
PESA Act (1996)Empowers Gram Sabhas in Scheduled Areas to manage local resources
Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) ActProvides legal backing for habitat rights, resettlement, and protection from eviction
R&R Policy Guidelines (2013)Offers compensation and relocation support for displaced persons

Issues in Implementation

  • FRA implementation is slow and poorly monitored — thousands of applications remain pending.
  • Host states (like Telangana) deny Scheduled Tribe status to displaced tribals not on their ST list.
  • Administrative disconnect between Chhattisgarh (source state) and host states prevents coordinated rehabilitation.
  • Lack of political will and clarity in defining inter-state displaced tribals leads to policy paralysis.

Relevance & Implications

  • GS Paper II – Vulnerable Groups / Governance Failures:
    • A strong case study for questions on tribal displacement, inter-state governance, and failure of welfare delivery.
    • Useful for ethics and essay writing around state accountability and human dignity.
  • For Himachal Pradesh:
    • HP is home to Gaddis, Gujjars, Lahaulis, and other nomadic tribes.
    • Lessons from this issue help HP frame inclusive resettlement policies for migratory and disaster-displaced tribal populations.

Summary

Nearly 50,000 Gond tribals displaced during anti-Maoist operations in 2005 remain undocumented and marginalized in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Denied legal identity, forest rights, and welfare access, they face exploitation and exclusion despite contributing to security efforts. Weak coordination between states and poor implementation of the Forest Rights Act and PESA have deepened their vulnerability. The situation highlights the urgent need for a national policy on inter-state tribal displacement and permanent settlement.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. The Forest Rights Act, 2006 recognizes which of the following rights for forest-dwelling communities?

  1. Right to hold and live in forest land
  2. Community rights over minor forest produce
  3. Right to intellectual property and traditional knowledge
    Select the correct option:
    a) 1 and 2 only
    b) 2 and 3 only
    c) 1 and 3 only
    d) 1, 2 and 3
    Answer: d) 1, 2 and 3

2. Which of the following acts empowers local governance in tribal areas under the Fifth Schedule?
a) FRA Act, 2006
b) SC/ST Atrocities Act, 1989
c) PESA Act, 1996
d) Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
Answer: c) PESA Act, 1996

Mains :

  1. “Displacement due to state security operations creates long-term vulnerabilities among tribal communities.” Discuss with reference to the plight of the displaced Gond tribals.
    (GS Paper II – Governance / Vulnerable Sections)
  2. Evaluate the role of the Forest Rights Act and other welfare mechanisms in addressing the rehabilitation needs of inter-state displaced tribal communities.
    (GS Paper II – Welfare Schemes / Rights of Minorities and Tribes)

5. India’s First-Ever Seed Germination Database – Science & Technology

Why in News?

  • The Ecological Restoration Alliance of India (ERA-I) launched the country’s first seed germination database, a milestone tool for restoring native plant species across India.
  • The database supports India’s environmental restoration goals, including commitments under the Bonn Challenge to restore 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030.

Key Features of the Database

FeatureDescription
Species Covered465 native plant species across India
Techniques IncludedOver 1,000 seed germination methods based on habitat and ecological traits
AccessFree, public online access for restoration ecologists and nursery managers
UsersTargeted at restoration practitioners, researchers, and native seed growers

Examples of Native Species in the Database

Scientific NameCommon Use / Ecological Role
Aegle marmelosMedicinal & sacred plant (Bael tree)
Withania somniferaAshwagandha – key medicinal herb
Ficus benghalensisBanyan – keystone species for ecological food webs
Vachellia niloticaBabool – nitrogen-fixing and drought-tolerant
Lawsonia inermisHenna – cultural and ecological value
Madhuca longifoliaMahua – vital for tribal economies and pollinators

Relevance to Climate-Resilient Agriculture and Ecosystem Restoration

  • Native plants enhance biodiversity, improve soil health, and stabilize ecosystems.
  • Seed databases improve reforestation success rates and help develop climate-adapted vegetation zones.
  • Important tool for agroforestry, urban greening, and ecological corridors in states like Himachal Pradesh.

India’s Broader Commitments and Context

Commitment / Policy AreaConnection to Seed Database
Bonn ChallengeAims to restore 26 million hectares by 2030
National Mission for Green IndiaNative species crucial for afforestation targets
No National Seeds PolicyStill pending; affects coordination in seed development and use
Seed Replacement Rate (SRR)Low SRR in cereals and pulses hampers agricultural productivity
Private Sector GapsLack of private investment in quality horticulture seeds

Summary

Launched by the Ecological Restoration Alliance of India, the country’s first seed germination database covers 465 native species and over 1,000 germination techniques. Aimed at restoring degraded ecosystems and supporting biodiversity, it aligns with India’s Bonn Challenge commitment to restore 26 million hectares by 2030. The tool boosts climate-resilient afforestation, supports sustainable agriculture, and helps bridge gaps in seed policy and restoration science.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. In the context of enhancing food and nutritional security in India, which of the following are constraints in improving the Seed Replacement Rate (SRR)?

  1. There is currently no National Seeds Policy in place.
  2. Lack of participation from private sector seed companies in supplying quality seeds.
  3. A significant demand-supply gap in seeds for low-value, high-volume crops.

Select the correct answer using the code below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Correct Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3

Mains :

  1. “Seed sovereignty and ecological restoration are critical for India’s sustainable future.” Evaluate the significance of India’s first seed germination database in the context of biodiversity conservation and the Bonn Challenge.
    (GS Paper III – Environment / Biodiversity)
  2. Discuss the challenges in achieving high Seed Replacement Rates in India and how scientific tools like germination databases can bridge existing gaps in agricultural sustainability.
    (GS Paper III – Agriculture / Science and Technology)

Relevance & Local Application

  • Himachal Pradesh can:
    • Use this database to revive native Himalayan species under afforestation schemes.
    • Support nurseries and eco-restoration projects in degraded forest and pasture lands.
    • Align with sustainable tourism and conservation goals in eco-sensitive zones like Great Himalayan National Park.

6. Silkyara Bend–Barkot Tunnel: Enhancing Himalayan Connectivity – Infrastructure

image 13

Why in News?

  • The breakthrough of the Silkyara Bend–Barkot Tunnel was officially announced, marking a major infrastructure milestone in Uttarakhand.
  • The tunnel is set to cut travel time by 1 hour, significantly improving access to Yamunotri, one of the sacred Chardham pilgrimage sites.
  • It plays a vital role in the Chardham Road Connectivity Project, enhancing all-weather connectivity to holy shrines.

Project Features at a Glance

FeatureDetails
Length4.531 km long two-lane bi-directional tunnel
LocationOn NH-134 (formerly NH-94), between Silkyara and Barkot
Escape PassageIncluded for emergency evacuation and safety
Tunnel Excavation90% in phyllite rock (geotechnically weak), requiring advanced tech
Construction TechniqueNew Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM) – dynamic design based on real-time geological feedback
ModeBuilt under Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract
FundingUnder National Highway (Original) [NH(O)] Scheme by MoRTH

Strategic and Religious Significance

  • Part of the Chardham Mahamarg Vikas Pariyojana, the tunnel ensures faster, safer, and weather-resilient access to:
    • Yamunotri (closest)
    • Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath (indirect benefit through interconnectivity)
  • Enhances regional tourism, supports military logistics, and disaster response capabilities in a landslide-prone Himalayan zone.

Technical Innovation: NATM Method

NATM (New Austrian Tunnelling Method)Description
PrincipleUses geological stress redistribution to stabilize the tunnel
TechniqueCombines rock bolting, shotcreting, and steel ribs to adapt to weak rock like phyllite
BenefitsFlexible, cost-effective, and suitable for unpredictable mountain geology

Relevance & Local Application

  • GS Paper III – Infrastructure & Disaster Preparedness:
    • Important for understanding infrastructure development in ecologically sensitive zones.
    • Can be applied to HP’s own tunnels (e.g., Atal Tunnel) in high-altitude and landslide-prone regions.
  • For Himachal Pradesh:
    • The tunnel serves as a model for infrastructure integration with disaster resilience in Himalayan terrain.
    • Enhances ideas for Chardham-like connectivity to pilgrimage circuits in HP such as Jwala Ji, Chintpurni, and Manimahesh.

Summary

The Silkyara Bend–Barkot Tunnel, part of the Chardham Road Connectivity Project, is a 4.5 km all-weather tunnel improving access to Yamunotri and boosting regional tourism and disaster resilience. Constructed using the New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM), it adapts to weak mountain geology like phyllite. The project reflects a critical balance between religious connectivity, strategic mobility, and sustainable infrastructure in the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.

Exam Connect – Possible Questions

Prelims :

1. The Silkyara Bend–Barkot Tunnel is a part of which national infrastructure initiative?
a) Bharatmala Project
b) National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP)
c) Chardham Mahamarg Vikas Pariyojana
d) Sagarmala Project
Answer: c) Chardham Mahamarg Vikas Pariyojana

2. What is the New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM) used in tunnel construction?
a) Prefabricated tunnel lining method
b) Use of concrete segments before excavation
c) Real-time adaptive support based on geological conditions
d) Boring with pressurized slurry shields
Answer: c) Real-time adaptive support based on geological conditions

Mains :

  1. “Tunnel projects in the Himalayas must balance infrastructure development with environmental sustainability.” Discuss in the context of the Silkyara Bend–Barkot Tunnel and similar projects in India.
    (GS Paper III – Infrastructure / Disaster Management)
  2. Examine the significance of the Chardham Road Connectivity Project in promoting regional development and religious tourism. What challenges does such infrastructure face in ecologically sensitive areas?
    (GS Paper III – Environment / Infrastructure / Tourism)