1st March 2025-Current Affairs

1. Supreme Court Stays Lokpal Order on Corruption Complaint Against High Court Judge – Polity

Why in News?

• The Supreme Court (SC) has halted the Lokpal’s proceedings on a corruption complaint against an unnamed High Court (HC) judge.
• The Lokpal bench, led by former SC judge A.M. Khanwilkar, claimed jurisdiction over the case under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013.
• The SC expressed concerns about executive overreach and the need to uphold judicial independence.
• The matter will be further discussed in a hearing scheduled for March 18.

Key Issues and Legal Concerns

1. Judicial Independence

• The SC has historically protected the judiciary from external influences, including political and executive pressures.
• Judicial independence ensures that judges can make impartial decisions without fear of interference.
• Allowing an executive body like Lokpal to investigate judges could undermine the judiciary’s autonomy.

2. Executive Overreach Concerns

• The Lokpal is a statutory executive body meant to investigate corruption cases against public servants.
• If the executive-controlled Lokpal starts investigating judges, it may disrupt the separation of powers between the executive and judiciary.

3. Legal Framework Governing Judicial Accountability

Case-Specific Details

• Allegations Against the HC Judge
  • Two corruption complaints were filed against a HC judge for allegedly influencing judicial proceedings in favor of a private company (a former client).
  • The Lokpal did not rule on the case’s merits but asserted its authority over HC judges.
  • However, due to jurisdictional uncertainty, the Lokpal referred the case to the Chief Justice of India (CJI) for guidance.
• Supreme Court’s Intervention
  • The SC paused Lokpal’s proceedings to prevent potential judicial overreach by the executive.
  • The final ruling will clarify the accountability mechanisms applicable to higher judiciary officials in India.

Potential Implications of the Supreme Court’s Ruling

• Judicial Independence Strengthened – If the SC rules against Lokpal’s jurisdiction, it will reaffirm that judges cannot be investigated by executive bodies.
• Clearer Judicial Accountability Mechanism – The case may clarify the role of Lokpal in handling corruption allegations against judges.
• Separation of Powers Maintained – The ruling will determine how far the executive can interfere in judicial matters.
• Impact on Future Corruption Cases – If Lokpal is barred from investigating judges, other mechanisms like the impeachment process or Presidential sanction will remain the only routes for accountability.

Exam-Relevant Takeaways

• Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 – Understand its scope and limitations.
• Judicial Independence vs. Executive Overreach – Key constitutional principle in governance.
• K. Veeraswami Case (1991) – Landmark ruling on corruption investigation against judges.
• Separation of Powers – Fundamental concept of Indian democracy.
• Potential Reforms – The case may lead to amendments in the Lokpal Act to either include or exclude judges explicitly.

2. Why India-EU Partnership Matters – International Relations

Why in News?

• A high-level delegation from the European Commission, led by President Ursula von der Leyen, visited New Delhi for a two-day engagement.
• This visit is part of India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) meetings and focuses on trade, technology, green energy, and defense.
• The visit coincides with the resumption of India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations after a 15-year gap.

Key Areas of Cooperation

1. Trade and Investments

• The EU is India’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade in goods reaching $135 billion in FY 2023-24.
• The FTA negotiations aim to:
  • Reduce tariffs and trade barriers.
  • Enhance investment flows.
  • Strengthen intellectual property rights (IPR) protection.
• The agreement will boost economic ties and open new markets for both sides.

2. Technology and Digital Cooperation

• Collaboration includes:
  • Semiconductor R&D (critical for India’s self-reliance in chip manufacturing).
  • High-performance computing and AI.
  • Digital regulations and data privacy frameworks.

3. Green Energy Partnership

• India and the EU are working together to achieve net-zero emissions by:
  • Investing in green hydrogen technology.
  • Expanding renewable energy projects (solar, wind).
  • Promoting sustainable development and environmental policies.

4. Defence and Space Collaboration

• Joint naval exercises enhance maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Cooperation in space missions, including satellite launches and research.
• Strategic defense cooperation to counter global security threats.

5. People-to-People Ties

• The Indian diaspora in the EU plays a key role in cultural exchange and economic ties.
• Erasmus scholarships enable thousands of Indian students to study in Europe, strengthening educational and cultural bonds.

Historical Context: India-EU Relations

Significance of the Visit and Future Prospects

• Strengthening Strategic Partnership –
  • The visit reinforces economic, technological, and defense cooperation.
• Geopolitical Importance –
  • The India-EU partnership is crucial amid changing global dynamics, including China’s rise and Russia-Ukraine tensions.
  • Both aim to promote a rules-based international order.
• Boosting Economic Growth –
  • The FTA and trade initiatives will enhance job creation, market access, and investment opportunities for both sides.
• Leading Global Sustainability Efforts –
  • Collaboration in renewable energy and climate action will support India’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.

Exam-Relevant Takeaways

• India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) – Key platform for trade, digital, and tech cooperation.
• FTA Negotiations – Aim to boost trade, reduce tariffs, and enhance investment.
• Green Hydrogen & Renewable Energy – Major area of collaboration for achieving climate goals.
• Defence & Indo-Pacific Strategy – Joint naval exercises highlight strategic alignment.
• People-to-People Relations – Indian diaspora and educational exchanges (Erasmus scholarships) strengthen ties.

Conclusion

The India-EU partnership is evolving into a strong economic and strategic alliance, focusing on:

• Trade and investment growth
• Technological and digital advancements
• Renewable energy leadership
• Defense and maritime security

As global power dynamics shift, India and the EU are working together to build a resilient, sustainable, and secure future.

3. Counting Matters: On Delimitation, Federalism, and the Census – Polity

Why in News?

• Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin has convened an all-party meeting on March 5 to discuss delimitation and its impact on political representation.
• Tamil Nadu fears a loss of Lok Sabha seats due to lower population growth compared to northern states.
• The issue has national significance, as it affects federalism, political balance, and resource distribution.

Understanding Delimitation

• Delimitation refers to the redrawing of parliamentary and assembly constituencies based on population changes.
• It aims to ensure fair representation in Parliament and state assemblies.
• The next delimitation is expected after 2026, based on the 2021 Census (which was delayed).

Key Issue: Tamil Nadu’s Concern

• Lower Population Growth → Fewer Seats?
  • Tamil Nadu’s electorate grew by 171% (1971-2024), while undivided Bihar’s electorate grew by 233%.
  • States like UP and Bihar with higher population growth may gain Lok Sabha seats, while Tamil Nadu and Kerala could lose seats.
• Penalty for Population Control Success
  • States with lower fertility rates (TN, Kerala) may lose representation, while high-fertility states (UP, Bihar) may gain.
  • This disincentivizes effective population control policies, creating a governance paradox.

Potential Impacts of Delimitation

1. Shift in Political Power Dynamics

• Northern states (UP, Bihar, MP) could gain more seats, shifting political influence away from southern and western states.
• Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh may lose relative power in Parliament.

2. Federal Imbalance and Regional Inequality

• States like Kerala and Tamil Nadu have higher GDP, literacy, and HDI, but may be underrepresented.
• This could create discontent among states that contribute more to national development.

3. Resource Allocation Disparities

• More seats for northern states = greater say in Union Budget allocations.
• Southern states with fewer MPs may receive less funding despite higher tax contributions.

4. Political Tensions and Regional Discontent

• Southern states may demand federal reforms if they perceive unfair treatment.
• Could lead to political agitation for greater fiscal and legislative autonomy.

Why Was Delimitation Frozen?

Reasons for the Freeze:

• To protect states that controlled population growth from losing representation.
• To maintain balance in federal governance and prevent the dominance of high-population states.
• To ensure geographical representation in Parliament.

Union Government’s Approach

1. Delimitation Freeze Extension

• Ensures no immediate redistribution of seats until 2026.

2. Equitable Resource Allocation

• The 15th Finance Commission (2021-26) used:
  • 2011 Census data for fairness.
  • Demographic performance indicators to reward well-performing states.

3. Consultative Approach

• Inter-state council meetings to address concerns.
• Finance Commission consultations for fair tax distribution.

Exam-Relevant Takeaways

• Delimitation Process – Redrawing of constituencies based on population.
• 42nd & 84th Amendments – Froze seat allocation to prevent penalizing states with lower population growth.
• Tamil Nadu’s Concern – Fear of losing seats despite economic and social progress.
• Impact on Federalism – Potential shift in political power towards northern states.
• Finance Commission’s Role – Balances population-based resource allocation with demographic performance rewards.

Conclusion

• Delimitation is a contentious issue impacting political representation, federalism, and resource distribution.
• Tamil Nadu and other southern states fear losing seats and influence despite successful governance models.
• A balanced approach is needed to ensure fair representation without discouraging population control efforts.
• The next delimitation (post-2026) will be crucial in shaping India’s political landscape.

4. Hague Service Convention – International Relations

Why in News?

• The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has sought assistance from India’s Union Law Ministry to serve summons on Gautam Adani and his associates.
• The request is made under the Hague Service Convention (1965), which governs international service of legal documents.
• India’s Union Law Ministry acts as the central authority for executing such requests.

What is the Hague Service Convention?

• Adopted in 1965, it is a multilateral treaty that standardizes the process of serving legal documents across international borders.
• Ensures that defendants in foreign jurisdictions receive timely and proper notice of legal actions.
• Signed by 84 countries, including India and the U.S..

Key Objectives:

• Facilitates cross-border legal procedures by ensuring that individuals and companies cannot evade legal proceedings due to international boundaries.
• Establishes a central authority in each member country to handle service requests.
• Provides proof of service, ensuring fair trial rights for defendants.

How Does the Convention Work?

1. Modes of Service

• Central Authority Method (Primary Mode) – Requests are sent to the designated central authority of the recipient country.
• Other Methods (Varies by Country):
  • Postal Service (if the receiving country permits).
  • Diplomatic/Consular Channels.
  • Direct Judicial Communication (between courts of different countries).

Service of Foreign Legal Documents in India

• India acceded to the Hague Service Convention on November 23, 2006.
• India has reservations against Article 10, which allows alternative service methods (such as postal service and direct judicial communication).
• Key conditions for service in India:
  • All requests must be in English or accompanied by an English translation.
  • India’s Ministry of Law and Justice is the sole authority responsible for executing service requests.
  • Requests can be rejected if they violate India’s sovereignty, security, or public policy.
• Legal Status in India
  • Once the central authority processes a request, the summons is treated as an Indian court order under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908.
  • Processing Time: 6-8 months.
  • Default Judgment (Article 15): If a foreign government fails to serve a summons, the court may issue a default judgment against the defendant under specific conditions.

Significance of the Hague Service Convention

• Promotes Judicial Cooperation – Ensures fair legal proceedings in cross-border disputes.
• Prevents Legal Evasion – Defendants cannot escape lawsuits by relocating to another country.
• Strengthens International Trade & Business – Protects investors and corporations from fraudulent activities.
• Upholds Sovereignty – Countries can regulate how foreign legal documents are served within their jurisdiction.

Exam-Relevant Takeaways

• Hague Service Convention (1965) – Multilateral treaty ensuring proper legal notice in international cases.
• India’s Accession (2006) – Central authority: Union Law Ministry, reservations on Article 10.
• Processing Time: 6-8 months – Requests must be in English and comply with Indian laws.
• Article 15 – Default Judgment – Courts can issue judgments if service is not completed by a foreign authority.
• Recent Relevance: SEC Summons to Gautam Adani – Highlights the practical use of the treaty in corporate and financial investigations.

Conclusion

The Hague Service Convention is crucial for cross-border legal cooperation, ensuring fair trials and accountability in international disputes. While India follows a strict process, its participation enhances global legal coordination.

5. Lunar Trailblazer Spacecraft – Science and Technology

Why in News?

• NASA’s Lunar Trailblazer spacecraft was successfully launched by a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral.
• The mission is designed to locate and map water on the Moon.
• The spacecraft will orbit the Moon at an altitude of 100 km, conducting multiple flybys and looping orbits over several months.

Key Details About the Mission

1. Mission Overview

• Developed by: Lockheed Martin (Space Division)
• Size & Weight: About 200 kg (size of a dishwasher)
• Primary Goal: Enhance understanding of lunar water – its form, distribution, and abundance
• Significance: Crucial for future lunar missions (e.g., Artemis Program)

2. Scientific Objectives

• Identify Water on the Moon – Study ice deposits and hydrated minerals on the lunar surface.
• Map Lunar Water Cycle – Investigate how water behaves under changing lunar conditions.
• Analyze Surface Composition & Temperature – Provides data for future lunar exploration missions and potential human settlements.

3. Instruments on Board

• High-resolution Volatiles and Minerals Moon Mapper (HVM3)
  • Detects light patterns emitted by water molecules on the Moon.
  • Helps distinguish between ice, bound water, and hydroxyl compounds.
• Lunar Thermal Mapper (LTM)
  • Measures surface temperature variations.
  • Helps analyze how water is stored and transported on the Moon.
• How They Work Together?
  • HVM3 detects water signatures.
  • LTM records temperature changes affecting water distribution.

4. Importance of the Mission

• Future Lunar Colonization – Understanding water availability is key to setting up sustainable lunar habitats.
• Support for Artemis Program – Data will assist in planning human missions to the Moon.
• Advancing Lunar Science – Provides insights into the Moon’s geological and climate history.
• Interplanetary Resource Utilization – Water on the Moon could be used for fuel production (hydrogen & oxygen), supporting deep-space missions.

Exam-Relevant Takeaways

• Lunar Trailblazer – NASA’s mission to map water on the Moon.
• Instruments: HVM3 (detects water), LTM (measures temperature).
• Orbiting the Moon at 100 km altitude to study lunar water cycle.
• Supports NASA’s Artemis Program and future lunar exploration.
• Lockheed Martin developed the spacecraft.

Conclusion

The Lunar Trailblazer mission is a major step toward understanding water on the Moon, with implications for future human missions, space resource utilization, and planetary science. The data it provides will be crucial for deep-space exploration and sustaining human presence on the Moon.