Editorials Analysis – 01 May 2025

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  Despite constitutional guarantees and decades-old laws, millions in India remain trapped in the exploitative cycle of bonded and forced labour. As India commemorates Labour Day, stories from the ground reflect the country's continued struggle to uphold the dignity and rights of its most vulnerable workers.   Summary in Short Points: Bonded Labour in India persists despite being officially abolished in 1975. Mukesh Adivasi and K. Thenmozhi are examples of the brutal exploitation that persists through debt-traps and lack of...

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  Description This article highlights concerns raised by the Supreme Court of India regarding the unchecked use of surveillance tools like Pegasus by state agencies, emphasizing that national security must not be used as a cover for violating individual rights and suppressing democratic dissent. Summary in Short Points Supreme Court questions arbitrary surveillance and demands accountability. Pegasus spyware reportedly used against politicians, judges, journalists, etc. Government has not clarified whether it uses Pegasus or not. Surveillance must follow due process,...

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  The Government of India has approved a hike in the Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) of sugarcane for the 2025-26 season to ₹355 per quintal, ensuring better returns for farmers. Special provisions have also been made to safeguard the interests of those with lower sugar recovery rates. Summary in Short Points: FRP Increased: ₹355 per quintal for 2025-26 (up from ₹340 in 2024-25). Applicable Recovery Rate: Based on 10.25% sugar recovery. Incentive Mechanism: ₹3.46 premium/penalty per 0.1% change in...

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  In a significant judgment, the Supreme Court of India ruled that inclusive digital access, especially for e-governance and welfare schemes, is integral to the fundamental right to life and liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution. The ruling came while addressing the challenges faced by disabled persons in completing mandatory digital KYC procedures. Summary in Short Points: Supreme Court recognized digital access as part of the Right to Life and Liberty (Article 21). The judgment arose from a petition...

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  In a significant judgment, the Supreme Court of India ruled that inclusive digital access, especially for e-governance and welfare schemes, is integral to the fundamental right to life and liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution. The ruling came while addressing the challenges faced by disabled persons in completing mandatory digital KYC procedures. Summary in Short Points: Supreme Court recognized digital access as part of the Right to Life and Liberty (Article 21). The judgment arose from a petition...

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In a landmark decision, the Union Cabinet has cleared the way for the enumeration of caste in the upcoming decennial Census — the first time this will occur in Independent India. The Census, which will be conducted in digital mode for the first time, will include caste data in its second phase and is expected to significantly influence future policies, reservation structures, and parliamentary seat distribution. Summary: First caste count since 1931 to be part of the official decennial Census....