Daily News Analysis: December 12, 2024

Supreme Court Criticises ‘Growing Misuse’ of IPC Section 498A

The Supreme Court has expressed concern over the misuse of IPC Section 498A, which addresses cruelty against married women by their husbands and in-laws. While the provision was introduced to combat dowry-related violence and harassment, its misuse has led to false allegations in some cases. The court emphasized the need for stringent scrutiny of complaints to prevent undue harassment of innocent individuals. It also suggested preliminary investigations and accountability for false complaints to ensure a balanced legal framework.

Education in Mother Tongue

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 continues to promote education in mother tongues at the primary level. Teaching children in their native languages enhances comprehension, cognitive development, and cultural identity. Constitutional provisions like Articles 29 and 350A support this initiative. Government programs such as DIKSHA and AICTE’s local language courses further bolster this effort. This approach aligns with global practices in countries like China and the Soviet Union, where mother tongue education has historically improved learning outcomes.

Issue of Manual Scavenging in India

The Supreme Court has reiterated its commitment to eradicating manual scavenging. Despite the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers Act, 2013, challenges like social stigma and inadequate rehabilitation persist. Initiatives like the NAMASTE scheme aim to mechanize sanitation work and provide alternative livelihoods for affected workers. The court has also increased compensation for sewer deaths and directed states to implement robust policies to eliminate this practice entirely.

Bharat 6G Vision Document

India aims to lead the global race in 6G technology by 2030 through its Bharat 6G Vision Document. Promising internet speeds up to 1 terabit per second, this technology will revolutionize sectors like healthcare (telemedicine), agriculture (precision farming), and education (immersive learning). The initiative involves two phases: exploratory research until 2025 and commercialization by 2030. Challenges include R&D investments, cybersecurity concerns, and spectrum allocation.

India’s First Hyperloop Test Track

IIT Madras has completed India’s first hyperloop test track spanning 410 meters. Hyperloop technology offers ultra-high-speed transportation through vacuum-sealed tubes, reducing travel time significantly. The Mumbai-Pune corridor is set to host the first full-scale project. While promising energy efficiency and sustainability, challenges like high infrastructure costs and land acquisition remain.

India Doubles Nuclear Power Generation in the Last Decade

India has nearly doubled its nuclear power capacity from 4,780 MW in 2014 to 8,180 MW in 2024. With plans to triple this capacity by 2031-32, India is focusing on indigenous technologies like Bharat Small Modular Reactors (BSMR) and thorium-based reactors. Beyond power generation, nuclear energy supports agriculture (mutagenic crops) and healthcare (cancer treatment). However, challenges like land acquisition and regulatory clearances need addressing.

Vaikom Satyagraha: A Century of Social Reform

The year marks the centenary of the Vaikom Satyagraha (1924), a pivotal movement against caste-based discrimination in Kerala. Led by leaders like T.K. Madhavan and supported by Mahatma Gandhi and E.V. Ramasamy Periyar, the protest demanded equal access to temple roads for Dalits. The movement’s success laid the foundation for broader anti-untouchability campaigns across India.

Saydnaya Prison: A Symbol of Oppression

Thousands of political detainees have been released from Syria’s Saydnaya Prison following regime changes. Known for its inhumane conditions, the prison symbolized decades of oppression under Bashar al-Assad’s rule. Its closure marks a significant shift in Syria’s political landscape amidst ongoing reconstruction efforts.

Abetment of Suicide: Supreme Court Clarifies Law

The Supreme Court clarified that mere allegations of harassment are insufficient to invoke charges under Section 306 IPC (abetment of suicide). Convictions require clear evidence of incitement or assistance in suicide acts. This ruling emphasizes safeguarding against misuse while ensuring justice for genuine cases.

World Malaria Report: India’s Progress

The WHO’s World Malaria Report highlights India’s success in reducing malaria cases by 69% since 2017. However, India still accounts for half of all malaria cases in Southeast Asia. Innovations like genetically modified malaria parasites offer new avenues for prevention amidst rising drug resistance.

Ghost Guns: A Growing Threat

Ghost guns—untraceable firearms assembled from kits—are increasingly used in crimes globally. The U.S. government has introduced regulations requiring serial numbers on gun kits to curb their proliferation. These weapons pose significant security risks due to their accessibility via online platforms.

Shortfin Mako Shark Conservation Efforts

Researchers have tagged a young shortfin mako shark in the Mediterranean Sea for the first time. Known as one of the fastest fish globally, this critically endangered species faces threats from overfishing and habitat loss. Conservation efforts focus on sustainable fishing practices and habitat protection.This comprehensive analysis captures critical developments from December 12, showcasing progress across social reforms, technological advancements, environmental conservation, and global health initiatives.