MAY 5, 2024 | DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS FOR APSC/UPSC

Criminalisation of Politics

(GS-II: Polity and Governance)



  • Why in News?
    • In the fourth phase of Lok Sabha elections, 21% of candidates (360 out of 1,710) have declared criminal cases against themselves.
  • More about the news?
    • Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani of Telugu Desam Party is the richest candidate with assets over Rs 5,700 crore.
    • Out of 1,710 candidates, 476 are "crorepatis" with assets exceeding Rs 1 crore, while 24 candidates declared zero assets.
  • Reform Proposals by ADR:
    • Permanent disqualification of candidates convicted of serious crimes.
    • Bringing political parties under the Right to Information Act.
    • Implementing stricter penalties for candidates providing false information on election affidavits.

The Assam Tribune Editorial Summary (May 5, 2024)

Elephant rehab?

(GS-III: Biodiversity, Environment)

  • Why in News?
    • The recent transportation of elephants from India's North-east to Gujarat, particularly to the Ambani-owned zoo-cum-rehabilitation center in Jamnagar, has sparked outrage among animal lovers.
  • Concerns:
    • Safety of Elephants: There are concerns about the safety of transporting elephants over long distances, as seen in the recent incident where an elephant was transported to Gujarat.
    • Habitat Displacement: The large-scale shipment of elephants from the North-east to Gujarat raises concerns about habitat displacement and the suitability of Gujarat's environment for elephants.
    • Animal Welfare: Questions arise about the welfare of the elephants being transferred, particularly considering the unsuitability of Gujarat's climate and the traumatic experience of the journey.
    • Motives Behind Transfer: Suspicions have been raised regarding the true motives behind the transfer, with accusations of laws being manipulated to accommodate certain interests, potentially including those of the Ambani group.
  • Way Forward:
    • Review of Transfer Practices: There needs to be a thorough review of the practices and regulations surrounding the transfer of elephants, ensuring that the welfare and safety of the animals are prioritized.
    • Consultation with Conservationists: Conservationists should be consulted to assess the impact of large-scale transfers on elephant populations and their habitats.
    • Establishment of Rehab Centers: Rather than transferring elephants to unsuitable environments, efforts should be made to establish rehabilitation centers closer to their natural habitats in regions like the North-east.
    • Transparency and Accountability: There should be transparency in the decision-making process regarding elephant transfers, with accountability mechanisms in place to prevent any misuse of power or manipulation of laws for personal gain.
    • Focus on Genuine Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation efforts should focus on genuinely needy cases, such as elephants suffering from injury, old age, or abusive captivity, rather than healthy specimens.
    • Awareness and Advocacy: Increased awareness and advocacy efforts are needed to highlight the importance of protecting elephant habitats and ensuring the welfare of captive elephants.

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