Section 124A in The Indian Penal Code
Section 124A in the Indian Penal Code (IPC) is a provision that deals with the offense of sedition. It states that whoever, by words, either spoken or written, or by signs or visible representation, brings or attempts to bring into hatred or contempt, or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards the government established by law in India, shall be punished with imprisonment for life, to which fine may be added, or with imprisonment which may extend to three years, to which fine may be added, or with fine.
The interpretation of sedition and the application of Section 124A has evolved through judicial pronouncements over the years. The courts have laid down certain essential elements that need to be established to constitute the offense of sedition. These include the act of bringing or attempting to bring into hatred or contempt, or exciting or attempting to excite disaffection towards the government, and the intention or tendency to cause public disorder or disturb public peace.
Critics argue that Section 124A is a draconian provision that curtails freedom of speech and expression, an essential democratic right. They claim that its vague and subjective language allows for misuse by the authorities to stifle dissent and suppress legitimate criticism of the government. Instances have been reported where Section 124A has been used against activists, journalists, and individuals expressing their views, raising concerns about the misuse of the law.
India – UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)
The India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) is a bilateral trade and investment agreement between India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It aims to enhance economic cooperation, expand trade and investment opportunities, and promote deeper engagement between the two countries.
The agreement focuses on promoting bilateral trade by reducing or eliminating tariffs and non-tariff barriers on a wide range of goods. It provides for the elimination of customs duties on many products, which facilitates greater access to each other's markets and boosts trade volume. Additionally, the CEPA encourages cooperation in areas such as customs procedures, technical regulations, and standards to further enhance trade facilitation.
In the services sector, the CEPA aims to promote the movement of professionals, enhance cooperation in sectors such as information technology, healthcare, and education, and facilitate the exchange of expertise and knowledge. It encourages investments in various sectors by providing a transparent and predictable framework for investors, protecting their rights, and promoting investment flows between the two countries.
Article 142 : SC rules it can directly grant divorce to couples
Article 142 of the Constitution of India empowers the Supreme Court to exercise its discretionary powers to pass any order necessary for doing complete justice in any case or matter pending before it. It provides the Supreme Court with the authority to pass orders or judgments that may not fall within the scope of existing laws or legal provisions.
In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court has held that it has the power to directly grant divorce to couples under Article 142 of the Constitution. This means that the court can dissolve a marriage without the parties having to go through the lengthy process of filing for divorce under personal laws or the Hindu Marriage Act, Special Marriage Act, or any other applicable law.
The court's decision to exercise its power under Article 142 to grant divorce is based on the principle of ensuring substantial justice and avoiding undue hardship or prolonging the legal process for parties involved. It recognizes that in certain exceptional cases where the marriage has irretrievably broken down, it may be appropriate for the court to intervene and directly dissolve the marriage.
World Bank Group Launches Business Ready (B -READY) Project
The World Bank Group has recently launched the Business Ready (B-READY) Project, aimed at promoting and supporting the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in developing countries. This initiative recognizes the crucial role played by SMEs in driving economic growth, job creation, and poverty reduction.
The B-READY Project aims to create an ecosystem that nurtures the growth and sustainability of SMEs. It recognizes that supporting SMEs is essential for fostering inclusive economic growth and reducing poverty, particularly in developing countries where SMEs constitute a significant portion of the economy.
The World Bank Group, through its financial resources, technical expertise, and global network, is well-positioned to implement the B-READY Project and collaborate with governments, development partners, and other stakeholders to create a supportive environment for SMEs.
The launch of the B-READY Project reflects the World Bank Group's commitment to promoting entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainable economic development. By empowering SMEs, this initiative has the potential to unlock new opportunities, boost job creation, and contribute to the overall economic well-being of developing countries. Click for more about Current Affairs for UPSC of 04 May/2023.
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