indian polity

Women’s Representation in Politics 2024, Trend and Challenges

Context: In 2024, India elected 74 female Members of Parliament (MPs) to the Lok Sabha, which is four less than in 2019. This is a decrease from the 14.4% representation in the 2019 elections. And 52 more than the number...

Maharashtra Bill to Curb Urban Naxalism

Context: The Maharashtra government proposed ‘Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill, 2024'. What is the New Maharashtra Bill to Curb Urban Naxalism? The proposed bill in Maharashtra introduces stringent measures against what it classifies as "unlawful organisations" and activities: Power to...

Enforcement Directorate (ED), Power, Functions and Jurisdiction

Context The Supreme Court granted interim bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the excise policy case. The Court raised the bar for arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. More...

Expunction Powers in Indian Parliament

Context: During the first special session of the 18th Lok Sabha, there were notable incidents involving the expunction of remarks by leaders of the opposition. Expunction Powers in Parliament Expunction powers in the Indian Parliament are vital for upholding the...

President’s Address to Parliament and Motion of Thanks

Context: President Droupadi Murmu addressed the parliament. President’s Address to the Parliament: An Overview Article 87 of the Constitution: It provides two instances when the President specially addresses both Houses of Parliament. The President of India addresses both the Rajya...

Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha, Powers and Functions, Constitutional Provisions

Context: Congress MP Rahul Gandhi and the Opposition have shown a willingness to support the NDA's candidate for Speaker, on the condition that the government follows parliamentary convention by allocating the Deputy Speaker's post to the Opposition. Deputy Speaker of...

Panchayat Extension to Scheduled Areas (PESA Act) 1996

Context Political representation for marginalised communities can boost forest conservation and secure economic interests. They advocate for decentralisation and democratisation, giving local communities actual decision-making power in resource management. Background of PESA Act 1996 India's conservation policy has struggled with...

Election Of Lok Sabha Speaker, Criteria and Voting Process

Context: Om Birla was elected the Lok Sabha Speaker (2nd time) by defeating the opposition candidate Kodikkunil Suresh. Election Of Lok Sabha Speaker Article 93: It says that the House of the People shall, as soon as may be, choose...

Rahul Gandhi appointed as Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha

Context: Rahul Gandhi will be the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha. This will be the first time in 10 years that the Lok Sabha will have a Leader of Opposition. Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha The Leader of...

Om Birla elected Lok Sabha Speaker for Second Term

Om Birla Re-elected as Speaker of the 18th Lok Sabha Om Birla, the BJP nominee, has been re-elected as the Speaker of the 18th Lok Sabha. He was up against Congress candidate K Suresh, who filed his nomination after the...