Important News - 2025-04-30
30 April 2025
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Politics (5)
CPI(M) and IUML Protest Against BJP in Palakkad Over Skill Center Naming
The Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] and the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) organized protests in Palakkad against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday. The protests were in response to an incident involving the alleged attack on CPI(M) councillor Saleena Beevi by BJP councillors during a dispute over the naming of a skill development center after RSS founder K.B. Hedgewar. The protests were held in front of the municipal office, where CPI(M) leaders, including district secretariat member T.K. Noushad, addressed the gathering. IUML leaders, including Muslim Youth League national vice-president P.P. Anvar Sadath, also condemned the BJP's decision to name the center after the RSS founder, calling it an act of promoting communal politics. The protesters emphasized the need to uphold democratic values and resist attempts to glorify individuals associated with anti-national activities.
G. Kishan Reddy Denounces Congress Over Caste Census Tactics
Telangana BJP President and Union Minister of Coal & Mines, G. Kishan Reddy, emphasized that the decision to conduct a caste enumeration was made after extensive deliberation, not impulsively. He highlighted the government's commitment to societal and national values, citing the previous introduction of a 10% reservation for economically weaker sections without causing societal stress. Reddy accused the Congress party and its allies of using the 'caste census' as a political tool, alleging their intent was to divide society rather than promote social justice or effective governance. He made these remarks in a press release, reiterating the government's dedication to inclusive policies.
Siddaramaiah Stresses Debate as Central to Democracy on Basava Jayanti
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah highlighted the importance of debate and discussion in democracy during a speech at Kudalasangama in Bagalokt district on the occasion of Basava Jayanti. He emphasized that debate is a fundamental aspect of democracy and that its absence leads to dictatorship. Siddaramaiah discussed the construction of the Anubhava Mantapa, a monument dedicated to fostering dialogue and dissent, which is inspired by the 12th-century philosopher Basavanna's vision of Anubhava Mantapa as a platform for religious and social debates. Siddaramaiah also stressed the need to follow the ideals of Sharanas, including ending caste-based discrimination and blind beliefs. He reiterated the importance of basing societal values on equality rather than the Manuvadi philosophy of inequality and discrimination. The Chief Minister also mentioned Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's reference to Basavanna's philosophy in his writings, highlighting its progressive nature. The event was organized by the Department of Kannada and Culture and the District Administration.
Thrissur Court Grants Bail in Casteist Slur Case Against Former Minister
The Special Court in Thrissur, Kerala, granted bail to V. Vipindas, who was accused of making a casteist slur against former Minister K. Radhakrishnan. The case was filed under the Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The prosecution alleged that Vipindas posted the derogatory comment in the comment section of a video report about Radhakrishnan, knowing that the former Minister belongs to the Scheduled Caste. Although the police served a notice to Radhakrishnan, he did not appear in court. The complainant expressed no objection to the bail, but the prosecution strongly opposed it. Special Judge K. Kamanees noted the gravity of the offense, emphasizing the accused's audacity in publicly addressing a Minister by his caste name. The court also highlighted that digital evidence was collected, and the accused, who had been in jail for seven days, cooperated with the investigation. As part of the bail conditions, the accused was required to surrender his passport and provide sureties.
YSRCP Accuses NDA Government of Negligence in Simhachalam Temple Tragedy
The YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) has accused the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government of gross negligence in crowd management at the Simhachalam Temple, which resulted in the death of seven devotees. The party criticized the government for failing to ensure safety at sacred sites and treating Hindu devotees as a vote bank. YSRCP leader and former Minister Vellampalli Srinivas highlighted several past incidents, including temple demolitions during Krishna Pushkaram, the Godavari Pushkaram stampede, the Tirupati stampede, and the recent wall collapse at the Simhachalam Temple. He questioned the credibility of inquiry committees, particularly referencing the unsolved probe into the Tirupati stampede. Srinivas also emphasized the lack of basic amenities, such as toilets, reported by women devotees, and criticized the government for prioritizing the distribution of passes among MLAs over critical arrangements. He demanded that Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan address ongoing issues, including liquor sales in Tirumala and animal deaths in Srikurmam.
Scheme (1)
The Hindu Civil Service Gateway Summit 2025: A Comprehensive Guide for UPSC Aspirants
The Hindu Civil Service Gateway Summit 2025 will be held on May 9 and 10 at Hotel Hycinth Confluence, Thiruvananthapur, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. This two-day intensive event is tailored exclusively for UPSC aspirants preparing for the 2026–27 examination cycle. The summit features sessions led by top civil service officers, UPSC toppers, and subject experts, offering strategic guidance on time management, exam preparation, and career planning. Key topics include mastering time management, strategies for cracking the UPSC with IAS as a goal, and insights into the Indian Audit and Accounts Service. Additionally, rank holders from the 2025 Civil Services Exam, including Nandanaa G.P. (AIR 47), Sonnet Jose (AIR 54), and Visakh C.R. (AIR 656), will share their experiences and advice. The event also includes a masterclass on reading newspapers for UPSC preparation and a session on learning from the 2025 batch of UPSC toppers. Participants can interact with leading coaching institutes, explore course offerings, and gain practical insights into governance and public service.
Census (2)
Centre’s Decision on Caste Census Welcomed, Socio-Economic Survey Urged
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has welcomed the Central government’s decision to include caste enumeration in the upcoming population census. He emphasized the need for a socio-economic and educational survey alongside the caste census to ensure equitable reservation policies. Siddaramaiah highlighted that Karnataka has already conducted a similar socio-economic and educational survey, the report of which was presented to the State Cabinet on April 17, 2023. He noted that the Supreme Court has upheld the necessity of such surveys for formulating reservation policies scientifically. Siddaramaiah also credited Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi for sustaining the momentum for the caste census, which led to the Centre’s decision. Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H.K. Patil stated that the NDA government appears to be adopting the Karnataka model for the survey. The upcoming State Cabinet meeting on May 9 will deliberate on the Karnataka State Commission for Backward Classes’ survey report and the Centre’s decision on the caste census.
Central Government to Include Caste Enumeration in Next Census, Bihar Leaders Applaud Decision
On April 30, 2025, the Central government announced that caste enumeration would be included in the next Census, a decision welcomed by leaders across Bihar. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, from the Janata Dal (United), praised the move, stating it aligns with their long-standing demand and will aid in formulating policies for the growth and development of various caste groups. Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, a senior BJP leader, also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the decision, emphasizing its significance for the OBC community. However, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) highlighted that this was one of their long-pending demands and emphasized the need for further action. Notably, in 2022, the Bihar government under the Mahagathbandhan initiated a caste survey, the results of which led to an increase in reservations from 50% to 65% in educational institutions and government jobs, though this hike was later quashed by the Patna High Court. The inclusion of caste enumeration in the Census is seen as a historic step towards understanding and addressing caste-based disparities in India.
Festivals (2)
Thrissur Pooram Festivities Commence with Traditional Flag Hoisting Ceremonies
The Thrissur Pooram, one of Kerala's most iconic festivals, commenced with the ceremonial flag hoisting (Kodiyettam) at various temples, including Thiruvambady and Paramekkavu, the main organizers. The flag hoisting at Thiruvambady temple took place on Wednesday between 11 a.m. and 11.30 a.m., led by Tantri Puliyannur Sankaranarayanan Namboodiripad, Puliyannur Jayanthan Namboodiripad, and melshantis Dineshan Namboodiri and Pradeep Namboodiri. The kodimaram (flagpole) was crafted by the Thazhathupuraykkal Aashari family and adorned with a sacred flag after a bhoomi puja. The festivities included vibrant processions, traditional percussion ensembles, flag hoisting, ritual fireworks, and the ceremonial arat (holy bath). At Paramekkavu temple, the flag hoisting began at 12 noon with the Valiya Paani, followed by a procession of the deity. Yellow flags bearing the Simhamudra (lion emblem) were hoisted, and Kizhakkoottu Aniyan Marar led a Pandimelam. Eight other participating temples, including Laloor Karthyayani Bhagavathy and Ayyanthole Bhagavathy, also hoisted ceremonial flags, immersing Thrissur in the Pooram fervor.
Kerala’s First Haj Flight Departs from Karipur on May 10, 2024
The inaugural Haj flight from Kerala for the 2024 season is scheduled to depart from Calicut International Airport, Karipur, at 1.20 a.m. on May 10. A total of 5,361 pilgrims will embark on their journey from Karipur aboard 31 flights between May 10 and May 22. Haj services are also being operated from Kannur and Kochi airports, with 81 flights planned from these three embarkation points. The first flight from Kannur International Airport will take off at 4 a.m. on May 11, while the Cochin International Airport’s first Haj flight will depart at 5.55 p.m. on May 16. Air India Express is managing flights from Karipur and Kannur, while Saudi Arabian Airlines is operating from Nedumbassery. This year, 15,870 pilgrims are traveling for Haj under the supervision of the State Haj Committee, with 24 pilgrims departing from locations outside Kerala. The Airport Authority of India (AAI) recently held a review meeting at Karipur, attended by airport director C.V. Raveendran and Haj Committee chairman Husain Saqafi Chullikkode, to ensure smooth operations.
Miscellaneous (2)
Police Seize 1.885 kg of Ganja in Operation D-Hunt, Arrest Suspect from Mala
In a significant drug bust under Operation D-Hunt, the police arrested a 25-year-old man, Justin, from Madathumpady, Mala, on Wednesday. The authorities seized 1.885 kilograms of ganja, allegedly smuggled from Odisha, during a special vehicle check near the Chalakudy KSRTC bus station. The operation was led by Deputy Superintendent of Police K. Sumesh, based on intelligence received by Thrillur District Police Chief (Rural) B. Krishnakumar. The drugs were found concealed in the suspect's travel bag. Justin attempted to flee upon noticing the police but was swiftly apprehended. During interrogation, his inconsistent statements prompted a thorough search, leading to the discovery of the contraband. Justin has been remanded in judicial custody, and further investigations are underway to uncover the supply network and potential interstate links.
IIT Madras Appointed to Assess Structural Issues in GCDA Apartment Complex
The State government has appointed IIT Madras as a consultant to assess structural and design flaws in the apartment complex at Mundamveli, constructed by the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) for rehabilitating families evicted from the erstwhile P&T Colony. Residents have raised concerns about substantial leaks and cracks in nearly all apartments, prompting plans for protests. IIT Madras will conduct a comprehensive study, perform scientific tests, and recommend solutions to ensure the building's stability for the next 25 years. The decision to engage IIT Madras was delayed, and initial attempts to involve IIT Palakkad were unsuccessful. The residents’ association has welcomed the appointment but remains cautious about proceeding with protests.
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