Important News - 2025-05-02
02 May 2025
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Politics (5)
Congress Leaders Thank Governor for Forwarding BC Reservation Bill to President
Congress leaders, including BC Welfare Minister Ponnam Prabhakar and TPCC president Mahesh Kumar Goud, met with Governor Jishnu Dev Varma to express gratitude for forwarding the legislation aimed at increasing reservations for Backward Classes (BCs) to 42% to the President’s Office for assent. The delegation, comprising BC MLAs, MLCs, former MLAs, MPs, and chairmen of various corporations, commended the Governor for his prompt decision. This move comes in the context of the Central government’s announcement to include caste census in the general census. Ponnam Prabhakar highlighted that the Revanth Reddy government has set a national example in ensuring fair representation for BCs in political, educational, and employment sectors. He also emphasized the significance of the caste survey conducted by the Telangana government, which demonstrated the feasibility of such initiatives. Mahesh Goud termed the BC caste survey in Telangana as historic and credited Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for advocating the issue of caste census, which he believes will provide more opportunities for backward classes. In March 2024, the Telangana Legislative Assembly passed two bills to enhance BC reservations to 42% in educational institutions, employment, and local body posts.
U.P. Muslim MPs Condemn Harassment of Community, Call for Unity Post-Pahalgam Attack
On May 2, 2025, Muslim Members of Parliament (MPs) from Uttar Pradesh condemned incidents of abuse and harassment targeting the Muslim community following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The MPs emphasized that such actions not only serve the interests of external adversaries but also threaten national unity. Afzal Ansari, Lok Sabha member from Ghazipur, stated that these incidents, allegedly perpetrated by extremist elements, undermine India’s internal cohesion. He highlighted that Muslims across Uttar Pradesh had protested against Pakistan, demanding strict punishment for the perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack. Imran Masood, Congress MP from Saharanpur, labeled those targeting the Muslim community as “internal foes” of Indian society, emphasizing that such actions benefit Pakistan rather than India. Recent incidents in Uttar Pradesh, including a case in Aligarh where a Muslim student was forced to urinate on a Pakistani flag and the alleged retaliatory killing of a restaurant owner in Agra, have raised concerns about communal tension. The MPs urged authorities to act firmly against those fomenting communal discord and reiterated the need for societal unity in the face of terrorism.
Uttarakhand HC Criticizes Nainital Administration for Illegal Demolition Notice
The Uttarakhand High Court, on May 2, 2025, strongly criticized the local administration in Nainital for issuing an 'illegal' demolition notice against the house of Usman, a 72-year-old man accused of raping a 12-year-old girl. The court emphasized that the administration failed to adhere to the Supreme Court’s guidelines on demolitions, which mandate a 15-day prior notice, a fair hearing, and videography of the process. The bench, comprising Chief Justice G. Narendra and Justice Ravindra Maithani, questioned the civic body’s actions and warned of potential contempt proceedings. The court also reprimanded the police for their inability to control the law and order situation in Nainital, which escalated after communal tensions arose following the alleged assault. The civic body issued an unconditional apology and withdrew all 63 demolition notices. The High Court has scheduled the next hearing for May 6, 2025, and has directed the police and civic body to submit a detailed compliance report.
Hubballi Witnesses Massive Protest Against Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025
On Friday, a significant protest was organized in Hubballi by the Muslim community against the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025. The protest, led by religious leaders and office bearers of Anjuman-E-Islam, began at B.R. Ambedkar Circle and culminated at Sangolli Rayanna Circle. Participants, wearing black armbands and holding placards, demanded the withdrawal of the amended Act, which they claimed was against the interests of the Muslim community. The protest was spearheaded by A.M. Hindasageri, President of Anjuman-E-Islam and former minister, who submitted a memorandum to the tahsildar. Community leader Mohammed Ali Kaji criticized the union government, alleging that the amendments were unconstitutional and aimed at stripping minority communities of their rights. The protest saw the participation of various Muslim organizations and leaders, including HDUDA Chairman Shakir Sanadi and former HDUDA chairman Anwar Mudhol. The Hubballi Police, led by Commissioner N. Shashikumar, implemented extensive security measures, and traffic was diverted to alternate routes to manage the situation.
Karnataka High Court Dismisses Bhavani Revanna's Petition in Prajwal Revanna Rape Case
Schemes (1)
RTE Students Achieve 75.57% Pass Rate in SSLC Exams
The first batch of students enrolled under the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, has achieved commendable results in the SSLC examination, with an overall pass percentage of 75.57. Out of the 25,453 RTE students who appeared for the exams, 19,235 successfully cleared them, including 8,857 boys and 10,378 girls. The highest number of RTE students who appeared for the SSLC exams were from Bengaluru South (2,164) and Bengaluru North (1,769) districts. This batch, admitted to various private schools, including CBSE and ICSE, in 2012-13, marked the first group of RTE students to appear for board exams. Minister for School Education and Literacy Madhu Bangarappa announced that five RTE students scored 624 out of 625, while around 50 students scored above 620. The RTE Act, implemented in 2009, aims to provide free and compulsory education to children aged 6 to 14 years.
Sports (1)
₹8.50 Crore Synthetic Track and Table Tennis Shed to Enhance Sardar Patel Stadium in Khammam
On Friday, Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao laid the foundation stone for a synthetic track at Sardar Patel Stadium in Khammam, with an estimated cost of ₹8.50 crore. Additionally, a table tennis shed will be constructed at a cost of ₹50 lakh. These projects are funded by the Telangana Urban Finance Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (TUFIDC) and aim to upgrade sports infrastructure in the district. The Minister emphasized the importance of nurturing sporting talent and announced plans to identify 20 acres for a proposed cricket stadium, which will soon be submitted to Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy for approval. Khammam MP Ramasahayam Raghuram Reddy and Collector Muzammil Khan were also present at the event.
World Affairs (1)
Kozhikode Joins WHO’s Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities
Kozhikode city has been recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a member of its Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities and Communities (GNAFCC). This membership acknowledges Kozhikode's efforts in creating policies, infrastructure, and services that support the elderly, enabling them to lead healthy, active, and creative lives in their later years. The initiative focuses on improving the quality of life for older adults by ensuring accessible public spaces, providing community-based housing support, and enhancing access to healthcare and communication tools. This global recognition highlights Kozhikode's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for its aging population.
Heritage (1)
Jaatra at Taj Puri Resort Celebrates Odisha’s Culinary and Maritime Heritage
Jaatra, the specialty restaurant at the newly-inaugurated Taj Puri Resort and Spa in Puri, Odisha, offers a unique culinary experience that celebrates the rich heritage of Odisha and its historical connections with Southeast Asia. The restaurant is inspired by the ancient maritime voyages of the Kalinga dynasty, which linked Odisha to regions like Bali and Sri Lanka nearly 2,000 years ago. The resort’s architecture reflects the Kalinga style, using traditional materials like Khondalite and laterite stone, and is adorned with Odisha’s artistic elements such as Pattachitra motifs and Ikat weaves. The menu, curated by Roopali Mohanti and chef Sabyasachi Gorai, features a fusion of traditional Odia and Southeast Asian dishes, including steamed manda pitha, Ayam Goreng, and khmer sea bass amok. The restaurant also highlights Odisha’s cultural heritage through its decor, which includes intricate maps of historical voyages and traditional fishing baskets. Jaatra is set to introduce a cocktail bar and menu, further enhancing its narrative of flavors and storytelling.
Economy (1)
Karnataka's Electricity Demand Drops Due to April Rainfall
In April, Karnataka experienced a lower-than-expected electricity demand due to the 'mango showers' that brought scattered rainfall across the state. According to data from the Energy Department, the peak demand in April was 17,330 megawatts (MW) on April 2, which was significantly lower than the anticipated 18,500 MW to 19,000 MW. Earlier, Energy Minister K.J. George had predicted a higher demand during the summer months, with February and March already witnessing unprecedented peaks of 18,350 MW and 18,395 MW, respectively. However, the unexpected rainfall helped manage the demand, with most days in April recording consumption between 14,000 MW and 15,500 MW. To handle the expected surge, the Energy Department had arranged to procure power from states like Punjab and Uttar Pradesh on an exchange basis. With the reduced demand, the department now plans to sell the surplus power at higher rates. Officials also noted that the peak demand in the Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (Bescom) region was lower by over 100 MW compared to the previous year, with April 2024 recording a peak of 8,381 MW on April 30, while April 2025 saw a peak of 8,233 MW on April 8. The reduced demand was attributed to lower air conditioner usage and decreased agricultural load due to the rainfall.
Miscellaneous (2)
SSLC Exam 2023 Results Show 8.34% Improvement, Dakshina Kannada Tops State
The results of the Secondary School Leaving Certificate (SSLC) annual exam-1 for the year 2023, announced on Friday, showed a significant improvement of 8.34 percentage points compared to the previous year. A total of 22 students, including two from government schools, achieved a perfect score of 625/625, emerging as State toppers. Bengaluru students secured the majority of top positions, with seven students scoring 100%. The overall pass percentage this year stood at 62.34%, up from 54% in the previous year, which was later adjusted to 73% due to grace marks. This year, the Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board (KSEAB) did not award grace marks, following instructions from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, except for those allowed under the examination ordinance to promote borderline students. Out of 8,42,173 students who appeared for the exam, 5,24,984 passed, with 75% of them securing first class and distinction. The Minister for School Education and Literacy, Madhu Bangarappa, attributed the improved results to measures such as completing the syllabus by December, conducting special classes, and providing free electricity for evening classes. Dakshina Kannada topped the district-wise results with a pass percentage of 91.12%, followed by Udupi (89.96%), Uttara Kannada (83.19%), Shivamogga (82.29%), and Kodagu (82.21%). Yadgir district improved its performance, moving from the bottom to the 33rd position with a pass percentage of 51.6%, while Kalaburagi and Vijayapura saw declines in their rankings.
NEET-UG 2024: 26 MBBS Students Suspended, 42 Candidates Debarred for Malpractice
In a significant move to address irregularities in the NEET-UG 2024 examination, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the National Testing Agency (NTA) have identified multiple cases of malpractice, including impersonation and the use of leaked question papers. Following the investigation, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has instructed medical colleges to suspend 26 MBBS students involved in the violations. Additionally, admissions of 14 students for the academic year 2024–25 have been canceled. A senior official from the Union Health Ministry emphasized the seriousness of these offenses, stating that they undermine the credibility of the medical education system. The NTA's Unfair Means (UFM) Committee reviewed flagged cases and debarred 42 candidates from appearing in NEET-UG for three years (2024, 2025, and 2026), while nine others were barred for two years (2025 and 2026). The candidature of 215 candidates remains under review as the investigation continues. NEET-UG, India's sole nationwide entrance examination for undergraduate medical programs, has faced allegations of malpractice in its 2024 edition, including question paper leaks leading to arrests in Bihar and raids in Gujarat. The declaration of results on June 4, 2024, sparked controversy due to an unprecedented number of top scorers and statistically improbable marks, prompting public outcry, legal challenges, and nationwide protests demanding a re-examination.
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