Current Affairs Reverse Engineering – Care (17-12-2024)
| News at a Glance |
| International Relations: India, China set to hold special representatives’ meeting |
| Environment and Ecology: Why Arctic tundra is emitting more carbon than it absorbs, for first time in many millennia |
| Reusing treated wastewater key to resolving India’s urban water crisis: CSE |
| Agriculture: Why natural farming is key to economic success of apple orchards |
| Polity and Governance: What is the procedure for removing judges? |
India, China set to hold special representatives’ meeting
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2 International Relations
Context: India-China Boundary Talks
Why in News
The recent developments surrounding India-China relations, particularly concerning the boundary issue, mark a significant step towards reducing tensions and fostering diplomatic engagements.
Background of the India-China Border Standoff
- The border tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), particularly in eastern Ladakh, have persisted since May 2020.
- Multiple face-offs at key friction points like Pangong Tso, Galwan Valley, and other areas escalated into a prolonged military standoff, leading to casualties on both sides.
- Efforts to resolve the situation have included multiple rounds of military and diplomatic negotiations.
- However, progress has been incremental, focusing on troop disengagement at certain friction points while maintaining a delicate peace.
Recent Developments Leading to the Special Representatives’ Meeting
- a) Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) Talks: December 5, 2023
- The WMCC on India-China Border Affairs met in New Delhi on December 5, 2023.
- This mechanism, established in 2012, serves as a diplomatic platform for both sides to address border management and discuss measures to prevent incidents along the LAC.
- In the latest meeting, the two sides:
- Reflected on the lessons learned from the past four years of the border standoff.
- Agreed on the need for effective border management and ensuring “peace and tranquility” along the LAC.
- Prepared the ground for the 23rd Special Representatives’ dialogue.
- b) Revival of Dialogue Mechanisms
- The Special Representatives (SRs) Dialogue on the boundary question had remained stalled since the last round in December 2019, due to the standoff and subsequent strained relations.
- The decision to revive the SR-level talks was taken at the meeting between:
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi and
- Chinese President Xi Jinping
on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, on October 23, 2023.
- c) Significance of the October 21 Border Patrolling Pact
- Prior to the WMCC meeting, on October 21, 2023, India and China signed a border patrolling pact to ensure that patrols do not inadvertently escalate tensions.
- This pact is aimed at minimizing incidents during border patrols by both sides.
The 23rd Special Representatives’ Dialogue: December 18, 2023
- a) Participants
- India: National Security Advisor Ajit Doval serves as India’s Special Representative for boundary talks.
- China: Foreign Minister Wang Yi leads the Chinese delegation.
- b) Key Objectives of the Dialogue
The SRs dialogue serves as the highest-level platform for addressing the India-China boundary dispute. The main objectives of the 23rd meeting are:
- De-escalation and De-militarization:
- While both sides have completed troop disengagement at specific friction points, the focus now shifts to reducing overall military presence (de-escalation) and eventual withdrawal of additional troops (de-militarization) along the LAC.
- This step is critical to restoring a stable and peaceful border environment.
- Effective Border Management:
- Strengthening mechanisms to ensure that border patrols and activities do not lead to misunderstandings or face-offs.
- This includes protocols for better communication and coordination between military commanders on both sides.
- Broader Bilateral Relationship:
- Resolving the border issue is essential for normalizing India-China ties and expanding cooperation in other areas, including trade, regional stability, and multilateral platforms.
Strategic Importance of the Talks
The current developments reflect an incremental but positive shift in India-China relations:
- Four-and-a-Half-Year Deadlock: The standoff that began in 2020 significantly strained ties, marking the lowest point in bilateral relations in decades.
- Dialogue Revival: The revival of the Special Representatives’ dialogue after four years signals a political will on both sides to work towards de-escalation.
- Global Geopolitical Context:
- Both countries recognize the importance of stability along their borders amid broader geopolitical challenges.
- For India, managing tensions with China allows it to focus on economic growth and strategic interests.
- For China, addressing border issues can improve its regional standing amid increasing global scrutiny.
Next Steps: Peace, Stability, and Resolution
The path ahead involves:
- Sustained Dialogue: Continued meetings at both official and military levels to address outstanding issues and ensure stability.
- Mutual Trust Building: Implementation of agreed measures to prevent further clashes or misunderstandings.
- Resolution of Boundary Question: While troop disengagement and de-escalation address immediate concerns, the long-term goal remains a mutually acceptable resolution to the boundary question.
Conclusion
- The 23rd Special Representatives’ meeting on December 18, 2023, in Beijing marks a crucial step in ongoing diplomatic efforts to stabilize India-China relations.
- Following years of tensions, the focus on disengagement, de-escalation, and effective border management reflects a pragmatic approach to addressing one of the most contentious issues in the bilateral relationship.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q1. Consider the following statements regarding the Special Representatives’ (SR) Dialogue on the India-China boundary issue:
1. The SR Dialogue on the boundary question was last held in 2019 before its recent revival in 2023. 2. The Indian side in the SR Dialogue is represented by the National Security Advisor (NSA). 3. The SR Dialogue is part of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) framework. Which of the above statements is/are correct? |
Q. “Belt and Road Initiative” is sometimes mentioned in the news in the context of the affairs of : (2016)
(a) African Union (b) Brazil (c) European Union (d) China Ans: D
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| Answer – 1 – A
Explanation –
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Why Arctic tundra is emitting more carbon than it absorbs, for first time in many millennia
Source: Indian Express
UPSC Relevance: GS3 Environment and Ecology
Context: Arctic tundra as a source of greenhouse gases (GHGs)
Why in News
The Arctic tundra, previously a carbon sink, has become a source of greenhouse gases (GHGs) due to rising temperatures and increased wildfires, exacerbating global climate change.
Overview
- The Arctic tundra is a fragile and critical biome, and its transformation from a carbon sink to a carbon source is an alarming development in the fight against climate change.
- The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) annual Arctic Report Card reveals that this ecosystem, which has stored carbon for thousands of years, is now emitting significant greenhouse gases (GHGs) due to rising temperatures and increased wildfires.
How the Arctic Tundra Stores Carbon
The Arctic tundra’s unique cold climate has historically enabled it to store massive amounts of carbon in permafrost.
- The Carbon Cycle in Typical Ecosystems
- Plants absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere through photosynthesis.
- When plants and animals die, their remains are broken down by microbes (bacteria and fungi), releasing CO₂ back into the atmosphere.
- The Arctic Tundra’s Distinct Carbon Storage
- In the Arctic tundra, low temperatures dramatically slow decomposition of organic matter.
- Plant and animal remains get trapped in permafrost—soil that remains frozen for at least two consecutive years.
- Because decomposition is limited, CO₂ stays locked in the frozen ground for thousands of years.
- Stored Carbon: Arctic soils contain 1.6 trillion metric tonnes of carbon, which is twice the carbon in the atmosphere today.
Thus, permafrost acts like a freezer, preventing carbon from re-entering the atmosphere.
Why the Arctic Tundra Is Emitting More Carbon Than Absorbing It
The transformation of the tundra into a carbon source is attributed to two major reasons:
- a) Rising Temperatures
- Arctic Warming Rate: The Arctic is warming at four times the global average.
- Thawing Permafrost:
- Rising temperatures cause permafrost to thaw, reactivating microbes in the soil.
- These microbes decompose the ancient organic matter (plants and animals) and release CO₂ and methane (CH₄) into the atmosphere.
- Methane (CH₄) is particularly concerning because it is a more potent greenhouse gas than CO₂, trapping 25 times more heat over 100 years.
- Analogy: Twila Moon compared permafrost to frozen chicken—as long as it stays frozen, it doesn’t rot. Once it thaws, microbes “eat away” at the organic matter, releasing carbon.
- b) Increase in Wildfires
- Wildfire Frequency: The Arctic has experienced an unprecedented increase in wildfire frequency and intensity.
- Wildfire Emissions:
- Burning vegetation releases large amounts of GHGs, further contributing to global warming.
- Wildfires also accelerate permafrost thawing by removing the insulating layer of vegetation.
- Record-Breaking Fires:
- 2023 marked the worst wildfire season in the Arctic.
- 2024 is already the second-largest year for wildfire emissions.
The Cumulative Effect
- Between 2001 and 2020, the combination of rising temperatures and wildfires caused the Arctic tundra to emit more carbon than its plants could absorb—likely for the first time in thousands of years.
Why This Is Concerning
The Arctic tundra shifting from a carbon sink to a carbon source has global implications:
- Amplification of Climate Change:
- As the Arctic releases carbon, global GHG levels rise, leading to further warming.
- This triggers a feedback loop—higher temperatures cause more thawing and emissions, exacerbating climate change.
- Global Climate Consequences:
- Rising temperatures increase the risk of extreme weather events worldwide, such as hurricanes, droughts, and flooding.
- Melting permafrost can also destabilize Arctic infrastructure and affect local ecosystems.
Can This Be Reversed?
The Arctic Report Card emphasizes that reversing this trend is possible, but it requires aggressive global action to reduce GHG emissions:
- Reducing Global Emissions:
- By limiting climate change, the rate of permafrost thaw and associated emissions can be reduced.
- Expert View: Brendan Rogers, a contributing scientist, said that “lower levels of climate change lead to lower emissions from permafrost,” highlighting the urgent need for emissions reductions.
Current Emissions Trends
Unfortunately, global emissions continue to rise:
- A report by the Global Carbon Project (November 2024) projects:
- Total CO₂ emissions in 2024 will reach 41.6 billion tonnes (up from 40.6 billion tonnes in 2023).
- Emissions from fossil fuels and land-use changes (e.g., deforestation) are the key drivers.
Conclusion
- The Arctic tundra, once a stable carbon storage system, is now a major source of GHG emissions due to thawing permafrost and increasing wildfires, both driven by global warming.
- This transformation can exacerbate climate change, leading to a dangerous feedback loop.
- While it is still possible to limit these emissions by reducing global GHGs, current trends indicate that emissions are continuing to rise, making immediate and aggressive climate action essential.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q2 With reference to the Arctic tundra ecosystem, consider the following statements:
1. The Arctic tundra stores carbon primarily in its permafrost layer, which remains frozen for at least two consecutive years. 2. Methane (CH₄) emissions from the Arctic tundra are less potent than carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions in contributing to global warming. 3. Increased wildfires in the Arctic tundra accelerate the thawing of permafrost. Which of the statements given above are correct? |
Q. Which of the following statements is/are correct about the deposits of ‘methane hydrate’? (2019)
1. Global warming might trigger the release of methane gas from these deposits. 2. Large deposits of ‘methane hydrate’ are found in Arctic Tundra and under the sea floor. 3. Methane in atmosphere oxidizes to carbon dioxide after a decade or two. Select the correct answer using the code given below. (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Ans: (d)
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| Answer 2– B
Explanation –
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Reusing treated wastewater key to resolving India’s urban water crisis: CSE
Source: Down To Earth
UPSC Relevance: GS3 Environment and Ecology
Context: Wastewater Treatment
Why in News
India treats only 28% of its urban wastewater, and reusing treated wastewater presents a significant opportunity to address water scarcity sustainably.
Background
- India faces a severe water crisis exacerbated by rapid urbanization, industrial growth, and climate change.
- A significant contributor to this challenge is the lack of wastewater treatment infrastructure.
- A recent report, “Waste to Worth: Managing India’s Urban Water Crisis through Wastewater Reuse”—released jointly by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) and the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG)—underscores both the challenges and opportunities related to wastewater reuse in the country.
Key Findings of the Report
- High Untreated Wastewater Levels
- India generates 72,000 million litres of wastewater daily, of which only 28% is treated.
- The remaining 72% of untreated wastewater pollutes rivers, lakes, and soil, posing environmental and health risks.
- Potential of Treated Wastewater
- Treated wastewater can serve as a valuable resource for:
- Irrigation in agriculture
- Industrial use in power plants and factories
- Urban greening and landscaping
- Lake rejuvenation and groundwater recharge
- Treated wastewater can serve as a valuable resource for:
- Government Initiatives
- The Ministry of Jal Shakti mandates cities to recycle at least 20% of their wastewater, but achieving this target requires scaling up infrastructure and aligning policies.
- Integration of treated wastewater into flagship programmes like Jal Jeevan Mission, Atal Bhujal Yojana, and AMRUT (Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation) is recommended to foster water sustainability.
Challenges in Wastewater Management
- Infrastructure Deficits: Sewage treatment plants (STPs) are insufficient, outdated, or underperforming. Disparities exist between states and cities in wastewater treatment capacities.
- High Operational Costs: The cost of treating and distributing wastewater remains a barrier.
- Quality Assurance: Ensuring that treated water meets reuse standards is critical but often overlooked.
- Public Resistance: Cultural beliefs and safety concerns prevent widespread acceptance of treated wastewater for reuse.
- Regional Disparities: States like Uttar Pradesh lead in untreated wastewater volumes, followed by Maharashtra, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Delhi, and Haryana.
Success Stories in Wastewater Reuse
The report highlights successful case studies across 16 cities in seven states where wastewater reuse has been effectively implemented. Examples include:
- Nagpur (Maharashtra):
- Treated wastewater is supplied to power plants, reducing their dependence on freshwater.
- Bengaluru (Karnataka):
- Reused wastewater supports agriculture, lake rejuvenation, and groundwater recharge.
- Chennai (Tamil Nadu):
- Treated wastewater is used for:
- Industrial processes
- Urban landscaping
- Groundwater replenishment
- Treated wastewater is used for:
- Gujarat:
- The state has targeted 100% reuse of treated wastewater in agriculture and industry.
Opportunities for Improvement
- Circular Economy Approach: Wastewater reuse promotes a circular economy, where resources are reused sustainably to reduce freshwater demand.
- Decentralized Solutions: Small, localized treatment plants can address infrastructure gaps and reduce costs.
- Policy Alignment: Policies must integrate wastewater reuse with urban planning and industrial requirements.
- Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): Collaborations between governments, industries, and private enterprises can help fund and scale wastewater treatment technologies.
- Community Engagement and Capacity Building: Educating communities and addressing cultural barriers can encourage the acceptance of treated wastewater as a safe and valuable resource.
Recommendations by the Report
- Prioritize Wastewater Reuse: Policymakers must recognize treated wastewater as a public good and prioritize its reuse.
- Invest in Infrastructure: Significant investments are needed to build and modernize sewage treatment plants (STPs).
- Innovative Technologies: Promote cost-effective and decentralized treatment technologies to close infrastructure gaps.
- Align Policies with Urban and Industrial Needs: Ensure treated wastewater is integrated into urban greening, industrial processes, and agriculture.
- Overcome Cultural Barriers: Public awareness campaigns must focus on the benefits and safety of treated wastewater reuse.
- Equitable Access: Reuse initiatives must address the needs of underserved communities to ensure equitable water access.
Conclusion
The report, Waste to Worth, presents a compelling case for reimagining wastewater as a critical water resource rather than a waste product. By embracing wastewater reuse, India can:
- Tackle its growing water scarcity.
- Mitigate environmental degradation.
- Promote sustainable urban water management.
Achieving this vision requires a combination of policy reforms, infrastructure investments, and community engagement to ensure that treated wastewater becomes a cornerstone of India’s water security strategy.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
| Q3. Consider the following statements regarding wastewater management in India:
1. India treats only 28% of the urban wastewater generated daily. 2. The Ministry of Jal Shakti mandates cities to recycle at least 50% of the water they consume. 3. Gujarat aims for 100% reuse of treated wastewater in agriculture and industry. 4. Nagpur and Chennai are examples of cities successfully reusing treated wastewater for industrial purposes. Which of the statements given above are correct? |
Q. Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) is a standard criterion for (2017)
(a) Measuring oxygen levels in blood Ans: (c)
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| Answer 3– A
Explanation –
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Why natural farming is key to economic success of apple orchards?
Source: Down-to-earth
UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3- Agriculture
Context: Natural Farming
Why in News
Apple farming in Himachal Pradesh faces declining productivity due to poor practices and climate change, with natural farming offering a sustainable solution to restore soil health, improve yields, and reduce costs.
Overview
- Apple farming in Himachal Pradesh, once thriving, has seen a significant decline in productivity, primarily due to poor management practices, excessive reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and the adverse effects of climate change.
- However, the adoption of natural farming practices is emerging as a sustainable solution to improve soil health, increase apple yields, and reduce environmental pollution.
- This approach has already shown positive outcomes, with success stories such as that of Subhash Shadru, who transitioned to natural farming and saw both reduced costs and increased profits from premium-quality apples.
Decline in Apple Productivity
- Apple farming is a major agricultural activity in Himachal Pradesh, contributing to both the state’s economy and food security. However, productivity has drastically decreased over the years, from 10.84 tonnes per hectare in 1981-82 to just 4.18 tonnes per hectare by 2023.
- This decline can be attributed to poor management practices, over-reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and the impacts of climate change (e.g., extreme temperatures, unpredictable rainfall).
Challenges of Expanding Orchard Land
- Expanding apple orchard land is not a feasible solution to meet rising demand for apples due to geographical constraints, lack of available land, and the environmental impact of monoculture farming.
- Thus, the focus is shifting towards improving productivity in existing orchards.
Natural Farming Practices
Natural farming, based on eco-friendly principles, offers a sustainable way to improve orchard productivity while maintaining soil health and reducing environmental harm. Core practices include:
- Jeevamrit and Ghanjeevamrit: These bio-inoculants and manure, made from local resources like cow dung and urine, improve soil health and enhance nutrient availability.
- Rognashi Dawa and Keetnash Astras: Natural pesticides made from ingredients like neem and garlic offer effective pest control without harmful chemicals.
- Mulching: The use of organic materials like straw to cover soil helps retain moisture, prevent weed growth, and promote soil health.
- Crop Rotation: Planting crops like legumes and cereals alongside apple trees boosts soil fertility, pest control, and nitrogen fixation.
Economic and Environmental Benefits
- Natural farming significantly reduces the reliance on expensive chemical fertilizers and pesticides, leading to lower production costs (up to 56.5% savings compared to conventional farming).
- Apples grown through natural methods often command a premium market price due to their organic nature, contributing to higher profitability for farmers.
- The health of soil ecosystems is improved, leading to better fruit quality, including increased firmness, flavor, and sugar content. The natural methods also enhance fruit set by supporting pollinator habitats (e.g., bees).
- Additionally, the improved soil structure helps apple trees withstand the challenges posed by climate change, such as extreme temperatures and erratic rainfall patterns.
Shadru’s Success Story
- Subhash Shadru, a farmer in Shimla, adopted natural farming methods despite initial challenges. His efforts resulted in larger, juicier apples with better flavor, along with a significant reduction in expenses and an increase in profits due to the premium price for his organically grown apples.
- Shadru’s story has inspired other farmers in Shimla to transition to natural farming, sparking a larger movement towards sustainable agriculture in the region.
The Future of Shimla’s Apple Industry
- Natural farming has become a model for sustainable apple cultivation in Shimla. As more farmers adopt these practices, the region’s apple industry is likely to thrive again, driven by:
- Environmental sustainability (reduced pollution, enhanced biodiversity).
- Economic growth (higher yields, premium pricing, lower costs).
- Resilience to climate change (stronger, healthier apple trees).
- By combining eco-friendly farming practices with economic viability, natural farming offers a long-term solution to the challenges facing Himachal Pradesh’s apple industry.
Conclusion
- The rise of natural farming marks a transformative shift in apple farming in Himachal Pradesh.
- By focusing on sustainable practices, restoring soil health, and reducing chemical dependence, natural farming has the potential to revitalize the state’s apple industry, offering both ecological balance and economic prosperity.
- This approach not only addresses the declining productivity but also ensures a sustainable legacy for future generations of apple farmers.
| CARE MCQ | UPSC PYQ |
Q4. Consider the following statements regarding natural farming practices in Himachal Pradesh’s apple industry:
Which of the statements given above are correct? |
Q. How is permaculture farming different from conventional chemical farming? (2021)
Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 3 Ans: (b) |
| Answer 4- D
Explanation
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What is the procedure for removing judges?
Source: The Hindu
UPSC Relevance: GS2 Polity and Governance
Context: Removal of High Court Judge
Why in News
Fifty-five MPs of the Rajya Sabha have submitted a motion, for removing Allahabad High Court Judge, Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav, to Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
Overview
- The removal of a judge from the Supreme Court or High Court in India is a complex and stringent process designed to protect the independence of the judiciary while holding judges accountable for misconduct or incapacity. The Constitution of India (Articles 124 and 217) outlines the grounds for removal, which can only occur based on “proved misbehaviour” or “incapacity.” However, these terms are not specifically defined in the Constitution, leaving the interpretation to the judiciary.
Grounds for Removal:
- Misbehaviour: The Supreme Court has interpreted misbehaviour to include wilful misconduct, corruption, lack of integrity, or any offence involving moral turpitude.
- Incapacity: This typically refers to a medical condition that affects the physical or mental ability of the judge to perform judicial functions.
Motion in Parliament:
- A motion for the removal of a judge must be passed by both Houses of Parliament, as per the procedure outlined in the Constitution.
- The motion must be supported by a majority of the total membership of the House, and at least two-thirds of the members present and voting (a special majority).
- This motion is debated and voted on in both the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha in the same session.
Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968:
- The detailed procedure for removal is governed by the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968. According to this act:
- The notice of motion for removal must be signed by at least 50 members in the Rajya Sabha and 100 members in the Lok Sabha.
- The Chairman of the Rajya Sabha or Speaker of the Lok Sabha has the discretion to admit or reject the motion after due consideration.
- If the motion is admitted, a three-member committee is constituted, which includes:
- Two sitting judges of the Supreme Court or High Court.
- One distinguished jurist.
- The committee investigates the allegations of misbehaviour or incapacity, and submits a report to Parliament.
Committee’s Findings:
- If the committee finds no evidence of misbehaviour or incapacity, the motion is dismissed, and no further action is taken.
- If the committee finds the judge guilty of misbehaviour or suffering from incapacity, the report is taken up by both Houses of Parliament. A special majority is required for the motion to pass in both Houses, leading to the judge’s removal.
Current Issue with Justice Yadav:
- Controversial Remarks: Justice Yadav, a judge of the Supreme Court or High Court, reportedly made communally-charged remarks at an event organised by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad. He allegedly stated that the country should be governed according to the wishes of the majority.
- Judicial Conduct and Code of Ethics: The Supreme Court, in 1997, adopted the ‘Reinstatement of Values of Judicial Life’ document, which mandates that judges must maintain high standards of conduct and uphold impartiality. Judges are expected to conduct themselves in a manner befitting their high office, refraining from making statements that could compromise the judiciary’s credibility.
- Violation of Judicial Code of Conduct: The remarks made by Justice Yadav could be seen as a violation of this code, as it could undermine the faith in judicial impartiality. The Judges (Inquiry) Bill, 2006, while not passed, sought to include such violations under the term ‘misbehaviour’ and proposed minor corrective actions such as warnings or temporary suspension.
Requirement for Removal:
- The process of removal of judges, as stated, is intentionally stringent, to ensure that judges cannot be easily removed for political or other extraneous reasons. This is aligned with the principle of judicial independence, which is crucial for maintaining the impartiality and integrity of the judicial system.
- However, this process has often resulted in the non-removal of judges even when they have been found guilty of misconduct, primarily due to the difficulty in achieving the special majority required in Parliament.
Challenges in the Current Scenario:
- The Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, against whom a motion for removal has been filed, is unlikely to admit the current motion against Justice Yadav, given the procedural and political considerations.
- The Supreme Court has already issued a notice seeking details regarding Justice Yadav’s controversial remarks. This indicates that the Court is taking cognizance of the issue, and Justice Yadav may have to explain his actions before the Supreme Court Collegium.
- Protecting Judicial Integrity: Despite the challenges in the removal process, it remains cardinal that judges demonstrate behaviour appropriate for the constitutional office they hold. Misbehaviour or incapacity undermines public trust in the judiciary, and it is essential that the system remains robust enough to hold judges accountable without compromising judicial independence.
Conclusion:
- The procedure for the removal of judges in India is designed to balance judicial independence with accountability. While it is intentionally stringent, the necessity of protecting the integrity of the judiciary means that only in cases of proven misconduct or incapacity should a judge be removed.
- The current issue regarding Justice Yadav highlights the ongoing tension between maintaining judicial independence and ensuring accountability for actions that may tarnish the image of the judiciary.
| CARE MCQ | |
| Q5. Which of the following statements regarding the procedure for the removal of a judge of the Supreme Court or High Court in India is/are correct?
1. The removal of a judge can only occur on the grounds of “proved misbehaviour” or “incapacity.” 2. The motion for the removal of a judge must be passed by a simple majority in both Houses of Parliament. 3. The Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968, mandates the formation of a three-member committee for investigating the allegations of misbehaviour or incapacity. 4. The Chairman of the Rajya Sabha has no discretion in admitting a motion for removal. Select the correct answer using the code given below: a) 1 and 3 only |
Q. With reference to the Indian judiciary, consider the following statements: (2021)
1. Any retired judge of the Supreme Court of India can be called back to sit and act as a Supreme Court judge by the Chief Justice of India with the prior permission of the President of India. 2. A High Court in India has the power to review its own judgement as the Supreme Court does. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only Ans: (c)
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| Answer 5- A
Explanation
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