• The Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service, and Term of Office) Bill, 2023, was introduced in Rajya Sabha on August 10, 2023.  It repeals the Election Commission (Conditions of Service of Election Commissioners and Transaction of Business) Act, 1991.

• Election Commission: As per Article 324 of the Constitution, the Election Commission consists of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and such number of other Election Commissioners (ECs), as the President may decide.  The CEC and other ECs are appointed by the President.  The Bill specifies the same composition of the Election Commission.  It adds that the CEC and other ECs will be appointed by the President on the recommendation of a Selection Committee.

• Selection Committee: The Selection Committee will consist of (i) the Prime Minister as Chairperson, (ii) the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha as a member, and (iii) a Union Cabinet Minister nominated by the Prime Minister as a member.  If the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha has not been recognized, the leader of the single largest opposition party in Lok Sabha will assume the role.

• Search Committee: A Search Committee will prepare a panel of five persons for the consideration of the Selection Committee.  The Search Committee will be headed by the Cabinet Secretary.  It will have two other members, not below the rank of Secretary to the central government, having knowledge and experience in matters related to elections.  The Selection Committee may also consider candidates who have not been included in the panel prepared by the Search Committee.

• Qualification of CEC and ECs: Persons who are holding or have held posts equivalent to the rank of Secretary to the central government will be eligible to be appointed as CEC and ECs.   Such persons must have expertise in managing and conducting elections.

• Salary and allowances: The 1991 Act provides that the salary of the ECs will be equal to that of a Supreme Court judge.  The Bill provides that the salary, allowance, and service conditions of the CEC and other ECs will be the same as that of the Cabinet Secretary.

• Term of office: The 1991 Act mandates that the CEC and other ECs will hold office for a term of six years or until they reach the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.  If an EC is appointed as the CEC, his total term cannot exceed six years.  The Bill retains the same tenure.  Further, under the Bill, the CEC and other ECs will not be eligible for re-appointment.

• Conduct of business: All business of the Election Commission is to be conducted unanimously.  In case of a difference of opinion between the CEC and the other ECs on any matter, it shall be decided through the majority.

• Removal and resignation: Under Article 324 of the Constitution, the CEC can only be removed from his office in a manner similar to that of a Supreme Court judge.  This is done through an order of the President, based on a motion passed by both Houses of Parliament in the same session. The motion for removal must be adopted with (i) majority support of total membership of each House, and (ii) at least two-thirds support from members present and voting.  An EC can only be removed from office on the recommendation of the CEC.  The Bill retains this removal procedure.

• Further, the 1991 Act provides that the CEC and other ECs may submit their resignation to the President.  The Bill has the same provision. 

The Election Commission of India (ECI) is an autonomous constitutional authority responsible for administering election processes in India at both the national and state levels. Its primary functions are to conduct free and fair elections to the Lok Sabha (House of the People), Rajya Sabha (Council of States), State Legislative Assemblies, and State Legislative Councils. Here are some key points about the Election Commission of India:

• Constitutional Body: The Election Commission of India is a constitutional body established under Article 324 of the Indian Constitution. It was set up in 1950.
• Independence: The Election Commission is designed to be an independent and impartial body. The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and other Election Commissioners are appointed by the President of India and can only be removed through impeachment by the Parliament.
• Composition: The Election Commission consists of a Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and a maximum of two Election Commissioners, although it can function with just the CEC.
• Election Management: The ECI is responsible for overseeing all aspects of election management, including voter registration, candidate nominations, the conduct of elections, and the counting of votes.
• Electoral Rolls: It maintains and updates the electoral rolls (voter lists) for all elections in the country. Ensuring the accuracy of these rolls is essential for fair elections.
• EVMs and VVPATs: The ECI oversees the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs) to ensure transparency and accuracy in the voting process.
• Code of Conduct: It enforces the Model Code of Conduct during elections, which sets ethical standards and guidelines for political parties and candidates during the election period.
• Delimitation: The ECI is responsible for delimitation (redefining) of constituencies, which is done periodically to ensure equitable representation.
• Election Observers: The ECI appoints election observers to monitor the conduct of elections and report any violations.
• Educational Programs: It conducts voter education and awareness programs to encourage voter participation and inform citizens about the electoral process.
• Advisory Role: The ECI provides advice to the President of India and the Governors of States on matters related to disqualification of members of Parliament and State Legislatures.
• Regulatory Functions: The ECI also registers political parties and allocates symbols to them. It monitors campaign finance and enforces rules related to political donations and expenditures.
• Transparency: The ECI strives to ensure transparency, fairness, and integrity in the electoral process to uphold the principles of democracy in India.

The Election Commission plays a crucial role in the functioning of Indian democracy by ensuring that elections are conducted fairly and that the voice of the people is accurately represented in government.

4. Powers and Functions

The Election Commission of India (ECI) is vested with a wide range of powers and functions to ensure the conduct of free and fair elections in India. These powers and functions are outlined in the Indian Constitution and various election-related laws. Here are the key powers and functions of the Election Commission of India:

• Conducting Elections: The ECI is responsible for conducting elections to the Lok Sabha (House of the People), Rajya Sabha (Council of States), State Legislative Assemblies, and State Legislative Councils.
• Electoral Rolls: The ECI prepares and maintains the electoral rolls (voter lists) for all elections in India. It ensures the accuracy and completeness of these rolls.
• Delimitation: The ECI conducts delimitation exercises to define the boundaries and constituencies of electoral areas to ensure equitable representation.
• Election Schedule: It determines the schedule for elections, including the dates for filing nominations, polling, and vote counting.
• Model Code of Conduct: The ECI enforces the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) during elections, which sets ethical standards and guidelines for political parties and candidates during the election period.
• Registration of Political Parties: The ECI registers political parties and allocates symbols to them. It also monitors compliance with the rules and regulations governing political parties.
• Campaign Finance: It monitors and regulates campaign finance, including political donations, election expenditure, and the submission of audited financial reports by political parties.
• Election Observers: The ECI appoints election observers to monitor the conduct of elections, report any violations, and ensure the smooth functioning of the electoral process.
• EVMs and VVPATs: The ECI is responsible for the deployment and maintenance of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs) to ensure transparency and accuracy in the voting process.
• Voter Education: It conducts voter education and awareness programs to educate citizens about the importance of voting, the electoral process, and their voting rights.
• Disqualification of Members: The ECI advises the President of India and the Governors of States on matters related to the disqualification of members of Parliament and State Legislatures.
• Advisory Role: The ECI provides advice and recommendations to the President and Governors on various electoral matters and issues related to the election process.
• Monitoring and Enforcement: The ECI monitors political activities, party campaigns, and the conduct of elections to ensure compliance with electoral laws and regulations.
• Transparency and Accountability: It ensures transparency and accountability in the electoral process to maintain public confidence in the integrity of elections.
• Overseeing By-Elections: The ECI conducts by-elections (also known as bye-elections) to fill vacant seats in legislatures.
• Counting and Declaration of Results: The ECI oversees the counting of votes and the declaration of election results, ensuring transparency and accuracy.
• Redressal of Election-related Disputes: The ECI also plays a role in the adjudication of election disputes, along with other competent authorities.

These powers and functions empower the Election Commission of India to fulfill its crucial role in upholding the principles of democracy and ensuring that elections are conducted in a fair, transparent, and impartial manner in the world's largest democracy.

SUPREME COURT(SC) INVALIDATE ELECTORAL BONDS

 

 

1. Context

 

The unanimous decision by the Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court, written by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud (with Justices Sanjiv Khanna, B R Gavai, J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra), is a landmark decision for Indian democracy

 

2. What was the Electoral Bond Scheme?

 

An electoral bond is in the nature of a promissory note which shall be a bearer banking instrument that does not carry the name of the buyer or payee. Any citizen or company could buy these bonds in denominations of ₹1,000, ₹10,000, ₹1 lakh, ₹10 lakh, and ₹1 crore and donate it to a political party. It can be encashed only through a bank account with an authorised bank. The State Bank of India was the bank authorised to issue and encash these bonds

 

3. What changes were made to the scheme?

 

Contemporary society relies significantly on satellites, presenting them as both valuable assets and potential weaknesses. However, the effectiveness of a nuclear weapon in space is constrained by the inability to selectively target specific satellites, limiting its practical utility. Consequently, certain security experts propose that if Russia possesses nuclear capabilities in space, such weaponry would likely be reserved for use as a last resort. Alternatively, some suggest that the 'nuclear' aspect might be confined to the power source itself. The prevailing view is that Russia is more likely developing a system fueled by a nuclear source with electronic warfare capabilities upon reaching orbit, rather than a weapon equipped with a nuclear explosive warhead

4. Government's Version

 

• The government justified the scheme by emphasizing its ability to facilitate the transfer of funds to political parties through lawful banking channels, allowing individuals to support their chosen parties while discouraging unregulated cash contributions.
• The confidentiality granted to donors was presented as advantageous, fostering contributions of clean money to political parties.
• The utilization of established banking channels was asserted to diminish the influence of black money in election funding, and donor anonymity was highlighted to alleviate concerns about potential retaliation or pressure from parties to which donors had not contributed.
• In a notable argument, the government contended that citizens did not possess a general right to be informed about the financial backing of political parties.
• It asserted that the right to information was not of a broad nature but rather an evolution by courts specifically aimed at enabling voters to make informed choices in favor of the ethically sound candidate

5.Supreme Court Ruling

 

• In prior rulings, the highest court has affirmed that voters possess the right to information crucial for the effective exercise of their voting freedom.
• Consequently, the court maintained that details regarding funding to a political party are vital for a voter to express their right to vote effectively.
• The Electoral Bond Scheme, insofar as it compromises this right by anonymizing contributions through bonds, infringes upon Article 19(1)(a), which safeguards the freedom of expression.
• Regarding the objective of curbing black money, the court applied a proportionality test to assess whether the limitation on voters' right to information through donor anonymity was achieved through the least restrictive means.
• It suggested that alternatives, such as electronic transfer for small contributions and donations to an Electoral Trust for larger amounts, were available.
• Since the government failed to demonstrate that the scheme represents the least restrictive means to balance contributors' "informational privacy" and the right to information on political contributions, the amendments to the IT Act and RPA were deemed unconstitutional.
• Concerning changes to the Companies Act, the court determined that the removal of the disclosure requirement on contribution details violated the voter's right to information. Additionally, the scheme permitted both profit-making and loss-making companies to make political contributions, whereas previously, companies could only donate a percentage of their net profit.
• Given the higher risk of quid pro quo in the case of loss-making companies, the amendment was deemed arbitrarily manifest

6.Way forward

 

The electoral bonds scheme was introduced to enhance transparency, it has generated significant debates and concerns. A comprehensive way forward should focus on striking a balance between anonymity for donors and the citizens' right to know the financial sources of political parties. Transparent and accountable political funding is crucial for upholding the democratic values and integrity of the political process in India.

 

For Prelims: Electoral Bonds, SBI, Election Commission of India, Right to Know, Finance Act 2017, Prime Minister's Relief Fund For Mains: 1. Examine the challenges and controversies surrounding the Electoral Bonds Scheme, particularly regarding donor anonymity and transparency in political funding. How have these issues raised concerns about the integrity of the political process in India? (250 Words)

 

 

Previous Year Questions   Prelims 1. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2017) 1. The Election Commission of India is a five-member body. 2. Union Ministry of Home Affairs decides the election schedule for the conduct of both general elections and bye-elections. 3. Election Commission resolves the disputes relating to splits/mergers of recognised political parties. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 only          B. 2 only              C. 2 and 3 only                D. 3 only Answer: D 2. With reference to the Constitution of India, prohibitions or limitations or provisions contained in ordinary laws cannot act as prohibitions or limitations on the constitutional powers under Article 142. It could mean which one of the following? (UPSC CSE 2019) (a) The decisions taken by the Election Commission of India while discharging its duties cannot be challenged in any court of law. (b) The Supreme Court of India is not constrained in the exercise of its powers by laws made by the Parliament. (c) In the event of a grave financial crisis in the country, the President of India can declare a Financial Emergency without the counsel from the Cabinet. (d) State Legislatures cannot make laws on certain matters without the concurrence of the Union Legislature. Answer: B 3. Consider the following statements : (UPSC 2021) 1. In India, there is no law restricting the candidates from contesting in one Lok Sabha election from three constituencies. 2. In the 1991 Lok Sabha Election, Shri Devi Lal contested from three Lok Sabha constituencies. 3. As per the- existing rules, if a candidate contests in one Lok Sabha election from many constituencies, his/her party should bear the cost of bye-elections to the constituencies vacated by him/her in the event of him/her winning in all the constituencies. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 only         B. 2 only           C. 1 and 3             D. 2 and 3   4. Consider the following statements about Electoral Bond Scheme 2018: (RPSC RAS Prelims 2018) (A) The aim of this scheme is to bring about transparency in the funding process of political parties. (B) Only the political parties recognized by the Election Commission which secured not less than one per cent of the votes polled in the last general election to the House of People or the Legislative Assembly of the State shall be eligible to receive the Electoral Bonds. (C) Electoral Bonds shall be valid for fifteen calendar days from the date of issue. (D) The Electoral Bond deposited by an eligible political party in its account shall be credited on the same day. Which of the above statements are correct? 1.  Only (A) and (B)      2.  (A), (B), (C) and (D) 3. Only (B), (C) and (D) 4. Only (A), (C) and (D) Answer: 2   5. With reference to the PM CARES Fund, consider the following statements: (AFCAT 27 2022) I. The amount collected by it directly goes to the Consolidated Fund of India. II. It can avail donations from the foreign contribution and donations to fund can also avail 100% tax exemption. Which of the above statements is/are correct? A. I only            B. II only           C. Both I and II        D. Neither I nor II   Answer: B   6. The Prime Minister's National Relief Fund is operated by which one of the following bodies?  (CDS 2019) A. The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) B. The National Disaster Management Authority C. The Ministry of Finance D. The National Development Council (NDC) Answer: A Mains 1. In the light of recent controversy regarding the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVM), what are the challenges before the Election Commission of India to ensure the trustworthiness of elections in India? (UPSC 2018) 2. Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India in the light of the evolution of the Model Code of Conduct. ( UPSC 2022)

 

Source: The Hindu

 

SAVITRIBAI PHULE

 

 

1. Context

March 10 is the death anniversary of Savitribai Phule, who passed away in 1897 at the age of 66 years. Savitribai was one of the first women teachers of India, and spent her life trying to empower women through education, in the face of virulent opposition

2. Savitribai Phule (Kavya Phule, 1854)

• A Dalit woman from the Mali community, Savitribai was born on January 3, 1831, in Maharashtra’s Naigaon village.
• Married off at the tender age of 10, her husband Jyotirao Phule is said to have educated her at home. Later, Jyotirao admitted Savitribai to a teachers’ training institution in Pune.
• Throughout their life, the couple supported each other and in doing so, broke many social barriers.
• At a time when it was considered unacceptable for women to even attain education, the couple went on to open a school for girls in Bhidewada, Pune, in 1848.
• This became the country’s first girls’ school.
• A pioneer who challenged oppressive social norms in her quest for women’s education, equality, and justice, Savitribai Phule is formally recognized as India’s first woman teacher. The above poem titled Go, Get Education, is among the many Phule wrote to make a clarion call to the downtrodden to pursue education, and break free from the shackles of the caste system.

 

3. Phule’s role as a social reformer

• Phule’s work extended to many fields including the eradication of untouchability and the caste system, women's emancipation, and the reform of Hindu family life.
• Savitribai Phule started Mahila Seva Mandal in 1852, which worked for raising women’s consciousness about their human rights, the dignity of life, and other social issues.
• The first ever infanticide prohibition home of India was started by Savitribai Phule in 1853.
• They championed widow remarriage and started a home for lower and upper-caste widows in 1854.
• In September 1873, Phule, along with their followers, formed the Satyashodhak Samaj (Society of Seekers of Truth) to attain equal rights for peasants and people from lower castes.
• Savitribai Phule was the first Dalit woman, in fact, the first woman whose poems got noticed in the British Empire.
• The prestigious University of Pune was renamed Savitribai Phule Pune University in 2014.
• The Government of Maharashtra has instituted an award in her name to recognize women social reformers.

4. Savitribai's Literary Works 

• Savitribai Phule published her first Collection of poems, called Kavya Phule (Poetry's Blossoms), at the age of 23 in 1854.
• She published Bavan Kashi Subodh Ratnakar (The Ocean of Pure Gems), in 1892.
• Besides these works, Matushri Savitribai Phlenchi Bhashane VA Gaani (Savitribai Phule's speeches and songs), and her letters to her husband have also been published.

For Prelims

For Prelims: Savitribai Phule, Jyotirao Phule, Mahila Seva Mandal, Satyashodhak Samaj (Society of Seekers of Truth), Savitribai Phule Pune University, Kavya Phule (Poetry's Blossoms) and Bavan Kashi Subodh Ratnakar (The Ocean of Pure Gems).

 

 Source: The Indian Express

 

AGNI-V 

 

 

 

1. Context

 

Recently, India announced the successful testing of a new Agni-V missile, which boasts the capability of carrying multiple warheads and striking multiple targets. The noteworthy aspect of this new missile is its integration with MIRV technology.

MIRV (Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle) technology is characterized by the ability to load multiple warheads onto a single missile delivery system and program them to hit distinct targets. This advancement significantly enhances the destructive potential of the missile.

The incorporation of MIRV capability represents a substantial upgrade for India's missile systems, thereby expanding its nuclear options and bolstering its strategic capabilities.

 

2. About MIRV Technology

MIRV (Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle) technology represents a significant advancement in missile capabilities, allowing missiles to carry multiple warheads, each capable of hitting separate targets. This technology has the potential to greatly increase the destructive power of missiles and can be strategically impactful in various scenarios.

• Technology Overview: Traditional missiles carry a single warhead and hit a single target. In contrast, MIRV-equipped missiles can carry multiple warheads, which can be programmed to strike different locations or targets independently. This flexibility enables simultaneous strikes at multiple locations or a sequential attack on the same target, ensuring a more comprehensive and devastating impact.
• Historical Context: MIRV technology is not new and was developed in the 1960s, initially deployed by major nuclear powers such as the United States and the Soviet Union in the 1970s. Over time, other countries like France, the United Kingdom, China, and more recently Pakistan, have also developed and tested MIRV-equipped missiles.
• Capabilities and Complexity: The number of warheads a missile can carry depends on various factors like design, weight, size, range, and technological parameters. For instance, India's recent test showcased a missile capable of carrying three to four warheads, while some systems can carry as many as 15 warheads or more. However, the development and deployment of MIRV technology require the miniaturization of warheads, independent guidance, navigation controls, and sequential release mechanisms, making it a complex and sophisticated technological endeavour.
• Strategic Implications and Concerns: While MIRV technology offers enhanced military capabilities, it has also raised concerns among arms control advocates. There are concerns that MIRV-equipped missiles could incentivize preemptive strikes and escalate tensions, thus increasing the risks associated with nuclear weapons. Despite these concerns, MIRV-equipped missiles have not been used in any conflict situation to date.

3. Advantages of MIRV Technology

MIRV (Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle) technology offers several strategic advantages that make it a sought-after military capability worldwide. These advantages include

• Multiple Damage Infliction: The primary advantage of MIRV technology is its ability to cause multiple damages with a single strike. By carrying multiple warheads, each capable of hitting different targets independently, MIRV-equipped missiles significantly increase the destructive potential of a single missile launch.
• Penetration of Missile Defence Systems: MIRV-equipped missiles pose a challenge to missile defence systems. Traditional missile defence systems are designed to detect, track, and intercept incoming missiles. However, MIRV technology complicates this task by deploying multiple warheads with independent trajectories. This makes tracking and interception extremely difficult for defence systems, increasing the likelihood of warheads penetrating the shield and causing damage.
• Decoy Warheads and Confusion: Another advantage of MIRV technology is the ability to include decoy warheads along with actual warheads. Decoy warheads can confuse defence systems, making it harder to differentiate between real and decoy targets. This further enhances the effectiveness of MIRV-equipped missiles in bypassing missile defence systems.
• Strategic Deterrence: For countries like India, which adhere to a no-first-use policy for nuclear weapons, MIRV technology provides a crucial capability for response strikes. The ability to deliver multiple warheads with precision and cause significant damage in a response strike serves as a potent deterrence against potential aggressors. This capability can deter adversaries from initiating conflict due to the risk of facing a disproportionate and devastating response.

4. Agni Missile System Upgrade

The recent integration of MIRV (Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle) technology marks a significant upgrade for India's Agni family of ballistic missiles, developed indigenously by the DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation). The Agni missiles serve as crucial land-based delivery systems for India's nuclear arsenal.

• Development and Deployment: The Agni missile series, developed in the 1990s, includes short, medium, and intercontinental-range ballistic missiles. The first-generation Agni missiles were deployed in the armed forces in the mid-2000s. Ranging from Agni-I to Agni-IV, these missiles have varying ranges between 700 to 3,500 km and can carry single payloads weighing between 12 and 40 kilotons. The latest addition, Agni-V, equipped with MIRV technology, has a range exceeding 5,000 km and can potentially reach intercontinental distances of 5,500 km and above.
• Testing and Capabilities: Agni-V has undergone multiple tests since 2012, showcasing new features and capabilities. Its recent flight test in December 2022 highlighted its night-time capabilities and other advancements. Additionally, DRDO has been developing Agni-P missiles, modernized versions of the short-range Agni-1 and Agni-2, with expectations of integrating MIRV technology.
• Strategic Significance: The acquisition of MIRV technology by India was crucial, especially after China developed similar capabilities. With Pakistan also claiming tests with MIRV-equipped missiles, integrating MIRV into Agni missiles became imperative for India's strategic deterrence and defence capabilities. The upcoming Agni-VI missile, currently under development, is also expected to feature MIRV capabilities.
• National Announcement and Test Details: Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally announced this technological milestone, emphasizing its significance for India's defence posture. The recent test, conducted by Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha, validated the successful integration of MIRV technology. The mission achieved its designed parameters, as confirmed by DRDO through various telemetry and radar stations.

5. The Way Forward

 

By adopting forward-looking strategies, India can harness the potential of MIRV technology and other advanced missile capabilities to enhance its deterrence posture, contribute to regional stability, and safeguard national interests in an increasingly complex security environment.

 

 

For Prelims: Agni-V, MIRV technology, DRDO For Mains:  1. Discuss the strategic advantages and concerns associated with the integration of MIRV technology in ballistic missiles, with specific reference to India's recent Agni-V missile test. (250 Words)

 

 

Previous Year Questions   1. What is the range of Agni-5 ballistic missile? (MPSC Subordinate Services 2018) A. 5,000-5,500 km       B. 3,500 km       C. 7,500 km        D. 10,000 km   2. With reference to Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC 2014) 1. It is a surface-to-surface missile. 2. It is fuelled by liquid propellant only 3. It can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500 km away. Select the correct answer using the code given below. A. 1 only      B. 2 and 3 only       C. 1 and 3 only        D. 1, 2 and 3   3. MIRV stands for- (Rajasthan PTET 2011) A. Multi-directional Independently Reoriented Vehicle B. Multipurpose Integrally-targeted Revolutionary Vehicle C. Multiple Independently-targetable Re-entry Vehicle D. Multi-dimensional Independent Re-entry Vehicle   Answers: 1-A, 2-A, 3- C

 

Source: The Indian Express

LAHORE RESOLUTION 1940

 

 

 

 

 

1. Context 

 

To initiate a cautious and less risky diplomatic approach with India, Pakistan's new government plans to resume its National Day celebrations in New Delhi. This decision comes after a four-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic and strained relations between the two nations. Pakistan National Day, commemorating the adoption of the Lahore Resolution by the Muslim League on March 23, 1940, will be observed with these renewed diplomatic efforts in mind.

 

2. The Lahore Resolution of 1940

• The Lahore Resolution, formulated during the All-India Muslim League's general session held in Lahore from March 22 to March 24, 1940, marked a significant milestone in the quest for an independent state for India's Muslims.
• Although the resolution does not explicitly mention the term 'Pakistan' and has been subject to debates regarding its implications for a single or dual nation, Pakistan reveres it as a pivotal moment in its history.
• Subsequently, on March 23, 1956, Pakistan adopted its inaugural Constitution, marking the transition from the Dominion of Pakistan to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. This constitutional milestone solidified Pakistan's identity as a sovereign nation.
• Additionally, the iconic Minar-e-Pakistan, constructed between 1960 and 1968, stands as a monument at the historic site where the Lahore Resolution was passed.
• The text of the resolution is prominently engraved at the base of this monument, symbolizing the enduring legacy of Pakistan's struggle for independence.

 

3. Key Points of the Lahore Resolution (1940)

The Lahore Resolution, adopted during the All India Muslim League's session in 1940, outlined crucial principles essential for any workable and acceptable constitutional plan for India's Muslims. These principles emphasized the need for geographical regions to be demarcated into contiguous units with necessary territorial adjustments. The key points of the resolution included

1. Formation of Independent States: The resolution proposed that regions where Muslims were in a numerical majority, such as the North-Western and Eastern Zones of India, should be grouped to form "Independent States." These states were to have autonomous and sovereign constituent units.
2. Safeguards for Minorities: It emphasized the necessity of providing adequate and effective safeguards for Muslims and other minorities in regions where they were a minority. These safeguards were meant to protect their religious, cultural, economic, political, administrative, and other rights and interests, with consultations held with the respective minority communities.

The wording of the resolution, particularly mentioning "North-Western and Eastern Zones of India" and "Independent States," led to debates, especially among Bengali leaders, about whether it implied the creation of two separate states to the east and west of India. Despite this ambiguity, the Muslim League and its prominent leader, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, firmly asserted that the Lahore Resolution advocated for the establishment of two distinct countries—one for Hindus and another for Muslims.

 

4. Lead-up to the Lahore Resolution

The Lahore Resolution of 1940 was not an isolated event but a culmination of significant developments in India's political landscape during the early 20th century. Leading up to this historic resolution were several key factors:

1. Demand for Representation: Until the early 1930s, many Muslims in India were advocating for better representation and the protection of their rights within the Indian Union. The separate electorate granted to them in the Government of India Act of 1935 was seen as a step in this direction.
2. Growing Separatist Sentiments: However, as the 1930s progressed, voices calling for a complete separation from India gained strength within the Muslim community. The Lahore Resolution emerged as a response to these escalating demands for a separate Muslim state.
3. Khaksar Tragedy: The context of the Lahore Resolution session was marked by the Khaksar tragedy, where members of the Khaksar movement, fighting for India's independence, were attacked by the British on March 19, 1940, in Lahore. This incident fueled sentiments of nationalism and self-determination among Muslims.
4. Jinnah's Landmark Address: The Lahore session featured a landmark address by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, solidifying his position as the leader advocating for a separate nation for Muslims. Jinnah's speech during this event underscored the irreconcilable differences between Muslim and Hindu aspirations, laying the groundwork for the eventual creation of Pakistan.

Observance of Pakistan National Day in New Delhi

Pakistan National Day is commemorated at the Pakistan embassy complex in New Delhi, typically around March 23. The event is attended by foreign diplomats and Indian dignitaries, with a Minister or Minister of State often invited as the chief guest. The celebration includes the playing of national anthems of both Pakistan and India, followed by speeches delivered by the Pakistan High Commissioner and the chief guest, highlighting the bilateral relations and shared history between the two nations.

 

5. The way forward

 

The Lahore Resolution remains a symbol of Pakistan's struggle for independence and its commitment to safeguarding the rights and aspirations of its people, while Pakistan National Day serves as a reminder of the historical milestones that shaped the nation's identity and journey towards sovereignty.

 

 

For Prelims: Lahore Resolution, Pakistan National Day,  Government of India Act of 1935, Muslim League For Mains:  1. Discuss the significance of the Lahore Resolution of 1940 in shaping the course of India's political history. How did this resolution contribute to the eventual creation of Pakistan? (250 Words)

 

Previous Year Questions   1. Significance of Lahore Resolution (1940) of the Muslim League was (WBCS Prelims 2018) A. To cooperate with National Congress B. To create a constitution for the Muslim League C. To cooperate with the British D. Pakistan resolution was taken     2. Features of the Government of India Act 1935 are: (Rajasthan Police SI 2016) (a) The provincial autonomy (b) The establishment of Federal Court (c) The establishment of All India Federation at the Centre A. a and b       B.  b and c       C. a and c         D. a, b and c     3. The All India Muslim League was founded in 1906 at: (SSC MTS 2021)  A. Lahore          B. Bombay       C.  Lucknow         D. Dacca     4. All India Muslim League was founded in the year (MPPSC 2014) A. 1905          B. 1904        C. 1907       D. 1906   Answers: 1-D, 2-D, 3-D, 4-D

 

Source: The Indian Express