Today in History (November 3rd, 1998)
On 3rd November 1998, a significant archaeological discovery was made in the Hui Autonomous Region of Ningxia, China. A previously unknown 15.5-mile (25-km) segment of the Great Wall of China was unveiled. This section of the Great Wall is part of the extensive wall system that spans approximately 4,500 miles (7,300 km) across China, serving as a testament to the rich history and remarkable engineering achievements of ancient China.
Summary of Today’s News
SC seeks data on donations through electoral bonds, reserves verdict on scheme.
In a recent development, the Supreme Court of India has given the Election Commission of India (EC) a two-week deadline to provide updated data on contributions received by political parties through the electoral bonds scheme, with the data expected to be submitted by September 30, 2023. A five-judge Bench led by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud is reserving judgment on the challenge to the scheme.
Kerala govt. moves Supreme Court against Governor over pending Bills
The Kerala government has filed a special leave petition before the Supreme Court, seeking a declaration that Governor Arif Mohammed Khan has “failed to exercise his Constitutional powers and duties” by holding Bills passed by the State Assembly for an extended and indefinite period. The government argues that the Governor’s actions have subverted the Constitution and have been manifestly arbitrary.
Antony Blinken, Lloyd Austin to visit New Delhi next week for ‘2+2’ dialogue
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin will visit New Delhi for a ‘2+2’ meeting with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Defense Minister Rajnath Singh. The discussions will cover both bilateral and global concerns, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. The meeting is part of a larger trip by Blinken and Austin to several countries in the region.
Fresh restrictions kick in as air quality turns ‘severe’
In response to a severe decline in air quality in Delhi, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has imposed a ban on construction and demolition activities, except for essential projects. The 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 392, categorizing the air quality as “severe.” The CAQM also banned certain vehicles and ordered the closure of stone crushers and mining activities in the National Capital Region. Furthermore, they recommended shifting to online classes for children up to Class 5.
