Today in History (Apr 20th, 2010)
The Deepwater Horizon explosion was a tragic event with far-reaching environmental and economic consequences. The explosion, which occurred on April 20, 2010, resulted in the deaths of 11 workers and the sinking of the Deepwater Horizon oil rig. It also caused a massive oil spill that released millions of barrels of oil into the Gulf of Mexico over the course of several months.
Summary of Today’s News
First phase of polls records over 62% turnout.
In the first phase of the Lok Sabha election, held across 10 states and Union Territories, a voter turnout of 62.37% was recorded, marking a commendable participation despite a heatwave. Lakshadweep reported the highest turnout at 83.88%, while Bihar had the lowest at 48.88%. The election process, comprising seven phases, is scheduled to conclude on June 1, with counting on June 4.
SC assails poll-time prohibitory order
The Supreme Court scrutinized the validity of Executive Magistrates’ blanket orders prohibiting yatras, dharnas, and public meetings during the Lok Sabha elections. Justices B.R. Gavai and Sandeep Mehta expressed skepticism regarding the basis for such orders. Prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code were issued in the past six months, citing elections as grounds, with state authorities and Executive Magistrates leaving applications for permission pending indefinitely.
Forests a national asset and major contributor to Financial wealth: SC
The Supreme Court emphasized the national importance of forests in India, stating their significant contribution to the country’s financial wealth. The judgment came in response to an appeal by Telangana against a High Court decision granting forest land to a private individual, exacerbated by conflicting affidavits from the state’s forest officials. Both the state government and the private individuals were fined ₹5 lakh, and an inquiry against forest officials was ordered.
Centre asks FSSAI to initiate ‘appropriate action’ against Nestle
The Consumer Affairs Ministry urged the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to take action against Nestle for allegedly selling baby products with high sugar content in India. This action followed a report revealing that Nestle’s Cerelac products in India contained 2.7 grams of added sugar per serving, contrasting with products in other countries that lacked added sugar.
