Today in History (May 01st, 1889)
On May 1, 1889, May Day transformed from a traditional spring celebration, typically involving dancing around a Maypole, into a recognized labour holiday. This change was initiated by the International Socialist Congress, marking a significant shift in its observance to honour the labour movement and workers’ rights.
Summary of Today’s News
Come clean on timing of Kejriwal arrest: SC to ED
The Supreme Court raised concerns over the timing of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), particularly as it occurred shortly after the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct for the Lok Sabha elections. Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta stressed the significance of safeguarding life and liberty, prompting the ED to address the circumstances surrounding Kejriwal’s arrest preceding the elections. The Supreme Court further scrutinized the evidence related to the money trail and proceeds of crime under the PMLA, noting discrepancies in Kejriwal’s statement recording and the disputed allegations regarding funds used in the Goa election campaign.
SC slams IMA chief ’s remarks about court
The Supreme Court expressed strong disapproval of remarks attributed to Indian Medical Association (IMA) president R.V. Asokan regarding the court’s criticism of private doctors’ practices. Justice Hima Kohli questioned the IMA’s authority and actions in light of Asokan’s reported comments, suggesting that the association had not upheld its reputation. The comments were brought to the court’s attention by senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi during contempt proceedings initiated by the IMA against Patanjali Ayurved, its co-founder Baba Ramdev, and his associate Acharya Balkrishna.
Implementing the Street Vendors Act
The Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, effective since May 1, 2014, represents a culmination of nearly four decades of advocacy by street vendor movements in India. Despite its hailed progressiveness, the Act encounters multiple challenges in implementation. Aimed at safeguarding and regulating street vending, it acknowledges the crucial roles vendors play in urban life and culture. Key provisions include establishing Town Vending Committees (TVCs) with vendor representation and issuing vending certificates.
Netanyahu pledges to invade Rafah ‘with or without a deal
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged to launch an incursion into the southern Gaza city of Rafah, where many Palestinians are sheltering from the almost 7-month-long war. The announcement came as ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas appear to be gaining momentum. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is scheduled to arrive in Israel to advance the truce talks, which are considered one of the most serious rounds of negotiations since the war began.
