Today in History (September 13th, 1598)
On September 13, 1598, Philip III was crowned king of Spain (and Philip II of Portugal). Known for his virtuous private life, Philip III was largely indifferent as a ruler and notorious for his extravagant spending, which further worsened Spain’s already growing economic challenges.
Summary of Today’s News
Alleged involvement in crime not a reason to bulldoze property’
The Supreme Court, led by Justice Hrishikesh Roy, ruled that alleged involvement in a crime is not a valid reason for demolishing property. The court emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law and warned against actions that “bulldoze the laws of the land.” This order came in response to a plea from Javed Ali, whose family home in Gujarat faced demolition after an FIR was filed against a family member. The court ordered a status quo on the property.
Apex court to deliver verdict on Kejriwal’s bail plea today
The Supreme Court is set to deliver its judgment on Friday regarding Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s petitions for bail and the quashing of his CBI arrest in the excise policy case. The court had reserved judgment on September 5, noting that litigants shouldn’t face unnecessary hurdles for personal liberty. Senior advocate A.M. Singhvi argued that Kejriwal, already granted bail three times in a related money laundering case, poses no flight risk and has not tampered with evidence.
What does dissolution of SCoS entail?
The Union Ministry of Statistics has dissolved the 14-member Standing Committee on Statistics (SCoS), citing overlapping responsibilities with the new 17-member Steering Committee for National Sample Surveys. SCoS members expressed concerns over census delays without a clear reason for the dissolution. The Steering Committee retains four SCoS members and shares similar responsibilities. Academics are urging for a new census, as outdated data impacts policies like the National Food Security Act. The last census was conducted in 2011, and its 2021 update was delayed due to COVID-19.
Manipur govt. lifts Internet ban partially in five districts
The Manipur government has conditionally lifted the ban on broadband Internet services in five districts of the Imphal Valley, while violence has erupted in Jiribam district. The Home Department restored services due to disruptions to essential online functions. Internet services were initially suspended on September 10 after student protests turned violent, with demands for the resolution of ethnic violence and the resignation of key officials. While mobile Internet remains suspended and curfews are enforced in three districts, 33 arrests have been made. The North East Students’ Organisation has urged Prime Minister Modi to assess the situation and form a high-level peace committee.
