Today in History (August 08th, 1974)
On August 8, 1974, U.S. President Richard M. Nixon, confronted with the near-certain prospect of impeachment due to his involvement in the Watergate scandal, announced his resignation. He was succeeded by Gerald Ford the following day.
Summary of Today’s News
An extra 100 gm crushes Vinesh’s Olympic dreams.
Wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s third Olympic bid ended in disqualification after she was found 100 grams over the weight limit during the final weigh-in. Despite defeating Japan’s Yui Susaki to reach the women’s 50-kg final, Phogat’s usual weight of 57 kg posed challenges in making the 50 kg limit. She struggled with weight management, including methods like sauna and gym sessions. Attempts by the WFI and IOA to seek an exemption from United World Wrestling were unsuccessful.
Bill removes powers of Waqf Board; non-Muslims and women on board.
The Centre proposes amending the Waqf Act, 1995, to be introduced in Parliament this week. The Bill seeks to remove the Waqf Board’s power to declare properties as Waqf, replace the Waqf Tribunal with the District Collector for property disputes, and include two Muslim women and two non-Muslim members on the board. It also proposes renaming the Act and introduces measures to prevent wrongful property declarations. The Bill has faced criticism from Muslim groups and the Opposition for potentially creating societal divides.
Declare Wayanad landslides national disaster, says Rahul
Rahul Gandhi has called on the Union government to declare the recent landslides in Wayanad, Kerala, a national disaster and provide a comprehensive rehabilitation package with increased compensation. The landslides have caused severe disruption, cutting off vital roads and resulting in significant loss of life, with estimates of over 400 casualties. The Wayanad district administration has released a draft list of 138 missing individuals and is planning temporary rehabilitation for affected families. The search for missing bodies continues with extensive efforts from multiple agencies.
Court shifts the tide on stray dog policy
The Supreme Court of India ruled against the indiscriminate killing of stray dogs in a 15-year-old case, Animal Welfare Board of India & Anr vs. People for Elimination of Stray Troubles & Ors. The Court emphasized that municipal authorities must adhere to existing legislation mandating sterilization rather than culling, in line with the ABC Rules, 2023, and PCA Act, 1960. The ruling promotes a humane approach to controlling stray dog populations, aligning with constitutional values of compassion and scientific temper.
