Today in History (June 28th, 1919)
On this day, The Treaty of Versailles was signed at the Palace of Versailles in France, signifying the end of World War I.
Summary of Today’s News
India needs a Uniform Civil Code, affirms Modi
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his support for a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in India. He highlighted the need for a single set of laws applicable to all citizens, rather than separate laws for different communities. The UCC is a long-debated issue in India, with proponents arguing for equality and a unified legal system, and critics expressing concerns about potential infringement on religious freedom and cultural diversity. Article 44 of the Constitution of India deals with the Uniform Civil Code.
Seven products from U.P. get GI tag
The Geographical Indications Registry in Chennai has granted Geographical Indication (GI) tags to seven products from Uttar Pradesh. These include the ‘Amroha Dholak’ (a musical instrument), ‘Mahoba Gaura Patthar Hastashlip’ (stone craft), ‘Mainpuri Tarkashi’ (brass wire inlay work), ‘Sambhal Horn Craft’, ‘Baghpat Home Furnishings’, ‘Barabanki Handloom Product’, and ‘Kalpi Handmade Paper’. Each product has unique characteristics and traditional production methods associated with specific regions in Uttar Pradesh.
The concerns about India U.S. digital trade
The current status of India-U.S. technology trade shows a trade imbalance, with the U.S. facing challenges and barriers in accessing the Indian market. While overall bilateral trade has increased, digital services have not played a significant role. U.S. tech firms, represented by the CCIA, have flagged concerns about India’s protectionist policies and discriminatory regulations, citing examples such as guidelines on sharing data and government censorship. The CCIA also highlights issues with India’s IT Rules 2021, including compliance burdens, content take-down protocols, and the establishment of Grievance Appellate Committees etc.
‘Sedition law must to retain India’s integrity’
Law Commission Chairman Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi (retd) has defended the retention of the colonial-era sedition law in India, citing the need to protect the safety and integrity of the country. He argues that existing laws like the UAPA and NSA do not cover the offense of sedition, necessitating a specific law for sedition. The 22nd Law Commission, led by Justice Awasthi, has recommended keeping Section 124A of the IPC with safeguards against misuse.
