Institutional Friction and Accountability Frameworks: UPSC Current Affairs Analysis & Study Strategy

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GS-217 sub-themes · 68 news items

Key Takeaways

  • Parliamentary productivity is rising (111%-121%), but the quality of oversight is challenged by the inadmissibility of questions on funds like PM CARES.
  • The Governor's 'customary address' (Art 176) is no longer a mere formality, becoming a site for federal-state friction.
  • Judicial accountability is being pursued via legislative bills (Monsoon 2025) and public constitutional critique by high-ranking executive officials.
  • Fiscal federalism is under stress, with CAG flagging that state debt now accounts for 23% of GSDP.

In-Depth Analysis

The Big Picture

The 2025-2026 period is characterized by a systemic stress-test of India's constitutional checks and balances. We see a three-way friction involving the Executive’s push for accountability in the Judiciary (VP Dhankhar's critique), the Parliament's evolving oversight of the Executive (PAC/JPC activities), and the Governors' assertive role in state legislative processes. This represents a shift from collaborative governance to an era of 'adversarial constitutionalism'.

Cross-Theme Insight

When viewed together, these threads reveal that 'accountability' has become the primary site of political contestation. While the CAG flags fiscal mismanagement and debt (Threads 3 & 16) to ensure financial accountability, the Parliament is simultaneously debating bills to remove high-ranking officials (Threads 8 & 11) and amending the Tenth Schedule (Thread 10). Collectively, these actions suggest a move toward refining the 'removal and discipline' mechanisms for every organ of the state—Judiciary, Executive, and Legislature.

Textbook vs Reality Gap

Static textbooks describe the Governor's address under Article 176 as a 'customary' and formal duty where they act as the mouthpiece of the Council of Ministers (Laxmikanth, 7th ed., p. 321). However, the 2026 reality of Governors in Kerala and Tamil Nadu performing walkouts and 'skipping paragraphs' (Thread 2) challenges the D.D. Basu (26th ed., p. 274) definition of 'discretionary powers', suggesting a new unwritten convention of 'active dissent' by constitutional heads.

How This Theme Is Evolving

The theme has evolved from mere procedural compliance to active institutional diplomacy, as seen in the focus on 'Ethical AI' and 'Social Media Governance' at the AIPOC and CSPOC conferences (Thread 9). The trajectory suggests that parliamentary reform is no longer just internal but is being aligned with global digital standards and diplomatic exchanges.

UPSC Exam Intelligence

Previous Year Question Pattern

Traditionally, UPSC has focused on the static procedures of the Speaker (CAPF 2020, nid: 11317) and the composition of the PAC (CAPF 2020, nid: 11318). However, recent patterns show a shift toward testing 'limitations' on power, such as the Governor's discretion (IAS 2025, nid: 6293) and the CAG's role in investigating projects (IAS 2012, nid: 14985). The 2025-26 items on removal of ministers and VP's remarks on Art 142 suggest a future focus on the 'Separation of Powers' and 'Judicial Overreach'.

Probable Prelims Angles

  • The Speaker does not vacate office on dissolution of Lok Sabha until immediately before the first meeting of the new House (Article 94).
  • Notice for removal of Speaker requires 14 days and support of at least 50 members to be moved.
  • CAG's annual entitlement for MPLADS is â‚ą5 crore; unused funds can be carried forward, contrary to popular belief (IAS 2020, nid: 5934).
  • Public Accounts Committee (PAC) consists of 22 members (15 LS, 7 RS) and is always headed by an Opposition member by convention.
  • The JPC (Joint Parliamentary Committee) has 31 members (21 LS, 10 RS) for specific inquiries (2025 appointment of Aparajita Sarangi).

Mains Answer Framework

  • The vibrancy of Indian democracy is increasingly defined by the creative tension between its constitutional institutions, moving beyond the traditional separation of powers toward a system of 'competitive accountability'.
  • The Governor's role as a bridge between the Center and States is being strained by divergent political mandates, leading to frequent walkouts and procedural delays.. Financial oversight is being bolstered by CAG’s expanded audit of autonomous bodies and states' fiscal stress, yet legislative follow-up in the PAC remains the weak link.. The Executive-Judiciary friction, exemplified by the Vice-President’s remarks on Article 142, underscores the debate on whether the 'Basic Structure' doctrine has limited parliamentary sovereignty.
  • Strengthening parliamentary committees and codifying the limits of discretionary powers for constitutional heads is essential to transition from institutional friction to institutional synergy.

Essay Connections

  • Judicial Activism vs. Legislative Sovereignty: Use VP Dhankhar’s critique of Article 142 and the NJAC debate as a case study for the evolution of the 'Basic Structure' doctrine.
  • Federalism in the 21st Century: Use the CAG reports on state debt and Governor-Legislature conflicts to discuss the 'fiscal and political' stressors on Indian federalism.

Preparation Strategy

Reading Approach

Begin with Laxmikanth Chapter 23-24 to build the institutional framework of Parliament and Committees. Follow this with Chapter 30 for the Governor's role. Finally, apply these concepts to the 2025 current affairs threads to understand how 'discretion' and 'oversight' are being redefined in practice.

Textbook Roadmap

  • Laxmikanth, M. Indian Polity (7th ed.) > Chapter 23: Parliament > Speaker of Lok Sabha. Threads 1, 8, and 9 for Speaker's removal and role in conferences.. Election, tenure, and removal process of the Speaker (Articles 93-96).
  • Laxmikanth, M. Indian Polity (7th ed.) > Chapter 30: Governor > Constitutional Position. Thread 2 regarding walkouts and discretionary powers.. Articles 153 to 167 and 174-176 (Special Address).
  • D.D. Basu (26th ed.) > Chapter 22: The Supreme Court > Article 142. Thread 5 and 7 for VP Dhankhar’s critique.. The scope of 'complete justice' and plenary powers of the SC.

Revision Bullets

  • Article 87: President's special address to both houses at the first session after each general election.
  • MPLADS: â‚ą5 crore/year, non-lapsable funds, 1993 inception.
  • Speaker Removal: Effective Majority (majority of all 'then' members).
  • JPC Composition: 31 members (21 from Lok Sabha, 10 from Rajya Sabha).
  • Article 142: Supreme Court's power to pass orders for 'complete justice', often criticized as judicial overreach.
  • 10th Schedule: Private Member's Bill (Dec 2025) proposed losing seat only on violation of whip during Confidence Motions.
  • States' Debt: Tripled in a decade (â‚ą17.57L Cr in 2014 to â‚ą59.60L Cr in 2023 per CAG).

Sub-Themes and News Coverage (17 themes, 69 news items)

Parliamentary Sessions and Procedural Functioning

Focus: Items tracking the scheduling, productivity, and procedural rules of Parliament sessions and the conduct of its officers.

UPSC Value: Useful for understanding the practical application of Articles 85, 87, and parliamentary procedure (Question Hour, Motions).

7 news items in this theme:

  • 2026-02-10 [Polity & Governance] — Lok Sabha Speaker Removal Process
    Opposition parties are considering a no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, alleging partisan conduct. The Constitution mandates a 14-day notice for such a resolution, requiring support from at least 50 members, and removal necessitates an effective majority, where the majority is based on the total strength of the house minus any vacant seats. When a resolution for the removal of the speaker is under consideration, the speaker can be present in the House and vote but cannot preside over it.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Lok Sabha Speaker removal process and constitutional mandates.

    Key Facts:

    • Opposition parties (INDIA bloc) are considering a no-confidence / removal motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.
    • Accusations include partisan conduct, denial of speaking opportunities, suspension of MPs, and ignoring complaints.
    • Article 93 states Lok Sabha must have a Speaker and Deputy Speaker elected by the House.
    • Article 94 provides for vacation of office, resignation, and removal.
    • Removal requires a resolution passed by a majority of all the then members of Lok Sabha.
    • 14 days' notice is mandatory before moving the resolution.
    • 50 members of Lok Sabha must support the resolution to introduce it.
    • The Speaker can be present and vote but not preside when their removal is being considered.
  • 2026-02-06 [Polity & Governance] — Motion of Thanks Adopted by Rajya Sabha
    The Rajya Sabha adopted the Motion of Thanks to President Droupadi Murmu for her Address to the Joint Session of Parliament. Article 87 of the Indian Constitution mandates a Special Address by the President to both Houses of Parliament at the commencement of the first session after each general election and at the start of the first session of each year. The President outlines the government's policies and programmes in the preceding and ensuing year, which is then discussed in both Houses.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Article 87 mandates President's Special Address to the Joint Session.

    Key Facts:

    • Article 87 of the Indian Constitution mandates a Special Address by the President
    • The address is discussed in both Houses of Parliament on a motion called the 'Motion of Thanks'
    • The motion must be passed, otherwise, it amounts to the defeat of the government
  • 2026-01-09 [Polity & Governance] — Budget session from January 28; Union Budget on February 1
    The Budget session of Parliament is likely to commence on January 28, and the Union Budget is set to be tabled on February 1. President Droupadi Murmu will address a joint sitting of the two Houses on January 28.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Budget session from January 28; Union Budget on February 1.

    Key Facts:

    • Budget session of Parliament is likely to commence on January 28.
    • Union Budget is set to be tabled on February 1.
    • President Droupadi Murmu will address a joint sitting of the two Houses on January 28.
  • 2025-12-20 [Polity & Governance] — Parliament Winter Session Concludes with High Productivity
    The Winter Session of Parliament concluded with high productivity, with the Lok Sabha recording 111% and the Rajya Sabha 121% productivity. The Lok Sabha passed 8 Bills and introduced 10, while the Rajya Sabha passed 8 Bills and adopted a Statutory Resolution on the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Act, 2024.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Parliament Winter Session productivity: Lok Sabha 111%, Rajya Sabha 121%.

    Key Facts:

    • Lok Sabha productivity: 111%
    • Rajya Sabha productivity: 121%
    • Lok Sabha passed 8 Bills and introduced 10
    • Rajya Sabha passed 8 Bills and adopted a Statutory Resolution on the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Act, 2024
  • 2025-06-04 [Polity & Governance] — Monsoon Session of Parliament
    The Monsoon Session of Parliament will be held from July 21 to August 12. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has sent a proposal to the President of India to summon the House.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Monsoon Session dates are relevant for parliamentary proceedings.

    Key Facts:

    • Dates: July 21 to August 12
    • Proposal sent to President of India to summon the House
  • 2025-05-03 [Polity & Governance] — Weakening Parliamentary Oversight in India
    India's parliamentary oversight is weakening due to disruptions, underutilised committees, and the absence of post-legislative review. The 17th Lok Sabha (2019–24) saw Question Hour functionality at only 60% in the Lok Sabha and 52% in the Rajya Sabha. Despite Standing Committees generating detailed reports, these are rarely debated in the full House, and membership rotation reduces domain expertise.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Weakening parliamentary oversight in India due to disruptions.

    Key Facts:

    • 17th Lok Sabha Question Hour functionality: 60% (Lok Sabha), 52% (Rajya Sabha)
    • Standing Committees' reports rarely debated in full House
    • Membership rotation in committees reduces domain expertise
  • 2025-03-01 [Polity & Governance] — Parliament and State Legislature Sessions
    Article 85 & 174 ensured that the gap between two parliamentary or state legislative sessions does not exceed six months. Article 87 and 176 now require the President/Governor's address to the legislature only once after each general election and at the beginning of the first session each year.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Articles 85, 174, 87, and 176 related to legislative sessions.

    Key Facts:

    • Article 85 & 174: Max 6-month gap between legislative sessions
    • Article 87 & 176: President/Governor's address requirements

Judicial Accountability and Discipline Mechanisms

Focus: Items focusing on the mechanisms and specific instances of holding judges accountable, including impeachment proceedings, internal censure, and asset disclosure.

UPSC Value: Useful for understanding the balance between judicial independence and accountability (Article 124, 217, Judges Inquiry Act).

6 news items in this theme:

  • 2026-01-22 [Polity & Governance] — Judicial Removal Process in India
    The current framework for judicial removal strikes a delicate but flawed balance between judicial independence and accountability. The law grants the Speaker absolute discretion to kill a motion at the threshold, creating a loophole that can be exploited for political ends. Statutory Clarification is needed to amend the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968 to specify objective conditions for admission/disallowance, mandate written reasons for rejection, and ensure transparency safeguards.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Judicial removal process in India.

    Key Facts:

    • Judicial removal is provided under Article 124(4) & (5) for Supreme Court judges and Articles 217(1)(b) & 218 for High Court judges.
    • Grounds for removal: “Proved misbehaviour or incapacity”.
    • Procedure is regulated by the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968.
  • 2025-08-10 [Polity & Governance] — SC vs. HC: 'Master of Roster' Powers
    The Supreme Court (SC) recently censured an Allahabad High Court (HC) judge, sparking debate on the extent of the SC's intervention in High Courts' internal functions, particularly concerning the 'Master of Roster' powers held by the Chief Justice. The issue raises constitutional questions about judicial independence and the SC's authority under Articles 141 and 142. The SC later modified its order, clarifying it did not intend to challenge 'Master of Roster' powers.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: SC censures HC judge, debate on 'Master of Roster' powers.

    Key Facts:

    • SC censured an Allahabad HC judge
    • Debate over SC intervention in HC's internal functioning
    • Issue involves 'Master of Roster' powers of HC Chief Justice
    • Constitutional questions raised under Articles 141 and 142
    • SC modified order after concerns from HC lawyers and CJI
    • 'Master of Roster' gives CJ exclusive authority to constitute benches and allocate cases
    • Landmark judgments: State of Rajasthan vs. Prakash Chand (1998), State of Rajasthan vs. Devi Dayal (1959), Mayavaram Financial Corporation (Madras HC, 1991)
    • Article 141: SC's declared law is binding on all courts in India
  • 2025-07-20 [Polity & Governance] — Discussion on Impeachment of Judges
    News articles discussed the impeachment of Justice WMA, and the removal procedure for High Court and Supreme Court judges, and the constitutional provisions regarding this.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Discussion on impeachment of judges and constitutional provisions.

    Key Facts:

    • Impeachment process for removing Justice WMA
    • Discussed removal procedure for High Court and Supreme Court judges
    • Relevant constitutional provisions
  • 2025-07-04 [Polity & Governance] — Removal Motion Against High Court Judge
    A motion for the removal of a High Court judge is initiated in either House of Parliament on grounds of “proved misbehavior or incapacity”. It requires a minimum of 100 MPs in the Lok Sabha or 50 MPs in the Rajya Sabha to admit the motion.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Motion for removal of High Court judge requires parliamentary support.

    Key Facts:

    • High Court judge removal
    • Article 217
    • Article 124(4)
    • 100 MPs in Lok Sabha or 50 MPs in Rajya Sabha
  • 2025-06-06 [Polity & Governance] — Possible Impeachment Motion Against Justice Yashwant Varma
    The government is planning to bring an impeachment motion in the monsoon session of the parliament against Justice Yashwant Varma, a judge of Allahabad High Court, after a large amount of undocumented cash was found in his residence following a fire. An in-house inquiry committee recommended the impeachment procedure, and the current chief justice wrote to the Prime Minister and President of India asking them to take necessary action.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Possible impeachment motion against Justice Yashwant Varma.

    Key Facts:

    • The impeachment of judges in India is governed by article 124 of Indian constitution and Judges Inquiry Act of 1968.
  • 2025-05-07 [Polity & Governance] — Supreme Court Judges Disclose Assets
    Twenty-one Supreme Court judges, including the Chief Justice of India, have disclosed their financial assets and liabilities on the top court's website. Unlike elected representatives or civil servants, judges are not legally mandated to publicly declare their assets.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Supreme Court judges disclosing assets: Transparency and accountability.

    Key Facts:

    • Twenty-one Supreme Court judges disclosed financial assets
    • Judges are not legally mandated to declare assets

Indian Parliamentary Business & Reforms (2025)

Focus: Procedural events within the Indian Parliament, including session scheduling, committee extensions, voting training, and legislative bills.

UPSC Value: Provides a snapshot of the legislative agenda and procedural functioning of the Parliament in 2025.

5 news items in this theme:

  • 2026-02-19 [Polity & Governance] — Kurian Joseph Committee Suggests Federal Reforms
    The Kurian Joseph Committee suggests federal reforms including limiting the Election Commission of India to Union elections and entrusting State Legislature elections to independent State Election Commissions. It calls for withdrawal of the Constitution One Hundred and Twenty-ninth Amendment Bill, 2024, which proposes simultaneous elections, terming it harmful to federal balance and legislative accountability. The Committee also recommends replacing the Three-Language Formula with high proficiency bilingualism centered on English and the regional language.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Kurian Joseph Committee: Recommendations on federal reforms and ECI powers.

    Key Facts:

    • The Committee recommends limiting the Election Commission of India to Union elections and entrusting State Legislature elections to independent State Election Commissions.
    • It calls for withdrawal of the Constitution One Hundred and Twenty-ninth Amendment Bill, 2024, which proposes simultaneous elections.
    • The Committee also recommends replacing the Three-Language Formula with high proficiency bilingualism centered on English and the regional language.
  • 2025-12-09 [Polity & Governance] — Amendment to Tenth Schedule Bill in Lok Sabha
    A private member's bill titled “The Constitution (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (Amendment of the Tenth Schedule)” has been introduced in Lok Sabha. The bill prescribes that a member will lose their seat only if they vote, or abstain from voting, in violation of their party's direction on a Confidence Motion, No-confidence Motion, Adjournment Motion, Money Bill, or other financial matters.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Amendment to Tenth Schedule Bill introduced in Lok Sabha.

    Key Facts:

    • Bill titled “The Constitution (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (Amendment of the Tenth Schedule)” introduced in Lok Sabha
    • Tenth Schedule added by the Constitution (Fifty-second Amendment) Act, 1985
    • Defection applicable on Confidence Motion, No-confidence Motion, Adjournment Motion, Money Bill, or other financial matters
  • 2025-09-08 [Polity & Governance] — NDA and INDIA blocs training MPs on voting procedure for Vice-President election
    The NDA and INDIA blocs are preparing to train their MPs on the voting procedure ahead of the Vice-President election. The NDA held a two-day workshop, Sansad Karyashala, which began on September 7, 2025, while the INDIA bloc will conduct a mock polling session on September 8.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

    Key Facts:

    • NDA
    • INDIA bloc
    • Vice-President election
    • Sansad Karyashala
    • September 7, 2025
    • New Delhi
    • September 8
  • 2025-07-03 [Polity & Governance] — All-Party Meeting Called Ahead of Monsoon Parliament Session
    The central government has called an all-party meeting on July 19th regarding the monsoon session of Parliament. The monsoon session will start on July 21st and run until August 21st, according to Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: All-party meeting called ahead of monsoon Parliament session.

    Key Facts:

    • All-party meeting on July 19
    • Monsoon session of Parliament starts July 21
    • Monsoon session of Parliament ends August 21
    • Kiren Rijiju, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister
  • 2025-03-26 [Polity & Governance] — Extension of Joint House Panel on One Nation, One Poll
    The Lok Sabha approved the motion to extend the tenure of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on 'One Nation, One Election' up to the first day of the last week of the Monsoon Session, 2025.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: JPC on 'One Nation, One Election' tenure extended.

    Key Facts:

    • Tenure of JPC on 'One Nation, One Election' extended to the first day of the last week of the Monsoon Session, 2025

Public Discourse and Political Utility of Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar's Tenure

Focus: The items document the specific governance-related commentary, constitutional philosophy, and the political aftermath of Jagdeep Dhankhar's tenure as Vice-President, including his resignation and the subsequent utilization of his remarks by political actors.

UPSC Value: Analyzes the role of constitutional heads in shaping national discourse and the political implications of their public commentary on governance and democratic institutions.

5 news items in this theme:

  • 2025-08-07 [Polity & Governance] — Opposition Cites Dhankhar's Remarks to Counter Govt.
    The opposition cited remarks made by Vice-President Dhankhar to counter the government.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

    Key Facts:

    • Opposition used VP Dhankhar's remarks against the government.
  • 2025-07-23 [Polity & Governance] — Vice-Presidential Poll Preparations Begin
    The Election Commission of India (ECI) has initiated the process for holding the vice-presidential election, which includes constituting the electoral college comprising Members of Parliament from both houses and finalizing Returning Officers. The announcement of the election schedule will follow upon completion of preparatory activities. Jagdeep Dhankhar's abrupt resignation as the Vice-President of India, citing health grounds, has spurred the election process.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: ECI initiates vice-presidential election process; electoral college composition.

    Key Facts:

    • Election Commission of India (ECI) initiated vice-presidential election process
    • Electoral college will comprise MPs from both Houses of Parliament
    • Returning Officers are being finalized
    • Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned as Vice-President of India
  • 2025-04-23 [Polity & Governance] — Vice President Stresses Citizen Supremacy in Democracy
    The Vice-President of India emphasized the vital role of citizens in strengthening democracy during the 'Kartavyam' event by Rambhau Mhalgi Prabodhini, highlighting the supremacy of Parliament and ethical responsibilities. He opposed the notion of constitutional offices being merely ornamental, stressing the importance of every citizen and functionary.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Vice President stresses citizen supremacy in democracy.

    Key Facts:

    • VP strongly opposed the idea that constitutional offices are ceremonial or ornamental.
    • Emphasized that every citizen and every constitutional functionary plays a vital role in the democratic framework.
  • 2025-03-07 [Polity & Governance] — Vice-President Calls for Debate on 'Emocracy'
    The Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, called for a national debate on the shift from democracy to 'Emocracy,' stating that emotion-driven policies and debates threaten good governance. He cautioned that populism can lead to bad economics and that policies should prioritize the lasting good of the people.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Debate on 'Emocracy' and its impact on good governance.

  • 2025-03-03 [Polity & Governance] — Vice-President Dhankhar highlights challenges facing India
    Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar has stated that India is currently dealing with numerous serious challenges, implying economic difficulties, social unrest, and external threats as major issues. He emphasized the importance of unity, resilience, and strategic planning to overcome current adversities.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

    Key Facts:

    • Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar
    • India facing serious challenges
    • Economic difficulties, social unrest, and external threats implied
    • Importance of national unity, resilience, and strategic planning
    • Economic difficulties
    • Social unrest
    • External threats
    • National unity, resilience, and strategic planning
    • India is facing economic difficulties
    • India is facing social unrest
    • India is facing external threats
    • Importance of national unity
    • Importance of resilience
    • Importance of strategic planning
    • Importance of cooperative effort
    • Importance of adaptive measures

Vice-President Dhankhar's Campaign for Judicial Accountability

Focus: A specific pattern of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar publicly criticizing the judiciary on various fronts, including the collegium system (NJAC), Article 142, and judicial immunity.

UPSC Value: Critical for GS-2 (Separation of Powers), illustrating a period of heightened Executive-Judiciary friction and debates on judicial overreach and accountability.

5 news items in this theme:

  • 2025-06-21 [Polity & Governance] — Vice President Dhankhar Criticizes Emergency Era Verdict
    Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar stated that the Supreme Court's emergency-era judgment was the darkest in judicial history, effectively legitimizing dictatorship and authoritarianism.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Vice President Dhankhar criticizes Emergency Era Verdict.

    Key Facts:

    • Supreme Court's emergency-era judgment was the darkest in judicial history
    • Judgment effectively legitimized dictatorship and authoritarianism
  • 2025-05-22 [Polity & Governance] — Discussion on Justice Yashwant Verma Case
    The Indian Express analyzed the case of Justice Yashwant Verma, whose residence caught fire revealing unaccounted cash, raising questions about judges facing FIRs. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar criticized the in-house inquiry process used for judges' conduct as lacking constitutional backing.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

    Key Facts:

    • Justice Yashwant Verma case involved unaccounted cash found after a fire.
    • VP Dhankhar criticized the in-house inquiry process for judges.
    • In-house inquiry was established in 1999 by the Supreme Court.
  • 2025-05-20 [Polity & Governance] — Veeraswami vs Union of India judgment needs revisiting: Vice-President
    Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar stated in New Delhi on May 19, 2025, that the 1991 Supreme Court judgment in K. Veeraswami vs Union of India and Others should be revisited. The judgment addressed whether the Prevention of Corruption Act applied to higher court judges. Dhankhar termed the 1991 judgment a “judicial legerdemain” and stated that it was the genesis of corruption issues in the judiciary.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: VP calls for revisiting K. Veeraswami vs Union of India judgment.

    Key Facts:

    • K. Veeraswami vs Union of India and Others
    • Jagdeep Dhankhar
    • New Delhi
    • May 19, 2025
    • 1991 Supreme Court judgment
    • Prevention of Corruption Act
  • 2025-04-19 [Polity & Governance] — Opposition criticizes VP Dhankhar's remarks against Supreme Court
    Opposition parties have criticized Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar's remarks against Article 142 of the Constitution, which grants plenary powers to the Supreme Court. Former Law Minister Kapil Sibal expressed concerns over the political nature of the Rajya Sabha Chairman's statements, emphasizing the importance of non-partisanship.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Opposition criticizes VP's remarks against Article 142 (SC plenary powers).

    Key Facts:

    • VP: Jagdeep Dhankhar
    • Article: 142
    • Remarks: Judiciary acting like a 'Super Parliament'
    • Empowers: Supreme Court to pass orders for complete justice
    • Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar
    • Article 142 of the Constitution
    • Kapil Sibal
    • Rajya Sabha
    • Supreme Court
  • 2025-03-25 [Polity & Governance] — Supreme Court panel at judge home, Jagdeep Dhankhar revives NJAC debate
    Amidst a corruption row involving Delhi High Court Judge Justice Yashwant Varma, the Allahabad High Court Bar Association has demanded a review of all judgments delivered by him during his tenure. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has discussed the need for judicial accountability and has revived the debate on the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC).
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

    Key Facts:

    • Justice Yashwant Varma: Delhi High Court Judge transferred to Allahabad High Court
    • Jagdeep Dhankhar: Vice President
    • NJAC: National Judicial Appointments Commission

Parliamentary Oversight and Financial Accountability

Focus: Items highlighting the mechanisms, limitations, and controversies regarding the role of Parliament (MPs, Committees, Question Hour) in scrutinizing public funds and schemes.

UPSC Value: Examines the practical application of Parliamentary Control over Finance, touching on separation of powers, the admissibility of questions, and the efficacy of Standing Committees.

4 news items in this theme:

  • 2026-02-09 [Polity & Governance] — PMO Clarifies Admissibility of Questions on PM CARES Fund
    The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) has informed the Lok Sabha Secretariat that parliamentary questions and discussions related to the PM CARES Fund, Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF), and the National Defence Fund (NDF) are not admissible under the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha because the corpus of these funds is constituted entirely with voluntary public contribution and not from any allocation out of the Consolidated Fund of India.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: PMO clarifies admissibility of questions on PM CARES Fund.

    Key Facts:

    • Parliamentary questions/discussions related to PM CARES Fund, PMNRF, and NDF are not admissible in Lok Sabha
    • Corpus of these funds is from voluntary public contributions
    • Not from any allocation out of the Consolidated Fund of India
    • PM CARES was set up in 2020, following the Covid outbreak
    • Registered as a Public Charitable Trust
  • 2026-02-04 [Polity & Governance] — MPLADS Funds: Controversy and Relevance
    A controversy erupted over alleged misuse of MPLADS funds, leading to critics demanding the scheme's discontinuation. Introduced in 1993, the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) enables MPs to recommend works worth â‚ą5 crore annually to address locally felt development needs. Critics argue the scheme breaches the separation of powers and raises federalism concerns.
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    UPSC Angle: Controversy erupted over alleged misuse of MPLADS funds.

    Key Facts:

    • Scheme: MPLADS
    • Issue: Misuse of funds
    • Critic: 2nd Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC)
    • Scheme: Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS)
    • Year introduced: 1993
    • Annual amount: â‚ą5 crore
    • Criticism: Misuse of funds
    • Criticism: Breach of separation of powers
    • Criticism: Federalism concerns
  • 2025-05-23 [Polity & Governance] — MPs Flag Irregularities in Jal Jeevan Mission
    Several Members of Parliament (MPs) have called for an investigation into alleged irregularities in the implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission, including inflated contracts and cost overruns. The mission also faces challenges like a lack of dependable water sources, groundwater contamination, and delays in obtaining statutory clearances.
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    UPSC Angle: MPs flag irregularities in Jal Jeevan Mission implementation.

    Key Facts:

    • Jal Jeevan Mission
    • Irregularities in implementation
    • Inflated contracts
    • Cost overruns
    • MPs call for investigation into Jal Jeevan Mission irregularities
    • Allegations include inflated contracts and cost overruns
    • Challenges: lack of dependable water sources, groundwater contamination, delays in clearances
  • 2025-03-15 [Polity & Governance] — Parliamentary Standing Committee on Water Resources Report
    A report by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Water Resources indicates that 40% of allocated funds remain unspent, delaying critical water projects. The 2025-26 allocation rose to â‚ą25,276.83 crore (+18.54%) to boost groundwater management, river basin development, and the Polavaram Irrigation Project. The National Hydrology Project's budget dropped by 98%, and the Command Area Development scheme was cut by 39.28% due to low expenditure.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Parliamentary panel reports 40% of water project funds unspent.

    Key Facts:

    • Unspent funds: 40%
    • 2025-26 allocation: â‚ą25,276.83 crore (+18.54%)
    • National Hydrology Project budget drop: 98%
    • Command Area Development scheme cut: 39.28%
    • Vacant posts: 209 out of 415

CAG Audits on Fiscal Mismanagement

Focus: Reports by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) specifically highlighting under-utilization of funds, fiscal stress, or non-transfer of levies by both State and Central governments.

UPSC Value: Useful for studying fiscal federalism and the role of CAG in ensuring financial accountability.

4 news items in this theme:

  • 2026-01-07 [Economy] — CAG Flags States' Fiscal Stress in FY24
    The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) reported that states began FY24 with strong revenue inflows but faced increasing fiscal strain by the end of the year. States' own tax revenue constituted the largest component (50%) of total revenue receipts, followed by the share in Union taxes (nearly 30%). Dependence on grants has declined over the past decade.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: CAG reports states faced increasing fiscal strain by the end of FY24.

    Key Facts:

    • Total revenue receipts of states were at â‚ą37.93 lakh crore in FY24
    • States' own tax revenue formed the largest component at about 50%
    • Share in Union taxes at nearly 30%
    • Grants-in-aid at around 12%
    • Non-tax revenue at just over 8%
    • Total revenue receipts of states were at â‚ą37.93 lakh crore in FY24.
    • States' own tax revenue formed about 50% of the total.
    • Share in Union taxes was nearly 30%.
    • Grants-in-aid were around 12%.
    • Non-tax revenue was just over 8%.
  • 2026-01-06 [Economy] — CAG Report on State Finances 2023-24
    A recent CAG report indicates that the total outstanding public debt of states is consistently increasing, but the debt to state GDP ratio, after increasing to 25% after Covid, has decreased to 23%.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: CAG report: State debt to GDP ratio decreased to 23%.

    Key Facts:

    • Total outstanding public debt of the state is consistently increasing
    • Debt to the GDP ratio increased to 25% after COVID
    • Debt to the GDP ratio decreased to 23%
  • 2025-08-13 [Economy] — CAG Report on Cess Collections
    In its report tabled in Parliament, the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) found the Centre had failed to transfer â‚ą3.69 lakh crore worth of cess collections to the relevant funds for which they were levied.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: CAG report: Centre failed to transfer cess collections to relevant funds.

    Key Facts:

    • â‚ą3.69 lakh crore worth of cess collections not transferred
  • 2025-03-01 [Polity & Governance] — Delhi's COVID Fund Usage
    A Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report presented in the Delhi Assembly on February 28, 2025, revealed that the Delhi government utilized less than 75% of the funds released by the Centre to manage the COVID-19 pandemic in the capital.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Delhi government utilized less than 75% of COVID funds.

    Key Facts:

    • Delhi
    • February 28, 2025
    • Comptroller and Auditor General
    • COVID-19
    • 75%

Parliamentary Oversight and the Public Accounts Committee (PAC)

Focus: The role, functions, and specific investigative interventions of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in ensuring executive accountability across various sectors like aviation, infrastructure, and social welfare.

UPSC Value: Illustrates the practical application of parliamentary oversight mechanisms and the role of the PAC in scrutinizing government expenditure and performance.

4 news items in this theme:

  • 2025-12-21 [Polity & Governance] — PAC Seeks Reports on Flight Crisis
    The Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC), led by K.C. Venugopal, directed the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and other stakeholders to submit reports on the recent flight crisis during a meeting in Chennai.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: PAC seeks reports on flight crisis from DGCA and stakeholders.

    Key Facts:

    • Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC)
    • K.C. Venugopal
    • DGCA
    • Flight crisis
    • Chennai
  • 2025-08-13 [Economy] — Public Accounts Committee Urges Review of Highway Tolls
    The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has submitted a report to Parliament recommending reducing or eliminating tolls on National Highways once the initial capital and maintenance costs are recovered. The PAC raised concerns about the continuation of toll collection in perpetuity.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Public Accounts Committee urges review of highway tolls.

    Key Facts:

    • PAC, headed by K.C. Venugopal, submitted the report
    • Recommends reducing or eliminating tolls on National Highways after the recovery of initial capital and maintenance costs
  • 2025-07-18 [Polity & Governance] — PAC calls for review of Aadhaar biometric verification.
    The Parliament's Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has urged a review of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) due to concerns about the high failure rate of Aadhaar biometric verification. The committee is worried that this failure rate could exclude many beneficiaries from accessing social welfare schemes.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: PAC calls for review of Aadhaar biometric verification failure rate.

    Key Facts:

    • Parliament's Public Accounts Committee has called for a review of the functioning of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI).
    • A high rate of failure of Aadhaar biometric verification can lead to many beneficiaries being excluded from social welfare schemes.
  • 2025-03-19 [Polity & Governance] — Public Accounts Committee (PAC)
    The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) scrutinizes government accounts and C&AG reports to review the legality, authority, and prudence of expenditure, ensuring appropriations are spent for the approved purpose. Established in 1921, it has 22 members (15 from Lok Sabha, 7 from Rajya Sabha), elected annually, with the Chairperson traditionally from the Opposition since 1967-68.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Public Accounts Committee (PAC) scrutinizes government accounts.

    Key Facts:

    • PAC scrutinizes government accounts and C&AG reports
    • Established in 1921
    • 22 members (15 from Lok Sabha, 7 from Rajya Sabha)
    • Chairperson traditionally from the Opposition since 1967-68
    • Ministers are not members of PAC

Composition and Leadership of Indian Parliamentary Bodies

Focus: This thread groups items concerning the constitutional rules, appointment processes, and membership criteria for the Rajya Sabha and various Parliamentary Committees.

UPSC Value: Crucial for mastering the 'Parliament and State Legislatures' section of GS Paper II, focusing on the structural and functional nuances of legislative institutions.

4 news items in this theme:

  • 2025-11-15 [Polity & Governance] — Aparajita Sarangi Appointed JPC Chairperson
    Aparajita Sarangi has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC). The JPC consists of a total of 31 members drawn from the ruling party, the opposition party, and nominated members from the Rajya Sabha.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Aparajita Sarangi appointed as Chairperson of the Joint Parliamentary Committee.

    Key Facts:

    • Aparajita Sarangi appointed as Chairperson of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC)
    • JPC consists of 31 members
  • 2025-09-07 [Polity & Governance] — EC Proposal on Rajya Sabha Seats in J&K Rejected
    The Union Law and Justice Ministry rejected the Election Commission's (EC) proposal for a presidential order to stagger the terms of Jammu and Kashmir's (J&K) four Rajya Sabha seats, leaving the UT without representation in the Upper House since 2021. The EC had proposed the order to ensure staggered retirement of J&K's Rajya Sabha members, preventing simultaneous vacancy, similar to a 1952 order after the first Rajya Sabha election.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: EC proposal on Rajya Sabha seats in J&K rejected.

    Key Facts:

    • The Union Law and Justice Ministry rejected the EC's proposal.
    • J&K has had no Rajya Sabha MPs for four years.
    • J&K had no vote in the 2022 Presidential and Vice-Presidential elections and will remain unrepresented in the Vice-President election (Sept 9, 2025).
    • J&K has been without representation in the Upper House since 2021.
    • The EC's proposal aimed to ensure staggered retirement of J&K's Rajya Sabha members.
    • A similar presidential order was issued in 1952 after the first Rajya Sabha election to create a staggered cycle.
  • 2025-07-15 [Polity & Governance] — Nomination to Rajya Sabha
    President Droupadi Murmu has nominated four people of eminence to the Rajya Sabha, including former foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla, Special Public Prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam, C Sadanandan Master, and historian Meenakshi Jain. These nominations are made under Article 80 of the Constitution, which allows the President to nominate individuals with special knowledge in fields like literature, science, art, and social service.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: President nominated Harsh Vardhan Shringla to the Rajya Sabha.

    Key Facts:

    • Harsh Vardhan Shringla: Former Foreign Secretary
    • Ujjwal Nikam: Special Public Prosecutor
    • C Sadanandan Master
    • Meenakshi Jain: Historian
    • Article 80: Allows President to nominate individuals with special knowledge
  • 2025-06-25 [Polity & Governance] — 75 Years of Parliamentary Estimates Committee
    The Lok Sabha Speaker inaugurated the National Conference of Estimates Committees in Mumbai, celebrating 75 years of the Parliamentary Estimates Committee. Established in 1950, this committee ensures economy, efficiency, and accountability in government spending. It comprises 30 Lok Sabha MPs, excluding Ministers, elected annually by proportional representation.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: 75 Years of Parliamentary Estimates Committee.

    Key Facts:

    • Event: National Conference of Estimates Committees
    • Location: Mumbai
    • Anniversary: 75 years of the Parliamentary Estimates Committee
    • Establishment: 1950
    • Purpose: Ensures economy, efficiency, and accountability in government spending
    • Composition: 30 Lok Sabha MPs, excluding Ministers
    • Selection: Elected annually by proportional representation
    • The Chairperson is appointed by the Lok Sabha Speaker for a renewable one-year term.

CAG Institutional Oversight and Audit Diversification

Focus: Recent activities and reports of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India, encompassing procedural reforms in auditing and specific findings on fiscal health and autonomous bodies.

UPSC Value: Analyzing the CAG's expanding role and methodology is essential for understanding constitutional accountability mechanisms and public financial management in India.

4 news items in this theme:

  • 2025-09-20 [Economy] — CAG Report on States' Fiscal Health
    The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) released a decadal analysis of the fiscal health of India's 28 states, revealing a sharp increase in public debt. States' combined public debt tripled from â‚ą17.57 lakh crore in 2013-14 to â‚ą59.60 lakh crore in 2022-23, rising from 16.66% to 22.96% of GSDP. In FY 2022-23, states' total debt was 22.17% of India's GDP.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: CAG report reveals sharp increase in states' public debt.

    Key Facts:

    • States' combined public debt trebled from â‚ą17.57 lakh crore in 2013-14 to â‚ą59.60 lakh crore in 2022-23
    • Debt rose from 16.66% (2013-14) to 22.96% (2022-23) as a share of GSDP
    • In FY 2022-23, states' total debt was 22.17% of India's GDP
    • States' combined public debt trebled from â‚ą17.57 lakh crore in 2013-14 to â‚ą59.60 lakh crore in 2022-23.
    • Debt rose from 16.66% (2013-14) to 22.96% (2022-23) of GSDP.
    • In FY 2022-23, states' total debt was 22.17% of India's GDP.
  • 2025-08-18 [Polity & Governance] — CAG Report on Chakma Autonomous District Council
    A report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India on the Chakma Autonomous District Council for the years 2009-10 to 2014-15 was released on August 18, 2025.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: CAG report on Chakma Autonomous District Council released.

    Key Facts:

    • Report of the CAG of India on Chakma Autonomous District Council for the years 2009-10 to 2014-15
    • Released on 18-August, 2025
  • 2025-06-14 [Polity & Governance] — CAG to Involve CA Firms for Auditing Central Autonomous Bodies
    The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has decided to involve experts from empanelled chartered accountancy (CA) firms for the audit of about 350 Central autonomous bodies beginning this year. This move aims to free up CAG's internal resources and boost capabilities to adapt to India's economic growth.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: CAG using CA firms for auditing autonomous bodies.

    Key Facts:

    • CAG to hire external CA firms to audit around 350 Central autonomous bodies
    • CAG is also upskilling its audit staff through partnerships with top institutes
  • 2025-05-28 [Environment & Ecology] — CAG to Audit Environmental Impact
    The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India has launched a special audit of environmental clearances and compliance for major infrastructure projects.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: CAG to audit environmental clearances for infrastructure projects.

    Key Facts:

    • CAG to audit environmental impact of major infrastructure projects.

State Emergency Provisions and Governor's Role

Focus: Items focusing on the discretionary powers of the Governor and the imposition/revocation of President's Rule in states.

UPSC Value: Illustrates the friction points in federalism regarding Article 356 and the Governor's conduct in state legislatures.

3 news items in this theme:

  • 2026-02-05 [Polity & Governance] — President's Rule Ends in Manipur
    President's Rule in Manipur was revoked, and a Chief Minister was sworn in. President's Rule was imposed under Article 356 due to a breakdown of constitutional machinery and the revocation signifies restoration of elected government & normalcy.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: President's Rule in Manipur revoked; Chief Minister sworn in.

    Key Facts:

    • President's Rule imposed under Article 356
    • Revocation signifies restoration of elected government & normalcy
    • S.R. Bommai judgment places restrictions on the misuse of Article 356
    • Article 356 has been invoked over 130 times across various states and Union Territories since the adoption of the Constitution
  • 2026-01-24 [Polity & Governance] — Governors' Actions Test Constitutional Limits
    Walkouts by Governors in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala during inaugural sessions of State Legislatures have raised constitutional questions, challenging the limits of discretion allowed to Governors. State leaders argue Governors cannot skip paragraphs approved by the Council of Ministers, and the Karnataka government may approach the Supreme Court seeking clarity on the constitutionality of such walkouts.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Governors' actions test constitutional limits.

    Key Facts:

    • Governors' walkouts
    • Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala
    • Constitutional questions
  • 2025-06-03 [Polity & Governance] — President's Rule Constitutional Provisions
    The President can assume state administration if governance doesn't follow constitutional norms, maintaining proper rule of law. According to the 44th Constitutional Amendment Act of 1978, the President's rule can be extended every 6 months up to a maximum of 3 years.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: President's Rule and the 44th Constitutional Amendment Act of 1978.

    Key Facts:

    • Article 355 and Article 365 highlighted
    • 44th Constitutional Amendment Act of 1978 modified the duration of President's rule
    • President's rule can be extended every 6 months up to a maximum of 3 years
    • Extension beyond one year possible only with national emergency or Election Commission certificate

Parliamentary Leadership and Inter-Legislative Cooperation

Focus: High-level conferences and diplomatic exchanges specifically involving Speakers and Presiding Officers of Indian and international legislative bodies during late 2025 and early 2026.

UPSC Value: Understanding the role of presiding officers in parliamentary diplomacy and the modernization of legislative standards through international and domestic cooperation.

3 news items in this theme:

  • 2026-01-20 [Polity & Governance] — All India Presiding Officers' Conference (AIPOC)
    The 86th All India Presiding Officers' Conference (AIPOC) & 62nd Conference of Secretaries of Legislative Bodies in India is being held in Lucknow on 19-21 January 2026. The program includes general and plenary sessions of Election Management Bodies (EMBs) focusing on global electoral challenges, international electoral standards, and innovations in election processes.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: All India Presiding Officers' Conference (AIPOC) held in Lucknow.

    Key Facts:

    • Event: 86th All India Presiding Officers' Conference (AIPOC) & 62nd Conference of Secretaries of Legislative Bodies in India
    • Location: Lucknow
    • Dates: 19-21 January 2026
    • Focus: Global electoral challenges, international electoral standards
  • 2026-01-16 [Polity & Governance] — 28th CSPOC Inaugurated, Focus on Ethical AI and Democratic Credibility
    Narendra Modi inaugurated the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) at Samvidhan Sadan, New Delhi on January 15, 2026. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla's inaugural address emphasized Ethical AI, Social Media Governance, Parliamentary Reforms, and Democratic Credibility.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: 28th CSPOC inaugurated, focus on ethical AI and democratic credibility.

    Key Facts:

    • 28th CSPOC inaugurated by Narendra Modi on January 15, 2026
    • Location: Samvidhan Sadan, New Delhi
    • Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla addressed the conference
    • Focus areas: Ethical AI, Social Media Governance, Parliamentary Reforms, Democratic Credibility
    • Emphasis on increasing use of AI and digital platforms in Parliament and State Legislatures
  • 2025-09-24 [International Relations] — India-Malaysia Relations
    The leaders of India and Malaysia agreed that regular dialogue and exchanges, including high-level visits, have strengthened mutual understanding and coordination across various areas of bilateral cooperation. They reaffirmed the importance of sustaining engagement on bilateral and multilateral issues of mutual interest.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: India and Malaysia agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

    Key Facts:

    • Speaker of House of Representatives of Malaysia visited India for the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) from 13-16 January 2026
    • Indian Parliamentary delegation visited Malaysia in September 2025 for the 46th General Assembly of ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA)
    • All-Party Parliamentary Delegation visited Malaysia from 31 May – 03 June 2025

Legislative Proceedings in the Lok Sabha

Focus: Items documenting the introduction or passage of specific legislative bills within the Lok Sabha across various sectors including taxation, education, and social welfare.

UPSC Value: Understanding the legislative process in the Union Parliament, including the handling of state-specific bills during President's Rule and the role of Private Member's Bills.

3 news items in this theme:

  • 2025-12-06 [Polity & Governance] — Warangal MP Introduces Bills for Women's Welfare in Lok Sabha
    Warangal MP Kadiyam Kavya introduced two Private Member's Bills in the Lok Sabha to strengthen women's welfare, dignity, and safety. One bill mandates menstruation-related facilities in workplaces, and the other focuses on combatting violence against women.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Warangal MP introduced bills for women's welfare in Lok Sabha.

    Key Facts:

    • Kadiyam Kavya: Warangal MP
  • 2025-12-01 [Polity & Governance] — Lok Sabha Passes Manipur Goods and Services Tax Bill
    The Lok Sabha has passed the Manipur Goods and Services Tax Bill.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Lok Sabha has passed the Manipur Goods and Services Tax Bill.

    Key Facts:

    • Bill: Manipur Goods and Services Tax Bill
    • Passed by: Lok Sabha
  • 2025-08-19 [Polity & Governance] — IIM Bill in Lok Sabha
    A bill has been introduced in the Lok Sabha to grant 'national importance' status to IIM Guwahati under the IIM Act.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Bill introduced to grant 'national importance' status to IIM Guwahati.

    Key Facts:

    • IIM Guwahati
    • Bill seeks 'national importance' status under IIM Act

Parliamentary Standing Committee Oversight and Policy Recommendations

Focus: Items involving formal reports and recommendations from Parliamentary Standing Committees aimed at reforming specific sectors like agriculture, fertilizers, and media regulation.

UPSC Value: Understanding the role of the legislature in exercising oversight over the executive and influencing policy formulation through committee reports.

3 news items in this theme:

  • 2025-12-05 [Polity & Governance] — Parliamentary Panel on Fake News
    A Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communications and IT has released a report titled "Review of Mechanism to Curb Fake News". It asks the government to define 'fake news' and incorporate clauses in the regulatory framework. The committee also suggests amending penal provisions for publishing/telecasting fake news in relevant Acts/Rules/Guidelines for each form of media.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Parliamentary panel asks government to define 'fake news'.

    Key Facts:

    • Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communications and IT: Released the report
    • Review of Mechanism to Curb Fake News: Title of the report
  • 2025-12-03 [Polity & Governance] — Parliamentary Panel Seeks Stricter Fertilizer Policies
    A parliamentary standing committee has recommended 'more stringent policies and guidelines' to stop black-marketing, smuggling, and pilferage of fertilizers. The committee also recommends making 100% neem-coating mandatory again and implementing biometric authentication at retail.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Parliamentary panel seeks stricter fertilizer policies to curb black-marketing.

    Key Facts:

    • The Dept-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Chemicals & Fertilisers made the recommendations.
  • 2025-03-15 [Polity & Governance] — Parliamentary panel asks Centre to spend more on agriculture, rename Ministry
    A parliamentary panel, headed by former Punjab CM Charanjit Singh Channi, has asked the Union government to increase spending on agriculture and rename the Union Agriculture Ministry to recognize the significance of farm workers.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Parliamentary panel asks for increased agriculture spending, ministry renaming.

    Key Facts:

    • Charanjit Singh Channi
    • Union Agriculture Ministry

Criminal and Judicial Proceedings Involving Political Figures

Focus: Legal actions including FIRs, remands, and parole involving current or former members of Indian legislative bodies and high-ranking public officials.

UPSC Value: Examining the intersection of criminal justice and political accountability in India.

3 news items in this theme:

  • 2025-11-02 [Polity & Governance] — Ex-JD(U) MLA Anant Singh remanded to judicial custody in Dular Chand murder case
    A Patna court remanded ex-JD(U) MLA Anant Singh and two associates to 14-day judicial custody related to the murder of Jan Suraaj Party supporter Dular Chand Yadav. Singh is a JD(U) candidate from the Mokama seat.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

    Key Facts:

    • Anant Singh
    • Ex-JD(U) MLA
    • 14-day judicial custody
    • Murder of Dular Chand Yadav
    • Patna court
    • Mokama seat
  • 2025-10-21 [Polity & Governance] — FIR Filed Against Ex-Punjab DGP and Wife
    Haryana Police have filed a First Information Report (FIR) against Mohammad Mustafa, former Director General of Police (DGP) for Punjab (Human Rights), his wife Razia Sultana, a former PWD Minister, and two others, alleging murder and criminal conspiracy related to their son's death.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

    Key Facts:

    • Mohammad Mustafa: Former Director General of Police (DGP) for Punjab (Human Rights)
    • Razia Sultana: Wife of Mohammad Mustafa, former PWD Minister
    • Aqil Akhtar: Son of Mohammad Mustafa and Razia Sultana, deceased
    • Haryana Police: Agency that filed the FIR
  • 2025-07-22 [Polity & Governance] — Engineer Rashid Granted Custody Parole
    Patiala House Court granted custody parole to Baramulla MP Engineer Rashid to attend Parliament sessions from July 24 to August 4, 2025, under specific conditions and costs.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: MP granted parole to attend parliament; potential impact on legislative process.

    Key Facts:

    • Baramulla MP Engineer Rashid granted custody parole.
    • Parole to attend Parliament sessions from July 24 to August 4, 2025.

Legislative Mechanisms for Removal of Officials (Q3 2025)

Focus: Parliamentary proceedings and bills introduced in July-August 2025 specifically focused on the removal or impeachment of high-ranking constitutional and government functionaries.

UPSC Value: Useful for studying the constitutional and legislative procedures (and proposed amendments) regarding the accountability and removal of judges and ministers.

3 news items in this theme:

  • 2025-08-21 [Polity & Governance] — Parliament's Monsoon Session Highlights
    The Parliament's Monsoon Session is closing, marked by a ruckus in the Lok Sabha after Home Minister Amit Shah introduced three bills targeting ministers facing corruption allegations. These bills aim to remove ministers, including the PM and CMs, detained for at least 30 days on serious charges. The bills have been referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Monsoon session marked by ruckus over bills targeting corruption.

    Key Facts:

    • Union Home Minister Amit Shah
    • Three Bills
    • Remove Central and state ministers, including the Prime Minister and Chief Ministers
    • Corruption allegations or serious offenses
    • Detained for at least 30 days
    • Home Minister Amit Shah introduced three bills
    • Bills seek to remove Central and state ministers, including the Prime Minister and Chief Ministers, who face allegations of corruption or serious offences
    • Detention period is at least 30 days
    • The bills have been referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee
    • The Constitution (One Hundred and Thirtieth Amendment) Bill, 2025
    • the Government of Union Territories (Amendment) Bill, 2025
    • Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2025
  • 2025-07-22 [Polity & Governance] — Parliament begins process for Justice Varma's impeachment
    The Parliament has initiated the impeachment process for Justice Varma. Notices for the impeachment have been submitted by 145 Lok Sabha and 63 Rajya Sabha MPs.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Parliament begins process for Justice Varma's impeachment.

    Key Facts:

    • Justice Varma
    • Impeachment process initiated
    • 145 LS MPs submitted notices
    • 63 RS MPs submitted notices
  • 2025-07-18 [Polity & Governance] — Arjun Ram Meghwal on Justice Varma impeachment motion.
    Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal stated that bringing an impeachment motion in Parliament against Allahabad High Court judge Yashwant Varma is solely the concern of the Members of Parliament and that the government is not involved.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

    Key Facts:

    • Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal said that bringing an impeachment motion in Parliament against Allahabad High Court judge Yashwant Varma is entirely a matter of the MPs.
    • The government is nowhere in the picture.

Internal Party Discipline and Leadership Reorganization

Focus: Formal internal actions taken by Indian political parties—including expulsions, suspensions, and strategic resignations—to manage leadership structure and enforce party discipline.

UPSC Value: Understanding internal party dynamics and disciplinary mechanisms is essential for analyzing political stability and leadership evolution within India's democratic framework.

3 news items in this theme:

  • 2025-08-10 [Polity & Governance] — Anand Sharma Resigns as Chairman of Congress' Foreign Affairs Department
    Veteran Congress leader Anand Sharma resigned as chairman of the party's foreign affairs department to facilitate reconstitution and inclusion of younger leaders. He led the department for approximately a decade, with the last committee formation in 2018.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

    Key Facts:

    • Anand Sharma
    • Congress
    • foreign affairs department
    • resigned
    • National Committee of Department of Foreign Affairs
    • 2018
  • 2025-04-01 [Polity & Governance] — Kerala BJP Suspends Party Member
    Kerala BJP suspended a party member who approached the High Court seeking a ban on the screening of the film 'Empuraan'.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

    Key Facts:

    • State: Kerala
    • Party: BJP
    • Issue: Party member approached High Court to ban 'Empuraan' screening
    • Action: Suspension of party member
  • 2025-03-03 [Polity & Governance] — Mayawati Expels Nephew Akash Anand from BSP
    Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati has expelled her nephew, Akash Anand, from the party in the interest of the party. This development occurred a day after Mr. Anand was removed from all party posts in the BSP.
    More details

    UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

    Key Facts:

    • Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP)
    • Mayawati
    • Akash Anand expelled from party
    • Removed from all party posts

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