State Governance, Public Order, and Environmental Accountability: UPSC Current Affairs Analysis & Study Strategy

In-Depth Analysis

The Big Picture

The 2025-26 landscape reflects a hardening of state-level governance where the 'Executive' is increasingly using legislative tools (like the Rajasthan Disturbed Areas Act and Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill) to regulate social dynamics under the umbrella of 'Public Order'. Simultaneously, the 'Judiciary' (SC and NGT) acts as a rigorous auditor, stepping in where state enforcement fails—particularly in environmental non-compliance in Uttar Pradesh and religious administration in Tamil Nadu.

Cross-Theme Insight

Together, these threads reveal a shift from 'reactive' policing to 'preemptive' social engineering. Whether it is banning caste-based signs in UP, restricting RSS activities in Karnataka, or redefining 'disturbed areas' in Rajasthan based on 'demographic imbalance', states are moving beyond merely stopping violence to actively managing the 'visibility' and 'clustering' of social identities. This signifies a transition where 'Administrative Convenience' is being prioritized over traditional 'Civil Liberty' frameworks.

Textbook vs Reality Gap

Standard textbooks like Laxmikanth (7th ed., p. 623) and D.D. Basu (26th ed., p. 125) frame 'Public Order' as a reasonable restriction added via the 1st Amendment (1951) to Article 19(2) primarily to prevent incitement. However, modern state legislation, such as the Rajasthan Bill [Thread 2] and the Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill [Thread 11], expands this to include 'demographic clustering' and 'unlawful organisations' without public notification—categories that go significantly beyond the 'incitement to an offence' threshold traditionally taught in static polity.

How This Theme Is Evolving

The theme has evolved from judicial 'directives' to judicial 'oversight of implementation' (e.g., NGT tracking 1,370 industries in UP). The trajectory suggests an increasing reliance on 'Specialized Benches' and 'Tribunals' to fill the vacuum of executive willpower in environmental and social justice domains.

UPSC Exam Intelligence

Previous Year Question Pattern

Environmental governance is a recurring theme, with IAS 2018 (NID 5749) testing the institutional difference between NGT and CPCB. The Supreme Court's jurisdiction (IAS 2012, NID 14944) and Article 19 restrictions (CDS-I 2012, NID 11767) are high-frequency areas. Recent papers show a shift toward 'Social Justice Benches' (CDS-I 2023, NID 13104), mirroring current news like the SC guidelines on dowry-related violence.

Probable Prelims Angles

• The statutory basis and powers of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) vs Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
• Provisions of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) and its implementation authorities in the NCR.
• The 'Polluter Pays Principle' and 'Precautionary Principle' in the context of UP's industrial pollution.
• Article 25 vs State's power to regulate secular activities associated with religious practices (TN Temple/Dargah cases).
• Constitutional validity of the 'disturbed areas' classification and its impact on Article 19 rights.

Mains Answer Framework

• The delicate balance between the State's mandate to maintain public order and the Judiciary's role as the sentinel on the qui vive has come under renewed scrutiny with recent state-level legislative interventions.
• Judicial Activism in Environmental Governance: Cite SC's intervention in stubble burning penalties and GIB protection as examples of the court filling a 'policy vacuum'.. The Expansion of State Authority: Discuss the Rajasthan and Maharashtra bills as instances of expanding 'Public Order' restrictions on Article 19.. Administrative Reform vs. Social Dignity: Analyze the Haryana advisory on 'Harijan' and UP's caste-signage ban through the lens of Article 17 and Article 21 (Right to Dignity).
• Sustainable governance requires a 'Cooperative Federalism' approach where states move beyond symbolic bans toward substantive enforcement of environmental and social safeguards.

Essay Connections

• 'The Judiciary as a Reformer or an Overreacher?': Use the contrast between TN religious rulings and UP environmental orders.
• 'Social Harmony vs. Identity Expression': Use the UP caste-signage ban and Karnataka RSS restrictions as case studies.

Preparation Strategy

Reading Approach

Start with Laxmikanth to understand the 'Public Order' restriction under Article 19(2). Then, analyze the current threads to see how state bills are stretching this definition. Follow up with Shankar IAS to differentiate between the regulatory (CPCB) and adjudicatory (NGT) roles in the UP and Delhi pollution contexts.

Textbook Roadmap

• Laxmikanth (7th ed.), Chapter 8: Fundamental Rights. Threads 2, 4, 6, and 8 regarding Article 19 and 25.. Sections on 'Reasonable Restrictions' and 'Freedom of Religion'.
• Shankar IAS (10th ed.), Chapter 27: Environmental Organizations. Threads 1 and 3.. Detailed powers of NGT and the Environment Protection Act, 1986.
• D.D. Basu (26th ed.), Chapter 8, p. 146. Thread 2 regarding the Rajasthan Disturbed Areas Act.. Principles of 'Procedural Unreasonableness' in state restrictions.

Revision Bullets

• Article 19(2) 'Public Order' added by the 1st Amendment, 1951.
• NGT established by National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 (Statutory Body).
• Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ): 10,400 sq km area to protect Taj Mahal.
• GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan): Implementing authority is the CAQM (Commission for Air Quality Management).
• Article 17: Abolition of Untouchability (basis for 'Harijan' terminology advisories).
• Polluter Pays Principle: Legal requirement for polluters to bear the cost of managing pollution to prevent damage to human health or the environment.

Sub-Themes and News Coverage (11 themes, 37 news items)

Environmental Governance and Judicial Oversight in Uttar Pradesh

Focus: A pattern of environmental non-compliance in Uttar Pradesh (Taj Mahal, Kanpur, Ganga) triggering specific interventions by the NGT and Supreme Court.

UPSC Value: Illustrates the active role of the judiciary (NGT/SC) in enforcing environmental accountability (Polluter Pays Principle) when state executive mechanisms fail.

5 news items in this theme:

• 2026-01-06 [Environment & Ecology] — Taj Trapezium Zone Environmental Concerns
  The National Green Tribunal issued a notice to the Centre and the Uttar Pradesh government over non-compliance with environmental norms in the Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ). The Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ) was notified to protect the Taj Mahal from air pollution caused by sulphur dioxide, particulate matter, vehicular emissions, and construction dust.
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  UPSC Angle: NGT notice over non-compliance in Taj Trapezium Zone.

  Key Facts:

  • National Green Tribunal issued a notice to the Centre and the Uttar Pradesh government
  • Reason: non-compliance with environmental norms in the Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ)
  • Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ) was notified to protect the Taj Mahal from air pollution
  • Air pollution caused by sulphur dioxide, particulate matter, vehicular emissions, and construction dust
• 2025-11-14 [Environment & Ecology] — NGT orders UP govt to identify residents exposed to chromium and mercury
  The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Uttar Pradesh government to locate and list individuals affected by chromium and mercury pollution in Kanpur Nagar, Kanpur Dehat, Fatehpur, and nearby regions, following concerns about factory waste disposal in Rania, Rakhi Mandi, and adjacent Kanpur areas. The NGT's directive was issued by a main bench headed by Chairperson Prakash Shrivastava and expert member Afroz Ahmad.
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  UPSC Angle: NGT orders UP govt to identify residents exposed to chromium and mercury.

  Key Facts:

  • NGT Chairperson: Prakash Shrivastava
  • Expert member: Afroz Ahmad
  • Affected areas: Kanpur Nagar, Kanpur Dehat, Fatehpur
  • Pollutants: Chromium, Mercury
  • Location of waste dumping: Rania, Rakhi Mandi
• 2025-09-26 [Environment & Ecology] — Over 50% of U.P. industries flout norms: report on Ganga pollution
  A report by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) reveals that over 50% of Grossly Polluting Industries (GPIs) in Uttar Pradesh are not following mandated environmental regulations. The inspections covered 1,370 GPIs across UP.
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  UPSC Angle: Report: Over 50% of U.P. industries flout Ganga pollution norms.

  Key Facts:

  • Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
  • National Green Tribunal (NGT)
  • Grossly Polluting Industries (GPIs)
  • Uttar Pradesh
  • 1,370 GPIs inspected
• 2025-04-27 [Environment & Ecology] — Supreme Court Directs NEERI Assessment on Taj Mahal Pollution
  The Supreme Court has directed the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) to assess the impact of glass industries near the Taj Mahal. The court warned that if the industries were found to be polluting, it may order their removal or relocation. The Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) has also been directed to form a team to inspect the industrial units and submit an interim report.
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  UPSC Angle: Supreme Court directs NEERI assessment on Taj Mahal pollution.

  Key Facts:

  • Directed NEERI to assess impact of glass industries
  • Threatened removal/relocation of polluting industries
  • Directed UPPCB to inspect industrial units and submit an interim report
• 2025-04-27 [Environment & Ecology] — Taj Mahal Facing Environmental Threats
  Reports on April 27, 2025, highlighted that the Taj Mahal is facing threats such as marble discoloration due to pollution and algae, structural damage from falling Yamuna water levels, aesthetic and cultural degradation, and reduced tourism potential. These environmental concerns pose a risk to the iconic monument's preservation and its associated economic benefits.
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  UPSC Angle: Taj Mahal faces environmental threats like marble discoloration and structural damage.

  Key Facts:

  • Marble Discoloration: The pristine white marble is turning yellow and greenish due to pollution and algae.
  • Structural Damage: Weakening of the foundation due to falling Yamuna water levels.
  • Aesthetic and Cultural Degradation: Compromised visual appeal and loss of heritage value.
  • Reduced Tourism Potential: Environmental degradation can impact tourist inflows and economic benefits.

Judicial and Administrative Management of Environmental Crises

Focus: Items detailing Supreme Court interventions and government enforcement (GRAP, mining bans) regarding environmental protection and pollution in North India.

UPSC Value: Useful for studying the role of the Judiciary in environmental governance and the implementation challenges of frameworks like GRAP.

5 news items in this theme:

• 2025-12-28 [Environment & Ecology] — Supreme Court Addresses GIB Deaths from Power Lines
  The Supreme Court of India has intervened to reduce Great Indian Bustard (GIB) deaths caused by collisions with overhead power lines linked to renewable energy projects. The court redrew priority conservation zones and ordered undergrounding of power lines in critical habitats in Rajasthan and Gujarat.
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  UPSC Angle: SC intervention to reduce GIB deaths from power lines.

  Key Facts:

  • Supreme Court intervention to protect the Great Indian Bustard (GIB)
  • Revised Priority Conservation Areas: Expanded to 14,13 km
  • Ordered undergrounding of power lines in critical areas
  • Voltage-Based Mitigation (Undergrounding & Timelines)
  • Bird Flight Diverters: Evidence-Based Pause
  • Measures for Rajasthan and Gujarat
• 2025-12-25 [Environment & Ecology] — Environment Ministry Enforces Aravalli Orders
  The Environment Ministry directed the Chief Secretaries of Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat to enforce the Supreme Court's order preventing new mining leases across the Aravalli range until a management plan is finalized. This action aims to protect the Aravalli range.
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  UPSC Angle: Environment Ministry enforces Supreme Court's Aravalli mining orders.

  Key Facts:

  • Environment Ministry issued orders to Chief Secretaries of Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat
  • Orders enforce the Supreme Court's direction preventing new mining leases across the Aravalli range
  • Enforcement is until a management plan is finalized
• 2025-11-11 [Environment & Ecology] — Delhi Air Quality Worsens, Stricter Anti-Pollution Measures Implemented
  Delhi's air quality deteriorated to the 'severe' category, leading to a ban on construction activities and a shift to hybrid classes for schools up to Class 5. Stricter anti-pollution measures were imposed under Stage 3 of GRAP in Delhi and nearby areas.
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  UPSC Angle: Delhi's air quality worsens, stricter anti-pollution measures implemented.

  Key Facts:

  • Delhi air quality worsened to the 'severe' category.
  • Construction banned, schools to go hybrid up to Class 5.
  • Stricter anti-pollution measures under stage 3 of GRAP implemented in Delhi and nearby areas.
• 2025-09-18 [Polity & Governance] — Supreme Court Addresses Stubble Burning
  The Supreme Court suggested strict penalties, including jail time, for stubble burning, but the Centre expressed concerns about the feasibility of such measures. Stubble burning, primarily in Punjab, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh during October-November, is a quick way for farmers to clear fields for the next sowing, but it causes air pollution by releasing particulate matter. The government provides machines like Happy Seeders at subsidized rates and promotes in-situ management.
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  UPSC Angle: Supreme Court Addresses Stubble Burning.

  Key Facts:

  • strict penalties
  • Centre favours cooperative solutions
  • issue of winter pollution in northern India caused by stubble burning
  • Stubble burning
  • Punjab
  • Haryana
  • western Uttar Pradesh
  • October–November
  • Happy Seeder
  • Rotavators
  • Straw Choppers
  • Commission for Air Quality Management Act
• 2025-03-01 [Polity & Governance] — Supreme Court directs compensation for construction workers in Delhi-NCR
  The Supreme Court directed Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan to compensate construction workers affected by the closure of activities due to GRAP measures in Delhi-NCR, even without specific court orders. Haryana has already paid compensation to 2,68,759 and 2,24,881 workers in the first and second phases of GRAP-4, respectively.
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  UPSC Angle: SC directs compensation for construction workers in Delhi-NCR.

  Key Facts:

  • Supreme Court
  • Haryana
  • Uttar Pradesh
  • Rajasthan
  • Delhi-NCR
  • GRAP measures
  • Compensation for construction workers

State Legislation on Public Order and Communal Harmony

Focus: State governments introducing specific legislation to regulate social conduct, speech, and demographic clustering to maintain 'public order' or 'harmony'.

UPSC Value: Examines the trend of state-level statutory interventions in social dynamics and the balance between public order and civil liberties.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2026-02-09 [Polity & Governance] — Rajasthan Bill on Disturbance
  The Rajasthan Bill adopts language similar to the stayed Gujarat amendment, invoking demographic imbalance, improper clustering, and population composition as sources of disturbance. It redefines disturbance as a permanent condition, shifting from regulating acts to evaluating identity and character.
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  UPSC Angle: Rajasthan bill mirrors Gujarat amendment on demographic imbalance.

  Key Facts:

  • The Rajasthan Bill invokes "Demographic imbalance", "Improper clustering", Population composition as a source of disturbance.
• 2026-01-24 [Polity & Governance] — Rajasthan Disturbed Areas Act
  Rajasthan is preparing to introduce a Bill to declare certain localities as “disturbed areas” to address what it describes as demographic imbalance and improper clustering, closely mirroring Gujarat's 1991 Disturbed Areas Act. The state government presents this move as necessary to preserve communal harmony, however, the Gujarat law has faced criticism over constitutional concerns.
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  UPSC Angle: Rajasthan to introduce Disturbed Areas Act.

  Key Facts:

  • Rajasthan Disturbed Areas Act
  • Gujarat's 1991 Disturbed Areas Act (mirrors)
  • Demographic imbalance and improper clustering (addressed)
• 2025-12-05 [Polity & Governance] — Karnataka Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill, 2025
  The State Cabinet approved the Karnataka Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill, 2025, to effectively curb, prevent, dissemination, publication or promotion of hate speech and hate crimes, which cause disharmony and hatred in society. It aims to curb actions causing injury, disharmony, enmity, or hatred against individuals, groups, or organizations. It is applicable to both persons and institutions.
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  UPSC Angle: Karnataka Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill, 2025 approved.

  Key Facts:

  • Karnataka Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill, 2025: Name of the bill
  • Prevention of dissemination, publication, and promotion of hate speech and hate crimes: Purpose of the bill
  • Objective: To curb hate speech and hate crimes that cause disharmony and hatred in society
  • Approved by: Karnataka State Cabinet
  • Karnataka Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill, 2025 approved.
  • Aims to curb actions causing injury, disharmony, enmity, or hatred.
  • Applicable to both persons and institutions.

State Administrative Regulation of Caste Visibility and Terminology

Focus: State governments issuing executive orders to prohibit specific caste-based terminology, displays, or gatherings to promote social cohesion.

UPSC Value: Useful for analyzing the role of the Executive in social reform and the tension between identity expression and social order (GS-1 Society, GS-2 Social Justice).

3 news items in this theme:

• 2026-01-14 [Polity & Governance] — Haryana Govt advisory: Avoid using 'Harijan'
  The Haryana government has issued an advisory to avoid using the term 'Harijan', highlighting social justice and terminology in governance. This is relevant for UPSC covering social justice and dignity.
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  UPSC Angle: Haryana advisory: Avoid using 'Harijan'.

  Key Facts:

  • Social justice
  • dignity
  • terminology in governance
• 2025-09-23 [Polity & Governance] — UP Government Prohibits Caste-Based Rallies
  The Uttar Pradesh government has prohibited caste-based rallies. This decision is aimed at promoting social harmony and preventing caste-based polarization.
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  UPSC Angle: UP government prohibits caste-based rallies.

  Key Facts:

  • UP government prohibited caste-based rallies
• 2025-09-23 [Polity & Governance] — UP Order on Caste-Based Signs
  The Uttar Pradesh government issued an order regarding caste-based signs, raising concerns about its impact on freedom of expression and social justice. The order raises concerns about silencing marginalized communities, implications for social cohesion, and its impact on constitutional protections like Article 19 and Article 15.
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  UPSC Angle: UP order on caste-based signs raises concerns.

  Key Facts:

  • UP order on caste-based signs
  • Impact on freedom of expression and social justice
  • Concerns about silencing marginalized communities
  • Role of constitutional protections (e.g., Article 19, Article 15)

Judicial Adjudication of TN Religious Practices

Focus: Legal interventions by the Supreme Court and Madras High Court regarding the administration, rituals, and inclusivity of religious institutions in Tamil Nadu.

UPSC Value: Illustrates the judiciary's role in balancing religious freedom (Article 25/26) with social reform and administrative legality.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2026-01-06 [Polity & Governance] — TN Govt to Appeal Madras HC order on Thirupparankundram row
  Tamil Nadu government will appeal in the Supreme Court against the Madras High Court order on lighting a lamp at a stone pillar near a dargah on the Thirupparankundram hill.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Tamil Nadu government
  • Appeal in Supreme Court
  • Madras High Court order
  • Lighting of lamp at stone pillar near dargah
  • Thirupparankundram hill
• 2025-07-17 [Society & Culture] — Madras High Court Addresses Caste Discrimination at Temple
  The Madras High Court directed the Ariyalur Superintendent of Police to ensure that Scheduled Caste (SC) persons are not prevented from entering the Puthukudi Ayyanar Temple in Udayarpalayam taluk. The court emphasized that caste-based discrimination cannot be permitted and ordered that all people, irrespective of caste, be allowed to enter the temple.
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  UPSC Angle: Madras High Court Addresses Caste Discrimination at Temple.

  Key Facts:

  • Ariyalur Superintendent of Police directed to ensure SC persons are not prevented from entering the Puthukudi Ayyanar Temple.
  • All classes of people, irrespective of caste, must be permitted to enter the temple.
• 2025-05-24 [Polity & Governance] — Supreme Court Allows Appointment of Archakas in Tamil Nadu Temples
  The Supreme Court has allowed the Tamil Nadu government to appoint 'archakas' (priests) to the state's temples not governed by Agama tradition. This decision addresses debates over caste-based priesthood, temple autonomy, and ritual conformity, ensuring appointments follow traditional procedures and constitutional norms.
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  UPSC Angle: SC allows appointment of Archakas in Tamil Nadu temples.

  Key Facts:

  • Supreme Court allowed Tamil Nadu govt to appoint 'archakas' to temples not governed by Agama tradition.

Judicial and Legal Oversight of Governance and Justice in Uttar Pradesh

Focus: Legal interventions and judicial reviews involving the Allahabad High Court's jurisdiction or the state of Uttar Pradesh, addressing criminal justice, administrative probes, and public order.

UPSC Value: Useful for understanding the role of the judiciary in monitoring state-level governance, addressing regional crime patterns, and ensuring administrative accountability in India's most populous state.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-12-18 [Polity & Governance] — Supreme Court Issues Guidelines on Dowry-Related Violence
  The Supreme Court, in State of Uttar Pradesh vs Ajmal Beg (2025), set aside an acquittal in a dowry death case and issued comprehensive guidelines to strengthen enforcement against dowry-related violence and deaths. The court emphasized that dowry, even when disguised as “gifts”, violates women's dignity, equality and right to life. Governments are instructed to integrate constitutional values of equality and dignity in school curricula to address dowry at the social-conditioning stage.
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  UPSC Angle: SC issues guidelines to strengthen enforcement against dowry-related violence.

  Key Facts:

  • Case name: State of Uttar Pradesh vs Ajmal Beg (2025).
  • The Court set aside the Allahabad High Court's acquittal and restored trial court convictions under Sections 304B & 498A IPC, read with Section 113B, Indian Evidence Act.
  • Scale of the problem: ~7,000 dowry deaths annually (NCRB average).
  • Criminal justice gap: Only ~4,500 cases charge-sheeted yearly; 67% investigations pending over 6 months (2022).
  • Low convictions: Barely ~100 convictions annually from ~6,500 trial cases.
  • Regional concentration: ~80% cases from UP, Bihar, Jharkhand, MP, Odisha, Rajasthan, WB and Haryana.
  • Urban distress: Delhi accounts for ~30% of dowry deaths among major cities.
• 2025-09-24 [Polity & Governance] — Allahabad HC stays probe against madrassas in UP
  The Allahabad High Court has put a stop to the EOW (Economic Offences Wing) investigation against 558 aided madrassas located in Uttar Pradesh.
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  UPSC Angle: Allahabad HC stays probe against madrassas in UP.

  Key Facts:

  • Allahabad High Court stayed EOW probe.
  • 558 aided madrassas in Uttar Pradesh are affected.
• 2025-08-28 [Polity & Governance] — Report on Sambhal Violence Submitted to UP CM
  On August 28, 2025, a three-member judicial commission, headed by retired Allahabad High Court judge Devendra Kumar Arora, submitted its report on the November 2024 violence in Sambhal to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The report is expected to provide insights into the causes and handling of the violence.
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  UPSC Angle: Report on Sambhal violence submitted to UP CM.

  Key Facts:

  • A three-member judicial commission submitted a report on the November 2024 violence in Sambhal.
  • The commission was headed by retired Allahabad High Court judge Devendra Kumar Arora.

Public Safety Incidents and Administrative Responses in TN

Focus: Events involving mass casualties or accidents in Tamil Nadu and the subsequent judicial or executive responses to ensure safety.

UPSC Value: Useful for studying disaster management, public safety protocols, and accountability mechanisms.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-11-24 [Disaster Management] — Tamil Nadu Bus Collision
  A head-on collision between two private buses in Tamil Nadu's Tenkasi district on November 24, 2025, resulted in six fatalities and over 20 injuries. The accident occurred at 10:50 am on the Tenkasi–Kadayanallur road, near the Achampatti signal under the Ilathur Police Station's jurisdiction.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Date: November 24, 2025
  • Location: Tenkasi district, Tamil Nadu
  • Accident: Head-on collision between two private buses
  • Fatalities: 6
  • Injuries: Over 20
  • Time: 10:50 am
  • Road: Tenkasi–Kadayanallur road
  • Near: Achampatti signal
  • Police Station Jurisdiction: Ilathur Police Station
• 2025-10-10 [Polity & Governance] — Supreme Court reserves order on Karur stampede case
  The Supreme Court has reserved its order on a plea by Tamil actor Vijay's party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), challenging a Madras High Court order to form a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the Karur stampede, where 41 people died. TVK is seeking an independent investigation under Supreme Court supervision, alleging a fair probe isn't possible with T.N. Police alone.
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  UPSC Angle: Supreme Court reserves order on Karur stampede case.

  Key Facts:

  • Supreme Court reserved order on plea by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) on October 10, 2025.
  • TVK challenged Madras High Court order to set up SIT to probe Karur stampede.
  • 41 people were killed in the Karur stampede.
  • TVK seeks independent investigation under Supreme Court supervision.
  • TVK alleges fair probe isn't possible with T.N. Police alone.
• 2025-09-29 [Polity & Governance] — Tamil Nadu to Frame Guidelines for Public Events
  Following a stampede at a political rally in Karur that resulted in 41 deaths, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announced that the state government will formulate rules and guidelines for public events held by political parties and other organizations. The guidelines will be framed after consultations with political parties and other organizations, based on the report submitted by the Justice Aruna Jagadeesan Commission of Inquiry.
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  UPSC Angle: Tamil Nadu to frame guidelines for public events after stampede.

  Key Facts:

  • Tamil Nadu Chief Minister: M.K. Stalin
  • Karur stampede death toll: 41
  • Rules and guidelines will be framed for public events
  • Consultations will be held with political parties and organizations
  • Justice Aruna Jagadeesan Commission of Inquiry will submit a report

Institutional and State Regulation of Academic Expression

Focus: Administrative and legal measures taken by university authorities or the state to penalize or restrict student activism, academic research, and literature.

UPSC Value: Critically examines the balance between institutional discipline/national security and the constitutional rights to academic freedom and freedom of expression (GS Paper II).

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-11-21 [Polity & Governance] — JNU Students Rusticated for Vandalism
  Jawaharlal Nehru University has rusticated five PhD students, including four JNU Students' Union office-bearers, for two semesters after they were found guilty of vandalising Facial Recognition Technology access gates at the Dr B R Ambedkar Central Library on November 21, 2025.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Jawaharlal Nehru University
  • Five PhD students rusticated
  • Vandalising Facial Recognition Technology access gates
  • Dr B R Ambedkar Central Library
  • ₹20,000 fine each
• 2025-08-23 [Polity & Governance] — Academic Freedom Under Scrutiny in India
  An editorial in The Hindu discusses the erosion of academic freedoms in India, citing FIRs against a researcher from Lokniti and a show cause notice from the ICSSR. The editorial criticizes government attempts to suppress independent analysis through administrative actions, which it warns undermine good governance.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • FIRs filed against a researcher from Lokniti.
  • ICSSR issued a show cause notice to CSDS.
  • Sanjay Kumar, Lokniti co-director, posted erroneous data about electoral roll reductions in Maharashtra.
• 2025-08-07 [Polity & Governance] — J&K Govt. Declares 25 Books 'Forfeited', Citing 'Secessionism'
  The Jammu & Kashmir Home Department declared 25 books as 'forfeited' for propagating false narratives and secessionism in J&K. The books include works by A.G. Noorani, Arundhati Roy, Sumantra Bose and Ayesha Jalal.
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  UPSC Angle: J&K Govt. Declares 25 Books 'Forfeited', Citing 'Secessionism'.

  Key Facts:

  • J&K Home Department declared 25 books as forfeited on August 6, 2025.
  • Books declared as forfeited propagate false narrative and secessionism.
  • Authors include A.G. Noorani, Arundhati Roy, Sumantra Bose, and Ayesha Jalal.

State-Level Regulation of Civil Society and Public Expression

Focus: Legislative and executive actions by Indian state governments in 2025 aimed at monitoring media sentiment, restricting organizational access to public spaces, and expanding powers to ban organizations.

UPSC Value: This thread is significant for understanding the evolving legal and administrative framework of internal security, federalism, and the balance between state authority and civil liberties.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-10-16 [Polity & Governance] — Karnataka Cabinet Moves to Restrict RSS Activities
  The Karnataka Cabinet has decided to issue an order preventing trespassing of public properties by organisations such as the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. The decision follows a letter seeking a ban on activities of the RSS on public properties such as government schools, colleges, etc.
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  UPSC Angle: Karnataka Cabinet moves to restrict RSS activities.

  Key Facts:

  • The Karnataka Cabinet has decided to issue an order preventing trespassing of public properties by organisations such as the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh.
• 2025-07-30 [Polity & Governance] — Maharashtra Passes Special Public Security Bill
  The Maharashtra Legislature passed the Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill to provide for effective prevention of certain unlawful activities of Left Wing Extremist organisations or similar organisations'. The State Government can ban organisations it deems unlawful without public notification or due process safeguards, and Section 2(f) criminalises speech, gestures, or signs that “tend to interfere with public order or cause concern.
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  UPSC Angle: Maharashtra passes Special Public Security Bill.

  Key Facts:

  • Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill passed
  • Aims to prevent unlawful activities of Left Wing Extremist organizations
  • State Government can ban organizations without public notification
  • Criminalizes expression that tends to interfere with public order or cause concern
  • The Maharashtra Legislature passed the Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill.
  • The State Government can ban organisations it deems unlawful without public notification or due process safeguards.
  • Section 2(f) criminalises speech, gestures, or signs that “tend to interfere with public order or cause concern.
• 2025-03-14 [Polity & Governance] — Maharashtra Establishes Media Monitoring Centre
  Maharashtra has established a Media Monitoring Centre under the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) to analyze media reports across print, electronic, and social platforms. The center aims to monitor media coverage of government policies, categorize reports, and track public sentiment to improve citizen communication.
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  UPSC Angle: Maharashtra establishes Media Monitoring Centre under DIPR.

  Key Facts:

  • Established by: Maharashtra government
  • Under: Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR)
  • Purpose: Analyze media reports and track public sentiment

Student Unrest and Institutional Accountability in Indian Universities

Focus: Incidents of student-led protests across Indian campuses triggered by systemic failures, including safety lapses, harassment, and administrative land disputes.

UPSC Value: Relevant for Social Justice and Education sections, highlighting the challenges of campus safety, student welfare, and the role of student activism in institutional governance.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-10-14 [Society & Culture] — Sexual Assault at South Asian University in Delhi
  A woman student of South Asian University (SAU) in Delhi was allegedly sexually assaulted by four people on campus, leading to student protests. The student was found injured on October 13, 2025, a day after being reported missing, and an FIR has been registered.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Sexual assault of a woman student at South Asian University (SAU) in Delhi
  • Incident occurred on campus
  • Student found injured on October 13, 2025
  • FIR registered
• 2025-04-08 [Society & Culture] — Kancha Gachibowli Land Controversy
  Students of the University of Hyderabad have launched protests over the proposed auction of 400 acres of land known as Kancha Gachibowli, located within or adjacent to the university campus. The matter has reached the Supreme Court, which took suo motu cognizance, citing destruction of greenery and wildlife presence.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Students of the University of Hyderabad are protesting
  • Protest over the proposed auction of 400 acres of land known as Kancha Gachibowli
  • The Supreme Court took suo motu cognizance
  • Citing destruction of greenery and wildlife presence
• 2025-03-07 [Society & Culture] — Nepali Student Suicide at KIIT
  A Nepali student's suicide at KIIT, Bhubaneswar, due to harassment has sparked protests and highlighted challenges faced by Nepali students in India. The incident raises concerns about fair treatment under the Indo-Nepal Treaty of 1950, particularly Articles 6 and 7, which ensure equal rights for Nepali nationals in India. In 2021-22, Nepali students comprised 28% of foreign students in India.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Incident: Suicide on 16th February 2025
  • Location: Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), Bhubaneswar
  • Indo-Nepal Peace Treaty of 1950: Articles 6 and 7
  • Nepali students: 28% of foreign students in India in 2021-22

State and Judicial Management of Public Protests

Focus: Administrative and judicial actions involving the detention, release, and court-ordered dispersal of protestors across various Indian states.

UPSC Value: Analyzing the balance between the fundamental right to protest and the state's mandate to maintain public order and judicial oversight.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-10-05 [Polity & Governance] — Ladakh administration releases detained youth, assures protection of resources
  The Ladakh administration released 30 out of 70 youths detained over protests in Leh on September 24 and assured that land resources, jobs, and livelihood would remain protected in the region.
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  UPSC Angle: Ladakh administration releases detained youth, assures protection of resources.

  Key Facts:

  • 30
  • 70
  • September 24
  • Leh
• 2025-09-01 [Polity & Governance] — Bombay High Court directs State to stop more Maratha protestors from entering Mumbai
  The Bombay High Court directed the Maharashtra Government to clear protestors from Mumbai streets by Tuesday (September 2, 2025) and prevent any more protestors from entering the city. This order was given by a Special Bench of Justices Ravindra V. Ghuge and Gautam A. Ankhad.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Bombay High Court directed the Maharashtra Government to clear protestors from Mumbai streets by September 2, 2025
  • Special Bench of Justices Ravindra V. Ghuge and Gautam A. Ankhad
• 2025-08-14 [Society & Culture] — Police Detain Protesting Conservancy Workers in Chennai
  In Chennai, police detained conservancy workers of the Greater Chennai Corporation who were protesting against the privatization of conservancy operations in two city zones. Around 400 police personnel were involved in removing the protesting workers.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Chennai
  • Greater Chennai Corporation
  • Conservancy workers
  • Privatization of conservancy operations
  • 400 police personnel