The Hindu Newspaper Analysis

Editorial Topic : Indian Military Export to Israel — Aiding Genocide

 GS-2 Mains Exam : IR

Revision Notes

Context

• Supreme Court dismissed a petition challenging Indian military exports to Israel during the ongoing war.
• Raises questions about judicial review over executive decisions in matters of foreign policy, especially concerning violations of humanitarian law.

Introduction

• Petition sought suspension of existing licenses and withholding of further licenses for exporting military equipment to Israel.
• Court dismissed the petition but issued a detailed judgment.
• Raises important questions about judicial review and executive decisions in matters of foreign policy and international humanitarian law violations.

The ICJ Opinion

• ICJ ordered provisional measures against Israel in January for violations in the Gaza strip.
• UN experts warned against the transfer of weapons to Israel due to the risk of complicity in international crimes.
• ICJ declared Israel’s presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory unlawful.
• ICJ observed that all states are under an obligation not to render aid or assistance to Israel.
• ICJ adjudications in Nicaragua vs Germany highlighted the importance of adhering to international obligations regarding arms transfers.
• Global challenges and responses to arms exports to Israel.
• India’s obligations under the Genocide Convention and Geneva Convention.

Where the Supreme Court Failed

• India’s obligation to interpret domestic law in light of international obligations.
• Court’s ruling that international obligations are not binding due to Israel’s non-involvement.
• Court’s focus on allegations against Israel rather than India’s conduct.
• ICJ’s detailed order on Israel’s violations and the need for India to prevent genocide.
• Court’s rationale for not suspending licenses is misplaced.
• India’s self-imposed restraint on courts entering areas of foreign policy.

Conclusion: The Fallout

• Supreme Court’s failure to ensure India halts military aid to Israel has serious repercussions.
• Limits of judicial review in matters of foreign policy, especially concerning humanitarian law violations.
• Risks further deterioration of the Palestinian crisis due to India’s ongoing military aid to Israel.

 

 

The Hindu Newspaper Analysis

Editorial Topic : Women-Led Development in the Rajya Sabha

 GS-2 Mains Exam : Polity

Revision Notes

Context

• Women-led development is a cornerstone of the government’s priorities.
• Rajya Sabha under Jagdeep Dhankar’s chairmanship is leading by example.

Introduction

• Women-led development approach recognizes women as key participants in planning and decision-making.
• India’s legislature cannot afford to be left behind in women-led governance and development initiatives.

What are the Women-Centric Measures Taken?

• Women inclusive democracy: Vice-President Dhankar has introduced progressive measures in the proceedings of the House and Secretariat.
• Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam (Women’s Reservation Bill), 2023: Reconstituted the panel of vice-chairpersons to include only women.
• Women nomination increased: Began the practice of nominating four women members for the panel of vice-chairpersons.
• Phangnon Konyak and P.T. Usha became the first woman Rajya Sabha member from Nagaland and the first nominated MP to become Vice Chairperson, respectively.
• G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration: Underscored investing in the empowerment of all women and girls.
• Gender Equality: India is working towards goal 5.5 of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Initiatives in the Secretariat

• Breaking stereotypes: Introduced House-related duties for women officers.
• Empowering women staff: Women officers are leading House duties and using the ‘Vahan’ app for commutation facilities.
• Women-led growth: Dhankar emphasizes women-led development as the future roadmap for the Rajya Sabha Secretariat.
• Women in leadership roles: Women officers have been appointed in key positions and leading roles.
• Gender sensitization initiatives: Selection of a woman officer as a master trainer for iGOT-Karmayogi Bharat.
• Promoting innovation: Celebration of women’s day in the Secretariat.

Way Forward

• Regular interactions between the legislature and academia.
• Rajya Sabha under Dhankar’s chairmanship is leading by example in translating women-led development into reality.
• Paves the way for other legislatures in India to follow suit.
• Enables India to progress towards Vikasit Bharat @ 2047.