The Hindu Newspaper Analysis

Editorial Topic : Two States: Overview of Upcoming Elections

 GS-2 Mains Exam : Polity

Revision Notes

 

 

Introduction

• Upcoming Elections: Assembly elections in Haryana and Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) are scheduled between September 18 and October 1, testing India’s democratic institutions and the Election Commission of India (ECI).

Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) Elections

• First Since 2019: These are the first elections in J&K since it lost statehood and Ladakh became a separate UT in 2019.
• Vote Counting: Following a three-phase poll in J&K and a single-phase in Haryana, vote counting is set for October 4.
• Other State Elections: Maharashtra and Jharkhand elections will be announced later, while Haryana and Maharashtra went to polls together in 2019.
• Phased Elections: Security concerns and festivals are cited as reasons for holding elections in batches of two.

Significance for J&K

• Democratization: A new elected government in J&K could be a first step towards a sustainable political process post-2019 reorganization.
• Voter Enthusiasm & Violence: High voter turnout in general elections contrasts with ongoing violent insurgency, reflecting the complex situation in Kashmir.
• Emergence of New Political Actors: Fair and transparent elections are crucial for healthy democracy and could lead to new political players emerging in Kashmir.
• Political Agendas: Ruling and opposition parties often focus on issues of discontent; they should instead prioritize important issues.
• Social Interest: The Agnipath short service scheme by the Centre is of significant interest in a state where many youth seek military careers.

Conclusion

• National Impact: The outcomes in these Assembly elections will influence more than just the two states/UTs. The 2024 general election loosened the BJP’s grip, giving the Opposition new momentum. The elections will determine if this trend continues or reverses.
• High Stakes: With high stakes, political parties must focus on democracy, reform, and robust internal security.

 

 

The Hindu Newspaper Analysis

Editorial Topic : Back from the Brink: An Overview

 GS-2 Mains Exam : IR

Revision Notes

Introduction

• Sri Lanka’s Presidential Election: Scheduled for September 21, 2024, the election sees 39 candidates competing, signaling a return to normalcy after the 2022 economic crisis.

Presidential Context

• Democratic Process: 39 candidates indicate a robust democratic process, with President Ranil Wickremesinghe running as an independent.
• Economic Stability: Wickremesinghe highlights stability achieved during his tenure, supported by the SLPP, led by Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Challenges Faced

• Economic Crisis (2022): Triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic, Easter bombings, unsustainable debt, and the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
• Debt and IMF Support: Sri Lanka secured IMF support, backed by India, with a debt treatment plan involving the Paris Club.
• Inflation: Price hikes followed early recovery, with slight relief recently in essentials.

Competitors to Wickremesinghe

• Main Rivals: Sajith Premadasa (Samagi Jana Balawegaya), Anura Kumara Dissanayake (Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna), and Namal Rajapaksa (SLPP).
• Aragalaya Influence: Dissanayake seeks to harness the Aragalaya movement’s anti-establishment sentiment.

Way Forward

• Restoration of Provincial Councils: Candidates should push for reviving councils, essential for autonomy under the 13th Amendment.
• Democratic Revival: A functioning democracy is vital for economic recovery and maintaining balanced relations with India.