Rising Rape Crimes in India    
Accession of Hyderabad    
India-China Disengagement along the LAC 
India Status Report on Road Safety 2024    
450th Jyoti Jot Diwas of Sri Guru AmardasJi    
Sikh Gurus and Their Major Contributions    

1.Rising Rape Crimes in India
Context:
The surge in rape incidents has led to public outcry, pushing for comprehensive legal reforms, societal behavior changes, and stricter punishments. 
Legal Framework on Rape in India
•    Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023:
o    Defines rape as non-consensual sexual intercourse.
o    Aggravated forms include gang rape and marital rape.
o    Stricter penalties, including life imprisonment and the death penalty in certain cases.
•    Criminal Law (Amendment) Acts, 2013 & 2018:
o    Introduced after the Nirbhaya case.
o    Enhanced penalties for severe cases, including a minimum of 20 years for fatal outcomes.
o    Death penalty for the rape of children below 12.
•    POCSO Act, 2012:
o    Protection of children against sexual offences, harassment, and exploitation.

Victims' Rights
•    Zero FIR:
Victims can lodge FIRs at any police station, irrespective of jurisdiction.
•    Free Medical Treatment:
Mandated under Section 357C of CrPC.
•    No Two-Finger Test:
Declared unconstitutional and banned.
•    Harassment-Free Investigation: Statements to be recorded by female officers and in the presence of guardians for minors.

Challenges Leading to Increased Rape Cases
•    Normalisation of Rape Culture:
Victim-blaming, rape jokes, and misogynistic media portrayals perpetuate violence.
•    Sex Ratio Imbalance:
Disparity in the male-to-female ratio intensifies sexual violence incidents.
•    Inadequate Female Police Representation:
Only 11.75% of the force is female, limiting reporting comfort.
•    Alcoholism & Domestic Abuse:
Both are significant contributors to sexual violence.

Low Conviction Rates
•    Judicial Delays:
Prolonged trials weaken evidence and delay justice.
•    Poor Evidence Collection:
Inefficient investigation practices, exemplified by cases like Hathras (2020).
•    Corruption:
Mishandling and bribery undermine justice delivery. 
Implications of Rising Rape Crimes
•    Restrictions on Women's Movement: Fear of sexual violence reduces women's freedom to engage in public life and career opportunities.
•    Economic Impact:
Costs of medical care and psychological support strain families and public health systems.
•    Erosion of Trust:
Rising crimes damage public confidence in law enforcement and the judiciary.

Way Forward
•    Legal Reforms:
o    Implement Justice Verma Committee Report (2013) recommendations.
o    Criminalize marital rape.
•    Cultural Shifts:
Promote awareness campaigns on consent and respectful behavior.
•    Judicial Reforms:
Speed up trial processes to ensure timely justice.
•    Support Systems for Victims: Strengthen psychological, legal, and medical support for survivors.

Prelims Question:
With reference to the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, consider the following statements:
1.    Marital rape is not considered a crime under the BNS, 2023.
2.    The death penalty is applicable for the gang rape of minors under certain conditions.
3.    Two-finger tests are permitted under BNS, 2023.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A) 1 and 2 only

B)    2 only
C)    1 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: B) 2 only

Mains Question:
Discuss the legal and societal challenges in addressing the rise of rape cases in India. How can legal reforms and cultural changes create a safer environment for women? (250 words)

2.    Accession of Hyderabad
•    Background of Hyderabad:
o    Hyderabad was a large princely state covering parts of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra.
o    Majority Hindu population (87%), ruled by Nizam Osman Ali Khan, a Muslim monarch.
o    The Nizam sought independence and avoided accession to India, which raised concerns about Hyderabad becoming a security threat.
•    Nizam’s Declaration of Independence:
o    In June 1947, the Nizam declared Hyderabad’s intention to remain independent.
o    India signed a Standstill Agreement with Hyderabad to maintain the status quo, while continuing to press for accession.
•    Hyderabad’s Moves Toward Independence:
o The Nizam provided financial support to Pakistan and built up military forces, including the Razakars, a militia that conducted violent suppression. 
•    Operation Polo (Hyderabad PoliceAction):
o    On 13th September 1948, India launched Operation Polo, a military action to integrate Hyderabad, citing law and order issues.
o    By 17th September 1948, the Nizam surrendered, and Hyderabad was integrated into India.

Significance of Hyderabad’s Accession
•    Strengthened National Unity:
o    Integration reinforced India’s territorial integrity and prevented foreign influence.
•    Triumph of Secularism:
o    The accession highlighted the role of Indian Muslims who supported

Prelims Question
Q. With reference to the accession of Hyderabad, consider the following statements:
1.    The majority of Hyderabad’s population was Hindu, but it was ruled by a Muslim Nizam.
2.    Operation Polo was launched by India in 1948 to prevent Hyderabad’s accession to Pakistan.
3.    The Razakars were a pro-Nizam militia known for their violent suppression of opposition.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    1 and 3 only
C)    2 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: B) 1 and 3 only

Hyderabad’s integration into        

secular India.
•    Use of Force to Safeguard National Interest:
o    The operation demonstrated India’s resolve to use military force if required for national security.

Role of Sardar Patel in Integration of Princely States
•    Patel’s Leadership:
o    As Home Minister, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel used a combination of diplomacy and force to integrate Hyderabad and other princely states into India.
•    States Department:
o    He created the States Department under V.P. Menon, responsible for securing accession agreements.

Mains Question
Q. Discuss the strategic and political significance of Hyderabad’s accession to India in 1948. How did it contribute to the consolidation of the Indian Union? (250 words)

3.    India-China Disengagement along the LAC
Context:
India's External Affairs Minister has recently stated that 75% of disengagement issues along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China have been resolved, but challenges remain in areas like Demchok and Depsang Plains.

Key Developments:
•    Resolved Disengagement Areas:
o    Galwan Valley, Pangong Tso, and
Gogra-Hot Springs have seen

OASHUB

mutual disengagement between India and China.
o    Unresolved issues persist in
Demchok and Depsang Plains.
•    Recent Diplomatic Engagements:
o    Talks between India’s NSA Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign

developments have altered the status quo along the LAC.
3.    Risk of Escalation:
o    Continued troop deployments and lack of progress in certain areas increase the risk of miscalculation and potential military escalation.

Minister Wang Yi have positively        

influenced the disengagement process.
o    Upcoming BRICS Summit may further address outstanding issues along the LAC.
•    Ongoing Military Build-Up:
o    Both nations continue to maintain approximately 50,000-60,000 troops along the LAC, raising concerns about future escalation.

Significance of Depsang and Demchok:
•    Depsang Plains:
o    Important due to its proximity to Siachen Glacier, making it vital for both defensive and offensive military strategies.
•    Demchok:
o    Provides a vantage point for monitoring Chinese movements in Aksai Chin, making it crucial for India's national security.

Strategic Importance of Disputed Areas:        

•    Depsang Plains:
o    Critical for India's defense of the Siachen Glacier and access to Aksai Chin.
o    Flat terrain makes it vulnerable to mechanized warfare.
•    Demchok:
o    Key for surveillance over Aksai Chin and crucial for communication and military logistics.

Challenges in the Disengagement Process:
1.    Stalled Negotiations:
o    Despite multiple rounds of talks, no breakthrough has been achieved in Demchok and Depsang.
2.    Infrastructure Development:
o    China's aggressive infrastructure build-up and India's corresponding

Proposed Solutions to Manage the Border Dispute:
•    Clarification of the LAC:
o    Defining the boundary will help prevent future confrontations and misinterpretations.
•    Buffer Zones:
o    Establish permanent buffer zones in conflict-prone areas to maintain peace.
•    Adhering to Agreements:
o    Both countries must uphold existing agreements and avoid escalating military tensions.
•    Utilizing Drones:
o    Implement agreed parameters for the use of drones for surveillance to avoid conflict.
•    Mutual Security Understanding:
o    Formulate a security agreement based on the principle of mutual and equal security.

Conclusion:
The disengagement process between India and China along the LAC has seen progress, but challenges in Demchok and Depsang Plains remain. High-level diplomacy and adherence to established protocols are essential to resolving these issues and maintaining peace. A comprehensive approach involving buffer zones and military de-escalation will be critical to ensure long-term stability in the region.

Prelims Question:
With reference to the Line of Actual Control (LAC), consider the following statements:
1.    The Depsang Plains provide strategic access to Siachen Glacier for India.
2.    Galwan Valley was the first area where India and China agreed to disengage.
3.    Pangong Tso lake is divided into eight
parts known as “Fingers” in military terms.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    1 and 3 only
C)    2 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: D) 1, 2, and 3

Mains Question:
Q: Discuss the strategic significance of the Depsang Plains and Demchok in the ongoing India-China border dispute. How can the disengagement process between the two nations be made more effective to ensure long-term peace along the Line of Actual Control (LAC)? (250 words)

4.    India Status Report on Road Safety 2024
Context:
•    The India Status Report on Road Safety 2024, released by IIT Delhi, highlights India's slow progress in reducing road accident fatalities.
Key Findings:
•    Road Traffic Injuries: Ranked 13th leading cause of mortality and 12th leading cause of health loss in India (2021).
•    Vulnerable Groups: Pedestrians, cyclists, and motorised two-wheeler riders most vulnerable; trucks cause most accidents.
•    State Performance:
o    High death rates per 100,000 people: Tamil Nadu (21.9), Telangana (19.2), Chhattisgarh
(17.6).
o    Low death rates: West Bengal (5.9), Bihar (5.9).
o    Major contributors to fatalities: Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Tamil Nadu.
o    Helmet usage above 50% in only seven states.
Global Comparison:
•    India lags behind global targets, with an increase in road fatalities compared to developed nations.
•    UN's Decade of Action for Road Safety aims to halve traffic deaths by 2030.
National Strategy for Road Safety:
•    Leading Causes of Accidents: Over- speeding (75.2%), driving on the wrong side (5.8%), and driving under influence (2.5%).
•    Demographics of Fatalities:
o    86% male, 67.8% in rural areas. 
o    National highways contribute to a disproportionate number of fatalities.
Supreme Court Interventions:
•    Key measures include setting up road safety councils, trauma care centers, and ensuring road safety education.
Government Initiatives:
•    Motor Vehicles Amendment Act, 2019
•    Carriage by Road Act, 2007
•    National Highways Authority of India Act, 1998
Way Forward:
•    Prioritizing Road Safety: Multi-sectoral coordinated efforts needed.
•    National Crash Database: To track trends and identify high-risk areas.
•    Technology Adoption: Use of AI, smart traffic systems, and data analytics for enhanced safety.
Prelims Question:
With reference to the India Status Report on Road Safety 2024, consider the following statements:
1.    Over-speeding is the leading cause of road accident deaths in India.
2.    National highways constitute only 2.1% of road length but account for the most fatalities.
3.    West Bengal has one of the highest death rates per 100,000 people in India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A) 1 and 2 only
B)    2 and 3 only
C)    1 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: A) 1 and 2 only
Mains Question:
Discuss the key findings of the India Status Report on Road Safety 2024 and suggest measures to

improve road safety outcomes in India. (250 words)

5.    450th Jyoti Jot Diwas of Sri Guru Amardas Ji
Context:
•    17th September 2024 marked the 450th Jyoti Jot Diwas (passing away day) of Sri Guru Amardas Ji, the third Sikh Guru.
Key Highlights:
•    Born: 1479 in Basarke, Amritsar.
•    Guru Appointment: Became the third Sikh Guru in 1552 at age 73.
•    Headquarters: Goindwal, Punjab.
Major Contributions:
•    Administrative Reforms: Divided Sikh community into 22 districts (Manjis) for better governance.
•    Guru Ka Langar: Reinforced the tradition, emphasizing equality by ensuring visitors ate together before meeting him.
•    Social Reforms:
o    Abolished practices like Sati and Purdah among Sikhs.
o    Introduced the Anand Karaj marriage ceremony.
•    Interaction with Akbar: Persuaded Akbar to abolish the pilgrim’s tax for non- Muslims.
•    Religious Contribution: Composed 869 verses, including Anand Sahib, later incorporated into Guru Granth Sahib.
•    Baoli at Goindwal: Constructed a well, making Goindwal Sahib a significant Sikh pilgrimage site.
Legacy:
•    Passed Away: 1st September 1574, leaving a profound impact on Sikhism and social reform.
Sikh Gurus and Their Major Contributions:

Guru    Period    Key Contributions
Guru Nanak Dev    1469-
1539    Founder of Sikhism; started 'Guru ka Langar'; contemporary of Babur.
Guru Angad Dev    1504-
1552    Invented Gurmukhi script; popularized 'Guru ka Langar'.

Guru Amar Das    
1479-
1574    Abolished Sati and Purdah; introduced Anand Karaj marriage; contemporary of Akbar.
Guru Ram Das    1534-
1581    Founded Amritsar; initiated construction of Golden Temple.
Guru Arjun Dev    1563-
1606    Composed Adi Granth; completed Golden Temple; executed by Jahangir.
Guru Hargobind    1594-
1644    Established Akal Takht; transformed Sikhs into a military community.
Guru Har Rai    1630-
1661    Focused on missionary work; promoted peace with Aurangzeb.
Guru Har Krishan    1656-
1664    Youngest Guru; summoned by Aurangzeb.
Guru Teg Bahadur    1621-
1675    Founded Anandpur Sahib.
Guru Gobind Singh    
1666-
1708    Founded Khalsa in 1699; introduced "Pahul"; last Guru to pass Guruship to Guru Granth Sahib.

Prelims Question:
Consider the following statements regarding Sri Guru Amardas Ji:
1.    He divided the Sikh community into 22 administrative districts.

2.    He introduced the Anand Karaj marriage ceremony.
3.    He persuaded Emperor Akbar to abolish the pilgrim’s tax for Hindus only.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A) 1 and 2 only
B)    2 and 3 only
C)    1 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: A) 1 and 2 only

Mains Question:
Discuss the significant contributions of Sri Guru Amardas Ji to Sikhism and social reforms in India. How did his leadership influence the socio-religious fabric of the Sikh community and society at large? (250 words)