Fundamental Rights and Social Justice — Current Affairs 2026
Current Affairs Connections
Supreme Court Upholds Electoral Bonds Scheme Abrogation, Citing Right to Information
February 15, 2024In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of India struck down the electoral bonds scheme, which allowed anonymous political funding, as unconstitutional. The Court primarily held that the scheme violated the citizens' fundamental Right to Information, a facet of Article 19(1)(a) (freedom of speech and expression). The judgment emphasized the importance of transparency in electoral processes for a healthy democracy and underscored that the right to know about political funding is essential for making informed choices during elections. This ruling reinforces the judiciary's role in safeguarding fundamental rights against legislative actions that may undermine democratic principles.
UPSC Angle: This event is critical for understanding the dynamic interpretation of Article 19(1)(a) and its connection to democratic accountability. It highlights the judiciary's role in upholding constitutional morality and transparency, a recurring theme in GS-2 Polity and Governance. Aspirants should analyze the balance between privacy of donors and the public's right to know, and the implications for electoral reforms.
Debate Intensifies on Digital Personal Data Protection Act and Article 21's Right to Privacy
Ongoing through 2024-2025Following the enactment of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDP Act) in 2023, discussions are intensifying regarding its implementation and potential impact on the fundamental Right to Privacy (established in Puttaswamy judgment under Article 21). Concerns are being raised about the broad exemptions granted to government agencies, the adequacy of data fiduciary obligations, and the effectiveness of the Data Protection Board. The balance between state surveillance, national security, and individual privacy remains a contentious issue, with several legal challenges and policy debates expected in the coming years as India navigates its digital future.
UPSC Angle: This ongoing development is highly relevant for GS-2 (Polity, Governance, Social Justice) and GS-3 (Science & Technology, Internal Security). It requires understanding the nuances of the Right to Privacy, the implications of the DPDP Act, and the challenges of balancing fundamental rights with national security and economic interests in the digital age. Questions on digital rights, surveillance, and data governance are highly probable.
Supreme Court Urges Parliament to Consider Legalizing Same-Sex Marriage, Citing Equality Principles
October 17, 2023 (Judgment), Ongoing Debate 2024-2025While the Supreme Court in 2023 declined to legalize same-sex marriage, it acknowledged the discrimination faced by same-sex couples and urged Parliament to consider enacting appropriate legislation. The Court emphasized that the state has an obligation to recognize and protect the rights of same-sex couples, drawing upon the principles of equality (Article 14), non-discrimination (Article 15), and dignity (Article 21). This ongoing constitutional dialogue highlights the evolving understanding of social justice and the role of the legislature in addressing the rights of marginalized communities, even when the judiciary refrains from direct intervention.
UPSC Angle: This issue is crucial for understanding the evolving jurisprudence on LGBTQ+ rights, the interplay between judicial pronouncements and legislative action, and the application of Fundamental Rights (Articles 14, 15, 21) to ensure social justice for all citizens. It's highly relevant for GS-1 (Society), GS-2 (Polity, Social Justice), and Essay, focusing on constitutional morality and inclusive governance.