18 MAY NEWSPAPER NOTES

R2R - GUIDING SSB ASPIRANTS LIKE AN ELDER SIBLING

Sun May 18, 2025

NEWSPAPER NOTES

R2R SSB BATCHES START EVERY 1ST & 15TH of month.

Referred articles were published in The Hindu.

1. How is Cyberbullying Tackled Under the Law?

Background:

  • The article addresses the legal framework in India for tackling cyberbullying, particularly in the absence of a dedicated law specifically addressing online harassment.
  • It questions the adequacy of existing provisions under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and the Information Technology Act, 2000, in addressing the complexities of online abuse.
  • The article highlights the pervasive nature of cyberbullying, including online stalking, doxxing, morphing, and the spread of harmful content.
  • It notes the significant impact of cyberbullying on victims, particularly women and children, leading to distress, fear, and reputational damage.
The situation now:
  • The article examines various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Information Technology Act (IT Act) that are invoked in cases of cyberbullying.
  • These include sections related to assault or criminal force with intent to outrage modesty (Section 354), sexual harassment (Section 354A), stalking (Section 354D), defamation (Section 499), criminal intimidation (Section 506), and publishing or transmitting obscene material (Section 67 of the IT Act).
  • The existing legal framework is described as fragmented and often inadequate to address the unique challenges posed by online abuse, such as its rapid spread and anonymity.
  • The concept of "obscenity" and "frivolous or fraudulent" online content is highlighted as lacking clear definitions, leading to difficulties in prosecution.
  • The article mentions Section 69A of the IT Act, which empowers the government to block online content for reasons such as sovereignty, security, and public order. However, concerns about its potential misuse and impact on free speech are raised.
  • A Supreme Court ruling in 2015 striking down Section 66A of the IT Act (related to offensive online content) is referenced, underscoring the challenges in creating cyber laws that balance safety and freedom of expression.
  • Recent incidents, such as online harassment targeting journalists and activists, illustrate the ongoing problem of cyberbullying and the difficulties in holding perpetrators accountable.
Way forward:
  • The article suggests the need for clearer and more comprehensive legal definitions of online offenses like cyberbullying, harassment, and stalking.
  • Strengthening the enforcement of existing laws and ensuring their effective application in the digital context is crucial.
  • Addressing the issue of intermediaries' liability and platform accountability in curbing the spread of harmful online content is important.
  • Raising awareness about cyberbullying and providing support mechanisms for victims are essential preventive and reactive measures.
  • Exploring the need for specific legislation dedicated to addressing cyberbullying, taking into account international best practices, is suggested.
  • Ensuring that any legal framework balances the need to protect individuals from online harm with the fundamental right to freedom of speech and expression is critical.
  • The challenges of cross-jurisdictional cyberbullying and the need for international cooperation in tackling online abuse are also highlighted.
2. Examining the Shifting Landscape of the Kashmir Issue
Background:
  • The article analyzes the evolving international perspective and India's foreign policy approach towards the Kashmir issue.
  • It notes the inconsistencies in former U.S. President Donald Trump's statements regarding mediation between India and Pakistan.
  • The U.S. initially appeared to consider a role in the Kashmir dispute but has since seemingly stepped back.
  • India has consistently maintained that Kashmir is a bilateral issue and has resisted third-party intervention.
The situation now:
  • India's current stance emphasizes direct dialogue with Pakistan on the Kashmir issue, without external mediation.
  • India points to Pakistan's alleged support for cross-border terrorism as a major impediment to resolving the issue.
  • India has highlighted its efforts to normalize the situation in Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370.
  • The international community's understanding of the Kashmir issue has seemingly shifted over time.
  • While some countries initially supported international intervention, there's a growing recognition of India's position that it's a bilateral matter.
  • The U.S. has seemingly aligned more closely with India's stance in recent years, emphasizing direct talks between India and Pakistan.
  • However, there are still voices within the international community that advocate for a more active role in facilitating a resolution.
  • The article notes the challenges in achieving a lasting solution due to the complex historical, political, and security dimensions of the issue.
Way forward:
  • India is likely to continue prioritizing direct engagement with Pakistan to discuss the Kashmir issue, while firmly opposing third-party mediation.
  • Maintaining a consistent and clear diplomatic stance on the bilateral nature of the issue will remain crucial.
  • India will likely continue to emphasize the need for Pakistan to take credible and verifiable action against cross-border terrorism.
  • Building trust and fostering a conducive environment for dialogue with Pakistan will be essential.
  • Engaging with the international community to articulate India's perspective and address concerns remains important.
  • Any lasting resolution to the Kashmir issue will likely require sustained diplomatic efforts and a willingness from both India and Pakistan to find common ground.
  • The focus will likely be on confidence-building measures and incremental steps towards normalizing relations and addressing outstanding issues.

NEWS IN SHORTS

  • India stops Bangladeshi exports via all land ports: India has temporarily stopped all exports from Bangladesh through its land ports, with the exception of cargo shipments going through the ports of Kolkata and Mumbai, where consignments will be subject to "mandatory inspections." This decision follows reports of alleged aggressive checking of Indian trucks on the Bangladeshi side.
  • PM to launch revamped National Manuscripts Mission on June 9: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch the revamped National Manuscripts Mission (NMM) on June 9. The mission, which aims to survey, document, and conserve India's manuscript heritage, will have a significantly increased budgetary allocation and a focus on digitizing and making these resources accessible.
  • CBSE asks schools to put up boards to reveal bitter truths of high sugar intake: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has directed affiliated schools to establish "sugar boards" to monitor and educate students about the risks of high sugar intake, noting a significant increase in Type 2 diabetes among children, often linked to the easy availability of sugary snacks and processed foods in school environments.
  • Member states pledge aid, troops to United Nations peacekeeping missions: India, one of the largest troop contributors to UN peacekeeping operations, along with other member states, has pledged additional troops, police personnel, and resources to enhance the capabilities and effectiveness of UN peacekeeping missions around the world.
  • The Promise of Green Energy: Focus on Wind Potential : As the pre-monsoon season progresses in India, the article highlights the significant potential of wind energy as a crucial component of the country's shift towards a low-carbon energy future. While solar energy is a key focus, wind power, particularly during the monsoon season when wind speeds are favorable, offers a reliable and substantial source of renewable electricity. The article discusses the importance of accurate wind forecasting and mapping, noting the advancements made by institutions like the National Institute of Wind Energy in developing tools for wind farm planning. It emphasizes that harnessing wind energy, alongside other renewables, is critical for reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating climate change.

Sachin Jangir

AIR 128 - NDA 152

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