South Africa files ICJ case accusing Israel of ‘genocidal acts’ in Gaza
South Africa initiated legal proceedings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) against Israel for alleged “genocidal” actions in Gaza. Israel rejected the case, stating that it was “disgusted” by the allegations. The ICJ application pertains to purported violations by Israel of its obligations under the Genocide Convention and claims that “Israel has engaged in, is engaging in, and risks further engaging in genocidal acts against the Palestinian people in Gaza.”
Budget session the only window to ensure implementation of CAA ahead of 2024 polls
A senior government official stated that there is a one-month window for the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) to be implemented before the next Budget session, expected to commence on February 1, 2024. Once the model code of conduct is enforced, legislative work, such as notifying the rules of CAA by publishing them in the official gazette, cannot take place. The Winter session of Parliament, which concluded on December 21, was the last working session of the current Lok Sabha to clear key legislative work.
Collect COVID data to take decisions, prepare systems: Experts
COVID cases have surged over the last four weeks, with the JN.1 variant becoming the predominant strain. Experts emphasize the importance of collecting data to make decisions in anticipation of and in response to surges in the future. They stress the need to have vaccines and drugs ready for use if necessary.
Kerala seeks guidelines from Supreme Court on circumstances under which Governor can reserve Bills for President’s consideration
Kerala has approached the Supreme Court to establish guidelines on the circumstances under which the Governor may reserve Bills presented to him for the consideration of the President, withhold his assent, or return them to the Legislative Assembly. The State is seeking the Court’s intervention to interpret the phrase “as soon as possible” in the first proviso to Article 200 of the Constitution pertaining to the timeline for the disposal of Bills presented to the Governor.
Interest rates up on two schemes; PPF remains static
The Union government has decided to increase the returns on the Sukanya Samriddhi Account Scheme (SSAS) and 3-year time deposits for the first quarter of 2024, while keeping the interest rates for all other small savings schemes unchanged. The interest rates on the popular Public Provident Fund (PPF) remain frozen for another quarter despite expectations of a reset.
JD(U) attacks BJP, framing 2024 Lok Sabha poll as a battle to save democracy and the Constitution
At the Janata Dal (United) national council meeting, the party issued a scathing political resolution accusing the BJP of undermining the rights of backward communities, Dalits, Adivasis, and minority groups. The resolution comes amid speculation about the party’s alignment ahead of the 2024 general election.
Peace pact with ULFA paves way for lasting progress in Assam: PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the peace pact signed by the central and Assam governments with ULFA, stating that the agreement sets the stage for enduring progress in the state. The pact involves the ULFA’s pro-talks faction agreeing to renounce violence, surrender all arms, disband the organization, and participate in the democratic process.
UK says Venezuelan military exercise near Guyana border ‘unjustified’
Britain condemned Venezuela’s actions after the country ordered over 5,600 armed forces personnel to participate in a military exercise near the border with Guyana in response to the UK sending a warship to the area. President Nicolas Maduro stated that the military action was a defensive response to perceived threats by the United Kingdom.
SpaceX launches secretive U.S. military spacecraft on research mission
SpaceX’s Falcon Heavy rocket successfully launched the U.S. military’s secretive X-37B drone to a research mission. After a series of delays, the uncrewed and autonomously operating spacecraft embarked on its seventh mission, with its destination remaining undisclosed.
Real estate boom in Ayodhya ignites concerns over encroachment of Waqf properties
Concerns have been raised about the encroachment on Waqf properties in Ayodhya amid a surge in real estate development. Mohammad Azam Qadri, president of the Sunni Central Waqf Board sub-committee, Ayodhya, has voiced distress over ongoing encroachment on Muslim cemeteries, Idgahs, and mosques, urging authorities to protect the Waqf properties.
Argentina formally rejects BRICS membership
Argentine President Javier Milei has formally rejected an invitation to join the BRICS grouping, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, alongside six other countries. The decision to decline BRICS membership was communicated to the group’s leaders, with the membership due to take effect from January 1, 2024.
J&K BJP leaders meet families of slain civilians
BJP leaders visited the families of three civilians who allegedly died following torture in custody in Poonch district’s Pir Panjal Valley. The leaders assured the families of stern action against the culprits. Mobile Internet services, which were suspended for a week, have been restored in the region.
India in South Africa | India’s capitulation was worryingly swift
India suffered a swift and worrying defeat in the First Test against South Africa. The Test match concluded well ahead of schedule due to India’s collapse, prompting concerns from Indian fans about the team’s performance.