The Supreme Court has announced that all Stage 4 emergency measures to deal with Delhi's hazardous air quality will continue until at least Monday, with a review scheduled for December 2. In related news, an explosion near a theatre and an attack on Enforcement Directorate officials in Bijwasan serve as an alarming reminder of the severe consequences of the city's pollution crisis. Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court has issued notices on a PIL seeking the implementation of Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana in the national capital.
Delhi's Air Quality Crisis: Supreme Court Extends Emergency Measures
In response to Delhi's persistent hazardous air quality, the Supreme Court has mandated that Stage 4 emergency measures remain in place until at least Monday, December 2. The court will review the situation on that date.
Background:
Delhi has been grappling with severe air pollution for years, primarily due to vehicle emissions, construction activities, and industrial pollution. The problem is exacerbated during winter months due to meteorological conditions that trap pollutants near the ground.
In the past, the city has implemented various measures to combat air pollution, including the odd-even vehicle rationing scheme, but these have had limited success.
Current Measures:
The Stage 4 emergency measures currently in place include:
Recent Events:
In addition to the air quality crisis, Delhi has recently witnessed two alarming incidents:
FAQs:
Q1: Why are Stage 4 emergency measures being implemented? A1: The measures are necessary to reduce air pollution levels that have reached hazardous levels and pose a significant health risk to residents.
Q2: How long will the measures remain in place? A2: The measures will remain in place until at least December 2, when the Supreme Court will review the situation.
Q3: What are the consequences of Delhi's air pollution crisis? A3: Air pollution in Delhi has been linked to an increase in respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, as well as premature deaths. The crisis also has economic implications, such as reduced productivity and tourism.
Q4: What is the government doing to address air pollution in Delhi? A4: The government has implemented various measures, including the odd-even vehicle rationing scheme, restrictions on construction activities, and promotion of public transportation.
Q5: What can individuals do to help improve air quality in Delhi? A5: Individuals can reduce their carbon footprint by opting for public transportation, walking, or cycling. They can also conserve energy at home and reduce the use of personal vehicles.
A man identified as former Babbar Khalsa International terrorist Narain Singh Chaura attempted to shoot Sukhbir Singh Badal, a leader of the Shiromani Akali Dal, at the entrance of the Golden Temple in Amritsar on Tuesday. However, due to the quick reflexes and actions of an unknown man wearing an orange turban, the bullet was prevented from being fired, and Chaura was overpowered and arrested by the crowd. Badal, who was serving a religious punishment at the temple's entrance, was unharmed.
After announcing a surprise martial law order, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol faces pushback from MPs who quickly gathered at the National Assembly and voted to block his move. Demonstrators also gathered outside parliament to protest the sudden military rule. Less than two hours after his declaration, President Yoon reverses course, with some attributing the decision to his controversial and weakened position as a lame duck president. In response, the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions has called for nationwide strikes until Yoon resigns, labeling his actions as a "crime of insurrection."
On December 3, 2024, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law across the nation. This drastic measure, the first in nearly 50 years, was justified by the government as necessary to protect democracy and public safety. The announcement, made at 10 p.m. local time, came amid a political turmoil stemming from opposition parties' recent election victory and subsequent legislative deadlock. The official declaration outlined strict measures, including banning all political activities and placing media outlets under martial law control. Violators will face severe penalties as outlined in the Martial Law Act. Stay informed with the latest developments by subscribing to NewsX.
T Harish Rao, a popular grassroots leader and former minister from the ruling Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) party in Telangana, has found himself embroiled in a major political controversy as he was booked in a case of alleged illegal phone tapping. The case has caused a stir in the state's political landscape, particularly due to Rao's close ties to party chief and former Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao. The incident has sparked widespread debates and discussions about the ethics and legality of phone tapping in politics.
In response to the sudden declaration of emergency martial law in South Korea and the subsequent control near the president's office, the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) has announced an indefinite general strike. The strike, which will begin at 9 a.m. at Gwanghwamun, is a massive show of defiance against the government's actions. The White House has also stated that they were not notified in advance of the martial law declaration, adding further tension to the already volatile situation. Meanwhile, singer Park Hyo-shin has announced his highly anticipated return with a new album after a hiatus of 5 years.
The West Bengal Assembly passed a resolution urging the withdrawal of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 in Parliament. BJP legislators staged a walkout during the discussion on the resolution, opposing it. Minister Sovandeb Chattopadhyay, who moved the resolution, stated that the bill, if passed, will have a negative impact on Waqf administration in the country. However, Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari argued that the resolution was a waste of time as a Joint Parliamentary Committee had been formed to examine the bill, and its term has been extended till 2025.
President Yoon Suk Yeol's declaration of martial law in South Korea has caused widespread concern, with the military taking over civilian government and suspending basic civil liberties. The president has cited the opposition's supposed ties to North Korea and their obstruction of government affairs as the reason for this extreme measure. However, many are questioning the motives behind this move, with concerns of a political power grab and potential abuse of power.
In a surprise late-night TV address, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law and accused the country's opposition of controlling parliament, showing sympathy towards North Korea, and obstructing the government with anti-state activities. As photos and videos of tanks rolling into Seoul and troops securing the parliament surface, questions arise about the extent of the measures and their impact on democracy. President Yoon's popularity has declined in recent months as he struggles to push his agenda against an opposition-controlled parliament since taking office in 2022.
After weeks of uncertainty and squabbles, the Maharashtra government formation finally came to an end as Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde agreed to take the post of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister in the Mahayuti alliance. However, there are indications of further disagreements over portfolios between the alliance partners. The deadlock was possibly broken after BJP leader and likely CM-elect Devendra Fadnavis met with Shinde at his residence in Mumbai. This comes after Shinde's sudden illness and unplanned departure to his hometown following his talks with the BJP leadership in Delhi last week, sparking rumors of dissent within the alliance. However, Shinde's camp dismissed these rumors and stated that he is not adamant for the top position and will accept the BJP's decision.
South Korean Finance Minister Kim Dong-yeon condemned the President's recent actions as anti-constitutional and stated that the people would not stand for it. As tensions rise, parties and officials clash at the parliament building while traffic control is enforced around the presidential office. Meanwhile, foreign media have declared a state of emergency following the government's actions.