Current Affairs Lexicon [Prelims]- May, 2024

Polity & Governance

Article 239AB

Article 239AB of the Constitution of India allows for the imposition of President’s Rule in Union Territories like Delhi when there is a failure of constitutional machinery. This article was invoked only once in 2014, following Kejriwal’s resignation after 49 days in office. It has been in the news recently as discussions arose about its potential application due to Kejriwal’s arrest, which has stalled administrative functions, prompting concerns over governance and the balance of power between the elected government and the Lieutenant Governor.

Article 361

Article 361 of the Constitution of India provides immunity to the President and Governors from legal proceedings while in office. This means they cannot be prosecuted or arrested for actions taken in their official capacity. The article aims to ensure that these high officials can perform their duties without fear of legal repercussions. It has been in the news due to ongoing debates about its implications, especially in cases involving serious allegations like sexual harassment against governors.

Article 371(A)

Article 371(A) of the Constitution of India grants special provisions to Nagaland, protecting its unique cultural and social practices. This article has been pivotal in the debate over women’s reservations in local elections, as tribal bodies argue that such reservations violate their customary laws. The article underscores the tension between constitutional mandates and local traditions, making it a critical element in the ongoing discussions about governance and representation in Nagaland’s political framework.

Article 371C

Article 371C of the Constitution of India provides special provisions for the state of Manipur, particularly concerning the rights of tribal communities over land and resources. It restricts non-tribal individuals from purchasing land in designated tribal areas, aiming to protect the interests of indigenous populations. This article has been an important point of contention in the current conflict, as the Meitei community seeks to acquire land in these areas, leading to fears among tribal groups about their rights and territories.

Baroda Dynamite Case

The Baroda Dynamite Case involved George Fernandes and others accused of waging war against the state by allegedly stockpiling explosives to disrupt government operations. The case emerged during the Emergency in 1976, leading to their arrest. The CBI investigated the matter, and the trial was marked by media attention. Ultimately, the case was withdrawn in 1977 after the Janata Party came to power, denoting the political turmoil of the time and the shifting landscape of Indian governance.

Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso is a landlocked country in West Africa, bordered by Mali, Niger, Benin, Togo, Ghana, and Ivory Coast. It has a diverse culture with over 60 ethnic groups and is known for its vibrant music and art. The country has faced political instability, including multiple coups. Recently, it was in the news due to a military junta extending its rule for another five years, raising concerns about democracy and security in the region.

Digital Leninism

Digital Leninism refers to the use of technology and data by authoritarian regimes to suppress dissent and maintain control. This term marks how modern surveillance systems, like those in China, are employed to enforce a singular ideological narrative. It has gained attention as governments increasingly rely on digital tools to monitor citizens. The concept underscores the dangers of merging technology with totalitarian governance, raising alarms about privacy and civil liberties in the digital age.

Kanak People

The Kanak people are the indigenous inhabitants of New Caledonia, with a rich cultural heritage and a history of resistance against colonial rule. They have faced challenges, including poverty and unemployment, due to historical segregation policies. The Kanak community has been at the forefront of the recent protests against constitutional changes proposed by France, which they believe threaten their autonomy and rights. Their struggle for self-determination has been a central issue in New Caledonia’s political landscape.

Noumea Accord

The Noumea Accord, signed in 1998, aimed to provide greater autonomy to New Caledonia and address the historical grievances of the Kanak people. It established a framework for political negotiations and multiple referendums on independence. The Accord has been in shaping the territory’s governance and has been a source of hope for many Kanaks. However, recent events, including proposed changes to electoral rolls, have raised ...

Originally written on May 26, 2024 and last modified on September 28, 2025.

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