Current Affairs [Prelims] Lexicon – July, 2024
Polity & Governance
3.5 Per Cent Rule
The 3.5 per cent rule is a concept in political science stating that non-violent movements that mobilize at least 3.5% of a country’s population are almost always successful in achieving political change. The rule was popularized by Erica Chenoweth based on research of over 300 campaigns and protests between 1900 and 2006. It marks that visible protest participation is a critical threshold for regime change, though many more supporters may exist beyond active protesters. This rule applies mainly to non-violent campaigns, as violent uprisings tend to have lower success rates.
Why in news?
Referenced in a recent study on global protests, the 3.5 per cent rule explains why mass participation is crucial for successful non-violent movements like the People Power Revolution and others analyzed in the latest Nature article.
42nd Constitutional Amendment (1976)
The 42nd Constitutional Amendment is one of the most and controversial amendments in India’s history. Enacted during the Emergency period (1975-77), it shifted ‘education’ from the State list to the Concurrent list, allowing both the Centre and States to legislate on education. This amendment also added the words Socialist and Secular to the Preamble and extended the tenure of the Lok Sabha from five to six years. It was ratified by a majority of states without extensive debate. The amendment centralized power, leading to political backlash and partial reversals in subsequent amendments.
Why in news?
The 42nd amendment is referenced regarding the ongoing debate on whether education should remain a concurrent subject or be returned fully to the States amid controversies in national exams like NEET and UGC-NET.
All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968
The All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968 govern the behavior of IAS, IPS, and Indian Forest Service officers. Rule 3(1) mandates absolute integrity and devotion to duty. Rule 4(1) prohibits using official influence for family employment. In 2014, sub-rules were added emphasizing ethical standards, political neutrality, accountability, and transparency. Officers must make decisions solely in public interest, declare private interests, avoid financial obligations influencing duties, and not misuse their position for personal gain. Rule 11(1) allows gift acceptance from close relations with reporting obligations if the value exceeds Rs 25,000, last updated in 2015.
Why in news?
These rules are central to the investigation of IAS probationer Puja Khedkar’s alleged misconduct and misuse of privileges during her probation period.
Amicus Curiae
An amicus curiae is a person or organization appointed by a court to assist in a case by offering expertise or impartial advice. The term means “friend of the court” in Latin. This role is distinct from a regular party, as the amicus does not represent either side but provides information that may aid judicial decision-making. In India, amicus curiae appointments are common in complex or sensitive cases. They can be senior advocates, experts, or NGOs. Their submissions are considered by the court but are not binding. The concept originated in English common law and is widely used globally.
Why in news?
Senior advocate Vijay Hansaria was appointed amicus curiae by the Supreme Court to assess legal representation for over 1.5 lakh convicts in Indian prisons.
Article 131 of the Constitution of India
Article 131 grants the Supreme Court original jurisdiction to adjudicate disputes between the Union and one or more States. It excludes other courts from hearing these disputes. The Article is limited to cases involving the existence or extent of a legal right between the parties. Article 131’s jurisdiction is subject to other constitutional provisions , notably Article 262, which bars the Supreme Court from hearing inter-State river disputes. The term Government of India under Article 131 is distinct from the broader definition of State in Articles 12 and 36, limiting which entities qualify under this Article.
Why in news?
The Supreme Court clarified the scope of Article 131 in a case involving the CBI’s authority and the dispute between West Bengal and the Union Government regarding FIR registrations.
Article 153 of the Constitution of India
Article 153 mandates that each state of India shall have a Governor . However, a 1956 constitutional amendment allows one person to be appointed Governor for multiple states simultaneously. The Governor acts as the constitutional head of ...