Polity & Governance

D Voters

D voters are a category unique to Assam , created by the Election Commission in 1997. Individuals marked as D voters are those whose citizenship is doubtful due to inadequate proof of nationality. They are barred from voting until their status is resolved. The designation affects lakhs of people, often leading to detention or exclusion from electoral rolls. D voters cannot obtain essential identity documents like Aadhaar or PAN cards. Their cases are adjudicated by Foreigners Tribunals , and many face prolonged legal battles. The status has socio-political consequences, impacting families and communities across Assam .

Why in news?

The Assam Assembly debated the plight of D voters, demanding closure of the states only detention centre and tabling of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) report, denoting ongoing citizenship verification issues.

AI in Governance (India)

The use of artificial intelligence in governance in India is an emerging trend where states implement AI tools to improve administrative efficiency and citizen services. AI-powered chatbots, like Haryanas Sarathi, automate information retrieval from large government databases. These systems enable 24/7 access to policies, orders, and circulars, reducing dependency on manual bureaucratic processes. AI adoption varies widely across states but focuses on transparency, faster decision-making, and public engagement. Challenges include maintaining data accuracy, regular updates, and ensuring accessibility for diverse populations. The trend reflects India’s broader digital transformation and e-governance initiatives.

Why in news?

Haryanas launch of the Sarathi chatbot in March 2025 exemplifies the growing use of AI in governance across state of Indias.

Article 124(4) Impeachment

Article 124(4) of the Constitution of India provides the procedure for removal of Supreme Court judges on grounds of “proved misbehaviour” or “incapacity”. The process requires a motion passed by a two-thirds majority of members present and voting in both Houses of Parliament, with the majority also exceeding 50% of total membership. After parliamentary approval, the President issues an order for removal. The same provisions apply to High Court judges under Article 218. If Parliament is dissolved or its term ends during proceedings, the impeachment motion automatically fails.

Why in news?

Justice Yashwant Varma faces potential removal under the constitutional impeachment process after an internal inquiry found substance to allegations against him.

Article 14 of Constitution of India

Article 14 guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the laws within Indian territory. It prohibits arbitrary state actions and mandates fairness and non-discrimination in administrative and legal decisions. Article 14 is often invoked in public interest litigations and challenges to government tenders, contracts, and policies to ensure transparency and prevent mala fide actions. It underpins judicial review of government decisions, especially in cases alleging favoritism or procedural irregularities.

Why in news?

STCs appeal against the tender cancellation for the Dharavi Redevelopment Project cites Article 14, alleging the Maharashtra government violated principles of fairness and non-arbitrariness in awarding the contract to Adani Group.

Article 148 of the Constitution of India

Article 148 establishes the office of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India. It mandates that the CAG shall be appointed by the President by warrant under his hand and seal. The Article also states that the CAG can only be removed from office in the same manner and on the same grounds as a Supreme Court judge. This provision safeguards the independence of the CAG by ensuring security of tenure. The Article does not specify a selection committee or detailed appointment procedure, leaving the power of appointment largely to the President, acting on the advice of the government.

Why in news?

The Supreme Court issued notice on a PIL challenging the current appointment scheme of the CAG under Article 148, seeking a committee-based selection process to ensure greater independence.

Assam-Bodoland Agreement

The Assam-Bodoland Agreement was signed in 2020 to bring peace between the Assam government and the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) insurgent groups. It aimed to resolve decades-long ethnic conflicts and demands for autonomy by creating an autonomous council with legislative and executive powers. The agreement included provisions for economic development, protection of indigenous rights, and rehabilitation of former militants. It facilitated the surrender of arms by over 10,000 youths across Assam. The accord is a critical step toward stability ...