• 16 Nov 2024

Policy for Premature Release of Convicts

Why in News?

Recently, the Supreme Court directed the Government of Jammu and Kashmir to draft a policy for the premature release of convicts based on the duration of their imprisonment.

Key Points

• About the Case:
  • A Supreme Court Bench addressed a petition filed by former Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel sentenced to life imprisonment.
    • He was convicted for killing three CRPF personnel after being publicly reprimanded over a leave-related issue.
    • The accused has served over 18 years in prison and is seeking premature release.
• The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir opposed the petition, citing the absence of a policy for premature release based on incarceration duration.
• Court’s Observation and Direction:
  • The Bench remarked that the lack of a policy is not a valid ground for denial, as policy formulation falls under the state’s domain.
  • The Bench emphasized the need for an appropriate policy and directed submission of a compliance report by the state counsel.

Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)

• About:
  • The CRPF was initially established as the Crown Representatives Police in 1939 in response to political turmoil and unrest within the princely states.
  • The force was renamed the Central Reserve Police Force in 1949.
  • Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel, the then Home Minister, envisioned a multifaceted role for the CRPF, aligning its functions with the evolving needs of a newly independent nation.
• Specialised Units:
  • The CRPF has several specialised units, including the Rapid Action Force (RAF), Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA), VIP Security Wing, and Mahila Battalions.
• Key Roles and Responsibilities:

Untreated Waste in Landfills of Kedarnath

Why in News?

Environmentalists are raising concerns as authorities continue to dump tonnes of untreated waste at landfill sites around the eco-sensitive Himalayan temple of Kedarnath.

Key Points

• Garbage Dumping in Kedarnath:
  • It was revealed that 49.18 tonnes of unprocessed garbage were dumped at two landfill sites near Kedarnath between 2022 and 2024.
  • Untreated waste generation showed an upward trend, 13.2 tonnes in 2022, 18.48 tonnes in 2023, and 17.5 tonnes so far in 2024.
• Environmental Concerns:
  • Activists criticized the inadequate garbage management system, emphasizing that the eco-sensitive Kedarnath region lacks proper waste treatment facilities.
    • The temple, located at 12,000 feet amid glaciers, requires immediate waste management reforms to preserve the fragile ecosystem.
  • The two landfill sites near Kedarnath are nearing capacity and continued negligence could lead to another tragedy similar to the 2013 disaster in the region.
• Government and Legal Oversight:
  • The National Green Tribunal (NGT) and National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) responded to complaints, directing authorities to establish sewage treatment plants in Kedarnath.
    • The NMCG noted that untreated waste from Kedarnath is polluting the Mandakini River, a Ganga tributary, and instructed the Rudraprayag district administration to act.

Eco-Sensitive Zones

• Eco-Sensitive Zones or Ecologically Fragile Areas are areas within 10 kms around Protected Areas, National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries.
• ESZs are notified by MoEFCC, Government of India under Environment Protection Act 1986.
  • In case of places with sensitive corridors, connectivity and ecologically important patches, crucial for landscape linkage, even areas beyond 10 km width can also be included in the eco-sensitive zone.
• The basic aim is to regulate certain activities around National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries so as to minimise the negative impacts of such activities on the fragile ecosystem encompassing the protected areas.

International Pushkar Fair 2024

Why in News?

Department of Tourism and Department of Animal Husbandry of Government of Rajasthan is hosting the annual International Pushkar Fair 2024, featuring daily sports competitions and cultural programs that delight participants.

Key Points

• Sports Activities:
  • A cricket match was held at the Pushkar fairground between domestic and foreign tourists, promoting mutual trust and friendship among people.
• Unique Competitions:
  • The 'Shan-e-Mooch' (grandeur of mustache) competition captivated the audience showcasing the pride of the mustache.
  • The 'Safa and Tilak' competition aimed to connect foreigners with Rajasthan's folk culture and to spread awareness about the local dressing culture.