18 May 2024: UPSC Exam Comprehensive News Analysis

B. GS 2 Related

Category: POLITY

1. Why delay in uploading turnout data, SC asks EC

Syllabus: Elections 

Prelims: ECE

Mains: Powers of Election Commission (EC)

Context​:

• The Supreme Court has asked the Election Commission (EC) to clarify the delay in uploading authenticated voter turnout data on its website.
• This inquiry follows concerns raised by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) about inconsistencies and delays in the publication of voter turnout percentages.

Background

• Concerns by ADR: The NGO observed unusually sharp spikes in voter turnout percentages initially released by the EC, questioning the authenticity of the data.
• Legal Framework: Rule 49S and Rule 56C (2) of the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961 mandate that the Presiding Officer prepares an account of votes in Form 17C (Part I) format.

Supreme Court’s Query

• SC’s Oral Question: The Chief Justice of India, D.Y. Chandrachud, asked why the EC does not immediately upload the authenticated voting records after each polling phase.
• EC’s Defense: The EC, represented by senior advocate Maninder Singh, claimed that the application was intended to disrupt the polls and referenced a recent SC judgment affirming the security of EVMs and electoral processes.

Issues

Delays in Data Publication

• Timing Concerns: The voter turnout data for the first two phases were delayed by 11 and 4 days, respectively, raising questions about the EC’s efficiency.
• Impact on Trust: Delays and inconsistencies in data publication undermine public trust in the electoral process and the integrity of the results.

Data Authenticity

• Spike in Turnout Figures: ADR noted sharp spikes in voter turnout percentages, prompting concerns about potential data manipulation or errors.
• Transparency Issues: Failure to provide timely and accurate data fuels speculation about the credibility of the election process and the functioning of EVMs.

Significance

Ensuring Electoral Integrity

• Public Confidence: Timely and accurate publication of voter turnout data is crucial for maintaining public confidence in the electoral process.
• Preventing Misinformation: Clear and prompt communication of electoral data helps prevent the spread of misinformation and speculation.

Legal and Democratic Accountability

• Compliance with Rules: Adhering to Rule 49S and Rule 56C (2) ensures legal compliance and upholds democratic principles.
• Judicial Oversight: The SC’s intervention highlights the importance of judicial oversight in ensuring transparency and accountability in electoral processes.

Solutions

Technological and Procedural Improvements

• Automated Systems: Implement automated systems for real-time data entry and verification to reduce delays.
• Standardized Protocols: Develop standardized protocols for immediate uploading of authenticated data by Returning Officers.

Increased Transparency

• Regular Updates: Ensure regular and transparent updates on the EC website regarding voter turnout and other relevant data.
• Public Communication: Enhance public communication strategies to explain any delays or discrepancies in data publication.

Enhanced Monitoring

• Independent Audits: Conduct independent audits of voter turnout data and the processes involved in its compilation and publication.
• Judicial Monitoring: Establish mechanisms for continuous judicial monitoring during election periods to address any emerging concerns promptly.

Nut Graf: The delay in uploading voter turnout data by the Election Commission raises critical issues about transparency and public trust in the electoral process. To maintain the integrity of elections, the EC must adopt technological, procedural, and transparency-enhancing measures. Judicial oversight, as demonstrated by the Supreme Court’s involvement, plays a vital role in ensuring accountability and upholding democratic values.

E. Editorials

Category: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

1. Stay invested

Syllabus: GS-2, Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests.

Mains: India – Iran relations

Context:​ 

• India’s recent 10-year agreement with Iran to develop the Chabahar port marks a significant step in enhancing its infrastructure and trade ties with Iran.
• Despite potential risks from U.S. sanctions, India is committed to investing in and expanding its connectivity and trade projects in Central Asia.

Strategic Importance of Chabahar Port

• Alternative Trade Route: Bypasses Pakistan, facilitating trade with Afghanistan and Central Asia.
• International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC): Connects India to Europe via Iran, Azerbaijan, and Russia, offering a strategic alternative to the Suez Canal route.
• Geopolitical Influence: Enhances India’s influence in Central Asia, countering China’s presence in Pakistan’s Gwadar port, part of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Historical Context and Challenges

• Conception and Delays: The project was conceived in 2003 but delayed by U.S. and UN sanctions over Iran’s nuclear program.
• MoU and Implementation: India signed an MoU in 2015 post U.S. sanctions relief and executed the contract in 2016 during PM Modi’s visit to Iran.
• Sanctions and Waivers: The U.S. withdrawal from the nuclear deal in 2018 reimposed sanctions, but India secured carve-outs allowing limited port operations.

Current U.S. Stance and India’s Response

• U.S. Hostility: The U.S. opposes the project due to its hostile stance towards Iran, emphasizing the potential for sanctions against entities engaging with Iran.
• Policy Shifts: Past policy changes in the U.S. led to India’s fluctuating engagement with Iran. However, current U.S. interests are more focused on containing Iran post-Afghanistan withdrawal.

Issues

Geopolitical Risks

• Sanctions: Risk of U.S. sanctions impacting Indian entities involved in the Chabahar project.
• Regional Instability: Ongoing tensions in West Asia could affect project stability and progress.

Economic Challenges

• Investment Risks: Substantial financial commitment amidst uncertain returns due to geopolitical tensions.
• Connectivity Barriers: Ensuring seamless connectivity through the INSTC amid varying regional dynamics.

Solutions

Diplomatic Engagement

• Multilateral Negotiations: Engage with the U.S. and other stakeholders to secure necessary waivers and carve-outs for the Chabahar project.
• Regional Cooperation: Strengthen ties with Iran and other Central Asian countries to ensure project stability and progress.

Strategic Investments

• Financial Commitment: Continue investing in the Chabahar port and related infrastructure to ensure long-term benefits.
• Diversified Partnerships: Explore partnerships with other nations interested in the INSTC to share investment risks and benefits.

Nut Graf: India’s commitment to the Chabahar port and its broader connectivity projects with Central Asia is crucial for its strategic and economic interests. While navigating the complexities of U.S. foreign policy and regional tensions, India should maintain an independent and consistent approach, ensuring sustained investments and diplomatic efforts to realize the full potential of the Chabahar initiative.