Prime Minister Narendra Modi warned against Congress' tactic of pitting one caste against another for political gains and urged the people to stay united. Launching a scathing attack on the Maha Vikas Aghadi, PM Modi also made a veiled reference to Shiv Sena's leader's recent "imported maal" remarks, saying that the Opposition has resorted to "insulting women". He cautioned the nation against falling prey to Congress' agenda of dividing the SC, ST, and OBC communities, stating that unity among communities is crucial for the progress of the nation.
The Supreme Court's recent ruling allowing states to create sub-categories within SC and ST reservations has sparked controversy and led to a nationwide bandh called by the National Confederation of Dalit and Adivasi Organizations. The bandh aims to challenge the decision and pressure the government to either overturn or review it. Protesters are demanding the release of caste-based data for fair representation in government jobs and the establishment of an Indian Judicial Service for higher judiciary appointments. The bandh is expected to have a significant impact, with schools closing in anticipation of protests in several states.
The Reservation Bachao Sangharsh Samiti has called for a nationwide protest, Bharat Bandh, to oppose the Supreme Court's decision to allow creamy layer within the SC and ST category. The protest is expected to disrupt public transport and commercial establishments, but emergency services will remain operational. Additionally, the National Confederation of Dalit and Adivasi Organisations has released a list of demands for justice and equity for SCs, STs, and OBCs.
In a strategic move, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has appointed Keshav Mahto Kamlesh as the new Jharkhand Congress Chief, replacing Rajesh Thakur, ahead of the upcoming assembly election. This move is seen as an effort to garner support from the OBC, ST, and SC communities, who hold a significant population in the state. The decision has caused a stir in the political corridors of Jharkhand, with speculations of its potential impact on the election.
IBPS has opened 4455 positions for Probationary Officers across 11 major banks, providing a significant opportunity for career seekers in the banking sector. The registration process has begun and can be completed on the official IBPS website, with an application deadline of August 21. To be eligible for the position, candidates must be graduates aged between 20 and 30, with age relaxation as per rules. Application fees vary by category, with SC, ST, and PwBD candidates paying Rs 175 and OBC and General categories paying Rs 850.
A delegation of BJP MPs met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to express their concerns about the recent Supreme Court observation on identifying the creamy layer within the SC and ST communities. Following the meeting, Modi reassured the MPs of the NDA government's continued commitment to the welfare of these communities. This meeting came after Justice B.R. Gavai suggested that states should develop policies to identify the creamy layer and exclude them from reservation benefits.
The Supreme Court has made a historic decision to allow states to create sub-classifications within the Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) categories for the purposes of providing wider protections. This overturns the court's previous ruling in 2004 that the SC/ST list is a "homogeneous group" and cannot be further divided. The decision was reached in a 6:1 ruling, with five judges in favor of sub-classification and one in dissent. This ruling has implications for states and groups within the SC list that have been underrepresented, opening the door for more protection and opportunity.
In a major diplomatic victory, Russia and the US have completed their largest post-Soviet prisoner exchange. Notable dissidents and journalists were among those released, with President Biden greeting the freed prisoners upon their arrival in Moscow. The swap highlights the tension and strained relationship between the two countries.
Following a recent groping incident in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has promised swift and serious punishment for the accused. The incident involved two men, Pawan Yadav and Mohammad Arbaaz. Adityanath has ordered the suspension of the entire police post in the area and praised the measures taken by the state government to ensure women's safety. He also announced the launch of a "Sadbhavna Express" specifically for the accused.
In a fiery speech, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman called out opposition leader Rahul Gandhi for his criticism of the absence of SC and ST officials in the budget preparation team. The Finance Minister also pointed out the lack of representation in the Rajiv Gandhi Foundation and Charitable Trust. In response, Gandhi defended his demand for a caste-based census, while PM Modi praised Sitharaman's colleague for exposing the "dirty politics" of the opposition.