1.Sixth Schedule of the Constitution
- The Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution (Articles 244(2) and 275(1)) contains provisions for the administration of tribal areas in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram.
- It was enacted to protect tribal culture, customs, and resources while giving autonomy in governance.
- Tribal Areas are administered through Autonomous District Councils (ADCs).
- Each ADC has 30 members – 26 elected by the people and 4 nominated by the Governor.
- ADCs have powers to make laws on land, forests, shifting cultivation, village administration, marriage/divorce, inheritance, and social customs.
- The Governor can increase, decrease, or alter the boundaries of Autonomous Districts.
- Village Councils and courts can be set up for justice as per tribal customs.
2.Bailey Bridge on Gangotri
- The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has inaugurated a Bailey Bridge over the Bhagirathi River near Gangotri, Uttarakhand.
- The bridge will restore connectivity to Gangotri, a key Char Dham pilgrimage site, after the earlier bridge was damaged by flash floods.
- It will facilitate movement of pilgrims, tourists, and locals while also supporting the Indian Army’s operational needs in the border region.
- The structure is designed for all-weather connectivity and can withstand heavy loads in challenging Himalayan terrain.
- The BRO constructed the bridge in a record time, showcasing its expertise in strategic infrastructure in high-altitude areas.
3.Section 436-A of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC)
- Provision: Allows the release of an undertrial prisoner on personal bond if they have spent half of the maximum period of imprisonment prescribed for the alleged offence.
- Applicability: Applies to offences not punishable with death.
- Objective: To prevent prolonged incarceration of undertrials and address prison overcrowding.
- Exceptions: The court may order continued detention if it records special reasons in writing.
- Recent Context (2025): The Supreme Court has reiterated that this provision is a statutory right and directed states to ensure regular review of undertrial cases under Section 436-A.
4.Kakori Train Robbery
- The Kakori Train Robbery took place on 9 August 1925 near Kakori, Uttar Pradesh, to fund revolutionary activities against British rule.
- It was organised by the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA).
- The main revolutionaries were Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqulla Khan, Rajendra Lahiri, and Roshan Singh.
- The act aimed to inspire the youth to join the freedom struggle against the British.
- The four leaders were executed by the British in December 1927, while several others were given long prison sentences.
- Their sacrifice is honoured every year on Kakori Day (9 August).