Understanding the climate change talks - Durban 2011
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Climate change, the science behind the phenomenon, and its impact on our world has been debated and discussed in global seminars, conferences, inter governmental forums and parliaments. Whilst in some other democracies the policy makers and constituents are aware and actively follow the issue, the average Indian voter seems to be unaffected. I have had to educate myself on some of the core questions at hand and infact struggle to keep abreast of the latest stance of governments and experts. I will attempt to create a document that makes some sense to you and I hope some more informed minds take note of any factual infirmities and unhesitatingly give their opinions!
India went into the Climate talks this year with its agenda spelled out by our Environment Minister Jayanthi Natarajan as EQUITY, TRADE and INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS. To understand these concepts one needs to look into the history of climate negotiations and the stands of important international players. (Read her speech at Durban here)
Police Reforms
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A democratic police system is one that is accountable to the law, to democratic structures and to the people it serves. Operational safety, protection of individuals, their human rights and professionalism in a transparent system is what any police force strives to achieve. In India, the police system is still based on the archaic Police Act of 1861. Keep in mind that the Police Act was legislated by the British in the aftermath of the First War of Independence of 1857. Today, issues like corruption, antiquated land acquisition laws and the state of our economy have rightly captured a fair share of public discourse. However, the reform of our police system has not received adequate attention.
On 22 September 2006, the Supreme Court of India delivered a historic judgment in Prakash Singh vs. Union of India, instructing central and state governments to comply with a set of seven directives that laid down practical mechanisms to kick-start police reform. The Court's directives sought to achieve functional autonomy for the police (through security of tenure, streamlined appointment and transfer processes, and the creation of a "buffer body" between the police and the government) and enhanced police accountability (both for organizational performance and individual misconduct.) (Read the Seven Directives here )
Your Voice - Your Issues
Opinion Poll
Do you think small political and administrative units can meet the aspirations of the people for good governance?
Total votes: 15
