For UPSC CSE aspirants, analyzing editorials from The Indian Express is essential to build a comprehensive understanding of current affairs, policy debates, and socio-economic challenges. Here’s a structured breakdown of the editorial themes covered on January 25, 2025, tailored for UPSC preparation:
1. Menaka Guruswamy writes: TikTok’s case in the US demonstrates how social media is the new oil
Social media platforms like TikTok have emerged as vital resources in the modern age, capturing human attention and influencing global markets, politics, and security frameworks. The recent case of TikTok Inc. et al v. Merrick B. Garland, heard by the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS), highlights the intersection of technology, national security, and free speech.
TikTok’s global reach
Launched in 2017, TikTok has amassed over 170 million users in the US and 1 billion worldwide, making it a valuable platform in high-stakes markets like the US.
In 2023, US users uploaded 5.5 billion videos, which were viewed 13 trillion times globally, showcasing its massive reach and impact.
Security concerns
TikTok is owned by ByteDance Ltd, a Chinese company governed by Chinese laws, which mandate cooperation with intelligence operations. This raises concerns about potential misuse of sensitive user data.
Former President Donald Trump, in 2020, issued an executive order citing threats posed by Chinese apps to US national security, foreign policy, and the economy.
Congress enacted the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, 2024, making it illegal to operate apps controlled by foreign adversaries unless divested into non-adversarial ownership.
SCOTUS verdict
SCOTUS upheld the Act, emphasizing the necessity of regulating TikTok due to national security risks.
The court recognized China’s extensive efforts to collect structured data on US citizens and stated that concerns over potential misuse of TikTok data were reasonable and evidence-based.
While the Act was deemed consistent with the First Amendment, Justice Sonia Sotomayor acknowledged that it imposed some restrictions on free speech.
Temporary suspension and future
Following the SCOTUS decision, TikTok went offline for 12 hours, affecting its 170 million US users.
On January 20, President Trump issued an executive order delaying the ban by 75 days, allowing time for negotiations.
An American investor group, encouraged by Trump, is exploring a bid to acquire TikTok, potentially resolving the security concerns.
Broader implications
The TikTok case reflects the global challenge of balancing national security, technological advancement, and freedom of speech.
It raises critical questions for governments worldwide: How should countries secure citizens’ data when foreign adversaries control digital platforms?
Conclusion
The TikTok case underscores that human attention is the most valuable resource in the digital age, with social media serving as the new oil. Constitutional courts and governments will increasingly grapple with regulating platforms like TikTok to address security, economic, and social concerns in an interconnected world.
2. President Prabowo Subianto’s Republic Day visit could pave the way for deeper India-Indonesia ties
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s visit to India as the chief guest for the Republic Day celebrations on January 26 marks a pivotal moment for deepening bilateral ties between the two nations. His vision of positioning Indonesia as a major global player resonates with India’s aspirations, paving the way for a broader and more strategic partnership.
Evolving bilateral relations
India and Indonesia share historical and cultural ties, complemented by growing collaboration in the modern era. The working relationship between their foreign ministers during the second terms of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) laid a solid foundation for deeper engagement. Regular consultations and the consecutive G20 presidencies in 2022 and 2023 further bolstered cooperation.
BRICS and shared opportunities
Indonesia’s membership in BRICS since 2023 offers a platform to strengthen strategic ties. While Indonesia maintains strong economic relations with China, President Prabowo’s independent policy approach presents an opportunity for collaboration with India within BRICS, balancing regional dynamics.
Indo-Pacific cooperation
The Indo-Pacific region remains a key domain for India-Indonesia collaboration. Indonesia’s leadership in shaping ASEAN’s Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) aligns with India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI). By focusing on maritime resources and regional projects, both nations can drive a pro-regional agenda that extends beyond ASEAN.
Trilateral and multilateral frameworks
India and Indonesia, along with Australia, already have a trilateral framework that can be enhanced through focused initiatives. Indonesia’s recent engagement with Japan, which expanded its Official Security Assistance (OSA) policy to include Jakarta, opens the possibility of an India-Japan-Indonesia trilateral partnership.
Key challenges and convergence areas
While differences in perspectives persist, particularly regarding China and Myanmar, India and Indonesia must continue their dialogue to address these challenges. Exploring platforms like BIMSTEC and coordinating efforts within regional forums such as the East Asia Summit (EAS) can help bridge gaps and expand cooperation.
Conclusion
President Prabowo Subianto’s visit to India highlights the potential for a robust India-Indonesia partnership. By leveraging platforms like BRICS, IPOI, and trilateral frameworks, the two nations can shape a strategic landscape that addresses shared challenges and promotes stability in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
3. S Ravindra Bhatt writes: At this 75th anniversary of our republic, there is much to celebrate, much to reflect on
As India celebrates the 75th anniversary of becoming a republic, it is a moment to honor our achievements while reflecting on areas where progress is still needed. From the adoption of a democratic Constitution to the transformation of its citizens into empowered participants in governance, India has come a long way. Yet, challenges persist, particularly for the most vulnerable sections of society.
Achievements to Celebrate
India’s journey as a republic has been marked by remarkable accomplishments:
- Life expectancy has increased from 32 years to 75 years.
- Literacy rates have risen from 12% to 75%.
- Economic growth has placed India as the fifth-largest economy in the world.
- Scientific advancements, such as Chandrayaan-3’s soft landing, showcase India’s prowess in space exploration.
- The democratic system has shown stability, contrasting sharply with many nations worldwide.
These milestones reflect the nation’s resilience and the foresight of its Constitution, which guarantees liberty, equality, and justice for all.
The Unheard Voices
Despite progress, stark inequalities remain. Wealth and income distribution are heavily skewed, with a small minority controlling a significant portion of the nation’s resources. Gender disparity, caste discrimination, and lack of access to basic necessities continue to plague many citizens.
True dignity and fraternity, as envisioned by the Constitution, demand a societal attitude that recognizes every individual’s equal worth and ensures their rights, self-respect, and security.
Challenges in the Legal System
India’s legal system, a cornerstone of justice, faces significant hurdles:
- With over 140 crore people, only 25,081 judges are sanctioned, and courtrooms number just above 20,000.
- Judges face overwhelming caseloads, handling 60 to 150 cases daily, leaving little room for in-depth reflection.
- Infrastructural gaps and delays result in a justice delivery system that struggles to meet the public’s expectations.
Addressing these issues requires long-term planning, systemic reforms, and collaboration among all branches of governance to ensure quick and affordable justice.
The Digital Divide
India’s digital revolution has brought transformative changes, yet it has also widened the gap for many marginalized groups. Limited access to technology, low digital literacy, and geographical constraints exclude millions from essential services and opportunities.
Efforts must focus on bridging this divide to ensure equitable access to rights, education, and economic benefits in the digital era.
Climate Change and Its Impact
Climate change poses a severe threat to India’s public health, agriculture, and safety. Warming temperatures, erratic rainfall, and extreme weather events disproportionately affect the marginalized, exacerbating vulnerabilities.
Mitigating climate change’s impacts and ensuring sustainable development are critical for long-term prosperity.
Conclusion
At 75 years as a republic, India’s progress is undeniable, but so are its challenges. True prosperity must be measured by the well-being and dignity of every individual, regardless of their status or circumstances. The journey ahead calls for a renewed commitment to the ideals of equality, justice, and fraternity envisioned in the Constitution, ensuring that every citizen feels valued and secure in the fabric of the nation.
4. Reclaiming the Republic’s founding values
As India marks its 75th Republic Day, this milestone calls for introspection on the values enshrined in our Constitution. However, these foundational principles face significant challenges today. Below are the key issues and a call to action:
1. Threats to Secularism
- Rise of Religious Majoritarianism: The pluralistic ethos of the republic is being undermined by the increasing dominance of religious majoritarian politics.
- Erosion of Minority Rights: Incidents of mob lynching and violations of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, reflect an alarming assault on secular values.
- Dr. Ambedkar’s Warning: His caution against “Hindu Raj” remains relevant, highlighting the dangers of communal dominance in a diverse society.
2. Increasing Economic Inequality
- Concentration of Wealth: A small elite controls the majority of wealth, while marginalized communities struggle to access growth benefits.
- Deviation from the Welfare State: Privatization, pro-corporate policies, and the weakening of labor rights contradict the Constitution’s vision of economic democracy.
- Impact on Social Harmony: Economic exclusion fuels unrest and enables divisive politics based on religion rather than addressing class struggles.
3. Challenges to Federalism
- Centralization of Power: The Union’s overreach in state matters undermines the federal structure, as seen in the misuse of the governor’s office to destabilize state governments.
- Imposition of Uniformity: Cultural, linguistic, and religious homogenization threatens the diversity of India.
- Concerns over “One Nation, One Election”: Such initiatives risk diluting state autonomy, going against the spirit of federalism.
4. A Call for Action
- Reviving Constitutional Ideals: Citizens must actively work to protect the values of secularism, socialism, and federalism enshrined in the Constitution.
- Ensuring Equality and Dignity: Policies and efforts must focus on reducing inequalities and ensuring justice for all, especially marginalized communities.
- Upholding the Constitution: The Constitution must remain a living document that guarantees freedom, dignity, and equal rights for every citizen.
Conclusion
This Republic Day serves as a reminder of the urgent need to reclaim the founding values of our republic. By addressing these challenges collectively, India can ensure a future where democracy, inclusivity, and justice flourish for all.
Disclaimer:
This analysis is based on the editorial content published in Indian Express and is intended solely for informational and educational purposes. The views, opinions, and interpretations expressed herein are those of the author of original article. Readers are encouraged to refer to the original article for complete context and to exercise their own judgment while interpreting the analysis. The analysis does not constitute professional advice or endorsement of any political, economic, or social perspective.
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