LAW AND GOVERNANCE
WhatsApp Warns of Exiting India Over Encryption
WhatsApp’s lawyer informed the Delhi High Court that if compelled to break encryption, the platform would exit India. This statement was made during a hearing challenging IT rules mandating message tracing. The platform emphasized its commitment to user privacy and encryption. The court noted the need to balance privacy rights with concerns over objectionable content. The matter awaits further hearing in August, following Supreme Court orders transferring similar petitions. The case underscores the ongoing debate between privacy rights and governmental regulations on social media platforms.
Supreme Court Upholds Woman’s Property Rights
The Supreme Court reiterated a husband’s lack of control over his wife’s ‘stridhan’ property and ordered compensation for lost gold. This decision reaffirms the woman’s absolute ownership of pre-marital and gifted assets. The court emphasized trust in matrimonial relationships and rejected claims doubting the wife’s intentions. The ruling underscores the importance of protecting women’s property rights within marriages and ensuring equitable resolutions in disputes.
Centre Asserts State Policy in Nationalisation Case
The Centre argued before the Supreme Court that nationalisation falls under state policy beyond judicial review. This assertion came during a hearing on requisitioning and redistributing private properties for the common good, as outlined in Article 39(b). The government emphasized socio-economic justice and the distribution of resources to serve public welfare. The case reflects the ongoing interpretation of constitutional directives and the state’s authority in economic matters.
GOVERNMENT SCHEMES
Samarth (Respite Care) Scheme
(Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Govt. of India)
Objective:
The Samarth (Respite Care) Scheme aims to provide respite care for orphans or abandoned Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), families in crisis, and those from BPL & LIG families. It seeks to offer a safe and supportive environment for individuals with disabilities, allowing their families respite time to fulfill other responsibilities.
Eligibility:
Applicants must have at least one of the disabilities covered under the National Trust Act, 1999, including Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation, and Multiple Disabilities.
Criteria:
- Group Home Facilities: Registered Organizations (RO) must provide group home facilities with quality care services for individuals of all age groups, including basic medical care.
- Vocational Activities: Samarth Centres should offer age-specific vocational activities, pre-vocational training, and assistance for schooling or training as required.
- Staffing: Each Samarth Centre must have specialized staff, including Special Educators, Physiotherapists, Caregivers, Ayas, and Cooks.
- Infrastructure: Centres should provide therapeutic aids, hygienic lodging, and other necessary facilities for PwDs.
- Assessment and Evaluation: Regular assessment and evaluation of individuals by experts are essential to monitor their progress and address individual needs.
- Linkage with Gharaunda Scheme: For PwDs above 18 years who have spent more than 5 years in the Samarth Centre, facilitation of shifting to Gharaunda centres should be ensured.
Niramaya Health Insurance Scheme
(Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Govt. of India)
Objective:
The Niramaya Health Insurance Scheme aims to provide affordable health insurance to individuals with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation, and Multiple Disabilities. It offers comprehensive coverage for various medical expenses to ensure access to quality healthcare services.
Eligibility:
All persons with disabilities covered under the National Trust Act, 1999, possessing a valid disability certificate, are eligible for the scheme.
Criteria:
- Health Insurance Coverage: Individuals are entitled to insurance coverage of up to ₹1,00,000 annually, covering various medical expenses.
- Outpatient Department (OPD) Treatment: Coverage includes expenses for medicines, pathology, and diagnostic tests.
- Regular Medical Checkups: Non-ailing individuals with disabilities can avail regular medical checkups.
- Dental Care: Preventive dentistry services are provided under the scheme.
- Surgery and Non-Surgical Treatments: Coverage for surgeries to prevent disability worsening or for existing disabilities, as well as non-surgical treatments and related stays.
- Ongoing Therapies: Coverage includes ongoing therapies for managing disabilities and related complications.
- Alternative Medicine: Reimbursement for alternative treatment options is available.
- Transportation Costs: Reimbursement for transportation related to medical care is provided, ensuring access to necessary healthcare services.
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Also Read– SUPREME COURT OVER ‘DISMAL’ IMPLEMENTATION OF RPwD ACT 2016