What to Read in Indian Express Editorial( Topic and Syllabus wise)

Editorial 1 : Government’s support for Vodafone-Idea is misplaced

Introduction

In September 2021, the Indian government introduced measures to support the struggling telecom sector, including redefining adjusted gross revenues (AGR), reducing spectrum usage charges, and offering moratoriums on unpaid dues. One key provision allowed telecom companies to convert their deferred payment interest into equity. Vodafone Idea (Vi) has since benefited from this policy, with the government converting Rs 16,133 crore of its interest dues into equity in 2023 and recently approving the conversion of Rs 36,950 crore of outstanding spectrum auction dues. As a result, the government now owns nearly 49% of Vi.

Key Points

1. Government’s Equity Stake in Vodafone Idea
   1. In early 2023, Rs 16,133 crore of Vi’s dues were converted into equity.
   2. Recently, Rs 36,950 crore of spectrum dues were also converted into equity.
   3. The government now holds a 49% stake, while Aditya Birla Group and Vodafone Plc have reduced stakes (9.5% and 16.07%, respectively) but retain operational control.
2. Immediate Impact on Vodafone Idea
   1. The conversion will ease Vi’s cash flow issues and provide short-term relief.
   2. However, the company continues to lose subscribers, dropping from 215 million in early 2023-24 to 199.8 million by December 2024.
   3. Vi’s ARPU (Rs 156) lags behind competitors Bharti Airtel (Rs 233) and Reliance Jio (Rs 195).
   4. It has the lowest data usage per subscriber among the three major telecom players.
3. Challenges and Future Strategy
   1. Vi’s revival plan includes investing in 4G expansion and rolling out 5G to boost subscriber growth and revenue.
   2. However, the company still has massive liabilities:
      • Total debt: Rs 2.3 lakh crore (as of December 2024).
      • AGR dues: Rs 77,000 crore.
      • Spectrum liability: Rs 1.4 lakh crore.
   3. If further debt is converted into equity, the government’s stake could exceed 50%, raising concerns about government intervention in a private enterprise.
4. Market Structure and Policy Considerations
   1. Without government support, Vi’s financial struggles could lead to a telecom duopoly dominated by Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel.
   2. A duopoly may reduce consumer choice and competitive pricing.
   3. However, policymakers should focus on maintaining market competition rather than sustaining struggling firms.
   4. A more balanced approach would be to facilitate the entry of new private players rather than artificially supporting financially weak competitors.

Conclusion

While the government’s intervention has provided Vodafone Idea with temporary relief, long-term viability remains uncertain due to its high debt burden and declining market share. The telecom sector should prioritize competition rather than the survival of individual players. Moving forward, the government must carefully assess whether further support to Vi is justified or if market-driven solutions should dictate its fate.

Editorial 2 : Listen to Supreme Court – stop the bulldozer

Introduction

Recent instances of municipal authorities demolishing homes of individuals accused of crimes—often without due process—have raised serious concerns about fundamental justice principles. These actions violate the presumption of innocence, individual accountability, and constitutional safeguards against arbitrary state actions. The Supreme Court has strongly criticized this practice, reinforcing the need for legal due process.

Key Points

1. Violation of Justice Principles
   1. Innocence until proven guilty and punishment only after due process are fundamental rights.
   2. Guilt by association and collective punishment violate constitutional protections.
   3. Bulldozer actions disproportionately impact vulnerable communities.
2. Supreme Court’s Rebuke in the Prayagraj Case
   1. Ordered the Prayagraj Development Authority (PDA) to compensate affected individuals with Rs 10 lakh each.
   2. Called the demolitions “high-handed” and “insensitive.”
   3. Questioned the UP government’s claim that proper notices were served before demolition.
3. Previous Supreme Court Observations
   1. In November 2023, the Court condemned bulldozer demolitions as evoking a “lawless state of affairs.”
   2. Stated that such actions violated due process and rule of law.
   3. Demolitions began in UP and spread across BJP-ruled states and AAP-ruled Punjab.
4. Judiciary’s Role in Protecting Citizens’ Rights
   1. The SC’s intervention reaffirms its role as the last line of defense for citizens.
   2. Courts must continue holding state authorities accountable for illegal demolitions.
   3. The Rs 10 lakh fine serves as a warning to prevent future violations of due process.
5. Political and Administrative Responsibility
   1. Governments and political parties have normalized bulldozer justice for electoral gains.
   2. The executive must ensure legal and fair enforcement without judicial pressure.
   3. Rule of law should be prioritized over populist measures of instant justice.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court’s strong stance against bulldozer demolitions highlights the importance of constitutional protections and due process. While the judiciary remains vigilant, it is crucial for political leaders and administrative bodies to uphold the rule of law voluntarily, rather than being forced to do so through legal penalties.

Editorial 3 : The Third Edit: Val Kilmer, the Iceman

Introduction

Val Kilmer, a Hollywood leading man once considered on par with Tom Cruise and George Clooney, passed away at 65. Known for his distinctive career choices, Kilmer left an indelible mark on the film industry with roles that showcased his immense talent and versatility.

Key Points

1. Unique Career Choices
   1. Made a surprise 10-second cameo as Officer Dobson in Psych (2014), showing his willingness to take unconventional roles.
   2. Gained fame with standout performances in Top Gun (1986) as Tom “Iceman” Kazansky, The Doors (1991) as Jim Morrison, and Tombstone (1993) as Doc Holliday.
   3. Starred as Batman in Batman Forever (1995), which solidified his A-list status.
2. Turning Down the Mainstream Path
   1. Opted out of the Batman Forever sequel to work with Marlon Brando in The Island of Dr. Moreau (1996).
   2. Moreau was plagued with production chaos and became a box-office disaster.
   3. The Saint (1997) was one of his last major commercial hits.
3. Later Career and Reputation
   1. Earned a reputation for being difficult to work with, which limited opportunities in Hollywood.
   2. A throat cancer diagnosis in the 2010s further reduced his screen appearances.
   3. Transitioned back to stage performances, which had been his first passion.
4. Final Role and Legacy
   1. His last big-screen appearance was a touching farewell as Iceman in Top Gun: Maverick (2022).
   2. Despite career setbacks, Kilmer remained widely respected for his dedication to the craft.

Conclusion

Val Kilmer’s career was defined by bold choices, immense talent, and an unwavering commitment to acting. While his mainstream success waned, his legacy as an iconic actor endures, with unforgettable performances that continue to captivate audiences.