MLC Daily Current Affairs – 07 August 2024

Today in History (August 7^th, 1905)

It was on this day that the Swadeshi Movement was launched in 1905, where it was declared to boycott British goods. The movement involved the revival of domestic products and production processes.

Let’s revise

A) What is the capital city of Bangladesh?

1. Dhaka
2. Kolkata
3. Islamabad
4. Kathmandu

Answer: 1) Dhaka
Explanation: Dhaka is the capital city of Bangladesh. It is the political, economic, and cultural center of the country.

B) Which Indian state shares the longest border with Bangladesh?

1. West Bengal
2. Assam
3. Meghalaya
4. Tripura

Answer: 1) West Bengal
Explanation: The Indian state of West Bengal shares the longest border with Bangladesh, stretching over approximately 2,216 kilometers.

C) In which year did India and Bangladesh sign the Land Boundary Agreement to resolve border disputes?

1. 1947
2. 1965
3. 1974
4. 2015

Answer: 3) 1974
Explanation: The Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) was signed between India and Bangladesh in 1974 to resolve the border disputes and exchange enclaves.

D) Which of the following rivers forms a significant part of the border between India and Bangladesh?

1. Ganges
2. Brahmaputra
3. Jamuna
4. Indus

Answer: 3) Jamuna
Explanation: The Jamuna River forms a significant part of the border between India and Bangladesh. It is known as the Brahmaputra River in India and becomes the Jamuna as it enters Bangladesh.

E. What was the primary purpose of the 2015 Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) between India and Bangladesh?

1. To enhance trade relations
2. To resolve border disputes and exchange enclaves
3. To establish a joint military force
4. To promote cultural exchanges

Answer: 2) To resolve border disputes and exchange enclaves
Explanation: The 2015 Land Boundary Agreement aimed to resolve longstanding border disputes and facilitate the exchange of enclaves between India and Bangladesh, improving bilateral relations.

Summary of Today’s News

Bangladesh in political turmoil and uncontrolled violence.

• Parliament Dissolved: Bangladesh President Shahabuddin has dissolved the 12th Parliament and promised to hold fresh elections soon after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina stepped down and left the country.
• Muhammad Yunus Proposed: The student group leading anti-government protests has proposed Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus to lead an interim government, and he has agreed to take on this role.
• Political Releases and Arrests: Opposition leaders, including BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia, have been released from jail. Several Awami League leaders have been arrested, including former Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud.
• Military Reshuffle: The Bangladesh Army has undergone a major reshuffle, relieving Maj. Gen. Zia from duty and reassigning others.
• Protests and Violence: Widespread protests have occurred, leading to violence and attacks on Hindu minority communities. The police have promised legal action against perpetrators, while political party leaders are protecting Hindu sites.
• International Concerns: European Union diplomats have expressed serious concern over the attacks on minority communities.
• Protective Measures: Leaders from various political parties, including Jamaat-e-Islami, are actively protecting Hindu communities from potential attacks amid the unrest.

American court’s decision against Google

• Monopoly Ruling: A U.S. judge has ruled that Google holds a monopoly in search and text ads, maintaining its dominant position through exclusive distribution agreements.
• Legal Implications: The ruling could significantly impact the tech sector, as it enforces the Sherman Antitrust Act, which prohibits monopolization.
• Google’s Response: Google plans to appeal the decision, arguing that its high-quality search engine and the evolving nature of information-seeking justify its practices.
• No Anticompetitive Effects: The judge noted that Google’s actions did not have anticompetitive effects, which could influence the remedies or damages imposed.
• Potential Impact: Future remedies may include restrictions on exclusive deals, which could affect Google’s search business and increase competition from other players like Microsoft and OpenAI.

Changing equations in Presidential elections in USA

• Vice-Presidential Pick: Kamala Harris has selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate for the Democratic presidential ticket.
• Walz’s Background: Tim Walz, a U.S. Army National Guard veteran and former teacher, served in Congress for 12 years before becoming Governor of Minnesota in 2018. He has a record of progressive policies and centrist voting.
• Policy Stance: As Governor, Walz has advanced a progressive agenda including free school meals, climate change goals, tax cuts, and expanded paid leave. He supports women’s reproductive rights but has also defended agricultural interests and gun rights.
• Strategic Choice: Walz was chosen over Josh Shapiro, the Governor of Pennsylvania, who was considered crucial for winning his battleground state.
• Endorsements and Support: President Joe Biden praised Walz’s selection, highlighting his strong leadership. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi also supported Walz’s nomination, influencing Biden’s decision to exit the race.
• Campaign Goals: Harris aims to leverage Walz’s appeal to rural and white voters while advocating for progressive policies.