October 14, 2023

Good morning. Every Saturday, we publish the results of polls from feature stories that were published the past week. We also give a brief overview of the topics that were discussed.

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🗳️ POLL RESULTS – Week 146

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🗓️ THE WEEK THAT WAS

Will the Bihar caste survey results affect the BJP?

Daily | 9 October 2023

Caste, touted as Bihar’s ‘essential truth’, saw the state embroiled in a violent period in the ’90s. While such times are unlikely to return, this time the caste census’ fallout is expected to be pan-Indian. In such circumstances, will a BJP looking to unite all Hindus under the saffron flag be able to withstand the caste currents? Read more on this here.

Does India need a central law against witch-hunting?

Daily | 10 October 2023

While India has progressed in many aspects, some societal practices and beliefs remain backward and orthodox. Particularly in rural areas, people are often at the mercy of superstition. It becomes a part of their cultural and religious practices. One such practice is witch-hunting. Since it continues to be practised, would a central law against it be the answer? We discuss it here.

Is a two-state solution still possible for the Israel-Palestine issue?

Daily | 11 October 2023

As the attack on Israel by Hamas began, the world watched and will continue to contemplate what’s next. What’s the end game? For an issue that has resulted in a lot of violence and bloodshed, the recent escalation is certainly a step backward. While many countries have condemned the attacks, some have called for a two-state solution. Is this even possible now? We unpack this here.

Should the age of consent be reduced in India?

Daily | 12 October 2023

The recently released report of the Law Commission has advised against lowering the age of consent. The report has also advised the government to bring some changes to the present POCSO Act (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences). But do our social and historical realities demand a re-look at this otherwise taboo issue? Find the debate here.

Is the NMC right to restrict the establishment of new medical colleges?

Daily | 13 October 2023

Regarding the number of medical colleges, there have been issues with the need for more institutions, as well as many existing ones lacking adequate faculty strength. Now, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has released guidelines to restrict the number of medical colleges in South India. Does this help in any way? More on this story here.