18 July 2025: The Hindu Editorial

1. India Warns Against ‘Double Standards’ over Russian Oil

Source – Page 1, The Hindu City Edition

Topic: GS2 – International Relations, GS3 – Energy Security

Context

India cautioned the US and EU regarding proposed sanctions and secondary tariffs on countries purchasing Russian oil, emphasizing national energy security and highlighting the inconsistency in Western policies.

• The US is considering the Russian Sanctions Act, 2025, potentially imposing 500% duties on India, China, Brazil, and others buying Russian oil.

• NATO and US leaders have pressured India and China to reduce Russian oil imports.

• India’s External Affairs Ministry reiterated “securing the energy needs of our people is an overriding priority,” voicing concerns of double standards—while EU also continues to import Russian oil in some forms.

• India has diversified energy supply, now sourcing from 40 countries, up from 27 in previous years.

• Diplomatic negotiations are ongoing, with emphasis on ‘energy security’ amid global volatility.

Conclusion/Way Forward:

• India is likely to maintain a pragmatic stance, prioritizing energy security and seeking balanced global engagement.

• The debate highlights the intersection between geopolitics, ethics in international affairs, and pragmatic national priorities.

Practice Question: “Discuss how India’s energy security concerns influence its foreign policy decisions in the context of Western sanctions on Russia. Critically analyze the concept of ‘double standards’ in international policies.

2. Madras HC: Ban on Caste-Based Restriction for Temple Entry

Source -Page 3, The Hindu City Edition

Topic: GS2 – Indian Polity and Social Justice (Vulnerable Sections)

Context

The Madras High Court ruled that no person can be denied entry into temples based on caste, reinforcing constitutional guarantees and social equity.

• The Court directed the police to ensure that caste-based restrictions in temple entry are removed.

• Cited constitutional provisions: Article 15(1), Articles 38 and 46 ensure non-discrimination and social justice.

• Stressed that the Tamil Nadu Temple Entry Authorization Act, 1947, was enacted after extensive struggles for social equality.

• Warned that those enforcing caste-based exclusions can be prosecuted.

Analysis:

• Reinforces the secular and egalitarian ethos of the Constitution.

• Challenges deep-rooted social hierarchies, supporting inclusivity and the protection of fundamental rights.

Conclusion/Way Forward:
A strong judicial stance on temple entry paves the way for greater social justice and upholds the spirit of constitutional morality.

Practice Question: “How do judicial interventions aid in the realization of social justice in India? Discuss with reference to court judgements on caste-based discrimination.

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