30 April 2025: The Hindu Editorial Analysis
1. The optics of darker when wet.
(Source – Page 7, The Hindu International Edition)
| Topic: GS Paper 3 – Science and Technology | Prelims – Basic Science Applications (Physics, Optics). |
| Context |
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Scientific Explanation:
- Color Perception: The color of any object is determined by the spectrum of light it reflects.
- Dry Surface: When a cloth is dry, the reflected light rays (corresponding to its color) are superposed with scattered white light due to surface irregularities.
- Wet Surface: Water fills surface irregularities, reducing scattering. Light penetrates more deeply, resulting in increased absorption and less reflection, making it look darker.
Specific to Fabric Types:
- Cotton: Loosely packed fibers with air gaps increase light scattering when dry → appears lighter. When wet, water reduces gaps → appears darker.
- Synthetic/Silk: Tightly packed, smoother surfaces absorb less water and light → smaller change in appearance when wet.
Underlying Principles:
- Scattering: Dominant on rough surfaces.
- Absorption: More in wet surfaces due to deeper light penetration.
- Refraction & Total Internal Reflection: Occurs at water-material boundaries, reducing reflected light reaching the eye.
Conceptual Importance:
- Demonstrates real-life application of optics.
- Useful for understanding light behavior in various materials – applicable in remote sensing, imaging technologies, and climate science (e.g., wet soils in satellite imagery).
| Practice Question: Explain, with scientific reasoning, why materials such as cotton appear darker when wet. What does this reveal about the behavior of light on different surfaces? (150 words) |
2. A Sri Lankan anti-terror law needing repeal.
(Source – Page 8, The Hindu International Edition, 30 April 2025)
| Topic: GS Paper 2 – Governance | Comparative Constitution | Human Rights | International Relations (India–Sri Lanka ties) |
| Context |
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Background:
- The Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) was enacted in 1979 as a temporary measure.
- It has been used disproportionately against Tamils and Muslims, especially during and after the civil war (1983–2009).
- Though a replacement law (ATA 2023) has been drafted, the PTA still remains active.
Key Issues with the PTA:
- Extended detentions without trial (up to one year).
- Allows confessions extracted under duress or torture to be admissible in court.
- Grants sweeping powers to police and military, with limited judicial review.
- Used widely for suppressing dissent, targeting journalists, students, and activists.
International & Domestic Criticism:
- UNHRC and multiple rights groups have urged repeal, calling it incompatible with international human rights standards.
- In 2022, mass protests led to the fall of the Gotabaya Rajapaksa regime, partially fueled by authoritarian abuse of such laws.
- The current Wickremesinghe government had promised reform but has continued PTA enforcement.
India–Sri Lanka Relevance:
- India has diplomatic interest in the welfare of Tamils in Sri Lanka.
- Ethnic tensions and repression could destabilize regional peace and strain ties.
- A democratic, inclusive Sri Lanka aligns with India’s Neighborhood First and SAGAR policies.
Way Forward:
- Sri Lanka must:
- Repeal the PTA fully, not just dilute it.
- Enact ATA 2023 with necessary safeguards (judicial oversight, time-bound trials).
- Uphold freedom of expression and minority rights to restore domestic and international confidence.
- Work with international human rights institutions and civil society.
| Practice Question: The continued use of Sri Lanka’s Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) has raised concerns over human rights and democratic backsliding. Critically examine the law in the context of international norms and its implications for India-Sri Lanka relations. (250 words) |
Read more – 29 April 2025: The Hindu Editorial Analysis
