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Editorials · 18 August 2026 · Indian Polity & Governance

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18 August 2026

GS-2Editorials18 Aug 2026thehindu.com

On dignity in political discourse

The article analyzes the controversy surrounding a remark by Tamil Nadu's Leader of Opposition, Udhayanidhi Stalin, during a rally, leading to his arrest. It uses this incident to highlight a broader shift in Tamil Nadu politics towards personality-driven discourse, amplified by social media, replacing ideological debates with personal attacks. The author criticizes the erosion of dignity and the resurgence of misogyny, contrasting it with the foundational ideals of self-respect and social justice of the Dravidian movement and the DMK. The article calls for accountability from the leader and the party to uphold political ethics and dignity in public life.

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GS-2Editorials18 Aug 2026thehindu.com

The ‘proud Assamese’ from other States

The article discusses Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's appeal to non-native residents to identify as 'Assamese' in the ongoing Census exercise. This appeal aims to counter the declining share of Assamese speakers and address the state's changing ethno-religious demographics. The article delves into historical migration patterns, the assimilation of Bengali-origin Muslims (Na-Axomiyas), and the political motivations behind such demographic appeals, particularly concerning the protection of 'indigenous Assamese' and electoral calculus.

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GS-2Editorials18 Aug 2026thehindu.com

Awaiting answers: On the student protests in Jharkhand

Students in Jharkhand are protesting against alleged irregularities in the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) examinations, demanding cancellation of disputed exams, a CBI investigation, and reconstitution of commissions. The protests highlight deep-rooted issues of transparency, delayed results, and lack of accountability in public sector recruitment in the state, leading to a loss of trust among aspirants. The state government has responded with investigations, arrests, and the cancellation of some exams conducted by a blacklisted agency, but faces pressure to ensure a fair and predictable recruitment system.

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