Morning Current Affairs: 16 December 2017

Union Cabinet approves bill criminalising ‘instant’ Triple Talaq

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 15 December 2017 approved the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2017 that seeks to criminalise instant triple talaq among Muslims.

According to the Union government, it is aimed at protecting the dignity and security of women in the Muslim community. The draft bill proposes that triple talaq should be made a cognisable and non-bailable offence that would attract a jail term of three years. The draft law was prepared in the backdrop of Supreme Court’s verdict on 22 August that held the Islamic practice of “instant” triple talaq as unconstitutional.

Now the bill will be tabled in the Winter Session of Parliament for discussion.

Vijay Diwas observed nationally

Vijay Diwas was observed across the nation on 16 December 2017. The day is commemorated every year, as it marks India’s victory over Pakistan during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, which led to the creation of Bangladesh.

The day’s celebrations would witness participation from many ex-servicemen who had fought in the war. This year marks the 46th anniversary of India's victory over its neighbour. The day is celebrated as a Victory day by Bangladesh as well, as the surrender of Pakistan Armed Forces marked an end to its 9-month-long Liberation War.

Roger Federer named BBC Overseas Sports Personality of the Year

Roger Federer has been voted as the BBC Overseas Sports Personality of the Year for a record fourth time.

The 36-year-old enjoyed a remarkable season this year, returning from six months out with knee trouble to win his first grand slam title since 2012 at the Australian Open. He followed it up with a record eighth Wimbledon title and ended the season with a 52-5 record and world number two rank, right behind his rival Rafael Nadal.

Federer had previously won the award in 2004, 2006 and 2007. Other sportsmen to have won the award three times include Muhammad Ali and Usain Bolt.