All Editorials Snapshot: 05-September-2025

The Hindu Editorials snapshot

Editorial 1

 ​Process as punishment: On the Umar Khalid case

The continued refusal to grant bail to Umar Khalid and other accused in the Delhi riots case highlights how harsh security laws and a cautious judiciary can turn long pre-trial detention into a punishment before conviction. The court based its decision on strict sections of the UAPA law, which make it very difficult for anyone charged to get bail, especially if the prosecution presents a large collection of evidence. Sometimes, simply being accused and a large charge sheet can mean years in jail before trial, with the law allowing prosecutors extra time to investigate and no early bail. Yet courts have the power to give relief when there are long delays without trial. Earlier, another bench recognised that peaceful protest should not be treated like terrorism, but now, protest speeches and organising have been enough to justify detention under terrorism laws. This creates the risk that anyone expressing dissent could lose their rights to freedom and be treated as guilty just for being accused.

Editorial 2

Cuts in time: On the new GST system

The recent Goods and Services Tax (GST) rate cuts approved by the GST Council offer a much-needed boost to the economy and consumer mood. While some say these reforms were delayed, the GST Council—a federal body made up of central and state governments—acted quickly and with broad agreement from states. Most GST rates have been lowered, making many goods and services cheaper, with only a few high-end items becoming costlier. These tax reductions, along with recent cuts in personal income tax, should raise consumption levels during a time when exports and private investments are slowing down. The estimated revenue loss for the government is around ₹48,000 crore annually, although actual figures may vary. Removal of the compensation cess, which some opposition states wanted to keep, helps avoid complicating the new system. States will now need to find other ways to make up for lost revenues. While some complexities remain, the GST 2.0 system is a significant improvement by correcting tax rate issues and reducing paperwork. The government should restart the National Anti-Profiteering Authority to ensure tax savings reach consumers once the new rates take effect from September 22.

The Indian Express Editorials snapshot

Editorial 3

Gaza’s children

A new film shown at the Venice Film Festival tells the powerful story of Hind Rajab, a young girl in Gaza who called for help after her family died in a tank attack, but despite being close by, rescuers couldn’t reach her due to war and bureaucratic obstacles. The film moved audiences deeply, highlighting how the voices of Gaza’s children cry out for help. Other children in Gaza show moments of hope, smiling and sharing daily joys like cooking and caring for pets, even while living in tents and under the constant threat of violence. These brief images remind viewers that behind every child’s strength is loss and fear. The editorial urges that, despite the endless cycle of distress, the world must not ignore what Gaza’s children go through, as their daily lives represent humanity’s loss if forgotten.

Editorial 4

Welcome GST 2.0

India is moving ahead with major changes to GST (Goods and Services Tax), reducing the number of tax rates from many to just two main slabs—5% and 18%—with a special 40% rate for luxury and sin goods. This move will simplify the tax system, make it easier to follow, and reduce confusion over product categorisation. Lower tax rates mean everyday goods like shampoo and toothpaste are now much cheaper, and even items like TVs and air conditioners have dropped from 28% to 18%. Insurance policies are newly exempt from GST, and taxes on cement and vehicles have been cut. These changes come as India faces tough global conditions, including high tariffs from the US. The hope is that lower taxes will increase people’s purchases and make compliance easier for businesses, but the government expects less revenue for now—around Rs 48,000 crore less. However, higher demand and more honest reporting may balance this out over time.

Top Vocabulary Picks from Today’s Editorials

WordSimple MeaningSynonymAntonym
Prima facieBased on first impression; at first viewApparent, evidentHidden, unclear
IncarcerationImprisonmentDetention, confinementFreedom, release
AstutelyIn a clever or perceptive wayCleverly, wiselyFoolishly, blindly
SputteringStruggling or failing to work properlyStruggling, stallingThriving, succeeding
KernelCentral, most important partCore, heartEdge, outside

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