State PCS - Uttar Pradesh (UP PCS)

• 06 Aug 2025

‘Operation Mahakal’ to Tackle Land Mafia and Extortionists

Why in News? 

Kanpur's police have initiated a bold crackdown on land mafia and extortion gangs with the launch of 'Operation Mahakal.'  

• This operation, launched on 5th August 2025, aims to identify, prosecute, and dismantle illegal land-grabbing activities, involving not only criminals but also influential individuals aiding them. 

Key Points 

• Phases of Operation: The operation is structured in two phases:  
  • Phase 1 (until 5th September 2025): Focuses on compiling a list of suspects involved in land-grabbing and extortion.  
  • Phase 2: From 15th September 2025, action will be taken, including asset confiscation and filing of charges. 
• Action against Collaborators: Investigations have uncovered connections between the land mafia and several white-collar professionals, including government employees, representatives, and journalists.  
  • The collaboration between these groups will be probed further.

Former Governor Satyapal Malik Passes Away

Why in News? 

Former Governor Satyapal Malik passed away at the age of 79 on 5th August 2025, after battling a prolonged illness. 

• He served as the Governor of five states, including Jammu and Kashmir, and played a pivotal role during the historic abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. 

 

Key points 

• Early Life: Malik was born on 24th July 1946, in Hisawada village, Uttar Pradesh.  
• Political Journey of Satyapal Malik:  
  • Student Politics: Began his political career in 1965 at Meerut College. 
  • Member of Legislative Assembly: Elected as MLA for Baghpat in 1974. 
  • Rajya Sabha: Entered the Rajya Sabha in 1980. 
    • Rejoined the Rajya Sabha in 1984 after a brief period of change. 
  • Lok Sabha: Elected to the Lok Sabha from Aligarh in 1989. 
  • Governor Positions: 
    • Bihar (2017–2018) 
    • Odisha (Additional charge in 2018) 
    • Jammu and Kashmir (2018–2019) 
    • Goa (2019–2020) 
    • Meghalaya (2020–2022) 

Governor