![[Inhumane Prison Conditions] ‘Last Person Matters Most’: SC On Freeing Eligible Female Undertrial Prisoners](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/image-17-2.png?resize=447%2C367&ssl=1)
The Supreme Court urged jail superintendents to proactively identify eligible female undertrial prisoners for release under Section 479(1) of the BNSS, aiming to address overcrowding and inhumane conditions. The Court stressed the necessity of focusing on women prisoners, particularly those with children, and reprimanded certain states for non-compliance with reporting.
![[Delhi Excise Policy Case] 'Appeared 60 Times': Manish Sisodia Seeks SC Relief on Bail Conditions](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/image-61.png?resize=447%2C367&ssl=1)
Today, On 22nd November, Manish Sisodia petitioned the Supreme Court to ease his bail conditions related to the Delhi Excise Policy case, specifically the requirement to report to the investigating officer twice a week. The Court scheduled a prompt hearing and acknowledged the impact of trial delays on his right to a speedy trial.
The Supreme Court requested the Centre’s response to a petition challenging the use of derogatory caste names in official certificates. The petition argues these terms violate dignity and equality principles, perpetuating stigma against Scheduled Castes. The petitioners seek to replace offensive terms with less discriminatory alternatives in official documents.
![[BREAKING] "We Instructed Judges to Allow Virtual Hearings”: CJI Sanjiv Khanna Permits Online Appearances Amid Delhi Air Pollution](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Screenshot-2024-11-11-104311.png?resize=447%2C300&ssl=1)
Today, On 19th November, Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna has permitted online attendance for lawyers and encouraged virtual court hearings due to deteriorating air quality in Delhi. This adaptive measure aims to safeguard health amid escalating pollution levels. The Supreme Court also mandated the suspension of in-person classes for grades up to 12 in response to the crisis.
On Monday(18th Nov), the Supreme Court heard a plea seeking the enforcement of measures to curb air pollution in Delhi and surrounding areas. A bench comprising Justices Abhay S. Oka and Augustine George Masih expressed serious concerns over delays in implementing the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
Justice Oka questioned the Delhi counsel, stating, “Why was the GRAP mechanism not invoked? How can you risk delaying such critical measures?” In response to the counsel’s clarification that stage 4 of GRAP was now in effect, the bench emphasized that the Delhi government must not lower it without court approval, even if the Air Quality Index (AQI) improves below 300. The bench remarked, “We are making it clear that you will not go below stage 4 without our permission.”
Today, On 18th November, the Supreme Court will hear a case about Delhi’s severe pollution levels, questioning why the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) failed to implement necessary measures. The court emphasized the right to a pollution-free environment and criticized authorities for inaction amid worsening air quality, highlighting concerns over environmental health.
The Supreme Court, led by Justices Oka and Masih, today (14th Nov) scrutinized the Delhi government’s lack of action amid the city’s alarming air pollution levels, recently the worst globally. Concerns were raised regarding firecracker ban enforcement and stubble burning from neighboring states. A decision on a permanent firecracker ban is anticipated by November 25.
In a ruling on Wednesday(13th Nov), the Supreme Court emphasized that the Executive cannot replace the Judiciary and the law should not prejudge an accused’s guilt, notably in response to petitions against “bulldozer actions” in which the properties of alleged offenders are demolished by state authorities.
The Kerala High Court emphasized the need for responsible media reporting, cautioning against “media trials” that presuppose guilt or innocence in ongoing cases. While freedom of speech is fundamental, it must not overshadow the judiciary’s role or the accused’s right to a fair trial, warning against prejudicing public opinion.
The Rajasthan High Court ruled that the right to live with dignity includes a husband’s duty to his family, granting interim bail to a man to care for his critically ill wife. The court emphasized that fulfilling familial responsibilities is essential to personal dignity, citing Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.