Today (16th May): The Supreme Court ruled that Air India Limited ceased to be a state entity under Article 12 of the Constitution after its disinvestment and transfer to the Tata Group. The court dismissed appeals against the Bombay High Court’s verdict, stating that post-privatization, the company no longer fell under the court’s writ jurisdiction. The appellants were directed to seek alternative avenues for remedy.
More than 400 Short Service Commissioned Officers (SSCOs) are seeking post-retirement benefits, alleging discrimination and citing violations of their constitutional rights. They argue that they are denied benefits under various pension schemes and are left without financial support post-retirement. The case, acknowledged by the Supreme Court, could have significant implications for similar cases in various sectors.
The Bombay High Court ruled in favor of a female employee denied maternity leave by the Airport Authority of India due to having two children. The court emphasized the naturalness of motherhood and the need for employers to show understanding and provide necessary support. The AAI’s denial was invalidated, and the employee was granted maternity leave benefits.
Today (29th April): The Supreme Court observed that requiring individuals to share their Google pin location as a condition for bail violates their fundamental rights under Article 21, which guarantees the right to privacy. The Court emphasized that while there have been instances where such conditions were imposed, they cannot be a prerequisite for bail.
The Kerala High Court intervened in the violence on Bigg Boss, directing action against it and sending notices to actor Mohanlal, Disney, and Asianet. This signals a potential shift in regulatory oversight for such shows. The Court’s directive based on a petition highlighting instances of physical assault, which are in violation of government advisories. The next hearing for the matter scheduled for May 20.
The Supreme Court has highlighted the dangers of celebratory firing at weddings, emphasizing the loss of innocent lives. The accessibility of illegal firearms, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, was criticized as a violation of the right to life. Justices also emphasized that the right to bear arms is not a fundamental right protected by the Constitution.
Today (20th March): The Supreme Court criticized the Enforcement Directorate for denying default bail by filing supplementary chargesheets, leading to indefinite detention. They emphasized that individuals should not be detained without trial, pointing out a specific case of 18 months of detention. The court also highlighted the importance of timely justice delivery.
The Supreme Court of India emphasized the need for fair bail conditions, stating that high surety amounts violate fundamental rights. The case involved Ashok Sandeep Singh facing multiple charges. Despite being granted bail by the High Court, Singh remained confined due to a prohibitively high surety amount. The Supreme Court intervened, reducing the amount significantly, providing relief to Singh.
On 11th March, The Punjab and Haryana High Court emphasized a woman’s sexual autonomy as a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution, particularly in relation to the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act. The court highlighted the need for legal recognition and support for unmarried women’s reproductive rights and addressed the ethical implications of their choices.
The Supreme Court of India emphasized the right to dissent and freedom of speech, stating that criticizing government actions is not a crime. The court urged law enforcement agencies to understand and respect citizens’ rights to express dissent, stressing the need to evaluate statements based on their impact on reasonable individuals, rather than hypersensitive interpretations.
