The Supreme Court of India Today (Oct 17) is considering several petitions that seek to criminalize marital rape, which is currently exempt from prosecution under Indian law if it occurs between spouses. The case is being heard by a bench led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud, along with Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra. Senior Advocate Karuna Nundy appeared before the court, representing civil appeals. During the proceedings, the CJI asked Nundy, “Are you appearing before us in the appeal against the Delhi High Court verdict?” Nundy confirmed, “Yes, I am appearing.” The CJI noted, “It is a constitutional question. There are two judgments before us, and we need to make a decision.”
![[RG Kar Rape] "They Manhandled Women Protestors, Violating Our Fundamental Rights": 9 Arrested Protestors To Be Produced Before Court Today](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/image-6-3.png?resize=447%2C367&ssl=1)
Today, On 10th October, , nine protestors, including junior doctors, arrested during RG Kar protests in Kolkata, will appear in court. They decried the arrests as violations of their rights while demanding justice for Abhaya, a victim of rape and murder. Earlier, civic volunteers allegedly manhandled protestors at a Durga Puja pandal.
Yesterday, On 9th October, the Madras High Court dismissed a habeas corpus petition concerning the arrest of eight Samsung workers during a protest. The court found the petition unnecessary as the arrested individuals had been released by a magistrate. While this case’s legal issue was resolved, broader social and labor concerns remain unaddressed.
Today, On 3rd October, the Centre argued against decriminalizing marital rape, asserting that existing laws protect married women’s consent. The Union Home Ministry emphasized that marital violations differ from other cases and suggested that criminalization is a societal issue requiring broader consultation. Current laws already address consent violations within marriage, the Centre stated.
![[New Criminal Law] "Over 5.56 lakh FIRs Registered Under BNS from July 1 to September 3": Home Ministry Official Report](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/The-thoughtless-Section-377-IPC____.jpg?resize=321%2C157&ssl=1)
A Home Ministry official reported 5.6 lakh FIRs filed under new criminal laws from July 1 to September 3. The Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Travellers Program has improved immigration clearance by 60% for international passengers. The NCRB set up a helpline to support states in implementing these laws effectively.
Today, On 13th September, The Delhi High Court granted interim bail to four individuals involved in the deaths of three civil services aspirants in a flooded coaching institute’s basement. They must pay Rs. 5 crore to the Red Cross Society. The court also directed the Lieutenant Governor to form a committee to prevent coaching centers from operating in basements.
Former Chief Justice of India UU Lalit praised the new criminal laws for addressing mob lynching and welcomed changes related to hit-and-run cases. He supported the 15-day police custody rule and hailed the abolition of the colonial-era sedition law. Lalit compared the new laws to previous anti-terrorism legislation and emphasized the need for a democratic society.
An FIR filed against Kerala lawyer TK Ajan for indecent behavior during a virtual court appearance. He allegedly exposed himself and made obscene gestures, leading to the termination of the video conference session by the court. The charges include offenses under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Kerala Police Act. This incident highlights challenges posed by virtual court hearings in maintaining courtroom decorum.
![[UPSC Aspirants’ Death Case] "Owner Knowingly Used Basement for Commercial Purposes Violating MCD Guidelines": CBI](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/image-93.png?resize=447%2C367&ssl=1)
The CBI requested custody of the owner of a coaching institute and others involved in the death of three UPSC aspirants due to waterlogging. The institute allegedly violated building usage regulations, leading to tragic deaths. The court ordered the accused to be remanded to CBI custody, citing the necessity of a thorough investigation.
Today, On 28th August, The Delhi High Court gave the Centre six months to address the exclusion of ‘unnatural offences’ from the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), expressing concern over non-consensual acts no longer being punishable. The absence of equivalent provisions in the BNS to address such acts has faced criticism. The Court instructed the government to make a decision within six months.