The Supreme Court has given the Bihar government six weeks to respond to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) addressing safety concerns following multiple bridge collapses. Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna highlighted the urgency of the matter, directing both the state and the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) to provide detailed responses.
Today, On 4th November, the Chief Justice of India will review a Public Interest Litigation concerning frequent bridge collapses in Bihar, deemed a public safety hazard. The PIL requests a structural audit and formation of an expert panel to ensure bridge safety, following multiple collapses that threaten lives, particularly in flood-prone areas.
Yesterday, On 25th October, the Supreme Court criticized the Patna High Court for issuing post-dated bail orders that would take effect only after five months. The Supreme Court emphasized the need for timely justice and remanded the cases for reconsideration. This ruling reflects a broader push for transparency in legal proceedings.
The Supreme Court set aside the Bihar government’s cancellation of the 2019 junior engineer selection process, labeling it “impermissible.” The court ordered the Bihar Technical Service Commission to continue appointing candidates based on a fresh select list, emphasizing that altering recruitment rules post-process compromises candidates’ rights. Appointments must be completed within specified timeframes.
The Supreme Court issued a notice to the Bihar Government and Assembly office regarding RJD leader Rambali Singh’s expulsion from the Bihar Assembly. Singh’s petition challenges the decision of the Patna High Court, based on procedural flaws in the complaint against him. The next hearing is scheduled for October 25.
The Supreme Court expressed concern over the disposal of plastic waste in riverbanks and water bodies, emphasizing the environmental threat it poses. The Court instructed government bodies to address the issue and submit an affidavit within four weeks. Additionally, the Court ordered the removal of unauthorized constructions near the Ganga River in Patna.
Today(on 29th July), The Supreme Court of India has requested responses from the Bihar government and the NHAI regarding a PIL addressing safety concerns over Bihar’s bridges, following recent collapses. The court, led by CJI DY Chandrachud, has called for a structural audit and expert panel to assess whether the bridges need strengthening or demolition.
The Supreme Court overturned Bihar’s decision to reclassify the Tanti-Tantwa community as Scheduled Castes, reiterating that only the central government can modify these lists as per Article 341 of the Indian Constitution. The Court directed reallocation of affected individuals to Extremely Backward Classes without penalizing them.
Today, On 2nd July, The Bihar government approached the Supreme Court following Patna High Court’s ruling that invalidated a law increasing reservations for SC/STs and backward classes to 65% in 2023, reducing the open merit category to 35%. The High Court declared the amendment unconstitutional, citing infringement on equal opportunity. This decision is now contested before the Supreme Court.
Bihar Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary announced plans to challenge Patna High Court’s decision to increase reservations for SC, ST, and OBC categories in the Supreme Court. The decision has generated strong reactions with political leaders and activists expressing differing views. The outcome of this legal battle is anticipated to have significant implications for reservation policies nationwide.
