Today, On 24th October, the Supreme Court provided interim protection to journalist Mamta Tripathi, who faced multiple FIRs for tweeting about caste bias in Uttar Pradesh’s administration. The Court has requested the state government’s response to her plea for quashing the FIRs, emphasizing journalists’ rights under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution.
Yesterday, On 23rd October, Ganesh Handore, son of Congress MP Chandrakant Handore, was released by the Bombay High Court after being arrested for a hit-and-run incident in October. The court criticized police for overreach in charging him with culpable homicide, stating the case only involved rash and negligent driving. A person was critically injured in the accident.
Today, On 17th October, Senior Advocate Karuna Nundy argued in the Supreme Court for the criminalization of marital rape, challenging the validity of IPC Section 375’s exception. The Central government opposes this change, citing existing protections and concerns over marital dynamics. A crucial hearing will occur on October 22, with significant legal implications.
The Kerala High Court ruled that referring to a woman as a “prostitute” in her absence does not violate Section 509 of the Indian Penal Code, as the offense requires her presence. The court dismissed criminal proceedings, affirming that derogatory remarks made to third parties do not automatically intrude on a woman’s privacy.
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.
Today, On 9th October, the Delhi High Court responded to a public interest litigation challenging ticket scalping, where concert tickets are resold at high prices. Filed by Rohan Gupta, the petition highlights consumer exploitation and requests guidelines to govern ticket sales. The court seeks input from authorities, with the next hearing scheduled for February 2025.
Yesterday, On 8th October, the Calcutta High Court ordered a CBI investigation into alleged custodial torture of two women arrested during protests related to a doctor’s rape and murder. The court emphasized the need for an independent inquiry due to possible conflicts of interest within local law enforcement. The investigation focuses on police actions from September 8 to 11.
Delhi Police achieved their first conviction under the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) laws, sentencing 20-year-old Neeraj to three months’ imprisonment for burglary. After stealing valuables from a residence, Neeraj was arrested using CCTV evidence. This case, marking a significant legal milestone, showcases the enforcement of the new criminal laws.
Today, On 3rd October, the Supreme Court overturned an Allahabad High Court ruling that upheld criminal proceedings against Hindustan Unilever officials for alleged abetment of suicide under Section 306 IPC. The Court criticized the High Court’s interpretation, stating that recommending early retirement did not constitute instigation, thereby quashing the charges.
The Delhi High Court highlighted the need to discard outdated criminal laws in favor of newly enacted legislation, reinforcing Parliament’s intent. The court condemned reliance on old laws in new petitions, urging adherence to the updated legal framework established on July 1, 2024, to enhance justice effectiveness and align with modern societal needs.
