Today, On 19th December, The Supreme Court directed a tree census in Delhi and ruled that no more than 50 trees can be cut down without approval from the Central Empowered Committee (CEC). This order came in response to a plea seeking the Court’s role in upholding the Delhi Preservation of Trees Act, 1994. The initiative focuses on better oversight of tree felling and protecting the environment. The Court highlighted the importance of sustainable urban development through this decision.
Today, On 3rd December, Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna recused himself from hearing petitions challenging the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Act 2023, which removes the CJI from the appointment committee. The case will be heard by another bench starting January 6, 2025, as petitioners argue the law undermines the Election Commission’s independence established by a Supreme Court ruling.
The Supreme Court of India recently criticized the Kerala government for not providing a requested file to the Central Empowered Committee (CEC), which is tasked with overseeing environmental compliance and recommending measures to the State and Central governments. The CEC was established under the Environment Protection Act to support the Court’s directives on ecological issues.
Today, 9th May, The Supreme Court paused mining activities in the Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan, Haryana, Gujarat, and Delhi to protect the fragile ecosystem and prevent further degradation. Legal mining operations with valid permits are allowed. The court has directed the formation of a committee to establish a consistent definition of the Aravalli hills and ranges within two months.
The Supreme Court of India today refused to suspend the appointment of new Election Commissioners made under a controversial 2023 law. The exclusion of the Chief Justice of India from the selection committee raised concerns. The legal scrutiny stems from appointments overseen by Prime Minister Narendra Modi under the contentious legislation. The petition challenges the Act’s provisions and highlights the debate over the electoral appointment process.
Adhir Chowdhury of Congress Today questioned the Election Commissioner selection process, expressing dissatisfaction over lack of transparency. He claimed not receiving the shortlisted candidates’ names in advance, hindering informed decision-making. Government sources contradict this, stating that Chowdhury was sent five extensive lists of potential candidates. The incident highlights complexities in high-level governmental appointments, emphasizing the need for transparency.
The Supreme Court Today (March 13th) agreed to review a petition challenging the exclusion of the Chief Justice of India from the committee responsible for appointing the Chief Election Commissioner and other election commissioners. This legal battle highlights the ongoing debate over the independence and impartiality of India’s electoral appointment process.urgence and significance of the hearing is emphasized due to the upcoming elections.
The Supreme Court of India has approved the formation of a new expert committee, the Central Empowered Committee (CEC), by the Central Government to advise on environmental and forest-related issues. The court emphasized its intent to maintain oversight and authority over the newly formed panel, replacing the previous CEC established in 2002.