The Supreme Court Today declined to halt the judicial inquiry into the death of a 22-year-old amid the farmers’ protest at the Punjab-Haryana border. The court acknowledged concerns, emphasizing transparency and fairness in investigations. It dismissed the government’s apprehension about affecting police morale. The case will be heard next on April 19.
Today (22nd March)A PIL was filed in the Delhi High Court to remove Arvind Kejriwal as Chief Minister after his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate in a money laundering case linked to an excise policy. The petition demands explanations from relevant authorities and calls for Kejriwal’s dismissal. The court will schedule a hearing after addressing certain flaws in the petition.
The Calcutta High Court Today directed the Centre to respond to a PIL alleging Aadhaar cards deactivation without notice. The petitioner, a West Bengal NGO, claims arbitrary deactivation affecting many residents. The Centre questioned the PIL’s validity, arguing that Section 28A of the Aadhaar Act applies only to foreign nationals. The case challenges the constitutionality of Regulation 28A, with widespread implications.
The Indian Coast Guard Today expressed commitment to increasing women officers in the Supreme Court, but cited recruitment rules preventing their transition to permanent commission. The Court directed the Centre to ensure inclusivity, criticizing functional arguments against it. This emphasizes the judiciary’s push for gender equality within the armed forces, advocating fair treatment and opportunities for women.
The Supreme Court of India, led by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud, Today has converted a letter into a Public Interest Litigation to examine rules in Madhya Pradesh that prevent visually impaired candidates from becoming judicial officers. This proactive step highlights the judiciary’s commitment to addressing inequality and injustice, setting a precedent for a more inclusive legal system.
The Supreme Court emphasized the inclusion of women in defense services, responding to a petition by a female Coast Guard officer seeking a permanent commission. The judges criticized the Coast Guard’s exclusion of women compared to the Army and Navy, citing gender equality and the Babita Punia judgment. The court requested a formal response from the Centre and set a follow-up hearing for March 1.
The Supreme Court ruled that enemy properties vested with government-appointed custodians are not assets of the central government. The court emphasized that the custodian is a trustee and does not acquire ownership of the assets. Hence, the central government cannot claim exemption from civic taxes. The ruling favored the Lucknow Municipal Corporation in their appeal.
On August 23, a petition was filed in the Supreme Court alleging violation of farmers’ rights during peaceful protests by the Centre and certain states. The plea seeks fair treatment and consideration of farmers’ demands, citing aggressive measures by authorities and lack of medical aid. It also requests a report on alleged human rights violations and compensation for affected farmers.
The Punjab and Haryana High Court rejected an urgent hearing plea from the Centre on the farmers’ protest, as protestors intensify their demand for a minimum support price. The court postponed the case to February 29, as the farmers resumed their march towards Delhi. Haryana police’s use of tear gas has resulted in injuries.