Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, retiring on November 10, clarified that judicial independence does not mean always opposing the government. He criticized pressure groups that demand favorable rulings, emphasizing that true independence requires judges to make unbiased decisions based on law and constitution, resisting manipulation in today’s media-driven society.
The Supreme Court Collegium, under Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, faced obstacles in judicial appointments, with key recommendations for Saurabh Kirpal and R. John Sathyan stalled by the government. Notably, no women were recommended for the Supreme Court. Delays and concerns over government interference have prompted judicial discourse on these appointments.
Justice Sanjiv Khanna is set to become the 51st Chief Justice of India, emphasizing personal liberty and effective judicial processes. He has a noteworthy ability to cross-examine from memory and began his legal journey at Tis Hazari Court. His controversial elevation to the Supreme Court in 2019 highlights his commitment to a robust legal career.
Today, On 21st October, Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud announced a two-week extension for an expert panel reviewing NEET-UG reforms. The Supreme Court’s decision allows the panel to finalize its comprehensive report, addressing key issues in the exam’s administration and highlighting security lapses, while ensuring improvements in transparency and efficiency.
Today, On 15th October, the Supreme Court expressed concerns about the recruitment methods for civic police volunteers after Sanjay Roy, an accused in a junior doctor’s rape and murder, was identified as one. The Court demanded transparency and data from the West Bengal government regarding these volunteers, emphasizing their qualifications and oversight.
Today, On 1st October, junior doctors at R.G. Kar Medical College resumed their strike over the slow CBI investigation into a rape-murder case and the Supreme Court’s delays. They seek urgent action, improved safety measures, and expanded demands, highlighting a lack of governmental responsiveness and the need for genuine healthcare reform.
Today, On 24th September, the Supreme Court exempted a Ministry of Environment official and contractors from appearing in a case concerning tree felling in Delhi’s Ridge area, while legal proceedings continue. The court criticized the DDA’s actions regarding deforestation and emphasized the importance of environmental protection and proper judicial processes.
The Supreme Court, today (24th Sept) led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, will review petitions on Sept 24 concerning sub-classification within Scheduled Castes for reservation benefits. The Court had previously ruled that states can implement such classifications based on data demonstrating backwardness. This decision overturned a past ruling affirming SCs as a homogeneous class.
The Supreme Court, today (20th Sept) led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, dismissed SpiceJet’s appeal against a Delhi High Court ruling requiring the airline to ground three aircraft engines due to unpaid dues. The High Court upheld that SpiceJet’s default violated a payment arrangement, emphasizing the urgency to protect the lessors’ interests.
Today, On 19th September, Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud revealed that approximately 37,000 Supreme Court judgments have been translated into Hindi since 1947, with ongoing translations into other regional languages. This initiative aims to increase legal accessibility. The e-SCR project offers free digital access to judgments, enhancing usage of neutral citations in legal practice.
