Today, On 9th July, The Supreme Court warned 30 states and Union Territories of contempt charges for not complying with directives on child adoption, specifically the establishment of Specialized Adoption Agencies in every district by January 31, 2024. Only a few states have fully complied, and the court is considering coercive measures for non-compliance. Additional hearings are scheduled for September.
The Supreme Court today reversed West Bengal authorities’ decision to cancel a private party’s contract to maintain underpasses in Kolkata, labeling it a “classic case of arbitrariness.” The court emphasized the need for proper explanation before terminating contracts with private parties. The case involved a firm that secured a 10-year contract and faced challenges when the contract was terminated without sufficient reason.
The Supreme Court today dismissed a petition to lower the cut-off for the All India Bar Examination, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high standards in the legal profession. With the existing passing marks at 45% for general category and 40% for SC/ST, the decision aims to ensure the quality of legal services.
Today(on 8th July), Chief Justice DY Chandrachud acknowledged the NEET-UG 2024 question paper leak, stressing the assessment of its impact on 23 lakh students before considering a re-examination, emphasizing the need for clarity on identifying affected candidates to determine if a retest is necessary.
Today(on 8th July),The Supreme Court will hear petitions on NEET-UG 2024 today, with 38 cases alleging irregularities in the May 5 exam. A bench led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud will review calls for a fresh exam, affecting nationwide medical admissions.
The Supreme Court will review 13 petitions challenging the 2023 verdict on same-sex marriage in India. A specially constituted five-judge bench, including Chief Justice Chandrachud, will consider the petitions. The review aims for a more inclusive interpretation of marriage laws to encompass same-sex couples. Justices Khanna and Nagarathna have replaced retired Justices Kaul and Bhat.
Today(on 29th June), Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Supreme Court Chief Justice DY Chandrachud shared the stage at the bicentenary celebration of the Calcutta High Court Bar Library in Kolkata. The event included a discussion meeting organized by the National Judicial Academy, highlighting their prominent roles in judiciary and politics.
Chief Justice Dr DY Chandrachud emphasized the judiciary’s selective role in societal disputes, clarifying the absence of direct governmental pressure during his term. He underlined the importance of Parliament legislating marriage laws, especially in the context of same-sex unions. Moreover, he highlighted the ongoing dialogue between the judiciary, litigants, and civil society, advocating for livestreaming constitutional cases.
The Allahabad High Court heard a PIL seeking Rahul Gandhi’s Lok Sabha membership cancellation. Advocate Pandey, representing the petitioner, argued that Rahul Gandhi is ineligible due to alleged British citizenship. The court questioned Pandey’s submission of the required deposit, based on his frequent PIL filings for publicity. The judge also objected to the presence of other petitioners and reporters in the courtroom.
The Supreme Court will launch a six-day special Lok Adalat to address 10,000 cases without charge, aiming to alleviate the backlog of 65,000 cases. This unprecedented initiative emphasizes amicable settlements facilitated by legal experts, accessible through video conferencing, aiming to reduce court workload and facilitate swift, cost-effective dispute resolution.
