Former Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud highlighted the complexities of judicial appointments in India, emphasizing the collaboration between the judiciary and government. He addressed concerns over delays, stressing the importance of a robust dialogue and acknowledging the role of multiple stakeholders. Chandrachud maintained that this multi-layered process ensures fairness and upholds judicial independence.
Today, On 23rd October, the Supreme Court ruled that state governments can tax and regulate industrial alcohol, with Justice BV Nagarathna dissenting. She argued that such authority undermines uniform development and emphasized that only the Union government can legislate on this issue. The majority found industrial alcohol included under “intoxicating liquor.”
Today, On 14th October, Chief Justice DY Chandrachud announced the Supreme Court’s expansion in New Delhi, focusing on timely justice delivery. The project features an 86,000 square meter building with 29 new courtrooms and facilities for lawyers. Emphasizing sustainability and inclusivity, the expansion reflects the judiciary’s responsiveness to societal needs.
The Supreme Court’s ruling on October 3 addressed caste discrimination in Indian prisons, asserting that Article 21 extends the right to life and personal liberty, including equality regardless of caste. The Court condemned systemic discrimination, called for reforms, and initiated oversight to ensure compliance with constitutional rights among inmates.
The Central government Today (Oct 3) informed the Supreme Court that the prohibitory order issued by the Delhi Police under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which barred the assembly of five or more people in the national capital from September 30 to October 5, had been withdrawn. A Bench led by CJI Chandrachud recorded SG Tushar Mehta’s submission regarding the withdrawal of the order.
The Supreme Court Today (Oct 3) made it clear that caste-based discrimination in prisons across the country would not be tolerated and registered a suo motu case to monitor the issue The plea referred to the Kerala Prison Rules and said they lay down a distinction between a habitual and a re-convicted convict, holding that those who are by habit a robber, house breaker, dacoit or thief should be classified and separated from other convict.
In 2023, India reported 35,000 child pornography cases, a 25% increase from the previous year. Legal frameworks like the POCSO Act and the IT Act aim to combat this exploitation, but enforcement remains challenging due to technology and public unawareness. The Supreme Court emphasized the need for sex education as a preventive measure.
Today, On 23rd September, Chief Justice DY Chandrachud reaffirmed the Indian judiciary’s independence, emphasizing that judges operate autonomously in judicial matters but collaborate with the government on budgeting and infrastructure. He aimed to clarify that this cooperation does not undermine judicial independence, as it is essential for modernizing court facilities for public benefit.
NUJS alumni appealed to Chief Justice DY Chandrachud regarding the absence of convocation ceremonies for the 2021-2024 batches, last held in October 2022 and February 2019. They express concerns over the delay’s impact on graduates’ academic and career prospects, urging expeditious scheduling to honor their achievements.
