The Supreme Court ruled that High Court judges must adhere to jurisdiction assigned by the Chief Justice, prohibiting them from reclassifying petitions without consent. In a case concerning the dismissal of a writ petition, the Court upheld this authority, emphasizing that jurisdictional assignment is crucial for judges when hearing cases.
Kapil Sibal, during a Sikkim Judicial Academy lecture, today (26th Oct) criticized the Collegium system for judicial appointments, claiming it lacks merit and creates challenges. He noted that liberal judges often alter their judgments when elevated to Chief Justice due to ambitions for the Supreme Court, leading to a questionable judicial hierarchy that undermines independence.
The Bombay Bar Association honored Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud for his impactful tenure as he nears retirement. His legacy includes landmark rulings promoting equality and individual rights, and he emphasized transparency and inclusivity in the judiciary. Attendees praised his commitment to compassionate justice and improving access for marginalized groups.
Today, On 23rd October, the Centre appointed five advocates as additional judges of the Bombay High Court for two years, amid a judge shortage (64 out of 94). This decision aims to alleviate the backlog of cases. The judges, recommended by the Supreme Court Collegium, bring significant legal expertise to enhance judicial efficiency.
Today, On 22nd October, a lawyer humorously mistook Justice Hrishikesh Roy for filmmaker Hrishikesh Mukherjee during a Supreme Court session, prompting laughter from the courtroom. Chief Justice DY Chandrachud corrected the mix-up, illustrating the unexpected intersection of legal proceedings with cinematic references and highlighting the enduring legacy of Mukherjee’s films.
Yesterday, On 22nd October, the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, agreed to hear a petition for adopting hybrid mode hearings in family courts across India. The petition highlights delays in case resolutions affecting women and children, advocating for timely justice through a combination of virtual and physical appearances, addressing logistical challenges.
Today, On 18th October, the Chief Justice of India ordered the submission of English essay answer sheets scoring below 15 marks from the Rajasthan Civil Judge Exam, addressing fairness concerns. The Supreme Court will review petitions challenging the evaluation process, emphasizing transparency and the impact of low scores on candidates’ eligibility in this competitive examination.
Today, On 18th October, Supreme Court Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud reaffirmed that child marriage laws supersede personal laws, emphasizing the protection of minors’ rights. The court mandated enforcing the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act with a focus on preventive strategies and community involvement, while urging Parliament to consider stricter measures against child betrothals.
The All India Bar Association (AIBA) criticized a Madras High Court judge’s outburst during a virtual hearing, calling it inappropriate. AIBA urged the Chief Justice of India to create a monitoring committee, address breaches of confidentiality, and ensure respectful courtroom behavior. Concerns were raised about the implications for judicial conduct and advocate rights.
Yesterday, On 7th October, the Bombay High Court mandated departmental action against a Mumbai Magistrate for approving the detention of a man without documented justification. The court criticized the lack of legal compliance, stating magistrates must ensure arrests are founded on facts. The state was ordered to compensate Rs. 25,000 to the detained individual.
