Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal announced the introduction of new criminal laws from July 1, aiming to replace outdated colonial-era laws in India. Despite opposition claims of non-consultation, Meghwal assured ongoing training programs and infrastructure development to support the transition, emphasizing the focus on timely and efficient justice delivery in the modern legal framework.
Today, On 6th June, The Supreme Court ruled that compensating victims in criminal cases should not reduce the accused’s sentence. Such payments aim to rehabilitate victims, not to mitigate punishment, and using compensation to lessen sentences would disrupt criminal justice. The court stressed the importance of considering victims separately from sentencing and directed additional compensation for the convicts.
The Delhi High Court dismissed forgery allegations brought by Anchor toothpaste against Colgate and its officials. Anchor accused Colgate of forging trademark registration documents, but the court found insufficient evidence to support the claim. The court nullified the complaint and summoning order, clearing Colgate of the allegations. The case underscores the need for concrete evidence in legal actions.
The Delhi High Court emphasized that trial courts must have the conviction judgment prepared before declaring an accused guilty. This ruling came after a case where two men were ordered into custody before the judgment was ready. The court directed District and Sessions Judges to ensure proper procedures to safeguard the rights of the accused.
The Delhi court on Monday extended Bharat Rashtra Samithi leader K Kavitha’s judicial custody in the Delhi excise policy case until June 3. Her lawyer argued that since the chargesheet was filed and cognizance not yet taken by the court, she should be released. The Enforcement Directorate alleges a criminal conspiracy involving AAP leaders. bail plea hearing on May 24.
The Supreme Court set to hear a plea challenging new criminal legislation, questioning its constitutionality and potential impacts on fundamental rights. The laws, known as the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and the Bharatiya Sakshya Act, have raised concerns about police powers and violations of citizen rights, leading to a significant judicial review.
The Supreme Court is reviewing the provision in the SC/ST Act that mandates capital punishment for false evidence. The challenge argues it contradicts the “rarest-of-rare” standard for capital punishment. The petitioner highlighted previous rulings, and the court plans to consider reforms in other penal laws. No cases of capital punishment under this provision have been found.
On 7th May: Justice Surya Kant of the Supreme Court praised India’s early recognition of victims’ rights, citing the Code of Criminal Procedure and judicial precedents. He highlighted India’s progressive stance, cautioning against a one-size-fits-all approach to human rights and emphasizing their intrinsic role in Indian culture. The Supreme Court has played a crucial role in expanding fundamental rights in India.
Today (May 3): The Delhi High Court reserved its order on the bail plea of NewsClick’s HR head under the UAPA. The charges allege receipt of funds for pro-China propaganda. Chakravarty’s counsel cited turning approver and requested bail under section 482 of the CrPC. The court awaits the decision amidst the ongoing case scrutiny.