Justice Ashutosh Kumar has been appointed as the Acting Chief Justice of the Patna High Court, succeeding Chief Justice KV Chandran. Justice Kumar, who began his legal career in 1991, has an impressive academic background, graduating from St. Stephen’s College and obtaining an LL.B. from Delhi University, becoming a permanent judge in 2016.
The President of India has transferred Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya from Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court to Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court, following a Supreme Court Collegium recommendation. Justice Alok Aradhe is appointed as Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court. Both appointments took effect as of January 14.
The Madhya Pradesh High Court allowed Harda factory owners to object to victim claims made during suo-moto proceedings by the National Green Tribunal (NGT). The court said that the factory owners could raise concerns about the classification and genuineness of victims, as well as the amount and categories of compensation for property loss, injuries, and displacement.
The Karnataka High Court ruled on whether a child born as a result of rape can be adopted without the consent of the accused father. The court clarified that the accused father’s consent is not required for the adoption in such cases. This decision aims to prioritize the welfare of the child and protect the rights of the survivor. It also highlights the importance of justice and dignity for victims.
A plea has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking the admission of Rohingya refugee children in local schools. The petition argues that these children should be allowed access to education as part of their basic rights. It highlights the importance of providing them with opportunities for a better future. The case is currently being reviewed by the court.
The Supreme Court of India, established on January 28, 1950, evolved from historic legal reforms starting with the Regulating Act of 1773. Governed by a collegium system for appointments, it plays a pivotal role in upholding the Constitution’s supremacy. Judges are appointed based on seniority and established eligibility criteria, ensuring judicial integrity.
An Advocate-on-Record (AoR) is a specialized lawyer authorized to represent clients in the Supreme Court of India, handling case filings, drafting petitions, and ensuring compliance with court procedures. To qualify, AoRs must pass a specialized exam after training. Their role is crucial for effective legal representation and maintaining court integrity.
The Supreme Court of India granted bail to Athar Parwez, accused of plotting disturbances during Prime Minister Modi’s visit, citing the prolonged detention without trial as an infringement of personal liberty. The court noted doubts about evidence and emphasized the need for a timely trial, ordering his release under specified conditions.
Today, On 12th December, the Supreme Court ruled that requiring donees in gift deeds to provide lifelong, unpaid services to donors is unconstitutional and constitutes forced labor, violating fundamental rights. This decision emphasizes individual liberty, dismissing a case concerning a 1953 land gift and reinforcing the illegality of coercive agreements.
The Gauhati High Court has instructed the Assam government to respond within four weeks to a petition challenging the constitutionality of the Assam Compulsory Registration of Muslim Marriages and Divorces Act, 2024. The petitioner seeks the restoration of the repealed 1935 Act, claiming the new law violates constitutional rights and negatively impacts the Muslim community’s marriage practices.