Justice Sanjiv Khanna is set to become the 51st Chief Justice of India, emphasizing personal liberty and effective judicial processes. He has a noteworthy ability to cross-examine from memory and began his legal journey at Tis Hazari Court. His controversial elevation to the Supreme Court in 2019 highlights his commitment to a robust legal career.
Today, On 25th October, The Supreme Court postponed a hearing on a PIL opposing ‘VIP entry charges’ in Indian temples, emphasizing a detailed review of the fees’ effects on worship access. The petition claims these charges violate equality and dignity rights, urging equal treatment for all devotees regardless of financial status and the need for standardized temple access procedures.
Kartar Singh Tanwar, a former AAP MLA, has challenged his disqualification from the Delhi Assembly in the High Court, citing lack of opportunity for defense. He claims health issues prevented his participation in proceedings initiated by MLA Dilip Pandey, who accused him of defecting to the BJP. The case will be heard on December 9.
Yesterday, On 1st October, The Madras High Court has ordered Tamil Nadu police to permit the RSS route march scheduled for October 6, emphasizing adherence to existing guidelines governing public gatherings. This ruling addresses petitions from RSS leaders challenging the police’s refusal of permission, reinforcing the balance between constitutional rights and state authority in managing public events.
The Supreme Court today(26th Sept) confirmed that the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, applies to all women in India, safeguarding their constitutional rights. The ruling stemmed from a case concerning maintenance, emphasizing that modifications under Section 25 are only applicable for changes post-initial orders. Previous appeals were dismissed, allowing for future applications under the Act.
Former Union Law Minister Ashwani Kumar praises the Supreme Court’s stance against “bulldozer justice,” advocating for guidelines to prevent such practices. He highlights the need for legal due process in dispensing justice and emphasizes the fundamental rights of shelter and dignity. The Court’s intervention is seen as critical in reinforcing constitutional values and curbing punitive abuse of demolitions.
The government has no plans to introduce a law for electoral bonds in political funding, nor is there a proposal to fund political parties through the Election Commission. The Law Minister confirmed this and stated that there are no ongoing considerations for implementing a political party funding system via the Election Commission. Despite the Supreme Court annulling the electoral bonds scheme, the government is not currently planning legislative action or alternative funding mechanisms through the Election Commission.
The Supreme Court today has sought a response from the Kerala government regarding the requirement for the Melshanthi (high priest) position at the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple to be filled by a Malayala Brahmin. This requirement is being challenged as a violation of constitutional rights, arguing that the selection should not be restricted to a specific community. The case is scheduled for further hearing on October 25.
The Supreme Court is set to hear petitions today challenging the Uttar Pradesh government’s order for shopkeepers along the Kanwar Yatra route to display their names. Trinamool MP Mahua Moitra argues that the directive violates constitutional rights. The move has sparked criticism and is expected to be discussed in Parliament.
A woman employee of the West Bengal Raj Bhawan has moved the Supreme Court over alleged sexual harassment by Governor CV Ananda Bose, challenging the immunity granted to the Governor under Article 361. The plea questions the victim being left without recourse and seeks thorough investigation by the West Bengal police, as well as guidelines on the Governor’s immunity.