The Madras High Court ruled that a stepson is not entitled to family pension under the Railway Services (Pension) Rules, 1993. The Court held that family pension is a statutory benefit available only to persons falling within the Rules’ definition of “family,” unlike gratuity nominations.
The Bombay High Court observed that Mumbai’s recurring monsoon flooding is not solely the BMC’s responsibility, stating that encroachments, blocked drains and illegal constructions by citizens have worsened the crisis. The Court urged shared accountability, remarking, “We should stop blaming the corporation.”
The Karnataka High Court stayed criminal proceedings against a Coorg homestay owner accused after an employee allegedly raped a 33-year-old American tourist. The Court questioned charges under the repealed Foreigners Act, 1946 and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, while allowing proceedings against the principal accused to continue.
The Madras High Court ruled that advocates have no vested or fundamental right to demand out-of-turn listing of pending cases. Dismissing a lawyer’s plea, the Court held that only genuinely urgent matters may receive priority through established judicial procedures and exceptional listing protocols.
The Delhi High Court ordered restoration of the Cockroach Janta Party’s X account after the Centre withdrew its objection. The government stated the account was blocked during NEET examinations to prevent panic among students and parents, but the circumstances no longer existed after the exams concluded.
The Delhi High Court dismissed a husband’s appeal against his contempt conviction, holding that ongoing settlement negotiations cannot excuse non-compliance with binding court orders. The Court upheld directions concerning his passport and reaffirmed the obligation to fulfil maintenance-related financial responsibilities pending resolution of disputes.
