Today (4th April): The Calcutta High Court has accepted Tata Steel’s writ petition challenging the denial of a loan waiver from the Steel Development Fund (SDF), where the loan amount totaled Rs 2,751.17 crore. This follows the Union Ministry of Steel rejecting their appeal, sparking the recent filing and first hearing for this case.
The Supreme Court has directed States and Union Territories to retain their panel lawyers for at least six weeks after a change in government to prevent unnecessary adjournments in court proceedings. The directive aims to ensure the smooth functioning of courts and avoid inconvenience to litigants. This order followed a hearing of a bail plea by an individual accused of cheating in an examination conducted by the Uttarakhand government.
The Rajasthan High Court dismissed a PIL seeking live streaming of court proceedings, citing the availability of video conferencing facilities. The division bench rejected the plea, emphasizing the existing provision of video conferencing. While some other high courts have embraced live streaming, the Rajasthan High Court will continue providing video conferencing facilities.
Friday (on March 22) The special court cancelled the warrant against BJP MP Pragya Singh Thakur in the Malegaon Blast Case due to her ill health and reliance on supportive aid. Her lawyer submitted a medical certificate, leading the court to cancel the warrant. She is mandated to appear in court for further proceedings on March 28. The case originates from the 2008 Malegaon bomb explosions.
The Allahabad High Court reprimanded a GAIL executive for secretly recording proceedings during a tax-related hearing. Justice Sharaf took decisive action, discharging the case and directing reassignment. GAIL’s representatives faced ethical challenges. The case involves tax disputes between GAIL and tax authorities. The court order specified the reassignment of matters for review by a different bench.
