On April 8, 2025, the Supreme Court of India clarified the roles of the President and Governor regarding State Bills, emphasizing judicial review of presidential actions under Article 201. The Court stated the President must decide on bills within three months and cannot use a pocket veto, demanding clear reasons for withholding assent.
NEW DELHI: Former Chief Justice of India, U.U. Lalit, will be one of the key persons to speak before the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) set up to review the One Nation One Election (ONOE) Bill. Along with him, four other prominent figures will also give their views in a meeting scheduled for February 25.
Supreme Court judge Justice B.V. Nagarathna criticized the overstepping of roles by governors in India and their inactivity, reflecting poorly on the constitutional position of the governor. She emphasized the importance of fraternity and advocated for a focus on federalism, fundamental rights, and principled governance to strengthen Indian constitutionalism. She is set to become the Chief Justice of India in September 2027.
The Delhi excise policy case, initiated in November 2021 to restructure the liquor trade, faced allegations of corruption and irregularities. Key events included the CBI probe, high-profile arrests, and legal battles involving Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The case drew attention for its impact on political and legal proceedings in India.
The Supreme Court of India reaffirmed the abrogation of Article 370, dismissing all review petitions. The ruling validates the central government’s action and solidifies Jammu and Kashmir’s integration into the Indian Union. The decision has far-reaching implications and signifies a crucial development in India’s constitutional and political landscape.
Soli J. Sorabjee, an eminent jurist, advocated the Basic Structure Doctrine to protect federalism and judiciary independence. Justice Surya Kant highlighted Sorabjee’s contributions in a memorial lecture, emphasizing the doctrine’s role in safeguarding fundamental principles. He also discussed the concept of dharma and its importance in ensuring judicial independence and reinforcing human rights.
The Supreme Court is set to hear Arvind Kejriwal’s plea against possible arrest on Monday, April 29th. The plea is related to a defamation case filed by a former DDA vice-chairman. Kejriwal argues that his arrest undermines democracy and accuses the ED of misusing its power for political purposes. The controversy centers on alleged corruption in Delhi’s excise policy.
Today (1st April) The Supreme Court’s nine-judge bench is currently considering the jurisdictional control over the regulation of industrial alcohol by state and Union governments. Arguments have been presented by Senior Advocates Dinesh Dwivedi and Arvind Datar, emphasizing the balance of power between the Union and state governments as defined in the Constitution. The bench aims to conclude hearings by April 9, 2024.
Today (3rd April): The Tamil Nadu government has accused the Central government of withholding Rs. 37,000 crore allocated for flood relief. The state argues that the delay in fund release hinders disaster management efforts and violates fundamental rights. They have filed a plea in the Supreme Court, seeking the allocation of these funds and highlighting the unequal treatment compared to other states.
Retired Supreme Court Justice S. Ravindra Bhat Today highlighted the Supreme Court’s failure to address federalism concerns in the Article 370 judgment. He also emphasized the need for adapting norms to technological advancements. Reflecting on revisiting established norms, he stated it is essential to make the Constitution responsive and relevant in the 21st century.
