The Uttarakhand High Court Today (Feb 12) sent notices to the Central and State governments regarding multiple petitions challenging the recently implemented Uniform Civil Code (UCC). Petitioners argue that the UCC violates fundamental rights under the Constitution, interferes with religious practices, and imposes unconstitutional restrictions on marriage and live-in relationships. The court has combined similar petitions and will hear the matter after six weeks.
Today, On 10th February, The Supreme Court criticized authorities for focusing on cycle tracks while people in slums struggle to get clean water. The court questioned the priorities of the government, saying basic needs should come first. It stressed that access to clean water is a fundamental right. The issue highlights the gap between development plans and real-life problems.
Former Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi emphasized the significance of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) as a vital step toward national integration. He stated that implementing the UCC does not conflict with Articles 25 and 26 of the Constitution, which safeguard the right to religion. According to Gogoi, the UCC can foster unity while respecting religious freedoms. This view supports the Constitution’s aim of promoting equality and unity among different communities.
The Delhi High Court will consider whether Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) reports can be disclosed publicly before being presented in the Assembly. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has called for a special Assembly session to table these reports ahead of the upcoming Delhi elections. The matter holds significance as it could influence public opinion during the election period. The court’s decision is awaited on this crucial issue.
The Bombay High Court ruled that a minor’s passport application cannot be denied due to her parents’ divorce and the father’s refusal to provide a No Objection Certificate. The court stated that the right to travel abroad is a fundamental right, emphasizing the need for fair processes in such cases.
The Jammu and Kashmir High Court recognized that the Bar Council of India guidelines do not permit female advocates to appear in court with their faces covered. This was highlighted after a claimant, Advocate Syed Ainain Qadri, refused to remove her covering. Ultimately, the Court dismissed the related case on December 13.
The Karnataka High Court affirmed a nurse’s right to 120 days of Child Care Leave, emphasizing the fundamental rights of both mothers and infants to breastfeeding under Article 21 of the Constitution. The ruling dismissed challenges from NIMHANS, highlighting the importance of these rights during children’s formative years and the organization’s duty as a model employer.
On Monday(28th Oct), Justice KS Puttaswamy, a pivotal figure in India’s legal history, passed away at 98. He challenged the Aadhaar scheme’s constitutionality in 2012, leading to a landmark Supreme Court ruling recognizing privacy as a fundamental right. His contributions shaped the discourse on privacy, surveillance, and data protection in India.
Despite Supreme Court criticism, stubble burning persists in Punjab and Haryana, contributing to severe air pollution. The Court condemned these states for inadequate actions and suggested fines are not deterring farmers. Haryana offers Rs. 1,000 per acre to prevent burning while farmers seek lasting solutions to this environmental issue.