Retired Supreme Court judge Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul Today (Aug 24) took exception to the recent memorandum issued by the Union Finance Ministry which advised government and its entities or agencies not to resort to arbitration in disputes involving a sum of more than Rs 10 crores.
The Supreme Court granted the benefits of 6th Central Pay Commission including pensionary benefits to the persons who for over three decades managed the Saving Scheme Deposits (SSD) Fund of the Special Frontier Force (SFF). “We are of the opinion that the denial of pensionary benefits to the appellants is not tenable or justifiable in the eyes of law as the same is arbitrary and violates the fundamental rights as guaranteed by Articles 14 and 16 of the Constitution of India,” the Court said.
Today, On 14th August, The Supreme Court criticized the Gujarat government for appealing a High Court ruling favoring a sweeper, questioning the decision and demanding details about the officials involved. This stern stance emphasizes adherence to judicial rulings impacting lower-level employees’ livelihoods, stressing responsible government decision-making. Additionally, it warns against unnecessary delays or challenges, reinforcing the importance of justice and efficiency in governance.
Today, On 13th July, The Supreme Court questioned the retroactive application of Section 479 of the BNSS, allowing bail for first-time undertrials. This provision, addressing prison overcrowding, provides a more lenient option for release after serving one-third of the maximum sentence. The Court instructed the Central government to clarify this and emphasized the urgency of addressing prison conditions nationwide.
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.
Today, On 7th August, the Supreme Court reprimanded the Maharashtra government for prioritizing freebies over compensating citizens whose properties were acquired. The Ladli Behna scheme was specifically mentioned. The court warned against disregarding its orders and criticized the government for not submitting an affidavit regarding compensation. Failure to do so could result in the chief secretary appearing in person.
The Allahabad High Court sought guidelines for changing names after sex reassignment surgery, following a transman’s request to update his details in school records. The court directed the State to investigate existing regulations and ordered the State Board to review and decide on the application within four weeks.
The government plans to limit the Waqf Board’s authority in declaring properties as ‘waqf assets’ and taking control over them. This legislation, which aims to enhance transparency and accountability, is part of broader efforts to address concerns about the arbitrary powers of the Waqf Boards. The proposed changes will require mandatory verification of properties and involve district magistrates in monitoring waqf properties.
Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya’s statement that “Party organisation is bigger than the government” has sparked controversy and led to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) being filed On Aug 1st in the Allahabad High Court. The petitioner argues that the remark undermines the government’s dignity and raises concerns about integrity. The PIL also raises objections to Maurya’s criminal history.
There are 109 women serving as judges in India’s higher judiciary, marking progress towards gender equality. Efforts to increase this number must continue to create a supportive environment for women in the legal profession. The government’s commitment to transparency in judicial appointments reflects a positive step toward greater inclusivity.