The Madras High Court permitted the Tamil Nadu government to withdraw appeals related to the construction of a new Secretariat building. The appeals were against a previous order cancelling a government directive regarding irregularities. The court dismissed the appeals as withdrawn, affirming the government’s right to withdraw legal proceedings. The impleading petitions were also dismissed as unnecessary.
The Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court decided to postpone the Akola West Assembly by-election due to the remaining term of the elected member being less than a year. This decision led to the Election Commission of India withholding the notification for the by-election. The court’s interpretation of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, was central to the ruling.
The Calcutta High Court Today acknowledged the cultural significance of rallies and protests in Bengal, granting permission to state government employees for a rally in Howrah to voice demands, including a pay hike. While comparing rallies to traditional delicacies, the court set conditions for the rally, emphasizing the need for organizers to consider public inconvenience. “Mishti Doi, Aloo Posto, Luchi=Protests and Rallies, Both Part of Bengali Culture”
The Allahabad High Court has instructed the Uttar Pradesh government to study and propose the implementation of the ‘open jail’ model from states like Rajasthan and Maharashtra by March 29, 2024. This initiative aims to create a more rehabilitative environment for prisoners and to address the impacts of imprisonment on families and society as a whole.
A special court in Karnataka has announced that 27 kg of gold and diamond jewelry, vital evidence in the disproportionate assets case involving former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa, will be handed over to the Tamil Nadu government on March 6 and 7. The move aims to fulfill the Rs 100 crore fine imposed on her, with directives for disposal and trial expenses also issued.
The Karnataka High Court has initiated a criminal contempt case against lawyer M. Veerabhadraiah for disruptive behavior, including throwing files, shouting at the judge, and refusing to argue the case on its merits. The court emphasized the importance of maintaining decorum and respect in the courtroom. The incident occurred during proceedings related to the case titled Sri Annadurai vs. GOI and Ors.
The Supreme Court of India expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s failure to provide counseling to students involved in a distressing school incident. Justices Oka and Bhuyan highlighted the state’s negligence in following court directives and underscored the urgency of the situation. The case underscores the need for a proactive approach in safeguarding children’s well-being in schools.
The Punjab and Haryana High Court has demanded explanations from the state governments on their treatment protocols for inmates with Hepatitis C, following a shortage of medical staff in jails. The inquiry was prompted by a news report revealing a high percentage of prisoners with Hepatitis C. The court emphasized the gravity of the situation and instructed both states to file detailed affidavits by January 25.