NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday clarified that farm fires in Punjab are not the only reason behind Delhi’s air pollution problem during winter. While these farm fires do contribute to the city’s air quality issues, the Court directed the Punjab government to work with Haryana and Uttar Pradesh to find better ways of managing agricultural waste.
Today, On 7th January, The Supreme Court is hearing the case of Atul Subhash, a 34-year-old who died by suicide in December. Atul had accused Nikita Singhania and her family of harassment through false cases, causing immense pressure on him and his parents. During the hearing, Nikita’s lawyer responded to questions about the whereabouts of Atul’s son. The case continues to gather significant public and legal attention.
The Supreme Court on Monday (6th Jan) declined to hear a petition challenging Ashwani Kumar’s appointment as Administrator of the Delhi Waqf Board. The petitioner argues that Kumar unlawfully occupies the position post the Board’s term expiration in August 2023, and claims conflicts of interest exist due to his previous demolition recommendations of historical Waqf properties.
The Supreme Court will hear a contempt plea on Monday regarding the alleged non-compliance with its orders concerning farmer leader Dallewal. Earlier, the court criticized the Punjab government and some farmer leaders for making irresponsible media statements about efforts to end Dallewal’s indefinite hunger strike.
A Punjab social activist’s petition seeks Supreme Court intervention to lift restrictions on farmers’ protests blocking national highways, including the Shambhu border. The blockade poses national security risks and hinders emergency services. Farmers demand legalization of Minimum Support Price. The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear the case, highlighting ongoing tensions.
The Supreme Court of India on Thursday (6th Dec) set aside a National Green Tribunal order that fined M/s Govardhan Mines and Minerals Rs 3 crore for illegal stone mining in Haryana. The Chief Justice noted that the NGT did not adequately consider the mining company’s arguments, which were based on alleged inaccuracies in the committee’s report.
The Supreme Court On Thursday (5th Dec) criticized Delhi Chief Secretary Dharmendra for failing to ensure full compensation for construction workers amid air quality measures. Justices questioned delays in payments despite previous directives and demanded immediate resolution. The government was directed to inform unregistered workers about their rights and enhance registration efforts in the ongoing pollution crisis response.
The Supreme Court mandated states to expedite approvals for Unitech’s stalled housing projects to relieve homebuyers. Deadlines have been set for clearances, allowing construction to resume. Despite a new board’s establishment in 2020, progress has been minimal, leaving around 10,000 homebuyers awaiting possession and facing financial strain.
The Supreme Court, led by Justices Oka and Masih, today (14th Nov) scrutinized the Delhi government’s lack of action amid the city’s alarming air pollution levels, recently the worst globally. Concerns were raised regarding firecracker ban enforcement and stubble burning from neighboring states. A decision on a permanent firecracker ban is anticipated by November 25.
