The Supreme Court of India dismissed criminal proceedings against HDFC Bank, ruling that a corporation cannot possess mens rea, or criminal intent, needed for liability under the IPC. The court emphasized that the bank officials acted inadvertently in misinterpreting orders, lacking evidence of malicious intent or misappropriation, thus quashing the FIR.
Justice Sanjeev Khanna has been nominated by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud as the next Chief Justice of India, set to assume office on November 10. Known for impactful rulings on constitutional law and human rights, Justice Khanna’s leadership is expected to enhance the Supreme Court’s commitment to justice and individual rights.
![[BREAKING] Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud Writes to Centre & Recommends Justice Sanjiv Khanna As Next CJI](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/image-24-1.png?resize=447%2C367&ssl=1)
Chief Justice DY Chandrachud nominated Justice Sanjiv Khanna as his successor ahead of his retirement on November 11. Justice Khanna, currently the second-most senior judge, has a distinguished legal career since 1983. The nomination follows tradition and awaits Union government approval to ensure a seamless leadership transition in the Supreme Court.
Today, On 23rd September, the Supreme Court criticized the Income Tax Department for pursuing a trivial Rs. 1.5 lakh appeal, dismissing it and urging greater responsibility in litigation. The Court highlighted concerns over frivolous cases burdening the judiciary, with Justice Khanna questioning the costs involved in such unnecessary legal battles.
Today, On 12th July, The Supreme Court declined to hear Ritwik Dutta’s appeal against the Delhi High Court’s decision on his income tax assessment, citing ongoing proceedings. The I-T department alleges that funds from EarthJustice USA were used for unauthorized activities. Additionally, the CBI has registered an FIR against Dutta for alleged FCRA violations.
The Bombay High Court is set to rule on whether the Shirdi temple trust should receive income tax exemptions for anonymous donations. The trust contends that it operates as both a charitable and religious organization, while the Income Tax department argues that its expenditures indicate a predominantly charitable function. The court has reserved its decision.
Today, On 10th July, the Chief Justice criticized late income tax filings, citing support for Xerox and emphasizing trust in the courts for MNCs’ job and revenue creation. The Supreme Court rejected Xerox’s appeal due to a 290-day delay, highlighting the importance of timely tax submissions. The finance ministry faces over 1.5 lakh ongoing tax-related court cases as of July 2023.
The Supreme Court allowed the Income Tax department to reassess Environics Trust’s income, stemming from allegations of orchestrating protests. No final orders will be issued yet. The court directed the NGO to cooperate with the investigation. The department alleged that the trust’s activities hinder Indian projects and receive most income from foreign sources.
Today (29th March): The Congress party faces a tax notice exceeding Rs 1,800 crore after the Delhi High Court rejects its appeals. The notice covers assessment years 2017-18 and 2020-21 and includes penalties and interest charges. The party accuses the BJP of “tax terrorism” and plans to challenge the demands in the Supreme Court, vowing to continue its campaign for the upcoming parliamentary polls.
