Today, On 14th November, the Supreme Court requested a response from the Uttar Pradesh government regarding a petition by choreographer Remo D’Souza, who seeks to quash a 2016 cheating case against him. The case, linked to a failed investment promise, highlights critical legal issues that may impact future entertainment industry regulations.
The Supreme Court temporarily stayed the investigation into an FIR against a man who called Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge “ayogya” (incompetent). This follows a challenge to the Karnataka High Court’s ruling, which upheld charges under specific IPC sections for inciting violence and promoting enmity, while dismissing those under the SC/ST Act.
Today, On 18th October, the Delhi High Court sought the Delhi government’s response to Brij Bhushan’s request for an early hearing to quash sexual harassment charges against him. Singh argued that the ongoing trial’s progression could cause him significant distress. The case is set for further hearing on December 16.
Today, On 17th October, Senior Advocate Karuna Nundy argued in the Supreme Court for the criminalization of marital rape, challenging the validity of IPC Section 375’s exception. The Central government opposes this change, citing existing protections and concerns over marital dynamics. A crucial hearing will occur on October 22, with significant legal implications.
The Supreme Court of India Today (Oct 17) is considering several petitions that seek to criminalize marital rape, which is currently exempt from prosecution under Indian law if it occurs between spouses. The case is being heard by a bench led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud, along with Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra. Senior Advocate Karuna Nundy appeared before the court, representing civil appeals. During the proceedings, the CJI asked Nundy, “Are you appearing before us in the appeal against the Delhi High Court verdict?” Nundy confirmed, “Yes, I am appearing.” The CJI noted, “It is a constitutional question. There are two judgments before us, and we need to make a decision.”
In a significant ruling, the Kerala High Court held that engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child constitutes sexual harassment of a minor. Justice A. Badharudeen made this observation while hearing a plea from a man seeking to quash charges against him under various sections of the IPC, the POCSO Act, and the Juvenile Justice Act. The court emphasized that such behavior amounts to sexual harassment, reinforcing the need for stringent action to protect minors from exposure to sexual acts.
The Allahabad High Court upheld a decision dismissing a man’s plea related to a dowry death case involving his live-in partner, confirming that proof of cohabitation as husband and wife suffices for legal accountability. The man’s arguments were found unmeritorious, reinforcing the trial court’s conclusion regarding the applicability of IPC provisions.
Today, On 3rd October, the Centre argued against decriminalizing marital rape, asserting that existing laws protect married women’s consent. The Union Home Ministry emphasized that marital violations differ from other cases and suggested that criminalization is a societal issue requiring broader consultation. Current laws already address consent violations within marriage, the Centre stated.
Today, On 3rd October, the Supreme Court sentenced former MLA Munna Shukla and Mantu Tiwari to life imprisonment for their involvement in the 1998 murder of Bihar minister Brij Bihari Prasad. The court partially overturned a 2014 acquittal of other accused, citing insufficient evidence for their involvement while reinstating convictions for the two offenders.
The Karnataka High Court ruled that chanting “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” does not amount to hate speech. Justice M. Nagaprasanna dismissed charges against five individuals accused of promoting enmity, asserting that such slogans do not incite division. The FIR was deemed a retaliatory response lacking the essential elements for prosecution under Section 153A of the IPC.
