The Bombay High Court criticized a trial court’s death sentence in a multi-murder case, finding its reasoning, which cited the Mahabharata, “strange” and unwarranted. The High Court emphasized the need for individualized assessments in trials, ultimately commuting the death penalty to life imprisonment for some convicts while acquitting one due to lack of evidence.
The Supreme Court upheld the premature retirement of Uttar Pradesh judge Shobh Nath Singh due to a poor service record, emphasizing the high ethical standards required for judicial officers. The Court dismissed Singh’s appeal, reinforcing that judges must demonstrate integrity and accountability, reflecting the judiciary’s commitment to maintaining rigorous conduct.
Today, On 11th November, Justice Sanjiv Khanna will be sworn in as the 51st Chief Justice of India on November 11, 2024, succeeding Justice D.Y. Chandrachud. His term lasts until May 13, 2025. Khanna is recognized for significant rulings and aims to improve justice delivery while continuing a family legacy in India’s judiciary.
Kapil Sibal, President of the Supreme Court Bar Association, delivered a poignant farewell to retiring Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, emphasizing his significant contributions and legacy surpassing that of his father. Sibal praised Chandrachud’s commitment to justice, equality, and inclusivity, marking his tenure as impactful and progressive within India’s judiciary.
At a farewell event for Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Attorney General R. Venkatramani praised his scholarly qualities, commitment to justice, and impactful tenure. Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal highlighted Chandrachud’s openness to critical issues, emphasizing that his legacy would endure due to his thoughtful and inclusive approaches to leadership.
Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud discussed his bail philosophy, emphasizing timely justice and individual rights. Over his two-year tenure, the Supreme Court received 21,000 bail applications and disposed of 21,358 cases, addressing delays in the judicial process. He urged trust in judicial integrity amidst recent controversies. Chandrachud’s tenure ends on November 10.
Today, On 5th November, the Supreme Court mandated equal salaries and pensions for all High Court judges, emphasizing the need for uniformity to maintain equity within the judiciary. The Court addressed disparities affecting judges, particularly in Patna, while reinforcing the constitutional principle of non-discrimination in judicial remuneration to uphold independence and public trust.
Today, On 5th November, Justice B.V. Nagarathna criticized Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud for his remarks about former judges, emphasizing that the Supreme Court’s institution transcends individual judges. She argued past judges should not be criticized for differing viewpoints, as their rulings aligned with the historical context of their times. Future judges should avoid unjust criticisms.
Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, retiring on November 10, clarified that judicial independence does not mean always opposing the government. He criticized pressure groups that demand favorable rulings, emphasizing that true independence requires judges to make unbiased decisions based on law and constitution, resisting manipulation in today’s media-driven society.
The Delhi Judicial Service Association (DJSA) condemned recent violent attacks by lawyers on a District Judge in Ghaziabad, urging the Chief Justice of India to ensure judicial safety and independence. They emphasized the need for a respectful environment, warning that such behavior undermines public trust in the legal system and the principles of justice.
