On Monday(18th Nov), the Supreme Court heard a plea seeking the enforcement of measures to curb air pollution in Delhi and surrounding areas. A bench comprising Justices Abhay S. Oka and Augustine George Masih expressed serious concerns over delays in implementing the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
Justice Oka questioned the Delhi counsel, stating, “Why was the GRAP mechanism not invoked? How can you risk delaying such critical measures?” In response to the counsel’s clarification that stage 4 of GRAP was now in effect, the bench emphasized that the Delhi government must not lower it without court approval, even if the Air Quality Index (AQI) improves below 300. The bench remarked, “We are making it clear that you will not go below stage 4 without our permission.”
Today, On 4th November, the Supreme Court reprimanded the Delhi government and police for ineffective enforcement of the firecracker ban amid deteriorating air quality following Diwali. The court demanded immediate details on implemented measures and future plans, highlighting the need for stringent action to address pollution and ensure public safety during festivals.
Today, On 6th August, Justice Abhay Oka revealed challenges faced as a High Court judge due to Supreme Court directives for expedited case resolution. He criticized such orders, emphasizing High Court independence. This came to light during a case involving a businessman accused in the Delhi Excise Policy case. Justice Oka’s opposition led to the dismissal of the petition.
The Supreme Court today granted bail to the accused in the Kamlesh Tiwari murder case, noting limited involvement and lack of prior antecedents. The decision considered lengthy detention, witness testimony, and bail for other co-accused, diverging from the High Court’s denial based on the murder’s brutality and communal aspects. The case title is Syed Asim Ali v. The State of Uttar Pradesh.
Today, On 12th July, The Supreme Court emphasized the importance of avoiding mechanical stays on bail orders and highlighted the need for substantial justifications before such actions. Justices Oka and Masih stressed the significance of upholding individual freedoms within the judicial process. They asserted that staying bail orders should only occur in rare and exceptional circumstances, such as those involving terrorism.
Today, On 24th June, The Supreme Court issued contempt notices to Delhi Development Authority (DDA) officials for unauthorized tree cutting, stressing the need to protect the environment. The court plans a thorough investigation and a large tree plantation initiative in Delhi. Earlier, a contempt notice was issued to the DDA Vice-Chairman for extensive tree cutting. Next hearing scheduled for June 26.
The appellant contested the decision made by the Allahabad High Court, which dismissed a petition filed under Section 482 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) aimed at nullifying the prosecution for violations under Sections 272 and 273 of the IPC. In 2010, the Uttar Pradesh State authorized authorities to commence prosecutions under these IPC provisions […]
The Supreme Court’s directive to the Uttar Pradesh Government ensures timely payment to state-appointed advocates, aiming to prevent legal interventions for outstanding fees. Justices emphasized the need to discourage litigation for dues and reduce interest penalties. The government must settle payments within six weeks to avoid additional charges. The directive came in response to concerns about lawyer compensation.
