Senior advocate KK Venugopal pointed out that in the early years of Independent India, the judiciary was so independent that Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru had strong concerns about its actions. Venugopal’s comments highlight how the judiciary was committed to staying free from political pressure. This tradition still shapes India’s legal system, ensuring a clear separation of powers and protecting the rule of law.
The Supreme Court ruled that a woman involved in an extra-marital affair cannot be charged under Section 498A IPC for cruelty, as she does not qualify as a “relative.” The bench, led by Justices Gavai and Viswanathan, quashed a criminal case against a woman based on allegations from the complainant-wife.
![[Row Over OBC List] "Reservation Cannot Be On The Basis Of Religion": Apex Court During the Hearing Of West Bengal Plea Against HC Judgement Quashing OBC Classification Of 77 Communities](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/image-14.jpeg?resize=447%2C367&ssl=1)
The Supreme Court On December 9 addressed West Bengal’s petition against the Calcutta High Court’s annulment of OBC classification for 77 communities, mainly Muslim. Justice Gavai emphasized reservations cannot be religion-based. While Sibal defended the classification as socially rooted, Patwalia critiqued its implementation. The Court scheduled further hearings for January 2025.
Supreme Court Judge Justice BR Gavai on Friday (Dec 6) hailed eminent jurist Fali Nariman’s contribution to law, highlighting the tough task the generation of those jurists faced in practicing law and building precedents after Constitution was enacted. “His generation had the responsibility of building building precedents rather than relying on them”: Justice Gavai said.
Yesterday, On 29th September, Justice BR Gavai advocated for a new Kolhapur Bench of the Bombay High Court to enhance legal access for remote residents. Speaking at a groundbreaking for the Advocate Academy in Taloja, he underscored the role of lawyers in addressing economic disparities and promoting social justice in India.
The Supreme Court fined a Gujarat police officer Rs 25,000 and accepted the judicial magistrate’s unconditional apology in a contempt case involving a wrongful arrest and remand in violation of a bail order. The court criticized the officials’ actions and emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law. Despite pleas for leniency, the court maintained a firm stance.
Supreme Court Justice BR Gavai emphasized the persisting economic and social inequality in India despite political equality. He highlighted Dr. BR Ambedkar’s concerns and urged for addressing these disparities to prevent the democratic system from collapsing. Additionally, he praised technological advancements in the judiciary, aiming to enhance accessibility and speed of justice.
The Supreme Court today issued a warning to the Maharashtra Government, threatening to halt welfare schemes if compensation is not paid to landowners. The court criticized the state’s budgetary allocation for schemes, demanding compensation for illegally taken land. The Chief Secretary may be summoned if steps are not taken by August 28. The court also considered a plea for regulation of political party election manifestos.
The Supreme Court of India emphasized caution in relying solely on AI for translating legal documents, highlighting potential errors. Despite challenges, AI has been integral in enhancing access to justice, with initiatives like AI-driven transcription and translations. The upcoming Supreme Court Hackathon underlines the judiciary’s commitment to leveraging technology for improved judicial processes.
Supreme Court Justice BR Gavai praised the Kesavananda Bharati judgment for advancing social and economic justice during the SN Bhuyan centenary lecture. He highlighted the evolution of fundamental rights and the strides made in ensuring social and economic justice, particularly for women and marginalized communities. The event honored SN Bhuyan, father of current Supreme Court judge Justice Ujjal Bhuyan.