The Supreme Court of India directed all States and Union Territories to strictly implement installation of vehicle location tracking devices and panic buttons in public transport vehicles, with Justices JB Pardiwala and KV Viswanathan stressing passenger safety, especially for women, senior citizens and children.
The legal dispute over late businessman Sunjay Kapur’s estate intensified after Rani Kapur accused Priya Kapur of bypassing court-monitored mediation to gain control of disputed family assets before the Supreme Court Bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and Ujjal Bhuyan.
The Supreme Court criticised Uttar Pradesh authorities for failing to act on illegal constructions, calling the case a national “eye-opener.” It ordered strict action, including demolition of unauthorised setbacks, warning officials against ignoring the rule of law.
The Supreme Court has directed the Centre to submit a comprehensive report on illegal constructions and encroachments along the banks and floodplains of the Ganga. The Court also sought details of steps taken to remove encroachments and protect the river ecosystem.
The Supreme Court directed a man’s employer to deduct Rs 25,000 monthly from his salary after he repeatedly refused to pay maintenance to his estranged wife. The Court said the amount must be transferred directly to the wife’s bank account to ensure support for her and their minor daughter.
The Oudh Bar Association has written to CJI Surya Kant seeking expunction of strong Supreme Court remarks against an Allahabad High Court judge. The controversy arose after the top court set aside a bail order in a dowry death case, calling it “one of the most shocking and disappointing” orders.
The Supreme Court expressed concern over online platform Shaadi.com after learning that mediation attempts had repeatedly failed between the estranged couple. Justice JB Pardiwala remarked, “Shaadi.com? You met on Shaadi.com?” after hearing husband had not seen his wife.
The Supreme Court granted bail to Amit Mehra, holding that an undertrial cannot be kept in custody indefinitely, noting he spent over eight months in judicial custody without trial commencement. Justices J.B. Pardiwala and Alok Aradhe passed the order.
Today, On 18th December, Supreme Court urged continued cooperation between the Kerala Governor and the State Government while concluding the Vice-Chancellor appointment row, as Justice JB Pardiwala expressed hope that dialogue would prevail, perhaps over a cup of coffee, in public interest.
The Supreme Court has warned the Kerala Government and the Governor that it will directly appoint Vice-Chancellors if their ongoing dispute continues. The Court stressed that only the “most meritorious” candidates must be selected without further delay.
