The Supreme Court issued bailable warrants against advocate Mukut Nath Verma for filing a “scandalous and frivolous” complaint against SCBA Election Committee members and judges. The Court warned such defamatory actions cannot go unchecked and prima facie constitute criminal contempt.
The Supreme Court reviewed a petition from former Punjab DSP Gursher Singh Sandhu concerning the controversial jail interview of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. Sandhu argued he was unfairly targeted despite not being implicated in the FIR. The Court dismissed his petition, allowing him to seek relief at the High Court, where investigations revealed security failures leading to multiple suspensions.
The Supreme Court ordered a fresh recount of votes for Junior Executive Members in the SCBA elections to resolve doubts following allegations of irregularities. Despite prior recounts affirming Vikas Singh’s presidency, the Court aimed for transparency and assurance to members, while reprimanding candidate Dr. Aggarwala for frivolous accusations against the election committee.
Justice Viswanathan commended CJI Gavai’s humility and leadership during a ceremony honoring him as the 52nd Chief Justice of India. He recounted a touching farewell gesture towards retiring Justice Bela M Trivedi, emphasizing Gavai’s inspirational journey from humble origins to the highest judicial office, embodying dedication and hard work.
Justice KV Viswanathan of the Supreme Court dissented, stating that courts lack the authority to modify arbitral awards under Sections 34 and 37 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act. He emphasized that Article 142 cannot supplant substantive law, opposing the majority view that allowed for limited modifications, warning of potential complications in international enforcement.
Justice KV Viswanathan highlighted the significance of the Basic Structure Doctrine at the launch of Justice Rohinton Nariman’s book. He asserted its protection of the Constitution’s core values, emphasizing that critics have failed to provide compelling counterarguments. The Kesavananda Bharati case established limits on Parliament’s amending power, safeguarding democratic principles.
NEW DELHI: Today, 4th Feb: The Supreme Court of India has clarified that High Courts can continue hearing petitions challenging the amendments made to the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). This decision was made by a Bench comprising Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna, Justice PV Sanjay Kumar, and Justice KV Viswanathan.