Justice S. Ravindra Bhat’s retirement on October 20 allowed Justice A.S. Oka to join the Supreme Court Collegium, now led by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna. This reorganization follows the former Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud’s retirement. The collegium plays a vital role in judicial appointments, impacting transparency and autonomy in the Indian judiciary.
Justice Surya Kant criticized a 1981 Supreme Court reference questioning the Chief Justice’s authority regarding Aligarh Muslim University’s minority status, labeling it “bad in law.” He emphasized judicial integrity, asserting that a two-judge bench cannot challenge larger bench rulings, and highlighted the Chief Justice’s role in maintaining judicial clarity and authority within the system.
The Supreme Court Today (Oct 18) observed that broad police powers regarding arrest and handcuffing of accused under the new criminal laws may be justified in serious criminal cases. Bench was hearing a petition challenging provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which replaced the Code of Criminal Procedure. Court expressed his doubts with the challenge to the constitutional validity of the handcuffing provision in particular.
Today, On 15th September, Justice Surya Kant emphasized the importance of the Permanent Court of Arbitration for fostering unity and trust amid global divisions during the two-day Conference on International Arbitration and the Rule of Law. He highlighted the court’s continued relevance and India’s commitment to promoting international commercial arbitration. Other speakers discussed the growing prominence of international arbitration and India’s appeal as a top choice for arbitration.
The Supreme Court today granted bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, citing “prolonged incarceration constitutes an unjust deprivation of liberty.” His arrest by the CBI in the liquor excise policy case led to restrictions, despite being granted bail in a separate case. The court criticized keeping him in custody without a trial as a “travesty of justice.”
On Sunday(1st September), In his address at the ‘National Conference of the District Judiciary’ Justice Surya Kant highlighted that justice in India is a continuous journey requiring unwavering dedication from all judicial stakeholders. He reaffirmed the Supreme Court’s commitment to delivering justice to the most remote and marginalized communities.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Manoj Kumar Meena emphasized in an affidavit that the brutal assault on AAP Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal at the Chief Minister’s residence had a profound impact on the public. The accused, a close aide to the Chief Minister, is seeking bail, but the police argue that this would jeopardize the safety of the victim and her family.
On Tuesday(20th August), the Supreme Court of India issued a contempt notice to Jharkhand Chief Secretary L Khiangte and other officials for failing to comply with orders to compensate 22 individuals denied Class-IV appointments despite selection in 1992.
Supreme Court Justice Surya Kant highlighted the pivotal role of technology in modernizing the judicial system during the National Conference on the Landscape of Technology in Courts in India. He emphasized how technology bridges the gap between rural and urban areas, providing efficient and speedy justice. The event showcased innovative technological practices and emphasized the transformative impact of technology and artificial intelligence on the judiciary.
Today, On 7th August, The bail hearing for Bibhav Kumar in the Swati Maliwal assault case has been adjourned by the Supreme Court to August 27, extending his period of uncertainty. The delay has drawn significant attention, with Kumar remaining in jail for an additional 20 days. The previous hearing witnessed pointed remarks and criticisms from the Supreme Court bench.
