Today, On 13rd February, The Supreme Court denied bail to the accused in the 2020 Bengaluru riots case, emphasizing the seriousness of the charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The court directed the Karnataka government to establish additional special UAPA courts to expedite trials and reduce judicial backlog. This move aims to ensure swift justice and address delays in handling cases related to public safety and national security.
Today, On 4th January, The Supreme Court rejected Karnataka’s plea to classify necrophilia as rape under Section 375 of the IPC. Justices Sudhanshu Dhulia and Ahsanuddin Amanullah stated that making such legal changes is the responsibility of Parliament. The Bench emphasized that courts cannot expand the definition of rape beyond the existing legal framework. Any modification to the law must come through legislative action.
The Calcutta High Court ordered compensation for the death of a pregnant woman who died after receiving contaminated saline. The court stated that the saline was responsible for her tragic death. The state government has now handed over the investigation to the CID to look into the matter. The court’s decision emphasizes accountability and justice for the victim’s family.
Today, On 15th January, The Karnataka High Court heard final arguments on a petition filed by BS Yediyurappa seeking to quash the FIR against him under the POCSO Act. The FIR alleges his involvement in the sexual assault of a minor girl. The state has argued that Yediyurappa must face trial in the matter. The court’s decision on the petition is awaited.
The Supreme Court has granted Karnataka eight more weeks to resolve a religious dispute at the Dattatreya Peeta shrine, crucial for both Hindus and Muslims. This is the state’s final chance to present an updated report following the contentious ruling allowing only a Muslim priest to perform rituals, which both communities oppose.
The Karnataka government plans to challenge the High Court’s decision to grant bail to actor Darshan in the Renukaswamy murder case. Senior advocates are preparing to file a Special Leave Petition (SLP) in the Supreme Court within three days, seeking to overturn the bail order. This move comes in light of concerns over the court’s ruling and aims to get the decision reviewed at the highest judicial forum.
The Supreme Court affirmed its authority to annul proceedings related to the investigation of D.K. Shivakumar’s alleged disproportionate assets case, contested by the CBI and BJP leader Basanagouda Patil Yatnal. The court will reassess the case in January 2025, following state government withdrawals of consent for the investigation.
Today, On 10th December, The Supreme Court urged the Centre and Karnataka to resolve drought aid issues, particularly the release of Rs.18,171 crore from the National Disaster Response Fund, with only Rs.3,819 crore granted so far. Karnataka’s plea claims violations of residents’ rights and calls for assistance due to severe drought affecting 223 taluks. Further hearings are scheduled for January.
The Supreme Court criticized the Karnataka government’s repeated oversights in legal representation during a criminal case. Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan expressed frustration over inaccurate instructions and indicated they may summon the Chief Secretary if proper assistance is not provided. The case pertains to interim bail amidst charges of organized crime.