Justice N. Kotiswar Singh said India is not a religious state and highlighted the historical context of the term “Hindu.” He noted the Constitution embraces all faiths, describing “Hindu” as a geographical identifier linked to people beyond Indus.
The Karnataka High Court held that religious institutions can claim compensation for a Mathadipati’s death in accidents. Expanding dependency scope, the court recognised institutions reliant on spiritual heads, affirming their role in administration and continuity beyond personal income considerations.
The Supreme Court stayed criminal proceedings against a priest booked over remarks on religion, issuing notice to Uttar Pradesh. The bench held trial shall remain stayed while examining the plea challenging FIR and allegations of hurting religious sentiments.
