The Delhi High Court summoned the Health Minister and Secretary due to delays in enacting legislation for clinical establishments. This came after an email revealed the health minister’s exclusion from discussions. The court expressed regret and set a date for their appearance. The petition, filed in 2018, highlighted the operation of unauthorized laboratories in the capital.
Former Supreme Court Justice KM Joseph emphasized that the Indian Constitution inherently embraces secular values, regardless of the explicit mention of ‘secularism’ in the preamble. He highlighted that the removal of the word “secular” would not diminish the equality guaranteed under relevant articles. Justice Joseph underlined the significance of secularism as a basic feature of the Constitution.
The Punjab and Haryana High Court Bar Association has declared a day of protest in response to a farmer’s death during the ‘Dilli Chalo’ march. Meanwhile, Haryana’s Advocate General has instructed law officers to attend court, opposing the bar association’s decision. The deceased farmer’s death has sparked allegations of police involvement, prompting a request for a judicial inquiry.
The Supreme Court has requested the state of Tamil Nadu to clarify the infractions committed by the Vedanta copper smelter facility in Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, to substantiate its closure. The case, dating back to 2018, revolves around allegations of severe pollution and health issues. The arguments are set to continue on February 29.
The Delhi High Court concluded Shashvat Nakrani’s appeal against the ruling pertaining to the sale of shares to Ashneer Grover. The court expedited trial proceedings, establishing deadlines for framing issues and recording evidence under a single judge’s supervision. Despite this, the legal matters remain unresolved. Nakrani’s plea to restrain Grover from selling or transferring shares was originally dismissed, sparking the ongoing dispute.
The Calcutta High Court urged West Bengal to reconsider the names of lions Sita and Akbar at Bengal Safari Park, stating Sita’s reverence and Akbar’s secular accomplishments. The court disapproved of naming animals after religious or revered figures, suggesting a non-controversial renaming. The case has been reclassified as a Public Interest Litigation for further review. (Word count: 50)
The Delhi High Court issued a stay against a ruling that required the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to return seized property if an investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act exceeds 365 days without resulting in a prosecution complaint. The Division Bench granted the stay while the appeal is pending until the next hearing on March 11.
The Bar Council of India (BCI) announced a pivotal initiative on Wednesday (21 Feb) to help legal practitioners adapt to new criminal codes. This includes a time-bound plan to implement new laws, replacing outdated ones from the 19th century. The BCI aims to support practitioners with comprehensive training and upskilling programs for a smooth transition.
The Supreme Court has declined to instruct the Central government to create a nationwide policy for subsidized canteens or community kitchens, stating that existing social welfare programs are sufficient. The decision was made in response to a petition advocating for these establishments amid the challenges posed by COVID-19. The Court left it to the States and Union Territories to ensure implementation of welfare Acts and schemes.
The Calcutta High Court deliberated on a unique plea filed by the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) regarding the naming and housing of a lioness named ‘SITA’ alongside a lion named ‘Akbar’ at Siliguri Safari Park. The petition raised concerns about religious sentiments of Hindus worldwide. The court postponed the hearing to consider the maintainability of the writ, leaving the issue unresolved for now.