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 This includes a time-bound plan to implement new laws, replacing outdated ones from the 19th century.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.
The Delhi High Court hears BJP MLAs’ plea against suspension, accusing AAP of politicizing the matter by comparing it to Raghav Chadha’s suspension. The suspended MLAs argue their suspension is unconstitutional and politically motivated, hindering democratic processes. The court instructed the MLAs to meet the Speaker, indicating the significant implications of the case on legislative authority and democratic values.
The Supreme Court has directed the distribution of an expert committee’s report on proposed arbitration sector reforms to concerned parties by March 1, 2024. The Union government is yet to make a final decision on the report. This follows previous Supreme Court rulings and the establishment of a constitution bench to review the matter.
Justice Subramonium Prasad of the Delhi High Court withdrew from hearing a petition urging the SCBA to allocate at least two positions for female lawyers in its Executive Committee. Advocate Yogamaya MG initiated the plea, emphasizing the need for women’s representation in decision-making roles within the legal community to address sexual harassment effectively.