The Kerala Government has created the post of Senior Standing Counsel for the Supreme Court for the first time, appointing advocate Ramesh Babu. The Congress-led government also appointed four Standing Counsel to strengthen Kerala’s legal representation before the apex court in constitutional and other important matters.
The Bombay High Court observed that Mumbai’s recurring monsoon flooding is not solely the BMC’s responsibility, stating that encroachments, blocked drains and illegal constructions by citizens have worsened the crisis. The Court urged shared accountability, remarking, “We should stop blaming the corporation.”
The Karnataka High Court stayed criminal proceedings against a Coorg homestay owner accused after an employee allegedly raped a 33-year-old American tourist. The Court questioned charges under the repealed Foreigners Act, 1946 and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, while allowing proceedings against the principal accused to continue.
The Madras High Court held that appointments of public prosecutors and government law officers must be based on merit, competence and integrity, not political recommendations. The Court emphasised that an independent, efficient prosecution system is essential for fair criminal justice and effective representation of victims and the State.
The Delhi High Court was informed that mediation in the Sunjay Kapur family trust dispute could conclude by August, raising hopes of an amicable settlement. The matter involved an application by Karisma Kapoor’s children seeking additional time to file their written statement during ongoing mediation.