Justice Mahabir Singh Sindhu, a sitting judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, passed away at Medanta Hospital, Gurugram at 59. Born in Haryana, he was a first-generation lawyer who rose from a farming family background through dedicated legal practice and service.
The Calcutta High Court held that authorities cannot insist on a trade licence for registering a partnership firm formed solely for legal practice. The court directed the Registrar of Firms, Societies and Non-Trading Corporations, West Bengal, to register M/s Pinava Legal’s application within two weeks.
Observing that financial hardship is forcing many young advocates to leave litigation, the Supreme Court called for the creation of a Young Lawyers’ Professional Assistance Fund across all States and Union Territories. The Court said a dedicated fund could help overcome economic barriers and prevent brain drain in the legal profession.
The Bar Association of India has moved the Supreme Court seeking an Aadhaar-like nationwide digital registry for advocates to curb fake legal practitioners and verify credentials. CJI Surya Kant termed the proposal a “novel reform” and said all law universities must disclose details of their bona fide graduates.
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant highlighted the rising significance of mediation in commercial dispute resolution, noting that international arbitration increasingly faces delays and procedural complexities. He stressed that mediation should be regarded not merely as an alternative mechanism but as an essential pillar of modern justice systems.
The Bombay Bar Association condemned alleged threats, intimidation, and attacks targeting retired Bombay High Court judge Gautam Patel and his family over the Dawoodi Bohra succession judgment. Calling it a direct assault on judicial independence and the rule of law, the Association demanded accountability and protection.
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant revealed that a robust mechanism is being developed to increase women’s representation in the legal profession. Emphasising his commitment, he said, “I am not a person who only make statements,” while highlighting steps including 30% reservation for women in Bar bodies.
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant praised young lawyers, judicial officers, and legal professionals for driving the judiciary’s technological transformation. Speaking at the Oxford Union, he said their adaptability and willingness to embrace innovation have been instrumental in advancing digital reforms across India’s justice delivery system.
Justice Meenakshi Madan Rai took oath as the Chief Justice of the Patna High Court on Friday, marking a significant milestone in her judicial career and leadership journey. Governor Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Syed Ata Hasnain administered the oath of office and secrecy at a ceremony held at Lok Bhavan in Patna.