The Chhattisgarh government has amended adoption laws by replacing “adopted son” with “adopted child,” promoting gender equality. This change reflects a shift from patriarchal language and honors progressive figures like Teejan Bai and Phoolbasan Bai. Activists support this move while acknowledging further efforts are needed to eliminate gender bias in official language.
Chief Justice DY Chandrachud emphasized that if an individual judge has concerns about a decision, the appropriate course of action is to discuss it with the chief justice. He highlighted the importance of internal dialogue within the judiciary. Open communication, he noted, helps maintain institutional integrity. His remarks underscore the need for judicial cooperation and consensus.
Law is not just about justice; it’s a tool for transformation, says ex-CJI DY Chandrachud. He emphasized that laws evolve with time, and overruling past judgments isn’t merely about fixing errors. Instead, it ensures that the law stays relevant to the society it serves. Legal changes reflect societal progress and adaptability.
The Calcutta High Court expressed disapproval of trial courts offering unwanted advice in divorce proceedings. It emphasized that only the couple involved can decide on reconciliation. This follows a case where a trial court suggested a couple reunite for their child’s sake, which the High Court deemed inappropriate and beyond the court’s jurisdiction.
Justice R. Mahadevan, born on June 10, 1963, in Chennai, was appointed as an Additional Judge of the Madras High Court in 2013 and became a Permanent Judge in 2015. He transitioned to the Supreme Court, marking a significant milestone as the first Chief Justice of the Madras High Court elevated in six years.
Justice NK Singh, born on March 1, 1963, in Imphal, Manipur, assumed office as a Supreme Court judge on July 18, 2024, marking a milestone as Manipur’s first judge in the Supreme Court. His judicial career includes significant roles in various high courts and notable rulings in cases related to nationality and citizenship.
Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia, born on August 10, 1960, has had a distinguished legal career spanning over three decades. He was appointed to the Supreme Court of India on May 9, 2022, after serving as Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court and has authored 81 judgments, contributing to legal excellence and public service. He will retire on August 9, 2025.
Justice P.S. Narasimha, born on May 3, 1963, assumed office as a Supreme Court Judge on August 31, 2021. He has authored 59 judgments and notably contributed to landmark cases and legal reforms. He will become Chief Justice of India in October 2027, being appointed directly from the bar.
The Supreme Court requested the Centre’s response to a petition challenging the use of derogatory caste names in official certificates. The petition argues these terms violate dignity and equality principles, perpetuating stigma against Scheduled Castes. The petitioners seek to replace offensive terms with less discriminatory alternatives in official documents.
The Supreme Court of India Today (Oct 23), postponed the hearing of multiple petitions that seek the criminalization of marital rape in the country. The hearing, overseen by a Bench composed of Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud, along with Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, was deferred after the counsel from both sides laid out the time required for presenting their arguments. According to the submissions made by the lawyers, each side will need at least one full day to make their case. This led the Court to conclude that a judgment cannot be delivered before CJI Chandrachud’s retirement, which is scheduled for November 10, 2024.
