Mumbai: The Interactive Lawyers’ Association for Women held a discussion on the use and misuse of Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which was replaced with Section 85 of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) in 2023. The event took place on Friday at courtroom number 21 in the Mumbai High Court complex and was attended by female lawyers and law students.
Today, On 7th February, The Supreme Court ruled that relatives of an accused cannot be implicated in domestic violence cases under Section 498A simply for not assisting the victim. The Court emphasized that complaints and charges must be specific against each accused family member. It stated that vague or general allegations are not sufficient for prosecution. This decision aims to prevent misuse of the law and ensure fairness in such cases.
The High Court emphasized the need to address the societal implications of live-in relationships, stating, “It is high time we consider and establish a framework to uphold the moral values of society.” The court highlighted growing concerns over the impact of such relationships on traditional norms. It called for a collective effort to find solutions that balance individual freedoms with cultural ethics.
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court of India has today (20th Jan) stated that it will either wait for the Union Government to take a decision or will proceed to decide on the merits of a mercy petition filed by Balwant Singh Rajoana. This petition seeks to reduce his death sentence to life imprisonment. The petition has been pending before the President of India since 2012.
Today, On 15th January, The Supreme Court granted interim protection from arrest to former IAS trainee Puja Khedkar. She is accused of fraudulently using reservation benefits meant for Other Backward Classes (OBC) and Persons with Benchmark Disabilities to pass the UPSC exam. Khedkar has denied the charges, and the court’s order allows her temporary relief. The case is under further investigation.
The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) and the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA) have approached the Supreme Court with a request. They seek a direction to ensure that the names of all lawyers present and appearing in a case are officially recorded. This move aims to give due recognition to all advocates contributing to cases. The matter is now before the top court for consideration.
The Supreme Court ruled that vehicles involved in drug trafficking under the NDPS Act can be confiscated after the trial is complete. In cases where no specific restriction exists under the Act, courts can use their general authority under the CrPC to decide on returning seized vehicles before the criminal case is resolved. This decision reinforces stringent measures against drug-related offenses while ensuring procedural fairness during ongoing trials.
Today, On 24th December, A Delhi court declined its decision on the regular bail plea of Jammu and Kashmir MP Rashid Engineer. After hearing the arguments, the court chose to delay the ruling. Rashid Engineer had applied for regular bail in relation to alleged offenses. The court will continue to examine the case before issuing a final order.
The Supreme Court of India granted bail to Athar Parwez, accused of plotting disturbances during Prime Minister Modi’s visit, citing the prolonged detention without trial as an infringement of personal liberty. The court noted doubts about evidence and emphasized the need for a timely trial, ordering his release under specified conditions.