NEW DELHI: On Friday, the Supreme Court of India decided not to interfere in an ongoing case regarding illegal tree felling in Delhi. Instead, it has left the decision to the Delhi High Court on whether it wants to continue hearing the matter, even though a similar issue is under consideration by the apex court.
The Bombay High Court issued a notice to the Maharashtra government on a plea seeking legal representation for children in custody battles. The petition argues that minors should have independent lawyers to voice their interests in family court disputes. The court has sought the state’s response on implementing such a provision. This move aims to ensure that children’s welfare is prioritized in parental custody conflicts.
Today, On 31st January, The Supreme Court has ordered the Election Commission of India (EC) to preserve CCTV footage of polling activities as it was done previously. This decision came after the Court granted further time for a respondent to file an affidavit, while emphasizing the need for maintaining transparency. The Court’s order aims to ensure the integrity of the electoral process and address concerns over possible malpractices.
Today, On 30th January, The Supreme Court delayed the hearing on Surendra Gadling’s bail plea in the 2016 Surjagarh mine arson case until next week. The decision made because the Maharashtra government’s lawyer, Raja Thakare, was unavailable. Gadling is accused of involvement in the attack on the iron ore mine in Maharashtra. The hearing will be rescheduled to a later date.
Maharashtra: The Additional Solicitor General (ASG) for Maharashtra and Gujarat, Devang Girish Vyas, has stepped down from his position. He submitted his resignation to the Law Minister on Tuesday, bringing an end to his 12-year tenure. Vyas confirmed his resignation applies to both states, and he expressed gratitude for the support he received during his service.
NEW DELHI: The state governments of Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Assam, and Rajasthan have established Transgender Welfare Boards. This action follows a directive from the Supreme Court of India, announced on January 21, 2025. The court was informed of the progress during a hearing related to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by the Kinner Maa Eksamajik Sanstha Trust.
Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna emphasized that an anti-corruption mediator, like the Lokpal, must work closely with agencies such as the Central Vigilance Commission. This coordination is essential to effectively address corruption and safeguard public systems. He stressed that collaboration strengthens accountability and enhances trust in institutions. Public faith, he noted, is crucial for the success of such efforts.
More than 60 candidates from the INDIA bloc have filed petitions contesting the Maharashtra election results, alleging serious irregularities. The complaints cite issues like duplicate voting, failure to disclose criminal records and assets, EVM malfunctions, voter bribery, and lack of transparency in the electoral process. The petitioners claim these discrepancies undermined the fairness of the polls and are demanding a thorough investigation. The cases are currently under judicial review.
The Bar Council of India (BCI) approached the Supreme Court for permission to increase enrolment fees, saying it is facing a financial crisis. In July 2024, the Supreme Court ruled that State Bar Councils and the BCI cannot charge fees above the limit set by the Advocates Act. The BCI claims that the current fee limit is making it difficult for them to work properly. They have requested higher fees to improve their financial situation.
A two-member fact-finding committee from the National Commission for Women has arrived in Chennai to investigate a reported sexual assault of a 19-year-old Anna University student. The committee, comprising Mamta Kumari and Praveen Dixit, will examine the incident, gather information from various parties, and recommend preventive measures. An ongoing police investigation follows a formal complaint.