The Madhya Pradesh High Court deemed forcing a wife to leave her job as cruelty, granting her divorce from her husband. The court emphasized that a woman’s right to work is integral to her autonomy and dignity. This ruling reinforces the importance of mutual respect in marriage, allowing individuals to resist coercive behaviors.
Today, On 6th November, the Supreme Court dismissed a petition regarding lawyers’ mental health, urging Bar Associations to provide support instead of seeking court intervention. The Chief Justice emphasized the importance of proactive measures for mental wellness in the legal profession, highlighting a significant lack of targeted resources in India compared to other countries.
Yesterday, On 31st October, The Kerala High Court denied a 16-year-old rape survivor’s request to terminate her pregnancy. Justice V.G. Arun allowed the minor and her family the option to place the child for adoption after birth, if they wish. The court also instructed the state government to ensure the necessary legal steps are taken to facilitate this process.
The Bombay High Court has expressed serious concern over the rising number of student suicides in higher education, emphasizing the need for immediate action. In response to a Public Interest Litigation, the court highlighted the legal obligation of universities to prioritize student welfare and create a healthy environment to prevent such tragedies.
The Orissa High Court criticized the CRPF for dismissing a constable who attempted suicide, highlighting the immense pressure faced by armed forces. The court emphasized the need for mental health support and ordered the constable’s reinstatement to non-firearm-related tasks, considering his medical clearance from a mental health institute. The decision was made citing the Mental Healthcare Act.
The Kerala High Court upheld the reproductive rights and dignity of rape survivors, emphasizing the grave mental and physical health risks associated with continuing a pregnancy resulting from rape. The court recognized the fundamental right to autonomy in reproductive decision-making, allowing a 16-year-old survivor to terminate her pregnancy beyond the legally specified timeframe, considering her well-being and future care for the child if the fetus survived.