Today, On 16th May, The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) withdrew its petition from the Supreme Court seeking office land in New Delhi, indicating a shift in strategy. The party aims to explore alternative solutions outside the judicial process. This decision follows the ongoing proceedings at the Delhi High Court and the rejection of their land allocation request.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) Today (May 17th) took its objection to the transfer of the Bhushan Steel money laundering case to the Delhi High Court, citing concerns over the remarks made by a judge who allegedly questioned the likelihood of bail in ED matters. Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma presided over the hearing on Friday and issued a notice to the accused, Ajay S Mittal.
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Today (14th May): Two NGOs have urged the Supreme Court for a court-monitored investigation into alleged “quid pro quo” instances in the electoral bonds scheme involving political parties, corporate entities, and investigative agencies. This comes after the scheme was deemed unconstitutional. They seek recovery of funds from companies involved in such arrangements and emphasize the need for thorough investigation.
The Principal District and Sessions Judge of the Rouse Avenue Courts has transferred the Bhushan Steel Money Laundering case from one judge to another after the accused alleged that the judge has “probable bias” in favour of Enforcement Directorate (ED) because he allegedly remarked “ED matters main kaun si bail hoti hai (who gets bail in ED matters)”.
Legal heavyweights Bansuri Swaraj of BJP and Somnath Bharti of AAP vie for New Delhi Lok Sabha seat, showcasing the scarcity of lawyer MPs. Swaraj, daughter of late Union Minister Sushma Swaraj, brings legal expertise, while Bharti, despite facing legal challenges, boasts an IIT MSc and Delhi University LLB. The constituency’s historical significance and voter sentiments add complexity to the race.
The Delhi High Court directed judges to give priority to criminal cases involving MPs and MLAs, aiming for swift and efficient resolution. The court also instructed the registry to re-allocate pending cases and disseminate the judgment to other judges. Special MP/MLA courts were advised to prioritize cases punishable by death or life imprisonment.=”__JETPACK_AI_ERROR__”
The SC Bar Association rallied to save a seven-year-old girl with Fanconi anemia, raising funds for her costly bone marrow transplant. Bar members donated ₹5 lakh, but there was still a ₹15 lakh shortfall. Senior lawyer Harish Salve pledged and transferred the remaining amount, ensuring the girl’s prompt treatment. This act showcased the Bar’s commitment to supporting its members in need.
The Supreme Court granted bail to Sam Higginbottom University’s vice chancellor, Rajendra Bihari Lal, in religious conversion cases. The court raised concerns about excessive police interest in the matter. Lal is charged with serious offenses and is required to cooperate with the ongoing investigation. The state government’s plea to recall the bail order was denied.
Today (3rd April) Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, currently in judicial custody over the liquor policy case, began his day in Tihar Jail by cleaning his cell. He has requested a chair and is allowed home-cooked meals and prescribed medications. Kejriwal is in good health and has lost weight. He was also in Tihar Jail in 2014.
The Supreme Court Today declined to halt the judicial inquiry into the death of a 22-year-old amid the farmers’ protest at the Punjab-Haryana border. The court acknowledged concerns, emphasizing transparency and fairness in investigations. It dismissed the government’s apprehension about affecting police morale. The case will be heard next on April 19.