Today, On 28th January, The Supreme Court agreed to hear a plea challenging UGC’s new rules to prevent caste discrimination in educational institutions. CJI Surya Kant said, “We know what’s happening. Make sure defects are cured. We will list it.”
Between 2018 and 2022, a total of 540 judges were appointed to various High Courts across India, according to the Law Ministry. Data reveals that 80% of these appointees belonged to upper castes. This highlights a significant caste imbalance in judicial appointments during the period. The figures have sparked discussions on diversity and representation in the judiciary.
Today, On 21st February, The Supreme Court, hearing the Are-Katika community’s plea for nationwide Scheduled Caste (SC) status, referenced the Manipur crisis. It pointed to the Manipur High Court’s March 2023 order directing the inclusion of Meiteis in the Scheduled Tribes list, which triggered widespread riots. The Court’s remark highlighted the sensitivity of caste-based classifications. The matter remains under judicial scrutiny.
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.
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Today, On 4th October, the Supreme Court dismissed review petitions challenging its previous ruling that allows sub-classification within Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe categories for job and education reservations. The court reaffirmed the decision as constitutionally valid, emphasizing the need for equitable distribution of benefits to the most marginalized groups within these communities.
Pooja Khedkar, a former IAS officer, faces allegations of submitting forged disability certificates to cheat in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2022. The Delhi High Court extended her interim arrest protection until October 4, 2024, as investigations suggest a larger conspiracy. Khedkar denies the charges and was discharged from the service on September 7.
There are 109 women serving as judges in India’s higher judiciary, marking progress towards gender equality. Efforts to increase this number must continue to create a supportive environment for women in the legal profession. The government’s commitment to transparency in judicial appointments reflects a positive step toward greater inclusivity.