Sushil Kumar Modi’s passing raises concerns about the defamation case against Rahul Gandhi for his “Modi surname” remark. Legal experts confirm that Sushil Modi’s heirs can continue the lawsuit. If the family chooses not to proceed, the court may dismiss the case. Indian law allows heirs to pursue defamation cases on behalf of the deceased.
Today (6th May): The Supreme Court of India upheld the minimum marks requirement in Bihar Judicial Services Examination interviews, ruling that it does not violate the right to equality under Article 14 of the Indian Constitution. The decision came in response to a plea from unsuccessful candidates, emphasizing the importance of maintaining fairness and transparency in the recruitment process.
The Patna High Court directed the Bihar Education Department to avoid coercive action against state universities and officials until further notice amid ongoing disputes. The court ordered a suspension of salary freezes and account holds, emphasizing the need for amicably resolving issues to maintain academic stability and safeguard student interests. The next hearing is scheduled for May 17.
The Patna High Court on 25th April fined lower court judges Rs 100 each for wrongly convicting a man in a dowry harassment case. Sunil Pandit appealed against his conviction and was acquitted by Justice Chaudhuri, who emphasized the duty of courts to carefully examine complaints before proceeding. The fines were to address the petitioner’s suffering due to the lower courts’ approach.
The Patna High Court has permitted the recruitment of assistant professors in Bihar’s state universities, ending a four-year hiatus. The court mandated specific guidelines for creating reservation rosters for each university. The decision ensures subject-wise and university-wise determination of reservation quotas, following a prolonged legal dispute. The Bihar State University Service Commission will promptly resume the appointment process.
Today, 16th April, The Bihar state government defended its caste census initiative in a recent Supreme Court affidavit, aiming to understand socio-economic conditions for marginalized communities and to enhance policies for disadvantaged groups. The government emphasized adherence to constitutional mandates and outlined various initiatives based on the survey report’s findings, such as quota benefits and educational support.
The Patna High Court ruled that derogatory terms like “Bhoot” and “Pisach” directed at a wife do not always constitute ‘cruelty’ under Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code. Despite conviction by lower courts, the High Court overturned the decision due to lack of specific evidence and affirmed its authority to rectify miscarriages of justice.
The Patna High Court condemned the assault on junior advocates, highlighting safety and justice issues in the city. The police’s inadequate response led to court intervention, including the removal of an officer and the formation of a Special Investigating Team. This case underscores the need for systemic changes to ensure safety and justice for all in Patna.
The Calcutta High Court approved a fact-finding mission led by a former Patna High Court judge to investigate political unrest in Sandeshkhali. This follows the court’s permission for the opposition leader to visit the area. Despite some controversy, the mission aims to uncover facts amid ongoing turbulence, including land-grabbing and sexual assault allegations.
The Patna High Court issued a notice to Bihar regarding mismanagement and non-utilization of funds collected under the Health and Education cess since 2008. The court ordered a comprehensive affidavit on the collected and expended funds within four weeks. The PIL highlights underutilization, misallocation, and lack of transparency, seeking proper fund use and compliance with CAG recommendations.