The Supreme Court of India today dismissed a petition challenging new criminal laws due to casual filing and pending implementation. The laws aim to modernize the justice system and emphasize justice over punishment, addressing crimes against women, children, and terrorism. Concerns were raised about police custody, handcuffing, property seizure, trial fairness, and electronic evidence admissibility.
![[Sandeshkhali Sting Operation] Plea in SC Seeks SIT Probe into YT Video](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/MicrosoftTeams-image-58-1.png?resize=447%2C367&ssl=1)
Today (14th May): A plea filed in the Supreme Court seeks a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into a sting operation video related to the Sandeshkhali incident. The footage allegedly reveals fabricated rape charges against a TMC leader and undue influence on investigative agencies. The plea urges for a thorough investigation and emphasizes the necessity of scrutinizing the video evidence.
The Madras High Court has directed the National Testing Agency to provide sanitary pads near toilets at NEET exam centers across India, in response to a 19-year-old petitioner’s medical needs. The ruling aims to ensure adequate facilities for female candidates and has been well-received, though concerns about monitoring during restroom breaks have been raised.
On 30th April: The Delhi High Court expressed concern about unauthorized constructions on Waqf properties, highlighting the lack of oversight. It emphasized the need for effective monitoring. The court discussed a specific case in Nizamuddin East and questioned the authorities about the ongoing dispute between the Waqf Board and the Delhi Development Authority. There are also concerns about the administrator’s actions.
![[BREAKING] Forest Fires in Uttarakhand, Urgent Listing Requested in SC](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/MicrosoftTeams-image-11-2.png?resize=447%2C367&ssl=1)
Today (29th April): Uttarakhand’s devastating forest fires prompt urgent Supreme Court petition filing for listing. The destruction of approximately 33.34 hectares of forest land has led to heightened efforts, with the Indian Army and Air Force joining firefighting operations. Former Chief Minister criticizes government’s response. Fresh incidents continue, emphasizing the need for immediate action.
![[Freedom of Speech] Are Government Servants Allowed to Speak to the media? Allahabad HC Asks State Gov.](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/hc-1.jpg?resize=447%2C367&ssl=1)
The Allahabad High Court has questioned whether government servants are allowed to communicate with the media freely. Justice JJ Munir has asked the State government to clarify if there are any restrictions in the service rules and directed the Department of Personnel to outline measures for training younger government servants to avoid impromptu media interactions if such restrictions exist.
Today (25th April): The Kerala High Court has stayed the land acquisition notification for the proposed Sabarimala airport for two months, following a plea by a charitable trust and its managing trustee. The trust alleges that the acquisition process aimed to unlawfully acquire their property. The government emphasized the airport’s benefits for pilgrims and tourism.
Today (18th April): The Supreme Court is set to hear a plea to tally Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) votes with Voter-Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slips during elections. The petition aims to ensure accuracy and integrity in the electoral process and seeks expanded verification of all EVM votes with VVPAT records. This plea challenges the current guidelines and emphasizes the need for stringent punishment to prevent manipulation.
On Friday (5th April): The Kerala High Court declined to postpone the airing of the movie “The Kerala Story” on Doordarshan channel despite a petition seeking a delay until after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The petitioner alleged that the movie contains propaganda that could influence voters, leading to a scheduled hearing on April 11.