Today, On 14th July, The Supreme Court agreed to hear a plea challenging the Uttar Pradesh government’s decision to merge over 100 primary schools with low student strength. The petition, filed by Taiyyab Khan Salmani, was mentioned for urgent hearing.
The Kerala government informed the High Court that it will not proceed with the 2022 Black Magic Bill aimed at banning sorcery and inhuman practices, due to a cabinet policy decision. This choice follows ongoing court cases addressing harmful rituals and reflects the state’s stance against criminalizing such activities despite increasing concerns.
The Punjab and Haryana High Court dismissed a Public Interest Litigation seeking ‘martyr’ status for victims of the Pahalgam terrorist attack, emphasizing that such matters are for the government to decide, not the judiciary. The court suggested the petitioner approach the government regarding the request for naming the attack site.
New Delhi, Feb 24 – The Supreme Court suggested that the central government consider changing the terminology used in caste certificates for Scheduled Caste (SC) individuals. However, the court emphasized that their rights should remain unchanged. A bench consisting of Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh acknowledged that the final decision rests with Parliament but said that modifying the nomenclature could help prevent individuals from being identified by caste names.
The Bombay High Court today dismissed a PIL challenging Maharashtra’s ‘Ladki Bahin Yojana’ scheme, stating it benefits women without discrimination. The court deemed the scheme a valid policy decision beyond judicial interference. The PIL’s arguments about political motivation and discriminatory nature were disregarded, and the court emphasized the scheme’s social welfare intent.
Today(on 8th July),The Supreme Court dismissed a PIL seeking menstrual leave and advised the Centre to collaborate with stakeholders and states to formulate a model policy. While recognizing the potential of menstrual leave to increase women’s workforce participation, the Court emphasized the need for a balanced approach to avoid unintended consequences and suggested involving the Ministry of Women and Child Development.
The Chhattisgarh High Court rejected a PIL challenging the state’s annual Hindu pilgrimage scheme to the Ayodhya Ram temple, citing its non-discriminatory nature and fulfillment of a pre-election promise. The court emphasized the accessibility to all, dismissed alleged violation of secular principles, and scrutinized the petitioner’s political affiliations. This decision reaffirmed the scheme’s constitutionality and alignment with secular values.