Today, On 6th November, The Delhi High Court dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that sought permission to conduct Chhath Puja on the banks of the Yamuna River. The court cited the severe pollution levels in the Yamuna, stating that it would be unsafe for people to enter the river’s waters for the festival. Observing potential health risks, the court emphasized the need to protect public safety. The decision highlights ongoing concerns about the Yamuna’s pollution levels and its impact on public gatherings.the Delhi High Court rejected a Public Interest Litigation seeking permission for Chhath Puja on the Yamuna River banks due to severe pollution posing health risks. The court emphasized public safety, underlining ongoing concerns about the river’s contamination and its implications for public gatherings and rituals associated with the festival.
Today, On 16th October, The Supreme Court criticized Punjab and Haryana for failing to address Delhi’s air pollution crisis, mainly caused by stubble burning. It reprimanded the Commission for Air Quality Management for ineffectiveness and lack of qualified members. The court urged stricter actions against violators and highlighted the ongoing pollution challenges due to multiple factors.
A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed with the Delhi High Court highlights a year-long sewer overflow crisis causing water contamination and waterborne diseases. The PIL, filed by NGO Social Jurist, attributes the issue to insufficient desilting, reduced sewer cleaning resources, and outdated infrastructure.
Today, On 14th August, The Supreme Court criticized the Gujarat government for appealing a High Court ruling favoring a sweeper, questioning the decision and demanding details about the officials involved. This stern stance emphasizes adherence to judicial rulings impacting lower-level employees’ livelihoods, stressing responsible government decision-making. Additionally, it warns against unnecessary delays or challenges, reinforcing the importance of justice and efficiency in governance.
A PIL has been filed in the Supreme Court by a non-profit organization seeking mandatory Front-of-Package Warning Labels on packaged foods to disclose levels of sugars, salt, and saturated fats. The initiative aims to address the increasing rates of non-communicable diseases like diabetes and heart disease in India.
The Maharashtra government is set to introduce a new law to crack down on unauthorized pathology labs, ensuring quality medical diagnostics. Proposed regulations will enforce accreditation and penalize illegal operators. Legislators emphasize the need to address issues of financial exploitation and endangerment of lives, highlighting the significance of proper pathology services for surgical procedures.
The Supreme Court has taken a serious stance on the excessive use of pesticides in agriculture, seeking detailed responses from the government and relevant authorities. This move follows concerns about environmental and health impacts, highlighting the urgent need for stricter regulations to ensure food safety and public health amidst rising fatalities linked to pesticide exposure.
Today,22nd April, Karnataka High Court upheld hookah ban, dismissing belief in reduced harm compared to cigarettes due to similar health risks. Ruling aligns with Article 47 of Indian Constitution on public health duties. Decision also based on COTPA and Prohibition of Smoking in Public Places Rules, regulating hookah as a tobacco product and service violating smoking prohibition laws. Public health concerns remain prominent.
On Wednesday (10th April): The Supreme Court of India expressed concern for public well-being, particularly regarding misleading advertisements and unregulated products. Justices emphasized that violations of the law, such as exploiting people’s trust with misleading claims, will not be tolerated. This relates to a recent contempt plea against Patanjali for marketing its product, Coronil, as a COVID-19 cure, violating drug advertising regulations.
On Tuesday (9th April): The Supreme Court questioned the Center’s stand on why states shouldn’t have authority to regulate industrial alcohol to prevent misuse. The matter, referred to a nine-judge bench in 2010, revolves around conflicting powers between the Center and states. The hearing remains inconclusive and will resume on April 16.