NEW DELHI: The Union Cabinet has approved the Waqf (Amendment) Bill based on a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) report. The report was presented in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha during the first half of the 2025 Budget Session. This approval comes after heated debates and protests by opposition MPs in Parliament.
Today, On 16th January, The Supreme Court dismissed a petition challenging Manan Kumar Mishra’s membership in the Rajya Sabha, where he serves as the Chairman of the Bar Council of India (BCI). The petition sought to disqualify Mishra, but the Court found no merit in the challenge and upheld his position. The decision reinforces Mishra’s eligibility to hold the seat in Parliament. The Court ruled in favor of dismissing the plea.
Today, On 10th January, The Supreme Court dismissed PILs challenging the Women’s Reservation Bill, stating there was no violation of fundamental rights, including Article 14. The petitions questioned the Bill’s constitutional validity and its deferment due to the delimitation clause. The Court clarified that Article 32 jurisdiction cannot be invoked in this case. This decision reaffirms the legislative process for implementing women’s political representation in India.
Justice Shekhar Yadav of the Allahabad High Court is under scrutiny for controversial remarks made at a VHP event, suggesting that “law works according to the majority.” His statements have drawn criticism and raised concerns about judicial neutrality. The Supreme Court collegium is set to review the situation as calls for his impeachment grow.
Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra criticized former Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud for inviting Prime Minister Modi to a Ganpati puja and for suggesting divine guidance in judicial decisions. Her remarks sparked controversy, with calls for parliamentary action against her. Moitra condemned the government’s incremental erosion of constitutional values over the past decade.
Kapil Sibal submitted an impeachment motion against Justice Shekhar Yadav of the Allahabad High Court, citing a controversial speech on the Uniform Civil Code. Supported by 55 MPs, the motion criticizes Yadav’s remarks about majority rule and derogatory language. The impeachment process will follow constitutional procedures if admitted by the Rajya Sabha.
Today, On 12th December, Trinamool MP Sagarika Ghose filed a privilege motion against Minister Kiren Rijiju for insulting opposition members by calling them “unworthy.” This sparked outrage among opposition leaders, with 60 MPs from the INDIA bloc supporting the motion. Ghose emphasized the need for accountability and demanded Rijiju’s apology.
RJD Member Manoj Kumar Jha filed an intervention petition in the Supreme Court, asserting that the Places of Worship Act, 1991, does not violate constitutional rights and is essential for preserving India’s secular values. The Act protects places of worship as they existed on August 15, 1947, amidst increasing sectarian tensions.
Today, On 6th December, Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar announced an investigation after currency notes were found on MP Abhishek Manu Singhvi’s seat during a routine check. Singhvi expressed disbelief, citing his brief presence in the House. He called for cooperation in investigating the incident and addressing security concerns.
