Between 2018 and 2022, a total of 540 judges were appointed to various High Courts across India, according to the Law Ministry. Data reveals that 80% of these appointees belonged to upper castes. This highlights a significant caste imbalance in judicial appointments during the period. The figures have sparked discussions on diversity and representation in the judiciary.
The Karnataka High Court denied bail to a man accused of sexually abusing a married woman and forcing her to convert to Islam. The court emphasized the gravity of the allegations in its decision. It ruled that granting bail in such a serious case would be inappropriate. The order highlights the need for strict scrutiny in cases involving coercion and abuse.
Bengaluru: Former Supreme Court judge, Justice Indira Banerjee, emphasized the urgent need for a complete shift in mindset to enable more women to rise to higher positions in the judiciary. She shared her insights during a fireside chat on Saturday with Jayna Kothari, Executive Director of the Centre for Law and Policy Research (CLPR).
Former Chief Justice of India, D.Y. Chandrachud, emphasized the importance of literature in making the law more humane. He highlighted how legal texts often lack context and compassion, while literature provides deeper insights into moral and ethical dilemmas. He noted that understanding beyond statutes is crucial for addressing complex legal and social issues. Literature, he said, helps bridge the gap between law and society, ensuring laws evolve with changing times.
Today, On 21st February, The Supreme Court, hearing the Are-Katika community’s plea for nationwide Scheduled Caste (SC) status, referenced the Manipur crisis. It pointed to the Manipur High Court’s March 2023 order directing the inclusion of Meiteis in the Scheduled Tribes list, which triggered widespread riots. The Court’s remark highlighted the sensitivity of caste-based classifications. The matter remains under judicial scrutiny.
The Karnataka High Court has rejected a plea seeking SC/ST and OBC reservations in the Advocates Association Bengaluru elections. Justice R Devdas ruled that the court cannot grant relief under Article 226 of the Constitution. He advised the petitioners to approach the Supreme Court for further action. The decision upholds the existing election framework for the association.
The Supreme Court upheld a Bombay High Court ruling that intellectual property is covered under “property” in Section 15A of the SC/ST Act. The case involved a Dalit couple seeking compensation for the destruction of their intellectual work. The court reaffirmed their right to protection and compensation under the law. This decision strengthens legal safeguards for marginalized communities.
Telangana’s Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy established a one-man commission led by a retired High Court judge to review Scheduled Castes (SC) categorization, following a Supreme Court ruling. The commission must report within 60 days, impacting job notifications and local elections. Additionally, a social and economic survey for Backward Castes will be conducted.
The Supreme Court, today (24th Sept) led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, will review petitions on Sept 24 concerning sub-classification within Scheduled Castes for reservation benefits. The Court had previously ruled that states can implement such classifications based on data demonstrating backwardness. This decision overturned a past ruling affirming SCs as a homogeneous class.
Today, On 28th August,, the Supreme Court intervened to assist PSU employees facing potential termination due to changes in their reserved category status. The Court ruled against the termination notices issued by the banks and undertakings, ensuring protection for employees affected by caste reclassification in Karnataka. This decision sets aside a previous judgment by the Karnataka High Court.