In an open letter addressed to Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud, students from the National University of Juridical Sciences (NUJS), Kolkata, have demanded the immediate suspension of their Vice Chancellor based on allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct. Justice Chandrachud also happens to be the University Chancellor.
Today(on 24th May),The Calcutta High Court has temporarily halted the FIR against the Governor’s Officer on Special Duty, who is accused of obstructing a sexual harassment complaint process. Allegations include restraining a female worker and pressuring her to remain silent. The court emphasized the preliminary nature of the investigation and stayed proceedings until June 17.
Today, On 21st May, A Delhi court charged BJP MP Brij Bhushan Singh with sexual harassment based on allegations by female wrestlers. Singh pleaded not guilty, stating his readiness to face trial. He denied any wrongdoing and provided evidence of innocence. The next hearing is scheduled for June 1. Singh’s son has been granted a ticket for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Today, On 14th May A female BJP worker, Piyali Das, surrendered in the Sandeshkhali case, accused of fabricating sexual assault complaints against TMC leaders. The court remanded her to judicial custody for coercing a woman into signing a blank paper. The case raised doubts about the authenticity of the movement, initially a protest against land grabbing, turning into allegations of sexual atrocities committed by TMC leaders.
Today(on 9th May), Calcutta HC dismisses PIL alleging sexual harassment by Governor CV Anand Bose, concluding the case decisively. Chief Justice TS Shivagnam and Justice Hiranmoy Bhattacharya presided over the division bench.
The Calcutta High Court addressed workplace interactions and misuse of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, citing the use of terms like ‘Sweety’ and ‘Baby’. The court found that while the terms were inappropriate, their use did not constitute sexual harassment, cautioning against misuse of the Act to avoid hindering women’s employment opportunities.
The Supreme Court Today (May 6th) during a mentioning by the Supreme Court Bar Association-SCBA, has clarified that its previous order directing a minimum of 1/3rd of seats in the Executive Committee for women is on an “experimental basis”.
Allegations of sexual harassment against West Bengal’s Governor, CV Ananda Bose, by a staff member of Raj Bhavan have sparked a heated dispute. The Governor’s claim of immunity under Article 361 is being debated, drawing parallels to past cases. The Supreme Court has upheld absolute immunity for Governors, even in cases of personal misconduct. Such immunity was recognized in a 2017 case involving Kalyan Singh, and historical resignations have occurred amidst similar allegations.
Today (2nd May): The Supreme Court directed that one-third of SCBA posts must be reserved for women. For the current year, three executive members, two senior executive members, and the treasurer must be women. This aims to promote gender inclusivity and diversity within the association. The directive builds on a plea for gender representation. Elections for the 2024-25 term are scheduled for May 16th.
Today, On 1st May, GNLU’s Registrar apologized for downplaying rape and harassment allegations at the university, following widespread criticism and court intervention. The Gujarat High Court acknowledged the apology and made recommendations for improving the Internal Complaints Committee. They emphasized the need for male representation in the committee and proposed the establishment of a complaint box managed by an independent secretariat.
