Today, On 17th October, the Supreme Court postponed the hearing on petitions challenging the Patna High Court’s ruling that upheld Bihar’s caste-based survey legality. The hearing will now occur on November 7, 2024. The survey aims to collect socio-economic data to support targeted welfare schemes in the state.
Today, On 16th August, The Bombay High Court criticized the Maharashtra government for not activating the state advisory board on disabilities, despite previous court orders. The court emphasized the importance of implementing the board’s functions and expressed concern over the government’s inaction. This issue arose during the court’s consideration of challenges faced by disabled individuals, highlighting the broader issue of compliance with disability rights.
Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, during the 78th Independence Day celebrations, emphasized the crucial role Indian lawyers played in securing independence and building a strong judiciary. He acknowledged their sacrifices and lasting influence on modern India at the Supreme Court Bar Association event.
Today, On 12th July, The Calcutta High Court urged the West Bengal government to provide equal child care benefits to male and female employees, emphasizing the need for gender equality in workplace policies. This recommendation stemmed from a petition by a male primary school teacher seeking extended child care leave after his wife’s passing, highlighting the shared responsibility of parents in caring for their children.
On Thursday(1st August ), Supreme Court Justice Pankaj Mithal cited a 1961 letter by Jawahar Lal Nehru criticizing caste-based reservations and advocating for economic-based support. The Court also ruled that states can create sub-classifications within Scheduled Castes for targeted reservations to uplift more backward sub-castes.
Wilson, a DMK MP, met with Union Law Minister Meghwal to advocate for Permanent Regional Benches of the Supreme Court in various zones and other judicial reforms. Meghwal assured Wilson of reviewing the representation. The proposal also focused on social justice, diversity in judicial appointments, and raising retirement age for judges.
The Justice K Chandru Committee proposed banning ‘Tilak’ and colored wristbands in Tamil Nadu’s educational institutions to foster a secular and inclusive environment. The committee aims to discourage discrimination and promote unity among students of diverse backgrounds. Additionally, the report suggests measures to combat caste-based discrimination and violence, emphasizing the importance of upholding social justice and inclusion.
While the recent verdicts from the Supreme Court represents a significant advancement toward climate justice, it’s imperative that its execution places emphasis on safeguarding the rights and fortitude of marginalized communities.
The National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) criticizes Karnataka’s classification of entire Muslim community as backward caste for reservations, citing lack of nuance and complexities within Muslim society. They argue for a more specific approach recognizing marginalized castes and communities, highlighting the impact on principles of social justice.
On 8th March: During the ‘Hamara Samvidhan Hamara Samman’ campaign, Chief Justice DY Chandrachud emphasized the need for mutual respect and fraternity to maintain equality and unity in the nation. He highlighted the importance of upholding values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity within the Constitution and urged for an inclusive and just society.
