The Supreme Court has stayed the Allahabad High Court’s order stopping Ram Lila at a school ground in Tundla, Uttar Pradesh. The Court allowed festivities with the condition that children must continue to use the ground for play and sports.
The Supreme Court directed the Assam Human Rights Commission to investigate allegations of fake police encounters in Assam, following a Public Interest Litigation. The court stressed adherence to procedural safeguards and the necessity of impartial investigations while acknowledging the serious nature of the accusations. The commission is tasked with ensuring affected families can voice their concerns.
Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad of Ashoka University was arrested on May 18 by Haryana Police for allegedly making objectionable social media posts about Operation Sindoor. The Supreme Court questioned his motivations for posting, labeling his statements as seeking attention. He remains in judicial custody, with a court hearing set for May 27, 2025.
Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna highlighted the judiciary’s unique connection with citizens during an event celebrating 75 years of India’s Constitution. He emphasized easy access for the public to raise grievances against the state and underscored the importance of both judges and lawyers in the judiciary’s functioning.
The Supreme Court collegium, led by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, held an unprecedented meeting in Visakhapatnam to assess candidates for judgeship from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana High Courts. This marks a significant departure from traditional processes, allowing personal interaction to evaluate candidates’ suitability, while also addressing diversity concerns regarding family connections in judicial appointments.
Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna has appointed Justice Surya Kant as the new chairman of the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee, succeeding Justice BR Gavai, who now heads NALSA. Justice Kant, previously Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh, will enhance legal aid access for underprivileged groups. His leadership aims to uphold equality and justice, making the Supreme Court more inclusive.
Supreme Court judge Justice Surya Kant praised the 2018 amendments to the Specific Relief Act, saying they strengthen India’s appeal as an investment hub by enhancing contract enforceability, especially in infrastructure. At the launch of Sarkar Specific Relief Act, Justice KV Viswanathan and Advocate Siddharth Sethi emphasized the Act’s adaptation to modern legal needs, while author Sudipto Sarkar highlighted Section 14A’s unique inquisitorial aspect.