The Supreme Court of India is hearing 124 petitions challenging a Calcutta High Court ruling that annulled the appointments of 25,753 teachers in West Bengal over alleged irregularities in the 2016 recruitment process. Advocates argue for the protection of innocent candidates’ rights amid concerns about the mass cancellation’s fairness and potential negative impacts on their lives and careers.
The Madras High Court annulled a 20-year-old woman’s marriage to her former teacher, citing coercion and lack of understanding during the signing of marriage papers. The court voided the registration, emphasizing the importance of consent and personal autonomy. The teacher agreed to end the marriage, allowing the woman to pursue her education.
The Gujarat High Court dismissed criminal charges against a teacher and school trustee accused of driving a student to suicide through slapping and humiliation. The court ruled there was no evidence of instigation toward suicide. The decision cited lack of evidence and emphasized the need for close linkage between instigation and the act of suicide.
The Punjab and Haryana High Court fined a married teacher Rs. 50,000 for seeking legal protection in his live-in relationship with a 19-year-old student, emphasizing the misuse of legal processes in personal relationship matters. The court’s decision aims to deter educators from abusing the law and upholds the sanctity of marriage.
The Supreme Court of India has adjourned the Muzaffarnagar student slapping case until February 6, 2024. The court allowed the petitioner’s counsel to offer suggestions on implementing recommendations by the Tata Institute of Social Studies. The case involves a seven-year-old Muslim student assaulted by classmates at the behest of his teacher, sparking national outrage. This case highlights important issues in child rights and communal harmony.