In a tragic incident in Bhandara district of Maharashtra, eight people lost their lives in an explosion. In response to this, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced a financial aid package of Rs 5 lakh for the affected families. The cause of the blast is yet to be determined, and an investigation is underway.
In today's round-up, we highlight the latest news and commentary related to the Supreme Court. With a focus on a wide range of topics, from recent decisions to upcoming cases and analysis of the court's impact, this daily selection provides readers with a comprehensive coverage of the highest court in the land. Stay informed on the latest developments and opinions shaping the legal landscape in our country.
The tragic and brutal death of Nikki Bhati at the hands of her in-laws over dowry demands has once again brought attention to India's longstanding issue with dowry violence. Despite criminalization in 1961 and continued efforts to eradicate the practice, cases like Nikki's continue to make headlines. The recently codified Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita includes additional safeguards for women, but it remains to be seen if it can effectively address this deep-rooted societal problem.
The Supreme Court has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by former apex court judge J Chelameswar to conduct a fact-finding inquiry against Vantara, a zoo in Gujarat's Jamnagar. This decision comes after allegations of non-compliance with laws and acquisition of animals from India and abroad, particularly elephants. The court deemed it necessary to have an independent investigation due to the serious nature of the allegations and the lack of verification by statutory authorities or courts. The SIT will consist of respectable individuals with impeccable integrity and high repute, and their findings will assist the court in making any further decisions.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis responded to the Opposition's accusations of 'vote theft' and claimed that they were using these claims as a way to reassure their own party workers about their chances. The statement comes after MNS chief Raj Thackeray supported Rahul Gandhi's claims of 'vote chori' in the previous Assembly elections. Thackeray also mentioned bringing up this issue to top leaders but no action was taken. Fadnavis dismissed Thackeray's claims, saying they were just trying to prevent their party workers from getting disheartened after continuous losses.
The Delhi High Court has set aside a 2016 order by the Central Information Commission (CIC) that had directed Delhi University to disclose details of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's degree in response to an RTI application. The court held that information regarding an individual's educational qualifications falls under the category of "personal information" and should not be disclosed without overriding public interest. The verdict comes after DU had challenged the CIC's order in 2017, citing fiduciary relationship and right to privacy. The HC further expressed its dismay at the CIC's subjective approach and emphasized that the RTI Act was not meant for sensationalism but to promote transparency in government functioning.
During a recent session in the Lok Sabha, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his repetitive and lackluster speech. She accused him of being a "distorian" - distorting facts for his own benefit - and called out his 11 "hollow promises" that do not reflect his supposed "zero tolerance" towards corruption. Gandhi Vadra's scathing remarks have once again sparked debate over the effectiveness of the current government's policies.
Congress leader Udit Raj has criticized former Planning Commission member Syeda Saiyidain Hameed for her controversial statement defending Bangladeshi immigrants in Assam. Raj stated that her comments were completely against the Congress party's position on illegal infiltration and urged for stricter action against infiltration from neighboring countries. He also clarified that the party's official stance is that no infiltrator will be tolerated. The remarks came after a viral video of Hameed defending Bangladeshi immigrants and accusing the Assam government of unfairly targeting Muslims.
The Delhi High Court has overturned a 2016 order by the Central Information Commission (CIC) that required Delhi University to reveal information about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's bachelor's degree. The court cited privacy concerns as the reason for their decision, which was made after the university challenged the CIC order. The RTI applicant, who originally filed the request for information, argued that the disclosure of the prime minister's educational information is in the public interest, but the university and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta opposed this reasoning and defended their stance to keep the information private.
The Delhi High Court has dismissed a Central Information Commission (CIC) order seeking the disclosure of specific details of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's BA degree from Delhi University under the Right to Information (RTI) Act. The Court observed that the information was of personal nature and lacked public interest, stating that educational qualifications are not a requirement for holding public office. The Court also noted that the university was ready to share the information with the court, and the CIC's order must be set aside.
Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat stated that the ongoing All India Speakers' Conference at the Delhi Assembly building holds great historical significance. He also highlighted the importance of the building as a witness to revered moments from the freedom movement. Shekhawat further suggested holding a session to discuss the contributions of Vithalbhai Patel as part of the centenary celebrations at the Assembly.