Welcome to this edition of India Judiciary Watch, a concise review of the key legal and judicial developments that shaped the week. Between 15 and 20 June 2026, courts across the country engaged with a diverse range of issues spanning constitutional governance, electoral processes, civil liberties, administrative accountability, and public policy.
Among the notable developments were the Supreme Court’s consideration of challenges relating to the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Act, 2026 and its examination of the use of Aadhaar in voter registration processes. The week also witnessed significant rulings on transparency and accountability, including the Supreme Court’s decision striking down a notification exempting Madhya Pradesh’s Lokayukta police wing from the Right to Information Act, as well as its recognition of safe pedestrian movement as a fundamental right.
This edition examines these and other important proceedings and judgments from the Supreme Court and various High Courts, offering a snapshot of the legal issues shaping governance and public administration across India.
Key Legal Developments
Supreme Court Stays High Court Proceedings on Transgender Amendment Act 2026, Issues Notice on Centre's Transfer Petition
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Supreme Court issued notice on the Central Government's petitions seeking to transfer and consolidate the challenges to the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Act 2026 pending across the Rajasthan, Karnataka, Kerala, and Delhi High Courts. The bench stayed the proceedings in those High Courts, indicating it may transfer the matters to the Supreme Court or assign them to a single High Court. The Solicitor General urged that any transferred petitions be placed before a three-judge bench, given that the petitioners rely on the two-judge NALSA judgment of 2014. The bench briefly heard a petitioner Dr. Chandresh Jain, who argued the amendment undermines the NALSA recognition of self-identification of gender and lacks medical basis.’
West Bengal SIR: Supreme Court Says Excluded 75-Year-Old Lawyer Ought To Be Included In Voter List
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Supreme Court orally observed that a 75-year-old advocate, whose name was excluded from the voter list during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal, appeared prima facie entitled to inclusion. However, noting that the petitioner had already approached the SIR Appellate Tribunal, the Court declined to decide the issue itself and directed the tribunal to dispose of his appeal expeditiously, preferably within two months, while acknowledging the heavy backlog of pending SIR appeals.
Three-Member SIT Begins Investigation Into Alleged Ram Temple Donation Embezzlement
Source: The New Indian Express
Development: In furtherance of the PIL before Allahabad High Court for a transparent probe into allegations of embezzlement of donations received by the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, the Uttar Pradesh Government has constituted a three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT), which commenced its investigation on 15th June, 2026. The panel began examining records relating to donation counting, cash handling, storage and supervision, besides interacting with trust officials and taking over material collected during the temple's internal inquiry. The SIT was constituted after the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, while denying allegations of large-scale misappropriation, requested Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to order an independent investigation. The panel has been directed to submit a preliminary report within seven days and a final report within fifteen days.
'No Question Of Interim Protection': Supreme Court Refuses To Pass Order Against CBSE's Three-Language Policy
Source: The Times Of India
Development: The Supreme Court of India refused to grant interim protection against the Central Board of Secondary Education's implementation of its three-language policy for Class 9 students from the 2026–27 academic session, observing that no interim order could be passed at this stage. The petition, filed by Friends of People for Active Democracy, challenged the implementation of the policy. The Court directed that the matter be tagged with similar pending petitions and listed it for hearing on 14th July, while the challenge to the policy introduced under the National Education Policy 2020 remains pending.
'No Material To Show Foul Play': Madras High Court Orally Remarks In Plea Seeking CBI Probe Into AIADMK MLAs' Switch To TVK
Source: LiveLaw, Bar and Bench
Development: The Madras High Court reserved orders on a PIL seeking a CBI probe into alleged irregularities and horse-trading in connection with the resignation of four AIADMK MLAs who joined Chief Minister Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) on the same day. While questioning the maintainability of the PIL filed by AIADMK member and advocate Ramkumar Adityan, the bench observed that no material had been produced to substantiate allegations of foul play. In a parallel development, a division bench issued notice to the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly’s Secretary on AIADMK's plea challenging Speaker M. Appavu's decision accepting the resignations. The party contends that the Speaker ought to have first examined whether the MLAs had incurred disqualification under the Tenth Schedule for defecting to the TVK, instead of permitting them to resign and necessitating by-elections.
Savarkar Filed 10 Mercy Petitions Before British, Revolutionaries Like Bhagat Singh Refused To Compromise : Grandnephew Tells Pune Court
Source: Live Law
Development: During the cross-examination of Shri Satyaki Savarkar in the criminal defamation case filed against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi before a Pune MP/MLA Court, he deposed that Vinayak Damodar Savarkar had filed ten mercy petitions before the British Government seeking reduction of his sentence, while acknowledging that revolutionaries such as Bhagat Singh, Batukeshwar Dutt, Rajguru and Ashfaqulla Khan did not seek clemency. He maintained that filing mercy petitions was a lawful and common procedure under British rule, denied that the petitions expressed loyalty to the British, and stated that official records of the petitions were available. The defamation case arises from allegations that Rahul Gandhi, during a speech in London in 2023, made false statements about Savarkar, including claiming that he had written about assaulting a Muslim man, thereby harming his reputation.
Supreme Court Issues Notice on Plea Challenging Re-Appointment of Bihar Minister Shri Deepak Prakash Without Election as MLA
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Supreme Court issued notice on a writ petition by social activist Rakesh Kumar Singh challenging the re-appointment of Shri Deepak Prakash as Bihar's Panchayati Raj Minister without his having been elected to the State legislature. The petition contends that under Article 164(4) a non-legislator may remain a minister for only six consecutive months, a one-time, non-revivable exception. Prakash, first inducted on 20th November, 2025 was re-appointed on 7th May, 2026 under the new Government of Chief Minister Shri Samrat Choudhary, his original term having expired on 20th May, 2026. Relying on S.R. Chaudhari v. State of Punjab (2001), the petitioner argues this is an arbitrary exercise of power to indirectly extend the grace period and seeks a writ of quo warranto declaring the reappointment unconstitutional and void.
'Can't Linger Indefinitely': Kerala High Court Asks SIT To Specify Time Required To File Final Report In Sabarimala Gold Theft Case
Source: Live Law
Development: The Kerala High Court granted the Special Investigation Team a final opportunity to specify the timeline for filing its final report in the court-monitored probe into the alleged theft of gold from the Dwarapalaka idols and Sreekovil doorframes at Sabarimala Temple. Observing that the investigation had already been given sufficient time, the Court said the proceedings could not continue indefinitely and directed the SIT to submit, by 29th June, a comprehensive report identifying the role of the accused and officials, along with a definite timeframe for completing the investigation. The Court also noted that scientific findings and seized records had narrowed the investigation towards the 2025 gold-plating process and the alleged conspiracy behind the removal and transportation of the idols.
Madras High Court Restrains Construction of Church Near Mariyamman Temple in Coimbatore, Citing Communal Sensitivity
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Madras High Court bench of Justice GR Swaminathan and Justice V Lakshminarayan ordered a temporary injunction restraining the construction of a church near a Mariyamman Temple in Coimbatore District. The Court held that mala fide intentions could not be ruled out when a large church was proposed to be constructed near a temple despite opposition from the majority Hindu community, noting that revenue records indicated the site was a public road, the location was too close to an old temple, and there was vigorous opposition. The Court was hearing a plea challenging the police protection granted by the District Collector, Coimbatore, and the RDO to the President of the CSI Christ King Church for the construction. The Court observed that Coimbatore is a communally sensitive city.
“Rival TMC Faction Secured Greatest Numerical Strength”: Calcutta HC Refuses Stay On Appointment Of Ritabrata Banerjee As LoP
Development: The Calcutta High Court refused to stay the appointment of TMC rebel leader Ritabrata Banerjee as the Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly, holding that no prima facie case for interim relief had been made out. The dispute arose after senior leader Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay challenged the Speaker's decision, claiming he had been validly nominated by the All India Trinamool Congress leadership. The Court noted that the rival faction had secured the support of 58 out of 80 AITC MLAs, while the resolution backing Chattopadhyay was under police investigation over alleged forged signatures. It held that these disputed facts, coupled with the interim stay on Banerjee's expulsion from the party, disentitled the petitioner from interim protection.
Congress, CPI Move Bombay High Court Against Maharashtra Special Public Security Act; Allege Chilling Effect On Free Speech
Source: Live Law
Development: The Indian National Congress and the Communist Party of India moved the Bombay High Court challenging the constitutional validity of the Maharashtra Special Public Security Act, 2025, contending that its vague definitions and sweeping executive powers have a chilling effect on free speech, association and peaceful assembly. The petition alleges that the Act permits organisations to be banned, property to be attached and coercive action to be taken without adequate judicial safeguards, violating Articles 14, 19, 21 and 300A of the Constitution. It seeks a declaration that the Act is unconstitutional and an interim stay on its operation and enforcement.
Supreme Court Seeks Centre, ECI Response On Plea To Restrict Use Of Aadhaar In Voter Registration
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Supreme Court issued notice to the Union Government, State Governments and the Election Commission of India on a public interest litigation seeking directions to ensure that Aadhaar is used solely as proof of identity and not as proof of citizenship, domicile, address or date of birth. The division bench was hearing the plea filed by BJP leader and Advocate Ashwini Upadhyay, which challenges the use of Aadhaar as proof of age and residence in Form 6 for fresh voter registration. The petition contends that such usage violates Section 9 of the Aadhaar Act, 2016, which expressly states that Aadhaar is not evidence of citizenship or domicile, and relies on a 2023 notification issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India clarifying that Aadhaar cannot be treated as proof of citizenship, address or date of birth. The plea seeks safeguards to prevent the use of Aadhaar beyond identity verification and raises concerns over its impact on electoral registration and other statutory processes.
Kerala High Court Pushes For Real-Time Revenue Tracking After Audit Flags Financial Irregularities In Cochin Devaswom Board
Source: Live Law
Development: The Kerala High Court directed the Cochin Devaswom Board to submit a detailed action plan to address financial irregularities flagged in the 2019–20 audit report and expedite the digitisation of its accounting systems. Observing that recurring audit objections and delays in scrutiny undermined financial transparency, the Court highlighted discrepancies including incorrect bank entries, deficiencies in account verification, unreconciled revenues and tax-related irregularities. Stressing the need for structural reforms, it called for a secure, tamper-resistant digital governance system with real-time revenue tracking, automated reconciliation, digital audit trails, procurement oversight and integrated asset and property management, and sought a comprehensive compliance report from the Board by 30th June.
Supreme Court Directs Single-Phase Tripura Village Committee Elections In Single Phase In September
Source: Live Law
Development: The Supreme Court directed that elections to the Village Committees under the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) be held in a single phase on 27th September, 2026 as proposed by the Tripura State Election Commission (TSEC). The order was passed in a writ petition filed by Pradyot Deb Burman alleging failure to conduct the long-overdue polls. The vacation bench heard Attorney General R. Venkataramani and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, both of whom favoured a single-phase poll given the monsoon and recent violence. Though the petitioner urged advancing the polls to August, the Court directed they proceed on the TSEC's schedule with no further extension, posting the matter for 9th October, 2025. The last polls were held in 2016 and the committees' term expired on 7th March, 2021, the prolonged absence of elected committees allegedly stalling development and violating Articles 243K, 243ZA and 324.
Mamata Banerjee Moves Calcutta High Court Challenging CM Suvendu Adhikari's Win in 2026 Assembly Polls
Source: LiveLaw
Development: Former West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee approached the Calcutta High Court challenging the election of Chief Minister Shri Suvendu Adhikari from the Bhabanipur Assembly constituency. The election petition was filed on 16th June, 2026 with Banerjee personally visiting the Court premises for the filing. The challenge arises from the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, in which Shri Suvendu Adhikari emerged victorious from the Bhabanipur seat. The petition alleges irregularities in the counting process, including improper counting of votes and the exclusion of Banerjee's polling agents from the counting centre, which, according to the petitioner, compromised the fairness of the electoral process.
Court Frames Charges Against Ex-TMC Leader Sheikh Shahjahan, Others In PMLA Case: ED
Source: The Hindu
Development: A Special PMLA Court framed charges against former Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Sheikh Shahjahan, his brother Sheikh Alomgir and two associates in a money laundering case prosecuted by the Enforcement Directorate. The case arises from the alleged laundering of proceeds generated through offences including extortion, land grabbing, murder, illegal fish farming and other criminal activities in Sandeshkhali, with all four accused currently in judicial custody.
Kerala High Court Reserves Verdict In PIL Against Free Bus Travel For Women, Asks If Few Affluent Beneficiaries Can Sink Entire Policy
Source: Live Law
Development: The Kerala High Court reserved its verdict on a PIL challenging the constitutional validity of the State Government’s Priyadarshini Scheme, which provides free travel for women and transgender persons in ordinary Kerala State Road Transport Corporation buses. During the hearing, the Court questioned whether the presence of a small number of affluent beneficiaries could justify striking down the entire welfare scheme. The petitioner argued that the scheme violated Articles 14 and 15 by extending benefits irrespective of economic status and without identifying a disadvantaged class, while the State defended it as a valid form of affirmative action under Article 15(3), citing similar schemes in other States and Supreme Court precedent supporting gender-based welfare measures.
Bengaluru Civil Court Directs X, Google and Meta to Block Allegedly Defamatory Content Against Pawan Kalyan
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: A Bengaluru civil court directed social media platforms X Corp, Google LLC and Meta to block allegedly defamatory content concerning Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Janasena Party president Shri Konidala Pawan Kalyan. The order arose in a suit filed by Shri Kalyan amid a social media backlash over allegations of lake land encroachment in Janwada, Telangana. Having granted an ad interim injunction on 10th June, 2026, the Court observed that modification was necessary to give effective meaning to that injunction, and accordingly extended it to cover the specific URLs and online links identified by the leader.
Supreme Court Issues Notice on Plea Alleging Punjab's Failure to Implement RTE Act EWS Admission Provisions
Development: The Supreme Court issued notice on a petition by the K.S. Raju Legal Trust alleging that Punjab has failed to implement the RTE Act, 2009, particularly the Section 12(1)(c) mandate requiring private unaided schools to reserve 25% of entry-level seats for Economically Weaker Sections and disadvantaged groups. A bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice V. Mohana directed the petitioner, appearing in person, to place concrete material demonstrating non-implementation, suggesting RTI data and a district-level study. The petitioner contended the Act had not been implemented across Punjab for 15 years, against the State's affidavit recording 476 such admissions.
Kerala Government Moves High Court to Cancel Anticipatory Bail Granted to Pinarayi Vijayan's Security Team in Nava Kerala Sadas Assault Case
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Kerala Government moved a plea before the High Court seeking cancellation of the anticipatory bail granted to five members of the security team of former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in the crime registered over the violence during the Nava Kerala Sadas programme in 2023. The Sessions Judge, Alappuzha had last week granted bail to the accused booked under Sections 294(b), 324 and 308 read with Section 34 IPC. The prosecution alleges that on 15th December, 2023, when Youth Congress and KSU members protested near the bus carrying the then Chief Minister, the accused alighted from their escort vehicle with lathis and assaulted the protesters, despite the police having the situation under control. The State contends that the Sessions Court's observation that the lathis had been surrendered was factually incorrect, as no weapon was ever surrendered or reflected in the records, and argues that custodial interrogation is needed to examine individual roles, common intention and violation of security protocols.
‘Banks Sell Loans To ARCs For Peanuts’: Supreme Court Flags Nexus Between Banks, Borrowers & Asset Reconstruction Companies
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Supreme Court raised serious concerns over the manner in which banks transfer stressed assets to Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs) at steep discounts, observing that such transactions may point to a ‘deep-rooted nexus’ between banks, borrowers and ARCs. The Court was hearing a petition concerning JKM Infra Projects Ltd., where loans amounting to over ₹ 1,537 crore, advanced by a consortium of banks led by SBI, were allegedly settled through ARC transactions for only ₹ 73.5 crore. Taking note of allegations of fund diversion and substantial losses to the public exchequer, the Court observed that public money cannot be lent and effectively written off without adequate accountability. It accordingly sought responses from the Union Ministries of Finance and Home Affairs, the Reserve Bank of India, and the Serious Fraud Investigation Office on the regulatory framework governing such transactions, and asked for an Expert Committee to be constituted to investigate such corruption and frauds.
High Court Orders Notices To Mamata, Abhishek In Contempt Case Over TMC Martyrs' Day Rally
Source: The Hindu
Development: The Calcutta High Court directed issuance of notices to former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee in a contempt petition alleging violation of its 2018 directions prohibiting complete blockage of public roads during rallies. The plea contends that the All India Trinamool Congress's 21st July, 2025 Martyrs' Day rally caused total blockage of arterial roads at Esplanade, contrary to the Court's earlier order requiring a clear passage for pedestrians and emergency vehicles.
Gauhati High Court Admits PIL on Assam's Rising Debt and Alleged AFRBM Act Violations, Cautions Against Judicial Overreach in Fiscal Matters
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Gauhati High Court admitted a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking directions to the Assam Government to strictly comply with the Assam Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act, 2005. The petition alleges persistent violations of Sections 4 to 8, contending that the State's outstanding liabilities surged by 103.34% to ₹1,46,927.84 crore as on 31st March, 2024 with the debt-to-GSDP ratio rising to 25.77%, thereby infringing Articles 14, 19 and 21 and violating Articles 202, 266 and 293. The Court further observed that the concern was correct but the forum was not and suggested that the battle could be fought politically, cautioning that Courts should not overstep their jurisdiction.
Supreme Court Seeks Delhi Police's Response On Bail Pleas Of Alleged Indian Mujahideen Operatives
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Supreme Court sought the Delhi Police's response on the bail pleas filed by alleged Indian Mujahideen operatives Mohd. Saquib Ansari and Waqar Azhar, who have remained in custody for over twelve years in connection with a terror conspiracy case relating to an alleged illegal arms and ammunition factory in Delhi. The bench observed that the principles laid down in the Court’s January 2026 decision in the Delhi riots case would govern the present case and indicated that the ruling in K.A. Najeeb, which recognised prolonged incarceration and delay in trial as grounds for bail in UAPA cases, would apply with full force subject to its interpretation in the January 2026 judgment of Gulfisha Fatima v. State. The matter arises amid the Supreme Court's ongoing reconsideration of the jurisprudence governing bail under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.
Karnataka High Court Lays Down Ten-Point Framework to Regulate Homestays, Directs State to Frame Comprehensive Policy
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Karnataka High Court called for a sweeping overhaul of how homestays are regulated across the State, urging the Tourism Department to frame comprehensive policies on safety, compliance and consumer protection. The Court observed that recurring disputes over actions against homestays indicated the need for an integrated regulatory framework, underscoring that a homestay is not merely a commercial establishment but a place where members of the public reside, so that public safety, health, hygiene, security and consumer protection assume significance. The Court has issued a ten-point framework to guide a future policy, covering fire safety, food hygiene, building and environmental compliance, guest verification, consumer protection, inter-agency coordination, and graded inspection and enforcement. The directions came in a plea challenging the summary cancellation of a Kodagu homestay's registration immediately after an FIR on a US national's complaint of sexual assault.
Madras High Court Directs IGP To File Detailed Report On Probe Into Madurai Corporation Property Tax Scam
Source: The Hindu
Development: The Madras High Court directed the Inspector General of Police, South Zone, to file a detailed status report on the investigation into the alleged ₹200 crore Madurai Corporation property tax scam, while continuing to monitor the probe. Reiterating the need for a fair and effective investigation, the Court noted that a Special Investigation Team had already been constituted under its earlier directions and posted the matter for further hearing on 3rd July.
Madhya Pradesh High Court Lifts Stay On Arrest Warrant Against TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee In Defamation Case
Source: The Hindu
Development: The Madhya Pradesh High Court vacated its interim stay on the execution of an arrest warrant issued against TMC General Secretary and MP Abhishek Banerjee in a criminal defamation case arising from allegations that he referred to former BJP MLA Shri Akash Vijayvargiya as a “goon” during a political rally in 2020. As no one appeared on behalf of the petitioner during the hearing, the Court observed that the petitioner appeared to have lost interest in pursuing the matter and directed that its order be communicated to the trial court for further proceedings.
V. Ponraj Moves Madras High Court Seeking To Quash FIR Against Him
Source: The Hindu
Development: Madras High Court adjourned the hearing on a petition filed by political commentator V. Ponraj seeking quashing of an FIR registered over allegedly derogatory remarks against women supporters of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam in a YouTube interview. The FIR, lodged on a complaint by the Minister for Energy Resources and Law R. Nirmalkumar, invokes provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Information Technology Act, 2000. Ponraj contended that the proceedings were politically motivated, the interview had already been removed before the FIR was registered, and his statements constituted protected political speech under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution.
West Bengal Government Moves Supreme Court Against Delhi High Court's Order for Premature Release of TADA Convict in 1993 Bowbazar Blast Case
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The State of West Bengal has approached the Supreme Court challenging the Delhi High Court’s order to the premature release of a life-term convict of the 1993 Bowbazar Blast case. The State's Sentence Review Board had recommended against the release of the convict, Md Rashid Khan, who was convicted under the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act. The Delhi High court in its order dated 5th June, 2026 had allowed the petition of the convict who had spent over 33 years in prison, taking into account his long incarceration, prison conduct, and the reformative philosophy underlying premature release. The High Court had observed that reformation should be the dominant objective of punishment and that during incarceration every effort should be made to recreate the good man out of a convicted prisoner.
Bombay High Court Holds Compensatory Afforestation Must Be Carried Out in the Same or Nearby Locality from Which Trees Were Felled
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Bombay High Court held that compensatory afforestation undertaken after the felling of trees for development work cannot be permitted at a distant or remote place and must instead be carried out in close proximity to the place from which the trees were originally felled. The Court heard a suo motu PIL on the felling of a large number of trees along the London Street stretch in Nagpur, where the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) had permitted private entities to cut trees on condition of compensatory plantation, but the over 10,000 trees claimed to have been planted were in distant remote areas. The Court observed that such displaced afforestation creates spatial imbalance and localised environmental degradation, noting that saplings planted far away cannot breathe for the residents of the deforested area or mitigate the loss of shade and local temperature regulation.
Supreme Court Decline Urgent Listing of Pleas Concerning NEET-UG 2026 Ahead of 21st June Retest
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Supreme Court refused to hear pleas seeking urgent hearing of issues arising out of the NEET-UG re-test scheduled for 21st June, 2026, observing that all matters concerning the examination were already listed before the bench seized of the issue and that there was no urgency. One counsel mentioned a plea concerning around 1,600 candidates, submitting that the students were under tremendous pressure and anxiety on account of rumours on social media and the previous day's Delhi High Court proceedings acknowledging paper leaks and that some candidates could not download admit cards while others were receiving cards indicating different examination centres. The Court declined to entertain or separately list the matter. The original NEET-UG 2026 examination of 3rd May, 2026 was cancelled after a guess paper was found leaked on WhatsApp and Telegram weeks earlier, and on 18th June, 2026 the Madras High Court had declined a plea seeking a Standard Operating Procedure for the fair conduct of the re-exam, holding that since the issue was already pending before the Supreme Court, it would not be appropriate to intervene.
MP High Court Reserves Verdict In Congress MLA’s Plea To Direct Speaker To Decide BJP MLA’s Pending Disqualification Petition
Source: Live Law
Development: The Madhya Pradesh High Court reserved its verdict on a petition filed by Congress MLA Umang Singhar seeking directions to the Assembly Speaker to decide the pending disqualification petition against BJP MLA Smt. Nirmala Sapre over alleged defection after she joined the BJP following her election on a Congress ticket. The petitioner relied on Supreme Court precedents prescribing a time-bound decision on disqualification petitions, while the Speaker contended that proceedings were already underway, evidence would be recorded on 30th June, and the High Court could not exercise supervisory jurisdiction over the Speaker's quasi-judicial functions.
J&K&L High Court Seeks Admin's Response On Plea Flagging Unfulfilled Commitment To Allot Land For Displaced Kashmiri Pandits' Housing Colony
Source: Live Law
Development: The Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court issued notice to the Union Territory administration on a plea alleging failure to honour a 2009 commitment made before the Supreme Court of India to allot land in Srinagar for a dedicated housing colony for displaced Kashmiri Pandits. Filed by the Displaced Kashmiri Residents Housing Cooperative Society, the petition contends that despite repeated representations, participation in the 2024 housing tender process, and a long-standing rehabilitation promise, no land has been allotted for the proposed colony intended to facilitate the dignified return and resettlement of displaced Kashmiri Pandits. The matter has been listed for further hearing on 4th August, 2026.
PIL Filed In Orissa HC Alleges Misuse Of Funds In Subhadra Yojana, Mukhyamantri Kanya Bibaha Yojana (MKBY)
Source: The New Indian Express
Development: A Public Interest Litigation has been filed before the Orissa High Court challenging the constitutional and legal validity of the Odisha Government's Subhadra Yojana and Mukhyamantri Kanya Bibaha Yojana. The petitioner contends that the schemes involve recurring expenditure without specific legislative sanction, violate the Odisha Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act, 2005, and result in unconstitutional withdrawals from the State's Consolidated Fund. Seeking discontinuation of both schemes, the PIL argues that such expenditure undermines fiscal discipline and diverts public resources from essential sectors such as health, education, irrigation and infrastructure.
CJI Takes Serious View on Complaint Alleging Supreme Court Registry Has Misplaced Files
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Chief Justice of India on 17th June, 2026 took a serious view of a complaint alleging that the Supreme Court Registry had misplaced a case file, preventing an urgent matter from being registered and listed. The Counsel had informed that the Special Leave Petition filed on 8th June, 2026 had still not been registered, the file appeared to have been misplaced at the Registry's end, and that representations had elicited no response. The Court observed that it was a very serious matter if the Registry had misplaced a file in an urgent matter, indicating it would not be content with merely directing listing but would look deeper into the inefficiency and its causes.
Bar Association of India Moves Supreme Court for Aadhaar-like National Digital Registry to Verify Advocates and Curb Fake Lawyers
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Bar Association of India (BAI) moved the Supreme Court seeking the creation of an Aadhaar-like national digital registry for lawyers to enable real-time verification of advocates' credentials and curb the rise of fake legal practitioners. The plea proposes a National Digital Registry for the Legal Profession of India (NDRLP), a centralised database assigning each advocate a unique identifier linked to verified qualifications, enrolment status and disciplinary records, contending that the existing system fragmented across 23 State Bar Councils leaves no means for a litigant, court or authority to instantly verify whether a person is genuinely enrolled. The petition also seeks directions to the Bar Council of India to frame a framework governing advocates' conduct on social media. The Court observed that it would have to consider stakeholder responses before such an exercise, remarking that the reform looks novel but that all law universities would have to be made parties and disclose their bona fide graduates.
Supreme Court Intervenes After Four Successive Punjab and Haryana High Court Benches Recuse from Dismissed Judicial Officer's Case
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Supreme Court was prompted to intervene after being told that four successive benches of the Punjab and Haryana High Court had recused themselves from hearing a former judicial officer's challenge to his dismissal from service. The Court warned of serious consequences if any attempt were made to disrupt proceedings and observed that three or four senior advocates were creating havoc and that it was closely watching the matter, indicating it would inquire into such activities and advising the counsel to argue the matter himself without engaging senior counsel. Declining to transfer the petition, the Court directed the Acting Chief Justice to constitute a two-judge division bench to hear the case, advising the nominated judges not to recuse irrespective of any situation created by anyone, and ordered that the matter be heard on a day-to-day basis from 13th July, with the Registrar General to send a compliance report once judgment is reserved.
Karnataka High Court Seeks SIT’s Response To Prajwal Revanna's Bail Plea In Nude Video Call Case
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Karnataka High Court sought the response of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) on the bail plea filed by former Hassan MP Prajwal Revanna in a case alleging that he coerced a woman into appearing nude during video calls by promising admission for her son under the MP quota. The prosecution alleges that he recorded the calls without consent, stored the images and videos, and later used them to threaten the complainant into participating in further calls. Issuing notice to the SIT, the Court directed it to file objections and posted the matter for hearing on 3rd July. Revanna is currently serving a life sentence in a separate rape case, while trials in three other sexual offence cases against him are pending.
Kerala High Court Seeks Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan's Response In Police Protection Plea By Expelled Congress Leader Simi Bell Rose John
Source: Live Law
Development: The Kerala High Court sought the response of Kerala Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan and his brother in a police protection petition filed by expelled Indian National Congress leader Simi Bell Rose John, who alleged threats to her life arising from political rivalry after she publicly accused the Chief Minister of corruption. The Court questioned the basis of her apprehension of threat, sought an explanation from the police over the delay in recording her statement despite earlier directions, and orally directed that a copy of her statement be provided to her. It also granted time until 2nd July for the respondents to file their objections.
Andhra Pradesh High Court Issues Notice On YSR Congress Party's Plea Against Blocking Of Facebook Page In India
Source: Live Law
Development: The Andhra Pradesh High Court issued notice on a petition filed by the YSR Congress Party challenging the blocking of its Facebook page in India pursuant to a notice allegedly issued by the Central Government under Section 79(3)(b) of the Information Technology Act. The party contended that the block was imposed without prior notice, hearing, or disclosure of the legal basis, and sought directions to Meta Platforms to furnish copies of all blocking communications received from Government authorities. The Court directed the Centre, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, and the Andhra Pradesh Government to file their responses.
Kerala High Court Orders Police Protection For Viral Kumbh Mela Star
Source: Live Law
Development: The Kerala High Court directed the Station House Officer of Central Police Station, Ernakulam, to provide police protection to Viral Kumbh Mela Star Monalisa Bhosle after she alleged threats to her life following her marriage to Farmaan. The Court, while hearing her writ petition, observed that a prima facie case for protection was made out and ordered adequate security pending further proceedings. Bhosle alleged that she was subjected to online hate campaigns, threats, and public intimidation after the marriage, including messages threatening to shoot her. The case arises amid earlier litigation in which the couple approached the High Court after her family opposed the marriage and a kidnapping case was registered against Farmaan.
Supreme Court Endorses Proposal For 'Young Lawyers' Professional Assistance Fund' To Support Junior Advocates
Source: Live Law
Development: The Supreme Court of India endorsed the proposal to establish a Young Lawyers' Professional Assistance Fund to financially support junior advocates during their initial years of practice, observing that economic hardship often forces talented and first-generation lawyers to leave litigation. Hearing a PIL on challenges faced by young and women advocates, the Court suggested a fund administered by High Courts or an autonomous body, supported through contributions, court fees and judicial costs, with stipends for eligible lawyers during their formative years. It also highlighted the lack of basic infrastructure for women advocates, including washrooms and bar rooms, as an issue linked to dignity under Article 21, and sought the views of the Attorney General for India and the Advocate Generals of all States and Union Territories.
Himachal Pradesh Judicial Officer Moves Supreme Court Against Collegium's High Court Judge Recommendations
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: A judicial officer from Himachal Pradesh, Arvind Malhotra, moved the Supreme Court challenging the Collegium’s recommendation to elevate three officers to the Himachal Pradesh High Court, alleging that officers junior to him were recommended in violation of his right to be fairly considered. The plea challenges the Collegium's 3rd June recommendation of Chirag Bhanu Singh, Bhupesh Sharma and Yogesh Jaswal for elevation. On being mentioned for urgent listing, the Court agreed to list the matter. The petition also relies on a 2024 Supreme Court order directing reconsideration of similar grievances raised by two Himachal Pradesh district judges whose merit and seniority had allegedly been overlooked.
II. Details of Important Cases
A. Supreme Court
Supreme Court Denies Anticipatory Bail to RTI Activist Accused of Obstructing Road Construction Work
Source: LiveLaw
Verdict: The Supreme Court denied anticipatory bail to RTI activist Rakesh Kumar Behl, accused of obstructing a public servant in connection with road construction work. The Court dismissed the plea, orally remarking that RTI activism has become a new business and that, with central funds already issued for the road, the petitioner had no standing to monitor its construction. The prosecution alleged that he and a co-accused obstructed ongoing construction, intimidated the complainant and labourers, inflicted injuries on the complainant and made caste-based derogatory remarks which led to an FIR under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 and the SC/ST Act.
Supreme Court Rejects Plea For CBI Probe Into Vijay-led TVK’s Trust Vote Win
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Supreme Court dismissed a plea seeking a Central Bureau of Investigation probe into alleged horse-trading and corruption during the 13th May Tamil Nadu Assembly trust vote that enabled the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) Government led by C. Joseph Vijay to secure a majority. Holding that the petition was based on “vague, wild and casual allegations” without reliable material, the Court refused to order any investigation despite the petitioner's claims that defections and inducements had undermined the democratic process.
Supreme Court Strikes Down Madhya Pradesh Notification Exempting Lokayukta Special Police Establishment (SPE) From RTI Act
Source: Bar and Bench, Live Law
Verdict: The Supreme Court declared illegal a 2011 notification issued by the Madhya Pradesh Government exempting the Lokayukta's Special Police Establishment (SPE) from the ambit of the Right to Information Act, 2005. The Court held that the State had failed to establish how the SPE qualified as an “intelligence and security organisation” under Section 24(4) of the RTI Act, a prerequisite for claiming exemption from the transparency regime. Upholding the Madhya Pradesh High Court's direction to disclose information sought by a police inspector facing corruption charges, the Court ruled that the blanket exemption granted through the notification dated 25th August, 2011 was excessive and contrary to the statutory scheme. The Court emphasised that exemptions under Section 24(4) must be narrowly construed and cannot be invoked without demonstrating that the concerned body performs intelligence or security functions.
Supreme Court Refuses to Entertain Writ Plea by Alleged Cyber Fraudster, CJI Surya Kant Terms Cyber Criminals ‘Parasites’
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Supreme Court refused to entertain a writ petition filed by an alleged cyber criminal accused of laundering investments, the Court calling such fraudsters ‘parasites’ who dupe innocent investors. The Court observed that it had to be harsh on cyber criminals, that society's interest lay only in keeping such persons behind bars and that such crimes were always pan-India, with money taken from victims across different states. Finding no case made out, the Court dismissed the petition at the threshold and directed the petitioner to approach the High Court. The Court has been seized of the broader cybercrime epidemic through a suo motu proceeding initiated in October 2025, in the course of which it had directed the CBI to spearhead a nationwide investigation into digital arrest scams.
Supreme Court Declares Right to Walk on Demarcated Footpaths a Fundamental Right, Holding It Takes Priority Over Motorised Movement
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Supreme Court, while addressing issues relating to pedestrian safety and the condition of public footpaths, held that the right to walk on safe and well-demarcated footpaths is a fundamental right under Articles 19(1)(d) and 21 of the Constitution. The Court observed that pedestrian rights have been consistently subordinated to motorised transport and ruled that the movement of walkers must receive priority in urban planning. It further held that urban development authorities, municipal corporations, municipalities and panchayats are responsible for the construction, maintenance and protection of footpaths.
Supreme Court Permits Himachal MLAs To Vote In Municipal Elections
Source: Economics Times
Verdict: The Supreme Court of India stayed the Himachal Pradesh High Court's 4th June interim order barring MLAs from voting in elections for presidents and vice-presidents of municipal bodies, permitting them to participate as ex officio members under Section 10(3) of the Himachal Pradesh Municipal Act, 1994. The Court observed that an interim order cannot effectively decide the main challenge to the statute and clarified that the votes cast by MLAs would remain subject to the final outcome of the pending proceedings before the High Court.
Supreme Court Directs Tamil Nadu to Surrender 151 Unfilled Super Speciality Seats to All India Quota in NEET-SS 2025
Source: LiveLaw
Verdict: The Supreme Court directed the State of Tamil Nadu to intimate the Director General of Health Services about 151 vacant super speciality medical seats so that they could be filled through the All India merit list, disposing of a writ petition seeking surrender of unfilled Doctorate of Medicine (DM) and M.Ch seats from the State Quota to the All India Quota in the ongoing NEET-SS 2025 counselling. The Division Bench passed the order after all parties agreed it could be disposed of in terms of the Court's earlier ruling in N. Karthikeyan v. State of Tamil Nadu, which permitted unfilled State seats to be filled by the Union Government on the All India merit list. The Court clarified that the order was passed in the facts of the case and would not be treated as a precedent.
B. Karnataka High Court
Karnataka High Court Dismisses PIL Challenging Constitutionality of D.K. Shivakumar's Appointment, Imposes ₹ 50,000 Costs
Source: LiveLaw
Verdict: The Karnataka High Court dismissed a public interest litigation challenging the constitutionality of the newly formed Council of Ministers headed by Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, imposing costs of ₹ 50,000 on the petitioner for what it described as a ‘publicity stunt’ and an unjustifiable use of the judiciary's time. A division bench of Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice K.S. Hemalekha heard the matter, which concerned Article 164(1A) of the Constitution governing the permissible size of a State Council of Ministers.
Karnataka High Court Quashes Case Against CM DK Shivakumar Over Morphed Image Of BJP Leaders' Protest
Source: Bar and Bench '
Verdict: The Karnataka High Court quashed criminal proceedings against Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar in a case arising from the alleged sharing of a morphed image of a BJP protest over the arrest of Kar Sevak Srikanth Pujari. The complaint alleged that the edited image, which altered the text on protesters’ placards, promoted enmity between communities and amounted to the use of a false document. The Court set aside the proceedings initiated by a Bengaluru Special Court after Shivakumar argued that the post had been uploaded by the party's social media team and that no material established his personal criminal liability for the publication.
C. Madras High Court
Madras High Court Dismisses Poll Affidavit Challenges Against CM Vijay, Udhayanidhi Stalin And Smt. Tamilisai Soundararajan
Source: Bar and Bench, Live Law
Verdict: The Madras High Court dismissed a batch of petitions seeking scrutiny of alleged discrepancies in the election affidavits filed by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and TVK chief Vijay, DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin and BJP leader Smt. Tamilisai Soundararajan during the 2026 Assembly elections. The pleas had sought investigations into inconsistencies in asset and income disclosures made in Form 26 affidavits and had earlier prompted the Court to seek responses from the Election Commission of India, the Income Tax Department and other authorities. However, the Court declined to entertain the challenges and refused to order any probe into the alleged irregularities.
Madras High Court Dismisses Plea To Ensure Only Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists Contest From Constituencies Earmarked For SC Category
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Madras High Court dismissed a plea seeking directions to restrict candidature from Scheduled Caste reserved constituencies to persons professing Hinduism, Sikhism or Buddhism, holding that it cannot interfere with or micro-manage the electoral process under Article 226. The Court observed that the existing statutory framework and Election Commission guidelines adequately empower Returning Officers to scrutinise eligibility, and any dispute regarding false declarations or disqualification must be raised through an election petition after the election.
Madras High Court Declines Plea Seeking SOP To Ensure Fair Conduct Of NEET Re-Exam, Cites Pending Supreme Court Proceedings
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Madras High Court dismissed a plea seeking a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to ensure a fair, transparent and uninterrupted conduct of the NEET UG 2026 Re-Examination, holding that the issues were already pending before the Supreme Court of India. The Court declined to issue directions for fresh guidelines or invigilator protocols, noting that the Supreme Court was already examining the legality of the re-examination and the measures adopted by the National Testing Agency following the cancellation of the original exam over the alleged paper leak.
D. Bombay High Court
Bombay High Court Upholds Restriction On The New Indian Express' Use Of Brand Outside Southern States
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Bombay High Court upheld a single-judge order restraining Express Publications (Madurai) Pvt. Ltd., publisher of The New Indian Express, from using the “New Indian Express” mark outside the territories allotted to it under the 1995 Memorandum of Settlement and the 2005 supplemental agreement following the split in the Indian Express Group. Dismissing the appeal, the Court held that The Indian Express retained exclusive ownership of the “Indian Express” trademark, while Express Publications Madurai enjoyed only a limited right to use the derivative mark in specified southern States and Union Territories. The Court ruled that events such as “New Indian Express – Mumbai Dialogues” violated the binding consent decree and rejected claims of independent trademark rights over the “New Indian Express” mark.
Bombay High Court Dismisses MSWA Appeal Against WFI De-Affiliation
Source: The Hindu
Verdict: The Bombay High Court dismissed the appeal filed by the Maharashtra State Wrestling Association (MSWA) against its de-affiliation by the Wrestling Federation of India, thereby upholding the Wrestling Federation of India’s (WFI) decision to recognise the Maharashtra Rajya Kustigir Sangh as its affiliated state body. The dispute arose after the WFI de-affiliated the Maharashtra State Wrestling Association (MSWA) in January 2023, with the association alleging that the decision was arbitrary and taken by the Oversight Committee instead of the Executive Committee. Rejecting these contentions, the Court found no merit in the challenge and affirmed the de-affiliation.
E. Delhi High Court
Delhi High Court Upholds Centre’s Temporary Ban Of Telegram App Ahead Of NEET-UG Exam
Development: The Delhi High Court upheld the Central Government’s temporary ban on Telegram until 22nd June and the suspension of its message-editing feature until 30th June, imposed to prevent misinformation and alleged paper leak claims ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination. Rejecting Telegram's challenge, the Court held that the Centre had lawfully exercised its powers under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000 and had followed the prescribed emergency procedure. It observed that Telegram's architecture, including public channels, bots, anonymity features and unlimited message editing, could facilitate rapid dissemination and manipulation of misleading content. The Court held that the restrictions were temporary, proportionate, narrowly tailored to the objective, and constituted the least restrictive measure available in the circumstances.
Election Commission's Ban On Political Advertisements In Delhi Metro During Model Code Valid: Delhi High Court
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Delhi High Court upheld the Election Commission of India’s directions prohibiting political advertisements in Delhi Metro Rail Corporation trains and stations during the operation of the Model Code of Conduct. Dismissing appeals filed by advertising agencies, the Court held that the restriction is a reasonable and time-bound measure to ensure free and fair elections, and does not violate their rights under Articles 14 and 19 of the Constitution since non-political advertisements remain permissible. The Court also rejected the argument that the ban was discriminatory because political advertisements were allowed at bus shelters, observing that metro premises are Government-owned public spaces and the classification was therefore reasonable.
F. Kerala High Court
Kerala High Court Upholds Conviction and 20-Year Sentence of Madrasa Teacher for Sexual Assault of 9-Year-Old Student
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Kerala High Court upheld the conviction and 20-year prison sentence imposed on a Madrasa teacher for the sexual assault of a nine year-old student. The Court dismissed the accused's appeal against a 2023 judgment of the Special POCSO Court, which had found him guilty under the POCSO Act, 2012, Section 377 IPC and the Juvenile Justice Act, including a sentence of 20 years' rigorous imprisonment for aggravated penetrative sexual assault. Rejecting the accused's contention that the case was fabricated at the instance of rival sects within the Muslim community and that the trial court had erred in relying on the child's sole testimony, the Court observed that the child's testimony remained consistent throughout, was corroborated by surrounding circumstances and other witnesses, and that no convincing evidence of sectarianism or false implication had been produced, holding the child to be a trustworthy witness.
G. Other Courts & Tribunals
Mumbai Court Acquits Ex-Minister Padamsinh Patil, 7 Others In Congress Leader Pavanraje Nimbalkar Murder Case
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: A Special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Court in Mumbai acquitted former Maharashtra Minister Padamsinh Patil and seven others in the 2006 murder case of Congress leader Pavanraje Nimbalkar and his driver, holding that the prosecution failed to establish the alleged conspiracy beyond reasonable doubt. The CBI had alleged that the murders were orchestrated by Patil over political rivalry and disputes concerning the management of the Terna Sugar Factory, relying primarily on the testimony of an approver. The Court found that the chain of circumstantial evidence was incomplete, while several prosecution witnesses had turned hostile during the trial, leading to the acquittal of all remaining accused.
This week’s judicial developments reflected the courts’ continued engagement with questions at the intersection of constitutional rights, governance, accountability, and institutional reform. From challenges to legislative measures and electoral processes to scrutiny of public administration and welfare policies, courts across jurisdictions addressed issues with significant legal and public policy implications.
Notable themes included transparency in public institutions, the scope of executive power, electoral integrity, digital governance, and the protection of individual rights. At the same time, several proceedings highlighted the judiciary’s role in ensuring procedural fairness and institutional accountability while balancing competing constitutional interests.
Taken together, the developments covered in this edition provide a comprehensive view of the legal questions currently shaping India’s governance landscape and offer insight into the evolving direction of judicial oversight across the country.
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