This edition of Indian Judiciary Watch brings together the most significant legal developments and judicial pronouncements delivered between 1st and 7th June 2026. Beyond the immediate legal questions before the courts, many of these proceedings carry wider implications for governance, political strategy, regulatory frameworks, and institutional functioning. The Supreme Court's interventions on matters such as electoral transparency, menstrual hygiene, disability rights, and the use of AI in courts reflect the judiciary's continuing role in shaping public policy outcomes, while important High Court proceedings highlight evolving debates around federalism, accountability, civil liberties, and administrative decision-making.
I. Key Legal Developments
Supreme Court Questions Legal Basis For Court Fee Exemption To Waqf Institutions Before Waqf Tribunals
Source: Live Law
Development: The Supreme Court has questioned the legal basis for exempting waqf institutions from payment of court fees in proceedings before State Waqf Tribunals while hearing a challenge to a Gujarat High Court judgment that upheld the rejection of waqf suits for non-payment of court fees. A bench of Judges asked the petitioners to point out the statutory provision permitting such an exemption, observing that court fee waivers cannot be claimed without legal backing. The petitioners sought time to file additional pleas challenging the Gujarat High Court’s December 2025 ruling, which held that waqf institutions are not entitled to any blanket exemption from court fees in proceedings under Section 83 of the Waqf Act. Granting time, the Supreme Court listed the matter for further hearing on 7th August, 2026.
Supreme Court Declines Plea To Conduct NEET-UG 2026 Re-Test In Computer-Based Mode
Source: Live Law
Development: The Supreme Court has declined to direct the National Testing Agency (NTA) to conduct the NEET-UG 2026 re-test through a Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode instead of the existing pen-and-paper format. The bench observed that similar pleas had been rejected earlier and expressed unwillingness to interfere at a stage when authorities were already managing the re-conduct of the examination following its cancellation due to a paper leak. The petition, filed by RJD MP Sudhakar Singh, sought a transition to CBT mode and broader reforms in the examination system. The Court adjourned the matter to July and tagged it with other pending petitions seeking reforms in the functioning of the NTA.
West Bengal SIR: Congress Leader Moves Supreme Court Seeking Disclosure Of Voter Additions, Deletions Data
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: Congress leader Prasenjit Bose has approached the Supreme Court seeking greater transparency in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal. The plea seeks directions to the Election Commission of India to disclose constituency-wise data on Form 6 (voter inclusion) and Form 7 (voter deletion) applications, including the number of applications filed, accepted, and rejected. It also seeks publication of the Standard Operating Procedure governing appeals before SIR Appellate Tribunals and simplified appeal guidelines in Bengali, Hindi, and English. According to the petition, greater disclosure of data and appellate procedure would facilitate transparency and assist electors in understanding and availing remedies available under the SIR framework. The matter comes shortly after the Supreme Court upheld the legality of the Bihar SIR process while emphasising procedural safeguards against arbitrary voter exclusion.
Supreme Court Seeks Union's Response On Plea For Stronger Enforcement Of Disability Rights Framework
Source: Live Law
Development: The Supreme Court has issued notice to the Union Government on a PIL seeking stronger enforcement of recommendations made by the Chief Commissioner and State Commissioners for Persons with Disabilities under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. The petition alleges widespread non-compliance with commissioners’ recommendations, inadequate use of statutory penalty provisions, vacancies in key posts, lack of advisory committees, and insufficient funding and infrastructure for disability commissions. A Bench of Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Prasanna B. Varale has listed the matter for hearing on July 21, 2026.
Manipur High Court Seeks Action Taken Report On Abduction Of Six Naga Villagers
Source: Times of India
Development: The Manipur High Court has directed the State Government to file an Action Taken Report (ATR) on the alleged abduction of six Naga villagers from Leilon Vaiphei village in Kangpokpi district, whose whereabouts remain unknown since 13th May 2026. The direction was issued while hearing a PIL seeking urgent intervention for their safe release. The Court sought details of all steps taken by authorities to trace the missing persons and address concerns regarding the progress of the investigation. During the hearing, it was also brought to the Court's notice that while the State Government had reportedly informed the United Naga Council that the matter was being investigated by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), the Deputy Solicitor General stated that the agency had not received any intimation from the State regarding the case. The matter is scheduled for further consideration upon submission of the ATR.
NSUI Moves Delhi High Court Over Alleged Irregularities In CBSE’s On-Screen Marking System
Development: The National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) has approached the Delhi High Court through a PIL alleging widespread irregularities and technical glitches in the Central Board of Secondary Education’s (CBSE) On-Screen Marking (OSM) system affecting Class 12 students. The plea seeks compensatory marks for students whose answer scripts were allegedly missing, blurred, incompletely uploaded or incorrectly evaluated, along with an independent inquiry into the functioning of the OSM system. It also seeks directions for manual rechecking and physical verification of answer sheets in disputed cases and requests that the verification and re-evaluation portal remain open for an additional month to enable affected students to avail remedies. The petition has been filed by NSUI President Vinod Jhakhar through advocates Rishav Ranjan and Ajay Chhikara.
Supreme Court Pulls Up Odisha Government Over Lack Of Clarity In ACP-RACP Dispute
Source: X
Development: The Supreme Court expressed dissatisfaction with the Odisha Government's submissions in a dispute concerning the Assured Career Progression (ACP) and Revised Assured Career Progression (RACP) schemes, observing that the Advocate General was unable to explain the controversy despite arguing for over an hour. Recording the difficulty in understanding the State's stand, the Court noted that it remained unclear how benefits available under the ACP Scheme differed from those under the RACP Scheme and whether pay scales and grade pay had merged after the implementation of the Orissa Revised Scales of Pay Rules, 2008. The Bench granted the State one final opportunity to place a comparative chart and clarify its position. The Court also took note of the employees' contention that similarly situated beneficiaries had already been granted RACP benefits in other cases and that several identical challenges filed by the State had either been dismissed or not pursued further.
Punjab & Haryana High Court Seeks State Reply On Plea Against Meat Ban In Amritsar Walled City
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Punjab and Haryana High Court has sought a response from the Punjab Government on a petition challenging the ban on the sale of meat, fish and meat products in the Walled City of Amritsar. The plea, filed by a wholesale fish and meat trader, contends that the notification declaring the area a “Holy City” lacks statutory backing, creates an unconstitutional religion-based territorial classification, and imposes an arbitrary restriction on the fundamental right to carry on a lawful trade. It was further argued that the prohibition is discriminatory as it bans meat sales within the Walled City while permitting identical activities elsewhere in Amritsar, without any intelligible differentia, and adversely affects traders, consumers and tourists. The petitioner also alleged that authorities forcibly sealed meat and fish establishments pursuant to the notification and highlighted the absence of any rehabilitation mechanism for those dependent on the trade.
Varanasi Court Reserves Verdict In Plea Against Rahul Gandhi Over Alleged Remarks On Lord Ram
Source: Jagran
Development: A Varanasi Special MP/MLA Court has reserved its verdict on a revision petition concerning alleged remarks made by Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi about Lord Ram during an interaction at Brown University in the United States. The court noted that despite issuance of three notices, neither Rahul Gandhi nor any counsel appeared before it or filed a response. Expressing displeasure over the absence, the Court observed that it would take cognizance of the notices issued and reserved orders after concluding the hearing. The revision petition challenges the dismissal of a complaint filed by advocate Harishankar Pandey, who alleges that Rahul Gandhi and the Congress Party are consistently insulting Hindus by making absurd statements about Lord Ram’s incarnations and great symbols of Sanatan Dharma.
Karnataka High Court Directs Centre To Be Impleaded In Challenge To Minimum Wage Revision Notification
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Karnataka High Court, while hearing a challenge by the Karnataka Employers' Association to the State Government’s 22nd May 2026 notification revising minimum wages for scheduled employments, has directed that the Union Government be impleaded as a party to the proceedings. The petition contends that the notification is legally unsustainable as it was issued under the Minimum Wages Act, 1948, which stands repealed following the enactment of the Code on Wages, 2019. The employers have further argued that the proposed wage increase of up to 60% would impose a significant financial burden and that a uniform revision across industries is contrary to the new labour law framework. Observing that the petition relies substantially on central labour legislation, the Court held that the Centre's stand is necessary before considering any interim relief and issued notice in the matter.
People Will Obey Laws Only If Punishment Like Chopping Hands And Legs Is Imposed: Karnataka HC
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Karnataka High Court, while hearing the bail plea of a rape accused in a case involving an engineering student from Manipal Institute of Technology, refused to grant immediate relief. Justice R. Nataraj made strong oral observations that people increasingly commit crimes without fear because offenders are not dealt with firmly enough, remarking that only punishments like chopping of hands and legs, as practised in some Middle Eastern countries, would restore genuine deterrence. The Court issued notice to the State and posted the matter for further hearing on 8th June, declining bail at this stage.
Kerala MSC Elsa 3 Case: Kerala High Court Questions Delay In Probe, Says Foreign Crew's Liberty Cannot Be Curtailed Indefinitely
Source: Live Law
Development: The Kerala High Court has questioned the delay in the ongoing inquiry into the sinking of the Liberian-flagged vessel MSC Elsa 3, observing that the liberty of the foreign crew members cannot be indefinitely restricted merely because they are foreigners. While hearing a plea by the ship's captain and six crew members seeking permission to return to their home countries, Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas remarked that prolonged investigations cannot justify compelling individuals to remain in India for over a year. The Court noted that a criminal investigation has already resulted in a final report and highlighted existing international guidelines on the fair treatment of seafarers involved in maritime accidents. Expressing concern over the mental and personal hardship faced by the crew, the Court sought clarification from the authorities regarding the status and timeline of the pending inquiry by the Directorate General of Shipping.
‘Eye Witnesses Turned Hostile’: Vijay Kulkarni Tells Karnataka High Court In Plea Against Conviction, Life Term In Yogesh Gouda Murder Case
Source: Live Law
Development: The Karnataka High Court heard appeals filed by former Congress MLA Vijay Kulkarni and other convicts challenging their conviction and life imprisonment in the 2016 murder of BJP leader and Zilla Panchayat member Yogesh Goudar. Arguing before the Court, Kulkarni contended that the trial court's conviction was based on extraneous considerations, stressing that none of the original eyewitnesses had supported the prosecution case during the initial trial. He further challenged the legality of the transfer of investigation from the State Police to the CBI and pointed out that six of the seven alleged eyewitnesses later turned hostile. Questioning the credibility of the sole eyewitness relied upon by the prosecution, Kulkarni argued that her presence at the scene was doubtful and unsupported by other evidence.
TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee’s Parents Move Calcutta High Court Against KMC Notice Alleging Unauthorised Construction At Residence
Source: Live Law
Development: The parents of TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee have moved the Calcutta High Court seeking to quash a notice issued by the Kolkata Municipal Corporation alleging unauthorised construction at their residence in south Kolkata. Petitioners Amit Banerjee and Lata Banerjee contended that the property at Harish Chatterjee Street was constructed in accordance with law and that the civic body’s notice under Section 400(1) of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation Act was unwarranted. The plea challenges the municipal proceedings initiated over alleged deviations from sanctioned plans and seeks protection from further action. The matter is scheduled to be heard by the vacation bench of Justice Smita Das De, against the backdrop of similar notices reportedly issued by the KMC concerning other properties allegedly linked to Abhishek Banerjee and his family.
High Court Rejects Centre's Appeal Against Order In Pleas Challenging 'Kerala Story 2' Movie Certification, Keeps Maintainability Issue Open
Source: Live Law
Development: The Kerala High Court dismissed as infructuous the appeals filed by the Union Government, Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and the producer of the film Kerala Story 2 goes Beyond challenging a Single Judge’s interim order on maintainability. A Division Bench noted that since the main writ petitions opposing the film’s certification had already been dismissed by the Single Judge earlier this week, the appeals no longer survived. However, the Court left open the larger question of law on whether private individuals can challenge a film’s certification through writ petitions, on the ground that it brings disrepute to a State.
Calcutta High Court Allows TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee To Move Plea Seeking Protection From Coercive Action In MLA Signature Forgery Probe
Source: Live Law
Development: The Calcutta High Court permitted TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee to file a petition seeking protection from coercive action in connection with the West Bengal CID's investigation into the alleged forgery of signatures of several MLAs on a document submitted to the Assembly Secretariat. The plea was mentioned before a vacation bench after the CID issued a summons requiring Banerjee's appearance in the ongoing probe. Banerjee had earlier stated that he would cooperate with the investigation but subsequently did not appear, citing medical grounds after allegedly being attacked by a mob. The matter concerns allegations relating to forged signatures on a document connected with support for the post of Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly.
Supreme Court Forms High-Powered Expert Panel To Re-Examine Aravalli Definition
Source: The Hindu
Development: The Supreme Court constituted a high-powered expert committee headed by the Director General of the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) to independently review the Centre's report on the definition and delineation of the Aravalli hill range. The Court directed the committee to examine key issues, including whether restricting the Aravalli definition to hills located within 500 metres of each other would unduly reduce protected areas and facilitate mining activities, and whether hills above 100 metres in elevation should be treated as a continuous ecological formation even when separated by larger gaps. The committee has also been asked to assess the scientific accuracy of findings that only 1,048 out of Rajasthan's 12,081 hills satisfy the 100-metre criterion. The panel has been directed to submit its report by August 31, 2026.
Kerala High Court Directs State To Inform On Steps Taken In FIR Over 'Attack' On ED Officials After Search At Ex-CM Pinarayi Vijayan's Home
Source: Live Law
Development: The Kerala High Court directed the State Government to file an affidavit detailing the steps taken in the investigation of the FIR registered over the alleged attack on Enforcement Directorate officials following search operations conducted at former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s residence and his daughter’s premises on 27th May 2026. While hearing a PIL seeking a CBI probe, the Court observed that it was premature to assume that the State police would not conduct a fair investigation and reiterated that transfer of investigation to the CBI can be ordered only in rare and exceptional circumstances. The petitioner alleged slow progress in the probe, pointing out that only a few arrests had been made despite the FIR naming around 300 persons.
CBI Gets Custody Of Former Reliance Group MD Amitabh Jhunjhunwala In ₹2,000 Crore Loan Fraud Probe
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: A Special CBI Court in Mumbai has remanded former Reliance Group Managing Director Amitabh Jhunjhunwala to CBI custody till 5th June 2026 in connection with an alleged ₹2,000 crore bank loan fraud case. The investigation concerns allegations that loan funds sanctioned by a consortium of banks to Reliance Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group linked entities were diverted through shell companies. Jhunjhunwala, who is already in judicial custody in a related ED money laundering case, was formally arrested by the CBI after being produced from Tihar Jail pursuant to a transit production warrant. The agency has stated that its investigation against him remains ongoing.
Twisha Sharma Dowry Death Case: Ex-Judge Giribala Singh Sent To 14-Day Judicial Custody
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: A Bhopal court has remanded former judge Giribala Singh to 14-day judicial custody in connection with the alleged dowry death of her daughter-in-law, Twisha Sharma. Giribala Singh and her son, Samarth Singh, were arrested by the CBI following allegations of persistent domestic violence and dowry-related harassment. The court passed the order after the CBI chose not to seek an extension of custodial interrogation. Earlier, the Madhya Pradesh High Court had cancelled Giribala Singh’s anticipatory bail, observing the seriousness of the allegations under investigation.
‘Speak Without Venom’: Karnataka High Court Tells Activist Dr Prabhakar Bhat Over Alleged Comments On Muslim Women
Source: Live Law
Development: The Karnataka High Court, while hearing a plea by right-wing activist Dr. Prabhakar Bhat Kalladka seeking quashing of an FIR over alleged communal remarks against Muslim women, advised him to exercise restraint in his public speeches. Referring to repeated complaints arising from his speeches, Justice M. Nagaprasanna orally remarked that he should “speak without venom” and avoid making statements that give rise to further disputes. The FIR stems from a speech delivered during a Deepotsava programme in October 2025, where Bhat allegedly commented on Muslim birth rates and urged Hindus to have more children, remarks which the complainant claimed promoted religious enmity, insulted women's dignity and disturbed public peace.
Supreme Court Publishes Draft Regulations On AI Use In Judiciary, Invites Feedback
Source: Live Law
Development: The Supreme Court published draft “Regulations for Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Courts, 2026” and invited comments and suggestions from stakeholders and the public by 20th June, 2026. The draft framework seeks to regulate the use of AI across the Supreme Court, High Courts, tribunals and other adjudicatory bodies, while ensuring that AI remains only an assistive tool and does not replace human judicial decision making. The proposed regulations permit AI for functions such as case management, scheduling, transcription, translation, legal research, citation verification and administrative tasks, but expressly prohibit its use for adjudication, risk assessment, bail decisions, witness credibility evaluation or prediction of judicial outcomes. The draft also proposes the creation of an Apex Body at the Supreme Court to oversee AI adoption, governance, audits and policy development in the judiciary.
Menstrual Hygiene Right Must Be Made 'Meaningful And Workable' : Supreme Court Tells Union & States
Source: Live Law
Development: The Supreme Court directed the Union Government to address deficiencies in the implementation of its earlier directions on menstrual hygiene management in schools, reiterating that menstrual hygiene is a fundamental right flowing from Article 21 of the Constitution. While taking note of compliance reports filed by the Union, States and Union Territories, the Court observed that merely recognising the right is insufficient unless it is effectively implemented on the ground. The Court asked the Centre to examine issues highlighted by the petitioner regarding inadequate infrastructure, lack of budget allocation, and non-functional girls’ toilets in schools, and warned that any laxity in compliance would be viewed strictly. It further directed the Union to continue monitoring States and UTs, collect periodic compliance data, and submit progress reports every three months to ensure that the right to menstrual hygiene is made meaningful and workable in practice.
Delhi Police Seeks Transfer Of Devangana Kalita’s Delhi Riots Case From Judge Who Reserved Verdict
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Delhi Police has urged the Delhi High Court to transfer a petition filed by Delhi riots accused Devangana Kalita from the Bench of Justice Neena Bansal Krishna, pointing out that the matter has remained pending since the judgment was reserved on 8 January 2026. The Police submitted that the Court had earlier restrained the trial court from passing a final order on charges and that the continued pendency of the reserved judgment is delaying proceedings in the larger Delhi riots conspiracy case. Taking note of the submission, Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya stated that he would examine the issue on the administrative side. The matter arises from Kalita’s plea seeking access to video recordings and WhatsApp communications relied upon by the prosecution in the Delhi riots conspiracy case.
Madras High Court Restrains Vigilance Action Against Ex-Minister KN Nehru, Others In Bribery FIR Till 23rd June
Source: Live Law
Development: The Madras High Court restrained the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) from taking any further action against former Tamil Nadu Minister K.N. Nehru and other accused persons named in an FIR relating to alleged bribery in public appointments, till the next date of hearing on 23rd June 2026. The interim protection was granted while the Court considered petitions challenging the FIR. The petitioners contended that the prosecution was arbitrary, selective, and legally unsustainable, and sought quashing of the proceedings. The matter arises from allegations concerning a purported cash-for-job scheme during the previous DMK administration.
Malviya Nagar Fire: Delhi Court Remands Hotel Owner To 4-Days Police Custody
Source: Live Law
Development: A Delhi Court remanded Lavkesh Bajaj, owner of the hotel building where a major fire in Malviya Nagar claimed 21 lives, to four days of police custody. The Court allowed Delhi Police’s request for custodial interrogation, observing orally that the arrest was legal, while noting that further investigation, including examination of hotel staff, was still underway. Bajaj had challenged the legality of his arrest, alleging that the FIR and grounds of arrest were not supplied to him. The incident involved a hotel allegedly operating without a fire NOC, with more than 20 rooms despite approval for only six, and having only a single entry-exit point.
Allahabad High Court Stays Arrest Of News24 Journalist Accused Of Promoting Enmity, Defaming Municipal Corp Over X Post
Source: Live Law
Development: The Allahabad High Court granted interim protection from arrest to News24 journalist Shahnawaz in connection with an FIR registered in Moradabad over an X post allegedly defaming the Municipal Corporation and promoting enmity. The Court directed that no coercive action be taken against him till the next date of hearing, subject to his cooperation with the investigation. The FIR was lodged under Section 352(2) of the BNS based on a viral CCTV video showing a sanitation worker allegedly scattering garbage, which Shahnawaz had reposted on X. The petitioner contended that he had merely shared content already available in the public domain and was not the original creator of the video.
'Corruption Of Mind & Purse': Allahabad HC Tells UP CM Time Has Come To Make Top Bureaucrats Criminally Liable; Here's Why
Source: Live Law
Development: The Allahabad High Court urged the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister to consider adopting the doctrine of “superior responsibility”, under which senior bureaucrats and administrative heads may be held accountable, and in appropriate cases criminally liable, for the acts and omissions of their subordinates. The Court observed that institutional failures are often driven by “corruption of the mind” and “corruption of the purse”, and noted that criminal liability may extend to failures resulting in corruption, fraud, suppression of records, and non-implementation of government policies. The observations were made in the context of prolonged delays in investigation of corruption-related FIRs and non-compliance with earlier directions regarding a High-Powered Committee to monitor such cases.
Proposed Eviction At Malayodamthuruthu: Kerala High Court Grants State 2 Weeks For Resolution, Restrains Munsiff Court From Passing Orders
Source: Live Law
Development: The Kerala High Court granted the State Government two additional weeks, until 16th June, to facilitate a peaceful resolution of the dispute concerning the proposed eviction of families residing in Malayodamthuruthu in Ernakulam district. The High Court clarified that its earlier orders only granted the State additional time and did not permit immediate execution of the eviction decree. Observing that the Munsiff Court had acted under a mistaken understanding by ordering execution with police assistance, the Court directed that no further proceedings be undertaken during the extended period. The dispute traces its origins to title suits instituted in 1984 by late Sankaran Nair, which culminated in decrees in his favour that were ultimately upheld by the Supreme Court. While execution proceedings were initiated thereafter, difficulties in implementing the decree led to further litigation, with the State seeking time to explore a negotiated settlement amid assurances of support to the families residing in the area.
NGT Lacks Jurisdiction To Deal With Coastal Aquaculture Units, Rules Madras High Court
Source: The Hindu
Development: The Madras High Court held that the National Green Tribunal (NGT) lacks jurisdiction to adjudicate environmental issues concerning coastal shrimp hatcheries regulated under the Coastal Aquaculture Authority Act, 2005, as the Act is not one of the scheduled enactments under the NGT Act, 2010. Accordingly, the Court set aside the NGT's 29th September 2022 suo motu order which had directed shrimp hatcheries to obtain CRZ clearances and imposed environmental liability without hearing the affected parties. The case arose from writ petitions filed by shrimp hatcheries located in Chennai and Villupuram challenging the NGT's exercise of jurisdiction and the directions issued against them.
Rajya Sabha Election Bribery Row Case: Accused Challenging FIR Tells Karnataka High Court
Source: Live Law
Development: The Karnataka High Court has granted interim relief to four persons, including a lawyer and businessmen from Odisha, accused of attempting to bribe Congress MLAs during the March 2026 Rajya Sabha elections in Odisha. The petitioners approached the court seeking quashing of the FIR, arguing that the allegations at the highest attract only non-cognisable offences. They contended that the police wrongly invoked the serious cognisable Section 140(1) of the BNS which deals with the offense of kidnapping with intent to murder, to effect their arrest and later deleted it. Justice M. Nagaprasanna heard the matter and has continued the interim stay on further investigation. The court has listed the case for further hearing on 17th June 2026.
“You May Arrest, But You Cannot Humiliate”: Calcutta High Court Orally Remarks On Police Parading Accused With Ropes Around Waists
Source: Live Law
Development: The Calcutta High Court expressed serious concern over the alleged practice of police parading accused persons in public with ropes tied around their waists, observing that while the State has the power to arrest and prosecute individuals, it cannot subject them to humiliation. The Court orally remarked that “you may arrest them, you may prosecute them, but you cannot humiliate them,” and emphasised that measures taken to secure the presence of an accused must not violate their dignity. Taking note of allegations that some accused persons were paraded with ropes and even in a partially undressed condition, the Court directed the State to file affidavits explaining the circumstances and manner in which such methods were employed.
Supreme Court Stays Deportation Of Woman Declared Foreigner Over “Misspelling”, Seeks Centre’s Reply
Source: NDTV
Development: The Supreme Court granted interim protection to four Assam women, including Sarbhanu Begum and Saleha Khatun, who had been declared foreigners by Foreigners' Tribunals and detained in the Goalpara Detention Centre. The Division bench of Justices Vikram Nath and V. Mohana issued notice to the Union Government, Assam Government and Election Commission, directed maintenance of status quo, and stayed their deportation until further hearing. The petitioners contend that they are Indian citizens whose claims were rejected mainly due to minor discrepancies in spelling, age and family particulars in official records despite producing NRC legacy data, electoral rolls, linkage certificates and witness testimony supporting their citizenship.
Plea To Quash G.O. Imposing Minimal Punishment On Offenders Carrying Out Illegal Mining
Source: The Hindu
Development: The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court issued notice to the Tamil Nadu Government on a PIL challenging a January 2026 Government Order that allegedly diluted penalties for illegal mining and quarrying activities. The petitioner, Abdul Kalam Science Farmers People Security Association, contended that the G.O., issued following representations from stone quarry, crusher and lorry owners’ associations, effectively functions as a one-time regularisation scheme for offenders instead of acting as a deterrent. It was argued that while existing law prescribes imprisonment of up to five years or a fine of up to ₹5 lakh per hectare, the G.O. imposes only a nominal penalty of ₹25 per metric tonne and even permits payment through instalments, with only 20% payable upfront.
High Court Junks Contempt Plea, Upholds Right Of Press To Report On Court Order Before It’s Signed By Judge
Source: The Print
Development: The Punjab and Haryana High Court dismissed criminal contempt proceedings against the editors and reporters of The Tribune, Hindustan Times and The Times of India, holding that fair and accurate reporting of a court order pronounced in open court cannot amount to contempt merely because the order had not yet been signed by the judge. The Division Bench of Justices Jasgurpreet Singh Puri and Amarjot Bhatti found that the newspapers had correctly reported the transfer of the Kotkapura police firing cases from Faridkot to Chandigarh and were protected under Section 4 of the Contempt of Courts Act, 1971. Further, the Court held that a judgment becomes operative upon pronouncement in open court, while signing is only a procedural formality.
Delhi Riots: High Court Vacates Interim Order Restraining Trial Court From Passing Final Orders On Framing Of Charge
Source: Live Law
Development: The Delhi High Court vacated its September 2024 interim order that had restrained the trial court from passing final orders on framing of charges in the UAPA case concerning the alleged larger conspiracy behind the 2020 North-East Delhi riots. Justice Neena Bansal Krishna passed the order while dismissing accused Devangana Kalita’s plea seeking access to certain protest videos and WhatsApp group chats allegedly collected by the Delhi Police. The Court allowed Kalita's separate application seeking inspection of unreliable documents kept in the malkhana.
Supreme Court Takes Serious View Of Loss Of Records In 19 Year Gujarat Police Case, Seeks Action Against Errant Officers
Source: Live Law
Development: The Supreme Court took serious exception to the loss of investigation records in a 19-year-old Gujarat criminal case involving allegations of forgery and property fraud, observing that such incidents strike at the core of the criminal justice system and render genuine complaints ineffective. Criticising both the Gujarat Police for failing to conclude the investigation and the High Court for not intervening despite prolonged delays, the Court directed the police to complete the investigation within six weeks and submit a comprehensive report before the JMFC, Bhiloda. The Court also ordered the State Government to disclose the action taken against the officer responsible for the loss of records and explain the failure to inform the Magistrate about the inability to reconstruct the case papers or trace witnesses.
Karnataka High Court Asks Law College To Accept Application Of Transgender Student Claiming Absence Of Gender Option In Admission Form
Source: Live Law
Development: The Karnataka High Court directed Seshadripuram Law College to accept the admission application of a transgender student who claimed that the form did not contain a transgender gender option, observing that the applicant could mention “transgender” in the gender column even if only male and female options were provided. The Court also directed BMS College of Law to provisionally issue an application form to the student despite its objection based on age criteria. The directions were passed in proceedings arising from a transgender student’s plea seeking implementation of the Karnataka Transgender Policy, 2017 and reservation benefits in law college admissions, with the Court ensuring that procedural deficiencies in admission forms do not deprive transgender persons of educational opportunities.
Delhi High Court Declines Urgent Hearing In Plea Against Cockroach Janta Party’s 6th June Protest
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Delhi High Court declined to grant an urgent hearing on a PIL filed by the NGO Save India Foundation seeking preventive and crowd-control measures against a proposed 6th June protest at Jantar Mantar organised by the “Cockroach Janta Party” (CJP). The Division bench of Justices Saurabh Banerjee and Amit Sharma refused to list the matter urgently despite the petitioner's apprehensions regarding law and order concerns and alleged anti-government messaging associated with the protest. The plea had sought restrictions on the gathering, enhanced security measures at key entry points in Delhi, and relocation of the protest venue, but the Court did not find grounds for urgent intervention at this stage.
Madras High Court Refuses To Stay Circular Mandating Private Schools In Tamil Nadu To Display Fee Structure On Notice Boards
Source: The Hindu
Development: The Madras High Court refused to grant an interim stay on the 1st June, 2026 circular issued by the Director of Private Schools directing all private schools in Tamil Nadu to display their fee structures on notice boards. Justice M. Dhandapani, while hearing a challenge filed by the All India Private Educational Institutions Association, declined interim relief and instead decided to take up the main writ petition for final disposal after two weeks. The association contended that the Tamil Nadu Information Commission’s order and the consequent circular were issued without examining whether private unaided schools fall within the definition of “public authority” under the Right to Information Act, 2005, and argued that the Commission had exceeded its jurisdiction by issuing directions of a general regulatory nature applicable to all private schools.
PIL In Calcutta High Court Seeks Quashing Of Mandatory Vande Mataram Singing In Madrasas
Source: Indian Express
Development: A PIL has been filed before the Calcutta High Court challenging the West Bengal Government’s May 19, 2026 order mandating the singing of Vande Mataram in all madrasas across the State. The petitioner, Md. Mahatabuddin Lasker, a guardian of a madrasa student, contended that the order violates Articles 14, 19(1)(a), and 25(1) of the Constitution by converting what was previously a voluntary practice into a compulsory obligation without statutory authority. The plea argues that certain portions of Vande Mataram contain references to Hindu deities, which some Muslim students consider inconsistent with their religious beliefs, and that compelling students to sing the song infringes their freedom of conscience and right to remain silent.
Orissa High Court Stops Vending Zone Work On Jagannath Temple Land In Cuttack
Source: The New Indian Express
Development: The Orissa High Court has ordered maintenance of status quo on the proposed construction of a 20-shop vending zone at Gayanana Chhak in Cuttack after local residents challenged the project, claiming the land is recorded in the name of Lord Jagannath and is under consideration for settlement in favour of existing occupants. The Division bench comprising Justices Mruganka Sekhar Sahoo and M.S. Raman passed the interim order while hearing a petition filed by residents of Nimpur, who argued that they have been residing on the land and that applications for settlement of the temple land are already pending under the State’s land-settlement policy.
Madras HC Directs Implementation Of E-Prison Module In Puzhal Central Prison
Source: The New Indian Express
Development: The Madras High Court has directed the implementation of the Supreme Court’s ‘E-Prisons Early Release Processing Module’ as a pilot project in Puzhal Central Prison to facilitate the speedy and hassle-free processing of applications for premature release of convicts. The Division Bench of Justices Anita Sumanth and Sunder Mohan passed the direction while hearing a plea seeking the premature release of a life convict who has spent over 21 years in prison. Referring to the Supreme Court’s April 13, 2026 initiative and the recent launch of the digital system, the Court directed the Registrar (IT) to convene a meeting of all stakeholders within two weeks for its implementation and ordered the concerned authorities to file a status report within a week confirming the readiness of the module at Puzhal Prison.
'Heard For 25 Days': Kerala High Court Questions Independent Candidate For Seeking Review Of Order Upholding Suresh Gopi's Election
Source: Live Law
Development: The Kerala High Court questioned independent candidate Joshi Villadom over his review petition seeking reconsideration of the judgment that dismissed his election challenge against the 2024 Lok Sabha victory of Suresh Gopi. Villadom alleged that the judgment had been passed without granting him an opportunity of hearing. However, Justice Kauser Edappagath orally observed that the matter had been heard extensively and that Villadom’s arguments were heard on at least 25 occasions, with records and video recordings available to establish the same. The Court cautioned him against making incorrect statements before the court and pointed out that there are consequences for false assertions.
Kerala High Court Defers Hearing On Petition Seeking Independent Probe Against Chief Secretary Dr. A. Jayathilak
Source: Deepika
Development: The Kerala High Court has deferred the hearing of a petition filed by Anil Bose, a former school headmaster, seeking an impartial and independent investigation into corruption allegations against Kerala Chief Secretary Dr. A. Jayathilak. The petition alleges that Dr. Jayathilak committed irregularities and concealed asset details during his previous tenure as Chairman of the Spices Board. The petitioner contended that despite filing a complaint with the Vigilance department last year, not even a preliminary investigation was launched. Justice A. Badharudeen deferred the hearing to take into account a report recently submitted by the State Government in the matter.
High Court Reprieve For Ex-Haryana Officer Khemka; To Be Treated As Empanelled Addl Secy/Secretary
Source: The Tribune
Development: The Punjab and Haryana High Court held that former IAS officer Ashok Khemka was subjected to discriminatory treatment when the Union Government denied him empanelment at the level of Additional Secretary/Secretary despite granting relaxation of the eligibility condition of three years’ Central deputation to similarly situated officers. The Division Bench of Justices Harsimran Singh Sethi and Deepak Manchanda ruled that once the Government had exercised its power to relax the requirement in favour of other officers, denying the same benefit to Khemka without any distinguishing reason violated Articles 14 and 16 of the Constitution. The Court accordingly directed that Khemka be treated as having been empanelled as Additional Secretary/Secretary for all future purposes, while clarifying that since he has already retired, no actual deputation benefit could now be granted.
Kerala High Court Cites Need For IT Directorate At TDB
Source: The Hindu
Development: The Kerala High Court observed that the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) requires a dedicated IT Directorate to effectively implement the digitisation of its accounting and auditing systems. The Court directed the concerned nodal officer to appear virtually before it and ordered the Board to submit a list of officials capable of handling IT-related matters. The directions were issued in continuation of the Court's earlier October 2025 order requiring the Board to adopt a digitised accounting system and modern auditing practices to ensure greater financial discipline and transparency.
Plea In Supreme Court Challenges Re-Appointment Of Deepak Prakash As Bihar Minister Without Membership Of Legislature
Source: Live Law
Development: A writ petition has been filed before the Supreme Court of India challenging the re-appointment of Deepak Prakash as a minister in the Bihar Government despite not being a member of either House of the State Legislature. The petitioner contends that Article 164(4) permits a non-legislator to remain a minister for only six consecutive months, within which he must secure election, and that this constitutional exception cannot be revived through a change of Government or reappointment.
Indian Supreme Court Developing 'Swadeshi Jurisprudence' Than Relying Only On Imported Concepts: CJI Surya Kant At Oxford
Source: Live Law
Development: The Chief Justice of India, Surya Kant, delivered a lecture at the Oxford Union and the Oxford Law Society, where he emphasised the need for developing a distinctly Indian or “Swadeshi Jurisprudence” in the age of artificial intelligence, rooted in India’s constitutional values, institutional realities, linguistic diversity and social conditions rather than relying solely on imported legal and technological models. Highlighting initiatives such as the e-Courts Project, the National Judicial Data Grid and the “One Case One Data” programme, he underscored that technology should assist, and not replace, judicial decision-making, while remaining firmly guided by constitution. The CJI faced disruptions during the Q&A session, where attendees questioned him on dissent in India and his recent “cockroach” remarks, leading moderators to abruptly conclude the discussion.
II. Details of Important Cases
A. Supreme Court
Voluntary Adult Sex Workers Cannot Be 'Rescued' Or Detained Against Their Will: Supreme Court
Source: Live Law
Development: The Supreme Court held that voluntary adult sex workers cannot be “rescued” or detained against their will, emphasising that the consent and autonomy of adult individuals must be the primary consideration in decisions relating to rehabilitation, reintegration and placement in protective homes. The Court observed that the existing framework under the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act often adopts a one-size-fits-all approach by treating trafficked persons, coerced sex workers and voluntary adult sex workers alike, without recognising their differing circumstances. It directed that a threshold inquiry be conducted to determine whether an adult person is voluntarily engaged in sex work and whether they wish to be placed in protective custody, with their wishes receiving primacy.
Supreme Court Frames Victim Protection Plan For Trafficking Survivors, Says They Must Not Be Treated As Criminals
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Supreme Court has issued a comprehensive Victim Protection Plan for victims of trafficking for commercial sexual exploitation, holding that they have a fundamental right to rehabilitation under Articles 21 and 23 of the Constitution. The bench of Justice observed that trafficking survivors must not be treated as criminals at any stage and directed authorities to accord them the status of crime victims. Noting the absence of a binding framework for rescue, rehabilitation and reintegration, the Court laid down detailed guidelines governing all stages of intervention, including rescue operations, medical care, rehabilitation, repatriation, prosecution and witness protection. The Court also emphasised informed consent, privacy, dignity and non-stigmatisation as core principles, while urging the Union Government to consider enacting a comprehensive anti-trafficking law to address emerging challenges, including cyber-enabled trafficking.
Supreme Court Dismisses WFI Plea Against Delhi HC Order Allowing Vinesh Phogat To Participate In Asian Games Trials
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Supreme Court has dismissed as infructuous the Wrestling Federation of India’s (WFI) challenge to the Delhi High Court’s order permitting wrestler Vinesh Phogat to participate in the Asian Games selection trials, noting that the trials have already concluded. The Court clarified that the High Court’s observations regarding alleged mala fides on the part of WFI have not been affirmed by the Supreme Court and will not prejudice the issues pending before the Single Judge. All questions of law and fact were kept open for adjudication in the pending proceedings.
Supreme Court Rejects Hindu Dharma Parishad's Plea To Light Lamp Atop Thiruparankundram Hill, Reduces Cost Imposed By HC
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Supreme Court refused to interfere with the Madras High Court’s order dismissing a plea filed by the Hindu Dharma Parishad seeking permission to light a lamp atop the Thiruparankundram Hills. However, the Court reduced the cost imposed by the High Court from ₹50,000 to ₹5,000, observing that the original amount was excessive in the facts and circumstances of the case. The challenge arose from an April 2026 Madras High Court judgment which had dismissed the petition and criticised the filing of such pleas for political purposes. While upholding the dismissal, the Supreme Court granted limited relief only on the issue of costs. The dispute forms part of the larger controversy surrounding the lighting of the Karthigai Deepam atop the Thiruparankundram hill near a dargah, which had previously led to multiple proceedings before the Madras High Court, including contempt petitions and appeals concerning implementation of court directions and access to the hill for religious observances.
Supreme Court Dismisses Plea Seeking Guidelines For Time-Bound Disposal Of Cases
Source: The Hindu
Verdict: The Supreme Court dismissed a petition seeking the framing of guidelines for time-bound disposal of cases across courts in India. The Division Bench of Justices Vikram Nath and V. Mohana declined to entertain the plea, which had also sought the formulation of uniform and enforceable guidelines regulating adjournments and the implementation of a national case flow management policy applicable to all courts. The petitioner, an advocate, had requested judicial directions to address delays in disposal of cases and streamline court procedures, but the Court refused to grant the relief sought and dismissed the petition.
Supreme Court Says Excessive Judicial Interference Has Sometimes Undermined Arbitration In India
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Supreme Court has observed that while arbitration as a dispute resolution mechanism has not failed in India, courts have at times undermined its effectiveness through excessive judicial interference. Emphasising the need for certainty, uniformity and finality in arbitral proceedings, the bench remarked that judicial intervention has often been “a cure without a disease,” adversely affecting ease of doing business and investor confidence. The observations came while dismissing an appeal filed by the Madhya Pradesh Road Development Corporation against an arbitral award in favour of Jabalpur Corridor Pvt. Ltd., with the Court refusing to allow the reopening of jurisdictional issues that had already attained finality after years of litigation.
B. Karnataka High Court
Karnataka High Court Refuses To Quash Arrest Of Man Accused Of Creating Fake Aadhaar Cards For Bangladeshi Nationals
Source : Live Law
Verdict: The Karnataka High Court has refused to entertain a plea seeking quashing of the arrest of a Bengaluru-based photocopy shop owner accused of creating fake Aadhaar and PAN cards for alleged Bangladeshi nationals. While permitting the petitioner to withdraw the plea, Justice M. Nagaprasanna granted him liberty to seek bail before the trial court. During the hearing, the Court orally expressed concern over the alleged creation of fraudulent identity documents, observing that such acts undermine national security and facilitate illegal claims to rights and benefits. The petitioner was arrested following a police raid that allegedly led to the recovery of fake rental agreements, forged seals and Aadhaar-related documents. He faces charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Aadhaar Act, the Foreigners Act and the Passport Act.
‘Against Karnataka Industrial Area Development Act’: High Court Sets Aside Land Acquisition, Says It Was Done For Private Entity's Expansion
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Karnataka High Court set aside the acquisition of 17.38 acres of land acquired under the Karnataka Industrial Area Development Act (KIAD Act) for the benefit of the Indian Machine Tool Manufacturers’ Association (IMTMA), holding that the acquisition was a colourable exercise of power and a fraud on the statute. The Court observed that the KIAD Act permits acquisition for establishing industrial areas in furtherance of a public purpose, and not for the expansion of a profitable private entity. It held that the State cannot use its power of eminent domain to acquire land from farmers for the commercial benefit of a private organisation.
C. Delhi High Court
Delhi High Court Reserves Verdict On Pleas Alleging Irregularities In Bar Council Elections
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Delhi High Court has reserved its verdict on a batch of petitions alleging irregularities in the Bar Council of Delhi (BCD) elections after hearing arguments over three consecutive days, including the weekend. A special bench comprising Justice Anil Kshetarpal and Justice Tejas Karia also examined video recordings of the vote counting process. The matter was transferred to the High Court by the Supreme Court, which had stayed the counting of ballots amid allegations that tampered ballot papers were being counted. The petitions arise from controversies surrounding the February 2026 BCD elections, including allegations of violations of election rules, suspension of candidates and claims of misconduct during the polling process.
Delhi High Court Recognises Right To Be Forgotten, Lays Down Framework For Masking Personal Details In Judgments
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Delhi High Court has recognised the right to be forgotten as an integral part of the right to privacy under Article 21 of the Constitution and laid down guidelines for masking personal details in judicial records available online. Justice Sachin Datta held that individuals may seek removal or masking of personal information where continued online accessibility causes disproportionate harm to their privacy, dignity and reputation. The Court directed that while names and personal identifiers may be concealed, the reasoning and legal findings in judgments should remain publicly accessible. It further held that once a masking order is passed, search engines and legal databases must de-index the judgment from name based searches, while unredacted copies would continue to remain available for legitimate legal purposes.
Delhi High Court Refuses To Order Re-Polling For BCD Elections
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Delhi High Court refused to order re-polling in the elections to the Bar Council of Delhi despite allegations of irregularities and manipulated ballot papers. A Division Bench comprising Justices Anil Kshetarpal and Tejas Karia held that the entire election could not be set aside merely because some ballots appeared tampered with. The Court directed that all doubtful ballots containing erasures, overwriting, or suspicious alterations be segregated and examined by the Additional Solicitor General, whose decision on their validity would be final. It also ordered the counting process to resume from the stage where it had been halted, while introducing enhanced safeguards such as CCTV monitoring, live-streaming, secure storage of ballots, and strict access controls to ensure transparency.
D. Rajasthan High Court
Rajasthan High Court Quashes Teacher’s Suspension Over Whatsapp Comments About Minister
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Rajasthan High Court quashed the suspension of a Government school teacher who had been accused of posting objectionable comments on WhatsApp about a minister. Justice Farjand Ali held that the suspension order was without legal authority, as it neither invoked the relevant service rules nor demonstrated that the District Education Officer was competent to impose such a penalty. The Court observed that allegations of tarnishing a minister’s image cannot justify action outside the statutory framework, directed the teacher’s reinstatement with all consequential benefits, and clarified that any disciplinary proceedings could continue only in accordance with law.
E. Kerala High Court
Kerala High Court Upholds ED Probe Against CMRL; Holds Predicate Offence Not Necessary For Civil Action Under PMLA
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Kerala High Court dismissed Cochin Minerals and Rutile Limited's (CMRL) appeal challenging the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) investigation into alleged money laundering activities, thereby affirming the continuation of the probe. The Court held that registration of a predicate (scheduled) offence is a prerequisite only for criminal prosecution under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and not for civil actions such as attachment proceedings or the exercise of inquiry powers by the ED. Rejecting CMRL's challenge to the Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR), the Court observed that an ECIR is not a statutory document and that its absence does not prevent the ED from initiating civil proceedings. Notably, while reserving its verdict, the Division Bench had granted interim protection by directing the ED not to take coercive steps against CMRL and its officials until the judgment was pronounced. The ruling ultimately upholds the ED's ongoing investigation into alleged financial transactions involving CMRL and Exalogic Solutions, a company linked to former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's daughter, Veena Thaikkandiyil.
Kerala High Court Suggests Committee To Address Harassment In Medical Colleges
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Kerala High Court has suggested the constitution of a committee to examine allegations of harassment faced by students in medical colleges and recommend corrective measures. The observation was made while hearing the anticipatory bail plea of a dental college professor accused in the suicide case of Dalit student Nithin Raj. Expressing concern over recurring complaints of mistreatment by faculty members, the Court remarked that many students may be unwilling to complain against college authorities and emphasised the need for a deeper study of the issue. The matter arose during proceedings relating to allegations that the deceased student was subjected to harassment by faculty members before his death. The case has been posted for further hearing on June 8.
“Lucky You Are In Kerala”: Kerala HC On Threats Faced In MP By Kumbh Mela Fame Monalisa Bhosle, Husband
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Kerala High Court reserved its order on the anticipatory bail plea of Monalisa Bhosle and her husband Mohammed Farmaan Khan in a kidnapping case registered in Madhya Pradesh over allegations that Bhosle was a minor and their marriage was invalid. The couple alleged that State authorities and fundamentalist groups were targeting them over their interfaith marriage and manipulating records to portray Bhosle as a minor, prompting Justice Kauser Edappagath to orally remark that they were “lucky” to be in Kerala. Opposing the plea, the Madhya Pradesh Government argued that Bhosle was a minor at the time of marriage and that forged documents had been used to obtain the marriage certificate. The Court questioned the State’s stand, noting that Bhosle herself had made no complaint against Khan, and reserved its verdict.
Kerala High Court Closes Contempt Case Against Kerala University VC
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Kerala High Court has closed the contempt petition filed against Kerala University Vice-Chancellor Dr. Mohan Kunnummel over the alleged non-implementation of the University Syndicate’s decision reinstating Prof. Dr. K.S. Anil Kumar as Registrar. The Court closed the proceedings after the petitioner submitted that no further orders were required. The dispute arose following the Registrar’s suspension in July 2025 amid the politically charged Bharat Mata controversy, which centered on the display of an RSS-associated Bharat Mata portrait at a university event and formed part of a wider confrontation between the Raj Bhavan and the Left-led state Government over ideological symbolism in public institutions. While the Syndicate had later revoked the suspension, the Vice-Chancellor had not implemented the decision and instead referred the matter to the Chancellor. The Court granted liberty to the petitioners to challenge any subsequent orders through fresh proceedings.
Kerala High Court Affirms Down Syndrome As Intellectual Disability, Clarifies Legal Position On Guardianship
Source: The Print
Verdict: The Kerala High Court held that Down syndrome qualifies as an intellectual disability under the National Trust Act, 1999, thereby entitling affected individuals to guardianship mechanisms provided under the law. Justice C.S. Dias set aside a 2025 order of the Kottayam District Collector that had rejected a father's guardianship application for his 21-year-old daughter with Down syndrome, on the ground that the condition was not a recognised disability under the Act. The Court held the collector's decision to be "manifestly arbitrary" and suffering from "non-application of mind", noting that the disability certificates clearly established intellectual disability attributable to Down syndrome and that the authority had rejected the application without conducting any assessment. The Court directed the District Collector to reconsider the application afresh within three months.
F. Madras High Court
Madras High Court Closes DMK’s 2016 Case Related To Conduct Of Local Body Polls In Tamil Nadu
Source: The Hindu
Verdict: The Madras High Court closed as infructuous a writ petition filed by the DMK in 2016 seeking conduct of local body elections with adequate representation for Scheduled Tribes and proper rotation of reserved seats. Justice M. Dhandapani noted that Justice N. Kirubakaran had already passed detailed directions in 2016 addressing the issues raised and had kept the petition pending only for monitoring compliance. The earlier order had directed the State Government to amend the Tamil Nadu Panchayats (Election) Rules, 1995, to mandate disclosure of criminal antecedents by candidates through affidavits filed along with nomination papers. The Tamil Nadu State Election Commission was directed to reject nominations lacking such disclosures, publicise the requirement among candidates and voters, maintain a database of the affidavits, and upload the details on its website. Taking note of these directions and subsequent developments, the Court closed the petition.
Plea Seeking Probe Against Chief Minister Vijay Over Alleged Income Suppression Withdrawn From Madras High Court
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Madras High Court permitted the withdrawal of a petition seeking an investigation against Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay over allegations of suppression of income, receipt of unaccounted cash remuneration, and concealment of financial transactions. The plea had sought directions to the Income Tax Department, law enforcement agencies, and authorities under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act to initiate appropriate proceedings against Vijay. A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice S.A. Dharmadhikari and Justice G. Arul Murugan accepted the petitioner’s request to withdraw the case and closed the matter. The Court noted that other proceedings concerning alleged discrepancies in Vijay’s financial disclosures are already pending, including a petition in which the Income Tax Department has been directed to file its response.
10 Years After Election, Madras High Court Declares Defeated Candidate Winner; Criticises Supreme Court For Keeping Matter Pending
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Madras High Court declared former Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker Appavu as the duly elected MLA from the Radhapuram Assembly Constituency for the 2016–2021 term, nearly ten years after the election was held. The Court found that valid postal ballots cast in his favour had been wrongly rejected and that, after recounting, he had actually won the election by a margin of 103 votes over AIADMK candidate I.S. Inbadurai. The Court strongly criticised the prolonged delay in adjudicating the dispute, particularly noting that the matter remained pending before the Supreme Court for about six years after a recount was ordered in 2019. The Court directed the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly Secretariat to substitute Appavu’s name as the elected representative for the constituency in official records and held that Inbadurai would not be entitled to claim pensionary benefits as an MLA for the 2016–2021 term.
Madras High Court orders Sun TV to pay ₹ 10 lakh to actress R Sukanya over 1996 Veerappan interview
Source: Indian Express
Verdict: The Madras High Court upheld a 2015 trial court order directing Sun TV to pay ₹10 lakh in damages to actress R Sukanya for defamatory allegations made by Veerappan during a 1996 interview telecast on the channel. Justice K Kumaresh Babu ruled that Sun TV had editorial control over the content and failed to verify or edit out the defamatory portions. The court also upheld the permanent injunction restraining further telecast of the defamatory parts of the interview.
Madras High Court Criticises Vigilance Department For Not Probing Allegations Of TNSTC Scam
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Madras High Court directed the Vigilance Department to investigate allegations of a scam in the Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) involving the creation of fake records to show that buses were operating on routes when they were not. The Court criticised the Vigilance Department for merely forwarding complaints to departmental authorities instead of conducting an independent inquiry, observing that it should have examined whether similar fraudulent practices existed on other routes and whether senior officials were involved. The case arose from allegations that conductors were compelled to issue multiple sets of tickets to create false records, thereby facilitating misappropriation of diesel expenses, salaries and maintenance costs.
G. Andhra Pradesh High Court
AP High Court Quashes Rioting Charge In Fake Social Media Post Case, Allows Other Proceedings To Continue
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Andhra Pradesh High Court has quashed the charge under Section 153 IPC (wantonly giving provocation with intent to cause riot) against two persons accused of circulating a false social media post claiming that the son of a former MLA had been arrested in a drug case. Justice K. Sreenivasa Reddy held that the essential ingredients of the offence were not made out, as there was no allegation that the post had led to or was likely to lead to rioting. However, the Court declined to quash proceedings under Sections 120B and 505(2) IPC and Section 66 of the Information Technology Act, observing that whether the petitioners circulated the alleged fake news was a disputed question of fact requiring investigation.
H. Allahabad High Court
Allahabad High Court Declines To Entertain Plea Against ‘Cockroach Janta Party’; Liberty Granted To Approach Karnataka HC
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Allahabad High Court declined to entertain a PIL filed by BJP functionary S. Vignesh Shishir seeking a multi-agency probe into the online movement known as the “Cockroach Janta Party” (CJP) and the extradition of its founder, Abhijeet Dipke, from the United States. The petition sought blocking of CJP’s social media accounts, registration of criminal cases by agencies such as the NIA and ED, and issuance of a Look-Out Circular against Dipke, alleging activities detrimental to India’s sovereignty and misuse of Supreme Court observations. The Court held that the petitioner, a resident of Bengaluru, ought to have approached the Karnataka High Court and found no specific connection with Uttar Pradesh to maintain the plea. The petition was consequently withdrawn with liberty to approach a court of competent jurisdiction.
Allahabad High Court Flags Forensic Lab Deficiencies In UP; Seeks CM’s Intervention
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Allahabad High Court has expressed concern over inadequate infrastructure and staffing in Uttar Pradesh’s Forensic Science Laboratories (FSLs), observing that deficiencies in DNA testing facilities are resulting in rape and murder accused obtaining bail. While granting bail in a rape and murder case, the Justice remarked that the Court was constrained to do so due to the absence of conclusive scientific evidence and directed that a copy of the order be sent to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath through the Chief Secretary. The Court urged the State Government to strengthen FSL infrastructure by providing advanced equipment and adequate personnel, noting that incomplete DNA profiling has emerged as a recurring issue in serious criminal investigations.
Allahabad HC Flags Senior IAS Officer's Conduct To DoPT Over Non-Compliance With Police Reform Directives.
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Allahabad High Court directed that a copy of its order be forwarded to the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) for consideration by the Appointment Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) while assessing the suitability of Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Sanjay Prasad for future assignments. Referring to Kautilya's Arthashastra, the Court observed that there was prima facie failure to ensure compliance with its earlier directions on police investigation reforms and held that reliance on a proposed Special Leave Petition before the Supreme Court could not justify prolonged non-compliance. Expressing concern over bureaucratic resistance to judicial directives, the Court also recommended consideration of a doctrine of superior responsibility to hold senior officials accountable for failures or omissions by their subordinates in implementing State policy and court-mandated reforms.
H. Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh High Court
Enemy Infiltrated Govt Through Employees To Advance Terror Agenda: J&K and Ladakh High Court Upholds Constable’s Dismissal For Sheltering Militant
Source: Live Law
Development: he Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh High Court upheld the dismissal of a police constable accused of anti-national activities, setting aside a Single Judge’s order that had reinstated him. The Court found that the constable had established contacts with a Pakistani militant, arranged a hideout for him, and was linked to the recovery of arms and hand grenades during the investigation. Holding that his activities were prejudicial to the security of the State, the Court ruled that the Government was justified in invoking Section 126(2)(c) of the erstwhile J&K Constitution, equivalent to Article 311(2)(c) of the Constitution of India, to dismiss him without conducting a departmental enquiry. Observing that hostile forces had sought to infiltrate Government institutions and security agencies to advance terrorist objectives, the Court held that a regular enquiry would have been inexpedient and could have endangered witnesses.
I. Other Courts and Tribunals
Delhi Riots: Karkardooma Courts Acquits 5 In Murder Case, Finds 'Serious Contradictions' In Prosecution Evidence
Source: Live Law
Verdict: Karkardooma Courts acquitted five accused in the 2020 North-East Delhi riots murder case relating to the death of Mohd. Anwar, holding that the prosecution failed to prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt. The Court found serious contradictions and material inconsistencies in eyewitness testimonies, identification evidence, and recovery proceedings, and granted the accused the benefit of doubt despite accepting that Anwar had died a homicidal death.
TN Govt Seeks Governor’s Nod To Prosecute Senthilbalaji In Cash-For-Jobs Case
Source: The Times of India
Verdict: The Tamil Nadu Government led by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has forwarded the Enforcement Directorate's request for prosecution sanction against DMK leader V. Senthilbalaji to the Governor in the alleged cash-for-jobs money laundering case linked to his tenure as Transport Minister in the AIADMK Government (2011–2016). The ED had earlier sought sanction from the then Governor in May 2025, but the request was returned after the DMK Government directed that the State Government was the competent authority. The agency has now resubmitted its request directly to the Chief Secretary, alleging deliberate delays by the previous regime.
This week’s developments underscore the judiciary’s expanding influence over questions that extend far beyond conventional legal disputes. Courts are increasingly being called upon to adjudicate matters involving electoral integrity, educational governance, administrative accountability, welfare implementation, technological regulation, and the balance between individual rights and state authority.
Several recurring themes emerge from the week’s proceedings. First, the demand for greater transparency and institutional accountability continues to shape litigation across sectors from electoral roll revisions and public examinations to bureaucratic decision-making. Second, courts remain deeply engaged with questions of rights-based governance, particularly in areas such as disability rights, dignity, privacy, rehabilitation, and access to public services. Third, the judiciary’s engagement with emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, signals the beginning of a new phase in institutional modernization.
As legal challenges continue to intersect with governance and politics, judicial developments will remain a critical indicator of broader institutional trends in India. Monitoring these developments is therefore essential for understanding the law, and also for anticipating shifts in public policy, political narratives, and administrative priorities. We will continue to track these developments closely in future editions of Indian Judiciary Watch.
IV. Appointments, Collegium Recommendations, And Transfers Section
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