Every week, courts across India shape the legal contours of governance, elections, public administration, civil liberties, and constitutional interpretation. While many of these developments are reported individually, their broader policy significance often emerges only when viewed together.
This edition, covering 22 June to 27 June 2026, brings together the most consequential proceedings before the Supreme Court and High Courts across the country ranging from constitutional questions on reservation, electoral processes, and judicial appointments to disputes over religious freedoms, urban governance, environmental regulation, and criminal justice. Alongside major verdicts, we also track important interim orders, judicial observations, notices, and ongoing litigation that could influence public policy and political strategy in the weeks ahead.
Whether it is the Supreme Court’s observations in the Tamil Nadu Medical Officers Association v. State of Tamil Nadu (NEET-SS super-speciality seats), the Madras High Court’s efforts to resolve the Thiruparankundram Karthigai Deepam Dispute, or the Calcutta High Court’s scrutiny of the RG Kar Hospital Rape and Murder Case, this digest aims to identify what the courts said and why it matters.
Key Legal Developments -
"Give Quietus To This": Madras High Court Suggests Mediation To Resolve Thiruparankundram Karthigai Deepam Dispute
Development: The Madras High Court suggested mediation to resolve the long-pending Thiruparankundram Karthigai Deepam dispute, observing that the parties should "give quietus" to the controversy and work towards an amicable solution. The dispute concerns the lighting of the Karthigai Deepam at the Deepa Thoon near the Thiruparankundram hill, which devotees claim is a long-standing religious practice, while the State has cited law and order concerns. The High Court extended the interim stay on contempt proceedings, taking note of pending appeals before the Supreme Court. It is to be noted that the Tamil Nadu Government has also challenged the High Court's earlier order permitting the ritual before the Supreme Court.
Allahabad High Court Grants Last Opportunity To UP Govt To Submit OBC Commission Report On Panchayat Reservation
Source: Live Law
Development: The Allahabad High Court granted the Uttar Pradesh Government a final opportunity to place on record the OBC Commission's report on reservation for Other Backward Classes in Gram Panchayat elections, while hearing a plea seeking timely conduct of the long-pending three-tier Panchayat elections. Noting that the State had repeatedly cited the pending Commission report as the reason for delaying elections despite earlier court directions, the Court directed it to file a detailed affidavit disclosing the report, if prepared, along with a clear timeline for completing the electoral process.
Neet-SS: Cut-Off For In-Service Candidates Should Be Lesser': Supreme Court Urges Reduction In Percentile For Govt Doctors
Source: Live Law
Development: A petition seeking to restrain the Tamil Nadu Government from surrendering 152 vacant super speciality medical seats to the All India Quota was reviewed by the Supreme Court. The Tamil Nadu Medical Officers Association argued that transferring unfilled seats before concluding the second round of counselling or deciding on qualifying percentile reductions would permanently disenfranchise working state medical practitioners. The bench orally observed that the qualifying cut-off for in-service Government doctors must be lower than that of general candidates since public healthcare professionals balance active duty with their studies.
‘Axe Has To Fall, And It Will’: Gujarat High Court On Surat Shanties’ Demolitions
Source: Indian Express
Development: The Gujarat High Court questioned the circumstances surrounding the demolition of nearly 150 shanties in Surat's Nasirnagar area, where residents alleged that their homes were demolished in May without prior notice or any demolition order. The Court directed the Surat Municipal Corporation to prepare a definite rehabilitation plan for the displaced residents, sought affidavits from the Police Commissioner, civic authorities and Torrent Power to identify who authorised the demolition and electricity disconnection, and warned that accountability must be fixed if officials acted without legal authority. Notably, the demolition, allegedly carried out under police protection, has since been denied by the Surat Municipal Corporation. The Court observed that either the demolition was carried out by the Municipal Corporation in violation of mandatory legal procedure or officials misused their positions, adding that in either case the authorities could not evade responsibility. The matter has been listed for further hearing on 29th June.
Trinamool Congress Moves Calcutta High Court Over Recent Attacks, Egg-Pelting Incidents Against MLAs, MPs
Development: The Calcutta High Court agreed to hear an urgent PIL filed by the All India Trinamool Congress regarding escalating public violence against its party members. The petition highlights recent targeted assaults, egg-pelting, and mob intimidation directed at prominent party representatives and workers across West Bengal. The Petitioner contends that the state law and order situation has turned deeply alarming, violating fundamental constitutional protections. Acknowledging the necessity of procedural speed, the bench scheduled the matter for an expedited priority hearing to address these systemic safety grievances. Additionally, in a separate single-judge proceeding, the Calcutta High Court refused urgent hearing/relief to TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee, who had sought the Court’s permission to travel abroad for medical treatment on his eye, which had been operated earlier.
Supreme Court Stays Delhi HC Order For Premature Release Of 1993 Bowbazar Blast Convict
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Supreme Court stayed the Delhi High Court order directing the premature release of Md Rashid Khan, a convict in the 1993 Bowbazar blast case, and issued notice on the West Bengal Government’s appeal. Md Rashid Khan was convicted under the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act for storing explosives that caused the 1993 Bowbazar blast in Kolkata, killing at least 69 people and injuring over 100. The Court observed that releasing Khan before deciding the appeal would render the proceedings infructuous, noting the gravity of the offence, which it described as “almost terrorist activity,” despite Khan’s claim of over 33 years of incarceration and good conduct in prison.
Supreme Court Stays Order Granting Rs. 10 Lakh Compensation To Man Illegally Arrested By UP Police
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Supreme Court stayed the Allahabad High Court’s order directing the Uttar Pradesh Government to pay ₹10 lakhs compensation to a man for his illegal arrest and over three months of unlawful detention. The accused argued that the arrest was illegal because the police failed to furnish him with written grounds of arrest as mandated by recent Supreme Court judgments interpreting Article 22(1) of the Constitution. The State challenged the quantum of compensation while admitting that the grounds of arrest were not supplied to the respondent and informed the Court that disciplinary action had been initiated against the concerned SHO.
Calcutta High Court Seeks CM Shri Suvendu Adhikari's Response To Mamata Banerjee's Election Petition; Judge Discloses BJP Link
Source: Bar and Bench ‘
Development: The Calcutta High Court issued notice to Shri Suvendu Adhikari on an election petition filed by Mamata Banerjee challenging his election from the Bhabanipur Assembly constituency. Holding that the petition satisfied the requirements of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, the Court sought Adhikari’s response, directed preservation of CCTV footage, EVMs and VVPATs used during polling and counting. Before hearing the case, Justice Gaurang Kanth disclosed that his brother is a BJP national spokesperson, and proceeded only after the petitioner expressed no objection to his hearing the matter.
CPI(ML) Moves Calcutta High Court Challenging WB Govt's 'Blanket Re-Verification' Of 1.69 Crore Caste Certificates
Source: Live Law
Development: The Communist Party of India (Marxist–Leninist) Liberation moved the Calcutta High Court challenging a West Bengal Government memorandum directing blanket re-verification of all SC, ST and OBC caste certificates issued since 2011. The petition challenges the 14th May, 2026 memorandum, which covers nearly 1.69 crore caste certificates and allegedly links caste re-verification with the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The plea contends that the exercise lacks statutory backing, unlawfully reopens valid caste certificates without allegations of fraud or individual inquiry, conflates caste verification with electoral roll revision, and violates constitutional guarantees under Articles 14, 15(4), 16(4) and 21.
Zubeen Garg Death Case : Supreme Court Issues Notice To Assam Police On Bail Plea Of Event Organiser
Source: Live Law
Development: The Supreme Court issued notice to the Assam Police on the bail plea of event organiser Shyam Kanu Mahanta, who is accused in the alleged conspiracy surrounding the death of Assamese singer Zubeen Garg during a yacht trip in Singapore in September 2025. Rejecting the bail plea, the Gauhati High Court held that the material collected during investigation prima facie indicated Mahanta's involvement in the alleged conspiracy. The prosecution alleges Mahanta knowingly exposed Garg, despite his medical condition, to alcohol and a risky yacht trip, attempted to destroy evidence and fled after the incident, while Mahanta contends it was an accidental drowning, denies involvement in organising the yacht trip, and disputes the allegation that he posed a flight risk.
Centre Tightens FCRA Rules, Restricts Use of Foreign Donations for Conversion-Linked
Source: The Hindu
Development: The Central Government amended the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Rules, 2011, tightening compliance requirements for NGOs receiving foreign contributions under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010. NGOs must now register under specified activity categories, disclose their geographical areas of operation, websites, social media accounts and publications, and restrict foreign-funded activities to approved purposes and States/UTs. Existing FCRA-registered organisations have one year to comply, while violations, including use of funds for unapproved purposes or areas, will attract penalties of at least ₹1 lakh or a percentage of the funds involved.
Karnataka High Court Notice To State On Plea Challenging May 2026 Notification On Sub-Classification Of SC Communities For Reservation
Source: The Hindu
Development: The Karnataka High Court issued notice to the State Government on a petition challenging its 8th May 2026 notification revising the sub-classification of Scheduled Castes for reservation. The notification reduced the overall SC reservation from 17% to 15% following an interim court order and redistributed it by allocating 5.25% each to Categories A and B and 4.5% to Category C. The petition contends that the sub-classification is arbitrary and unscientific, particularly alleging that nomadic and semi-nomadic communities have been wrongly grouped with relatively advanced communities. The Court tagged the matter with pending challenges to the August 2025 notification introducing the sub-classification, while related petitions challenging the 2022 reservation law remain pending before a Division Bench.
RG Kar Case: Calcutta High Court Expresses Dissatisfaction With SIT Probe, Directs Production Of Case Diary & Investigation Material
Source: Live Law
Development: The Calcutta High Court expressed dissatisfaction with the SIT's investigation into the RG Kar Hospital rape and murder case, observing that the probe had not reached its "logical conclusion" despite earlier directions. The Court directed the SIT to produce the case diary and all investigation materials in a sealed cover by 6th August, while expecting the investigation, pending since October 2024, to be brought to a final stage without further delay.
Bombay High Court Pulls Up Maharashtra Govt Over Drinking Water Crisis, Says Progressive State Cannot Give Excuses
Source: Live Law
Development: The Bombay High Court pulled up the Government of Maharashtra over persistent administrative and governance failures in ensuring access to potable drinking water, observing that a progressive State cannot justify citizens having to approach courts for such a basic necessity. The observations came while hearing long-pending petitions concerning inadequate drinking water, healthcare, and nutrition facilities in the Melghat tribal region. Noting that the issue stemmed not from the absence of Government schemes but from serious implementation gaps, the Court directed the State to place on record its mechanism for effectively delivering safe drinking water to every citizen. It emphasised that access to potable drinking water is a fundamental right and that the State's constitutional obligation lies in ensuring the effective implementation of its welfare measures without delay.
'Street Vendors May Lose Sole Means Of Livelihood': PIL In Calcutta High Court Seeks Action Against Alleged Illegal Evictions
Source: Live Law
Development: A PIL has been filed before the Calcutta High Court seeking directions against the alleged large-scale eviction of street vendors across West Bengal without following the mandatory safeguards under the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014. The petitioner alleges that the State is preparing to evict vendors without conducting statutory surveys, constituting Town Vending Committees, issuing vending certificates or providing rehabilitation measures as required under the 2014 Act. The plea contends that such action would unlawfully deprive thousands of vendors of their sole means of livelihood and violate their statutory and constitutional protections under Article 21.
'We Can't Shut Our Eyes': Kerala High Court Seeks Centre's Plan To Tackle Environmental Impact Of MSC Elsa 3 Wreckage
Source: Live Law
Development: The Kerala High Court directed the Union Government to submit a comprehensive action plan to address the environmental and navigational risks arising from the wreckage of the Liberian-flagged vessel MSC Elsa 3, observing that the Court could not “shut its eyes” to the potential consequences. The case arises from a batch of PILs concerning the sinking of the vessel off the Kerala coast in May 2025, leaving hundreds of containers and hazardous cargo on the seabed, raising concerns over marine pollution, coastal livelihoods and navigational safety. Recording the Centre's submission that a joint meeting of concerned ministries and agencies would formulate a plan, the Court sought details within two weeks and listed the matter for 14th July.
CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke To Appear Before IT Ministry Panel Over X Account Ban
Source: Indian Express
Development: Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke is set to appear before a review committee of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology regarding the Government's decision to withhold the Cockroach Janta Party's X account. The hearing follows the blocking of the party's account after its launch in May, while Dipke continues a sit-in protest at Jantar Mantar demanding the resignation of the Union Education Minister over alleged examination irregularities and the NEET paper leak.
Kerala High Court Suo Motu Impleads Union, Forest & Wildlife Dept To Consider Improvement Of Kottiyoor Temple In Wayanad's Forest Area
Source: Live Law
Development: The Kerala High Court suo motu impleaded the Union Government, Forest and Wildlife authorities, Pollution Control Board and local bodies in a plea concerning improvement of pilgrim facilities at the eco-sensitive Kottiyoor Temple in Wayanad. The Court directed the authorities to examine measures for balancing environmental protection with pilgrimage needs, including crowd management, waste disposal, traffic regulation and sustainable infrastructure, and sought their response before the next hearing on 3rd July.
Madhya Pradesh To Unveil UCC Draft By 5th July, Plans Bill In Monsoon Assembly Session
Source: The New Indian Express
Development: The Madhya Pradesh Government has announced that the draft Uniform Civil Code (UCC) will be finalised by 5th July, with the Bill proposed to be introduced during the Assembly's monsoon session beginning 20th July. The Government said it received over nine lakh public suggestions, claiming that around 90% supported the UCC, while the drafting committee is expected to incorporate recommendations by 30th June before finalising the draft. Opposition parties and religious groups have questioned the move, raising concerns over tribal customs, live-in relationships, and the need for a national debate before implementing the UCC at the State level.
New Class 9 NCERT Textbook Describes Judiciary As Impartial Institution Safeguarding Citizens' Rights
Source: Economic Times
Development: The new Class 9 National Council of Educational Research and Training social science textbook describes the judiciary as an impartial and independent institution that safeguards citizens' rights and upholds the Constitution. It highlights the judiciary's role in reviewing executive actions and constitutional amendments, striking down unconstitutional laws, protecting democratic values, and ensuring access to justice through Public Interest Litigations (PILs). The textbook comes months after the withdrawal of the controversial Class 8 textbook, pursuant to directions of the Supreme Court of India, over content referring to corruption in the judiciary.
Attack On ED officials: CPM Worker Granted Bail As Prosecutor Raises No Objection
Source: On Manorama
Development: The Thiruvananthapuram Sessions Court granted bail to the ninth accused Hareesh Kumar in the alleged attack on Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials during a search at the residence of Opposition Leader Pinarayi Vijayan in connection with the CMRL-linked money laundering probe involving his daughter, Veena T. According to the prosecution, a mob of around 300 persons allegedly surrounded the ED team, attacked officials with sticks and stones, damaged vehicles, and obstructed the search operation, causing injuries to ED, police and CRPF personnel. The Court granted bail after noting that the investigation had substantially progressed, witness statements had been recorded, most weapons had been recovered, and the Public Prosecutor stated that further custodial interrogation was not required. Following the bail order, the Kerala Government removed District Public Prosecutor Geena Kumari from the case after her stand drew criticism. Senior Advocate S. Santhosh Kumar has been appointed as the new Special Prosecutor, and the State has decided to challenge the bail order before the High Court, alleging that the Public Prosecutor had misled the Sessions Court.
Plea In Supreme Court Seeks Creation Of Fire Safety Framework For High-Risk Public Buildings
Source: The Hindu
Development: A petition has been filed before the Supreme Court seeking the creation of a National Minimum Fire and Life Safety Framework for high-risk public buildings such as schools, coaching centres, hospitals, hotels and commercial complexes, following the fatal June 2026 fire incidents in Delhi and Lucknow. The plea argues that recurring fire tragedies reflect a systemic failure to protect the right to life under Article 21 and seeks directions for mandatory time-bound fire and electrical safety audits, a public digital portal for Fire NOCs and compliance records, QR-coded fire safety certificates, restrictions on unsafe use of basements and rooftops, district-level fire safety enforcement committees, and a strict liability compensation framework for victims. It also urges the Court to monitor implementation through a continuing mandamus until a nationwide fire safety audit and compliance mechanism is operational.
Cognizance Taken Despite B Report: HD Kumaraswamy Tells Karnataka High Court In Plea Against FIR For 'False Statement' In Election Speech
Source: Live Law
Development: The Karnataka High Court continued interim protection to Minister of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises of India H. D. Kumaraswamy till 17th July, 2026 in his plea challenging criminal proceedings over an alleged false statement made during the 2024 Lok Sabha election campaign. Kumaraswamy contended that the Magistrate wrongly took cognisance despite the police filing two B reports recommending closure, and argued that newspaper reports relied upon for the complaint did not attribute the alleged statement to him.
Madras High Court Directs Tamil Nadu, Puducherry Govts To Report Steps Taken To Remove Stray Dogs From Public Places
Source: Live Law
Development: The Madras High Court directed the Governments of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry to file detailed reports on the steps taken to implement the Supreme Court's directions for removing stray dogs from public places, with priority to educational institutions and hospitals. The suo motu proceedings were initiated pursuant to the Supreme Court's 19th May directions requiring all High Courts to monitor compliance with measures for removing stray dogs from public places and strengthening sterilisation, vaccination and animal birth control infrastructure.
Trinamool Congress Moves Calcutta High Court Against Debit Freeze On 3 Bank Accounts
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The All India Trinamool Congress moved the Calcutta High Court challenging the debit freeze on three of its bank accounts and seeking quashing of the FIR and a stay on the investigation. The petition adds that without conducting any preliminary inquiry into the complaint, the police proceeded to order coercive measures against the party’s bank accounts. The party contended that the freeze was ordered without any preliminary inquiry on the basis of a complaint by rebel MLA Biswanath Das alleging financial fraud, and alleged that the action was politically motivated and had disrupted its functioning.
'Wind Can't Change With Change In Govt': Former Minister KN Nehru Opposes TN Govt's Move To Withdraw Review Of Order Directing FIR Against Him
Source: Live Law
Development: A procedural dispute regarding an alleged bribery case involving former Tamil Nadu minister Shri K.N. Nehru was heard by the Madras High Court. The case originated from an Enforcement Directorate letter alleging that ₹ 634 crore was collected as bribes for the appointment of approximately 2,538 officials during the previous Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam Government. Senior Advocate Shri Siddharth Luthra argued that the state Government could not alter its legal stance simply because the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party had formed the new administration. The court, during the proceeding on 23rd June, 2026, scheduled the review applications for a detailed hearing on 10th July, 2026, and closed the connected contempt petitions filed by AIADMK MP Shri I.S. Inbadurai since the case was already registered.
Messi Fiasco: Calcutta High Court Adjourns Hearing On Challenge To Aroop Biswas' Interim Protection, Extends Relief Till 2nd July
Source: Live Law
Development: The Calcutta High Court adjourned the hearing on the challenge to the interim protection granted to former West Bengal Sports Minister Aroop Biswas in connection with the alleged irregularities surrounding the 2025 Lionel Messi event at Salt Lake Stadium, and extended the interim protection till 2nd July. The case arises from an FIR filed by event organiser Satadru Dutta alleging criminal intimidation, extortion and abuse of official position by Biswas in the distribution of complimentary passes and interference in the organisation of the event. The appeal challenges the Single Judge's order granting protection from coercive action while directing Biswas to cooperate with the investigation.
Bengaluru Court Issues NBW Against Actor Prakash Raj In Electoral Roll Case
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: A Bengaluru court issued a non-bailable warrant (NBW) against actor Prakash Raj in a case alleging that he was enrolled as a voter in multiple assembly constituencies across different States and failed to disclose those details in his election affidavit. The Court found a prima facie case under Sections 31 and 125A of the Representation of the People Act, 1950, and issued the NBW after summons could not be served on the accused.
MP High Court Stays Arrest Warrant Against TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee In BJP Leader's Defamation Case
Source: Live Law
Development: The Madhya Pradesh High Court restored Abhishek Banerjee's petition challenging the arrest warrant issued against him in a criminal defamation case filed by Akash Vijayvargiya. Accepting Banerjee's explanation for his earlier non-appearance, the Court revived the petition and directed that the execution of the arrest warrant issued by the MP/MLA Court, Bhopal, shall remain pending adjudication. The defamation case arises from allegations that Banerjee referred to Vijayvargiya as a "goon" during a political rally in 2020.
'What About Minority?': Telangana High Court Seeks ECI Stand On Telugu-Only Enumeration Forms For SIR
Source: Live Law
Development: The Telangana High Court sought the Election Commission of India's response to a plea challenging the printing of Special Intensive Revision (SIR) enumeration forms exclusively in Telugu. Questioning the exclusion of linguistic minorities, the Court asked, "What about minority?", and directed the ECI to explain why bilingual or multilingual forms could not be provided beyond Hyderabad. The ECI submitted that English forms would be available on request and English, Urdu and Telugu versions could be accessed online, while the Court asked it to consider the petitioner's representation and listed the matter for 29th June.
DMK MLA Sekar Babu Withdraws Plea For Quashing FIR In Attempt To Murder Case For Allegedly Assaulting Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) Candidate
Source: Live Law
Development: P. K. Sekar Babu withdrew his plea before the Madras High Court seeking quashing of an FIR registered against him in an attempt to murder case involving the alleged assault on Sinora P. S. Ashok during polling for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. The Court indicated that it was not persuaded by the grounds for quashing and was inclined to dismiss the petition, following which Sekar Babu sought permission to withdraw it. The FIR alleges that he and his supporters attacked the TVK candidate and party workers outside an alliance party office, leading to charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Representation of the People Act.
'Even Apology Won't Wipe Away What You Said': Karnataka High Court Pulls Up BJP MLA Shri Basangouda Yatnal Over Comments On Ranya Rao
Source: Live Law
Development: The Karnataka High Court strongly criticised BJP MLA Shri Basangouda Patil Yatnal over his alleged vulgar remarks against actress Ranya Rao. The case arose after Yatnal, while commenting on the gold smuggling case in which Rao was arrested, allegedly claimed that she had concealed smuggled gold “wherever she had holes”, leading to an FIR under Section 79 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for insulting the modesty of a woman. Hearing his plea to quash the FIR, the Court observed that “even an apology won't wipe away what you said”, granted him two weeks to reconsider his conduct, continued the interim stay on further proceedings till 17th July, and questioned the factual basis of his remarks after noting that the investigation records did not support his allegations.
Madras High Court Reserves Order On Former Minister Ponmudi’s Plea Against Magistrate Taking Cognisance Of Hate Speech Complaint
Source: Live Law
Development: The Madras High Court reserved its order on former DMK Minister K. Ponmudy's plea challenging a Magistrate's decision to take cognisance of a hate speech complaint filed by BJP councillor Shri Uma Anandan. The complaint relates to Ponmudy's remarks on Saivism, Vaishnavism and women, for which the Magistrate had found a prima facie case and issued summons. During the hearing, the complainant argued that the speech deliberately promoted hatred against the Hindu religion and that issues relating to sanction and the ingredients of the offences should be decided during trial rather than at the quashing stage.
Minor Boys Also Not Safe: Karnataka HC Says It Will Scrap Vachanananda Swamiji's Anticipatory Bail In POCSO Case
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Karnataka High Court set aside the anticipatory bail granted to Vachanananda Swamiji in a POCSO case, holding that the Special Court had granted pre-arrest bail before the FIR was formally registered and without hearing the victim, contrary to the prescribed legal procedure. While cancelling the bail, the Court granted the accused three weeks' protection from arrest to enable him to apply for regular bail before the competent court.
Renukaswamy Murder Case: Karnataka High Court To Decide Whether Prosecution Can Cross-Examine Own Witness Without Declaring Her Hostile
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Supreme Court is hearing a plea filed by Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa seeking clarification of its earlier order permitting him to seek fresh bail after one year in the Renukaswamy murder case. Darshan has sought clarification that the observation should not prevent him from approaching lower courts for interim or medical bail while the trial remains pending.
Justice Manoj Jain To Replace Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma For MP/MLA Cases As Delhi HC Roster Changes
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Delhi High Court has revised its judicial roster with effect from July 1st, 2026, reassigning criminal cases involving sitting and former MPs and MLAs to Justice Manoj Jain. These matters were previously heard by Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma, who presided over several high-profile political cases, including proceedings arising from the Delhi Excise Policy case. Under the new roster, Justice Sharma will hear civil writ petitions, while Justice Jain will take over the designated MP/MLA criminal docket.
Assam Journalist Who ‘Defamed’ MLA Gets Bail From Gauhati High Court
Source: Indian Express
Development: The Gauhati High Court granted bail to a journalist arrested in an FIR alleging that he had been running a sustained campaign to defame the Lumding BJP MLA, used abusive language against the MLA and his family, and extorted money from alleged betel nut and drug mafias by threatening adverse media coverage. Observing that the investigation had substantially progressed, witness statements had been recorded, and the journalist had already spent 20 days in custody, the Court held that further detention was unnecessary. It granted bail subject to a ₹50,000 bond and directed the journalist not to contact or intimidate any witnesses.
Karnataka High Court Permits Proposed Basavakalyan Hindu Convention But Says Seer Adrushya Kadeshwara Swami Can't Give Speech
Source: Live Law
Development: A petition challenging an administrative denial of permission for a religious convention was reviewed by the Karnataka High Court. The Basavakalyan Tehsildar had originally prohibited the event, citing public order concerns because the guest invitee, Sri Adrushya Kadeshwara Swamiji, faced allegations of making provocative statements against the Lingayat community. In the order delivered on 25th June, 2026, the court stayed the prohibition and allowed the convention to proceed under strict guidelines on 28th June, 2026. The single-judge bench mandated that the gathering must be limited to 2,500 people, completely barred the guest seer from delivering any speech, and strictly prohibited any post-event procession or hate speech by any participant.
Countries In Global South, East Endure Pressure Not Evenly Applied To Wealthier Nations: CJI Surya Kant In Russia
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: An international legal address on institutional inequalities between sovereign nations was delivered by Chief Justice of India Shri Surya Kant at a forum in St Petersburg, Russia. The address highlighted that developing nations in the Global East and South frequently face disproportionate international scrutiny and political pressure while recovering from the historical repercussions of colonialism and poverty. In the lecture delivered on 24th June, 2026, noted that wealthier global states are rarely held to these same critical parameters despite possessing imperfect compliance records. He emphasized that the true measure of humanity within international law lies in providing every state with equal access to justice, rather than allowing treaties to merely reflect the organized will of stronger parties.
II. Details of Important Cases -
A. Supreme Court
'Go To Calcutta HC' : Supreme Court In Plea Against West Bengal Govt Move To Deny Ration For SIR-Excluded
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Supreme Court declined urgent listing of a petition challenging the West Bengal Government's alleged move to deny ration benefits to persons excluded from the electoral rolls during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR). The petition, filed by the Paschim Banga Khet Majoor Samity, claimed that exclusion from the voter list was being used to deny welfare benefits. The Court held that the grievance arose from a separate cause of action and directed the petitioner to approach the Calcutta High Court instead.
Won't Open Pandora's Box: Supreme Court On HP Judge's Challenge To Collegium Recommendations
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Supreme Court refused to interfere with the collegium’s decision regarding the elevation of judges to the Himachal Pradesh High Court and declined to entertain the petition filed by the judicial officer. The Court held that seniority alone does not confer a right to be recommended for elevation and that collegium decisions, based on subjective assessment and confidentiality, are not ordinarily amenable to judicial review. However, the petitioner was granted liberty to approach the competent authority of the High Court to ascertain the status of his candidature.
CBSE Class XII Boards : Supreme Court Disposes Plea As CBSE Brings Formula To Assess Private Students From Gulf
Source: LiveLaw
Verdict: The Supreme Court disposed of a writ petition after the Central Government notified a national policy to evaluate private candidates from Gulf countries whose examinations were cancelled due to regional conflict. The petitioner, a private candidate from Saudi Arabia, challenged the withholding of his results under the original assessment scheme designed only for regular students. The Solicitor General explained that private candidates lacked internal school records, necessitating a new formula notified on 21st June, 2026, which computes marks using a ratio of forty percent from Class X and sixty percent from Class XII performance. The court recorded that the petitioner’s updated results were declared, finalising the specific dispute.
MBBS: ‘Private Medical Colleges Will Close If Forced To Charge Only Govt Fee’: Supreme Court Rejects EWS Student’s Plea
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Supreme Court dismissed a plea by an Economically Weaker Section (EWS) NEET candidate seeking a direction to charge private medical colleges fees at par with Government medical colleges. The petitioner challenged the high tuition fees in Rajasthan’s private medical colleges despite securing EWS status and relied on an NMC Office Memorandum recommending Government-level fees for 50% of seats in private colleges. The Court held that self-financing institutions cannot be compelled to adopt the fee structure of Government colleges, observing that such a direction would undermine their financial viability and could force their closure. It further observed that EWS reservation guarantees access to admission, not concessional fees, and suggested that financially disadvantaged students may avail scholarships, Government support, or secure admission in Government medical colleges.
B. Rajasthan High Court
Ward Delimitation Must Be Based On Population, Not Number Of Voters: Rajasthan High Court
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Rajasthan High Court dismissed a petition challenging ward delimitation for upcoming municipal elections, holding that ward formation must be based on population and not the number of voters. The petitioner had alleged large disparities in voter strength across wards and claimed that reserved-category populations were concentrated in wards with higher voter numbers, affecting equal representation. However, the Court noted that Section 9 of the Rajasthan Municipalities Act, 2009 mandates delimitation on the basis of population, and observed that a ward may have a larger population but fewer registered voters. Finding the challenge founded on an incorrect assumption that wards should be determined by voter count, the Court dismissed the plea.
C. Madras High Court
Islam Convert Can't Claim Backward Class Muslim Status: Madras High Court
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Madras High Court struck down a 2024 Tamil Nadu Government Order that allowed persons from Backward Classes, Most Backward Classes, Denotified Communities and Scheduled Castes to be recognised as Backward Class Muslims after converting to Islam, holding it unconstitutional and ruling that a convert to Islam cannot claim the status of a Backward Class Muslim. The Court held that the executive cannot override binding judicial precedents through a Government order, observed that membership of recognised Muslim communities is determined by birth and not conversion, and upheld the Tahsildar’s rejection of the petitioner's request for a Muslim Lebbai community certificate. The bench also noted that when a Hindu converts to Islam, he becomes “just a mussalman” and his place in muslim society is not determined by his previous caste.
Madras High Court Strikes Down Tamil Nadu Law Requiring Registrar To Verify Title Before Property Registration
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Madras High Court struck down Section 34C of the Registration Act, 1908, inserted through the Registration (Tamil Nadu Amendment) Act, 2026, holding it unconstitutional, manifestly arbitrary, and violative of Articles 14 and 300A of the Constitution. The provision required executors to produce original title documents and a recent encumbrance certificate before registration of immovable property, effectively empowering registering authorities to examine title disputes. The Court held that the amendment was merely a resurrection of Rule 55A, which had already been struck down by the High Court and the Supreme Court, and ruled that determining title is an exclusive judicial function that cannot be vested in registering officers. Observing that the provision imposed unreasonable restrictions on the constitutional right to property and violated the doctrine of separation of powers, the Court declared Section 34C ultra vires and invalid.
D. Gujarat High Court
After 47 Years, Gujarat High Court Holds Baroda's Narsinhji Temple As Public Trust; Rejects Claim By Late Priest's Son Over Temple Properties
Source: LiveLaw
Verdict: The Gujarat High Court dismissed 47-year-old appeals filed by the legal heirs of the late priest of Baroda's Narsinhji Temple, holding that the temple is a public trust and rejecting their claim over the temple properties. The dispute arose from the Mahant's claim that the temple and its attached properties were private assets, whereas devotees maintained that the temple was a public place of worship and the properties formed part of the public trust. The Court held that the appellant, being only the son of the late Mahant, had no legal right to inherit the properties, found no evidence supporting the claim of private ownership, and termed the prolonged litigation an abuse of the judicial process.
E. Allahabad High Court
Only Parliament Can Modify SC List: Allahabad High Court Rejects Plea To Treat Nishad, Kevat As Synonyms Of 'Majhwar' Caste
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Allahabad High Court dismissed a plea seeking to treat Nishad, Kashyap, Kewat, Mallah and Bind as synonyms of the Scheduled Caste ‘Majhwar’, holding that only Parliament can amend or modify the list of Scheduled Castes under Article 341. The Court ruled that neither the State nor the courts can recognise unlisted castes as synonyms of notified Scheduled Castes, and noted that the petitioner had suppressed the fact that the 2005 State notification relied upon had been rescinded in 2007.
'Individual Interest Must Yield': Allahabad High Court Refuses To Halt UP Govt's '24 Kosi' Pilgrimage Route For Proposed Cold Storage
Source: Live Law
Development: The Allahabad High Court refused to restrain construction of the Uttar Pradesh Government's 24 Kosi Vansh Gopal Teerth Parikrama Marg in Sambhal, holding that the pilgrimage route is an important public project and that individual interest must yield to larger public interest. Rejecting a plea by landowners seeking to protect land proposed for a private cold storage, the Court directed the District Magistrate to demarcate the portion of land required for the project and clarified that the petitioners could construct the cold storage only on the remaining land, subject to law.
G. Delhi High Court
Delhi HC Permits 15-Year-Old Rape Survivor To End 28-Week Pregnancy
Source: The New Indian Express
Verdict: The Delhi High Court permitted a 15-year-old rape survivor to medically terminate her 28-week pregnancy, holding that although the law ordinarily prohibits termination beyond 24 weeks, such relief could be granted in exceptional cases involving grave mental trauma to a minor. Relying on the AIIMS Medical Board's opinion that the girl was medically fit for the procedure, the Court directed AIIMS to carry out the termination and preserve the foetal tissue for DNA testing in the criminal case. It further directed that if the child is born alive, authorities must provide medical care, involve the Child Welfare Committee, and facilitate adoption if desired by the survivor and her father.
H. Madhya Pradesh High Court
Madhya Pradesh High Court Closes Defamation Case Against Rahul Gandhi After He Expresses Regret
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Madhya Pradesh High Court closed the defamation proceedings against Rahul Gandhi after he expressed regret over his 2018 election campaign statement allegedly linking Kartikey Singh Chauhan to the Panama Papers controversy. Taking note of Gandhi's clarification and Kartikey Singh Chauhan's decision not to pursue the matter further, the Court also directed closure of the pending trial court proceedings.
MP High Court Restores Permission For Muharram Procession And Fair In Indore
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Madhya Pradesh High Court restored permission for the traditional Muharram Taazia procession and three-day mela at Indore's Dhobi Ghat, setting aside the Mayor-in-Council's resolution that had revoked the permission a day before the event. The Court held that the Municipal Corporation acted arbitrarily by cancelling a permission already granted without issuing notice or hearing the organisers, despite the committee having conducted the procession and fair for several years after obtaining official approval. Observing that the Corporation failed to establish any violation of previous conditions, the Court restored the permission, directed the organisers to apply at least two-and-a-half months in advance from next year, and instructed the Corporation to decide such applications at least 30 days before the event.
I. Kerala High Court
Kerala High Court Dismisses PIL Against Free KSRTC Bus Travel for Women, Transgender Persons
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Kerala High Court refused to quash the State Government's “Priyadarshini Scheme” providing free bus travel to all women and transgender persons in ordinary KSRTC buses. The Court dismissed the PIL challenging the scheme as arbitrary, discriminatory, and violative of Articles 14 and 15 of the Constitution. The petitioner argued that the scheme lacked any income criterion or policy justification and imposed a significant financial burden on the public exchequer, while the State defended it as a form of constitutionally permissible gender-based affirmative action consistent with similar schemes in other States.
Kerala High Court Invalidates Thiruvananthapuram Councillors' Oaths Taken In Name Of Deities, Martyrs And Political Movements
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Kerala High Court has invalidated the oath taken by 20 BJP councillors in the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation after they invoked specific deities and martyrs while taking the oath of office, and directed them to retake the oath within four weeks. The Court the oath must conform to the prescribed statutory form under the Kerala Municipality Act, 1994. The Court directed protecting the validity of the councillors' actions taken so far under Section 531 of the Act. The order came in response to a petition filed by Deepak SP, Parliamentary Party Leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) in the Corporation Council. Following the development, the councillors retook the oath.
Kerala High Court Rejects Petition Challenging Congress MP KC Venugopal's Election
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Kerala High Court rejected a petition challenging Congress leader KC Venugopal’s 2024 Lok Sabha election victory from the Alappuzha constituency. The petitioner, former MP AM Ariff, had alleged corrupt practices during the election campaign; however, the Court dismissed the petition at the threshold under Order VII Rule 11 of the Code of Civil Procedure, holding that it was liable to be rejected without examining its merits.
J. Bombay High Court
Bombay High Court Fines State ₹5 Lakh For Arguing IIT Powai Soil Case On Non-Existent Law
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Bombay High Court quashed a ₹54.08 lakh penalty imposed on IVRCL for excavation work at IIT Bombay, holding that the State had issued the show-cause notice by invoking a non-existent statute and statutory provision, rendering it fundamentally without jurisdiction. The Court further held that Section 48(7) of the Maharashtra Land Revenue Code was wrongly invoked since the excavated earth was transported only within the IIT campus and was neither commercially exploited nor removed from the premises. Criticising the State for pursuing nearly a decade of avoidable litigation and failing to file a reply for over eight years, the Court imposed costs of ₹5 lakh, directed payment within four weeks, and sought an affidavit detailing systemic corrective measures.
H. Other Courts and Tribunals
Hyderabad Court Grants Union Minister’s Son Interim Bail In Pocso Case
Source: Bar and Bench, ANI
Verdict: A special Protection of Children from Sexual offences (POCSO) court in Hyderabad granted interim bail to Bandi Sai Bageerath, who is facing prosecution under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, to enable him to appear for his BBA examinations. The Court directed that he remain on interim bail until 25th June and surrender back to judicial custody thereafter. Bageerath was arrested in May following allegations of sexual assault made in a complaint filed by the girl's mother. Before his arrest, the Telangana High Court had declined to grant him interim protection from arrest despite his contention that the relationship was consensual and that the applicability of the POCSO Act was disputed.
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