The week of 25–30 May 2026 witnessed significant judicial developments across the Supreme Court and various High Courts on matters relating to electoral processes, examination reforms, environmental governance, criminal justice, constitutional rights, and public administration. Key proceedings included the Supreme Court’s scrutiny of the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, challenges to the National Education Policy’s language framework, action against illegal sand mining, and important rulings concerning electoral roll revision, judicial administration, and individual rights.
This edition of India Judiciary Watch provides a concise overview of the week’s major legal developments, notable judgments, and institutional updates shaping India’s legal and governance landscape.
I. Key Legal Developments
SC Seeks Accountability from NTA Over NEET Paper Leak As Centre Flags Prime Ministerial Oversight
Source: The Indian Express, Times of India
Development: The Supreme Court issued notice to the Centre, the NTA, and the monitoring committee constituted after the 2024 NEET-UG controversy while hearing petitions over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak. Expressing concern over repeated irregularities, the bench remarked that the authorities appeared not to have learnt their lessons despite earlier judicial directions and reform recommendations. The Court directed the NTA and the committee headed by Dr K Radhakrishnan to file affidavits within three days detailing steps taken to implement the prescribed reforms. Petitions filed in the matter sought structural changes in the examination system, including restructuring the NTA and ensuring stricter oversight of the re-conducted examination. Concurrently, the Centre confirmed that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji is personally overseeing structural modifications to restore systemic credibility.
Supreme Court Seeks Centre's Response On PIL To Ban Child Employment In Dance Bars, Spas
Source: Live Law
Development: The Supreme Court of India issued a notice to the Union Government regarding a public interest litigation filed by NGO Just Rights for Children Alliance seeking a total ban on the employment of children under 18 years of age in entertainment and hospitality sectors, including dance bars, spas, orchestras, and massage parlours. Characterising the matter as a serious issue, the three judge bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant considered arguments to expand the scope of schedule of prohibited occupations under the Child and Adolescent Labour Act. The petition specifically seeks the transfer of Entry 52 which covers massage parlours, gymnasiums, recreational centres, and medical facilities, from Part B (regulated occupations) to Part A (prohibited occupations) of the Schedule, thereby imposing a complete ban on child labour in these sectors. The petitioner argues that such measures are necessary to protect minors from abuse, trafficking, and exploitation.
Supreme Court Allows Vinesh Phogat To Participate In Asian Games Trials But Questions Her For Missing Doping Tests
Source: Live Law, Bar and Bench
Development: A two-judge bench of the Supreme Court refused to stay a Delhi High Court order allowing wrestler Vinesh Phogat to participate in the Asian Games selection trials commencing on 30th May, 2026. The bench dismissed the Wrestling Federation of India's urgent appeal against the lower Court's decision, which had deemed the federation's restrictive eligibility policies exclusionary following her maternity break. However, the apex Court strongly criticised Phogat for a serious lapse in missing mandatory International Testing Agency doping tests and failing to provide accurate whereabouts information. While permitting her participation to avoid impeding her career, the Court issued notice to Phogat, scheduling a comprehensive review of the sports integrity issues.
Kejriwal, Sisodia Rejoin Excise Policy Case Proceedings Before Delhi High Court
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Delhi High Court recorded that AAP leaders Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, and Durgesh Pathak will participate in the excise policy proceedings before Justice Manoj Jain. The bench noted that vakalatnamas had been filed on their behalf and adjourned the matter to 16th July, 2026 to frame a hearing schedule. This development follows Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma’s recusal from the case on 14th May, 2026, after she initiated contempt proceedings against several AAP leaders over statements made during the course of the proceedings.
Banke Bihari Temple: Supreme Court Asks UP Government for Holistic Development Plan
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Supreme Court directed the Uttar Pradesh Government to formulate a comprehensive infrastructure plan for Vrindavan's Banke Bihari temple area. The bench ordered that the plan must incorporate road widening, commercial regulation, civic amenities, and advanced crowd management to navigate the temple's highly congested narrow alleys. The directive arose during an ongoing legal challenge against the state's legislative move to take over temple administration via a statutory trust framework. Seeking to resolve a prolonged representation conflict between two internal priest factions, the Court restructured the temple committee by nominating two new members each from the rival Shayan Bhog and Raj Bhog Goswami groups.
Supreme Court Takes Note Of News Report On Continued Illegal Mining In Chambal Sanctuary, Issues Further Directions
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Supreme Court issued a comprehensive set of directions under Article 142 during a suo motu hearing regarding illegal sand mining in the National Chambal Sanctuary. Responding to reports of continuous violations, the Court ordered Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh to fill field level forest vacancies within one year and establish round the clock technological surveillance. Expanding criminal accountability, the bench directed comprehensive investigations against owners, contractors, and financiers of vehicles. Furthermore, the Court instructed states to explore prosecution immunity for frontline forest guards and implement local socio economic, skill development, and eco tourism schemes to reduce community reliance on mining cartels.
Plea In Supreme Court Seeks CBI Investigation Against Cockroach Janta Party Activities And Fake Advocates
Source: Live Law, The Indian Express
Development: A PIL was filed seeking a Central Bureau of Investigation probe into the Cockroach Janta Party internet movement and the proliferation of fake law degrees. The petitioner contended that oral remarks made by Chief Justice Surya Kant regarding professional standards were selectively clipped, stripped of context and commercially exploited through trademark applications, meme merchandising, and monetised digital content. While clarifying that the plea does not target legitimate satirical dissent, the petitioner argued that transforming real-time Courtroom exchanges into commercial digital property compromises judicial institutional integrity, urging federal intervention against organised deception and the commercialisation of dynamic judicial proceedings.
Centre Seeks Transfer of Challenges to Transgender Amendment Act From High Courts to Supreme Court
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Supreme Court heard submissions from the Central Government seeking to consolidate and transfer all pending challenges against the Transgender Persons Amendment Act, 2026, from various high Courts to the apex Court. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta requested Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi to list the transfer petition for urgent hearing to prevent divergent regional judicial rulings. Chief Justice Kant expressed reservation about an immediate consolidation, observing that the Supreme Court frequently benefits from examining the foundational legal reasoning and diverse viewpoints of provincial high Courts. The bench ultimately declined to pass immediate orders, stating it would consider the request.
Supreme Court Seeks CBSE, NCERT Response on Challenge to Mandatory Three-Language Policy for Classes 6 to 9
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Supreme Court has sought responses from the Union Government, CBSE and NCERT on a plea challenging the mandatory three-language policy introduced for students of Classes 6 to 9 under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 framework. Issuing notice the bench flagged concerns regarding the logistical feasibility of implementing the policy, including availability of teachers, textbooks and evaluation mechanisms. The petitioners, comprising parents and teachers, argued that the revised framework would impose an additional academic burden mid-session and disrupt existing language combinations followed by students across the country. The Court directed the authorities to file comprehensive replies and listed the matter for hearing in July after the summer vacation.
Supreme Court Issues Notice On Plea Seeking Turnover Based Penalty For Sale Of Unsafe And Adulterated Food
Source: Live Law
Development: The Supreme Court issued notices to the Union Government and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India regarding a public interest litigation seeking stricter penalties for food adulteration. The bench entertained the petition which demands that financial penalties for manufacturing or selling unsafe food products should be calculated based on the annual turnover of the corporate offender rather than fixed statutory amounts. The petitioner argued that current flat fines fail to deter large multinational corporations that repeatedly violate food safety standards. The top Court sought detailed responses from the regulatory authorities on implementing a proportional penalty framework to safeguard public health.
Supreme Court Examines Parsi Woman's Plea Against Fire Temple Entry Ban After Inter Faith Marriage
Source: Live Law
Development: A three judge bench of the Supreme Court agreed to hear a constitutional challenge against rules barring Parsi women from entering Zoroastrian fire temples following inter faith marriage. The petitioner challenges Rule 5(2) of the Nagpur Parsi Panchayat constitution, which strips women of their religious identity upon marrying outside the faith, a restriction not applied to men. The Court noted that such excommunication is prima facie discriminatory, engaging fundamental rights to equality and religious freedom.
Plea Before Supreme Court Seeks BCI Framework To Call Out Fake Advocates
Source: Live Law
Development: A public interest litigation petition was filed in the Supreme Court seeking a time bound, uniform nationwide framework for verifying advocate enrollment records and educational degrees. The petitioner requested judicial intervention following statements by the Bar Council of India leadership indicating that thirty five to forty percent of practicing advocates may hold fake, forged, or unverifiable credentials. The plea urges the Court to direct the regulatory body to establish a transparent, privacy compliant national database of verified lawyers. The petition contentiously claims that the pervasive absence of digital verification mechanisms creates regulatory opacity, severely impacting state bar council elections and eroding public trust in the judicial delivery system.
Delhi High Court Records Centre's Assurance on Delhi Gymkhana Club Eviction
Source: The Indian Express
Development: The Delhi High Court recorded the central Government statement that no forcible eviction or sudden police takeover will happen at the Delhi Gymkhana Club. Justice Avneesh Jhingan termed the petitions premature, issued summons, and directed the Central Government to file written responses within eight weeks. Club members and the former elected governing body had approached the Court against a 22nd May notice from the Land and Development Office, which terminated the perpetual lease and ordered them to vacate the twenty-seven acre property by 5th June for defence and security needs. The Court noted that formal eviction under the Public Premises Act has not started and will require prior legal notice.
Unnao Rape Case: Sengar Was Not Public Servant In Area Where Incident Reported, Counsel Argues Before Delhi HC
Source: Live Law
Development: The Delhi High Court heard arguments on the final conviction appeal filed by former legislator Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the Unnao rape case. On 26th May, 2026, Sengar's counsel argued that the trial Court erroneously awarded an aggravated life sentence under Section 376(2) of the Indian Penal Code, which specifically targets public servants. The defense asserted that Sengar was an MLA from the Bangarmau constituency, whereas the alleged offense occurred in the Safipur assembly area, meaning he was not a functioning public servant there. Following the Supreme Court's mandate to decide the case expeditiously, the division bench scheduled the final arguments.
Delhi HC Orders Jails To Use Aadhaar QR Code Scanning Apps For Faster Release Of Prisoners Who Get Bail
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Delhi High Court issued directions to prison authorities to implement automated biometric authentication applications to expedite the release of prisoners granted bail. The bench ordered all jails within the national capital territory to utilise secure verification systems capable of scanning quick response codes on identity documents to instantly validate the credentials of accused persons and sureties. The Court observed that administrative delays in manually verifying identity tokens cause unnecessary, unlawful detention of individuals who have already secured judicial bail orders. The bench mandated the immediate procurement of compatible scanning hardware to streamline prison release protocols and eliminate bureaucratic bottlenecks.
Delhi High Court Directs X User To Take Down Tweet Against Senior Advocate Gaurav Bhatia Over His TV Appearance
Source: Live Law
Development: The Delhi High Court on 29th May, 2026, ordered a social media user to immediately delete a tweet posted against senior advocate and politician Gaurav Bhatia concerning his appearance on a television debate. The plaintiff argued that the December post willfully violated an existing interim injunction issued on 25th September, 2025, which restrained the dissemination of defamatory content stemming from the broadcast incident. While the defense contended that the publication was protected satirical commentary rather than obscene material, the Court found that allowing the text to remain online would cause immediate prejudice, directing its removal across all digital platforms before the upcoming judicial recess.
ED Raids Former Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan's Houses in CMRL Pay-Off Case
Source: The Hindu
Development: The Kerala High Court dismissed a petition filed by Cochin Minerals and Rutile Limited seeking to quash a money laundering probe initiated by the Enforcement Directorate. Hours after the High Court cleared the legal hurdle, the federal agency deployed armed central security forces to conduct early morning searches across 12 locations, including the residences of former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in Kannur and Thiruvananthapuram. The independent investigation focuses on whether payments made by the private mining company to a defunct information technology consultancy firm owned by the political leader's daughter constituted illegal payouts and generated proceeds of crime.
Twisha Sharma Dowry Death Probe Intensifies as HC Revokes Bail, CBI Obtains Custody
Source: The Hindu, Bar and Bench, Bar and Bench
Development: Following the Supreme Court’s suo motu cognizance of the Twisha Sharma dowry death case, amid nationwide outrage over allegations of dowry harassment and abetment to suicide, the Madhya Pradesh High Court quashed the anticipatory bail of her mother-in-law, retired judge Giribala Singh, citing WhatsApp chats, non-cooperation and ante-mortem injuries. The Supreme Court was informed by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta that Singh was allegedly maligning the deceased and refusing to cooperate with the investigation despite repeated attempts to record her statement. Consequently, the CBI arrested Singh after a seven-hour interrogation. A Bhopal court has remanded her and her husband, Samarth Singh, who had earlier absconded, to five days of CBI custody until June 2 for face-to-face confrontation and digital crime-scene reconstruction.
DHCBA Moves Delhi High Court Against Formation Of Judges' Committee On Pecuniary Jurisdiction Issue
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Delhi High Court Bar Association filed a petition challenging a full Court decision to establish a six-judge committee tasked with studying a proposal to raise the pecuniary jurisdiction of district Courts from ₹2 crore to ₹20 crore. The plea argues that the administrative decision lacked justification and wrongly took cognisance of a district bar letter addressed to the Union Law Ministry instead of the High Court. The association contends that altering financial litigation thresholds is an exclusive legislative function outside the authority of the judiciary.
Supreme Court Questions Centre's Delay In Notifying Commercial Court Rules 2021, Says HCs May Consider Setting Up District Execution Cells
Source: Live Law
Development: The Supreme Court of India took serious note of the Union Government’s prolonged failure to notify the draft Commercial Courts Rules, 2021. A bench took suo motu cognizance of the issue, highlighting that the country faces a massive challenge regarding the slow and ineffective disposal of execution petitions. To address these systemic delays in enforcing decrees, the top Court suggested that various High Courts should consider establishing dedicated "District Execution Cells." This initiative reflects the Court's broader push to streamline commercial litigation and ensure that the ultimate execution of Court orders is handled expeditiously across districts.
Sabarimala Gold Theft: Kerala High Court Says It Will Not Cancel Thantri Kandararu Rajeevaru's Bail
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Kerala High Court issued an oral order indicating its disinclination to cancel the bail previously granted to senior temple priest Kandararu Rajeevaru in the Sabarimala gold misappropriation case. Justice A Badharudeen observed that while the bench may expunge the trial Court's adverse remarks against the Special Investigation Team, it will not revoke the priest's liberty. The state Government had challenged the Kollam vigilance Court's bail order, arguing that the trial Court conducted a mini trial and ignored evidence linking the priest to a prime accused who allegedly oversaw fraudulent repairs that diminished the weight of sacred gold clad artefacts.
Odisha, Chhattisgarh AGs Hold Meet in Puri to Submit Report to Mahanadi Tribunal
Source: New Indian Express
Development: The advocate generals of Odisha and Chhattisgarh held a high-level meeting in Puri to resolve the long-pending Mahanadi river water sharing dispute. The talks concluded with substantial progress toward an amicable settlement on several core issues. Both states intend to submit a joint consensus report during the upcoming Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal hearing. While technical committee negotiations have commenced, subsequent discussions will transition to ministerial-level panels. The ongoing conflict centres on Odisha claims that upstream barrages built by Chhattisgarh reduce water flow during non-monsoon months, threatening lower basin agriculture.
Week After Raids Over ₹350 Crore Procurement Irregularities, CAT Stays DGHS Transfer
Source: The Indian Express
Development: The Central Administrative Tribunal on 27th May, 2026, stayed the transfer order issued by the Lieutenant Governor office against Dr Vatsala Aggarwal, who was removed as Director General of Health Services for Delhi and kept under awaiting posting status. The tribunal ruled that the applicant established a strong prima facie case for interim relief, noting that sudden removal without a substantive replacement posting causes irreparable prejudice ahead of her upcoming ex-officio duties conducting local medical council elections. The administrative challenge followed extensive vigilance raids at the subordinate Central Procurement Agency over alleged multi crore financial irregularities, where the officer actively cooperated with investigators while noting that the specific tender files remained under independent custody.
Supreme Court Seeks Response From Centre, BCI On Plea For Safety Of Women Lawyers In Police Stations
Source: Bar And Bench
Development: The Supreme Court issued notices to the Center, States, and the Bar Council of India regarding a petition demanding safety guidelines for female lawyers at police stations. The plea argues that a lack of legal protection leaves women advocates vulnerable to police intimidation and harassment, obstructing their right to practice law. Highlighting recent incidents in Noida and Karnataka as systemic failures, the petition calls for mandatory standard operating procedures. Proposed measures include late-hour CCTV surveillance, mandatory presence of women police officers, complaint redressal mechanisms and a uniform Standard Operating Procedure governing police interaction with advocates. The petitioner argues that the lack of such safeguards infringes the constitutional rights of women advocates and warrants judicial intervention similar to the guidelines framed in the Vishaka v. State of Rajasthan case.
Arunachal To Create Separate ILP Department To Protect Tribal Rights Says CM Khandu
Source: India Today NE
Development: Chief Minister Shri Pema Khandu announced that the Arunachal Pradesh Government will establish a separate department dedicated exclusively to the Inner Line Permit system which is an official travel document issued by concerned state Governments that allows an Indian citizen to visit or stay in a protected state for a specific, limited duration. The decision followed a seven hour consultative meeting with student bodies, legal experts, and community organisations responding to a violent 36 hour shutdown over the Inner Line Permit Guidelines, 2026. The administration accepted in principle four primary demands raised by the indigenous rights committee, including stricter entry regulations, checking illegal immigration, and denying tribal status to non-indigenous groups. A multi-stakeholder follow-up meeting was scheduled for 29th May to draft a formal implementation roadmap.
Supreme Court Stays Delhi HC Direction Allowing Law Students With Low Attendance To Sit For Exams
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Supreme Court stayed a Delhi High Court order that prohibited law colleges and universities from debarring students from examinations due to inadequate attendance. The bench issued notice on a Bar Council of India appeal against the November 2025 High Court judgment, ordering a prospective interim stay on the underlying operational directives. The apex Court observed that the high Court had essentially entered the legislative domain rather than interpreting existing rules, creating significant operational challenges for elite law campuses and National Law Universities nationwide. The Court noted that relaxing academic thresholds would compromise classroom discipline and institutional standards.
Supreme Court To Examine Minimum Cut-off Marks In Judicial Service Interview, Seeks State-wise Data
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Supreme Court agreed to examine whether prescribing a minimum qualifying threshold in interview rounds for judicial service recruitment is legally permissible.The bench heard a petition by Ajay Kumar Shyamkishor challenging the viva voce cut-off after he missed selection despite securing the third-highest marks in the written exam. The bench noted that the issue would be clubbed with a pending case before a three-judge bench addressing larger systemic inefficiencies and public costs in judicial appointments.
State Tells Madras High Court Mechanisms Will Be Developed For Speedy Trial In Crimes Against Women And Children
Source: Live Law
Development: The Tamil Nadu Government informed the Madras High Court that it is giving top priority to cases of assault against women and children by establishing infrastructure to fast-track trials. The vacation bench recorded the submissions of the Advocate General, who requested two to three weeks to formulate a comprehensive proposal, including increasing forensic laboratories and strengthening the police force. The Court was hearing a petition by a sexual assault survivor seeking the enforcement of the mandatory two-month trial timeline under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita. The bench ordered a specific trial Court to decide pending discharge pleas within seven days and conclude the case by July.
Bengaluru Court Grants DK Shivakumar Two Year Permission For Foreign Travel In Income Tax Case
Source: Live Law
Development: A Bengaluru Court permitted the Chief Minister of Karnataka Shri DK Shivakumar to travel abroad for a period of two years. The Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate allowed the application under a 2017 tax evasion case, modifying a bail condition that restricted foreign travel without judicial consent. Invoking the legal doctrine of parity, the Court observed that a co-accused in the same matter had already been granted a similar relaxation. The bench considered his business requirements and ministerial portfolios as genuine grounds for travel, directing him to submit his detailed travel itineraries periodically to the investigating agency.
Delhi Court Issues Notice To Assam CM, Delhi Police On Plea Seeking FIR Over Hate Speech
Source: Live Law
Development: A Delhi Sessions Court issued notices to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and the Delhi Police on a revision petition filed by activist Harsh Mander, seeking the registration of a FIR over alleged hate speech. The petition relates to remarks allegedly made by the Assam CM during a speech in Digboi, Assam, concerning “Miya” voters and their participation in the electoral process. Additional Sessions Judge acted on an appeal challenging a magistrate Court order that had dismissed the complaint on the ground that the statements were made outside its territorial jurisdiction. The petitioner argued that Section 173(1) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), along with the Ministry of Home Affairs’ Zero FIR framework, permits information regarding a cognisable offence to be lodged at any police station irrespective of where the incident occurred. The Court has sought responses from the Assam CM and the Delhi Police and listed the matter for hearing on 15th July.
Kolkata NIA Court Sends 15 Accused In Malda Attack Case To Two-Week Custody
Source: Live Law
Development: A special NIA Court in Kolkata remanded 15 persons arrested in connection with the alleged attack and illegal detention of judicial officers during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in West Bengal’s Malda district to two weeks’ custody. The NIA is probing the alleged conspiracy behind the 1st April violence at the Mothabari Block Office, where judicial officers engaged in electoral roll revision work were allegedly confined and attacked by a mob. The Supreme Court had earlier termed the incident a serious assault on the administration of justice, following which the Election Commission transferred the probe to the NIA.
Allahabad HC Seeks UP Govt’s Reply On Habeas Corpus Plea Of Journalist Arrested In Noida Protest Case
Source: Live Law
Development: The Allahabad High Court has sought a response from the Uttar Pradesh Government on a habeas corpus petition filed by journalist Satyam Verma, who was arrested for allegedly inciting violence during the Noida workers’ protest. A division bench issued notice to the State authorities and granted time to file a counter affidavit. The plea, filed through Verma’s wife, challenges his arrest, detention and remand, alleging procedural irregularities in the custodial process. The matter has been listed for further hearing on 13th July, 2026.
PIL Plea Filed Against Deposit of Temple Funds in State-Owned Non Banking Finance Corporations
Source: The Hindu
Development: The Madras High Court admitted a public interest litigation petition challenging the transfer of surplus temple funds into state owned financial institutions. The petition seeks to quash a 17th February, 2026 Government amendment allowing the diversion of hundreds of crores of rupees of religious endowments into low rated non banking finance corporations used for funding financially distressed state transport and power sectors. Acknowledging that the petition raises important legal questions regarding asset safety, the bench directed the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments department to file its counter affidavit within one week ahead of a final hearing.
Supreme Court Review of Wetland Conservation Rules, 2017
Source: Live Law
Development: The Supreme Court agreed to examine the constitutional validity of the Wetlands Conservation and Management Rules 2017. On 27th May, 2026, details emerged regarding a public interest petition asserting that Rule 2(g) arbitrarily excludes human made and artificial waterbodies from legal protection. The petitioner argues this framework violates India's commitments under the 1971 Ramsar Convention, which mandates protecting natural and artificial wetlands equally. The plea emphasises that the decentralised 2017 rules allow state authorities to exploit loopholes, threatening thirty nine of India's ninety four Ramsar sites and violating the principle of non regression by weakening protections previously granted under the older 2010 regulatory framework.
Madras High Court Seeks Election Commission Stance On Appeal To Children For Votes In Tamil Nadu Polls
Source: Live Law
Development: The Madras High Court sought a formal response from the Election Commission of India regarding the alleged exploitation of minor children in political campaigns. The bench issued notice on a public interest litigation petition inspired by recent Tamil Nadu assembly election events, where political leadership directly appealed to children to influence their families' voting choices. The petitioner claims such appeals constitute a corrupt electoral practice and violate child rights, leading to numerous social media videos of minors pressuring relatives. The Court directed the commission to clarify its regulatory stance on independent, time bound inquiries into political messaging targeting minors.
Allahabad High Court Refuses Interim Direction on Heightened Security for BJP Litigant Against Rahul Gandhi
Source: Live Law
Development: The Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court heard an application filed by a Karnataka based politician seeking an immediate upgrade to all India Z plus security cover. The central Government informed the division bench that the Ministry of Home Affairs is reconsidering and examining the applicant's representation afresh following subsequent threat developments. S. Vignesh Shishir, a BJP member who has initiated multiple litigations against political leader Rahul Gandhi, argued that his current protection consisting of a single armed officer is inadequate. The Court declined to pass interim directives, noting the ministry's ongoing evaluation and emphasising its legitimate expectation that the state will uphold the fundamental right to personal liberty.
Delhi High Court Orders Urgent Central Policy On Ninety One Unauthorised Colonies In Yamuna Floodplains
Source: Live Law
Development: The Delhi High Court declared the existence of residential colonies in Zone O of the Yamuna floodplains completely impermissible. The bench directed the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs to finalise a strategic policy regarding ninety one unauthorised colonies housing nearly 6 lakh people. While the ministry confirmed these colonies are excluded from regularisation, temporary statutory protection from demolition remains active until 31st December, 2026. The Court ordered a complete ban on fresh constructions or repairs, summoned responsible municipal engineers for permitting ongoing illegal structures, and mandated a joint departmental meeting on 8th June, 2026, to coordinate strict demolition drives before the next hearing.
Objectionable Remarks Against Women Case: HC Grants Interim Bail To Yograj Singh
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Punjab and Haryana High Court granted interim protection from arrest to actor and former cricketer Yograj Singh on 29th May, 2026, following a criminal case registered over derogatory comments against women in a viral web series clip. The petitioner approached the high Court after a lower Court dismissed his pre-arrest bail plea on 26th May, 2026. The actor argued that the dialogue belonged to a fictional scripted character and did not constitute personal expression, adding that the electronic nature of the evidence negated any need for custodial interrogation. The bench granted interim relief and scheduled the next hearing for 9th July, 2026.
Madhya Pradesh High Court Seeks Response From Centre, State After 8 Tigers Die In Kanha National Park
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Madhya Pradesh High Court issued notices to the Central Government, the State of Madhya Pradesh, and the National Tiger Conservation Authority regarding the sudden deaths of eight tigers. The bench heard a public interest litigation flagging critical administration lapses in Kanha National Park following the recent deaths of multiple felines, including an entire family infected with the contagious Canine Distemper Virus. The Court ordered the respondents to file a comprehensive reply within two weeks detailing the precise preventive and curative interventions executed to curb further viral transmissions, scheduling the matter for June.
Bengal CID Serves Summons To Abhishek Banerjee In Fake Signature Probe
Source: NDTV
Development: The West Bengal State Criminal Investigation Department served a formal notice to TMC General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee at his Kalighat residence. The investigative agency deployed personnel to deliver the administrative summons in connection with an ongoing forgery probe into allegedly falsified legislative documents. The controversy originated from complaints regarding fake signatures of multiple ruling party legislators on official papers proposing a senior leader for a key legislative position, prompting a police complaint from the assembly. Rejecting claims of evasion, the parliamentarian confirmed receipt of the summons and publicly maintained his availability at his residence to fully assist the statutory fact-finding inquiry.
II. Details of Important Cases
A. Supreme Court
Supreme Court Upholds Validity of SIR of Electoral Rolls, Says ECI Can Examine Citizenship
Source: Bar and Bench, Live Law
Verdict: The Supreme Court upheld the constitutional and statutory validity of the Election Commission of India. Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Bihar. A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi ruled that the poll body is empowered under Section 16 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 (RPA) to examine questions concerning citizenship during the preparation of voter lists. The Court clarified that such inquiries are strictly confined to the limited purpose of determining the inclusion or exclusion of individuals from the electoral rolls, rather than establishing deportation liabilities, and must respect the legal presumption operating in favour of existing electors.
Supreme Court and Madras High Court Address Demands for Anti-Cow Slaughter Law Enforcement Ahead of Bakrid
Verdict: The Supreme Court issued an order regarding the enforcement of anti-cow slaughter laws ahead of the Bakrid festival. In the apex Court, a bench of Justice J.B. Pardiwala and Justice R. Mahadevan refused an urgent listing for a plea seeking nationwide guidelines to prevent illegal slaughter, noting that adequate statutory provisions already exist. In a separate but similar case in Madras High Court, petition was disposed after an assurance from the Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary that illegal cow slaughter is strictly prohibited under the state animal preservation act and that rigorous monitoring mechanisms will be deployed.
Supreme Court Dismisses Plea Challenging Use Of Ballot Papers In Punjab Municipal Elections
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Supreme Court of India dismissed a special leave petition challenging the Punjab and Haryana High Court judgment that allowed local municipal elections to proceed via ballot papers instead of Electronic Voting Machines. The three judge bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant observed that since voting was scheduled for the next day, judicial interference would be completely impractical as all administrative arrangements were finalised. The bench clarified that the Punjab Municipal Election Rules of 1994 still explicitly permit the state election commission to utilise paper ballots, finding no jurisdictional error in the administration's discretion, and rejected fears of potential booth capturing as mere presumptions.
Supreme Court Refuses To Entertain Plea Over Punjab CM's Statement On Elimination Of Stray Dogs
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Supreme Court of India refused to entertain a petition challenging public remarks made by the Chief Minister of Punjab Shri Bhagwant Mann, regarding a massive campaign to eliminate stray dogs. The petitioner claimed that the Chief Minister publicly declared on social media that the top Court had given a free hand to eliminate stray dogs which the petitioner argued was a gross misinterpretation of the judicial order that only permitted the euthanasia of rabid, incurably ill, and demonstrably dangerous dogs under strict conditions However, the division bench declined to intervene or modify its existing orders based solely on political statements made outside the Court. The bench emphasised that it would not alter its judicial orders because of executive commentary and advised the petitioner to approach the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
SC Rejects Tamil Nadu's Review Plea In Mekedatu Dispute, Declines Open Court Hearing Request
Source: The Indian Express
Verdict: A three-judge apex Court bench, led by the Chief Justice, issued an order dismissing a review petition filed by the Tamil Nadu Government regarding the Mekedatu balancing reservoir project. The Court concurrently rejected an application, which sought an open Court oral hearing instead of the standard review consideration within judges' private chambers. The bench observed that the state failed to present sufficient grounds to warrant a reconsideration of the Court's previous order from 13th November, 2025, which had determined that Tamil Nadu's original petition against the preparation of a detailed project report was based on a misconception.
Girls Shouldn't Have To Give Up Education Due To Lack Of Sanitary Napkins In Schools: Supreme Court
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Supreme Court of India emphasised that young girls must not be forced to drop out of school or abandon their education due to a lack of access to sanitary pads and menstrual hygiene facilities. A bench directed the Union Government to strictly enforce its previous 30th January judgment, which mandated the provision of free sanitary napkins and gender-segregated toilets across all schools. To maintain strict oversight, the bench instructed the Centre to guide all States and Union Territories, collect relevant compliance data, and submit fresh status reports every three months.
Supreme Court Dismisses Plea Challenging Anticipatory Bail Granted To Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati In POCSO Case
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Supreme Court dismissed a petition challenging the pre-arrest bail granted to a religious leader in a POCSO case. The bench refused to interfere with the high Court order, ruling that the prolonged delay in filing the complaint combined with deep-rooted property and institutional management disputes pointed toward a prima facie case of malicious prosecution. The top Court observed that custody was entirely unnecessary for the investigation since the allegations stemmed from an old incident and occurred amidst an ongoing power struggle over control of the religious institution, thereby affirming the protection against arrest.
High Courts Must Pronounce Judgments Within Three Months Of Reserving Verdict; Bail Orders Must Be Pronounced In A Day
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Supreme Court issued a comprehensive set of binding guidelines to address chronic delays in the delivery of judgments by various High Courts. A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice Vipin M Pancholi directed that judgments must ordinarily be pronounced within three months of being reserved. The apex Court introduced stricter timelines for cases involving personal liberty, ruling that bail applications must ideally be decided on the same day or by the following day at the latest. Furthermore, the Court established procedural mechanisms allowing cases to be reallocated to different benches if these deadlines are breached without valid reasons.
Supreme Court Quashes Removal Of Hathiramji Mutt Mahant Arjun Dass; Orders Fresh Probe
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Supreme Court quashed the removal of Arjun Dass as the permanent Mathadhipati of the Sri Swamy Hathiramji Mutt in Tirupati. The bench ruled that the state administrative proceedings, which stripped his position over financial and management irregularities, violated principles of natural justice. The apex Court noted that the inquiry committee failed to supply the complete six hundred page dossier of evidence to the petitioner and carried out ex parte actions. Invoking Article 142, the top Court reinstated the custodian and appointed a retired judge to lead a fresh, independent investigation.
Settled And Vested Right: Supreme Court Dismisses Plea To Reopen Vantara Wildlife Transfer Case
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Supreme Court dismissed a miscellaneous application seeking to reopen investigations into international wildlife transfers involving the Vantara animal rehabilitation facility in Jamnagar. The bench ruled that a settled and vested right had accrued in favor of the facility and its management, rendering previous closures final. The bench also noted that a Court appointed Special Investigation Team had already exhaustively examined the transfers and cleared the institution of any statutory violations. Emphasising the bar of finality, the Court observed that repeated litigation based on uncorroborated social media claims cannot justify reopening concluded matters.
Supreme Court Sets Aside CCI's ₹202 Crore Penalty on Amazon in Future Coupons Deal Case
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Supreme Court set aside the ₹202 crore penalty imposed by the Competition Commission of India on Amazon regarding its 2019 investment in Future Coupons Private Limited. The bench allowed the appeal, quashing both the 2021 antitrust regulator directive and the subsequent 2022 National Company Law Appellate Tribunal order that sustained it. The Court ordered that any penalty amount already recovered or deposited must be refunded within eight weeks with 60% simple annual interest, escalating to 9% if delayed beyond the deadline.
Appellate Courts Must Personally Conduct Sentencing Upon Reversing Acquittal: Supreme Court
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Supreme Court ruled that when an appellate Court reverses an acquittal and finds an accused guilty, it must personally conduct the sentencing hearing. The bench set aside a Calcutta High Court order that had directed a convicted appellant to surrender to a trial Court in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands solely for sentencing determination. The Court observed that under Section 235 (2) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, an appellate Court recording a conviction for the first time carries a non-delegable statutory duty to hear the convict on the quantum of punishment rather than relegating the matter downward.
Supreme Court Upholds Levy of GST on Online Gaming, Says It's Taxable as 'Betting & Gambling'
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Supreme Court upheld the constitutional and statutory validity of levying Goods and Services Tax on online money gaming, fantasy sports, and casino transactions. The bench ruled that once money is staked on uncertain outcomes, even skill-based digital games acquire the character of betting and gambling under the fiscal framework. The Court held that operators function as suppliers of taxable actionable claims rather than mere intermediaries, affirming the 28% tax rate on full face value. The Court set aside a contrary Karnataka High Court judgment, declared the 2023 statutory amendments retrospectively applicable as clarificatory measures, and restored the original revenue show-cause notices.
Relatives Cannot Be Prosecuted Under Section 498A for Generic Matrimonial Advice: Supreme Court
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Supreme Court allowed an appeal filed by the in-laws, quashing domestic cruelty and dowry harassment proceedings pending against them in Madhya Pradesh. The bench held that relatives of a husband cannot be prosecuted for marital cruelty under Section 498A merely for advising a wife to adjust in her marriage or return to her parental home. The Court emphasised that omnibus, generalised allegations against relatives lacking specific overt acts cannot justify the continuation of a criminal prosecution, warning against the weaponisation of criminal law to settle personal familial grievances.
NI Act Office Bearer Of Society Not Liable For Cheque Dishonour Unless Active Role In Conduct Of Business Shown
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Supreme Court ruled that an individual holding a managerial position in a society cannot be held vicariously liable for a cheque bounce under Section 141 of the Negotiable Instruments Act based solely on their official designation. The bench established that complaints must demonstrate a clear factual basis showing the person was actively in charge of and responsible for day-to-day business affairs when the offence occurred. Consequently, the Court partly allowed the appeal, quashing criminal proceedings against a society executive member while sustaining the case against other office bearers whose direct financial involvement was explicitly documented.
Permission From Magistrate Necessary For Police To Conduct Further Investigation: Supreme Court Reiterates
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Supreme Court of India reiterated that police cannot proceed with a further investigation after filing a closure report without obtaining explicit permission from the concerned Magistrate. A bench set aside a Karnataka High Court judgment that had permitted an unauthorised investigation to continue against the appellant. The apex Court clarified that while the statutory text of the CrPC does not expressly mention this mandate, judicial precedents have firmly established seeking the Court's prior leave as a necessary requirement. Because the police launched a third round of investigation and filed a chargesheet without securing a magistrate's formal approval, the bench ruled the entire action invalid and an abuse of the legal process.
Right To Trauma Care Part Of Right To Life: Supreme Court Issues Directions For Uniform Road Accident Trauma Care
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Supreme Court issued extensive directions declaring that emergency trauma care is a fundamental component of the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution. The bench ordered all states and union territories to achieve full technical and operational integration of existing rescue and ambulance helplines into the unified emergency number 112 within three months. The Court further mandated the operationalisation of the PM RAHAT (Prime Minister Road Accident Victims' Hospitalisation and Assured Treatment) cashless healthcare treatment scheme within eight weeks, required full automotive compliance alongside satellite tracking links for registered public and private vehicles, and directed the formalisation of district level Good Samaritan grievance redressal systems.
Modifying Life Term Sentence As Fixed Sentence Permissible : Supreme Court
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Supreme Court reaffirmed that constitutional Courts possess the authority to modify a life imprisonment sentence into a specified fixed term once a convict completes fourteen years of incarceration. The bench partly allowed an appeal filed by convicts who spent 23 years in prison following a murder conviction in Gujarat. The Court explained that while a life term technically extends until a prisoner's natural life under the Indian Penal Code, it remains subject to sovereign remission powers. Consequently, the bench maintained the primary conviction but modified the sentence to the duration already undergone, ordering their immediate release.
Supreme Court Applies Estoppel To Challenge Of Arbitration Award Based On Mandate Expiry
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Supreme Court ruled on 26th May, 2026, that a party cannot challenge an arbitration award on the ground of mandate expiry, if they actively participated in proceedings after mutually agreeing to extend the arbitrator's tenure. The bench set aside a high Court order that had nullified an award due to technical timeline lapses under Section 29A of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act. The Court established that the principle of estoppel applies when a contesting entity deliberately waives regulatory deadlines, accepts the extension, and awaits the final outcome, preventing them from selectively weaponising procedural delays only after receiving an unfavorable verdict.
Supreme Court Acquits Two Death Row Convicts In Rape And Murder Case Citing Serious Infirmities In Prosecution
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Supreme Court acquitted two men who had been sentenced to death for the rape and murder of a woman, delivering its judgment. The three-judge bench set aside the orders of the trial Court and the Uttarakhand High Court, ruling that the prosecution failed to establish an unbroken chain of circumstantial evidence. The Apex Court highlighted serious investigation failures, including the complete absence of DNA profiling, unscientific blood group matching, unreliable recoveries, and a broken chain of custody. The Court noted that medical evidence proved one accused was incapable of sexual intercourse, rendering the conviction entirely unsafe.
Supreme Court Grants Relief to Reliance; Sets Aside Fraud Finding, ₹447 Crore Disgorgement in RPL Trades Case
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Supreme Court granted partial relief to Reliance Industries Limited by overturning a market regulator order to disgorge ₹447.27 crore in a dispute tracing back to 2007. A bench comprising Justice J.B. Pardiwala and Justice R. Mahadevan ruled that the Securities Appellate Tribunal committed an egregious error in sustaining previous findings of fraudulent and manipulative trading practices under the unfair trade regulations. While the apex Court completely quashed the fraud allegations and ordered a refund of ₹250 crore previously deposited by the conglomerate, it simultaneously upheld a separate ₹25 crore penalty for technical disclosure violations regarding derivatives position limits.
In-Laws Can't Be Prosecuted Under Section 498A IPC and DV Act Merely For Supporting Husband Or Asking Wife To Adjust
Source: Live Law
Verdict: On 25th May, 2026, the Supreme Court ruled that omnibus and generalised allegations lacking specific overt acts cannot justify prosecuting a husband's relatives. The division bench set aside a Madhya Pradesh High Court order, observing that allegations that family members merely supported the husband, failed to intervene, or advised the complainant to adjust do not automatically attract criminal liability under Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code or the Domestic Violence Act. The Court clarified that while protecting victims remains paramount, criminal law cannot be indiscriminately extended without a clear factual foundation.
B. Madras High Court
Madras High Court Dismisses Plea For Mandamus To State Government To File Curative Petition Against Acquittal Of Dashwanth
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Madras High Court dismissed a petition seeking a directive to the state Government to file a curative petition against the Supreme Court acquittal of the accused in a 2017 child rape and murder case, delivering its decision on 28th May, 2026. The vacation bench noted that the state Government had already decided to file the curative petition, making the plea infructuous. This entry serves as a direct follow-up to the earlier entry regarding the state decision. The Court observed that it could not issue a writ of mandamus when the state executive was already taking active legal steps to address the misrepresentation allegations.
C. Rajasthan High Court
Rajasthan High Court Rejects Asaram Claim That Media Propaganda Vitiated Trial, Upholds Life Imprisonment
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Rajasthan High Court dismissed an application seeking the suspension of sentence filed by self styled godman Asaram Bapu, who is serving a life term for raping a minor girl. A bench of Justices Pushpendra Singh Bhati and Munnuri Laxman rejected his plea, which sought temporary release to travel to Maharashtra for specialised ayurvedic medical treatment. The Court observed that his medical records do not indicate a critical emergency requiring immediate suspension of his conviction, especially since satisfactory medical attention can be arranged by jail doctors within the state prison facility.
C. Himachal Pradesh High Court
State Cannot Escape Liability For Unsafe Road Repair Work: Himachal Pradesh High Court Upholds Compensation For Youth Killed In Accident
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Himachal Pradesh High Court ruled that the State cannot escape liability for hazardous road conditions, upholding a ₹3.33 lakh compensation award for the mother of a youth killed in a 2009 motorcycle crash. Justice Sushil Kukreja found state authorities and the contractor negligent for failing to place warning signs, barricades, or lighting around a dug-up section of National Highway-20. The Court rejected the state's claim of reckless driving by the victim, noting that unmarked stones were left dangerously in the middle of the road. Additionally, the Court highlighted that the state Public Works Department failed to produce its measurement book to prove any safety measures were ever executed at the site.
D. Uttarakhand High Court
Uttarakhand High Court Rejects Plea For Engineering Post Via Compassionate Appointment, Rules It Cannot Be Used For Career Growth
Source: The Indian Express
Verdict: The Uttarakhand High Court dismissed a petition ruling that compassionate appointments cannot be utilised as an alternative mode of recruitment or a mechanism for career advancement. The Court affirmed that a compassionate job is a targeted socio-welfare measure specifically designed to help a deceased employee's family navigate sudden financial distress rather than secure future professional progression. The Court upheld a state Government order rejecting a junior assistant's demand to be reappointed as a junior engineer after upgrading his qualifications, clarifying that since the petitioner accepted the initial lower post in 2009 without objection, any further career growth must occur through regular department promotions or open public competitive examinations.
E. Delhi High Court
Messages Show Active Participation: Delhi High Court On Delhi Riots Accused Athar Khan
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The High Court reserved its verdict on 26th May, 2026, regarding a bail application filed by Athar Khan in connection with the 2020 northeast Delhi riots conspiracy case. A division bench of Justice Prathiba M Singh and Justice Madhu Jain heard extensive arguments before closing the matter for orders. Challenging a lower Court order from 29th January, 2026, that denied him bail under anti terror legislation, the petitioner argued that electronic communications showed plans only for non violent protests. Conversely, the bench observed orally that the submitted chat logs prima facie indicated active participation in a coordinated conspiracy, while the prosecution opposed relief by equating his involvement to principal organisers.
Muslim Students Can Sit For Law Faculty Exam On Day Other Than Bakrid, DU Tells Delhi High Court
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Delhi High Court recorded an assurance from Delhi University that it will reschedule an LL.B term exam for Muslim students to prevent a clash with the festival of Bakrid. The bench disposed of a Public Interest Litigation seeking a general postponement of the 16th June examination. The university counsel clarified that the administration had already issued a notification on 21st May allowing affected students to submit representations and opt for a supplementary exam date without incurring penalties or losing an attempt. The Court accepted this arrangement as sufficient to protect the students' rights.
Delhi High Court Lifts Stay on Eviction Proceedings Against Delhi Race Club
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Delhi High Court allowed the Central Government to resume eviction proceedings against the Delhi Race Club by setting aside an earlier interim stay. A division bench of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia ruled that a single judge could not halt a statutory show cause notice without recording formal findings on irreparable loss or balance of convenience. The dispute involves 84 acres of prime public land on Lok Kalyan Marg, which the Centre claims has been occupied without authorisation since the original lease expired in December 1994. The ruling allows the designated Estate Officer to independently hear and decide the eviction case.
Delhi High Court Dismisses PIL Challenging Rajya Sabha Nomination Of C. Sadanandan Master
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Delhi High Court dismissed a public interest litigation which challenged the President's decision to nominate BJP leader C.Sadanandan Master to the Rajya Sabha. It was held that the Article 80(3) of the Constitution confers broad discretion on the President to nominate individuals with special knowledge or practical experience in literature, science, art, and social service. Rejecting the petitioner's claim that active political background disqualified the nominee, the Court ruled that the evaluative criteria under Article 80(3) are broad and not amenable to judicial review based on mere political affiliation, rendering the plea meritless.
New Projects Need Not Conform To Height Of Older DDA Flats In Vicinity: Delhi HC Clears Vasant Kunj Highrise
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Delhi High Court dismissed challenges against a multi storey housing project in Vasant Kunj, ruling that new constructions are not required to mirror the low rise height limitations of neighboring older complexes. A single judge bench of Justice Shail Jain rejected a petition by a resident welfare association and an adjoining school asserting that the thirty three meter tall structure would disrupt local urban planning. The Court noted that the Master Plan for Delhi 2021 contains no such height freeze, holding that conformity with surrounding infrastructure does not imply a perpetual restriction on modern, vertical property intensification.
Delhi Court Convicts Congress Leader Alka Lamba For Assault On Police During Women's Reservation Protest
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: A Delhi Court has convicted Congress leader Alka Lamba for assaulting and obstructing police during a July 2024 women's reservation protest at Jantar Mantar. Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate Ashwani Panwar ruled that prosecutors successfully proved criminal intent and violence under the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS). The Court rejected defense arguments that the protest was peaceful and lacked independent witnesses or injury reports. Arguments regarding her final sentencing are scheduled for 5th June, 2026.
Kudankulam Nuclear Plant's Safety Analysis Report Exempt From RTI Disclosure: Delhi High Court
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Delhi High Court set aside a Central Information Commission directive that ordered the public disclosure of the Safety Analysis Report for the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant in Tamil Nadu. Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav ruled that the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited holds the report in a fiduciary capacity in relation to the Russian Federation, making it completely exempt under Section 8(1)(e) of the Right to Information Act. The Court additionally observed that the document is protected under Section 8(1)(a) since publishing sensitive reactor designs would prejudicially affect the strategic, scientific, and economic interests of the state and impact relations with a foreign country.
F. Kerala High Court
Kerala High Court Refuses To Grant Anticipatory Bail To Expelled Congress Councillor Accused Of Rape
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The High Court issued an order rejecting a pre-arrest bail plea filed by Prashob MA, a former municipal politician from Palakkad. Justice A Badharudeen dismissed the criminal appeal, which challenged a prior decision from a special trial Court that also denied relief after finding a prima facie case against the accused. The individual faces serious criminal charges registered at the Palakkad Town South Police Station under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including sexual exploitation on false promises of employment and criminal intimidation, alongside stringent provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Prevention of Atrocities Act, 1989.
Kerala High Court Overturns Sabarimala Pilgrim Murder Conviction, Finding Memory Fades With Time
Source: Indian Express
Verdict: The Kerala High Court set aside the conviction and life imprisonment of a man accused of the 1991 murder and robbery of a Sabarimala pilgrim, delivering its judgment. The division bench ruled that relying on witness identification in Court after a lapse of nearly three decades is wholly unsafe without prior test identification parades or corroborative evidence. The Court observed that human memory is fallible and fades over time, noting the accused changed significantly in appearance between 1991 and his eventual arrest in 2019. The bench concluded that the prosecution failed to establish an unbroken chain of circumstantial evidence linking the man to the crime.
Kerala High Court Upholds Validity Of Industrial Relations Code Amendment
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Kerala High Court upheld the constitutional validity of Section 104(1A) of the Industrial Relations Code Amendment Act. The division bench dismissed a writ appeal challenging a single judge verdict, ruling that enabling existing labour adjudicatory forums to function until new tribunals are established is a lawful transitional mechanism. The Court observed that the statutory provision is far from being manifestly arbitrary and serves as a temporary arrangement to prevent any disruption or prejudice to litigants during the systemic overhaul. The bench emphasised that the provision bridges the interim period and complements the broader legislative framework.
Kerala High Court Affirms Compensation for Police Misconduct
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Kerala High Court upheld a ₹ 5 lakh compensation award to Congress leader Shajir Arafath and his family for police misconduct involving the wrongful seizure of a vehicle and the alleged assault of his brother in 2010. Dismissing the appeal filed by three police officers, the Court noted that they failed to justify their actions and that a departmental inquiry had found them guilty of misconduct. It further held that the officers’ actions amounted to misuse of authority and affirmed the compensation awarded by the appellate court.
Kerala High Court Refuses CBI Probe Against ED Officer In Alleged Bribery Case, Calls Plea 'Premature'
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The High Court rejected a writ petition submitted by businessman Aneesh Babu that sought to transfer a bribery investigation involving Enforcement Directorate assistant director Shekhar Kumar to the Central Bureau of Investigation. The Court ruled the transfer request as premature, observing that the State Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau is already actively conducting its probe. The bench noted that the state agency had submitted relevant bank transaction records in a sealed cover following previous directives and instructed the vigilance department to effectively complete its ongoing investigation within 90 days, while granting the petitioner liberty to approach the Court again if dissatisfied with the final outcome.
Temple Land Acquisition Dispute Over NH Widening To Be Decided Under National Highways Act, Not LARR Act
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Kerala High Court ruled that land acquisition disputes arising from national highway widening must be resolved under the National Highways Act 1956 rather than the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act 2013. The Court set aside a District Court order concerning a two crore four lakh rupee compensation dispute over the Thiruvangat Para Temple land acquired from a hereditary trustee. The Court clarified that while a 2015 central notification applied the 2013 Act parameters for determining compensation amounts, it did not displace the distinct procedural mechanisms and original Civil Court reference jurisdiction established under Section 3H(4) of the National Highways Act.
H. Odisha High Court
Odisha Student Who Cracked NEET Loses MBBS Seat As Court Says Can’t Claim ‘Two Privileges At Same Time
Source: The Indian Express
Verdict: The Orissa High Court rejected a medical aspirant's plea ruling that a candidate cannot simultaneously claim two distinct academic privileges for admission. The bench examined a case where an applicant utilised improved chemistry marks from the National Institute of Open Schooling to satisfy the core eligibility criteria for the NEET. The Court determined that while these secondary scores could fulfill basic qualifying thresholds, the candidate was ineligible to concurrently claim a seat under the localised State Government School reservation quota, as the specific institutional framework permits only those completing continuous schooling within state-run premises.
I. Karnataka High Court
Karnataka HC Grants Anticipatory Bail To Mother Of Man Booked For Rape, Religious Conversion Of His Wife
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Karnataka High Court granted anticipatory bail to the mother of a man accused of raping and forcibly converting his wife, a case previously noted for its layered domestic nature. The complainant asserted that the primary accused used objectionable recordings to execute a forced conversion from Hinduism to Islam before deserting her. Refusing the state's demand for custodial interrogation of the mother, Justice R Nataraj confirmed pre-arrest relief. The Court observed that since the marriage was properly registered under the Special Marriage Act, the remote likelihood of the mother's direct physical complicity in the alleged assault made custodial detention unnecessary.
J. Calcutta High Court
Calcutta High Court Withdraws Interim Protection From Arrest Granted To TMC Leader Jahangir Khan
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Calcutta High Court vacated an interim order that had protected a TMC leader from police arrest in connection with multiple pending criminal cases. The Court dismissed the politician's plea for extended immunity, observing that individuals facing serious criminal allegations cannot indefinitely utilise judicial umbrellas to evade active law enforcement investigations. The bench noted that the material placed on record by the state investigation agencies justified custodial interrogation to ensure a thorough probe. Consequently, the Court cleared the path for the state police to take necessary coercive action, emphasising that political status does not grant special legal privileges.
K. Punjab and Haryana High Court
Punjab & Haryana HC Dismisses Anticipatory Bail In Social Media Misinformation Case
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Punjab and Haryana High Court dismissed an anticipatory bail application filed by academician Madhu Purnima Kishwar in a case concerning the circulation of an altered video targeting a constitutional authority. Facing accusations under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Information Technology Act for sharing an obscene clip with misleading captions resembling the Prime Minister Shri Narender Modi Ji, the petitioner sought pre-arrest bail claiming no malicious intent. Justice Aman Chaudhary rejected the plea, observing that the probe is at a nascent stage requiring custodial questioning. The Court highlighted her repeated non-cooperation with police notices and noted that her large social media following magnified the public ramifications of the post.
Punjab And Haryana High Court Stays Notification Extending Assam Tenancy Act To Chandigarh
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Punjab and Haryana High Court stayed a central notification extending the Assam Tenancy Act, 2021, to the Union Territory of Chandigarh. The notification, which repealed the East Punjab Urban Restriction Act, 1949, was challenged by the High Court Bar Association for shifting rent dispute adjudication from judicial officers to executive authorities. The bench observed that the complete absence of rules and enforcement infrastructure left citizens without any legal forum for rent grievances for three weeks. The Court ordered the 1949 Act to remain operational until the next hearing.
L. Gauhati High Court
Court Refuses To Recognise Assam Woman As Indian After She Lists Impossible February Date As Her Birthday
Source: The Indian Express
Verdict: The Gauhati High Court upheld a Foreigners Tribunal decision declaring an Assam woman a foreigner, ruling that oral testimony alone cannot prove citizenship linkage without solid documentary proof. The Court noted significant flaws in her claims, specifically pointing out that she had recorded her birth date as an impossible calendar date, "30.02.1990". The bench emphasised that merely producing certified copies of voters' lists containing historical family names is insufficient if the petitioner fails to legally prove an unbroken lineage to those projected ancestors.
M. Other Courts and Tribunals
Singapore Court Jails Byju Raveendran For Six Months In Contempt Case
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: A Singapore Court sentenced educational technology entrepreneur Byju Raveendran to six months in prison for contempt of Court. The judiciary found Raveendran in violation of multiple asset disclosure directives dating back to April 2024. The Court ordered him to surrender to authorities, pay legal costs of 90,000 Singapore dollars, and provide ownership documentation for an entity linked to corporate shareholdings. The legal action, initiated by a subsidiary of the Qatar Investment Authority, represents a severe procedural escalation amid ongoing multi-jurisdictional creditor disputes. Raveendran denied any wrongdoing, stating that the order is a procedural matter concerning document disclosure rather than a substantive finding of fraud.
The developments of the past week reflect the judiciary’s continuing engagement with issues at the intersection of law, governance, public policy, and constitutional rights. From education and electoral administration to environmental protection and criminal justice, courts addressed a diverse range of matters with broader institutional implications.
As several of these cases progress through further hearings and adjudication, they will continue to influence legal discourse, administrative decision-making, and the evolution of Indian jurisprudence. India Judiciary Watch will continue to track and analyse these developments in the weeks ahead.
IV. Appointments, Collegium Recommendations, And Transfers Section
Also, please consider subscribing to NFPRC Foundation’s focused centres covering latest economic, policy and administrative developments -
Centre for Law, Policy and Governance - Link
Centre for Accelerating India’s Growth - Link
Centre for Studies in Indian Social Systems - Link
NFPRC Foundation - Link