News for 'Bench of Justice'

'Abominable practice': HC orders SBI to refund widow's Rs 19.90 lakh FD

'Abominable practice': HC orders SBI to refund widow's Rs 19.90 lakh FD

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

The Allahabad High Court has ordered the State Bank of India (SBI) to refund Rs 19.90 lakh debited from a widow's fixed deposit to recover her deceased husband's personal loan. The court deemed the bank's action an "abominable" breach of banking practice and also directed SBI to pay Rs 1 lakh in compensation to the woman.

Dog walking row: SC stays reinstatement of IAS officer

Dog walking row: SC stays reinstatement of IAS officer

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has stayed the reinstatement of IAS officer Rinku Dhugga, who was compulsorily retired by the Centre following a controversy involving the Thyagaraj Stadium. The Centre challenged the Delhi High Court's decision to set aside her compulsory retirement, which was initially ordered after allegations of misusing the stadium for dog walking and unauthorised absence.

Kerala High Court Confirms Life Sentence In Minor Rape Case

Kerala High Court Confirms Life Sentence In Minor Rape Case

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

The Kerala High Court has affirmed the conviction and life imprisonment of a former state government employee found guilty of raping a 14-year-old schoolgirl over 45 days in 2009. The court dismissed the accused's appeal, stating the victim's testimony was "sterling quality" and corroborated by medical evidence, rejecting claims of false implication.

SC asks CBSE to exempt Class 6 from three-language policy this year

SC asks CBSE to exempt Class 6 from three-language policy this year

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has urged the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) to consider exempting Class 6 students from its three-language policy for the current academic year. The policy, which mandates the study of three languages including two native Indian languages, is challenged by petitioners who question CBSE's jurisdiction over classes 6-8. The court emphasized finding a solution that avoids student pressure and suggested a potential deferral for Class 6.

NCLT issues notices in Subhash Chandra insolvency, bars property disposal

NCLT issues notices in Subhash Chandra insolvency, bars property disposal

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

A special five-member NCLT bench has issued notices to all parties in Subhash Chandra's personal insolvency case and directed the Essel Group Chairman not to alienate his properties, either directly or indirectly, following a split verdict on a repayment plan.

SC questions cremation of missing Delhi realtor's body before identification

SC questions cremation of missing Delhi realtor's body before identification

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has ordered the Delhi and Gurugram police to explain why the body of missing Delhi realtor Yuvraj Singh Manchanda was cremated without identification and why details were not uploaded to the CCTNS portal. This directive comes after Manchanda's family alleged they were not informed about the recovery of his body, which was found in Gurugram and cremated before they were notified. The court also referenced its earlier directives on prompt FIR registration for missing persons, highlighting concerns about human trafficking and the need for an all-India police grid.

'Rs 370 biryani' remark: Comedian Pranit More moves SC to club FIRs

'Rs 370 biryani' remark: Comedian Pranit More moves SC to club FIRs

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

Comedian Pranit More has approached the Supreme Court to club multiple FIRs filed against him after a guest on his show made a controversial "Rs 370 biryani" remark, deemed misogynistic. More's counsel informed the court that he has apologised on all forums, including the National Commission for Women, and the apex court has sought notices from the Centre and state governments.

Article 370 to 'vote chori': When Gyanesh Kumar made headlines

Article 370 to 'vote chori': When Gyanesh Kumar made headlines

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar is facing significant scrutiny after an investigation revealed objections from his fellow election commissioners, Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, regarding decisions made during the Special Intensive Revision of voter lists. The objections, reportedly made at least 14 times, concerned issues like changes to voter registration forms and centralised control over electoral roll databases, intensifying criticism of Kumar's tenure and the EC's impartiality.

BCI has no statutory power to regulate conduct of students: SC on NALSAR row

BCI has no statutory power to regulate conduct of students: SC on NALSAR row

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has ruled that the Bar Council of India (BCI) lacks the statutory authority to regulate the conduct of law students. The court clarified that disciplinary actions against students fall under the purview of their respective educational institutions, setting aside BCI notifications issued during a controversy involving NALSAR University students.

'Final chance': SC gives Rajpal Yadav 2 weeks to return Rs 2 cr

'Final chance': SC gives Rajpal Yadav 2 weeks to return Rs 2 cr

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has given actor Rajpal Yadav a final two-week opportunity to present a concrete proposal for repaying an outstanding amount to a private firm, directing him to deposit Rs 2 crore with the apex court registry. This comes after a series of cheque bounce cases, with the Delhi High Court previously upholding his conviction and sentencing him to three months' imprisonment. The court noted Yadav's past conduct did not inspire confidence but granted a last chance.

HC dismisses ex-cricketer Yusuf Pathan's plea over Vadodara land claim

HC dismisses ex-cricketer Yusuf Pathan's plea over Vadodara land claim

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

The Gujarat high court on Monday dismissed as withdrawn a plea of former India cricketer and Lok Sabha MP Yusuf Pathan's appeal against a single judge order passed in August last year, calling him an "encroacher" on a piece of government land in Vadodara.

HC dismisses ex-cricketer Yusuf Pathan's plea over Vadodara land claim

HC dismisses ex-cricketer Yusuf Pathan's plea over Vadodara land claim

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

The Gujarat high court on Monday dismissed as withdrawn a plea of former India cricketer and Lok Sabha MP Yusuf Pathan's appeal against a single judge order passed in August last year, calling him an "encroacher" on a piece of government land in Vadodara.

Supreme Court grants divorce to couple after 21 years of separation

Supreme Court grants divorce to couple after 21 years of separation

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has granted a divorce to a couple separated since December 2005, noting the wife had abandoned the matrimonial relationship. The court directed the husband to pay Rs 7 lakh as permanent alimony. The ruling emphasised that prolonged separation and the reality of an irreconcilable marriage are key factors, overturning a Madhya Pradesh High Court decision.

'I Want My Voting Right Reinstated'

'I Want My Voting Right Reinstated'

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

'I was just thinking about me, because my rights have been affected. That's it.' 'I am an ordinary citizen of this country, and I am expecting my rights (as a voter) to be restored.'

SC rejects Aravalli panel extension, sticks to Nov 30 deadline

SC rejects Aravalli panel extension, sticks to Nov 30 deadline

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has rejected a High-Powered Committee's request for a six-month extension to submit its report on the definition and protection of the Aravalli Hills, directing the panel to submit it by November 30. The court warned of reconstituting the committee if it fails to meet the deadline and emphasised the need for issue-specific interim reports. This decision follows a previous controversy over the Aravalli definition and mining regulations.

Judicial officer cannot shout at judges in court: SC

Judicial officer cannot shout at judges in court: SC

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has refused to stay contempt proceedings initiated by the Bombay High Court against a judicial officer for an "unwarranted outburst" in court. The apex court observed that a judicial officer cannot shout at judges and deemed the officer's conduct as "gross indiscipline," advising him to tender an unconditional apology to the High Court. The High Court had initiated proceedings after the officer allegedly blamed the court administration in a high-pitched tone during a hearing on fast-track court posts.

'Cannot be adjudicated in public': CJI on SC judge's charges against Raj HC judge

'Cannot be adjudicated in public': CJI on SC judge's charges against Raj HC judge

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant has stated that allegations of "maladministration" and "favouritism" made by Supreme Court judge Justice Sandeep Mehta against Acting Chief Justice of Rajasthan High Court Sanjeev Prakash Sharma cannot be adjudicated in the public domain, emphasising that Justice Sharma must be given a fair opportunity to respond.

ICG likely to grant permanent commission to women after SC intervention

ICG likely to grant permanent commission to women after SC intervention

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has directed the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) to consider granting permanent commission to Short Service Appointee (SSA) officer Priyanka Tyagi and other similarly placed women, pending vigilance clearance. This follows earlier strong remarks from the court against the ICG's "vague" and "arbitrary" policy regarding women officers, emphasising gender equality in the armed forces.

HC rejects Hindutva influencer Bhardwaj's plea against arrest; sends to jail

HC rejects Hindutva influencer Bhardwaj's plea against arrest; sends to jail

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Hindutva influencer Swatantra Bhardwaj has been sent to 14-day judicial custody in connection with the alleged assault on a student activist's father during a protest at Jantar Mantar. Bhardwaj was detained after claiming he "cracked the skull" of the victim and escaped arrest due to political connections. Additional charges under the SC/ST Act, criminal intimidation, POCSO Act, and IT Act have also been added.

'Nobody can...': SC seeks report on minor girl's harassment charges at CJP protest

'Nobody can...': SC seeks report on minor girl's harassment charges at CJP protest

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has taken a serious view of allegations of harassment against a minor girl who participated in the July Cockroach Janta Party protests. The court emphasised that nobody should be allowed to intimidate a victim or her family from pursuing criminal proceedings and directed the Solicitor General to ensure action on the girl's FIR, seeking reports from Delhi and Uttar Pradesh governments.

FDA withdraws action on Pune Cipla unit, MCA eateries after HC rebuke

FDA withdraws action on Pune Cipla unit, MCA eateries after HC rebuke

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

The Bombay High Court severely criticised the Maharashtra FDA for its "undue haste" and "high-handed" actions, forcing the regulator to withdraw orders against Cipla Pharma and five restaurants at the Mumbai Cricket Association premises. The court admonished the FDA for violating principles of natural justice and taking a "pedantic instead of pragmatic view," even threatening contempt action against officials.

SC modifies order giving relief to Noida DM in NSA case

SC modifies order giving relief to Noida DM in NSA case

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has modified its interim order, staying the strictures and compensation directive passed by the Allahabad High Court against Noida DM Medha Roopam. The High Court had ordered Roopam to pay Rs 5 lakh from her salary for the detention of student Akriti Chaudhary under the NSA, criticising the DM's conduct. The Supreme Court's interim order specifically stays paragraphs 27 to 33 of the High Court judgment, which contained the strictures and cost award, but does not stay the quashing of Chaudhary's detention.

Ujjain Shahi Masjid row ends as Muslim side agrees to road-widening plan

Ujjain Shahi Masjid row ends as Muslim side agrees to road-widening plan

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has disposed of writ appeals concerning the partial demolition of Ujjain's Shahi Masjid for road widening ahead of Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2028, following an agreement between the Muslim side and the Ujjain Municipal Corporation. The agreement involves removing a smaller portion of the mosque than initially planned, relocating its minaret, and providing alternative shops. This resolution comes after earlier protests and arrests.

Delhi Bus Gangrape: Police File Chargesheet, SC Expresses Concern

Delhi Bus Gangrape: Police File Chargesheet, SC Expresses Concern

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Delhi Police have filed a 398-page chargesheet against a sleeper bus driver and conductor for the alleged gangrape of a minor during a journey from Greater Noida to Delhi. Biological evidence was crucial in the case, which also highlighted significant safety lapses on the bus. The Supreme Court has taken suo motu cognisance, drawing parallels to the 2012 Nirbhaya case and questioning systemic law enforcement failures.

Why Are Thousands of GST Appeals Pending?

Why Are Thousands of GST Appeals Pending?

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

GSTAT has crossed 75,000 filings but disposed of only 83 cases, highlighting the huge backlog facing India's new GST appeals tribunal.

HC bans bursting crackers on roads during festivals, pulls up Maha govt

HC bans bursting crackers on roads during festivals, pulls up Maha govt

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

The Bombay High Court has imposed a complete ban on firecrackers, loudspeakers, DJs, and laser beams on public roads during festival processions, criticising the Maharashtra government for its laxity in implementing noise pollution rules. The court highlighted the severe noise and air pollution caused by such celebrations and called for more dignified ways of observing festivals, noting that current permissions are often ineffective due to official inaction.

Supreme Court: 1978 'Industry' Definition Not for 2020 Labour Code

Supreme Court: 1978 'Industry' Definition Not for 2020 Labour Code

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court, in a 6:3 majority verdict, has ruled that the expansive, labour-friendly definition of 'industry' from its 1978 Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board judgement will not be used for interpreting the Industrial Relations Code of 2020. However, the 'triple test' from the 1978 verdict will still apply to pending cases under the now-repealed 1947 Industrial Disputes Act.

SC dismisses NEET-PG re-exam PIL, slaps Rs 25K fine on advocate

SC dismisses NEET-PG re-exam PIL, slaps Rs 25K fine on advocate

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking a re-conduct of the NEET-PG 2026 exam, imposing a cost on the petitioner and criticising the advocate for misusing the legal process and soliciting cases on social media. The court noted that the petitioners were not affected by the exam disruption they cited.

Sena row: Can legislative majority decide disqualification cases? SC asks

Sena row: Can legislative majority decide disqualification cases? SC asks

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has questioned the reliability of legislative majority as the sole determinant for political party ownership, especially when disqualification proceedings are pending against the very legislators forming that majority. This query arose during arguments concerning the Shiv Sena faction dispute between Eknath Shinde and Uddhav Thackeray.

Judges are not gods, won't get every judgment right: Outgoing SC judge

Judges are not gods, won't get every judgment right: Outgoing SC judge

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

Retiring Supreme Court Justice Sanjay Karol stated in his farewell address that judges are not gods and will not get every judgement right, emphasising the need for humility and the ability to see the real person behind every litigant.

Mahua Moitra faces egg attack, 'go back' slogans in Bengal's Nadia

Mahua Moitra faces egg attack, 'go back' slogans in Bengal's Nadia

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

TMC MP Mahua Moitra was allegedly pelted with eggs by BJP workers during a visit to Nadia district's Tehatta area, despite police presence. Moitra invoked a recent Supreme Court observation regarding her apprehension of such attacks, questioning police inaction and alleging contempt of court. The BJP has condemned the act but denied involvement.

Where Has Assamese Woman Deported To Bangladesh Vanished?

Where Has Assamese Woman Deported To Bangladesh Vanished?

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

More than three months after her midnight deportation, however, the central question remains unanswered: Where is Mumtaz Begum?

Supreme Court declines to interfere with Delhi HC order in NSE co-location case

Supreme Court declines to interfere with Delhi HC order in NSE co-location case

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has refused to quash proceedings under the Prevention of Corruption Act against former NSE MD and CEO Chitra Ramkrishna, stating that the trial court will determine whether she can be considered a 'public servant' under the Act.

'Sloganeering for secession...': HC sets aside discharge of UAPA accused

'Sloganeering for secession...': HC sets aside discharge of UAPA accused

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

The high court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh has set aside the discharge of an accused in a UAPA case stating that secessionist sloganeering in a mob in the presence of the head of a banned separatist organisation prima facie falls under the definition of unlawful activity.

Christian women can file for divorce from current address: Kerala HC

Christian women can file for divorce from current address: Kerala HC

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

The Kerala high court has delivered a landmark judgment, empowering Christian women in India to file for divorce from their current place of residence, thereby removing a significant procedural hurdle and ensuring equal access to justice.

SC to hear plea on denying perks to resigning officials, judges

SC to hear plea on denying perks to resigning officials, judges

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a plea seeking to deny retirement perks and benefits to constitutional functionaries, including judges, who resign to avoid removal proceedings. The petition argues that such a practice undermines the Rule of Law and constitutional principles.

SC quashes FIRs against protesters, CJP calls off stir

SC quashes FIRs against protesters, CJP calls off stir

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has quashed all FIRs against students who participated in the Cockroach Janta Party-led protests, stating the cases should not affect their future, while the government affirmed its commitment to youth welfare.

SC seeks Centre's reply on plea seeking social media curbs for minors

SC seeks Centre's reply on plea seeking social media curbs for minors

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has sought responses from the Union ministries of electronics and information technology and law and justice regarding a plea for safeguards for minors on social media. The NGO 'Just Rights for Children Alliance' filed the plea, arguing that social media platforms should not enter into contracts with children under 18, citing their statutory incapacity to contract and the risks of online harm.

Abhijit Dipke tenders his 'resignation' as 'Madhya Pradesh CM'

Abhijit Dipke tenders his 'resignation' as 'Madhya Pradesh CM'

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party, used a satirical "resignation" letter to criticise the Mohan Yadav government in Madhya Pradesh over the deaths of over 30 tribal children in Balaghat district. His letter, addressed to the Governor, highlighted failures in compensation, basic amenities like water and education, and tribal welfare, questioning the government's accountability. The issue has also drawn the attention of the Madhya Pradesh High Court, which sought responses from state departments regarding the alleged deaths due to infectious diseases and inadequate facilities.

Delhi building collapse: PIL in HC seeks Rs 1cr compensation

Delhi building collapse: PIL in HC seeks Rs 1cr compensation

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

The Delhi High Court has allowed urgent listing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning the recent building collapse in Satya Niketan, Delhi, which resulted in seven deaths. The PIL seeks compensation for victims, a safety audit of PGs and hostels, and an independent inquiry, while police have issued a lookout notice for the building owner.