News for 'Bench of Justice'

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.

'Everywhere there is filth in Mumbai, is this international city?' HC

'Everywhere there is filth in Mumbai, is this international city?' HC

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

The Bombay High Court has strongly criticised the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) for the pervasive garbage on Mumbai's roads, warning of action against ward officers if the situation does not improve. Hearing petitions on pollution near the Kanjurmarg dumping ground, the court observed that the "entire municipal machinery is inactive" and suggested imposing heavy fines on litterers. The court has demanded BMC's Standard Operating Procedure and a list of officers responsible for cleanliness, threatening to remove those who fail to act.

Take a decision: SC raps Odisha over Dara Singh's remission plea

Take a decision: SC raps Odisha over Dara Singh's remission plea

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has expressed strong displeasure with the Odisha government for delaying a decision on the remission plea of Ravindra Pal alias Dara Singh, who is serving a life sentence for the 1999 murder of Australian missionary Graham Stuart Staines and his two sons. The court has directed the state to make a decision by September 17, warning of summoning officials if the delay persists. Singh, incarcerated for over 26 years, seeks premature release based on his time served and a 2022 state policy.

Ujjain tense as mosque demolition row sparks protest; 15 detained, 7 booked

Ujjain tense as mosque demolition row sparks protest; 15 detained, 7 booked

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Police in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, used tear gas to disperse protesters demonstrating against the proposed demolition of a portion of the Shahi Masjid for a road-widening project. The project is aimed at easing pilgrim movement for Simhastha Kumbh 2028, and despite initial protests, local authorities and the city Qazi claim the issue was resolved through mutual consent, with the Chief Minister also setting an example by demolishing part of his ancestral home.

Supreme Court grants bail to NSCN-M militant after 17 years in jail

Supreme Court grants bail to NSCN-M militant after 17 years in jail

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has suspended the sentence of Hopeson Nignshen, a self-styled NSCN(M) "lieutenant", who was convicted for the abduction and killing of three Manipur government officials in 2009. Nignshen has been incarcerated for over 17 years, and his appeal is still pending. The suspension comes with the condition that he remains within Delhi until his appeal is disposed of.

No proof, no case: HC drops plea against Rahul's Indian citizenship

No proof, no case: HC drops plea against Rahul's Indian citizenship

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

The Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court has dismissed a writ petition challenging Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's Indian citizenship. The petitioners failed to provide concrete evidence to support their claim that Gandhi is a British citizen, leading to the withdrawal of the plea.

Supreme Court ensures coach Bilquis Mir joins Asian Games team

Supreme Court ensures coach Bilquis Mir joins Asian Games team

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has intervened to allow international water sports coach Bilquis Mir to join the Indian National Kayaking and Canoeing Team for the Asian Games in Japan. Overruling a Jammu and Kashmir administration order that denied her permission due to pending inquiries, the apex court emphasised the time-sensitive nature of sports administration and directed the issuance of a No Objection Certificate by September 15, 2026.

Sachin Waze gets bail in Antilia bomb scare case

Sachin Waze gets bail in Antilia bomb scare case

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

A special court granted bail to dismissed police officer Sachin Waze in the 2021 Antilia bomb scare case, severely criticising the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for its failure to establish a prima facie case of terrorism and for not recording statements of the alleged targets, Mukesh Ambani's family. The NIA has challenged the bail order in the Bombay High Court.

Junk food to paper leaks: HC takes up Gen Z, Alpha, Beta challenges

Junk food to paper leaks: HC takes up Gen Z, Alpha, Beta challenges

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

The Rajasthan high court, Jodhpur, has taken suo motu cognisance of issues concerning Gen Z, Gen Alpha and Gen Beta, expressing concern over junk food, excessive screen time, paper leaks, inadequate infrastructure in rural schools and the possible erosion of basic learning skills in the age of artificial intelligence.

Vizag airport closure: Delhi HC sends plea to Andhra HC

Vizag airport closure: Delhi HC sends plea to Andhra HC

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

The Delhi High Court has dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the closure of Visakhapatnam Airport for commercial flights, directing the petitioner to approach the Andhra Pradesh High Court instead. The court cited "forum non conveniens," stating that the primary impact and cause of action lie in Visakhapatnam, where a similar PIL is already pending. The petitioner argued that the decision to close the existing airport for 30 years, transferring operations to a new airport 60 km away, was arbitrary and wasted public funds.

'You need to suffer': HC denies relief to Thane eatery against FDA action

'You need to suffer': HC denies relief to Thane eatery against FDA action

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

The Bombay high court has taken a firm stance against a Thane restaurant, denying relief and criticising it for serving banned analogue paneer, underscoring the critical importance of food safety and consumer rights in Maharashtra.

No SC ban on CJP's Sep 5 march: 'Expect everyone to act responsibly'

No SC ban on CJP's Sep 5 march: 'Expect everyone to act responsibly'

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has declined to issue orders prohibiting a protest march called by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) for September 5. The court stated its expectation that all parties would act peacefully and lawfully, directing the petitioner to a High Powered Enquiry Committee. The CJP's march aims to protest the Centre's alleged failure to honour promises made regarding examination irregularities and police violence during previous agitations.

SC seeks Centre's view on using totalisers to count EVM votes

SC seeks Centre's view on using totalisers to count EVM votes

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has sought a response from the Centre regarding the introduction of totalisers for counting votes recorded in Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). The court wants to understand any impediments and potential negative impacts of this mechanism, which aims to protect voter privacy and prevent post-poll violence by counting votes from multiple booths together.

No HC relief for Rahul Gandhi in Modi defamation case summons

No HC relief for Rahul Gandhi in Modi defamation case summons

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

The Bombay High Court has dismissed Congress MP Rahul Gandhi's petition challenging a 2019 summons issued by a magistrate court in a defamation complaint. The complaint, filed by a BJP member, pertains to Gandhi's alleged defamatory comments against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The High Court found no illegality in the magistrate's order but extended the deferment of the lower court hearing by six weeks to allow Gandhi to appeal to the Supreme Court.

Gauhati HC Asks Assam Government To Pay Compensation

Gauhati HC Asks Assam Government To Pay Compensation

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Court said state machinery prevented woman from challenging Foreigners Tribunal order; directs authorities to try to locate her in Bangladesh and bring her back to India.

SC to hear govt plea on quashing FIRs against NEET protesters

SC to hear govt plea on quashing FIRs against NEET protesters

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court will hear a plea from the Centre to quash FIRs against students involved in NEET examination paper leak protests. This development comes amidst planned fresh protests by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and follows previous court directives regarding the nature of charges against student protesters.

HC refuses to stop Jarange's Maratha quota march to Mumbai

HC refuses to stop Jarange's Maratha quota march to Mumbai

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Bombay High Court has declined to issue a prohibitory order against Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange's proposed protest march to Mumbai, stating that the Maharashtra government is fully capable of managing any potential law and order situation. The court emphasised the right to protest in a democratic country and directed the government to ensure Jarange receives medical assistance if needed.

SC resumes final hearing on Sena row, Shinde camp defends EC verdict

SC resumes final hearing on Sena row, Shinde camp defends EC verdict

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court resumed hearing pleas challenging the Maharashtra Speaker's decision regarding the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena MLAs and the Election Commission's recognition of the Shinde faction as the "real" Shiv Sena. Senior advocate Neeraj Kishan Kaul, representing the Shinde camp, argued that the EC has jurisdiction under Article 324 to examine a party's democratic character and organisational structure, especially when the Thackeray faction's constitution was not registered with the poll panel. He emphasised that the Shinde faction's case is based on a split within the political party, not just its legislative wing, citing cadre discontent. The hearing remains inconclusive.

24,000 Manipur violence-hit families yet to get aid? SC seeks verification

24,000 Manipur violence-hit families yet to get aid? SC seeks verification

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court on Monday asked an apex court-appointed committee to verify claims that around 24,000 families affected by the 2023 Manipur ethnic violence are yet to receive benefits under government rehabilitation and welfare schemes.

Bombay HC asks MCA if cricketers knew they were consuming 'non-vegetarian tea'

Bombay HC asks MCA if cricketers knew they were consuming 'non-vegetarian tea'

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

The Bombay High Court humorously questioned the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) if cricketers were aware they were consuming 'non-vegetarian tea' due to unhygienic conditions, while ordering the MCA to clean its eateries for a fresh FDA inspection.

Remarks on Col Sofiya: Sanction awaited to prosecute MP minister, SC told

Remarks on Col Sofiya: Sanction awaited to prosecute MP minister, SC told

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court was informed that sanction is awaited to prosecute Madhya Pradesh minister Kunwar Vijay Shah for his remarks against Army officer Col Sofiya Qureshi. The SIT probe is complete, and a chargesheet will be filed once sanction is obtained. Shah had previously apologised for his controversial comments.

'Show some sportsmanship': SC gives ICG 2 weeks on female officer's case

'Show some sportsmanship': SC gives ICG 2 weeks on female officer's case

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court on Wednesday came down heavily on the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) for not granting permanent commission to a female officer, saying "we will not allow women officers to be humiliated".

Flies, cockroaches found in MCA kitchens; Bombay HC orders fresh inspection

Flies, cockroaches found in MCA kitchens; Bombay HC orders fresh inspection

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

The Bombay High Court has directed the FDA to conduct a fresh inspection of the Mumbai Cricket Association's kitchens after serious food safety and hygiene violations were found, including insects. The court also humorously questioned if cricketers were aware they were consuming "non-vegetarian tea" due to the unhygienic conditions. The MCA has been asked to clean its premises before the inspection.

SC extends stay on Abhishek Banerjee's aide's arrest in land-grabbing case

SC extends stay on Abhishek Banerjee's aide's arrest in land-grabbing case

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has extended its order staying the arrest of Sumit Roy, personal assistant to Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee, in connection with the Salboni land-grabbing case. The West Bengal government alleged Roy was not cooperating with the probe, while Roy's counsel argued he has a right to silence and the case is politically motivated. The court will review a sealed cover report from the police before further proceedings.

'Between me and students': CJI slams Bar Council order against NALSAR graduates

'Between me and students': CJI slams Bar Council order against NALSAR graduates

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant sharply criticised the Bar Council of India (BCI) for its 'uncalled for' interference in a protest by NALSAR University of Law students, asserting that students have a right to protest and that the matter was a 'dialogue between students and me'. The BCI had initially ordered that 2026 NALSAR graduates not be enrolled as advocates, an order it later reversed.

45 yrs of delay: SC calls Jharkhand double-murder case a 'judicial failure'

45 yrs of delay: SC calls Jharkhand double-murder case a 'judicial failure'

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has directed the release of a 70-year-old man by suspending his sentence as it termed the nearly half century long litigation in a double-murder case from Jharkhand a "failure of judicial system."

'Concerned about children': SC pushes warning labels on packaged foods

'Concerned about children': SC pushes warning labels on packaged foods

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has expressed serious concern over public health, especially children's, due to packaged foods high in salt, sugar, and fat, urging stakeholders to implement front-of-pack warning labels. The court criticised the FSSAI for delays and proposed a red-coloured hexagonal warning label for products high in two or more specified nutrients, to be implemented in phases.

SC forms panel to probe police action during student protests

SC forms panel to probe police action during student protests

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has established a five-member high-powered committee, led by former top court judge Justice R Subhash Reddy, to investigate allegations of police excesses against student protesters and violence against police personnel during recent demonstrations in Delhi.

'Every penny must reach temple treasury': SC on Banke Bihari donations

'Every penny must reach temple treasury': SC on Banke Bihari donations

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has issued a directive for the Shri Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, mandating that all donations must be deposited into official donation boxes or the online temple treasury. This comes amidst serious allegations of sevayats siphoning off funds and obstructing online donation methods, highlighting the need for a transparent mechanism in temple management.

HC grants interim protection from arrest to Abhishek Banerjee in 3 new FIRs

HC grants interim protection from arrest to Abhishek Banerjee in 3 new FIRs

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

The Calcutta High Court has granted interim protection from arrest to TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee in three FIRs, expressing frustration over the numerous cases against him. The court directed police not to take coercive action until November 30 and questioned the motive behind the complaints, noting they were filed by a political rival.

SC tells EC, states to expedite probes into poll black money

SC tells EC, states to expedite probes into poll black money

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has emphasised the need for timely investigations and conclusions of criminal cases involving illicit money in elections. Observing that black money compromises democracy and the rule of law, the court issued several directives, including reporting seizures to competent authorities within 24 hours, completing investigations within a year, and submitting quarterly status reports to the Election Commission. The ruling also mandates High Courts to designate special courts for expeditious disposal of cases against candidates and requires High Court approval for withdrawing cases.

Appellate court cannot hike sentence on its own, rules Supreme Court

Appellate court cannot hike sentence on its own, rules Supreme Court

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has ruled that an appellate court cannot unilaterally enhance a convict's sentence unless an appeal for enhancement is filed by the State, victim, or complainant. This significant observation came in a triple-murder case where the Madras High Court had enhanced a co-convict's life sentence to imprisonment for the remainder of his life without such an appeal.

Tarun Tejpal surrenders, begins 10-year jail term in 2013 rape case

Tarun Tejpal surrenders, begins 10-year jail term in 2013 rape case

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Former Tehelka editor-in-chief Tarun Tejpal has surrendered before a Goa court to begin serving his 10-year rigorous imprisonment sentence in a 2013 sexual assault case. This follows a Supreme Court directive and his conviction by the Bombay High Court, which overturned his earlier acquittal. Tejpal's appeal against his conviction is slated for a Supreme Court hearing in September 2026.

Disha Salian death: 'CBI FIR names Aaditya Thackeray, Rhea, Dino Morea among others'

Disha Salian death: 'CBI FIR names Aaditya Thackeray, Rhea, Dino Morea among others'

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

The CBI has registered an FIR in the Disha Salian death case, following a Bombay High Court order that criticised Mumbai Police for its six-year delay and "glaring discrepancies" in the investigation. Salian, former manager of Sushant Singh Rajput, died in June 2020, a week before Rajput's own death, which led to speculation about a connection. The High Court had expressed concerns over the Mumbai Police's handling of the case, which was initially treated as an accidental death.

AAP MLA Kuldeep Kumar released after Delhi HC intervenes

AAP MLA Kuldeep Kumar released after Delhi HC intervenes

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

AAP MLA Kuldeep Kumar, who was allegedly 'picked up' by plainclothes police officers, has been released, police informed the Delhi High Court. His family had filed a habeas corpus petition alleging illegal detention, claiming he was taken from his home while leading a protest for a murdered sanitation worker.

Bombay High Court's Witty Remark On MCA Eateries

Bombay High Court's Witty Remark On MCA Eateries

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

The Bombay High Court humorously questioned if cricketers were consuming "non-vegetarian tea" due to unhygienic conditions at Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) eateries. The court ordered the MCA to clean its premises before a fresh FDA inspection, following the suspension of licenses for five restaurants due to severe food safety violations like cockroach infestations and dirty kitchens.

SC to decide if typo in arrest memo enough to grant bail to Sonam Raghuvanshi

SC to decide if typo in arrest memo enough to grant bail to Sonam Raghuvanshi

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

The Supreme Court is considering whether a typographical error in an arrest memo is sufficient grounds to invalidate an arrest and grant bail in a murder case. The case involves Sonam Raghuvanshi, accused of her husband's murder, who was granted bail by the Meghalaya High Court due to a procedural error in her arrest document. The Solicitor General argued that the error was clerical and the gravity of the crime should outweigh such a technicality.

SC orders SIT to expedite Ram Temple donations embezzlement probe

SC orders SIT to expedite Ram Temple donations embezzlement probe

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has directed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to expeditiously complete its probe into the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The court also mandated the SIT to submit a sealed status report and consider suggestions from litigants for improving transparency and investigation quality.

SC overturns NGT order against Art Of Living on Yamuna floodplains

SC overturns NGT order against Art Of Living on Yamuna floodplains

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has overturned a 2017 National Green Tribunal (NGT) order that held Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's Art of Living Foundation responsible for environmental damage to the Yamuna floodplains. The court directed the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to refund the Rs 5 crore environmental compensation deposited by the foundation and continue the floodplains' rehabilitation work.