News for 'bench'

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.

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.

Supreme Court Intervenes For Water Sports Coach Bilquis Mir

Supreme Court Intervenes For Water Sports Coach Bilquis Mir

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court has directed the Jammu and Kashmir administration to issue a no-objection certificate and relieving order to international water sports coach Bilquis Mir, enabling her to join the Indian National Kayaking and Canoeing Team as chief coach for the Asian Games. This ruling came after PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti criticised the bureaucratic hurdles faced by Mir, highlighting systemic issues within the administration.

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.

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.

Coco Gauff saves two match-points to beat Mirra Andreeva and make US Open semis

Coco Gauff saves two match-points to beat Mirra Andreeva and make US Open semis

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Coco Gauff staged a remarkable comeback at the US Open, saving two match points to defeat Mirra Andreeva 2-6 7-6(7) 6-2 and secure her spot in the semi-finals. The 2023 champion overcame a poor start and a challenging tiebreak to win, setting up a clash with second seed Elena Rybakina.

SC to consider issues linked to Delhi PG collapse on Thursday

SC to consider issues linked to Delhi PG collapse on Thursday

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court will consider issues related to the Satya Niketan building collapse, which killed seven students, and has called for a time-bound inspection and safety audit of PG accommodations and similar establishments across Delhi. The court noted the overlap with its ongoing pan-India monitoring of unauthorised constructions and safety violations.

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.

SC junks PIL seeking mandatory ethanol labelling at petrol pumps

SC junks PIL seeking mandatory ethanol labelling at petrol pumps

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking mandatory and uniform labelling of ethanol percentage in petrol at fuel pumps. The petitioner, Narendra Kumar Goswami, was advised to approach the jurisdictional high court for relief, with the Attorney General arguing it was a proxy litigation.

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.

Bombay HC flags Aadhaar, PAN card fraud by infiltrators

Bombay HC flags Aadhaar, PAN card fraud by infiltrators

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

The Bombay High Court has identified a worrying trend of foreign nationals infiltrating India, fraudulently acquiring documents like Aadhaar and PAN cards to claim Indian citizenship. The court highlighted serious gaps in inter-agency coordination and document verification, noting that some individuals have engaged in anti-national activities. It urged the Centre to amend the Aadhaar Act to facilitate tracing and deportation, and to establish procedures for dealing with human trafficking and border infiltration. The ruling came during a case involving an Afghan national who overstayed his visa and obtained fake documents to secure an Indian passport.

World Cup winner Marcos Llorente announces shock international retirement

World Cup winner Marcos Llorente announces shock international retirement

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

Spain's World Cup-winning defender Marcos Llorente, 31, has announced his retirement from international football after 27 caps, citing a deeply personal decision despite his young age and continued good form.

Married daughters entitled to compassionate appointment: HC

Married daughters entitled to compassionate appointment: HC

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

The Chhattisgarh High Court has ruled that married daughters of deceased employees are entitled to compassionate appointments, stating that marital status should not be a disqualification. The court found the bank's rejection of claims based solely on marital status to be arbitrary and discriminatory, especially when married sons were granted similar benefits. This landmark decision emphasizes dependency over marital status as the criterion for such appointments.

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.

US Open PIX: Andreeva defies early setback, fends off Potapova to seal quarterfinal berth

US Open PIX: Andreeva defies early setback, fends off Potapova to seal quarterfinal berth

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Fifth-seeded Mirra Andreeva fought back from a set down to defeat Anastasia Potapova 5-7, 6-4, 6-3, reaching her first US Open quarterfinal after Potapova's injury.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Footpaths for walking: SC asks states, UTs for update

Footpaths for walking: SC asks states, UTs for update

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has declared the right to walk on demarcated footpaths a fundamental right, directing all states and Union Territories to ensure proper, encroachment-free pedestrian spaces. The court emphasised that footpaths are integral to human life and safety, and states must respond to advisories issued by central ministries regarding their implementation.

SC Upholds Hanging, Stresses Dignity in Execution

SC Upholds Hanging, Stresses Dignity in Execution

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court of India has dismissed a petition seeking to abolish execution by hanging, affirming its legality while strongly emphasising that the State must carry out capital punishment in a manner that minimises suffering and preserves human dignity, even for condemned prisoners.

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.

SC says revisit CBSE's 3-language policy, don't put pressure on children

SC says revisit CBSE's 3-language policy, don't put pressure on children

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has urged the CBSE to reconsider the implementation of its three-language policy for Class 9 students, emphasising that children should not be subjected to undue pressure. The court highlighted concerns about infrastructure, the starting point of the policy, and the definition of 'native' languages.

CSE 2025: SC to hear Centre plea on OBC creamy-layer rule

CSE 2025: SC to hear Centre plea on OBC creamy-layer rule

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

The Supreme Court will consider the Centre's plea for clarification on the applicability of its March 11 judgement regarding OBC creamy-layer criteria for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2025. The government highlights practical difficulties and potential unequal treatment of candidates if the ruling is applied retrospectively, as the CSE 2025 selection process concluded before the verdict. The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) seeks to proceed with service allocation based on the pre-March 11 criteria to avoid disruption to training schedules and ensure fairness for candidates.

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 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.

Centre defers Census in Manipur amid NRC demands

Centre defers Census in Manipur amid NRC demands

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

The Union government has deferred census operations in Manipur, originally scheduled to begin on September 1, following persistent demands from civil society organisations for the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) to address concerns about demographic changes due to alleged illegal immigration.

'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.

'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".

High Court Calls For Fairer WFI Maternity Policy For Athletes

High Court Calls For Fairer WFI Maternity Policy For Athletes

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

The Delhi High Court has urged the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) to establish clear guidelines and timelines for female athletes returning to competitive sports after maternity leave. The court's observations came during a hearing for grappler Vinesh Phogat, who is seeking permission to participate in selection trials for the 2026 Senior World Championships after her maternity break. Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma highlighted the unfairness faced by women athletes post-childbirth and criticised the WFI's current policies, hinting at the need for a balanced framework.

'No legal authority': HC nullifies Sharia body's order

'No legal authority': HC nullifies Sharia body's order

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

The Chhattisgarh High Court has nullified a divorce order issued by a private Sharia body, stating that religious institutions cannot assume the authority of a court or use religious belief to determine an individual's legal rights. The ruling reinforces the supremacy of the constitutional framework and the rule of law over extra-judicial forums.

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 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.

Right to speedy trial a valuable right of victim too: SC

Right to speedy trial a valuable right of victim too: SC

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Observing that right to speedy trial is also a "valuable right" of a victim, the Supreme Court on Monday set aside an order of the Allahabad high court which had kept in abeyance the trial in a murder case.

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.

LaLiga: Barcelona secure first home win of season against Athletic Bilbao

LaLiga: Barcelona secure first home win of season against Athletic Bilbao

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Raphinha and Fermin Lopez scored for Barcelona in their 2-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao at the Camp Nou, marking their first home win of the LaLiga season and putting them level on points at the top of the table.

Long incarceration: HC grants bail to 2 in terror conspiracy case

Long incarceration: HC grants bail to 2 in terror conspiracy case

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

The Delhi High Court has granted bail to Sobiya Aziz and Kamran Ashraf Reshi, accused in a terror conspiracy case related to Jammu and Kashmir and other major Indian cities. The court cited their nearly five-year incarceration and the slow pace of the trial as reasons for the decision, imposing strict conditions on their social media use.

Tata Curvv EV Just Got Cheaper, And More Attractive

Tata Curvv EV Just Got Cheaper, And More Attractive

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

The Tata Curvv EV Series X keeps its distinctive coupe-SUV design but becomes a more attractive package with a standard 55kWh battery, more features and a lower starting price of Rs 16.99 lakh.

SC seeks Centre's report on implementation of NEET reforms

SC seeks Centre's report on implementation of NEET reforms

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

The Supreme Court has directed the Centre to submit an affidavit detailing the steps taken to implement the recommendations of the Radhakrishnan panel and the Nandan Nilekani committee for institutionalising reforms in the National Testing Agency (NTA) and improving NEET exam processes.

Modi's 'neighbours' meet Rahul, seek help to prevent eviction

Modi's 'neighbours' meet Rahul, seek help to prevent eviction

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

Residents from three slum clusters near the Prime Minister's residence in New Delhi met Rahul Gandhi, seeking his intervention against their proposed relocation to Savda Ghevra. They claim the move, mandated by a Delhi High Court order, would severely disrupt their livelihoods, children's education, and access to essential services, despite the Centre citing defence infrastructure security as the reason for eviction.