News for 'oka'

Day after mother's passing, retiring SC judge Oka delivers 11 verdicts

Day after mother's passing, retiring SC judge Oka delivers 11 verdicts

Rediff.com23 May 2025

Justice Abhay S Oka, known for his unwavering commitment to liberty and constitutional values, bid farewell to the Supreme Court of India. In his final address, he stressed his dedication to upholding constitutional liberties, emphasizing that it was his "honest endeavor" to fulfill the dream of the Constitution's framers. He also expressed gratitude to the bar and his colleagues for their support and shared heartfelt memories from his time on the bench. Justice Oka's departure marks the end of a distinguished judicial career spanning over two decades, during which he served as a judge of the Bombay High Court, Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court, and ultimately, as a Supreme Court justice.

Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri Arrives On OTT

Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri Arrives On OTT

Rediff.com13 Feb 2026

Drama, dazzle, detectives, dhamaal, it's there on OTT this week. Take your pick from Sukanya Verma's eclectic menu.

Meenaakshi Is Anything But Ordinary

Meenaakshi Is Anything But Ordinary

Rediff.com16 Jan 2026

Meenaakshi Chaudhary has that rare fashion superpower where she can make even the most low-key outfit feel glam.

Judge dissents as CJI-led bench recalls pro-green order

Judge dissents as CJI-led bench recalls pro-green order

Rediff.com18 Nov 2025

The Supreme Court, in a 2:1 majority, has recalled its previous judgment prohibiting the Centre from granting retrospective environmental clearances to projects violating environmental norms, paving the way for reconsideration of the issue.

SC Nod For Green Crackers; Sale Restricted In Delhi-NCR

SC Nod For Green Crackers; Sale Restricted In Delhi-NCR

Rediff.com26 Sep 2025

The Supreme Court has allowed certified manufacturers to produce green crackers, but restricted their sale in Delhi-NCR without approval. The court has asked the Centre to review the ban on firecracker manufacturing in the region.

'Refrain from name-calling': Ex-judges slam Shah's attack on VP candidate

'Refrain from name-calling': Ex-judges slam Shah's attack on VP candidate

Rediff.com25 Aug 2025

A group of retired judges has criticized Home Minister Amit Shah's remarks about opposition vice-presidential candidate B Sudershan Reddy and the Salwa Judum judgement, calling them 'unfortunate'.

Crossing all limits: ED faces SC scrutiny for misuse of powers

Crossing all limits: ED faces SC scrutiny for misuse of powers

Rediff.com23 May 2025

The Supreme Court of India has repeatedly criticized the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for exceeding its authority and misusing its powers. The latest rebuke came on Thursday, when the court accused the agency of 'crossing all limits' in a money laundering probe against a Tamil Nadu state-run liquor retailer. This follows a string of similar observations by the Supreme Court and high courts across India, raising concerns about the ED's investigative practices and the potential for misuse of its powers.

Can't jail for ideology: SC frees accused in RSS leader's murder

Can't jail for ideology: SC frees accused in RSS leader's murder

Rediff.com22 May 2025

The Supreme Court granted bail to Abdul Sathar, a former PFI leader, in the 2022 murder of RSS leader Srinivasan in Kerala's Palakkad district. The court stated that there is no direct role attributed to Sathar in the assassination. The Kerala High Court previously granted bail to 17 PFI members accused of instigating communal violence. The NIA is investigating the case.

Democratic country mustn't function like...: SC flags rising bail rejections

Democratic country mustn't function like...: SC flags rising bail rejections

Rediff.com18 Mar 2025

"It is shocking that the Supreme Court is adjudicating bail pleas in cases that should be disposed of at the trial court level. The system is being burdened unnecessarily," Justice Oka said while hearing a bail plea.

Hare Krishna temple belongs to ISKCON Bengaluru, not Mumbai: SC

Hare Krishna temple belongs to ISKCON Bengaluru, not Mumbai: SC

Rediff.com16 May 2025

ISKCON Bangalore had moved the top court on June 2, 2011 challenging the high court's verdict of May 23, 2011.

SC refuses plea to file FIR against cash row judge

SC refuses plea to file FIR against cash row judge

Rediff.com21 May 2025

The Supreme Court on Wednesday refused to hear a plea seeking a first information report (FIR) against high court judge Yashwant Varma in connection with the discovery of cash from this official residence in the capital.

SC to regain full strength with appointment of 3 judges

SC to regain full strength with appointment of 3 judges

Rediff.com30 May 2025

Three judges, including two high court chief justices, were appointed to the Supreme Court on Thursday.

Collegium recommends elevation of 3 HC judges to SC

Collegium recommends elevation of 3 HC judges to SC

Rediff.com26 May 2025

The Supreme Court collegium has recommended the appointment of Karnataka High Court Chief Justice N V Anjaria, Gauhati High Court Chief Justice Vijay Bishnoi, and Bombay High Court judge Justice A S Chandurkar as judges of the Supreme Court. The five-member collegium, headed by Chief Justice B R Gavai, decided to recommend the names to fill three existing vacancies in the top court. The appointments follow the superannuation of former Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, and Justices Abhay S Oka and Hrishikesh Roy. The Supreme Court, which has a sanctioned strength of 34 judges, is currently working with 31 judges.

Informing grounds of arrest constitutional requirement: SC

Informing grounds of arrest constitutional requirement: SC

Rediff.com8 Feb 2025

The Supreme Court of India has ruled that informing an accused of the grounds for their arrest is not a formality but a mandatory constitutional requirement. The court declared the arrest of Vihaan Kumar, who was accused of financial fraud, as unconstitutional and ordered his immediate release. The ruling emphasizes the importance of procedural safeguards in criminal law and highlights the fundamental rights of arrested individuals. The court also expressed disapproval of the police's treatment of Kumar, including handcuffing and chaining him while he was in the hospital.

SC fines man with Rs 4.54 cr for cutting over 400 trees

SC fines man with Rs 4.54 cr for cutting over 400 trees

Rediff.com26 Mar 2025

A bench of Justices Abhay S Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan made the observation while rejecting the plea of a man who had chopped down 454 trees in the protected Taj Trapezium Zone.

Ministership or freedom: SC gives Senthil Balaji a choice

Ministership or freedom: SC gives Senthil Balaji a choice

Rediff.com23 Apr 2025

The Supreme Court of India has asked DMK leader V Senthil Balaji to choose between his ministerial post in Tamil Nadu and his freedom. The court expressed concern over Balaji's reinstatement as a minister despite being granted bail in a money laundering case related to the "cash-for-job" scam. The court fears that Balaji's presence as a minister could influence witnesses in the case. The court has given Balaji until April 28 to make a decision.

SC says maternity leave is a right, overturns HC verdict

SC says maternity leave is a right, overturns HC verdict

Rediff.com23 May 2025

The Supreme Court of India has ruled that maternity leave is a fundamental right and cannot be denied to a woman based on the number of children she has from previous relationships. The court overturned a Madras High Court decision that had denied maternity leave to a Tamil Nadu government school teacher who had two children from a previous marriage. The Supreme Court emphasized the importance of reproductive rights, including maternity benefits, as part of international human rights law. The court also highlighted the right to life under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which includes the right to health, dignity, and reproductive choice. The decision has significant implications for women's rights and reproductive healthcare in India.

Video of girl fleeing with books during demolition shocked all: SC

Video of girl fleeing with books during demolition shocked all: SC

Rediff.com1 Apr 2025

The Supreme Court of India expressed shock over a viral video showing an eight-year-old girl fleeing her shanty as it was demolished by a bulldozer during an anti-encroachment drive in Uttar Pradesh. The court mentioned the video while hearing a case concerning illegal demolition in Prayagraj. The incident drew criticism from opposition parties, while local authorities defended the demolition, citing court orders and multiple notices issued to the encroacher.

SC caps IPS deputation in CAPFs, boosts cadre officers

SC caps IPS deputation in CAPFs, boosts cadre officers

Rediff.com26 May 2025

The Supreme Court of India has ordered a progressive reduction in the deputation of Indian Police Service (IPS) officers to Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) over the next two years, citing concerns over the delayed promotions of cadre officers. The court's decision aims to address the long-standing grievances of CAPF officers who feel their promotional prospects are hampered by the presence of IPS officers in higher ranks. The ruling also mandates a cadre review of the CAPFs to be completed within six months, addressing the issue of stagnation in the service hierarchy. The court's decision acknowledges the valuable contributions of CAPF officers while also recognizing the need to balance their promotional prospects with the operational requirements of the forces.

If ED has fundamental rights, think about people's rights too: SC

If ED has fundamental rights, think about people's rights too: SC

Rediff.com11 Apr 2025

The Supreme Court of India has criticized the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for focusing solely on its own fundamental rights while pursuing a money laundering case related to the Nagrik Apurti Nigam (NAN) scam in Chhattisgarh. The court questioned the agency's attempt to transfer the case to New Delhi, noting that the agency's petition under Article 32 of the Constitution is typically reserved for individuals seeking redressal for fundamental rights violations.

SC to hear on Friday plea seeking FIR into cash discovery at judge's house

SC to hear on Friday plea seeking FIR into cash discovery at judge's house

Rediff.com28 Mar 2025

The Supreme Court will hear a plea on Friday seeking a direction to Delhi Police to lodge an FIR over the alleged discovery of semi-burnt stash of cash from the official residence of High Court judge Yashwant Varma. The plea was filed by lawyer Mathews J Nedumpara and three others on Sunday. It challenges the 1991 judgement in the K Veeraswami case, in which the top court ruled that no criminal proceedings could be initiated against a judge of the high court or the top court without the prior nod of the Chief Justice of India. The alleged cash discovery happened following a fire at Varma's Lutyens Delhi residence on March 14, prompting the fire officers to rush to the spot. A Supreme Court-appointed in-house committee visited the residence of Justice Varma on Tuesday to commence its inquiry in the matter. Justice Varma denounced any insinuation and said no cash was ever placed in the storeroom either by him or any of his family members.

It shocks our conscience: SC slams UP over Prayagraj demolition

It shocks our conscience: SC slams UP over Prayagraj demolition

Rediff.com25 Mar 2025

The Supreme Court of India has criticized the Uttar Pradesh government for its "high-handed" demolition of homes in Prayagraj, ordering the reconstruction of the demolished structures. The court expressed concern over the manner in which notices were served and the swiftness of the demolition, stating that it "shocks our conscience." The court has allowed the reconstruction of the homes at the petitioners' expense, provided they file appeals and do not claim ownership of the land. The matter has been adjourned to allow the petitioners to file undertakings.

SC's big backing for free speech, quashes FIR against Congress MP

SC's big backing for free speech, quashes FIR against Congress MP

Rediff.com28 Mar 2025

The Supreme Court of India has strongly criticized the police for suppressing freedom of speech by filing FIRs against artists for their performances, stating that mere recitation of a poem, stand-up comedy, or any form of art cannot be alleged to incite hatred or animosity between communities. The court quashed an FIR against Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi, who was booked for a song performed at a mass marriage function, emphasizing that such actions stifle legitimate expressions of view in a free society.

Are you really working for welfare of common man, SC asks Centre

Are you really working for welfare of common man, SC asks Centre

Rediff.com28 Apr 2025

The Supreme Court of India has reprimanded the central government for failing to implement a cashless treatment scheme for road accident victims. The court expressed its concern over the delay in formulating the scheme, which is designed to provide immediate medical care to accident victims within the crucial "golden hour." The court highlighted that despite a statutory provision requiring the scheme's implementation, the government has not taken any action, prompting the court to intervene. The court also criticized the General Insurance Council (GIC) for raising objections to the scheme and delaying its implementation. The court has now directed the government to notify the scheme within a week and has scheduled a hearing on the matter for May 13.

SC judges make assets public, CJI owns 2015 Maruti Swift

SC judges make assets public, CJI owns 2015 Maruti Swift

Rediff.com6 May 2025

The Supreme Court of India has made public the asset details of its judges, including Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna who has Rs 55.75 lakh in a fixed deposit, a three-bedroom DDA flat in south Delhi, and a four-bedroom apartment measuring 2,446 square feet in the Commonwealth Games Village. The court has also uploaded the complete process of appointments to the high courts and the Supreme Court on its website for public awareness.

SC rejects NIA plea against bail given to accused in RSS leader's murder case

SC rejects NIA plea against bail given to accused in RSS leader's murder case

Rediff.com16 Apr 2025

The Supreme Court of India has declined to interfere with the bail granted to 17 members of the Popular Front of India (PFI) in connection with the 2022 murder of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Srinivasan in Kerala. The court noted that the Kerala High Court, which granted bail, has the power to revoke it if the conditions are violated. The NIA had sought cancellation of the bail, alleging the accused had violated bail conditions and contacted witnesses. The accused are also facing trial for allegedly instigating communal violence in Kerala and other parts of the country.

SC upholds firecracker ban in Delhi-NCR over pollution concerns

SC upholds firecracker ban in Delhi-NCR over pollution concerns

Rediff.com3 Apr 2025

The Supreme Court of India has refused to relax the ban on firecrackers in the Delhi-NCR region, citing continued alarming levels of air pollution. The court emphasized the right to a pollution-free atmosphere as a fundamental right, stating that the ban is necessary to protect public health. The court also highlighted the issue of noise pollution caused by firecrackers. The decision comes after a batch of petitions were filed by firecracker manufacturers seeking relaxation of the ban.

In a first, Supreme Court may revoke senior advocate's designation

In a first, Supreme Court may revoke senior advocate's designation

Rediff.com21 Mar 2025

The Supreme Court of India has decided to issue a showcause notice to senior advocate Rishi Malhotra, asking why the designation conferred upon him by the apex court should not be revoked. The decision comes in the wake of allegations of misconduct against Malhotra, including suppressing material facts in multiple cases and making misleading statements despite warnings from the court. The full court, convened by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, has decided to give Malhotra one more opportunity to explain his conduct before stripping him of the senior designation. The court has expressed concerns about the effectiveness of the senior designation system and whether it ensures that only deserving advocates are being designated.

Prayagraj demolitions: SC orders Rs 10 lakh compensation to houseowners

Prayagraj demolitions: SC orders Rs 10 lakh compensation to houseowners

Rediff.com1 Apr 2025

The Supreme Court of India has criticized the Uttar Pradesh government and Prayagraj Development Authority for the demolition of homes in the city, calling the actions "inhuman and illegal." The court ordered the authority to pay Rs 10 lakh compensation each to the homeowners, stating that the demolitions were carried out in a "high-handed" manner without following due legal process. The petitioners, whose homes were demolished, argued that the state government wrongly believed the land belonged to gangster-politician Atiq Ahmed. The Allahabad High Court had previously rejected their plea challenging the demolition.

Chhattisgarh liquor scam: ED faces SC scrutiny over 'half-baked' reply

Chhattisgarh liquor scam: ED faces SC scrutiny over 'half-baked' reply

Rediff.com17 Jan 2025

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) faced criticism from the Supreme Court for filing a "half-baked" reply in a bail matter related to the Chhattisgarh liquor scam. The court expressed dissatisfaction with the situation, questioning the accountability of the ED and its advocate-on-record. The ED's additional solicitor general, S.V. Raju, attributed the error to a miscommunication and assured the court that a departmental inquiry would be initiated.

SC rejects plea seeking FIR in cash recovery incident

SC rejects plea seeking FIR in cash recovery incident

Rediff.com28 Mar 2025

The Supreme Court has dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking the registration of an FIR over the alleged discovery of burnt wads of cash at the official residence of Delhi High Court judge Yashwant Varma. The court said an in-house inquiry was underway and there would be several options open to the Chief Justice of India after the probe's conclusion.

Politicians' promise of death penalty fuels mob rule: SC judge

Politicians' promise of death penalty fuels mob rule: SC judge

Rediff.com1 Sep 2024

He further commented on the current state of public discourse, saying a "mob rule" is being created wherein politicians capitalise on certain incidents and assure people of the death penalty for culprits even though only the judiciary has the power to pass legal verdicts.

Cash row: CJI assures bar leaders on demand to withdraw judge's transfer

Cash row: CJI assures bar leaders on demand to withdraw judge's transfer

Rediff.com27 Mar 2025

The Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna has assured bar leaders that he will consider their demand for withdrawal of the collegium's recommendation to transfer Delhi High Court's Justice Yashwant Varma. The decision came after representatives of six bar associations of different high courts met with the CJI and other collegium members. The bar associations are protesting the proposed repatriation of Justice Varma to his parent high court, alleging that the evidence in a fire incident at his residence was tampered with. The bar associations have also raised concerns about the non-registration of an FIR in the incident.

SC to examine Lokpal's jurisdiction over HC judges

SC to examine Lokpal's jurisdiction over HC judges

Rediff.com18 Mar 2025

The Supreme Court of India will examine the jurisdiction of the Lokpal, India's anti-corruption ombudsman, in entertaining complaints against sitting high court judges. The court is considering a suo motu proceeding initiated over the Lokpal's January 27 order on the issue. The case involves two complaints filed against a sitting additional judge of a high court, alleging that he influenced a judge of the subordinate judiciary and a judge of the same high court set to deal with a suit filed against the complainant by a private company.

SC slams cops for not appealing acquittals in anti-Sikh riots cases

SC slams cops for not appealing acquittals in anti-Sikh riots cases

Rediff.com10 Feb 2025

The Supreme Court has expressed its dissatisfaction with the Delhi Police's handling of appeals against acquittals in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots cases. The court emphasized the need for serious and earnest prosecution, not just for the sake of it. This comes in the wake of a public interest litigation filed by a former Shiromani Gurudwara Prabhandak Committee member, seeking justice for the victims of the violence.

Air pollution: SC questions AAP govt over trucks entry in Delhi

Air pollution: SC questions AAP govt over trucks entry in Delhi

Rediff.com22 Nov 2024

On November 18, the apex court directed all Delhi-NCR states to immediately set up teams to strictly enforce anti-pollution GRAP 4 restrictions, making it clear that the curbs would continue till further orders.

SC stays Lokpal order on complaints against HC judge

SC stays Lokpal order on complaints against HC judge

Rediff.com20 Feb 2025

The Supreme Court of India has stayed a Lokpal order that allowed complaints to be filed against a sitting high court judge. The court termed the order "something very, very disturbing" and a concern for the independence of the judiciary. The bench issued notices to the Centre, the Lokpal registrar, and the complainant, directing them to keep the identity of the judge confidential. The court will hear the matter again on March 18.

No tree felling in Mumbai's Aarey without our nod: SC

No tree felling in Mumbai's Aarey without our nod: SC

Rediff.com10 Jan 2025

The Supreme Court of India has directed the tree authority of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation to halt any further tree felling in Mumbai's Aarey colony without its permission. The order comes after the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRCL) informed the court that there were no pending proposals to cut more trees in the area. The court has previously permitted the felling of a limited number of trees for a metro rail project, but has also imposed penalties on the MMRCL for exceeding its permitted limits.

First look: Naga Chaitanya's Oka Laila Kosam

First look: Naga Chaitanya's Oka Laila Kosam

Rediff.com22 Aug 2014

The film is named after a song from the late Akkineni Nageswara's film Raamudu Kaadu Krishnudu.

SC fines Centre for appeal against pension to soldier's wife

SC fines Centre for appeal against pension to soldier's wife

Rediff.com3 Dec 2024

The Supreme Court on Tuesday imposed a cost of Rs 50,000 on the Centre for filing an appeal against an order of the Armed Forces Tribunal, which granted a liberalised pension to the widow of a soldier who died during a counter-terrorism patrol in Jammu and Kashmir.