Category: Legal & Constitution

The recent discovery of large sums of cash at the residence of Delhi High Court judge Justice Yashwant Varma has intensified discussions about corruption within India’s higher judiciary. This incident has sparked calls for mandatory public disclosure of judges’ assets and liabilities. Currently, judges are not required to disclose this information, unlike other public servants.…

Recently, a special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Court in Chandigarh acquitted former Punjab and Haryana High Court Judge Nirmal Yadav after a lengthy 14-year legal battle. The case, known as the ‘Cash at Judge’s Door’ case, involved serious allegations of bribery and corruption. Following the verdict, Justice Yadav expressed her faith in the judiciary,…

The Lok Sabha has recently passed the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2024. This legislation aims to update India’s maritime laws to align with international standards. It replaces the outdated Indian Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, 1925. The new Bill is part of a broader initiative to eliminate colonial-era laws and streamline maritime…

Recently, the Indian Ports Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. This bill aims to amend the Indian Ports Act of 1908. The legislation seeks to modernise port operations in India. It reflects the changes in international norms and environmental standards. The bill is designed to encourage planned development in…

Recently, the Supreme Court of India mandated the establishment of dedicated cells to expedite the processing of mercy petitions from death row convicts. This directive arose from concerns regarding the inordinate delays in executing death sentences, which the court deemed dehumanising. The ruling followed the commutation of two convicts’ death sentences in a high-profile case,…

Papua New Guinea (PNG) has recently implemented a temporary shutdown of Facebook. This action is described by the government as a “test” aimed at combating hate speech, misinformation, and explicit content. The shutdown began unexpectedly and has left approximately 1.3 million users unable to access the platform. This decision has ignited a fierce debate over…

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is undergoing scrutiny and proposed reforms. A Parliamentary panel has recommended various changes to enhance its operational efficiency and accountability. These reforms aim to address current challenges faced by the agency, including personnel shortages and legal limitations on its investigative powers. Context of Recommendations The Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee…

The Supreme Court of India recently made ruling regarding the Goods and Services Tax (GST). This ruling allows companies to rectify human or arithmetical errors in their tax filings without facing penalties. The decision aims to ease compliance for taxpayers and promote a more business-friendly tax environment. Context of the Ruling The ruling emerged from…

The recent execution of Shahzadi Khan in the UAE has raised concerns about Indian nationals on death row abroad. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed her execution in response to a petition from her father. Additionally, two more Indians were executed shortly after. Current Statistics on Death Row Indians According to the MEA, 49…

Recently, the Telangana Assembly adopted the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act, 1994. This move aims to regulate organ transplantation and prevent illegal commercial dealings in human organs. The state previously had its own legislation, the Telangana Transplantation of Human Organs Act, 1995. However, the adoption of the Central Act, particularly its 2011 amendments,…