India Observers

The recent developments in the rape and murder case of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital have brought to light alarming deficiencies in the investigative processes of the Kolkata Police. The Supreme Court's serious concerns underscore a critical failure that not only jeopardizes the pursuit of justice in this particular case but also threatens public confidence in the legal and law enforcement systems at large. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta's observations about the discrepancies in crime scene handling and the delayed securing of the area are particularly troubling. The fact that the Daily Diary entry was made early in the morning, yet the crime scene remained unsecured until late evening, suggests a significant lapse in protocol. Such delays can lead to contamination or alteration of evidence, which appears to have occurred here, as indicated by the CBI's report of crucial evidence being “altered” before their involvement. Chief Justice DY Chandrachu...

 The Supreme Court's decision to grant mineral-rich states the authority to collect past dues on royalties from mining companies, starting from April 1, 2005, marks a significant moment in the ongoing tug-of-war between state rights and federal oversight in India's resource management. By allowing these payments to be spread over 12 years, the Court has provided a balanced solution, enabling states to recover much-needed funds without placing an undue burden on the mining companies that fuel a substantial portion of the economy. However, the Court's prohibition against imposing penalties on these payments underscores a cautious approach, acknowledging the need to support both the states and the mining sector. This ruling effectively nullifies the states' long-standing demand for royalties dating back to 1989, a demand the Central government argued could severely impact the public sector, with potential losses amounting to ₹70,000 crore. The implications of this judgment...

 In a high-stakes legal development, the Supreme Court of India delivered its verdict today on the plea filed by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, challenging his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the ongoing alleged excise policy scam. The landmark judgment, rendered by a bench led by Justice Sanjiv Khanna, grants interim bail to Kejriwal but keeps him in custody due to his ongoing judicial remand in a separate CBI case. The Supreme Court’s decision on May 17 to reserve judgment marked a critical juncture in the case, as it scrutinized the legality of Kejriwal’s arrest. During the hearings, Additional Solicitor General SV Raju presented evidence suggesting that illicit funds were allegedly channeled to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) through hawala networks. Raju claimed that the ED had uncovered communications between Kejriwal and hawala operators discussing the proceeds from the purported crime. In response, Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing Kejriwal,...

The NEET UG 2024 exam results have sparked nationwide controversy, with allegations of paper leaks and irregularities. These claims have led to demands for a re-exam and prompted the Supreme Court to issue a notice to the National Testing Agency (NTA). Political Stands and Reactions Political leaders have reacted strongly to the controversy. Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra have voiced concerns over the legitimacy of the results, with Rahul Gandhi pledging to represent the affected students in parliament. Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister M.K. Stalin reiterated his opposition to NEET, citing social justice concerns. Maharashtra's Medical Education Minister, Hasan Mushrif, demanded immediate cancellation of the results due to unfair practices. Historical Context of Exam Irregularities This incident is not isolated. NEET and other government exams have faced similar issues in the past, undermining the credibility of these crucial tests and causing distress among applicants and th...

  India’s  Supreme Court  is currently deliberating on a landmark case centered around changing the Special Marriage Act and Foreign Marriage Act to acknowledge same-sex marriages. The five-judge panel, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, is concentrating on the legal aspects, steering clear of potential impacts on non-heterosexual partnerships and private rules like the Hindu Marriages Act. The government’s opposition to recognizing same-sex marriage as a legal institution is rooted in the belief that it’s an urban elite concept, emphasizing the need for parliamentary discussion. However, the Supreme Court challenges this perspective, highlighting the complexity of gender beyond biological categories. The case has brought attention to the struggles faced by marginalized groups. Senior Attorney K.V. Vishwanathan passionately advocated for a transgender individual seeking recognition for same-sex marriages, underscoring the urgent need for legal protection. The ongoing de...

  In a shocking incident amid ethnic conflict in   Manipur , a distressing video emerged on May 4, showing two Kuki women being paraded naked by men believed to be from the Meitei community. The women were subjected to sexual assault and molestation during the incident. The Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud, expressed grave concern over this gross violation of human rights and condemned the use of women as instruments of violence. The Supreme Court gave the government time to intervene and act decisively, but asserted that if no action is taken, the court will step in to address the matter. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condemned the incident, stating that the guilty would not be spared. The ethnic unrest in Manipur stemmed from clashes between the Meitei tribe, with a majority in the valley, and the Kuki tribe, with a majority in the hills. The Meiteis were demanding Scheduled Tribes (ST) status. The incident sparked widespread condemnation and calls for action, lead...