The week of 13–18 July 2026 reflected the breadth of issues currently shaping India's legal and constitutional landscape. The Supreme Court and various High Courts dealt with questions spanning electoral processes, religious institutions, criminal justice, infrastructure, technology, consumer protection, and administrative accountability. Alongside politically significant matters such as the Ayodhya trust petitions, the Gyanvapi mediation proposal, and electoral roll revisions, the judiciary also engaged with emerging policy questions including AI regulation for courts, digital evaluation in examinations, aviation regulation, and access to affordable medicines
I. Key Developments:
SC Issues Notice In Petitions In The Ram Mandir Donations' Case
Development: The Supreme Court on 13th July 2026, issued notice to the Union and UP Governments, and the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, on petitions seeking a CBI probe into alleged embezzlement of Ram Mandir donations. A bench of CJI Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana directed the State's SIT to file a status report, including its composition, in a sealed cover, and declined the Solicitor General's request to defer notice to the Trust. It also refused to furnish petitioners a copy of the status report at this stage, with the CJI calling it an ongoing investigation. The four petitions seek a CBI probe, a forensic or CAG audit of the Trust's finances, restraints on major financial decisions, and public disclosure of donation records. The Allahabad High Court had earlier declined similar pleas to avoid parallel proceedings. The matter is to be heard on 20th July 2026.
Hindu And Muslim Parties Reject Supreme Court Proposal For Mediated Settlement Of 3 Major Temple-Mosque Disputes
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Supreme Court proposed mediation under the Samadhan Samaroh 2026 initiative to resolve the Gyanvapi (Varanasi), Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi–Shahi Idgah (Mathura), and Sambhal mosque disputes. However, Hindu and Muslim parties rejected the offer and chose to continue the legal battle in court. The Gyanvapi case concerns claims that a temple was demolished and a mosque built at the site, while the Muslim side disputes this and says the mosque has long been under Muslim possession. In Mathura, Hindu petitioners seek the removal of the Shahi Idgah Mosque, claiming it stands on Lord Krishna's birthplace, while the case involves questions under the Places of Worship Act, 1991. The Sambhal dispute also involves claims that a mosque was built over a demolished temple; court-ordered surveys in 2024 led to violent clashes that left four people dead. The Court had sought the consent of all litigants to explore an amicable settlement; however, both sides expressed their preference for adjudication through the judicial process.
Absurd To Say Passport Not Citizenship Proof; If You're Living In India, Presumption Is That You're Indian : Justice (Rtd.) Dhulia
Source: LiveLaw
Development: Former Supreme Court judge Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia questioned the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls while responding to the Ministry of External Affairs' (MEA) recent assertion that a passport is only a travel document and not proof of Indian citizenship. The MEA had made this submission before the Supreme Court in the ongoing SIR-related proceedings while opposing petitions challenging the voter roll revision exercise. Speaking at a public event on 12th July, Justice Dhulia termed the position "absurd", observing that a passport is issued only to Indian citizens and should therefore constitute proof of citizenship. He further stressed that where a person has been living in India, the presumption should be that they are an Indian citizen, with the burden of proving otherwise resting on the State. He also cautioned against exclusionary approaches to citizenship verification and underscored the importance of judicial review in safeguarding constitutional rights.
Ayodhya Donation Theft : Nirmohi Akhara Moves Supreme Court Seeking To Restructure Ram Janmabhoomi Trust As Public Trust
Source: Live Law
Development: The Nirmohi Akhara has moved the Supreme Court seeking restructuring of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, alleging that its present composition violates the spirit of the 2019 Ayodhya judgment by excluding the Akhara from temple governance and religious affairs. The plea seeks reconstitution of the Trust as a public trust with independent oversight, inclusion of Ramanandi Bairagi representatives, restoration of the Akhara's traditional role in temple rituals, and appointment of a committee to review implementation of the 2019 verdict. Citing recent allegations of financial irregularities and theft of devotees' offerings, it also seeks a forensic audit of the Trust and restoration of the original Ram Lalla idols, claiming they were unlawfully replaced.
Supreme Court Agrees To Hear Muslims' Appeals Against Bhojshala Temple Verdict, Declines To Allow Namaz There In Interim
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Supreme Court on 14th July issued notice on petitions by Muslim parties challenging the Madhya Pradesh High Court's judgment declaring the Bhojshala-Kamal Maula complex in Dhar a temple of Goddess Saraswati and barring namaz there. A bench of CJI Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana refused to restore the earlier arrangement allowing Friday namaz, but directed the State to provide a separate adjacent open space for Friday namaz between 1 and 3 PM as an ad-hoc arrangement. A 2003 ASI order had permitted both communities to worship on designated days until the High Court quashed it on 15th May 2026. The final hearing is in three weeks.
PIL Before Delhi High Court Alleges Continued Police Surveillance Of Peaceful Protesters At Jantar Mantar
Source: Live Law
Development: A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed before the Delhi High Court alleging that the Delhi Police has subjected peaceful protesters at Jantar Mantar to continuous surveillance during the ongoing Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest. The petition contends that round-the-clock photography, videography, and monitoring of protesters violate their fundamental rights to privacy, dignity, free speech, and peaceful assembly, and seeks directions to restrain indiscriminate surveillance of lawful demonstrations.
Supreme Court Stays Madras High Court's Order Banning Cow Slaughter In Tamil Nadu
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Supreme Court stayed the Madras High Court's order imposing a blanket ban on the slaughter of cows and calves across Tamil Nadu on Bakrid and all other days. A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta issued notice on the Tamil Nadu Government's appeal, observing that the operative portion of the High Court's order prima facie required "correction." The State argued that the direction was contrary to the Tamil Nadu Animal Preservation Act, 1958, which permits the slaughter of certain categories of cows subject to statutory conditions, and that the High Court had granted relief beyond the scope of the Public Interest Litigation, which was limited to regulating slaughter in public places during Bakrid. The Supreme Court stayed the impugned direction and sought responses from the respondents.
Supreme Court Stays Demolitions Of Petitioners' Structures Near Rajasthan Indo-Pak Border For 2 Weeks, Asks Them To Move HC
Development: The Supreme Court on 17th July 2026, declined to entertain a writ petition by eight petitioners challenging the demolition of their structures, including mosques, kabristans and dargahs, near the India-Pakistan border in Rajasthan, and directed them to file an intra-court appeal before a division bench of the Rajasthan High Court. A bench of Justices P.S. Narasimha and Alok Aradhe granted protection for two weeks, ordering no coercive action. against the petitioners till then, while clarifying it had not examined the merits. The demolitions followed the BSF's expanded area of operations to a 50-km radius from the border; a single judge of the Rajasthan High Court had on 13th July 2026 dismissed petitions filed by another set of affected individuals, against the drive, holding the matter concerned national security and that natural justice principles didn't strictly apply.
Delhi Riots: High Court Seeks Delhi Police Response On Sharjeel Imam's Bail Plea
Source: Live Law
Development: The Delhi High Court issued notice on Sharjeel Imam's appeal challenging the trial court's refusal to grant him bail in the 2020 North East Delhi riots larger conspiracy case under the UAPA, seeking a response from the Delhi Police within two weeks. Imam argued that the prolonged delay in trial where charges have yet to be framed entitles him to bail, while the prosecution contended that the complexity of the multi-accused case has prolonged the proceedings. The trial court had rejected bail, citing the Supreme Court's earlier refusal to grant Imam bail and noting that the legal issue of whether prolonged delay in trial justifies bail under the UAPA has been referred by the Supreme Court to a larger Bench for authoritative determination. The High Court will now examine Imam's challenge while the larger legal question remains pending before the Supreme Court.
Gautam Adani denies quid pro quo in US DOJ's decision to drop bribery case, says $10 billion investment proposal had no role
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: Gautam Adani has told a US court that he is unaware of any quid pro quo behind the US Department of Justice's decision to seek dismissal of criminal charges against him in the alleged $250 million bribery case. In an affidavit, Adani denied that his proposed $10 billion investment in the US was linked to the DOJ's move, stating he was unaware of the indictment when he announced the investment in 2024 and that the DOJ had later clarified it would not consider the proposal while deciding whether to drop the case. The affidavit was filed after Judge Nicholas Garaufis sought clarification on whether any promise or agreement was connected to the dismissal before ruling on the DOJ's request to withdraw the indictment.
Chhattisgarh Governor Signs Freedom of Religion Bill, Introduces Strict Penalties for Illegal Conversions
Source: News on AIR
Development: Chhattisgarh Governor Shri Ramen Deka has signed the Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Bill, 2026 which will come into force as law once published in the official gazette. Passed in the previous session of the state legislative assembly, the bill introduces stringent provisions against unlawful religious conversions, requiring anyone seeking to convert to first submit an application before an authorised officer. It prescribes imprisonment of seven to ten years and a fine of ₹5 lakh for illegal conversion, rising to ten to twenty years and a ₹10 lakh fine where the victim belongs to a vulnerable group such as minors, women, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, OBCs or tribal communities. In cases of mass conversion, the punishment ranges from ten years to life imprisonment along with a fine of up to ₹25 lakh.
Supreme Court Defers Bengaluru Municipal Corporation Elections To December In View Of Karnataka SIR Exercise
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Supreme Court on 17th July directed that elections to the five municipal corporations in Bengaluru be held in December 2026, taking note of the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Karnataka. A bench of CJI Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana observed that since the SIR exercise is expected to conclude in November, the civic polls should be scheduled after it. The Court passed the order on a request by Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for the State of Karnataka. It had earlier set 31st August 2026 as the deadline for completing the elections to the Bengaluru civic bodies, a deadline now effectively pushed back by about four months.
Third Language Should Be Introduced In Class 6, End By Class 9: Supreme Court On CBSE's 3-Language Policy
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: During the hearing of Tamil Nadu's plea challenging the Madras High Court's direction to establish Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs) in every district, the Supreme Court examined the State's objections to the scheme. Tamil Nadu has opposed JNVs over concerns relating to the implementation of the CBSE curriculum and the three-language policy. During the hearing, the Court questioned the introduction of a new compulsory language at the Class 9 level. A bench of Justices B.V. Nagarathna and R. Mahadevan observed that third-language learning should ideally begin in Classes 5 or 6 and be completed by Class 9 to avoid burdening students preparing for board examinations. The Court expressed concern over the additional academic pressure on students and sought responses from the Centre, CBSE and NCERT.
Rules To Regulate Airfare Framed, Will Be Placed Before Parliament: Centre Tells Supreme Court
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Supreme Court on 13th July 2026 directed the Centre to place before it, in a sealed cover within two weeks, the rules framed under the Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam, 2024, irrespective of whether they have been laid before Parliament. A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta was hearing a petition by social activist S. Laxminarayanan seeking binding guidelines to curb unpredictable fluctuations in airfares and ancillary charges by private airlines, and an independent regulator ensuring transparency and passenger protection. The Centre said the draft rules were ready and awaiting translation. Senior Advocate Ravindra Srivastava argued that the old rules continue to operate meanwhile and are simply not being enforced, pointing to Rule 135(4), which already empowers authorities to act against predatory pricing. The Court had earlier called festive-season fare spikes a serious concern and urged rationalisation. The next hearing is on 3rd August 2026.
Tamil Nadu Moves Supreme Court Against Madras High Court's Interim Protection To Former DMK Minister EV Velu
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The State of Tamil Nadu, through its Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC), has approached the Supreme Court challenging the Madras High Court's interim order restraining the agency from taking coercive action against former DMK Minister E.V. Velu in a corruption case. The State contended that the High Court's blanket "no coercive steps" order lacked clarity and could impede the ongoing investigation. The Chief Justice of India observed that the State could seek clarification from the High Court but agreed to consider the matter for urgent listing before the Supreme Court.
Karnataka Government Moves Supreme Court Challenging HD Revanna's Discharge In Sexual Harassment Case
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Supreme Court issued notice on the Karnataka Government's appeal challenging the discharge of JD(S) MLA H.D. Revanna in a sexual harassment case filed by a former domestic worker. Expressing concern over the lower courts' approach, the Court questioned how the High Court could alter the charges after cognisance and discharge Revanna from the offence under Section 354 IPC. The appeal challenges the High Court's decision and the subsequent trial court order discharging Revanna on the ground of limitation.
Police Machinery Has Collapsed: J&K Court Initiates Suo Motu Case Against Srinagar SSP For Defying Court Orders
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: A Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) in Srinagar initiated suo motu proceedings against the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Srinagar, for repeatedly failing to execute court-issued warrants and comply with judicial directions. The Court observed that the continued non-compliance by senior police officials reflected a breakdown of the police machinery and undermined the administration of justice. Issuing a pre-cognizance notice to the SSP under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), the Court sought an explanation for the repeated defiance of its orders and directed the Additional Director General of Police/Inspector General of Police, Kashmir, to submit a report. The matter has been listed for further hearing.
Which Advocate Discloses True Income? Supreme Court Justice BV Nagarathna Quips
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Supreme Court, while hearing a challenge against the revoked appointment of a lawyer to the post of Civil Judge, questioned the validity of scrutinising a candidate's professional earnings during post-selection verification. The case arose after the Madras High Court upheld the cancellation of the advocate's appointment on grounds relating to his criminal antecedents and financial disclosures. A bench of Justices B.V. Nagarathna and R. Mahadevan observed that while non-disclosure of criminal antecedents could legitimately affect a candidate's suitability, an advocate's professional income was not a standard measure of fitness for judicial office. Justice Nagarathna also remarked that it was "unrealistic" to presume that advocates disclose their “true income” in tax filings and questioned the relevance of relying on financial disclosures after a candidate had already been selected.
Supreme Court Approves Guidelines On Judicial Sensitivity In Sexual Offence Cases; Directs All Courts To Follow
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Supreme Court approved a comprehensive set of judicial sensitivity guidelines prepared by an expert committee of the National Judicial Academy (NJA) for handling cases involving sexual offences. Directing all courts across the country to follow the guidelines, the Court said they are intended to ensure survivor-centric, gender-sensitive, and trauma-informed judicial proceedings, while promoting dignity, fairness, and consistency in the adjudication of sexual offence cases. The guidelines cover judicial conduct, courtroom language, questioning of survivors, and other aspects of trial management.
Calcutta High Court Adjourns Hearing On TMC MP Mahua Moitra's Plea Against Alleged Egg Pelting, Mob Attack
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Calcutta High Court adjourned the hearing of TMC MP Mahua Moitra's petition seeking directions for police protection and action against those allegedly involved in the egg-pelting and mob attack on her during a political meeting in Krishnanagar. The petition alleges that the attack was politically motivated and occurred despite police presence, while seeking identification and prosecution of the persons responsible and measures to prevent similar incidents against public representatives.
Illegal Mining Cannot Be Labelled As Threat To Public Order To Justify Preventive Detention: J&K&L High Court
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Jammu & Kashmir High Court held that illegal mining, however brazen, cannot by itself be treated as a threat to public order warranting preventive detention under the Public Safety Act. Observing that such allegations are adequately addressed through the ordinary criminal justice system, the Court quashed the preventive detention order against the detenue, reiterating that preventive detention cannot be used as a substitute for regular criminal prosecution merely because criminal cases are pending.
Aadhaar Should Not Be Mandatory For Registering On Digi Yatra: Kerala High Court Remarks
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: During the hearing of a PIL challenging the Digi Yatra registration process, the Kerala High Court orally observed that Aadhaar should not be made mandatory for accessing the facial recognition-based airport service and questioned why passengers could not be allowed to register using other Government-issued identity documents. The Court's remarks came while examining concerns over passenger privacy, data protection, and the collection of biometric information, and the matter remains pending for further consideration.
Staines Murder Case: Supreme Court Gives Odisha Govt. One Month To Consider Dara Singh's Remission Plea
Source: The Hindu
Development: The Supreme Court directed the Odisha Government to decide within one month the remission plea of Dara Singh, who is serving a life sentence for the 1999 murder of Australian missionary Graham Staines and his two minor sons. Taking note of the delay in the decision-making process, the Court asked the State Sentence Review Board to expedite its consideration of the plea and listed the matter for further hearing after the State places its decision on record.
Supreme Court Seeks Answers On CBSE OSM System, Flags Students' Frustration
Source: India Today
Development: The Supreme Court on 15th July expressed concern over growing student complaints about CBSE's on-screen marking (OSM) system, observing that the issue reflects the "frustration" of young students and that there appear to be systemic "creeping problems" in digital evaluation. CBSE’s OSM system which involved scanning physical answer sheets and evaluating them digitally, was meant to replace the old process of physically transporting answer books to evaluation centres, promising faster results, fewer totalling errors, and standardised marking. A bench of CJI Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana, hearing a PIL by Rakesh Binjola, sought the Solicitor General’s assistance and a status report, with Justice Bagchi clarifying the proceedings were not adversarial. A one-member commission was already reviewing the OSM mechanism. The PIL seeks comprehensive regulations for OSM, a reform committee, and relaxation of minimum marks criteria. The next hearing is next week.
Kerala Wakf Board Moves Supreme Court Challenging HC Order Restraining It From Taking Major Decisions
Source: Bar and Bench, Live Law
Development: The Kerala High Court restrained the Kerala State Waqf Board from taking any major decisions, incurring capital expenditure, or adopting policy decisions until it adjudicates petitions challenging the composition of the Board. A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Soumen Sen and Justice Syam Kumar V.M. observed that the Board’s present composition prima facie appeared to be inconsistent with Section 14 of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, which requires the inclusion of at least two non-Muslim members in every State Waqf Board. The Court directed that the Board shall function under the supervision of the Joint Secretary of the State Government handling Waqf matters and shall not undertake major decisions without prior approval of the Court. Following the order, the Kerala State Waqf Board approached the Supreme Court, challenging the restrictions imposed by the High Court and contending that the absence of certain members due to pending appointments could not invalidate the Board’s functioning. The Board argued that the High Court’s directions amounted to an effective supersession of the statutory body and sought interim relief against the order.
PIL To Ban Coaching Teachers, Former Aspirants As Scribes In Civil Service Exams: Delhi HC Seeks UPSC Response
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Delhi High Court on 15th July sought responses from the UPSC, the DoPT and the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities on a plea to bar coaching centre faculty and former civil services aspirants from acting as scribes for disability quota candidates. A bench of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia issued notice on the PIL by the Deepstambh Foundation, which coaches UPSC aspirants with disabilities. Under the RPwD Act, 2016, such candidates may bring a scribe whose qualifications are one step below theirs, but the plea alleges this is being misused, with scribe services supplied by teachers at Delhi coaching institutes and past exam-takers, defeating the purpose of a competitive exam. It seeks a bar on such scribes and an undertaking of non-affiliation with coaching centres. The next hearing is on 16th September.
PIL Before Delhi High Court Alleges Continued Police Surveillance Of Peaceful Protesters At Jantar Mantar
Source: Live Law
Development: A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed before the Delhi High Court alleging that the Delhi Police has subjected peaceful protesters at Jantar Mantar to continuous surveillance during the ongoing Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest. The petition contends that round-the-clock photography, videography, and monitoring of protesters violate their fundamental rights to privacy, dignity, free speech, and peaceful assembly, and seeks directions to restrain indiscriminate surveillance of lawful demonstrations.
Karnataka High Court Directs State To Inform Contractors Of Petitions On Tunnel Road Project
Source: Times of India
Development: The Karnataka High Court directed the State Government to inform all prospective contractors and third parties that the proposed Bengaluru Twin Tunnel Road project is under judicial scrutiny, holding that any contract awarded in the meantime would remain subject to the outcome of the pending PILs, with no third-party rights created until then. A division bench of Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice K.S. Hemalekha was hearing two PILs challenging the ₹19,000-crore Hebbal–Silk Board tunnel project, including a challenge to a 26th November, 2024 communication of the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority holding that prior environmental clearance was not required. The petitioners argued the State bypassed a mandatory environmental impact assessment, calling it a real estate project rather than a road project, and clarified their challenge was to the procedure, not the project itself.
Excise Policy: Delhi High Court Grants Final Opportunity To Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia To Respond To CBI's Plea Against Discharge
Source: Live Law
Development: The Delhi High Court granted a final opportunity of two weeks to AAP leaders Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and Durgesh Pathak to file replies to the CBI's plea challenging their discharge in the Delhi excise policy corruption case. Justice Manoj Jain noted that despite several earlier opportunities, no responses had been filed, and listed the matter for 17th and 18th August for the CBI to begin its submissions, stressing that the schedule must be adhered to strictly to avoid further delay. Interim orders will continue, and the ED's plea to expunge adverse trial court remarks will be heard alongside. The trial court had discharged all 23 accused on February 27th while criticising the CBI's investigation. The case was transferred to Justice Jain after Kejriwal and others boycotted hearings before Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma, who initiated contempt proceedings against them.
Supreme Court Asks Union To Consider Rail Fare Concessions, Emergency Quota For Acid Attack Survivors
Source: Live Law
Development: The Supreme Court asked the Central Government to consider including acid-attack survivors among the Persons with Disability categories granted railway fare concessions and emergency quotas for treatment and periodic check-ups. A bench of CJI Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana, hearing a PIL by Atijeevan Society. Justice Bagchi noted that specialised treatment is often available only in city hospitals. The petitioner argued that since Section 41(2) of the RPwD Act, such concessions are a statutory obligation rather than mere benevolence, and that survivors, mostly women, require long-term treatment and travel.
Milan Malakar Seeks High Court Stay On Bengal’s ‘Anti-Goonda’ Law, Calls It Oppressive.
Source: The Indian Express
Development: A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed before the Calcutta High Court challenging the constitutional validity of the West Bengal Public Safety and Control of Anti-Social Activities Act, 2026 (commonly referred to as the "anti-goonda" law). The petitioner contends that the legislation confers sweeping preventive detention powers through vague and overbroad provisions, making it susceptible to misuse against political opponents and dissenters, and seeks an interim stay on its operation. The High Court, however, declined to grant an urgent hearing and directed that the matter be listed in the ordinary course.
Supreme Court Admits Somnath Bharti's Appeal Challenging Election Of Satish Upadhyay In 2025 Delhi Assembly Polls
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Supreme Court granted leave to appeal in AAP leader Somnath Bharti's challenge to the election of BJP MLA Satish Upadhyay from the Malviya Nagar constituency in the 2025 Delhi Assembly polls. Bharti's election petition, alleging corrupt practices, had been dismissed by the Delhi High Court for non-joinder of the Congress candidate as a necessary party. The Supreme Court admitted the appeal and agreed to examine the correctness of the High Court's decision.
Calcutta High Court Grants Interim Protection To Former West Bengal Minister Manas Bunia
Source: Times of India
Development: The Calcutta High Court granted conditional protection from coercive action to former West Bengal minister Manas Bhunia, who had approached the Court fearing arrest in a cash-for-jobs corruption case. Justice Saugata Bhattacharyya granted him interim protection from arrest, subject to certain conditions, including a restriction on leaving the jurisdiction of Sabang police station in West Midnapore, surrendering his passport before the local police authorities, and extending full cooperation with the ongoing investigation. The case stems from a complaint filed on 10th June by a resident of Bishnupur Gram Panchayat in the Sabang Assembly area, alleging that money was taken in exchange for a job for his wife with a private company before the Assembly elections. Bhunia, a former irrigation minister, had earlier appeared at the Sabang police station on 9th July 2026 following a summons, after the High Court directed him to cooperate with the probe.
Surat Rape Case: Gujarat High Court Seeks Report From Jail Authority On Medical Condition Of Narayan Sai Seeking Temporary Bail
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Gujarat High Court granted temporary bail to Narayan Sai, who is serving a life sentence in a rape case, on medical grounds after taking note of his health condition and the medical treatment required. The Court clarified that the relief was purely temporary and humanitarian in nature, directing him to surrender before the jail authorities upon the expiry of the bail period.
Supreme Court Takes Suo Motu Case On Access To Life-Saving Drugs, Flags Kerala HC's Delay In Deciding Similar Plea
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Supreme Court took suo motu cognisance of the issue of access to life-saving medicines, after noting the prolonged pendency of a Kerala High Court case concerning the affordability of patented cancer drugs. Observing that the matter had been listed 57 times without a final decision and that the original petitioner had died during the pendency of the proceedings, the Court issued notice to the Central Government and requested the Chief Justice of the Kerala High Court to ensure the expeditious disposal of the pending case, while treating affordable access to essential medicines as an issue implicating Article 21 rights.
Abhishek Banerjee's Protection From Arrest In Signature Forgery Case Extended Again
Source: India Today
Development: The Calcutta High Court extended TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee's interim protection from coercive action, including arrest, for another month in the alleged MLA signature forgery case, while directing him to continue cooperating with the CID investigation. The case pertains to allegations that signatures of several TMC MLAs were forged or improperly obtained on a resolution submitted to the West Bengal Assembly Speaker for appointing the Leader of the Opposition and other key opposition functionaries after the Assembly elections. The controversy was triggered by complaints from expelled TMC MLAs questioning the authenticity of the signatures and alleging that the requisite legislators' meeting had not taken place. The CID probe into allegations of forgery, cheating, and criminal conspiracy will continue, with the matter scheduled for further hearing next week.
TN Withdraws SC Appeal, Clears Way For CBI Probe Into BSP Leader Armstrong's Murder
Source: The New Indian Express
Development: The Tamil Nadu Government on 15th July 2026 informed the Supreme Court that it would allow the CBI to investigate the murder of BSP Tamil Nadu president K. Armstrong, and sought to withdraw its appeal challenging the transfer of the case to the agency. The Supreme Court permitted the withdrawal, clearing the way for the CBI to take over. Armstrong, a prominent Dalit leader, was hacked to death near his Perambur residence in Chennai on 5th July 2024. After the state police filed a chargesheet naming 30 accused and attributing the killing to a gang rivalry, Armstrong's family approached the Madras High Court alleging the probe had ignored the political angle. On 24th September 2025, the High Court quashed the chargesheet and transferred the case to the CBI, which the State had challenged in the Supreme Court. Its decision to now withdraw that appeal lets the CBI probe proceed.
Shivaji Statue Row : HC Asks For Sites To Relocate
Source: Times of India
Development: The Bombay High Court at Goa on 15th July 2026 adjourned to 21st July the hearing on a plea related to the removal of a Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue erected on Mormugao Port Authority (MPA) land, and orally asked Mormugao MLA Sankalp Amonkar and four residents to suggest alternative sites for shifting the statue. The four residents, who were denied relief by the Supreme Court when they challenged the High Court's order, told the court that the spot where the statue was installed had been used as a dump yard for over 30 years, and that having helped clean the area, they were seeking a modification of the direction to remove the statue.
Calcutta High Court halts demolition at TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee's office in Amtala
Source: Deccan Herald
Development: The Calcutta High Court on 19thJuly, in an urgent sitting, halted the demolition of TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee's constituency office at Amtala, South 24 Parganas, directing that status quo be maintained on the demolition of the building on Diamond Harbour Road till the end of July, the court said the matter will be heard again before a regular bench. Justice Raja Basu Chowdhury passed the order on a plea by Leaps and Bounds, the company linked to the property, after authorities began demolishing the structure on 18th July, alleging it was unauthorised construction; the company said it held valid land records and permissions. Banerjee called the demolition politically motivated and accused police of working with "BJP goons" to remove documents and equipment.
Calcutta High Court Reserves Order On TMC's Plea For Interim Relief Against ED's Freeze On Bank Accounts
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Calcutta High Court reserved its order on the Trinamool Congress's plea challenging the Enforcement Directorate's decision to freeze the party's bank accounts under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002. After hearing arguments from both sides on the legality of the freeze and the party's request for interim relief, the Court deferred its decision. Consequently, the ED's order freezing the bank accounts will continue to operate until the High Court pronounces its verdict on the interim application.
Supreme Court Issues Notice On Plea Seeking Elections In Maharashtra Local Bodies Treating Reservation Above 50% As Open Seats
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Supreme Court has issued notice to the Maharashtra Government and the State Election Commission on a plea seeking immediate elections to Zilla Parishads and Panchayat Samitis, delayed for over 506 days after their terms ended on 16th January 2025. The petition, filed by former Dhule Zilla Parishad member Sangram Govindrao Patil, argues that elections are stalled due to reservations exceeding the 50% ceiling laid down in K. Krishna Murthy (Dr.) & Ors. v. Union of India & Anr. (2010) and Vikas Kishanrao Gawali v. State of Maharashtra & Ors. (2021). He has sought that excess reserved seats be treated as open-category seats to enable timely elections, relying on the Supreme Court's earlier rulings directing Maharashtra to conduct local body elections.
Plea In Supreme Court Seeks Separate Legal Identity, Protection For Intersex Persons
Source: Live Law
Development: The Supreme Court issued notice to the Central Government on a PIL seeking separate legal recognition and constitutional safeguards for intersex persons. The petition seeks directions to frame statutory guidelines, constitute a National Medical Protocol Committee for Intersex Care, and prohibit medically unnecessary or irreversible surgeries and hormonal interventions on intersex infants and children until they can provide informed consent. It argues that intersex persons face non-consensual medical procedures, stigma, exclusion, and lack of legal recognition, and contends that Articles 14, 15, and 21 require distinct legal protection to ensure equality, dignity, and access to welfare measures.
Air India AI171 Crash | AAIB Opposes Plea For Supreme Court-Monitored Investigation
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has informed the Supreme Court that a court-monitored probe into the 12th June, 2025, Air India AI171 Ahmedabad crash which claimed 260 lives is unnecessary, asserting its independent inquiry complies fully with international aviation treaties. Opposing three writ petitions, including one by Pushkar Raj Sabharwal, father of the flight's late pilot Captain Sumeet Sabharwal, the AAIB argued that statutory investigations are strictly technical, safety-oriented processes to prevent recurrence, meaning petitioners' demands for compensation, regulatory reforms, and criminal liability fall entirely outside its legal scope. The Bureau stated it has already completed 49 of 66 mandatory ICAO steps with international collaboration from US, UK, and Canadian safety boards, expecting to conclude the remaining analysis within six weeks and publish a draft final report around October 2026.
Lok Sabha MP Moves Supreme Court Seeking Municipalities In Urban Places Falling In Scheduled Tribe Areas
Source: Live Law
Development: A writ petition by Rajasthan MP Rajkumar Roat has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking effective implementation of Article 243ZC and the Fifth Schedule for democratic urban local self-governance in Scheduled Areas. The plea says that although the 74th Constitutional Amendment introduced Part IX-A for urban local bodies, no law has been enacted to extend it to Scheduled Areas, unlike the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 for rural governance. It argues that rapid urbanisation has left many Scheduled Area settlements outside the municipal framework, affecting local self-governance. The petition seeks interim guidelines and an expert committee to address the legislative gap in urban governance for Scheduled Areas.
Lakhimpur Kheri Case | UP Police Tells Supreme Court No Evidence Against Ashish Mishra, Ajay Mishra In Witness Intimidation FIR
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Uttar Pradesh Police on 17th July informed the Supreme Court that its investigation found no evidence linking Ashish Mishra or his father, former Union Minister Ajay Mishra, to the alleged intimidation of a witness in the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence case. A bench led by CJI Surya Kant recorded the State’s status report, which revealed that while a chargesheet has been filed against one Amandeep Singh, the probe cleared the Mishras of any involvement in the offense. The intimidation FIR had been registered last October following sharp criticism from the apex court over initial police inaction regarding threats made to a witness. The Court has granted the complainant two weeks to respond.
Troubled By View That Public Servant’s Murder Isn’t ‘Rarest Of Rare’ : Supreme Court On Anand Mohan’s Remission, Reserves Judgment
Source: Live Law
Development: The Supreme Court on 16th July reserved its judgment on a plea challenging the Bihar Government’s premature release of former MP Anand Mohan, who was serving a life sentence for the 1994 mob lynching of Gopalganj District Magistrate G Krishnaiah. A bench comprising Justices Dipankar Datta and Sheel Nagu strongly criticized a past Patna High Court observation that murdering a public servant on duty is not a "rarest of rare" crime, warning that such logic actively encourages criminals. The apex court slammed the systemic concealment of pending criminal cases against Mohan by prison authorities and the Remission Board, observing that "every dice has been loaded in his favour" through misrepresented, "rosy" conduct reports. The petition, filed by the slain DM's widow Uma Krishnaiah, challenges the controversial April 2023 amendment to the Bihar Prison Manual that removed the bar on premature release for convicts who kill public servants, allowing Mohan to walk free after 14 years.
‘Everyone Does Naarebaazi In Democracy': Supreme Court Not Inclined To Revive Case Against Bhagwant Mann Over Protest March
Source: Live Law
Development: The Supreme Court orally indicated that it is not inclined to entertain the Chandigarh administration's challenge to the Punjab and Haryana High Court's decision quashing the 2020 rioting case against Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and other AAP leaders over a protest against electricity tariff hikes. Observing that "everyone does naarebaazi in a democracy," the bench nevertheless adjourned the matter to hear it on merits after the administration sought time to address technical objections.
Supreme Court's 'Delhi Metro' Judgment Caused Extensive Damage To Arbitration In India: Justice Ujjal Bhuyan
Source: Live Law
Development: The Supreme Court Judge Justice Ujjal Bhuyan stated that the apex court's 2024 Delhi Metro curative judgment has caused "the most extensive damage to arbitration in India" and severely undermined the nation's ambitions to become a global dispute resolution hub. Speaking at a lecture organized by The Law Forum, Justice Bhuyan expressed grave concern over rising judicial interference, highlighting how the ruling which weaponized extraordinary curative jurisdiction to overturn a ₹ 2,800 crore arbitral award seven years after it was rendered triggered a series of regressive policy shifts by the Finance Ministry and various public sector undertakings to exclude arbitration clauses from high-value Government contracts.
SCAORA Submits Recommendations On Supreme Court's Draft AI Regulations, Raises Concerns
Source: Live Law
Development: The Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA) has submitted recommendations on the Draft AI Regulations for Courts, 2026, urging a cautious, phased rollout of AI in the judiciary. It recommended banning opaque black-box AI systems in high-risk judicial functions, mandating human oversight of all AI-generated outputs, and restricting AI use even in administrative tasks that could affect litigants' rights. The report also raised concerns over AI hallucinations, automation bias, judicial data being processed on foreign controlled infrastructure, and the unclear legal basis of the draft regulations. It further called for greater Bar representation in AI governance, stronger data sovereignty safeguards, audits of existing AI tools used by the Supreme Court, and a framework that prioritises judicial independence and litigants' rights over rapid technological adoption.
No Right To Pollute Rivers In The Name Of Religion: Madras High Court On Thamirabarani Rituals
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Madras High Court observed that no one has the right to pollute a water body in the name of religion, holding that the right to religious freedom under Article 25 is subject to public health and environmental protection. Hearing a case concerning the Thamirabarani river, the Court expressed concern over the large-scale dumping of clothes and ritual items during funeral rites, noting that around one tonne of garments is discarded daily and recent clean-up drives recovered nearly 90 tonnes of clothes and other waste. Calling the pollution alarming and a threat to the river's ecosystem and public health, the Court directed the district administration to propose solutions and invited religious bodies and activists to present their views before passing final directions.
Supreme Court Questions POCSO Act Criminalising Teen Sex; Says 15-18 Is Age Of Experimentation
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Supreme Court questioned the use of the POCSO Act in cases involving consensual relationships between teenagers, observing that parents often invoke the law to protect their honour when adolescents elope. A Bench of Justices B.V. Nagarathna and R. Mahadevan, hearing a suo motu case on adolescents’ right to privacy, remarked that ages 15–18 are a vulnerable period of experimentation and asked whether such cases should automatically attract POCSO. The Court stressed the need for practical measures, while the Union proposed graded POCSO awareness and adolescent education in schools. It also noted that monitoring mechanisms already exist through High Courts and State Governments, declining suggestions for Union-level monitoring.
BCI Lays Down Social Media Norms For Advocates, Law Students
Source: The Hindu
Development: The Bar Council of India (BCI) issued a comprehensive circular on July 17thth prescribing strict standards for the use of social media by advocates, law students, and legal interns. The directive prohibits the creation or circulation of reels, videos, or synthetic content that sensationalizes court proceedings, judicial buildings, or professional work. Specifically, it bars the clipping and editing of live-streamed proceedings with mocking or distorting commentary, alongside banning AI-generated deepfakes, undisclosed AI legal content, and misleading legal advice by self-styled digital influencers. The BCI clarified that while accurate short-form legal education remains permitted, content crossing the line into commercial self-promotion, solicitation, or sensationalism will face strict disciplinary action to preserve the dignity of the judiciary.
Madras High Court Has Sought The Tamil Nadu Government's Response On Karur ‘Temple Land’ Registration Matter
Source: The Hindu
Development: The Madras High Court has sought the Tamil Nadu Government's response to a PIL challenging the decision to lift the registration ban on 3,085 acres of land in Karur that was previously claimed as temple land. The dispute arose after the district administration recommended removing the restriction, stating that it had been erroneously imposed on ryotwari patta lands, while the HR&CE Department maintains that ownership of the lands continues to vest with the concerned temples. The controversy intensified after allegations that the move favoured encroachers and triggered political criticism.
CB-CID Officials Raid Multiple Locations Over Fraudulent Registration Of Palani Temple Lands
Source: ThePrint
Development: The Tamil Nadu CB-CID conducted searches at multiple locations in Dindigul district as part of its investigation into the alleged fraudulent registration of land belonging to the Sri Dhandayudhapani Swamy Temple, Palani. The probe relates to allegations that temple land worth nearly ₹100 crore was registered for just ₹2 crore through fraudulent transactions. The searches targeted a sub-registrar, a land broker, and other individuals connected with the registrations after the State Government transferred the case to the CB-CID following widespread political controversy.
Right To Be Forgotten: Indian Kanoon Moves Delhi High Court Against Ruling To Disable Name-Based Search Of Court Records
Source: Live Law
Development: Indian Kanoon has approached the Delhi High Court challenging a single-judge ruling recognising the constitutional “right to be forgotten” and directing search engines and legal databases to de-index or mask personal information from online judicial records. The platform argues that the judgment undermines open justice and public access to court records, with vague standards that could lead to arbitrary censorship. It also contends that name-based searches are essential for legal research and that restricting them affects lawyers, litigants, researchers and students, besides infringing its right to carry on business under Article 19(1)(g). The appeal was heard by a Division Bench led by Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia and is listed for 21st July.
'Two Years Have Lapsed': Karnataka High Court Pushes State To Expedite Transgender Reservation Policy In Educational Institutions
Source: Live Law
Development: The Karnataka High Court urged the State Government to expedite a comprehensive policy for transgender reservation in educational institutions, noting that the proposal has been pending for nearly two years. The observation came while hearing NLSIU's appeal against a direction to provide 0.5% reservation for transgender students. The Court noted that Karnataka's 2017 policy provides 1% horizontal reservation in public employment but not education, and referred to the 2019 Transgender Persons Act, which requires inclusion and protection against discrimination in education. While the State argued that the law does not expressly mandate educational reservation, the Court stressed the need for a clear policy. The case arose from a transgender student's denial of NLSIU admission, with the Court also reserving seats at two Karnataka law colleges for the student pending further proceedings.
Details of Important Cases
A. Supreme Court
No Relief For Wangchuk. Delhi High Court Backs Governments Move To Shift Sonam To Hospital, Says No Force Used
Source: Live Law, Times of India
Verdict: The Delhi High Court, during a special Sunday on 19th July hearing on a petition filed by Sonam Wangchuk’s wife, Dr. Gitanjali Angmo, refused to grant interim relief or permit his transfer to a private hospital, upholding the Centre’s decision to shift him from the Jantar Mantar protest site to Safdarjung Hospital. Justice Mini Pushkarna held that the Government’s action was not arbitrary, observing that Wangchuk had not voluntarily sought hospitalisation despite his deteriorating health following an 18-day hunger strike and that the authorities were duty-bound to safeguard his well-being. The Court directed the Centre to file its reply within three days and clarified that while Wangchuk may cooperate with doctors if he so chooses, the treating medical team would retain the authority to take appropriate decisions in accordance with medical protocols.
NEET UG 2026 | Supreme Court Dismisses Plea Challenging NEET Retest As Infructuous
Source: LiveLaw
Verdict: The Supreme Court dismissed as infructuous a writ petition challenging the National Testing Agency's (NTA) decision to cancel and re-conduct the NEET-UG 2026 examination following the paper leak controversy, observing that the re-examination had already been conducted. A Bench of Justices P.S. Narasimha and Alok Aradhe also permitted the petitioner to intervene in the pending batch of petitions seeking institutional reforms within the NTA, while declining to examine the challenge to the completed re-test.
Supreme Court Paves Way For Shifting Of Uttarakhand High Court To Haldwani
Source: LiveLaw
Development: The Supreme Court on 15th July set aside the Uttarakhand High Court’s 2024 order that judicially rejected the State Government’s proposal to relocate the High Court from Nainital to a 26-hectare site in Golapar, Haldwani. A bench led by CJI Surya Kant ruled that infrastructural and relocation issues must be determined strictly on the administrative side in consultation with the State, rather than through judicial proceedings. The apex court ordered that possession of the Haldwani land be handed over to the High Court on an "as is, where is" basis within six weeks emphasizing that the area's greenery and trees must not be disturbed and directed the State to issue a land transfer notification within eight weeks.
Supreme Court Refuses To Hear Contempt Pleas Alleging Violation Of 'Bulldozer' Judgment, Sends Matters To High Courts
Source: Live Law
Development: The Supreme Court on 16thJuly refused to entertain contempt petitions alleging that demolitions were carried out in violation of its November 2024 judgment laying down safeguards against bulldozer justice, and transferred them to the concerned High Courts. A bench of CJI Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana held that the cases raised multiple questions of fact, with petitioners alleging breach of natural justice and authorities claiming due process was followed, which could not be decided in contempt jurisdiction. The CJI noted the judgment itself carved out exceptions for structures encroaching on public spaces, while Justice Bagchi said it was meant to stop punitive demolitions against the accused, not to shield illegal constructions. The Court expressed no opinion on merits and continued its interim protection during the High Court proceedings.
SC Sets Aside Election Of BJP MLC Pranesh, Declares Congress’s Gayathri Winner In Chikkamagaluru
Source: The New Indian Express
Verdict: The Supreme Court on 17th July 2026, dismissed a special leave petition by Karnataka Legislative Council Deputy Chairman and BJP MLC M.K. Pranesh, upholding the Karnataka High Court's order setting aside his 2021 election from the Chikkamagaluru Local Authorities' Constituency. A bench of CJI Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pancholi found no merit in his challenge to the High Court's January 2025 judgment. The High Court held that nominated members of local bodies cannot vote in Legislative Council elections, and the Supreme Court's recount, with those votes kept aside, now stands.
Though Removed From Electoral Roll, You're Entitled To Certain Benefits' : Supreme Court Asks SIR-Excluded Person To Move HC for Ration
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Supreme Court observed that persons excluded from the electoral rolls following the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in West Bengal remain entitled to welfare benefits, including subsidised food grains, and that deletion from the voter list does not automatically deprive them of such entitlements. While disposing of the petition, the Court granted liberty to the petitioner to approach the Calcutta High Court for relief against the proposed cancellation of his ration card and directed the appellate authority to decide his challenge to the electoral roll exclusion expeditiously.
Supreme Court Rejects West Bengal Madrasa Teachers’ Plea For Regularisation, Benefits
Source: Indian Express
Verdict: On 13th July, 2026, a Supreme Court bench of Justices Dipankar Datta and A.G. Masih dismissed a batch of petitions by West Bengal madrasa staff seeking regularisation of their appointments and salaries under the state's grant-in-aid scheme. The dispute goes back to the West Bengal Madrasah Service Commission Act, 2008, which gave a statutory commission the power to recommend teacher appointments, stripping local madrasa committees of that role. The Calcutta High Court struck it down in 2014–15 as violating Article 30, but the Supreme Court upheld the Act in January 2020. A court-appointed committee later found appointments made during the years of legal limbo invalid, and the staff's challenge to that finding is what the Court has now rejected.
Issue Of Public Importance: Supreme Court Asks Authorities To Consider Suggestions On Pornography Ban For Minors.
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Supreme Court on Monday disposed of a PIL by B.L. Jain sought a national policy and action plan to curb the watching of pornography, especially by minors, and a ban on viewing such content in public places. A bench led by CJI Surya Kant held the issue was of "paramount public importance" but did not involve a question of law for the Court, being essentially a policy matter tied to technological advancement and falling within the domain of experts and authorities such as MeitY and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Without expressing any view on merits, it granted the petitioner liberty to forward the petition as a representation to the competent authority, and impressed upon the authorities to give due consideration to his suggestions. The plea, filed under Article 32 through advocate Varun Thakur, invoked Section 69A of the IT Act and argued that while the Act penalises publishing and transmitting obscene material, it does not penalise viewing, leaving a legislative vacuum.
Following Bihar SIR Judgment, Supreme Court Closes Tamil Nadu SIR Case
Source: Live Law
Development: The Supreme Court on Thursday disposed of a batch of petitions challenging the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Tamil Nadu, following its earlier judgment in the Bihar SIR cases which upheld the ECI's power to conduct such revisions. A bench of CJI Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana closed the matter but granted the petitioners liberty to pursue any other remedy available under the law. The SIR had been challenged by the TVK, DMK leaders, the CPI(M), MP Thol. Thirumavalavan and others, who argued that a summary revision had already been completed in January 2025, and that the verification requirements introduced during the fresh SIR, according to the petitioners, went beyond the scope of electoral roll revision and involved issues relating to citizenship determination, which they contended fall within the framework of the Citizenship Act, 1955. The AIADMK had supported the exercise.
Supreme Court Upholds Lalu Prasad Yadav's Sentence Suspension In Deoghar Fodder Scam, Urges HC To Decide Appeal In 6 Months
Source: LiveLaw
Verdict: The Supreme Court declined to interfere with the Jharkhand High Court's order suspending the sentence of RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav in the Deoghar treasury fodder scam case, while requesting the High Court to decide his pending criminal appeal within six months. A bench of Justices M.M. Sundresh and P.B. Varale was hearing a Special Leave Petition filed by the State of Jharkhand against the suspension. The effect is that Lalu's conviction stands but the sentence remains suspended pending his appeal, and the High Court has been asked to dispose of that appeal expeditiously rather than let it linger.
AgustaWestland Chopper Scam | UK-Based Businessman Withdraws Plea In Supreme Court Against ED Warrants
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Supreme Court allowed former MGF Group chairman Shravan Gupta to withdraw his plea against non-bailable warrants issued by the ED in the AgustaWestland VVIP chopper money laundering case, leaving the Delhi High Court’s order unchanged. Gupta, accused of laundering ₹24 crore and abroad since 2019, claimed he cooperated through video conferencing, but the ED said he ignored nine summonses and was deliberately evading the probe. The High Court held that his physical presence was necessary for custodial interrogation and confrontation with evidence, and upheld the warrants.
Zoos Are Old Now: Supreme Court Allows UP's Proposal For Night Safari In Kukrail Reserve Forest
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Supreme Court allowed the Uttar Pradesh Government to proceed with its proposed night safari in Lucknow's Kukrail Reserve Forest, subject to conditions imposed by the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) and the Environment Ministry. A bench of CJI Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana directed a CEC member to visit the site periodically and report to the Court, with the first report due in three months. The Court remarked that forest safaris should not be discouraged as zoos are now outdated, asking whether the country should remain at a standstill. The petitioner argued the project would disturb the entire reserve forest, but the CJI said the matter was for experts, noting the CEC had recommended approval subject to stringent conditions, which the State accepted. The plea forms part of the ongoing challenge to the Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act, 2023.
Supreme Court Criticises CRPF For Removing Driver Who Developed Disability, Awards Him Rs 1.25 Crore
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Supreme Court criticised the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) for medically invalidating a driver who developed a visual disability during service instead of accommodating him in an alternative post as mandated under the Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full Participation) Act, 1995. Holding that Government employers have a statutory duty to provide reasonable accommodation to employees who acquire disabilities during service, the Court upheld the relief granted by the Himachal Pradesh High Court and awarded the employee ₹1.25 crore as compensation for the wrongful termination and prolonged denial of his statutory rights.
Supreme Court Urges Railways To Prevent Overcrowding In Trains, Suggests Dropping 'Second Class Passenger' Term
Source: LiveLaw
Verdict: The Supreme Court urged the Indian Railways to take effective measures to prevent overcrowding in trains, observing that passengers travelling in non-air-conditioned coaches deserve the same dignity and safety as others. The Court also suggested that the Railways consider replacing the term “second-class passenger”, noting that the expression is inconsistent with constitutional values of equality and dignity. The observations came while hearing a matter concerning overcrowding and passenger safety, with the Court seeking concrete steps to improve travel conditions. The claimant in the present case lost her husband due to an untoward incident, where he fell down from a running train.
Supreme Court Asks Producer To Release 'Mahaprabhu Jagannath' Movie After Puri Rath Yatra
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Supreme Court declined to allow the nationwide release of the animated film Mahaprabhu Jagannath on its scheduled date, directing the producers, Ele Animations Pvt. Ltd, to postpone its release until after the annual Puri Rath Yatra concludes on 27th July. A bench comprising Justices BV Nagarathna and R Mahadevan refused to stay a 15th July Orissa High Court order banning the film, which cited concerns that its release during the festival could hurt religious sentiments and disturb public order. Although the producers argued that crores had been invested and Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) clearance obtained, the apex court maintained the festival window must be protected, permitting the release only after the yatra ends.
B. Madras High Court
Madras High Court Dismisses Plea For CBI Probe Into The Alleged Bid To Bribe TVK MLA
Source: The Hindu
Verdict: The Madras High Court dismissed a PIL seeking transfer of the investigation into the alleged ₹35-crore bribery attempt involving a TVK MLA from the Chennai Police to the CBI, holding that a statutory investigation cannot be transferred solely on the basis of newspaper reports, social media content, or unverified allegations. The Court noted that the Chennai Police had already arrested nine accused, secured their judicial remand, and was conducting the investigation effectively, leaving no basis for judicial intervention. It also refused to direct a CBI probe into other alleged 'horse trading' complaints made by Opposition MLAs, emphasizing that PIL jurisdiction cannot be invoked to seek extraordinary relief based on speculative claims and reaffirming that transfer of investigation is warranted only where the existing probe is demonstrably unfair or inadequate.
Madras High Court Closes Plea Alleging Corruption In Appointment Of Govt Advocates, Says Politicians Impleaded 'Only To Make Headlines
Source: LiveLaw
Verdict: The Madras High Court closed a petition filed by a Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) functionary alleging corruption in the appointment of Government Advocates, after the State informed the Court that the appointment process had been completed in accordance with the prescribed procedure. The Court also observed that several political leaders had been impleaded without any specific allegations, indicating that they were unnecessarily made parties to the proceedings.
Madras High Court Upholds FIR Against Commentator V Ponraj Over Remarks Against TVK Women Supporters
Source: LiveLaw
Verdict: The Madras High Court dismissed V. Ponraj's plea to quash an FIR over his alleged derogatory remarks against women supporters of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) during a YouTube interview. The case arose from a March 27, 2026 YouTube interview in which Ponraj, who previously served as an aide to former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, has been participating in political debates and interviews on television. In a recent interview, he made controversial remarks about members of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), allegedly referring to the party’s women cadres in a derogatory manner implying sex work, which sparked outrage, drawing condemnation from TVK president and Chief Minister Joseph Vijay. Rejecting his contention that the remarks were protected speech, the Court upheld the FIR registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, IT Act, and the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Harassment of Women Act.
Protest Is Hallmark Of Democracy: Madras High Court Quashes Case Against Farmer For Hunger Strike
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Madras High Court quashed criminal cases against an agriculturist who participated in a peaceful hunger strike demanding the withdrawal of criminal cases against Tamil Nadu Farmers Protection Association founder M. Easan, holding that peaceful protests and slogan-shouting are a hallmark of democracy protected under the Constitution. Justice M. Nirmal Kumar found no material to show that the protest caused public inconvenience or obstruction, and ruled that the allegations were vague and insufficient to attract offences under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
C. Allahabad High Court
Allahabad High Court Grants Bail To Former Chhattisgarh Excise Commissioner In UP FIR Linked To Alleged ₹2,161 Crore Liquor Scam
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Allahabad High Court granted bail to former Chhattisgarh Excise Commissioner Niranjan Das in a Uttar Pradesh FIR linked to the alleged ₹2,161 crore Chhattisgarh liquor scam. The Court held that criminal antecedents alone cannot justify denial of bail in the absence of material showing a likelihood of absconding, tampering with evidence, or influencing witnesses. It also noted that Das had already been granted bail by the Supreme Court in the main Chhattisgarh case and that the investigation in the UP FIR had been completed.
Election Tribunal Can't Examine Validity Of Caste Certificate In Election Petition: Allahabad High Court
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Allahabad High Court held that an Election Tribunal cannot examine or declare a caste certificate forged in an election petition, as such disputes must be decided through the statutory scrutiny mechanism of the District, Regional and State Level Committees. Only after the State Level Committee's final decision can the matter be challenged before the High Court under Article 226. The ruling came in a case alleging that an elected MLA had fraudulently obtained a Scheduled Caste certificate to contest an election. Relying on Supreme Court precedents, the Court held that a certificate validly issued by the competent authority cannot be questioned by an Election Tribunal unless it is first cancelled by the authorised scrutiny body, and dismissed the election petition.
D. Punjab & Haryana High Court
P&H High Court Applies 'Descending Scale' Sentencing Model, Commutes Death Sentence For 6-Yr-Old's Rape-Murder But Bars Release Before 50 years.
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Punjab and Haryana High Court commuted the death sentence of a man convicted of the rape and murder of a six-year-old girl to life imprisonment, while directing that he shall not be released before completing 50 years of actual imprisonment. Applying the "descending scale" model of sentencing, which operates on the principle of proportionality, (the younger the victim, the higher the sentence), the Court held that although the case did not warrant capital punishment, the gravity of the offence and the young age of the victim justified an exceptionally long fixed-term sentence to protect society and ensure proportional punishment.
Violent Protest, Sloganeering Against Govt Or Expressing Dissent Not Always Sedition: Punjab & Haryana High Court
Source: LiveLaw
Verdict: The Punjab and Haryana High Court has held that sloganeering against the Government, by itself, is not enough to attract sedition in an elected democracy, observing that such expression is only a means of dissent and cannot be equated with hatred, contempt or disaffection. A Division Bench of Justices Vinod S. Bhardwaj and Sukhvinder Kaur ruled while upholding the acquittal of four Kaithal residents booked over the violence that erupted after Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh's 2017 rape conviction. The Court held that a violent protest may amount to rioting but not sedition, and found the prosecution had failed to prove the accused's presence or conduct a test identification parade. It dismissed the State's appeal.
E. Kerala High Court
Kerala High Court Allows BJP Councillor Detained Under KAAPA To Take Oath Inside Prison
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Kerala High Court permitted BJP councillor Sugathan R, currently under preventive detention, to take his oath of office inside prison on 14th July 2026, with accredited media allowed in to witness it. Justice P.V. Kunhikrishnan held that the electorate's mandate cannot be defeated merely because an elected representative is under preventive detention. The Director General of Prosecution opposed his release, contending that as a detainee under the Kerala Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act, 2007 he could not be freed merely to take the oath, and that Article 22(3) denies preventive detainees the safeguards available to ordinary arrested persons. The case stemmed from a 24th June, 2026 judgment that invalidated the oaths of several Thiruvananthapuram councillors who had pledged allegiance to deities and political martyrs rather than in the form prescribed by the Kerala Municipality Act, 1994. While the other councillors retook their oaths, Sugathan could not, having been detained on 9th June 2026.
Foreign Lawyers Cannot Cross-Examine Witness Before Advocate Commissioners: Kerala High Court
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Kerala High Court held that foreign lawyers cannot examine or cross-examine witnesses before an advocate commissioner appointed by Indian courts, as recording evidence is part of litigation and can be done only by advocates entitled to practise in India. Justice Mohammed Nias CP ruled on an application by US company Sharestates Inc, which sought to record evidence from an Indian witness under a US court's Letter of Request; the Indian defendants wanted their US counsel to take part. Relying on Bar Council of India v. A.K. Balaji and the 2022 BCI Rules, he held foreign counsel may observe but not conduct the examination.
Kerala High Court Strikes Down Kerala Minerals Vesting Law, Says Deprivation Of Private Property Without Compensation Violates Article 300A
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Kerala High Court struck down the Kerala Minerals (Vesting of Rights) Act, 2021 as unconstitutional, holding that the State cannot take privately owned mineral rights without a lawful acquisition procedure or compensation. The Division Bench found that the Act violated Articles 14, 19, 21 and 300A by vesting all mineral rights beneath private land in the State without protecting property rights or providing compensation. It also held that the State lacked legislative competence to regulate major minerals already covered by the central Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, and that the Act did not receive the Presidential assent required for protection under Articles 31A or 31C. The Court declared the Act invalid and ordered the refund of royalty collected under it.
F. Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh High Court
PITNDPS Act | Unexplained Delay In Acting On Police Dossier Makes Preventive Detention A "Mockery": J&K&L High Court
Source: LiveLaw
Verdict: The Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh High Court quashed a preventive detention order under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PIT-NDPS) Act, 1988, holding that an unexplained four-month delay between the receipt of the police dossier and the issuance of the detention order snapped the live link between the alleged activities and the need for preventive detention. Observing that such inordinate delay makes a "mockery" of preventive detention, the Court held that the detention order could not be sustained and directed the detenue's release, if not required in any other case.
G. Rajasthan High Court
Master Plan Has Statutory Force; Authorities Can't Permit Land Conversion Contrary To It: Rajasthan High Court
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Rajasthan High Court held that a Master Plan has statutory force and that authorities cannot permit land conversion or regularisation in a manner contrary to its provisions. Ruling that land earmarked as a Green Belt cannot be converted for residential or commercial use through administrative action, the Court declared such permissions illegal and liable to be quashed, observing that they defeat the very object of planned urban development.
H. Sikkim High Court
Sikkim High Court Upholds Suspension Of Judge Accused Of Letting Court Clerk Record Evidence
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Sikkim High Court upheld the suspension of a judicial officer accused of permitting her Peshkar (court clerk) to record evidence in her absence, holding that suspension is a legitimate administrative measure where there is a reasonable apprehension of interference with an ongoing disciplinary inquiry. While refusing to revoke the suspension, the Court directed the High Court administration to complete the inquiry within three months, observing that the officer may be reinstated if she cooperates with the proceedings and the inquiry is not concluded within that period.
I. Gujarat High Court
Highest Ever Death Penalties Confirmed By A High Court : Read Reasons In 2008 Ahmedabad Blast Verdict
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Gujarat High Court confirmed the death penalty imposed on 38 convicts in the 2008 Ahmedabad serial blasts case marking the highest number of capital sentences ever affirmed by a High Court in a single judgment while upholding life imprisonment for 11 others. A division bench of Justices AY Kogje and Samir Dave ruled that the convicts showed "no remorse" and displayed "scant regard for the rule of law." The court found the 26th July, 2008 synchronized terror attacks, which killed 56 people and injured over 240 across hospitals and crowded markets, were the product of a deep-rooted criminal conspiracy driven by radicalization and coordinated via SIMI and the Indian Mujahideen (IM).
J. Calcutta High Court
Calcutta High Court Allows TMC To Hold 'Shahid Divas' Meeting On 21 July Near Birla Planetarium After State Refuses Victoria House Venue
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Calcutta High Court permitted the Trinamool Congress (TMC) to hold its annual 'Shahid Divas' rally on 21st July near Birla Planetarium, after the State declined permission to use its traditional venue in front of Victoria House. Balancing the party's right to assemble with concerns of traffic and public order, the Court directed the Kolkata Police to allow the meeting subject to conditions, including restricting the gathering to one side of the road, capping attendance at 3,000 participants, and ensuring adequate police deployment for crowd management.
Calcutta HC paves way for Martyrs' Day rally by Mamata-Banerjee-led TMC near Birla Planetarium
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Calcutta High Court directed Kolkata Police to allow the Mamata Banerjee-led Kalighat faction of the TMC to hold its Shahid Diwas rally on 21st July near Birla Planetarium after permission for the original Esplanade venue was denied. Justice Saugata Bhattacharya permitted the rally subject to conditions, including a cap of 3,000 participants, timings from 12 pm to 3:30 pm, and measures to ensure law and order and smooth traffic, while directing police to provide adequate security. The Court clarified that it had not ruled on the validity of the 30th June prohibitory order restricting public meetings in parts of Kolkata, which remains under challenge.
West Bengal withdraws appeal in Supreme Court against removal of 77 communities from OBC list
Source: Bar and Bench
Development: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led West Bengal Government withdrew before the Supreme Court its appeal challenging the Calcutta High Court's 2024 judgment striking down the inclusion of 77 communities, predominantly 75 Muslim communities, in the State's OBC list. A Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant permitted the withdrawal after Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the Court of the State Cabinet's decision, while clarifying that any aggrieved party may still challenge the High Court's ruling. The High Court had held the inclusion illegal and unconstitutional, finding that the State bypassed the mandatory consultation process with the Backward Classes Commission and relied primarily on religion as the basis for classification.
Calcutta High Court protest: Former TMC MLA Kunal Ghosh held guilty of contempt
Source: The Indian Express
Verdict: The Calcutta High Court held TMC leader Kunal Ghosh and several protesters linked to the West Bengal SSC recruitment controversy guilty of criminal contempt for allegedly intimidating a sitting judge, making derogatory remarks and interfering with the administration of justice. The Court said freedom of expression does not permit attacks that undermine judicial independence or public confidence in courts. It rejected Ghosh's apology as insincere, fined him ₹2,000 with three days' simple imprisonment in default, and imposed ₹1,000 fines on the protesters, while noting their frustration over prolonged recruitment litigation. The Court stressed that attacks on judges and lawyers strike at the foundation of the justice system and cannot be justified as protest.
K. Andhra Pradesh High Court
AP High Court Upholds Food Corporation Of India's Direction To Rice Millers To Replace Fortified Stocks Which Failed Mandatory Quality Test
Source: Live Law
Verdict: The Andhra Pradesh High Court upheld directions requiring rice millers to replace fortified rice stocks that failed mandatory quality tests under the Fortified Rice Scheme. The Court held that surprise inspections followed prescribed SOPs and that millers were responsible for randomly testing Fortified Rice Kernels (FRKs) before blending. Rejecting their claim that they merely blended FRKs supplied by others, the Court noted that the stocks failed initial, appeal and review tests, justifying replacement and restrictions on future supplies. It also rejected claims of violation of natural justice, holding that prior notice or the millers' presence during surprise testing was not required, while disputes over pending bills could not be decided in writ proceedings.
M. Other Courts & Tribunals
Delhi Riots: Court Convicts Tahir Hussain, Others In IB Staffer Ankit Sharma Murder Case
Source: Live Law
Verdict: Additional Sessions court Delhi on 13th July 2026 convicted former Aam Aadmi Party councillor Tahir Hussain and four other men in the murder of Intelligence Bureau staffer Ankit Sharma during the 2020 North-East Delhi riots. Additional Sessions Judge Praveen Singh of Karkardooma Courts convicted Hussain under IPC Sections 302 (murder), 365, 147, 148, 149, 153A and 188, while acquitting him of criminal conspiracy (120B) and Section 129; the four others convicted for the murder are Javed, Anas, Nazim and Kasim, and six accused were acquitted. Ankit Sharma had left home on the evening of the riots to buy groceries and never returned; his body was later recovered from a drain near Chand Bagh Pulia.
CCPA fines SpiceJet ₹1 lakh for using dark patterns to obtain consumer consent for loyalty programme
Source: Bar and Bench
Verdict: The Central Consumer Protection Authority has fined SpiceJet ₹1 lakh for using pre-ticked checkboxes to enrol passengers in its SpiceClub loyalty programme and secure consent for promotional messages. Chief Commissioner Nidhi Khare and Commissioner Anupam Mishra held the design impaired consumer autonomy, amounting to an unfair trade practice, unfair contract and misleading advertisement under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, and breached Rule 4(9) of the E-Commerce Rules, 2020, which requires explicit affirmative consent. The practices were classified as three dark patterns: Trick Question, Forced Action and Interface Interference. SpiceJet must retain its corrective measures and file a compliance report within 15 days.
Consumer Court Directs Maruti Suzuki To Replace Non-E20 Compliant Car With E20-Compatible Model
Source: LiveLaw
Verdict: The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, has directed Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. and its authorized dealer, Nexa Magnato, to replace a Grand Vitara Strong Hybrid over its engine's incompatibility with E20 petrol. The vehicle, manufactured in January 2023 but sold to consumer Dr. Premraj Devta in June 2024, repeatedly stalled and suffered severe mechanical breakdowns due to ethanol-blended fuel. While Maruti Suzuki blamed external fuel contamination to avoid warranty liabilities, the Commission ruled that selling a non-E20-compliant car without informing the buyer or providing a lasting fix constituted a deficiency in service and unfair trade practice.
Many of the matters highlighted this week remain at an interim stage, suggesting that several consequential legal questions will continue to evolve in the coming months. At the same time, recent judgments indicate an increasing emphasis on procedural integrity, administrative accountability, and calibrated judicial intervention rather than substituting executive decision-making. As India advances its reform agenda, these developments reinforce the importance of a legal system that protects constitutional values while providing the certainty and institutional stability necessary for effective governance and sustained economic growth.
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