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Top Honour for Journalism and Social Service: Naresh Kaushal, Editor of Dainik Tribune, Awarded Silver Elephant Award

A historic and dignified ceremony was organised today at Balod, Chhattisgarh, during the First National RoverRanger Jamboree of the Bharat Scouts and Guides (BSG). On this occasion, Shri Naresh Kaushal, Editor of Dainik Tribune and a senior journalist, was conferred with the highest national honour of the Bharat Scouts and Guides the Silver Elephant Award. Shri Naresh Kaushal, Editor of Dainik Tribune, Honoured with the Highest Award of the Bharat Scouts and Guides - Silver Elephant Award This prestigious award was presented by the Honble Governor, Shri Ramen Deka, who was the Chief Guest at the inaugural ceremony of the Jamboree. Shri Naresh Kaushal was honoured for his lifelong dedication to the ScoutGuide Movement, his significant contribution to youth character building, and his role in promoting the values of service, discipline, and nation-building through journalism. It is noteworthy that Shri Naresh Kaushals association with the ScoutGuide Movement spans more than six decades. In 1964, he participated as a Scout in the Fourth National Jamboree of the Bharat Scouts and Guides held at Allahabad. At that time, his childhood friend and renowned film actor Late Shri Om Puri ji was also present. This early exposure proved to be a defining influence in his life, deeply embedding the values of service, discipline, and patriotism in his personality. On receiving this highest honour at the First National RoverRanger Jamboree, Balod, Dr Anil Jain, President, The Bharat Scouts and Guides, and Dr K. K. Khandelwal, Chief National Commissioner, The Bharat Scouts and Guides, congratulated Shri Naresh Kaushal and extended their best wishes. After receiving the award, Shri Naresh Kaushal took the General Salute at the National Jamboree and jointly unfurled the Jamboree Flag along with Dr K. K. Khandelwal. This moment became a proud and inspiring chapter in the history of the Jamboree. During the Jamboree, Shri Naresh Kaushal interacted with Rovers and Rangers from across the country, including participants from Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, and Chandigarh, among other states and Union Territories. He described scouting as a powerful medium for good citizenship, leadership development, and nation-building, and encouraged the youth to recognise their responsibilities towards society. On this occasion, he particularly appreciated activities related to environmental protection, disaster management, and first aid, describing them as essential services in the present times. Shri Kaushal also visited various camps and sub-camps and stayed in a tent amidst nature, spending time with nearly 15,000 Rovers and Rangers representing 54 States, Union Territories, Railway Zones, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), and Navodaya Vidyalaya Sangathan (NVS). The Bharat Scouts and Guides expressed confidence that this highest honour bestowed upon Shri Naresh Kaushal not only recognises his outstanding contribution but will also serve as a strong source of inspiration for youth across the nation to move forward on the path of service, discipline, leadership, and patriotism.

News Voir 10 Jan 2026 5:22 pm

Guarding The Young: Child Safety, Trial Integrity Must Trump POCSO Bail Pleas, Says SC

The observations were made as the top court set aside a bail order granted by the Allahabad High Court to a youth from Shamli, Uttar Pradesh

News18 10 Jan 2026 4:20 am

In POCSO cases, likelihood of evidence tampering, influencing witnesses legitimate concerns: SC

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Friday said the likelihood of evidence tampering or influencing witnesses after grant of bail in offences involving sexual assault against children is a legitimate and grave concern. A bench of Justices B V Nagarathna and R Mahdevan made the observations as it cancelled the bail granted by the Allahabad []

Kashmir Reader 10 Jan 2026 12:47 am

Top Court Reserves Verdict On Plea Against Om Birla Panel On Justice Varma

The Supreme Court on Thursday reserved its verdict on a plea of Allahabad High Court judge Yashwant Varma challenging the legality of the parliamentary panel probing corruption charges against him.

NDTV 8 Jan 2026 4:24 pm

Cash Discovery Row: SC reserves verdict on Justice Varmas plea challenging impeachment proceedings

New Delhi, Jan 8: The Supreme Court on Wednesday reserved its verdict on a plea filed by Allahabad High Court Justice Yashwant Varma who faces impeachment proceedings following the cash-discovery row challenging the decision of the Lok Sabha Speaker to constitute a three-member inquiry committee against him under the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968. [] The post Cash Discovery Row: SC reserves verdict on Justice Varmas plea challenging impeachment proceedings appeared first on Northlines .

The Northlines 8 Jan 2026 4:05 pm

SC Reserves Verdict On Plea Of Justice Yashwant Varma Assailing Validity Of Inquiry Panel By LS

NEW DELHI, Jan 8: The Supreme Court on Thursday reserved its verdict on a plea of Allahabad High Court judge Yashwant Varma challenging the legality of the parliamentary panel probing corruption charges against him. A bench of Justices Dipankar Datta and SC Sharma reserved its decision after hearing senior advocates Mukul Rohatgi, Siddharth Luthra, appearing for Varma and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing both houses of Parliament. During the hearing, Rohtagi and Luthra questioned the procedure adopted in setting [] The post SC Reserves Verdict On Plea Of Justice Yashwant Varma Assailing Validity Of Inquiry Panel By LS appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 8 Jan 2026 3:20 pm

Supreme Court Reserves Verdict On Justice Yashwant Varmas Plea Challenging Parliamentary Probe

Justice Varma was repatriated from Delhi High Court to the Allahabad High Court after burnt wads of currency notes were found at his official residence in New Delhi on March 14.

News18 8 Jan 2026 3:01 pm

Supreme Court reserves verdict on Justice Yashwant Varmas petition against parliamentary probe panel

The Supreme Court on Tuesday reserved its decision on a petition filed by Justice Yashwant Varma of the Allahabad High Court, who has questioned the validity of an inquiry committee constituted by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha to examine allegations against him. A bench comprising Justice Dipankar Datta and Justice Satish Chandra Sharma heard [] The post Supreme Court reserves verdict on Justice Yashwant Varmas petition against parliamentary probe panel appeared first on India Legal .

indialegallive 8 Jan 2026 2:51 pm

Supreme Court reserves verdict on plea of Justice Yashwant Varma assailing validity of inquiry panel by LS

New Delhi, Jan 8 (PTI) The Supreme Court on Thursday reserved its verdict on a plea of Allahabad High Court judge Yashwant Varma challenging the legality of the parliamentary panel probing corruption charges against him. A bench of Justices Dipankar Datta and SC Sharma reserved its decision after hearing senior advocates Mukul Rohatgi, Siddharth Luthra, appearing for Varma and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing both houses of Parliament. During the hearing, Rohtagi and Luthra questioned the procedure adopted in setting up the parliamentary panel and said under the Judges (inquiry) Act of 1968, only the Speaker of Lok Sabha and

The Sen Times 8 Jan 2026 2:45 pm

Government will do what Goans desire: CM Sawant

NT Reporter Panaji Following huge response to the public meeting convened by former Chief Justice of Allahabad High Court Retired Justice Ferdino Rebello in Panaji on Tuesday, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant reacted cautiously on Wednesday stating that the government will do what the people of Goa want. Responding to media questions at the Mantralaya post [] The post Government will do what Goans desire: CM Sawant appeared first on The Navhind Times .

The Navhind Times 8 Jan 2026 12:59 am

Comments on social media: Supreme Court grants protection from arrest to singer Neha Singh Rathore

The Lucknow Bench of the Allahabad High Court on December 5 last year had rejected the anticipatory bail plea filed by the folk singer

The Hindu 7 Jan 2026 4:26 pm

Justice Yashwant Varma Challenges Lok Sabha Speakers Inquiry Panel in Supreme Court

New Delhi, Jan 7: Allahabad High Court judge Justice Yashwant Varma on Wednesday assailed before the Supreme Court the constitution of an inquiry committee by the Lok Sabha Speaker to probe corruption charges against him, contending that the panel was formed in violation of the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968. Appearing for Justice Varma, senior advocate [] The post Justice Yashwant Varma Challenges Lok Sabha Speakers Inquiry Panel in Supreme Court appeared first on Northlines .

The Northlines 7 Jan 2026 3:20 pm

Justice Yashwant Varma Assails In SC Setting Up Of Inquiry Panel By LS Speaker To Probe Charges

New Delhi, Jan 7: Allahabad High Court judge Yashwant Varma on Wednesday opposed in the Supreme Court the setting up of an inquiry committee by the Lok Sabha Speaker to probe corruption charges against him. Referring to the provisions of the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968, Justice Varma, represented by senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, told a bench comprising Justices Dipankar Datta and Satish Chandra Sharma that if the impeachment motions are moved simultaneously in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha [] The post Justice Yashwant Varma Assails In SC Setting Up Of Inquiry Panel By LS Speaker To Probe Charges appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 7 Jan 2026 1:31 pm

Huge public meet demands swift action to protect Goa

NT Reporter Panaji A massive public meeting held in Panaji on Tuesday, convened by former Chief Justice of Allahabad High Court, Justice Ferdino Rebello, demanded immediate action from the government to protect Goas environment and regulate development. The gathering adopted the Peoples Charter (Goenchi Porjechi Magni) with participants pledging to launch a peoples movement to [] The post Huge public meet demands swift action to protect Goa appeared first on The Navhind Times .

The Navhind Times 7 Jan 2026 10:44 am

Being on waitlist does not guarantee hiring, says Allahabad high court

The Allahabad High Court ruled that waitlisted candidates do not have an absolute right to appointment, and waitlists cannot exist indefinitely. This decision came after a petition by candidates who were initially not selected for assistant teacher posts. The court emphasized that selection processes must conclude within a reasonable timeframe.

The Times of India 4 Jan 2026 4:21 am

Rent authority has jurisdiction even if tenancy pact absent: Allahabad HC

Allahabad High Court ruled that rent authorities can hear eviction cases even without written agreements or tenant particulars. The court emphasized the Uttar Pradesh Tenancy Act's intent to prevent landlords from losing eviction rights due to documentation flaws. This decision allows for quicker resolution of tenancy disputes, even in unwritten arrangements, ensuring the law's objectives are met.

The Times of India 3 Jan 2026 4:33 am

SC refuses to entertain plea against illegal arrest of businessman, asks him to move HC

NEW DELHI, Dec 31: The Supreme Court on Wednesday refused to entertain a habeas corpus plea alleging illegal arrest of a businessman from Haldwani in Uttarakhand by Uttar Pradesh Police but granted him the liberty to approach the high court for appropriate relief. A vacation bench of justices MM Sundresh and Prashant Kumar Mishra asked advocates Anand Kumar and Aditya Giri, appearing for petitioner Umang Rastogi, to approach the Allahabad High Court for relief after noting that a similar [] The post SC refuses to entertain plea against illegal arrest of businessman, asks him to move HC appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 31 Dec 2025 4:34 pm

Allahabad High Court acquits accused in 1982 murder case over inadequate evidence

The Allahabad High Court has acquitted three surviving accused who had been convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment in a murder case dating back to 1982. The Division Bench of Justice JJ Munir and Justice Sanjiv Kumar recently held that the prosecution had failed to establish the guilt of the accused beyond reasonable doubt, adding [] The post Allahabad High Court acquits accused in 1982 murder case over inadequate evidence appeared first on India Legal .

indialegallive 31 Dec 2025 1:28 pm

Ex-Chief Justice of Allahabad HC calls for united fight to save Goas ecology

Special Correspondent Panaji: Former Chief Justice of Allahabad High Court Justice (retd) Ferdino Rebello has called for the launch of a statewide peoples movement to protect Goas ecology, urging citizens to unite against hill cutting, forest diversion and unchecked real estate development. Warning of an impending ecological collapse amid growing water scarcity, he said urgent [] The post Ex-Chief Justice of Allahabad HC calls for united fight to save Goas ecology appeared first on The Navhind Times .

The Navhind Times 30 Dec 2025 1:34 am

Highest officer liable for contempt for non-compliance with court order: Allahabad HC

Maintaining that the Uttar Pradesh chief secretary will be liable for contempt in cases relating to the Land Acquisition Act, 1984, as well as the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013, the court said distribution of work between different departments cannot be used as a pretext for not implementing a court order.

The Economic Times 28 Dec 2025 9:13 am

Justice Delayed: The Unnao rape survivor's long-running legal battle

LUCKNOW: At a time when the pillars of democracy appear to be crumbling incessantly, the judiciary is still considered the last resort for the common man to seek unconditional reprieve. However, when a rape survivor is forced to sit on a dharna under the chilling winter sky against a convicted perpetrator, mind you, not an accused, the image appears deeply disturbing. The conditional bail granted by the Delhi High Court to former BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the Unnao rape case has stirred the nations conscience. Although the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the main prosecuting agency in the case, has moved the Supreme Court against the December 23 judgment , the survivors lawyer, Mehmood Pracha, has expressed serious doubts over the intent of the central agency, which has been probing the case since it was handed over to it following a massive public outcry during the Yogi Adityanath governments tenure in 2018. We are not sure if the CBI will contest this case in the Supreme Court sincerely or not. We feel that the CBI has approached the Supreme Court just to save its face and to douse public anger against the Delhi High Court order, Pracha said. He said he would approach the CBI office to get an FIR registered on behalf of the rape survivor against the investigating officer of the case and other CBI officials, who had allegedly been backing Sengar during the trial in the lower court, seeking action against them. Pracha also claimed that he was preparing to independently challenge the High Court order in the apex court so that there could be some scope of justice for the survivor in the present circumstances. The only relief for the survivor is that Sengar will remain in jail as he is currently serving another 10-year sentence for allegedly plotting the murder of the survivors father while in judicial custody. He would walk out of jail only after securing bail in that case as well. Two lawyers move SCchallenging Delhi HC order granting bail to Unnao rape convict Kuldeep Sengar Who can forget the April forenoon of 2018, when a 17-year-old minor from Unnao attempted to die by suicide outside the heavily guarded chief ministers residence in Lucknow in a desperate bid to force the state government to acknowledge her plight. The minor alleged that Sengar, then the powerful BJP MLA from Bangarmau in Unnao, had raped her the previous year. She also accused the system of shielding him. After facing alleged mudslinging and character assassination, the survivor was finally heard and an FIR was eventually registered by the Uttar Pradesh police against Sengar, his brothers and others named by her. She was aware that it would be a long and arduous battle for justice. Sengar was arrested and sent to jail, but not before allegedly plotting an assault on the survivors father while he was in custody after being picked up by district police in connection with a brawl involving Sengars supporters. The survivors father was allegedly coerced by the police authorities in Unnao to pressure his daughter into withdrawing her allegations. The Uttar Pradesh government transferred the probe to the CBI in April 2018. In 2019, the survivor had a providential escape after a truck rammed into her car on a national highway. Since then, she has been living under court-ordered Central Reserve Police Force protection in Delhi. She eventually got married in 2023. The hearing in the case was shifted to the national capital on the directions of the Supreme Court, which transferred it from Lucknow citing grave threats to the survivors life. In December 2019, the trial court sentenced Sengar to life imprisonment and ordered him to pay Rs 25 lakh as compensation. He was tried under child protection laws as the survivor was 17 at the time of the assault in 2017. However, six years after the conviction, another judicial order has brought the focus back to the 2017 case. Unnao rape case: Protest outside Delhi HC against suspension of Kuldeep Sengar's jail term Aghast at the High Court order, the survivor and her mother, along with several social activists, protested at India Gate and outside the Delhi High Court. They were allegedly dragged, pushed and pulled by the Delhi police during the protest. According to legal experts, the Delhi High Courts order was based on a legal technicality raised by Sengars counsel, whether the former legislator qualified as a public servant. The argument centred on Section 5(c) of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, which allows a life sentence for aggravated penetrative sexual assault committed by a public servant. This provision was used by the trial court to award Sengar a life sentence in December 2019. Exploiting what was argued to be a loophole in the definition of a public servant under the POCSO Act, Sengar drew benefit when a two-judge bench of the Delhi High Court ruled that he could not be categorised as a public servant either under Section 5(c) of the Pocso Act or Section 376(2)(b) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The court, in its prima facie finding, said the offence of aggravated penetrative sexual assault under POCSO was not made out against Sengar. In suspending the former MLAs life sentence, the High Court observed that since the POCSO Act did not define a public servant, the term had to be interpreted through Section 21 of the IPC, which lists various categories of public servants but does not explicitly include MPs or MLAs. Under POCSO, aggravated penetrative sexual assault by a public servant is punishable with a minimum 20-year jail term, extendable to the remainder of a convicts natural life. Several legal experts argue that the High Court order runs contrary to the trial courts findings. The trial court had held that a public servant was anyone holding an official position mandated to perform specific duties under the Constitution, and that Sengar fell within that category. Will not be scared, have faith in Supreme Court: Unnao rape survivor After settling that Sengar was not a public servant, the High Court prima facie held that he was nonetheless guilty under Section 3 of the Pocso Act, which deals with penetrative sexual assault and carries a minimum sentence of 10 years. Granting further relief, the court noted that since the offence occurred prior to the 2019 amendment to the POCSO Act, which raised the minimum punishment from seven years to 10, the earlier sentencing framework applied. Consequently, the court observed that Sengar had already served the minimum term. However, the High Courts emphasis on safeguarding the fundamental rights of a convicted offender has struck a discordant note in a case where the survivor and her family have faced alleged intimidation and constant threats from a powerful political figure. Ever since the conditional bail was granted, there has been an outpouring of support for the Unnao rape survivor, who has repeatedly said she fears for her life. The trial court had earlier flagged serious lapses in the CBIs investigation, stating that it was an inescapable conclusion that the agency did not conduct a fair probe. It observed that the CBIs alleged laxity worked to the disadvantage of the survivor and her family and also questioned the delay in filing the charge sheet in the custodial death case against Sengar. The survivors struggle dates back to the initial inaction of the Uttar Pradesh police, which was criticised by the Allahabad High Court. The disturbing feature of the case is that the law and order machinery and the government officials were directly in league and under the influence of Kuldeep Sengar, the court observed in April 2018. The court noted that the survivors father was allegedly assaulted by Sengars relatives and henchmen. Even the survivors uncle was implicated in a petty case and continues to languish in Unnao jail. Despite being grievously injured, the survivors father was declared fit by the then Unnao Chief Medical Officer, following which he was sent to jail. He later died in judicial custody. Unnao rape case: CBI to challenge Delhi HC order; survivor meets Rahul Gandhi, seeks assistance Kuldeep Singh Sengar, a party-hopping politician, was regarded as a towering figure in Unnao. The eldest of four brothers, he entered politics by winning a Gram Pradhan election in 1996. He later won the 2002 Assembly election from the Unnao constituency on a Bahujan Samaj Party ticket. Over the years, he switched parties multiple times, joining the Samajwadi Party in 2007, winning from Bangarmau, repeating the feat from Bhagwantnagar in 2012, and eventually joining the BJP to win from Bangarmau in the March 2017 Assembly election. Months later, in June 2017, the survivor accused him of raping her at his office in his ancestral village on the pretext of offering her a job. A Thakur by caste, Sengar was considered an electoral asset across parties in Unnao, a district with a sizeable upper-caste population. He consolidated his clout with the backing of his brothers, Manoj and Atul, who allegedly acted as strongmen and helped him dominate the region adjoining Lucknow. The Sengar brothers were once accused of firing at an Additional Superintendent of Police-rank officer. Instead of booking them, the state police allegedly chose to strike a compromise in 2004.

The New Indian Express 27 Dec 2025 3:47 pm

Allahabad HC quashes forgery case against shooter Vartika Singh

Court finds no evidence of cheating; notes absence of inquiry into origin of alleged forged documents

The Hindu 25 Dec 2025 9:27 pm

Consensual relation with student is not sex harassment: Allahabad high court

The Allahabad High Court ruled that a consensual relationship between a teacher and student constitutes misconduct, not sexual harassment. This decision overturned a 19-year-old dismissal order for an MNNIT lecturer, deeming the penalty disproportionate. The court noted the relationship appeared consensual and was not followed by criminal action.

The Times of India 25 Dec 2025 6:25 am

'Shockingly disproportionate': HC sets aside dismissal of professor for consensual relationship with student

LUCKNOW: Observing that the termination of a professor of the Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology (MNNIT), Allahabad, for a consensual relationship with one of his students is shockingly disproportionate, the Allahabad High Court set aside his 19-year-old dismissal order. The court further observed that the relationship with the student amounted to misconduct but not sexual harassment as it was consensual. The single-judge bench, comprising Justice Saurabh Shyam Shamshery, remitted the dismissal order to the disciplinary authority of the institute to reconsider the quantum of punishment. The bench held that while the institute was justified in proceeding against the lecturer for failing to maintain the sanctity of the teacherstudent relationship, the extreme penalty of dismissal with disqualification could not be sustained, particularly, when the relationship was admitted to be consensual, no criminal case was ever registered, and the complaint was lodged several years after the student had left the institute. Rajesh Singh, who joined MNNIT in 1999 as a Lecturer in the Computer Science and Engineering department, was dismissed from service in February 2006 following a complaint by a former woman student alleging an improper relationship during her student years. While the complainant initially alleged coercion, she later admitted that the relationship became consensual and continued for nearly three years even after she left the institute. Acting on the complaint, the institute first constituted a five-member committee, which did not return any definitive finding on sexual assault. Singh was nevertheless suspended, and a one-man inquiry commission headed by a former judge of the High Court was later appointed. The commission concluded that Singh had committed gross misconduct by showing special favour to the student and engaging in a physical relationship with her while she was enrolled at the institute. Emphasising the sanctity of the teacher-student relationship and societal expectations from educators, the commission recommended termination from service. The Board of Governors accepted the recommendation and dismissed Singh with disqualification from future employment. Singh had challenged his dismissal from MNNIT on the ground that the institute had completely bypassed the disciplinary procedure laid down under its own service rules. He argued that no charge-sheet was issued, no inquiry officer or presenting officer was appointed, and he was denied the opportunity to cross-examine witnesses. The High Court agreed that the prescribed procedure had not been followed. However, it held that Singh was not prejudiced on facts, as he had admitted to the relationship with the student, which continued even after she left the institute. The court observed that even if a full-fledged departmental inquiry had been conducted, the outcome on misconduct would not have been materially different. At the same time, the court examined whether the nature of the misconduct warranted the extreme penalty of dismissal with disqualification. It noted that the relationship was admittedly consensual, no FIR was ever lodged by the complainant, and the complaint was made several years after she ceased to be a student, following the breakdown of the relationship. The court also observed that the case did not amount to sexual harassment as understood under service rules, but was essentially one of moral impropriety. While holding that Singh failed to maintain the high moral standards expected of a teacher, the court noted that there were no other complaints against him during his service. In these circumstances, the court held, termination from service with disqualification is shockingly disproportionate. It concluded that the case may warrant a lesser, minor punishment rather than a major penalty like dismissal. Accordingly, the High Court interfered with the dismissal order only to the extent of punishment and remitted the matter to the disciplinary authority of MNNIT to reconsider the quantum of punishment in light of its observations. The writ petition was disposed of with these directions.

The New Indian Express 24 Dec 2025 6:28 pm

Court dismisses UP government plea to drop charges in Mohammad Akhlaq lynching case

A court in Gautam Budh Nagar, Uttar Pradesh on Tuesday rejected the State government's plea to withdraw the prosecution case against all the accused involved in the lynching of Mohammad Akhlaq in 2015. Additional District Judge Saurabh Dwivedi dismissed the Public Prosecutor's plea under Section 321 CrPC which sought to drop charges against the 14-surviving accused, Live Law reported. The court also directed the day-to-day hearing of the case and also passed order to ensure the protection of the evidence related to the case, the report said. The Fifty-year-old Mohammad Akhlaq was brutally lynched by his neighbours, including the son of a local BJP leader, in Uttar Pradesh's Dadri. The lynching led to nationwide protests involving slogans, Not in my name, to denounce the spike in Hindutva mob violence against Muslims. The State government filed the withdrawal application - seeking to withdraw the case against all the accused involved in the lynching- in the court on October 15. Meanwhile, Akhlaq's wife moved the Allahabad High Court against the Uttar Pradesh government's decision to withdraw the case against the accused as well as the withdrawal application filed by the Prosecutor in the Gautam Budh Nagar court. On September 18, 2015, a mob gathered outside Akhlaq's home in the Bisada village in Dadri after an announcement from the local temple alleged that he had slaughtered a cow and stored its meat in the fridge. The mob --led by Vishal Rana, son of a local BJP leader, and cousin Shivam-- dragged Akhlaq and his son Danish out of their home and assaulted them until they fell unconscious. While Akhlaq died at a Noida hospital, Danish survived after suffering severe head injuries and undergoing major surgery.

The New Indian Express 23 Dec 2025 5:12 pm

Allahabad HCRestores YouTuber's Maintenance Plea Rejected Over Her Social Media Earnings

The court emphasised that the mere possibility or capacity to earn cannot be equated with actual earnings

News18 23 Dec 2025 5:04 pm

Moral Lapse: Allahabad HC Says Dismissal Over Teacher-Student Relationship Excessive

Court said the penalty of dismissal from service with disqualification imposed on him was shockingly disproportionate and required reconsideration by the disciplinary authority.

News18 23 Dec 2025 4:32 pm

'Marriage Can't Be Declared Void At Instance Of In-Laws': Allahabad HC Recognises Soldier's Widow

The High Court rejected the in-laws argument that the absence of a 'vidai'ceremony disproved the marriage

News18 23 Dec 2025 4:31 pm

Uttar Pradesh bar council to act against tainted lawyers

The Bar Council of Uttar Pradesh has unanimously decided to suspend licenses of advocates listed as history-sheeters or gangsters. The council has initiated suo motu proceedings against 98 advocates, with 23 cases pending before the disciplinary committee. This decision was informed to the Allahabad HC during a hearing concerning an advocate facing multiple criminal charges.

The Times of India 21 Dec 2025 1:39 am

Advocates with criminal records face licence suspension: UP Bar Council to HC

Prayagraj: The Bar Council of Uttar Pradesh has informed the Allahabad High Court that it has taken a unanimous decision to suspend the licences of advocates who are listed as history-sheeters or gangsters in police records. On the history sheeter advocates, the court was also informed that the Bar Council had taken suo motu cognisance Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 20 Dec 2025 10:19 pm

36 former judges condemn Opposition leaders' bid to impeach Justice G R Swaminathan

NEW DELHI: Thirty-six former judges,including former Supreme Court and High Court Chief Justices, denounced theOpposition leaders' bid to impeach Madras High Court judge Justice G R Swaminathan, stating such an attempt, if allowed to proceed, would cut at the very roots of democracy and independence of the judiciary. This is a brazen attempt to browbeat judges who do not fall in line with the ideological and political expectations of a particular section of society. Even if the reasons mentioned by the signatory Member(s) of Parliament are taken at face value, they are wholly inadequate to justify resorting to such a rare, exceptional and serious constitutional measure such as impeachment, the former judges in a letter said. It further added that even during the dark period of the Emergency, the then Government adopted various mechanisms, including supersessions to penalise judges who refused to oe the line. The supersession of three seniormost judges of the Supreme Court after the decision in Kesavananda Bharati, the sidelining of Justice H.R. Khanna after his famous dissent in ADM Jabalpur, are sobering reminders of how political overreach can damage judicial independence. Despite these onslaughts, our Judiciary has stood the test of time and withstood all external pressures, the former judges said while condemning the move to try to impeach Justice Swaminathan. The present move (to try to impeach Justice Swaminathan) is not an isolated aberration. It fits into a clear and deeply troubling pattern in our recent constitutional history, where sections of the political class have sought to discredit and intimidate the higher judiciary whenever outcomes do not align with their interests, said the 36 former judges in their signatories letter. Terming the bid as not principled and as reasoned criticism of judicialdecisions, the letter written by 36 former judges sai, it was an attempt to weaponise impeachment and public calumny as instruments of pressure, a practice that strikes at the heart of judicial independence and the basic norms of constitutional democracy. The very purpose of the impeachment mechanism is to uphold the integrity of the judiciary, not to convert it into a tool of arm-twisting, signalling and retaliation, the letter said. To wield the threat of removal as a means of compelling judges to conform to political expectations is to turn a constitutional safeguard into an instrument of intimidation. Such an approach is anti-democratic, anti-constitutional, and an anathema to the rule of law, the letter said. Terming the present attempt as a razen one, to impeach a sitting High Court judge for discharging his judicial duty, the letter added that, therefore, it was not an isolated episode but part of a continuing assault on the dignity and independence of the judicial institution itself. Today, the target may be one judge; tomorrow, it will be the institution as a whole. The former judges, therefore, call upon all stakeholders, Members of Parliament across party lines, members of the Bar, civil society, and citizens at large to unequivocally denounce this move and ensure that it is nipped in the bud at the very inception. Judges must remain answerable to their oath and to the Constitution of India, not to partisan political pressures or ideological intimidation. The message from all constitutional stakeholders must be clear and firm: in a Republic governed by the rule of law, judgments are tested by appeals and legal critique, and not by threats of impeachment for political non-conformity, the 36 former judges stated. Out of 36 signatories, some of the names were former Supreme Court Judge Justice Krishna Murari, former Chief Justice of Delhi and Meghalaya, Rajender Menon and S Vaidyanathan, respectively. Also, 14 of Madhya Pradesh HC's former judges and 11 of Allahabad HC's former judges were signatories andcondemned the move to impeach Justice G R Swaminathan.

The New Indian Express 20 Dec 2025 8:11 pm

Married on paper, living with another partner? Court says its not legal

The Allahabad High Court ruled that individuals in a live-in relationship cannot claim legal protection if one partner is already married and hasn't divorced. Justice Vivek Kumar Singh emphasized that personal liberty does not supersede the legal rights of an existing spouse, particularly the right to companionship.

The Times of India 20 Dec 2025 9:01 am

'Sar Tan Se Juda Slogan Challenges India's Sovereignty, Integrity': Why Allahabad HC Denied Bail In Bareilly Violence Case

The court said such expressions go beyond protected speech and fall within the realm of incitement and unlawful conduct

News18 20 Dec 2025 3:02 am

'Early Years Of Legal Practice Bring Uncertain Income': Allahabad HC Cuts Maintenance Payable By Lawyer

The court noted that income in such cases is typically fluctuating and uncertain, and cannot be presumed merely on the basis of the profession

News18 19 Dec 2025 9:54 pm

No Marriage, Still A Right To Protection: Allahabad High Court On Live-In Couples

The court ruled that the Constitution does not permit interference with personal choice once the individuals involved have attained majority

News18 19 Dec 2025 9:16 pm

'Sar Tan Se Juda' Slogan Challenge To India's Integrity, Incites Armed Rebellion: Allahabad HC

Justice Deshwal drew clear lines between devotional chants and divisive threats, saying that religious proclamations carry no offense unless weaponised to intimidate others.

News18 19 Dec 2025 7:10 pm

Live-in relationships part of right to life, not illegal: HC asks police to protect couples

The Allahabad High Court has declared live-in relationships legal. Adults in such relationships are entitled to protection of life and personal liberty. The court directed authorities to ensure the safety of live-in couples facing threats. This ruling emphasizes that personal choices of adults are not subject to judicial judgment. The law recognizes these relationships, offering protection and rights.

The Economic Times 19 Dec 2025 5:04 pm

Live-In Relationships Not A Crime: Allahabad HC Orders Protection For 12 Couples

Allahabad High Court orders police protection for 12 live-in couples facing family threats, affirming their right to life and liberty regardless of marital status.

News18 19 Dec 2025 11:55 am

Sar Tan Se Juda slogan is a challenge to the authority of law as well as sovereignty of India, says Allahabad High Court

Refusing bail to a person accused of reciting this slogan, Bench of justice Arun Kumar Singh Deshwal, added that the slogan incites the people for arm rebellion and is against the basic tenets of Islam

The Hindu 19 Dec 2025 12:26 am

'Sar tan se juda' slogan challenge to India's integrity, incites people for armed rebellion: Allahabad HC

The Allahabad High Court has made a bold statement by deeming the slogan 'Gustakh-e-nabi ki ek saza, sar tan se juda' as a direct challenge to Indian laws and its national integrity. The slogan was labeled as provocative, potentially stirring armed revolt.

The Economic Times 18 Dec 2025 10:48 pm

SC Collegium recommends elevation of five judges as Chief Justices of High Courts

Justice Manoj Gupta of the Allahabad High Court was proposed for appointment as the Chief Justice of the Uttarakhand High Court, consequent upon the retirement of incumbent Chief Justice on January 9, 2026

The Hindu 18 Dec 2025 10:20 pm

SC Collegium recommends appointment of Chief Justices of five State High Courts

NEW DELHI: In a significant development, the Supreme Court Collegium, in its meeting held on December 18, 2025, has recommended the elevation and appointment of five Judges as Chief Justices to five State High Courts across the country. The SC Collegium said Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta (Allahabad High Court) has been recommended to be the Chief Justice of the Uttarakhand High Court. Justice Revati P. Mohite Dere (Bombay High Court) has also been recommended to be the Chief Justice of Meghalaya High Court. Similarly, Justice MS Sonak (Bombay High Court) has been recommended to be the Chief Justice of the Jharkhand High Court. Justice A Muhamed Mustaque (Kerala High Court) has been recommended to be the Chief Justice of the Sikkim High Court. Justice Sangam Kumar Sahoo (Orissa High Court) has been recommended to be theChief Justice of Patna High Court. The decision to recommend the Judges' names wastaken by the SC Collegium, which was headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant. This was the second major decision taken by CJI Kant after taking charge on November 24 from CJI B R Gavai (now retired).After theSCCollegium's recommendations, the Centre will deliberate upon names, decide and send its final proposal to the SC Collegium for final decision. TheSCCollegiumis an apex body, headed by the CJI, who decides, recommends and transfers judges to various State High Courts depending upon the expertise, know-how, etc.

The New Indian Express 18 Dec 2025 8:29 pm

Live-in relationships are not illegal, State must protect such couples, says Allahabad High Court

The court orders the Uttar Pradesh police to provide protection to 12 live-in couples allegedly threatened by their families

The Hindu 18 Dec 2025 7:40 pm

'Live-in relationships not illegal, State must protect couples': Allahabad HC gives relief to 12 women

LUCKNOW: The Allahabad High Court has granted protection to 12 women who are in live-in relationships, observing that such relationships cannot be termed illegal and that living together without marriage does not amount to an offence. Hearing a batch of 12 petitions, a single-judge Bench comprising Justice Vivek Kumar Singh directed the police chiefs of the concerned districts to provide immediate protection to the petitioners if anyone attempted to harass them or disturb their peaceful living. The order was passed on Wednesday. The petitioners had approached the court, stating that they were facing threats to their lives due to their live-in relationships. They claimed they had sought help from local police authorities, but no action was taken. In all the writ petitions, which were clubbed together, the petitioners sought directions to the police to protect them from family members, relatives or associates who might cause harm. In its order, the court said the controversy involved in all the petitions was similar and was therefore being decided through a common order. The Bench observed that while the concept of live-in relationships may not be acceptable to all sections of society, it could not be said that such relationships were illegal or that cohabitation without marriage constituted an offence. Live-in relationships are still facing social stigma and moral debate, especially, regarding traditional values, children, differing religious/cultural perspectives. For some, it is immoral while others see it as a valid choice for compatibility, the court observed. Referring to statutory protections, the court noted, Even under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, a woman who is in a domestic relationship has been provided protection, maintenance etc. The word wife has not been used under the said Act. Once an individual, who is a major, has chosen his/her partner, it is not for any other person, be it a family member, to object and cause a hindrance to their peaceful existence. The court emphasised that it was the bounden duty of the state to protect the life and liberty of every citizen. Mere fact that the petitioners had not solemnised marriage would not deprive them of their fundamental right as envisaged in the Constitution of India being citizens of India, it said, adding that it was not for the courts to judge adults who chose to live together without marriage. If the petitioners had not committed any offence, this court saw no reason as to why their prayer for grant of protection could not be acceded to, the order said. Therefore, with due respect to the judgments rendered by the co-ordinate benches, who have denied protection to couples, who were in a live-in relationship, this court is unable to adopt the same view. Having regard to the facts and circumstances of the case, this court is of the view that the petitioners are at liberty to live together peacefully and no person shall be permitted to interfere in their peaceful living, the Bench ruled. On the question of police protection, the court directed that if any disturbance was caused, the petitioners shall approach the Commissioner of Police/SSP/SP concerned with a certified copy of this order the police officer, after being satisfied that the petitioners are majors and willingly living together, will provide immediate protection The court further said, If the petitioners are educated and they produce educational certificates and other certificates admissible under law, from which it is evident that they have attained majority then no police officer shall take any coercive action against them unless an FIR is registered against them in respect of any offence whatsoever If they do not have any documentary proof regarding age and they come from rural background and or are illiterate/semi-literate, the police officer can subject such boy or girl to ossification test to verify their correct age and follow other procedures permissible under the law, the order added. During the hearing, the state government opposed the petitions, arguing that live-in relationships could not be accepted at the cost of the countrys social fabric. The government counsel submitted that such relationships had no legal status and could be terminated at will by either partner, leading to complications, including with respect to children born out of such relationships. There is no legal status of such a relationship and the legal status of the children born out of such a relationship would not be determined and it will create a lot of complications in the life of live-in partners, therefore, before seeking any relief from the court, they should marry first, the counsel argued. He further contended that allowing the petitions would impose an impermissible obligation on the state to supervise and protect personal choices, asserting that police protection could be granted only to couples who had solemnised marriage against family opposition, not to unmarried couples. In his concluding submission, the government counsel said, no relief can be granted by this court considering the status of the parties/petitioners. Rejecting the states objections, the court reiterated that adults in consensual relationships were entitled to protection of their life and liberty, irrespective of marital status.

The New Indian Express 18 Dec 2025 7:24 pm

Honourable prefix inappropriate for bureaucrats: Allahabad HC

Prayagraj: The Allahabad High Court questioned the use of the term honourable for bureaucrats and state government officials, asking the Uttar Pradesh revenue departments principal secretary to file a personal affidavit disclosing the authority of law that justifies the phrasing. A bench comprising Justice Ajay Bhanot and Justice Garima Prashad passed the order hearing a Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 18 Dec 2025 4:31 pm

'Honourable' prefix doesn't hold good for bureaucrats: Allahabad High Court

The Allahabad High Court is questioning the use of the title 'Honourable' for bureaucrats and state government officials. The court has asked the Uttar Pradesh revenue department's principal secretary to provide a personal affidavit. This affidavit must disclose the legal authority justifying the use of such phrasing. The court observed a trend of using 'Honourable' for various state officials.

The Economic Times 18 Dec 2025 4:10 pm

UP BJP worker gets bail in Dalit engineer assault case, garlanded by supporters

Lucknow: A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) worker, accused of assaulting a Dalit government official working in the state power department, received a rousing welcome by party members and family after the Allahabad High Court granted him bail. A video of BJP worker Munna Bahadur being garlanded by his supporters upon his release from Mau district Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 17 Dec 2025 4:06 pm

SC notice to Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha secretariats on Justice Yashwant Varma's impeachment plea

The Supreme Court has issued a notice to the Lok Sabha Speaker. This follows a plea by Allahabad High Court Justice Yashwant Varma. He is challenging the Speaker's decision to form an impeachment committee. Justice Varma argues the committee was formed unilaterally. He claims this violates the Judges (Inquiry) Act. The court questioned how parliamentary experts missed this procedural issue.

The Economic Times 17 Dec 2025 12:07 am

Cash discovery row: SC agrees to hear Justice Varma's plea against constitution of LS probe panel; lawyer flags 'procedural lapse'

An Allahabad High Court judge, Justice Yashwant Varma, has approached the Supreme Court challenging the Lok Sabha Speaker's inquiry committee formed to probe corruption allegations against him. He argues the committee's constitution by the Speaker alone is a procedural lapse, as such a panel should be jointly formed by both Houses of Parliament.

The Times of India 16 Dec 2025 6:34 pm

Supreme Court issues notice to Parliament secretariats on Justice Varmas impeachment plea

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notice to the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha Secretariats and sought detailed replies after hearing a plea filed by Allahabad High Court judge Justice Yashwant Varma challenging the impeachment proceedings initiated against him. A two-judge Bench headed by Justice Dipankar Datta issued the notices while taking up Justice Varmas petition, in which he has questioned the procedure adopted for initiating his removal. We issue notice and seek reply, the apex court said. In his plea, Justice Varma contended that the impeachment process violated the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968, arguing that the motion for his removal was not passed by both Houses of Parliament on the same day. He also challenged the constitution of the three-member inquiry committee, asserting that once motions are introduced in both Houses, the committee must be formed jointly by the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, and not unilaterally by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha. Justice Varma is facing a probe under the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968, following allegations of corruption. A parliamentary inquiry committee has already submitted a report indicting him and recommending his removal. Earlier, the three-member panel, after examining more than 55 witnesses, reported the recovery of large amounts of burnt and unburnt cash from Justice Varmas official residence. In its 64-page report, the committee held, This committee holds the money/cash that was found in the storeroom located within the premises of 30 Tughlaq Crescent... officially occupied by Justice Varma. The panel rejected Justice Varmas claim that he had no knowledge of the cash found at his residence. It is unbelievable. If there was any conspiracy, why did he not file a complaint or inform the Chief Justice of the High Court or the Chief Justice of India? the report said. The committee made scathing remarks against the judge, noting that he neither reported the incident to the police nor informed any judicial authority. It said eyewitnesses and material evidence confirmed the presence of large quantities of Rs 500 notes, both burnt and unburnt, at the residence. The panel described his conduct as unnatural and concluded that there was sufficient substance in the allegations against him, recommending his removal. On May 8, following the indictment by a Supreme Court-appointed in-house committee, then Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna, who has since retired, wrote to the Centre recommending Justice Varmas impeachment. The former CJI took the step after Justice Varma declined to resign despite being indicted by the in-house committee. Justice Khanna had earlier asked Justice Varma to step down after the committee found him guilty of misconduct. The in-house panel reached its conclusions after analysing extensive evidence and recording statements from more than 45 individuals, including Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora and the Delhi Fire Service chief. Justice Varma has consistently denied the allegations, contesting the findings in his responses to the Delhi High Court Chief Justice and the apex court-appointed panel. When contacted by TNIE through calls and messages for his response on the findings of the in-house probe panel, Justice Varma did not respond.

The New Indian Express 16 Dec 2025 2:30 pm

SC agrees to hear Justice Yashwant Varmas plea challenging constitution of inquiry panel

New Delhi, Dec 16: The Supreme Court on Tuesday agreed to hear Allahabad High Court judge Justice Yashwant Varmas plea challenging the constitution of an inquiry committee by Lok Sabha Speaker to probe corruption charges against him. The inquiry committee comprises Supreme Court judge Aravind Kumar, Madras High Court Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava, and senior Karnataka High Court advocate B V Acharya. A bench of Justices Dipankar Datta and Augustine George Masih issued notices to the office of the [] The post SC agrees to hear Justice Yashwant Varmas plea challenging constitution of inquiry panel appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 16 Dec 2025 1:44 pm

Adulterated cough syrup case: HC dismisses petitions seeking quashing of FIR

Prayagraj: The Allahabad High Court on Monday dismissed writ petitions seeking to quash FIRs filed against two men for allegedly trafficking adulterated cough syrup and stay their arrests. Petitioners accused of committing crime against society: HC A bench comprising Justice Ajay Bhanot and Justice Garima Prasad said the petitioners were accused of committing a crime Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 16 Dec 2025 7:29 am

High Court's Split Verdict In 2016 Anti-Terror Agency Officer, Wife's Murder

The Allahabad High Court has given a split verdict in a nine-year-old case involving the fatal shooting of National Investigation Agency (NIA) Deputy Superintendent of Police Tanzeel Ahmed and his wife in their car in Bijnor.

NDTV 14 Dec 2025 10:07 am

ED summons codeine smuggling kingpin Shubham Jaiswal; warns of NBW, Interpol notice

LUCKNOW: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) Lucknow Zone unit has issued a final summons to Shubham Jaiswal, identified as the kingpin of a codeine cough syrup smuggling racket, warning him that failure to appear on Monday will prompt the agency to seek a non-bailable warrant (NBW) and initiate proceedings for a Red Corner Notice against him through Interpol. Notably, Jaiswal has already been served two summons by the ED but has so far failed to appear to record his statements in connection with the smuggling racket. The ED issued the warning a day after the Allahabad High Court granted interim protection on Friday to Jaiswal and his father Bhola Prasad Jaiswal from arrest until December 17. The father-son duo is accused of running a massive cross-border narcotics racket in Uttar Pradesh. However, the HC relief could not be extended to Bhola Prasad Jaiswal, who remains lodged in Sonbhadra jail in connection with other criminal cases. He was recently arrested at Ranchi airport while allegedly trying to flee the country. Shubham Jaiswal, along with his accomplices, has already fled the country and is believed to be in Dubai. ED sources said Shubham Jaiswal was named in a UP police FIR and is one of the accused in a PMLA case lodged by the agency based on 24 FIRs filed over the past year by UP Police, STF, and FSDA. These cases relate to large-scale seizures of illegal, adulterated, or mislabelled codeine syrups, the arrest of carriers, forged stock records, and suspicious financial activities by pharmaceutical and transport firms. The FIRs cover districts including Lucknow, Chandauli, Varanasi, Ghaziabad, Sonbhadra, Sultanpur, Kanpur Nagar, Jaunpur, Bahraich, Bhadohi, and Ghazipur, pointing to a widespread and structured criminal network. According to sources, Shubham Jaiswal allegedly created fake GST invoices, manipulated stock registers, employed unregistered transporters handling pharma cargo, routed interstate cash movements through informal channels, engaged in unlicensed bottling, and ran suspected illegal manufacturing units. These findings are an offence under PMLA and is an organised financial crime, said a senior official. The ED has also written to UP Police seeking complete case files and bank details of all 67 accused, and has begun examining bank accounts, GST filings, ITRs, property registries, and digital ledgers. The agency is mapping transporters, warehouses, distributors, and interstate logistics, and is scrutinising suspected shell firms used to route profits. Sources said preliminary probes have revealed diversion of pharmaceutical stock, illegal manufacturing, smuggling routes, and laundering of profits, with the investigation still underway.

The New Indian Express 13 Dec 2025 9:42 pm

Krishna Janmabhoomi case: Allahabad HC sets Jan 30 hearing; trust seeks Dhirendra Shastri as witness

LUCKNOW: In a major development, Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Mukti Nirman Trust moved the Allahabad High Court with an application seeking inclusion of Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, Peethadheshwar of Bageshwar dham, as a spiritual witness in this case. In the application, it was claimed that Dhirendra Shastri had good knowledge of religious traditions as well as historical evidences of this case. According to the trust, there is no reference to Eidgah in the records of Mathura Municipal Corporation. Meanwhile, during the hearing of the main Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Eidgah title dispute case on Friday, the Allahabad High Court fixed January 30, 2026, as the next date of hearing. The bench, comprising Justice Avnish Saxena, fixed the next date after hearing counsels for the parties. While taking up the case, the court verified the documents regarding some amendments in the pleadings. At an earlier hearing, the court had observed that since the record was voluminous, the parties to the suit may file objections in all the pending applications, so that the applications could be decided at an early date. It had also directed to rearrange the file strictly in accordance with general rules (Civil) and number the same accordingly. It may be recalled that the Hindu side has filed 18 suits for possession of land after removal of the structure of Shahi Eidgah mosque, as well as for restoration of the temple and for permanent injunction. On August 1, 2024, the High Court had rejected applications of the Muslim side challenging the maintainability of suits by Hindu worshippers and held that all suits of Hindu worshippers were maintainable. In the August 1 order, the court had also held that these suits were not barred by the Limitation Act, Waqf Act, or the Places of Worship Act, 1991, which prohibits conversion of any religious structure as it existed on August 15, 1947. The controversy is related to the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb-era Shahi Eidgah mosque in Mathura, which is alleged to have been built after demolishing a temple at the birthplace of Lord Krishna.

The New Indian Express 12 Dec 2025 9:27 pm

Allahabad HC stays further demolition of SP leaders banquet hall; orders status quo

LUCKNOW: The Allahabad High Court came to the rescue of a Samajwadi Party leader who owns a banquet hall - Aiwane-e-Farhat - in Bareilly by restraining the Bareilly Development Authority (BDA) from carrying out any further demolition of the residential structure and marriage hall. A division bench comprising Justice Mahesh Chandra Tripathi and Justice Kunal Ravi Singh directed the parties, on Wednesday, to maintain the status quo and granted liberty to the petitioners to approach the Vice-Chairman of the BDA with applications for the regularisation and compounding of the unauthorised construction. The order came almost a week after the Supreme Court declined to entertain a writ petition filed under Article 32 by SP leader Sarfaraz Wali Khan and his wife Farhat Jahan but granted them liberty to approach the jurisdictional High Court. On December 4, the Apex Court, while disposing of the petition, noted that the demolition exercise has already begun and that partial demolition had been carried out. However, the Supreme Court had granted interim protection for one week, directing that parties maintain the status quo till December 10, 2025. When the matter was presented before the High Court, Senior Advocate Shashi Nandan, appearing for the petitioners, argued that the demolition action was being taken under the guise of an alleged order (dated October 12, 2011) that was never served upon the petitioners. The petitioners alleged that the authorities concerned proceeded directly with demolition without giving any prior notice or following the procedure prescribed under the Uttar Pradesh Urban Planning and Development Act, 1973. The petitioners expressed their willingness to resort to remedies available under the 1973 Act, as they submitted that the specific constructions were compoundable. On the other hand, Senior Advocate Ashok Mehta, representing the BDA, opposed the petition, alleging that the petitioners had concealed material facts. It was submitted that notices were issued under Section 27(1) of the 1973 Act as early as 2011 regarding the construction of a Marriage Hall (Barat Ghar) without a sanctioned map. It was pointed out that despite being afforded several opportunities between May and October 2011, the petitioners failed to appear or furnish evidence. Consequently, a demolition order was passed on October 12, 2011. The BDA further argued that, in 2018, petitioner no. 2 admitted to operating the marriage hall Aiwan-e-Farhat but claimed that the structure was old and had been purchased under a sale deed dated 1991. The Authority contended that despite this, no map was ever submitted for approval, nor was any compounding application filed. After hearing both sides, the High Court observed that it was not inclined to adjudicate the matter on the merits at this stage, given the disputed questions of fact which cannot be examined in writ jurisdiction. However, to ensure the ends of justice, the Court accorded liberty to the petitioners to move appropriate applications under Sections 14 and 15 of the 1973 Act, along with an application for compounding such portion of the construction as may be permissible under the Rules. Setting a strict deadline, the bench asked the petitioners to file such applications before the Vice-Chairman of the Bareilly Development Authority within two weeks. The Court, at the same time, directed the BDA Vice-Chairman to process those applications strictly in accordance with law and dispose of them within a further period of six weeks from the date of filing. In order to secure the property during the interim period, the High Court directed all parties to maintain status quo with respect to the property in question, and no further demolition shall be carried out until the disposal of the applications. The petitioners were also restrained from carrying out any further construction or alteration on the site.

The New Indian Express 11 Dec 2025 7:28 pm

Ashish Misra to stay in Lakhimpur Kheri from December 25 to 31: SC relaxes bail conditions

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Thursday--relaxing a bit the bail conditions--allowed former Union Minister's son Ashish Mishra , the main accused, to visit his native place in Lakhimpur from December 25-31, on the terms and conditions imposed on him by the Court in May. Liberty is granted to the petitioner (Ashish Mishra) to visit and stay in Lakhimpur Kheri from 25th December to 31st December, subject to the same terms and conditions which were there earlier. The two-judge bench of the apex court, headed by the Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi passed the order after hearing a plea filed by Mishra, seeking certain relaxation. The top court also noted that, as per the updated status report filed by the State of UP, in the main trial, 36 witnesses have been examined and 85 are yet to be examined. 10 witnesses have been exempted. The Court was also apprised by the UP Additional Advocate General that 789 trials are pending before the same judge who is hearing the case. Hearing this from the AAG, the Court listed the matter for further hearing to March 2026. During the hearing, the Court was also informed that there was a need for additional courts for hearing trial proceedings, as present judicial officers were facing extreme workload. It is notable that in May, the Court relaxed Mishra's bail conditions and allowed him to visit Lakhimpur Kheri every Saturday evening to spend time with family, subject to the condition that he should return to Lucknow Sunday evening. The Court had also in its earlier order added that while in Lakhimpur Kheri, Mishra should not participate in any public meeting or political activities and that the visit shall be private only for the family members. According to the prosecution, eight persons, including four farmers, were allegedly killed on October 3, 2021, after violence broke out in the Lakhimpur Kheri district in the state of Uttar Pradesh during a protest against the Centres farm laws that have now been repealed. The farmer's organisation, in the case, have alleged that a vehicle belonging to accused Mishra had run over a group of demonstrators. Earlier on July 22, 2023, in a major relief to prime accused, Mishra, son of former Union Minister Mishra, in the case that claimed eight lives, the Supreme Court in its order had granted him bail with slew of directions. The Supreme Court had on March this year in its decision refused to recall its earlier order granting bail to Mishraover allegations that witnesses were being threatened in the case. The accused, Mishra was first arrested in the case on October 9, 2021. He walked out of jail on February 15, 2022, after the Allahabad High Court had granted him bail. On December 6, an Uttar Pradesh court had framed charges against 14 persons including Mishra. Mishra has been charged for a number of offences including murder, attempt to murder, rioting and criminal conspiracy. The trial had begun on December 16, 2023.

The New Indian Express 11 Dec 2025 3:28 pm

MP man alleges social ostracism as panchayat orders 'boycott' for eating at Dalit's house; probe on

Raisen (MP): A man from Raisen district in Madhya Pradesh has alleged that his village panchayat ordered a social boycott against him and his family after he ate food at a Dalit's family as part of a post-death ritual, prompting the authorities to launch a probe. The incident occurred in Piparia Puaria village of Udaypura, around 100 km from the district headquarters around a month back and came to light on Tuesday during a jan sunwai (public hearing) of the matter. The village panchayat allegedly ordered the social boycott of three members of an upper caste community for consuming food at the Dalit man's house, and set certain conditions before them, including organising a feast, to avoid ostracism. While two of the three men accepted the panchayat's conditions and performed 'penance', one of them - Bharat Singh Dhakad - approached the police and lodged a complaint against the village body, alleging that he and his family members were being treated like untouchables and barred from taking part in social events, a police official said. The village sarpanch, however, dismissed the allegations. Udaypura is the assembly constituency of Madhya Pradesh Minister of State for Health Narendra Shivaji Patel. Udaypura tehsildar Dinesh Bargale said that the Dhakad filed an application to the collector during the public hearing on Tuesday, accusing the panchayat of issuing the social boycott order. Dhakad made these allegations against the sarpanch, deputy sarpanch, and panchs of the concerned gram panchayat, he said. The matter is being investigated and if the allegations are found to be true, legal action will be taken against those involved, Bargale said. Dhakad said he and his fellow gram panchayat assistant secretary Manoj Patel and teacher Satyendra Singh Raghuvanshi had a meal at a Dalit family's house in the village as part of a 'shraddha' ceremony. But after the incident, the panchayat passed a resolution declaring that eating at a Dalit's house was a greater sin than cow slaughter and those who indulged in it must purify themselves by bathing in the Ganga river and by offering a feast in the village, he said. Dhakad claimed that under pressure from the panchayat, Patel and Raghuvanshi bathed in the Ganga river and organised a feast in the village, but he refused to comply. After this, he and his family were socially boycotted and excluded from all events, he said. Dhakad said that he was being treated like an untouchable and barred from entering the temple. He also claimed that when he raised this issue with the panchayat, he was asked to have his head shaved to absolve himself of the sins and perform the pind daan (a post-death ritual) for his father while he was still alive. When contacted, sarpanch Bhagwan Singh Patel dismissed the allegations as baseless. If someone in the village is not inviting him to their programme due to personal reasons, then it is his personal matter. Allegations like untouchability are not correct, he said. The sarpanch said that MLA and Minister of State Narendra Shivaji Patel also came and tried to convince the people. But if they are not listening, what can he do? Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDOP) Kunwar Singh Mukati said that excluding someone from social events in the village, treating them as untouchables, or imposing punishments such as bathing in the Ganga, performing feasts, and tonsuring ceremonies are punishable offences under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Spreading social animosity, forcing social punishment through pressure or threats, and preventing social participation are crimes. Every citizen has the right to live with dignity and equality. Therefore, if such a case comes to light, an investigation will be conducted and the culprits will be prosecuted, he said. When Satyendra Singh Raghuvanshi, the teacher who ate with Dhakad at the Dalit's house, was contacted about this, he said that he is no longer facing any boycott. He said he has been posted at the government middle school in the village for the last 16 years and the Dalit man, where he went to have meal, has been his friend. I do not believe in the caste system, so I went to my friend Santosh Mehtar's house to eat during the 'shraddha' ceremony. Someone made a video of the incident and circulated it locally, which led to a controversy, he said. Talking to PTI , Raghuvanshi admitted that as per the panchayat's order, he went to his guru's ashram in Allahabad and came back after bathing at the sangam (confluence) of rivers. I don't have complaints against anyone, he said.

The New Indian Express 10 Dec 2025 6:04 pm

Idea is to curtail litigation, not generate it: Supreme Court while setting aside HC order on revenue map correction

The idea is to curtail the litigation and not generate it, a bench of Justices Rajesh Bindal and Manmohan said, as it set aside an order of the Allahabad High Court, which had remanded back a matter -- related to authorities rejecting a man's application for correction of a revenue map -- for fresh consideration after hearing all parties concerned.

The Economic Times 9 Dec 2025 10:18 pm

Supreme Court moves to curb court remarks that hurt victims

The Supreme Court is considering guidelines to prevent victims of sexual offenses from facing prejudice due to insensitive court remarks. Chief Justice of India Surya Kant stated such comments can have a chilling effect and pressure victims to withdraw complaints. The court will set aside a controversial Allahabad High Court ruling and ensure trials proceed without hindrance.

The Economic Times 9 Dec 2025 12:28 am

Aakar Patel | How The Ayodhya Frenzy By Advani Transformed India, Put BJP In Power

In February 1989, at the Kumbh Mela in Allahabad, the VHP said it would lay the foundation stone for the temple in November. This would involve the making of bricks across the country with Rams name embossed on them and their being carried in processions through towns and villages to Ayodhya in November

Deccan Chronicle 9 Dec 2025 12:24 am

SC stays Allahabad HC order in POCSO case; to frame guidelines for sensitive handling of sexual offence trials

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday stayed the entire order of the Allahabad High Court's March 17 decision, which had held that mere grabbing the breasts of a minor victim and breaking the string of her pyjama to bring down her lower garment were not sufficient facts to infer that the accused were determined to commit rape. A two-judge bench of the apex court, headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant and also comprising Justice Joymalya Bagchi, said it will hear the case in January for a final hearing and indicated that it will lay down guidelines for trial courts to follow while passing orders in POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) cases. Senior Advocate Shobha Gupta, appearing as amicus curiae, argued that the Allahabad HC had earlier remarked in another case that the victim invited trouble by drinking liquor and agreeing to go to the place of the accused at night. She said courts in Calcutta and Rajasthan have also made similar remarks in sensitive gender crime cases, which are totally insensitive, legally unsustainable, and send a wrong message to society. Advocate Prashanth Padmanabhan, appearing for NGO Stree Shakti, added that in a sessions court proceeding earlier in the day, a girl was allegedly harassed during an in-camera hearing. Gupta stressed that a word of caution must be issued to High Courts and lower courts to display sensitivity and responsibility while making observations in such cases, noting that the impugned order is not an isolated incident and that the frequency of such remarks is disturbing and alarming. Taking note of these submissions, the CJI said, You cite all these instances in a written note. We shall issue a set of guidelines for all High Courts and lower courts because such observations, as impugned, can have a chilling effect on victims and society at large. The top court also noted that Gupta, appearing as amicus, has been asked to submit a brief note of submissions. Let the SLP (Special Leave Petition) be listed along with these proceedings. Meanwhile, so that no prejudice is caused to the victim, operation of the HC order is stayed. The trial court shall proceed with the trial based on the summoning order under Sections 376 (rape) and 511 (attempt to commit offences punishable with imprisonment) of the Indian Penal Code, and under POCSO. The trial court shall proceed on the basis that we have not expressed any final opinion, the bench ordered.

The New Indian Express 8 Dec 2025 11:06 pm

'No home can be razed sans due process'

Allahabad High Court has halted the demolition of 27 homes in Bareilly's Shahabad area, emphasizing due process. Residents, who had been paying taxes for years, received notices declaring their homes illegal. The court directed the civic body to issue a reasoned order after a personal hearing, preventing any coercive action until then.

The Times of India 7 Dec 2025 2:32 am

HC rejects anticipatory bail plea of singer Neha Singh Rathore over alleged remarks on PM

The Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court rejected the anticipatory bail plea of Bhojpuri singer and YouTuber Neha Singh Rathore on Friday in connection with a case related to alleged indecent remarks made against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Economic Times 6 Dec 2025 12:19 pm

Allahabad HC Pulls Up Registry After Disabled Litigant Forced To Reach Courtroom Without Assistance

The HC recorded that the man, who has a locomotor disability that severely restricts his mobility, arrived in court with great difficulty

News18 5 Dec 2025 7:41 pm

Remarks against Army: SC extends stay on trial court proceedings against Rahul Gandhi till April 22

The Bench was hearing Mr. Gandhi's plea challenging a May 29 order of the Allahabad High Court dismissing his plea challenging the trial court's summoning order in the case

The Hindu 4 Dec 2025 12:43 pm

Giving SC benefits to converts to Christianity is a fraud on the Constitution: Allahabad High Court

The Allahabad High Court has ordered the Uttar Pradesh government to cease Scheduled Caste benefits for individuals converting to Christianity. The court stated that continuing these benefits would be a fraud on the Constitution. It emphasized that only Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists are recognized as Scheduled Castes.

The Economic Times 3 Dec 2025 5:02 pm

Find out if converted Christians are availing OBC, SC/ST benefits: Allahabad HC to Centre, UP govt

Allahabad High Court has directed UP authorities to investigate converted Christians claiming reservation benefits under OBC and SC/ST categories. District magistrates have been given four months to identify and prevent such practices, citing Supreme Court rulings that conversion to Christianity severs caste ties and claiming benefits post-conversion is a constitutional fraud.

The Economic Times 3 Dec 2025 12:08 am

Allahabad HC asks Uttar Pradesh to act against converts retaining SC benefits

Court cites constitutional provisions and past rulings while directing authorities to examine misuse of Scheduled Caste status after conversion

The Hindu 2 Dec 2025 7:17 pm

Parity Cannot be Sole Ground for Granting Bail to Accused in Criminal Case: SC

A bench of Justices Sanjay Karol and N Kotiswar Singh, which set aside the bail granted to the accused in a murder case by the Allahabad High Court just because the co-accused were granted bail, said relief of bail cannot be granted without due regard to the circumstances involved in the alleged offence for which the accused person has been arrested

Deccan Chronicle 2 Dec 2025 12:25 pm

Police Cannot Take Possession Of A Human Being: Allahabad HC Frees Woman Held In Protection Home

Once the bench accepted the medical assessment of her age, it held her to be a major entitled to decide where she wished to live

News18 1 Dec 2025 7:39 pm

'Sensitive Bilateral Climate, No Extradition Treaty': Allahabad HC Rejects Bail Of Chinese National

Given the absence of an extradition arrangement and the fact that co-accused had absconded earlier, the bench held that release on bail would be inappropriate

News18 1 Dec 2025 4:00 pm

'Name Changed, Converted To Islam': UP Man Who Killed Brother In 1987 Arrested After 36 Years

The case caught eyeballs last month after the Allahabad High Court pulled up the Bareilly Police and ordered them to find Pradeep within four weeks.

News18 29 Nov 2025 3:39 pm

Cutting delays, with a little help from mediators

India gets a new Chief Justice as it marks the 76th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution. A new judicial era has begun with the appointment of Justice Surya Kant as the 53rd Chief Justice of India. His rise from humble origins to the high office reflects the democratic character and inclusivity of our public institutions. The new CJI has a unique opportunity to develop the constitutional vision of access to justice. His nearly-15-month tenure has the potential to make a substantive impact on the future of the judiciary. The elements of consensus and continuity while bringing about change will be critical. Given this, CJI Kant should consider focusing on three critical aspects of judicial governance. The constitutional vision is partly clouded at present. The World Justice Projects Civil Justice Index uses accessibility, affordability, delay, and legal aid as metrics to evaluate justice systems. India ranked 114th out of 143 jurisdictions on the index for 2025. This indicated high costs, long delays, and limited use of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms. Broadening the scope of access to justice beyond the National Legal Service Authority (Nalsa) will require the active involvement of the bar, and of the corporate and transactional world of legal practice. Access to justice ought to be everyones responsibility. This brings us to the case for establishing a National Access to Justice Fund to support legal aid and related services. It could be corporate-funded, independently-managed, and tax-incentivised within the broader ambit of Nalsa, directly supporting legal services for people who cannot afford it. This will strengthen and augment Nalsa without compromising on independence or accountability. Brazil is a good example of according constitutional priority to access to justice. It has established one federal and 27 state public defenders offices. These are autonomous constitutional bodies that promote access to justice by providing free legal aid, promoting human rights, and defending the individual and collective rights of those in need. Investing resources in developing a robust ADR framework is critical. The Mediation Act, 2023 established the legal framework for creating the Mediation Council of India to encourage institutional and pre-litigation mediation, and work towards legally-binding settlement agreements. It even permits online and cross-border mediation for certain categories of disputes. Global experiences inform that a strong mediation-based dispute resolution mechanism can effectively address delays. The Singapore International Mediation Centre has settled more than 70 percent of the cases that had come before it, the same success rate as that of civil mediation in the UK. Nearly 60 percent of the cases in US federal courts get settled through mediation. China has witnessed extraordinary progress in developing mediation organisations as the first line of defence. In 2020, the Supreme Peoples Court in China launched a one-stop platform for international commercial dispute resolution. The integration of online litigation and mediation led to a 30 percent increase in successful commercial mediation. The country has also mainstreamed mediation and online dispute resolutionover 12 million cases were resolved through pre-litigation mediation in 2023, more than 40 percent of all filings. The scale and scope of mediation in China is worth studying, especially for India, where case pendency is a major issue. Serious efforts are needed to make mediation prevalent in dispute resolution in India. The idea of dedicated mediation cells with full-time mediators attached to each district court should be considered. The assessment of their performance could be based on settlement rate and user satisfaction. District and subordinate courts should consider organising case management conferences where judges record reasons for not sending cases for mediation. There is also an urgent need to fill judicial vacancies. Around 20-25 percent of positions in district and subordinate courts and 20-30 percent in high courts are unfilled.The Allahabad High Court has a vacancy of more than 40 percent. The stress on the lower courts, which operate with smaller staffing strengths, is significant as they deal with more than 85 percent of Indias caseload. The courts are also struggling with the lack of administrative staff such as court managers, clerks, and stenographers. Thirteen high courts have reported administrative vacancies of 20-50%. While judicial service examinations are the preferred way of recruiting judges, lateral entries and appointment of part-time judges, especially for district and subordinate courts, can be considered. India is an outlier among BRICS nations, with the lowest number of judges compared to its population. India has 15 judges per million peopleBrazil has 80, China has about 160, and South Africa over 40. We are also poorly placed in representation of women in the judiciary, at 37.4 percent38 percent in the subordinate courts and 14 percent in the high courts. The representation is even lesser in the nations top courtonly 3.1 percent. In the last 75 years, only 11 women have been appointed judges of the Supreme Court. Speaking at a conference earlier this month, Justice Kant had observed, The notion of access to justice is not an abstract ideal. Rather, its a sapient right that must be continuously nurtured through institutional strength, professional competence, and compassionate engagement The journey toward accessible justice is not traversed on a linear paththe road is long and winding. As the Chief Justice of India embarks on his own journey of judicial, intellectual and moral leadership along that winding road, the constitutional vision of access to justice should be the lodestar. (Views are personal) C Raj Kumar Founding Vice Chancellor, O P Jindal Global (Deemed) University, and Dean, Jindal Global Law School.

The New Indian Express 29 Nov 2025 7:48 am

Allahabad HC Rejects Bail Plea of Chinese Citizen Accused of Possessing Forged Passport

The court also considered the fact that India does not have an extradition treaty with China

Deccan Chronicle 28 Nov 2025 11:41 pm

Forcing happily-married couple to face trial under POCSO Act would be irony of fate: Allahabad HC

The woman's father got the FIR lodged, alleging that his daughter was abducted in April 2024; the woman had denied the allegations in her statement before police and stated that she had left her parents' home willingly.

The Hindu 28 Nov 2025 8:56 am

Allahabad High Court Quashes POCSO Case Against 'Happily-Married' Couple

Quashing criminal proceedings under the POCSO Act, the Allahabad High Court has observed that forcing a happily-married couple to face trial merely to record a hostile testimony would be an irony of fate and an instrument of harassment.

NDTV 28 Nov 2025 12:03 am

Forcing happily-married couple to face trial would be irony of fate: HC

Prayagraj: Quashing criminal proceedings under the POCSO Act, the Allahabad High Court has observed that forcing a happily-married couple to face trial merely to record a hostile testimony would be an irony of fate and an instrument of harassment. In the instant case, the accused man had married the alleged victim, and the latter had Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 27 Nov 2025 10:34 pm

Instrument Of Harassment: Allahabad HC Quashes POCSO Case Lodged By Father After Girl Denies Allegations

Court said continuing the case would serve no purpose when the girl, now an adult and married to the accused, has consistently denied the allegations.

News18 27 Nov 2025 2:31 pm

Very Serious: Allahabad HC Raps Trial Court For 20-Year Trial, Orders Conclusion In One Month

It also ordered that if the prosecution does not produce evidence on the next date, its opportunity to do so must be closed.

News18 25 Nov 2025 5:17 pm

Allahabad HC Upholds Life Term For Father Who Killed Teen Daughter In 2015

In her complaint, the convict's wife had narrated that her husband had been upset about their daughters frequent interactions with a local youth.

News18 25 Nov 2025 4:23 pm

Are Lawyers Demanding the Supreme Court Cancel the Election over Vote Theft? No!

This old Allahabad High Court video is being falsely shared as lawyers protesting against alleged vote theft.

The Quint 25 Nov 2025 3:25 pm

Anyone can file complaint on public property damage

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court has held that there is no provision in law which bars an individual from filing a complaint related to damage to public property. The SC was hearing an appeal against a September 24, 2024 order of the Allahabad High Court that had stayed the summoning of accused persons in the case, saying that gram pradhan had no locus to lodge an FIR in the matter. While allowing the appeal, a bench of Justices Pankaj Mithal and Prasanna B Varale said on November 18 that there was no provision in the Code of Criminal Procedure, which bars a citizen from filing a complaint for prosecution of a public servant or any other person who has allegedly committed an offence. The bench said it was well recognised principle of criminal jurisprudence that anyone can set out or put the criminal law into motion, except where the statute enacting or creating an offence indicates to the contrary. In the case at hand, there is no specific provision in the 1984 Act (Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act) which limits the eligibility of the person making the complaint, the bench said. The prosecution had filed a charge sheet under various sections of the IPC, SC/ST Act and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act in a case in Uttar Pradesh. The trial court took cognisance of the charge sheet and summoned the accused, who challenged the order before the HC. The court said that the High Court manifestly erred in law in holding that since the Gram Pradhan was not the competent authority to lodge an FIR, the action of the Special Judge in taking cognisance and summoning the accused was bad in law.

The New Indian Express 25 Nov 2025 8:43 am

SC to hear on December 1 plea of Hindu party in Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah mosque dispute case

The Supreme Court will hear a plea on December 1 concerning the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah mosque dispute. The plea challenges an Allahabad High Court order. This order treated another party as the representative of all Lord Krishna devotees. The Supreme Court believes the issue requires detailed examination.

The Economic Times 24 Nov 2025 8:46 pm

Victim Married Accused, Has Child: Allahabad High Court Drops Kidnapping, POCSO Case After 8 Years

Court found that the complainants daughter, on whose alleged kidnapping and POCSO charges the prosecution was built, had long since married the principal accused.

News18 24 Nov 2025 4:23 pm

UP Birth Registration System A Mess: Allahabad HC Orders Top Official To Explain Double Certificates

Birth certificates serve as a foundational identity document for citizens, relied upon for Aadhaar enrolment, school admissions, age verification, employment, government benefits

News18 24 Nov 2025 3:22 pm

'Will prioritise reducing pendancy of cases': CJI designate Surya Kant

NEW DELHI: The Chief Justice of India (CJI) designate Surya Kant on Saturday said that his immediate focus after assuming office would be to clear the large pendency of cases in the Supreme Court, which has now crossed 90,000. Speaking during an informal interaction with the media at his official residence at 7, Krishna Menon Marg, Justice Kant said, The number of cases has crossed 90,000 in the Supreme Court at present. I must target reducing pendency by ensuring optimal utilisation of judges. Responding to TNIE 's question on cases pending for 30 years or more, Justice Kant said he would prioritise such cases, adding that more Constitution Bench matters would be taken up. The CJI-designate said that he would also work to reduce pendency in High Courts and lower courts. I would constitute Constitution Benches on priority to decide questions of law because of which High Courts and lower courts are unable to make decisions, Justice Kant said. Justice Kant will take charge as the 53rd Chief Justice of India on November 24, and will serve until February 9, 2027, succeeding the incumbent CJI B R Gavai. On judicial promotions and reforms, Justice Kant said he would actively promote mediation, calling it a game changer and a solution to many systemic problems. The entire country is talking about mediation today. Mediation has really picked up momentum. Private corporations, MNCs, banks, etc., have approached the Supreme Court seeking training for in-house mediators. I think mediation is the need of the hour, he said. Stressing that mediation can significantly reduce pendency, he cited the law minister's participation in mediation conferences and the prime minister's emphasis on building capacity for mediation. On the government being the biggest litigant, often filing appeals even in matters it has lost, Justice Kant said he would encourage the government and its agencies to opt for mediation. Responding to a question on social media trolling of the Supreme Court and judges, he said, Agar problem aati hai toh samadhan bhi aata hai (If a problem comes, the solution also comes). On the issue of centralisation of High Court benches, he said that states have their own historical and logistical reasons behind the location of benches. Uttar Pradesh has the Lucknow Bench with outstanding infrastructure, but the bench strength is not enough. Allahabad also has a certain sanctioned strength, he noted. Speaking about Artificial Intelligence (AI), he described it as a grey area. We have to determine the boundaries of how much AI we need in the judicial process. We will take a holistic view and consult the Bar, he said. Addressing concerns about social media trolls and pressure on the judiciary, Justice Kant reiterated that he had never felt pressured at any point in his career. I dont think a judge or the CJI comes under pressure from social media... or what I jokingly call 'unsocial media'. Never carry any burden of such people. Just ignore them. Focus on your work, he said. On litigants approaching the Supreme Court directly, he said that the system must examine why people bypass High Courts and lower courts for matters that should be adjudicated there first.

The New Indian Express 22 Nov 2025 8:32 pm

HC judge recuses from Azam Khan cases just before scheduled hearing

LUCKNOW: Allahabad High Court Justice Sameer Jain, on Friday, recused himself from hearing all matters related to Samajwadi Party leader and former MP Azam Khan, including 2016 Yatimkhana (orphanage) case. Justice Jain was scheduled to hear the matter related to forcible eviction of residents from Yatimkhana Basti in Rampur in 2016, on Friday afternoon but prior to the commencement of the proceedings, he made an unexpected announcement in open court, stating that he would no longer be able to hear cases related to Azam Khan. He did not specify any reason for the recusal. At the time of the announcement, advocate SFA Naqvi and advocate Syed Ahmad Faizan appeared for co-accused, while advocate NI Jafri, advocate Shashwat Anand, and advocate Shashank Tiwari represented Azam Khan and co-accused Virendra Goyal. Lawyers present in the court described the decision as surprising, as Justice Jain had previously been hearing four cases linked to the SP leader. The court clarified that the stay on the trial courts final decision will continue until the next hearing. The matter will now be placed before an appropriate bench after allocation. Advocate Shashwat Anand called Justice Jains decision a rare instance in the High Court where a judge recused himself from all matters related to one individual at once. Justice Jain had earlier granted bail to Azam Khan on September 10 in Yatimkhana case after which the hearings were underway to consider closure of the proceedings.

The New Indian Express 22 Nov 2025 9:11 am

Allahabad High Court refuses to quash FIR against accused in Bareilly violence case

As per the prosecutions case, Maulana Tauqeer Raza had allegedly given a call to members of a particular community to assemble at the Islamiya Inter College in Bareilly on September 26

The Hindu 21 Nov 2025 11:25 am

Allahabad HC acquits man after 28 years in prison for Gaziabad bus blast

A Muslim man jailed in connection with the Gaziabad bus blast case of 1996, has been acquitted by the Allahabad High Court after 28 years. In 1997, the man identified as Mohammed Ilyas was jailed for Modingar- Gaziabad bus blast that killed 18 people. In June 1997, Ilyas was picked up from his residence in Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

The Siasat Daily 20 Nov 2025 2:04 pm