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Centre returns 2 Haryana bills related to organised crime and disposal of dead bodies

November 19, 2024, 3:12 am

The Union government has returned two controversial bills passed by the Haryana Vidhan Sabha raising objections on certain provisions made in the bills.
As per the available information, the Haryana Control of Organised Crime Bill, 2024 and the Haryana Honourable Disposal of Dead Bodies Bill, 2024 were returned by the Centre for the reconsideration as the Centre has reportedly raised questions over certain provisions made in the bills.
The Haryana Control of Organised Crime Bill, aimed at curbing organised criminal activities in the state, includes stringent measures that have raised concerns at the central level. It is learnt that the bill was introduced to deal with the increasing number of cases of organised crime with strict punitive provisions. In the reply the Centre has raised questions over constitutionality of the clauses mentioned in the bill. As per the information this bill proposes punishments of up to life imprisonment for organised crime and penalties if the accused could not explain possession of certain properties.
Similarly, the second bill titled as Haryana Honourable Disposal of Dead Bodies Bill 2024 was reported aimed to regulate the use of dead bodies by protesters at sit-ins or for road blockades to pressurize government for their demands. The bill purposed that such practice must be prohibited . However the Centre raised certain objections to this legislation and sent it back to the state assembly. It is learnt that the state government was likely to withdraw these bills. As per the procedure, after a bill is passed, it is sent to the Governor, who reserves it for the President’s assent under Article 201 of the Constitution. Then the bill is sent to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) for consideration.
The MHA sought input from the Ministry of Law and Justice and the Ministry of Finance ans highlighted some flaws in these bills and these bills were sent back to Haryana. Now the state government may withdraw these bills and may revise it by removing the objectionable provisions.

Centre using money laundering cases as weapon against us: AAP

November 15, 2024, 3:08 am

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) senior leader Sanjay Singh criticized the BJP after AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan was granted bail by the Rouse Avenue Court on Thursday, November 14, 2024. He described money laundering cases as a “drama” and a tool used by the central government to target opposition leaders.
Singh highlighted that the court had made it clear no leader should be detained for extended periods under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). He noted that although there was no corruption case against Khan, he was still jailed, only to now be granted bail. Reacting to Khan’s bail, Singh said, “The money laundering case has become a drama and a weapon of the BJP.” He added, “The BJP files PMLA cases against whoever they wish to trap or detain, aiming to deny bail. But our fight has seen results.
After Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, and Satyendar Jain got bail, and despite the allegations against me, these bail orders have set a national precedent that no one can be held in jail on false charges indefinitely.”

According to Singh, Khan faced a similar ordeal, without any corruption case against him.

According to Singh, Khan faced a similar ordeal, without any corruption case against him. “He had already been granted bail by the lower court but was sent to jail over a false case from 2016,” he said. Singh also remarked, “I repeatedly tell PM Modi that if he harbors such anger and resentment, then he should have us stand at a crossroads and shoot us.”
Singh added, “If the AAP has become such a thorn in Modi ji’s side, he should stand our members at a crossroads and have us shot rather than wasting the country’s time and money. PM Modi has turned these investigative agencies into a spectacle. People now laugh at them—when the ED shows up, people say, ‘The monkeys have arrived.’”

Concluding his remarks, Singh said, “They come to houses, jump around, and leave. They’ve lost all credibility. The ED has turned into a comedy circus, acting like an entertainment department. Filing false cases and using the ED as a BJP weapon has become common nationwide.”

Centre Doubles Stubble Burning Fines: Farmers Now Face Rs 30,000 Penalty

November 7, 2024, 12:52 pm

The Centre has increased penalties for farmers engaging in crop stubble burning in an effort to combat air pollution. As per the latest notification, farmers with less than two acres will now face a fine of Rs 5,000, those with two to five acres will be charged Rs 10,000, and those with over five acres will incur a hefty Rs 30,000 penalty. This hike in fines follows criticism from the Supreme Court, which described the previous penalties as “toothless” against the escalating environmental damage. The court noted that earlier fines lacked effectiveness, partly due to delays in appointing adjudicating officers and implementing a regulatory framework.

The new guidelines also introduce a process for managing pollution-related complaints, designating pollution control boards and the Commission for Air Quality Management as responsible bodies. The amendment includes rules for conducting inquiries and handling pollution complaints more efficiently, a measure seen as vital for addressing air quality concerns.

In response to deteriorating air conditions, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai launched an anti-waste-burning campaign, starting Wednesday, to address the capital’s severe pollution levels. As Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) reached a concerning 356 on Wednesday morning, placing it in the “very poor” category, the city remains engulfed in smog, with temperatures unusually high for the season, leading to hazardous conditions for residents.

This increase in fines forms part of a larger government strategy to tackle pollution more effectively, aiming to create a consistent approach to handling environmental violations across the country.

Kolkata Rape-Murder Case: Centre Urges States To Implement Hospital Security Measures; Report Due By Sept 10

September 4, 2024, 6:16 pm

On Wednesday, Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra instructed all states and Union Territories (UTs) to submit an action report by September 10 on the implementation of security measures for doctors and healthcare workers. This directive follows a recent Supreme Court order emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced safety for medical professionals nationwide.

In a letter to chief secretaries and police directors of all states and UTs, Chandra expressed appreciation for their participation in a video conference held on August 28. This conference addressed the need for a secure working environment in medical institutions following the tragic rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.

Key security measures outlined include identifying high-risk hospitals, conducting security audits, installing CCTV surveillance, performing background checks, and establishing bereavement protocols. States and UTs are advised to prioritize hospitals with high patient volumes for security upgrades. Regular security audits should be carried out in coordination with local health and police authorities to improve existing measures.

Special focus is recommended for areas vulnerable to security breaches, such as emergency rooms, triage areas, ICUs, and labor rooms. Chandra emphasized the importance of proper training and the establishment of bereavement protocols to help healthcare workers manage intense and emotional situations.

Chandra noted that several states have already started implementing measures based on previous recommendations from August 23, with some even adopting additional security enhancements beyond the ministry’s suggestions.

Union Home Ministry Orders Two-Hourly Situation Reports Amid Kolkata Protests; Centre to Form Committee on Healthcare Safety

August 18, 2024, 10:13 am

The Union Home Ministry has instructed state police forces to provide updates every two hours on the situation amid protests over the alleged rape and murder of a doctor in Kolkata. Starting at 4 pm on Friday, the police are required to send updates via fax, email, or WhatsApp to the MHA control room in New Delhi.

The home ministry’s directive states, “The competent authority wishes to monitor the law and order situation in your state/UT following the murder of a trainee woman doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, West Bengal. Please ensure continuous two-hourly law and order situation reports are sent to the MHA control room.”

The protests erupted after a postgraduate trainee doctor was allegedly raped and murdered on August 9 while on duty at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. A Kolkata Police civic volunteer was arrested in connection with the crime the following day. On Tuesday, the Calcutta High Court transferred the case to the CBI. During protests on Wednesday night, a mob vandalized parts of the hospital. Medical staff across the country have been striking, disrupting health services, and calling for a central law to protect healthcare workers and secure hospitals.

In response, the Union government announced on Saturday that it will establish a committee to propose safety measures for healthcare professionals. This committee will include representatives from various stakeholders, including state governments, to gather recommendations. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) organized a nationwide 24-hour strike that disrupted OPD services.

Centre Ignoring Children’s Concerns On NEET, Says DMK’s Dayanidhi Maran

July 22, 2024, 2:30 pm

During the Lok Sabha’s Budget Session, in response to Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s comments on the NEET-UG paper leak issue, DMK Lok Sabha MP Dayanidhi Maran criticized the ruling party for ignoring the concerns of children.

“It is unfortunate that the BJP-led NDA government is not taking proper action or even listening to the voices of children. Today, the Opposition is raising its voice for the future concerns of children’s lives,” Maran said while speaking to ANI in the Parliament complex on Monday.

The DMK leader raised concerns about the accessibility of National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) question papers overseas, asking, “Why is it that NEET, which is already controversial, allows the question paper to be accessed abroad? Students living abroad, like in Japan, receive the question paper 24 hours ahead?”

Maran highlighted the recent suicides of NEET aspirants and questioned the government’s indifference towards the students who have died in Kota, even if not in Tamil Nadu.

“Moreover, I would like to ask about the number of suicides that have taken place – forget Tamil Nadu. In Tamil Nadu, more than 20 people have committed suicide. That is so painful for us. You want to forget Tamil Nadu, but what about Kota in Rajasthan, where the Honourable Speaker comes from? You are not worried about that,” the DMK MP said.

Maran accused the government of concealing the NEET paper leak issue and criticized the ruling party, questioning why children should endure hardship because of their “arrogance.”

“You defend by saying that everything is okay. Everything is not okay. You want to cover it up with an investigation. Why should the children suffer because of your arrogance and inefficiency?” the DMK leader said.

Maran also proposed that the central government should permit states to choose not to use NEET for medical entrance examinations.

“Leave it to the states. Whichever state wants it, let them do it. Whichever does not want NEET, let them opt-out,” he said.

The government has come under fire for the “paper leak” issue during the NEET-UG examination. Congress MP Manickam Tagore demanded the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET ‘paper leak’ and criticized the government for being unwilling to discuss the matter.

“We also want our people’s issues to be raised in Parliament. He (PM Modi) wants to divert from the real issues. We all want the Parliament to function, but the ruling party is not ready to have a discussion. NEET is an important issue on which we wanted to have a discussion. Till now, they are not ready to have a discussion. The education minister is a failed education minister. If he has any integrity or morality, he should have resigned,” Tagore said.

Centre imposes limits on wheat stocks

June 25, 2024, 3:52 am

In order to manage the overall food security and to prevent hoarding and unscrupulous speculation, the Government on Monday decided to impose stock limits on wheat applicable to traders/wholesaler, retailers, big chain retailers and processors for all states and Union territories. The removal of licensing requirements, stock limits and movement restrictions on specified foodstuffs (amendment) order, 2024 has been issued with immediate effect from 24 June and will be applicable until 31 March 2025 for all states and UTs.

Stock limits will be applicable to each entity individually such as traders/wholesale who can stock up to 3000 MT, retailer who has a limit of 10 MT for each of the outlets, big chain retailer who can stock upto 10 MT for each outlet and 3000 MT at all their depots and processors who have been given a limit of 70 per cent of monthly installed capacity (MIC) multiplied by remaining months of FY 2024-25.

Respective legal entities, as above, will have to declare the stock position and update them regularly on the portal of the Department of Food and Public Distribution and in case the stock held by them are higher than the prescribed limit then they have to bring the same to the prescribed stock limits within 30 days of issue of this notification.

In another important area of agri security, India is set to host a global event in the sugar sector ‘ISO Council Meeting’ in New Delhi from 25-27 June, 2024 which will be attended by delegates from more than 30 countries and representatives of many international organisations who will be deliberating on critical issues of sugar and biofuel sector. India is the world’s largest consumer and second largest producer of sugar and was nominated by the ISO Council as the Chair of the organisation for 2024.

As part of the meeting, India has started the series of events with industrial tour of the international delegates to one grain-based distillery at Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh on Monday to showcase India’s adoption of latest technology in production of biofuels and other by-products. A workshop is also being organised on 25 June on sugar and biofuels to offer a future perspective of the world on global sugar sector, biofuels, sustainability and role of farmers and strengthen the Global Biofuel Alliance in line with Prime Minister Narender Modi’s efforts to bring together countries to promote development and adoption of sustainable biofuels in the world as an effort to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases.

International Sugar Organisation (ISO) is a UN affiliated body having HQ at London. ISO has about 85 countries as members covering almost 90% of sugar production in the World. It is mandated to bring major sugar producing, consuming and trading nations together to bring mutual understanding and progressive approach in dealing with issues pertaining to the sugar sector. ISO has also been working on biofuels, especially, ethanol as sugarcane is the second major feedstock for ethanol production in the world.

UGC-NET 2024 Cancelled: Mallikarjun Kharge Questions PM Modi; Opposition Leaders React

June 20, 2024, 9:23 am

The Ministry of Education’s decision to cancel the UGC-NET exam has sparked widespread criticism and accusations from opposition leaders. The cancellation, announced amidst allegations of compromised integrity, has drawn sharp reactions from prominent figures including Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.

Kharge lambasted the government, labeling it as a “paper leak government” following the cancellation, and questioned when Prime Minister Narendra Modi would address concerns over the NEET exam. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra echoed similar sentiments, demanding accountability and accusing the BJP-led government of jeopardizing the future of youth through its alleged negligence.

The controversy intensified with the Ministry ordering a CBI investigation into the matter, amid growing calls for stringent action against those responsible. Opposition leaders, including Akhilesh Yadav of the Samajwadi Party and Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi, condemned the recurring failures in conducting fair examinations, stressing the urgent need for accountability from the National Testing Agency (NTA).

Meanwhile, the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) has called for immediate measures against the NTA, highlighting systemic flaws in examination processes and advocating for student protection.

The cancellation of the UGC-NET exam has not only triggered a political storm but also raised serious concerns about the credibility and security of national-level examinations under the current administration. As the controversy unfolds, demands for transparency and rectification measures are likely to intensify in the days ahead.

NEET-UG 2024 Result: Centre Cancels Grace Marks; Announces Re-Test; But Why Were Grace Marks Given? – Explained

June 13, 2024, 8:40 pm

The NEET exam results for 2024 have become embroiled in controversy, leading to significant disruptions in the admission process for medical courses across India. The Centre’s decision to cancel grace marks awarded to 1,563 candidates and offer them a re-test has stirred debate and raised questions about the integrity of the examination.

Background of NEET-UG 2024:

The National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (Undergraduate) (NEET-UG) serves as the primary gateway for admission to undergraduate medical programs in India. This year, over 24 lakh students appeared for the exam, which took place on 5 May across numerous centres.

Delayed Announcement and Perfect Scores:

The results, originally scheduled for 14 June, were announced on 4 June, raising eyebrows due to the unusually high number of perfect scores. A staggering 67 students achieved a perfect score of 720, prompting scrutiny and scepticism.

Awarding of Grace Marks:

Subsequently, it was revealed that 44 of the top scorers had been awarded grace marks, along with 1,563 other candidates. The grace marks were reportedly given to compensate for lost time during the exam and discrepancies in answer keys.

Reasoning Behind Grace Marks:

The National Testing Agency (NTA) attributed the awarding of grace marks to issues such as inadequate time allocation at certain exam centres and discrepancies in answer keys. These concerns prompted the formation of a Grievance Redressal Committee to address student complaints.

Normalization Process and Public Reaction:

The decision to award grace marks was based on a normalization formula established by a 2018 Supreme Court judgment. However, this process has faced criticism from students and the public, who question its transparency and fairness.

Political and Legal Fallout:

The controversy surrounding NEET-UG 2024 has led to political and legal repercussions, with the opposition demanding a Supreme Court-monitored probe into the examination process. The role of the National Testing Agency (NTA) and the government’s response to the issue have come under scrutiny.

Future Implications and Resolutions:

As the situation unfolds, there are calls for greater transparency and accountability in the examination process. Efforts to address concerns regarding the normalization process and the conduct of future NEET exams are underway, with a focus on ensuring fairness and integrity.

Conclusion:

The NEET-UG 2024 controversy underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity and credibility of entrance examinations. It highlights the need for robust mechanisms to address grievances and ensure a level playing field for all aspiring students.

Disruptive Behavior by BJP MLAs Criticized by Mamata Banerjee in Legislative Assembly

February 8, 2024, 5:59 pm

The opposition MLAs caused a massive ruckus as the West Bengal government presented its annual budget in the state Assembly on Thursday, leaving the house in disarray and drawing a strong response from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
Lashing out at BJP MLAs, Banerjee stated that “this is not a BJP party office” and that if the Opposition has any concerns, they can discuss them after the session.
The budget session began with the ruling TMC MLAs singing the state song and the BJP MLAs singing the national anthem concurrently.

The commotion, however, worsened when Minister of State for Finance Chandrima Bhattacharya was reading the budget and was interrupted by BJP MLAs who began sloganeering in the house.
The Bengal chief minister slammed opposition MLAs, describing their actions as “anti-Bengal.”

“If the opposition has any opinion, they can discuss it after the completion of the budget. They have the freedom to express their opinion, but this is not a BJP office. This is not the space for opposition to do politics. People have the right to know what work we have done. We condemn this dirty politics. They are against the state, anti-Bengal,” she said.
“They don’t want good for the people of Bengal. Aren’t you ashamed that you are not allowing us to present the budget? Your opinion can be expressed in your speech, but this is not your BJP party office, this is the Assembly, she added.

Further criticizing the Centre, Banerjee remembered how 147 MPs were suspended from Parliament, saying, “They should remember that they have suspended 147 MPs from Parliament, but we do not want to go down that path. You can be weak, but we are not, we will fight it out. If you have the courage, speak after the budget presentation, not before that.”

The West Bengal government released its yearly budget. The financial aid provided by Lakshmir Bhandar has been enhanced to 1,000 Rs for women in the general category and to 1,200 Rs for SC/ST women.
State Finance Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya made the declaration while presenting the Rs 3,66,166 crore budget to the state parliament on Thursday.

Centre notifies elevations of several judges of different HCs as Permanent Judges

January 31, 2024, 2:09 pm

The Ministry of Law and Justice, representing the Central Government, has promoted several judges across various High Courts—Calcutta, Kerala, Jharkhand, and Punjab & Haryana—elevating them from additional judges to permanent judges. In individual notifications issued on January 30, the government formalized the appointments for each judge.

As per the notifications, Justice Pradeep Kumar Srivastava, previously serving as an Additional Judge in the High Court of Jharkhand, will now assume the role of a Judge in that High Court. Similarly, Justice Shoba Annamma Eapen, who held the position of Additional Judge in the Kerala High Court, has been appointed as a Judge of the same High Court.

In the case of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, Justice Lapita Banerji, formerly an Additional Judge, has been designated as a Judge to fill a vacancy in the permanent judgeship of the Calcutta High Court. The appointment is effective from the date she assumes office, as indicated in the notification.

Furthermore, the notifications also confirm the elevation of Justice Shampa Dutt (Paul), Justice Raja Basu Chowdhury, Justice Ananya Bandyopadhyay, and Justice Rai Chattopadhyay—previously serving as Additional Judges in the Calcutta High Court—to the position of Judges in the same High Court. Their appointments take effect from the respective dates they assume charge of their offices, according to the related notifications.

These appointments align with the recent recommendations made by the Supreme Court Collegium, which comprises Chief Justice of India Dr. Justice DY Chandrachud, Justice Sanjiv Khanna, and Justice BR Gavai. The Collegium resolved to propose the names of these judges for permanent appointments in their respective high courts.

Centre: LPG gas cylinder prices slashed by ₹200 for all consumers

August 29, 2023, 6:46 pm

During a Union cabinet meeting on Tuesday, the Centre reduced the price of cooking gas by $200 per cylinder. Additional subsidies under the Ujjwala scheme have been approved by the cabinet. The extra subsidy is $200. For PMUY beneficiaries, the subsidy will now be $400 per cylinder.

“PM Modi has decided ₹200 reduction in the price of domestic LPG cylinders, for all users…this is a gift from PM Narendra Modi, to the women of the country, during the occasion of Raksha Bandhan”, said Union Minister Anurag Thakur.

Thakur told the cabinet briefing that on the festival of Rakhi and Onam, 75 lakh women will receive free gas connections through the Ujjwala scheme.

Supreme Court expresses concern over loss of lives and properties in Manipur violence

May 8, 2023, 5:28 pm

The Supreme Court on Monday expressed concern over the loss of lives and properties in Manipur during the violence between Meitei and Kuki communities, and sought a status report from the Centre and State governments on the steps being taken for safety, rehabilitation of displaced people and protection of religious places.

A bench of Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and Justices PS Narasimha and JB Pardiwala stressed taking adequate measures to restore normalcy over there. “We are concerned very deeply about the loss of lives and properties,” the bench said.

The bench asked Solicitor General of India Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre and Manipur government, to ensure that due arrangements are made in relief camps in terms of food and medicines.It further told the Centre to ensure that steps are taken to rehabilitate displaced persons and to protect places of worship.The apex court posted the matter for hearing on May 17.During the hearing, CJI Chandrachud asked Solicitor General about how many relief camps there and how many people are in the relief camps. The bench also asked what arrangements have been made since this is a “humanitarian issue”.

Solicitor General told the top court that 52 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and 105 columns of Army/Assam Rifles have been deployed in Manipur.Flag marches have been conducted in disturbed areas, Mehta told the bench, adding that a senior police officer has been appointed by the Centre as a security advisor and also a senior IAS officer was repatriated from central deputation to Manipur to function as its Chief Secretary amid the emergency situation.The movement of stranded being facilitated by security forces, SG added.

Mehta further apprised the top court that peace meetings have been conducted. Helicopters and drones were used and constant vigil is being maintained by paramilitary forces and Army.

Centre asks SC to leave it to Parliament on same-sex marriages

April 26, 2023, 5:38 pm

The Centre today asked the Supreme Court to take into account referring any issues highlighted in the arguments for legal recognition of same-sex marriages to Parliament.

Speaking on behalf of the government, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the five-judge Constitutional Court bench presided over by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud that the apex court is dealing with a “very complex subject” with “profound social impact.”

On the fifth day of the hearing, Mr Mehta stated, “The real question is who would take a decision on what constitutes marriage and between whom.”

He informed the court, which was made up of Justices SK Kaul, SR Bhat, Hima Kohli, and PS Narasimha, that the decision would have an impact on a number of other statutes and would require discussion in society and in numerous state legislatures.

Hearing in the matter is currently underway. More details are awaited.

The Constitution Bench started hearing arguments on 18 April.

Centre has opposed the petition seeking marriage equality. The Supreme Court is addressing several petitions that ask for the legal recognition of same-sex marriages. One of the early petitions brought out the lack of a legal framework that allowed members of the LGBTQ+ community to marry whoever they chose.

Centre opposes same-sex marriage, Hindu and Islamic laws give no sanction

April 17, 2023, 3:57 pm

Centre, which has long opposed legalising same-sex marriages, said today that marriage is an “exclusively heterogenous institution” and that the decision to treat same-sex unions equally to traditional marriage “seriously affects the interests of every citizen.”

The government contended that the Court should refrain from issuing such “omnibus orders” because doing so would amount to a virtual judicial rewriting of an entire branch of law.

The government categorically said that marriages across all religions are “deeply rooted in the Indian social context and indeed are considered a sacrament in all branches of Hindu law.

Even in Islam, a legal marriage can only be formed between a biological male and a biological woman because it is a sacred agreement.

The Centre referred to the petitions as “mere urban elitist views for the purpose of social acceptance” and stated that the Parliament must consider the broader views and voices of all rural, semi-rural, and urban populations, as well as the views of religious denominations, keeping in mind personal laws as well.

A five-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court, comprising Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and Justices SK Kaul, Ravindra Bhat, Hima Kohli, and PS Narasimha, is likely to hear pleas seeking legal recognition for same-sex marriage.

Centre to SC: New Data Protection Bill likely to be introduced in Monsoon Session in Parliament

April 11, 2023, 12:50 pm

The government would introduce the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill during the forthcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament in July, Center notified the Supreme Court on Tuesday.
The case was scheduled for hearing in August before a five-judge Constitutional Court panel made up of Justices KM Joseph, Ajay Rastogi, Aniruddha Bose, Hrishikesh Roy, and CT Ravikumar. The new Personal Data Protection Bill is ready and will be submitted in the Parliament’s Monsoon Session, according to Attorney General R. Venkatramani, speaking on behalf of the Centre.
The Attorney General stated, “The Bill is ready; it just needs to be introduced in Parliament during the monsoon session at the end of June, July.”

To this bench replied, “So, it will be under consideration if we list in July , August will be most practical.”

“We notice the Attorney General’s suggestion that a Bill covering several areas of the… addressing all concerns will be introduced during the Monsoon Session in July 2023. The matter should be presented to the Chief Justice of India for a bench to be formed, preferably in the first week of August, the bench mentioned in its order.
The petitioners’ attorneys asked the top court to list the case earlier because the bill hadn’t been introduced in the Parliament for a while.
“The consultation process is lengthy…We want a good law to be passed,” the Attorney General replied.

The bench was listening to two students’ complaints that WhatsApp’s 2021 Privacy Policy, which allows users’ data to be shared with the parent corporation Facebook and others, violates their right to privacy and free speech.
The Bill that addresses user privacy concerns and requirements for WhatsApp was requested by the top court last year. If the government did not comply, the case’s final hearing would start.
The Centre had previously stated that other WhatsApp users cannot discriminate against Indian users, and it had also informed the Supreme Court that the government had already withdrawn the previous Data Protection Bill and would be introducing a new one.

Karmanya Singh Sareen and Shreya Sethi, two students, brought a complaint before the Constitution bench alleging that the agreement between the two companies to allow access to calls, photos, texts, videos, and documents shared by users violates their right to privacy and their right to free speech.

Centre has ‘fooled’ Bihar over special package: Tejashwi Yadav

February 1, 2023, 3:01 pm

Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar, Tejashwi Yadav on Wednesday alleged that the Central government has not done anything for the development of Bihar and has only fooled the state over its commitments to give the state s special package and status.

After the tabling of the Union Budget, he said, “Bihar is a backward state. The PM and the centre had made commitments to grant Bihar a special package and status several times before. I do not think anything of this sort will be done. They have only fooled us. Let us see what is being done for Bihar in the budget.”

Tejashwi also compared the previous budgets with the ones presented by the BJP-led government now.

“There is a lot of difference between previous budgets and the budget now. During UPA’s time, there was a separate railway budget. The present government has totally removed the railway budget. Now the common budget is small without any detailing. The people should be clearly told about the revenue and the expenditure. People should be told where the money is coming from and where is it going.” he said.

Earlier, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar spoke on his expectations from the Union Budget 2023 and said that the government should make certain efforts for the development of the state.

While talking to the media, the CM said, “Everybody has put forward their points during the centre’s meeting with the states. Efforts should be made for the progress of a backward state like Bihar. All types of developments should take place. I have expectations in this regard.”

Centre Informs Delhi HC About A Minor Girl Admitted In AIIMS For Abortion

January 18, 2023, 5:28 pm

The Centre on Wednesday informed Delhi High Court that a 14-year-old has admitted to AIIMS for terminating pregnancy at about four months following consensual sex between teens.

The matter will be heard on 23 January. Judge Prathiba M Singh was enlightened by the counsel for the central government that according to the medical board, the minor admitted at the All India Institue of Medical Sciences was regulated the medication. The advice additionally positioned the report of the medical Board before the seat.

The youngster had moved toward the high court through her mom looking for clinical abortion as she is minor and unmarried.
The pregnancy being referred to emerged out of consensual sexual activity between the minor girl and a minor kid.
The mother of the young lady moved a request through advocate Amit Mishra looking for the end of the pregnancy without informing the neighborhood police.

It is presented that the young lady is a minor and the kid is in close connection with the family. However reporting the matter is required to the nearby police under the POCSO Act, this would bring social disgrace, segregation, and harassment to the minor as well as to the whole family.
The plea said that the young girl is not ready to proceed with the pregnancy as she isn’t arranged physically and mentally to bring up a kid.

It is also said that continuing with the pregnancy would make colossal injury to her physical and psychological well-being. It is implored to grant the candidate to abort the pregnancy at any Administration Medical clinic and explicitly at AIIMS.

It is submitted that the MTP Act permits for termination of pregnancy of up to 20 weeks if the registered medical practitioner believes that the continuation of the pregnancy would cause risk to the woman’s life or grave injury to her physical and mental health. As per the ultrasound report of 6 January , 2023, the gestation, in this case, is of 15 weeks and 4 days, the petition stated.

Shiv Sena leader Priyanka Chaturvedi asks Centre to declassify records of documented history

January 11, 2023, 4:50 pm

Priyanka Chaturvedi, a Shiv Sena member of Parliament (MP), asked that records of documented history be declassified in a letter to the Union Culture Ministry on Monday. She argued that failing to update such material would encourage people to use an “imagined history,” which she called “disastrous.”

The MP said her letter, addressing Union culture and tourism minister G Kishan Reddy, was in reference to a recent observation made by director-general of the National Archives of India (NAI) wherein it was said that no records of the wars of 1962, 1965, 1971 as well as Green Revolution are maintained with the NAI.

“This highlights the need for enhancing transparency and accessibility of records to the general public, academicians, and researchers by declassifying information of historical importance under the Public Records Act, 1993 and liberal application of the colonial legislations such as Official Secrets Act, 1923,” the MP said.

Chaturvedi while hailing the defence ministry’s decision to declassify important war records older than 25 years suggested, “The Committee formed for the review and study of such documents may be kept free of bureaucratic control depending on the sensitivity of the subject matter concerned.”

A number of governmental ministries and departments are required to transfer records that are more than 25 years old to the NAI in accordance with the Public Records Act of 1993, unless they relate to classified material. However, determining what material is classified is left to the different ministries and departments.

Underlining that records management in government is an essential aspect of good governance, Sinha said there are several ministries that have not shared their records with the NAI since independence and that the NAI has only records of 64 agencies, including 36 ministries and departments.

The records of enduring importance belonging to the Indian government are kept by the National Archives of India. The Imperial Record Department was founded on March 11, 1891 in Calcutta (now Kolkata), and today it is the largest archival repository in South Asia.

SC asks Centre, Delhi police to respond on shifting Sukesh from Mandoli jail

November 22, 2022, 11:54 am

In response to conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar’s petition, which detailed two incidents of physical assault and threat-making at Mandoli jail, the Supreme Court on Monday ordered the Center and Delhi Police to respond to the appeal.

A bench of justices Ajay Rastogi and CT Ravikumar said, “We have gone through the petition and looked into supporting evidence placed on record. Issue notice to the respondents.”

After a week, the subject will be discussed again.

Sukesh was represented by senior lawyer R Basant and advocate Ashok Kumar Singh. They told the court that after being taken to Mandoli Jail on August 26 due to allegations of extortion against Delhi prison officials, he had received threats on two separate occasions.

“It is not safe to live in the custody of jail authority of any jail which is under the interference and control of Delhi Prisons authority and Director General Prisons even for a single day,” Sukesh stated in the petition filed for shifting to any other jail in the country. Along with him, even his wife Leena Paulose sought to be shifted out of Mandoli jail.

The petition was first turned down by the bench because a similar demand made by Sukesh had been rejected by the same judge on October 18.

The bench remarked, “Why this man is filing petitions so frequently. Affordability of litigation is no ground to file litigation. Just because he can afford lawyers does not mean that he will keep filing petitions.”

According to Sukesh’s accusation, 105 jail employees are being investigated for extorting protection money from him totaling more than 12 crore, counsel Ashok Singh informed the court.

The bench emphasised that the initial accusations were made against the DG of Tihar’s prisons, who has now been replaced by another officer.

“If you are transferred, for instance, to Punjab. You will allege extortion there also. We have to draw a line somewhere. Now a new DG is there. You have to trust somewhere.”

Sukesh’s lawyer told the Court that 81 jail staff and 14 superintendents/deputy superintendents have been arrested and nearly 100 are facing enquiry of which some are posted at Mandoli jail.

He said that on August 25 he was threatened by an assistant superintendent who demanded ₹25 lakh protection money.

On August 31, he later asserted that a different assistant superintendent at Mandoli had threatened him with serious repercussions.

He allegedly had 15 CRPF members assault him when they arrived.

He added that, in response to his allegation, Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena ordered the prosecution of 82 Tihar Jail staff members on October 22. Even Sukesh’s wife acknowledged in the petition that she had faced threats for pressing the issue with the jail staff.

Sukesh was however given permission by the bench to pursue his request with the jail personnel by making the proper representations to the jail authorities.

The jail officials were further ordered by the court to decide on his legal representation within two weeks.

Guidelines for uplinking, downlinking of TV channels in India approved by Centre

November 9, 2022, 3:45 pm

The Union Cabinet has approved the guidelines for uplinking and downlinking television channels in India.

We have released the new guidelines after around 11 years. We’ve taken the approval of the Union Cabinet. As per the improvement we have considered over the years, we have made multiple improvements in terms of ease of doing business,” Secretary of I&B Ministry Apurva Chandra was quoted.

The guidelines have been issued with the objective of easing issues regarding permissions to the companies/ LLPs registered in India for uplinking and downlinking of TV Channels, setting up of Teleports/ Teleport Hubs, use of Digital Satellite News Gathering (DSNG)/ Satellite News Gathering (SNG)/ Electronic News Gathering (ENG) systems, uplinking by Indian news agencies and temporary uplinking of a live event.

“We have kept a provision that a 30-min slot should be given for things of national importance or national interest; 7-8 themes given for women empowerment, agriculture, teaching. We have tried to bring everyone on a level-playing field,” he added.

“The new guidelines have been amended after a gap of 11 years, and a number of steps have been taken to our for ease of doing business of the journals, because there are more than 870 channels which are now operating in the country. Based on our experience, these guidelines have been amended, totally important changes that now for the purpose of the live telecast, now the permission will not be required to any registration will be required for changes in a channel from SD to HD or more changes in language etc,” said Apurba Chandra.

Adding further, MIB Secretary said, “Also out now we have introduced a new provision that the channels will be required to broadcast a particular piece of content which will be of public interest. There are seven-eight themes are given in the guidelines for continuous themes of public interest, as the channels will be free to hear the content of their choice, which covers themes of public interest. So given the obligations to broadcast this, this is a new thing we will be consulting the channels will come out with more detailed guidelines.”

Govt reserves seats for terror victims in MBBS, BDS in J&K

November 8, 2022, 4:30 pm

The Union ministry of home affairs (MHA) has agreed to maintain a “reserved quota” for terror victims in Jammu and Kashmir for the academic year 2022–2023 in the MBBS and BDS programmes, according to an official statement.

For the academic year 2022–2023, the seats will be distributed to the spouses and children of terror victims from the central pool.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration, led by lieutenant governor Manoj Sinha, has also approved of the home ministry’s notification.

According to MHA’s official notification, priorities will be given to those children whose both parents have been killed by terrorists, families whose sole bread earners have been killed by terrorists and wards of victims with permanent disability and serious injury caused by terrorist operations.

Children of Union Territory (UT) permanent residents, state/UT government employees, employees of the central/other states/UT government on deputation to the state/UT, and employees of the central/other states/UT government posted in and having their headquarters in the state/UT will all be subject to the eligibility requirements.

The message also included the percentage needed to meet the quota requirements.

The candidate must have passed all required courses in physics, chemistry, biology, and biotechnology with a minimum grade of 50%.

For the SC, ST, OSC, OBC, and PWD, the percentage has been set at 40%, and for PWDs who fall under the general category, it is at45%.

Candidates will be chosen for admission to MBBS and BDS programmes based on how well they performed on the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) 2022.

In NEET 2022, the required minimum score for candidates will be 50%, 40% for those who are SC, ST, or OBC, and 45% for students with disabilities.

The central pool of MBBS and BDS seats will be subject to the reservation guidelines that the UT of J&K is currently adhering to.

SC seeks response from Centre on Women’s Reservation Bill

November 5, 2022, 12:50 pm

The National Federation of Indian Women filed a public interest litigation (PIL) on Friday asking for the revival of the “Women’s Reservation Bill,” which lapsed in Parliament eight years ago. The Supreme Court (SC) sought a response from the Central government.

Justices Sanjiv Khanna and JK Maheshwari’s bench heard the case in March of this year and ordered the Centre to respond within six weeks. They also provided the petitioner three further weeks to respond to the affidavit that the Ministry of Law and Justice was required to prepare.

“Patriarchal mindset of our society has led to the oppression of women denying them their rightful status as equals. This can only be changed if women are placed in positions of authority to effectively bring about such alterations,” read the PIL drafted by advocate Prashant Bhushan representing the petitioner

“The non-introduction of the Bill is arbitrary, illegal and is leading to discrimination,” the plea read. “Although equality of the sexes is enshrined in the Constitution, it has not become a reality even in the 75th year of Indian independence. Women represent almost 50% of the population of India but their representation in the Parliament is only about 14%,” it stated.

The evils of misogyny that exhibit in the form of rapes, outraging of modesty, eve-teasing, honour killings etc. Stem from the false notion of male superiority and authority over women and until such authority is not granted to women through concrete measures such as including more women in the Parliament, there will be no effective change in the present set up, further reads the petition.

In its judgment dated September 5, the same bench had instructed the petitioner to deliver a copy of the plea to the Centre as well, noting that it is a “important issue.” The bench sent a notice to the Center on Friday (Nov. 4) asking for its position.

In 2010, the Rajya Sabha approved the Constitution (One Hundred and Eighth Amendment) Bill, 2008, also referred to as the “Women’s Reservation Bill.” The law, however, lapsed in 2014 after the dissolution of the 15th Lok Sabha.

Centre starts drive for pensioners to submit digital life certificates

November 3, 2022, 4:03 pm

A nationwide campaign for the submission of the digital life certificate (Jeevan Pramaan) and usage of the face authentication application by pensioners in November was announced on Wednesday by the union personnel, public grievances, and pensions ministry.

Union minister Jitendra Singh said the activity will ensure continuity of pension.

“In Amrit Kaal Period, a digitally empowered pensioner would enable the creation of a digitally empowered nation,” Singh said, adding that the current process of submitting life certificates will enhance ease of living.

Previously, pensioners had to physically present their life certificates to the pension disbursing authority once a year. This proved to be a hassle, especially for elderly, ill, and infirm pensioners. The seniors had no way of finding out the status of the upgrade to their life certificates, either.

The Center introduced face recognition software that is compatible with any Android smartphone and is linked to the Aadhar database.

The integration of the integrated pensioners’ portal and the beginning of the National Anubhav Awardees Webinar series were two other efforts that Singh also disclosed.

A number of independent pension department portals as well as the websites of 17 pension disbursing institutions will be integrated as part of the universalization plan.

Every month, the National Anubav Awardees Webinar series will be held, with each webinar including two awardees. They will impart their knowledge and inspire departing workers to add their Anubhav portal.

Supreme Court has told the Centre that it cannot deny citizens grounds for refusing security clearance

November 3, 2022, 11:44 am

The Supreme Court has ruled that the Centre cannot deny citizens the grounds for refusing security clearance, no matter how serious those grounds are.

“Even offenders who face criminal charges of national implications are supplied the charge sheet, however serious the national security concern may be. Here, they are not offenders. You cannot merely say that security clearance is denied to you and tell them we won’t disclose anything about it,” a bench of justices Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud and Hima Kohli said on Wednesday over the Centre’s refusal to disclose grounds for denying security clearance to Kerala’s Media One channel.

The court heard Madhyamam Broadcasting Limited’s (MBL) request for the grounds to be disclosed. MBL operates the Malayalam current affairs channel Media One. While denying the channel security clearance, the Union Home Ministry cited a breach of national security. Following the denial, the company withdrew its uplinking and downlinking licences.

On March 2, the Kerala High Court upheld the Centre’s denial of clearance. However, on March 15, the Supreme Court stayed the revocation of security clearance and lifted the channel ban until further orders.

The Centre, represented by Additional Solicitor General KM Nataraj, told the Supreme Court on Wednesday that it was willing to disclose the reasons to the court in a sealed cover but not to the channel owners.

But the bench said the essence of court proceedings is that what is shown by one party is disclosed to the other party. “Question is whether we can do it without them [petitioner] seeing it.”

The channel’s lawyer, senior advocate Dushyant Dave, argued the moment the judges see a sealed cover and national security written on it, they are put on guard because national security is a catchphrase. “There is a serious fundamental problem…a sealed cover… does it not create a bias in the mind of a judge.”

The bench gave the Centre a day to prepare its response. “Here you are denying security clearance by saying your directors have nefarious links or that the ownership of the channel is in the hands of a hostile country. You may redact the source of your information but can you decline the information on which you have arrived at this conclusion? What is the remedy available to citizens in such cases as MHA [ministry of home affairs] that denies security clearance is a third party?”

It added that even while issuing orders detaining persons under the National Security Act, the grounds of detention are indicated. “Here they are seeking renewal of their uplinking license after 10 years.”

The bench said in 10 years, the channel has put a certain amount of investment. “It has employees and there is a certain degree of the reputation of the channel. The threshold to deny them clearance has to be higher.”

The court noted that Media One received a show cause notice in 2016, but it was dropped and the channel’s downlinking permission was renewed.

The Media One channel received security clearance in February 2011, and it was granted a licence to operate the channel in September 2011. After ten years, this permission was renewed.

The channel was served with a show cause notice for revoking the permission on the grounds of “national security and public order” on January 5, this year. Following its coverage of the Delhi riots in February 2020, the channel’s licence was briefly suspended.

Centre has upgraded the security of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Sarma

October 14, 2022, 12:32 pm

According to officials, the security has been upgraded from Z category CRPF (northeast) to Z+ category (all India).According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma’s security arrangements were reviewed “in consultation with the Central Security Agency.”

“It has been decided to upgrade his current CRPF security cover in the North East region to Z+ category on an all-India basis,” the statement continued.

The union home ministry has asked the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), the country’s largest Central Armed Police Force, to assist.

VIP security covers are divided into several categories: X, Y, Y+, Z, Z+. The Special Protection Group (SPG) is the prime minister’s highest level of security.

Centre orders the blocking of PFI websites, social media accounts, and affiliates

September 28, 2022, 2:17 pm

People familiar with the development said that hours after the Popular Front of India (PFI) and its eight affiliate or frontal organisations were banned under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), the Centre issued a “takedown” order to block these organisations’ websites and social media accounts so that they could not propagate their activities.

The official websites, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram accounts, YouTube channels, or any other online presence of PFI, Rehab India Foundation (RIF), Campus Front of India (CFI), All India Imams Council (AIIC), National Confederation of Human Rights Organization (NCHRO), National Women’s Front, Junior Front, Empower India Foundation, and Rehab Foundation (Kerala) are being permanently blocked as part of the “takedown” order, and contents posted by them are being removed.

PFI, RIF, and AIIC websites had already been blocked at the time of filing this report. Others are being processed on the orders of the Department of Telecommunications, based on referrals from central agencies, according to an unnamed official.

According to this source, references are being sent to social media companies such as Facebook and Twitter to remove their accounts and any content related to PFI, which is now a terror organisation.

PFI, as an “illegal association,” will not issue any press statements through any official channel.

Furthermore, according to a second official familiar with the situation, official WhatsApp accounts linked to PFI, CFI, RIF, and other affiliates will be monitored, and any anti-national activity will be prosecuted.

According to the second officer, if the PFI or any of its affiliates open any proxy social media accounts or websites for their activities, those can now be blocked as well.

Centre urges nation to celebrate UNESCO’s recognition of Durga Puja

September 23, 2022, 11:43 am

The Union Ministry of Culture urged everyone on Thursday to celebrate Durga Puja’s inclusion as the first Indian festival on UNESCO’s Representation List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Meenakshi Lekhi, Union Minister of State for Culture and External Affairs praised the Centre’s efforts to promote India’s culture and heritage.

“Nominating the Durga Puja in Intangible Cultural Heritage list is the country’s pride. We have taken all the advice into consideration. As per the direction, we nominated Durga Puja as the Intangible culture of the country because cutting across states is celebrated by everyone. In this process, it brings everyone together, it’s Unity in Diversity,” Lekhi said.

According to the union minister, India has submitted ‘Garba’ for consideration on UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

She went on to explain how the “whole-of-government approach” resulted in Durga Puja being successfully inscribed on the UNESCO list.

According to Lekhi, the union culture ministry was involved in preparing the dossiers for inscription, while the union external affairs ministry gathered international support for voting.

She added that everyone should rise above petty politics.

However, Lekhi attacked West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee for taking credit for the inclusion of the festival on UNESCO’s list.

“It is horrendous a state government that banned Durga Puja and idol immersion was taking credit for this feat,” she said.

Lekhi also praised the artisans who worked on the creation of Durga idols and pandals.

She will honour 30 such artisans on September 24 at a ministry-organized event in Kolkata.

Centre issues draft rules for mandatory rear seat belt alarms

September 21, 2022, 11:56 am

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has issued draught rules requiring car manufacturers to install rear seatbelt alarm systems. According to the reports, the deadline for public comments on the draught rules is October 5.

After former Tata Sons chairman Cyrus Mistry died in a road accident on September 4 in Maharashtra’s Palghar, the Narendra Modi government has been pushing for more measures to ensure road safety. Mistry was seated in the back and was not wearing a seatbelt, according to police.

Nitin Gadkari, the Union Road Transport Minister, has already stated that wearing a seat belt in the back seat will be mandatory for all, and violators will face penalties. The minister stated in a video shared on Twitter that the safety alarms that beep for passengers who do not wear seat belts in the front seat will also beep for passengers in the back seat.

The Centre has already notified e-commerce platforms that they must stop selling devices that disable seat belt alarms.

The Delhi Traffic Police has been conducting checks in the national capital, fining passengers who are not wearing rear seat belts a $1,000 fine.

Cab aggregators Ola and Uber have also instructed their drivers to make certain that the rear seat belts in their vehicles are visible and fully functional. Uber is also conducting surprise checks at airports to ensure that drivers are wearing seat belts.

According to National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, over 1.55 lakh people died in road accidents across the country last year. It equates to an average of 426 per day, or 18 per hour. According to the report Road Accidents in India — 2020, non-use of seat belts was responsible for more than 11% of deaths and injuries.