Browsing: Supreme Court of India

Supreme Court to Hear Presidential Reference on Powers of Governor and President Over State Bills: Key Questions on Constitutional Interpretation and Judicial Limits

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The Supreme Court will hear a Presidential Reference on July 22, 2025, to clarify the Governor’s and President’s powers in assenting to state Bills. The reference follows the Court’s April 2024 judgment setting timelines for assent, which sparked debate on judicial overreach. Fourteen key constitutional questions have been referred, including whether Governors’ and the President’s actions are justiciable, if courts can set timelines, and the scope of Article 142. The outcome will shape federalism, separation of powers, and the legislative process, influencing how state laws are enacted in India.

Supreme Court Issues Final Ultimatum to High Courts on Toilet Facilities Compliance

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The Supreme Court of India has granted high courts a final eight-week extension to file compliance reports on providing adequate toilet facilities in courts and tribunals, reinforcing sanitation as part of the right to life under Article 21. A bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan warned that failure to comply will result in Registrar Generals being summoned personally.

This directive follows the Court’s January verdict highlighting critical gaps in judicial infrastructure. So far, only five high courts—Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Calcutta, Delhi, and Patna—have filed reports outlining audits and upgrades. The Court’s firm stance signals possible contempt proceedings for non-compliance, emphasizing accountability and the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring dignity and accessibility in court premises.

Supreme Court Takes Suo Motu Cognisance of Summoning Advocates by Investigative Agencies, To Frame Guidelines

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The Supreme Court has taken suo motu cognisance of investigative agencies summoning lawyers during criminal investigations and will frame guidelines to protect lawyer-client privilege and professional independence. A bench led by CJI D.Y. Chandrachud will hear the matter on July 14. The move follows concerns after the ED summoned Senior Advocates Arvind Datar and Pratap Venugopal, later withdrawing the notices amid backlash. Bar associations urged intervention, warning of a “chilling effect” on legal practice. The Court’s guidelines are expected to safeguard legal confidentiality and uphold the autonomy of the legal profession.