1. Supreme Court split verdict on the constitutionality of the prior sanction to probe public servants under Section 17A of the PC Act
The Supreme Court delivered a split verdict on the constitutional validity of Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, which mandates prior approval of the Union or State government before initiating an investigation into offences related to official functions of public servants. While one judge upheld the provision as a necessary safeguard against frivolous prosecution, the other expressed concerns that it could impede independent investigation, leading to the matter being referred to a larger Bench.
2. Why not adopt orphan children on streets? Supreme Court to dog lover seeking incentives for stray dog adoption
The Supreme Court questioned why similar concern was not being shown towards orphaned children living on the streets, while arguments were being advanced to incentivise the adoption of stray dogs. Observing that most submissions before the Court represented animal welfare interests alone, the Bench remarked that the perspectives and welfare of human beings, especially vulnerable children, were conspicuously absent from the debate.
3. States must frame binding rules to implement 25% RTE quota in private schools: Supreme Court
The Supreme Court held that States are duty-bound to frame binding statutory rules to ensure effective implementation of the 25% reservation for children from Weaker Sections and Disadvantaged Groups in private unaided schools under the RTE Act. The Court clarified that Standard Operating Procedures issued by child rights bodies lack the force of law and cannot substitute statutory rules.
4. Supreme Court seeks views of HCs, NLUs on relaxing 3-year practice condition for disabled judicial service candidates
The Supreme Court on Thursday sought inputs from all High Courts and National Law Universities on whether the requirement of three years’ legal practice for judicial service aspirants can be relaxed for persons with disabilities. Observing that the issue has wide institutional and constitutional implications, the Court held that stakeholder consultation was essential before taking a final decision.
5. Supreme Court reserves verdict on plea to withdraw life support for man in vegetative state since 2013
The Supreme Court reserved its judgment on a plea seeking withdrawal of life support for a 31-year-old man who has remained in a permanent vegetative state since 2013. Describing the issue as deeply sensitive, the Court observed that decisions concerning life and death require the highest degree of judicial caution and ethical consideration.
6. Supreme Court cites Manusmriti to hold widowed daughter-in-law entitled to maintenance from father-in-law’s estate
The Supreme Court recently held that a widowed daughter-in-law is entitled to claim maintenance from her father-in-law’s estate even if she became a widow after his death. Relying on principles under Hindu law, including references to the Manusmriti, the Court ruled that such a woman qualifies as a “dependant” and cannot be denied support from the family property.
7. Supreme Court seeks Centre’s response on the constitution of the Arbitration Council of India
The Supreme Court sought a response from the Union government on a plea seeking directions to constitute the Arbitration Council of India, a statutory body envisaged under the 2019 amendment to the Arbitration and Conciliation Act. The Court noted that, despite the legislative mandate, the Council has not yet been established.
8. Article 32 being misused: Supreme Court on petitions filed despite pending High Court cases
The Supreme Court strongly criticised the practice of filing Article 32 petitions when the same matter is already pending before a High Court. Terming such conduct a gross abuse of the judicial process, the Court observed that litigants cannot bypass High Courts and directly approach the apex court for every grievance.
9. Tax treaties must not erode India’s tax sovereignty and national security: Supreme Court
The Supreme Court has cautioned that international tax treaties should not be allowed to undermine India’s fiscal sovereignty or national security. Observing that sovereignty today extends beyond territorial control to economic autonomy, the Court held that India’s right to tax income arising within its territory must remain protected against external pressures.
10. Supreme Court issues directives to curb student suicides
The Supreme Court issued comprehensive directions aimed at preventing student suicides across educational institutions. Acting on the findings of a 2025 Task Force, the Court mandated compulsory reporting of such incidents and emphasised the need for stronger mental health support systems, regulatory compliance and institutional accountability.
