1. Right to menstrual health part of right to life under Article 21: Supreme Court issues directions for schools
In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court held that the right to menstrual hygiene and access to menstrual health products is an intrinsic part of the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution, observing that denial of proper menstrual hygiene management undermines the dignity, health and equality of the girl child. Recognising the systemic gaps in access, the Court issued a slew of directions to ensure availability of menstrual hygiene facilities in schools across India, including setting up dedicated menstrual hygiene corners and providing free menstrual pads and spare innerwear to girl students.
2. Can’t compromise nation’s sovereignty: Supreme Court on execution of Letters Rogatory
The Supreme Court observed that execution of Letters Rogatory judicial assistance sought by foreign courts cannot be carried out at the cost of India’s sovereignty, while examining issues arising in the Pfizer-Softgel case. The Court questioned whether the principle of reciprocity is followed when Indian companies seek similar assistance from foreign jurisdictions, indicating that international cooperation in criminal matters must respect constitutional limits and national interests.
3. Waqf Act does not oust civil courts’ jurisdiction or confer omnibus powers on Waqf Tribunals: Supreme Court
The Supreme Court held that Section 85 of the Waqf Act, 1995 does not automatically bar the jurisdiction of civil courts, clarifying that Waqf Tribunals have limited authority only over disputes relating to properties specifically mentioned in the notified list of auqaf. The Court ruled that civil courts continue to have jurisdiction where matters fall outside the statutory scope of the Tribunal.
4. I can criticise the government; did not say Ladakhiswouldn’t help Army: Sonam Wangchuk to Supreme Court
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk told the Supreme Court that peaceful criticism and protest against government policies are democratic rights and do not threaten national security so as to justify detention. He clarified that his statements were misinterpreted and never suggested that people of Ladakh would refuse to support the Indian Army, while the Court directed that he be medically examined following complaints of health issues.
5. Supreme Court to launch AI-powered digital platform to track case pendency
The Supreme Court announced a major technological reform involving the launch of an AI-driven digital platform aimed at real-time tracking of case pendency across courts. The initiative, unveiled by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, also includes automation of administrative processes and transparent digital payment systems to improve judicial efficiency and reduce delays.
6. Supreme Court reserves verdict on challenge to Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls
The Supreme Court reserved its judgment on a batch of petitions challenging the Election Commission of India’s decision to conduct Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls across multiple States. While the Court had earlier declined to stay the ongoing revision process, the final verdict will determine the legality and scope of the exercise.
7. Only civil courts with original jurisdiction can extend arbitral timelines under Section 29A: Supreme Court
The Supreme Court ruled that applications seeking extension of time to conclude arbitral proceedings under Section 29A of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 must be filed before the civil court having original jurisdiction. It clarified that High Courts or the Supreme Court do not retain supervisory jurisdiction over arbitration merely because they appointed the arbitrator under Section 11.
8. Supreme Court dismisses JioStar plea against CCI probe into alleged abuse of dominance
The Supreme Court dismissed a plea filed by broadcaster JioStar challenging a Competition Commission of India investigation into alleged abuse of dominant position in the Kerala cable television market. The case arose from a complaint by Asianet Digital Network, with the Court allowing the competition regulator to proceed with its statutory inquiry.
9. Supreme Court refuses plea seeking SC/ST reservation in Bar Councils
The Supreme Court declined to entertain a petition seeking reservation for Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe lawyers in State Bar Councils, advising the petitioners to approach the appropriate authorities first. The Court observed that judicial intervention cannot be sought as a matter of entitlement without exhausting statutory remedies.
10. Supreme Court proposes auction of accused’s assets to compensate acid attack victims
The Supreme Court suggested that stricter measures may be required to address acid attack cases, including auctioning the assets of offenders who are unable to compensate victims. The Court asked the Union government to consider whether legislative changes are necessary to ensure effective victim rehabilitation and deterrence.
