Recent Delhi High Court rulings have brought 'personality rights' into focus, protecting celebrities from unauthorized commercial use of their name, voice, and likeness, especially through AI-generated content. While not explicitly codified in a single statute, these rights are derived from the Right to Privacy (Article 21), the Copyright Act 1957, and the Trade Marks Act 1999. Courts use 'passing off' actions to prevent misappropriation of goodwill. However, concerns exist regarding the potential conflict with free speech (Article 19(1)(a)) and the need for a comprehensive legislative framework to replace the current piecemeal judicial approach to ensure consistent enforcement.
- Personality rights protect an individual's unique traits (voice, image, signature) from unauthorized commercial exploitation.
- These rights are grounded in the Right to Privacy under Article 21 and provisions of the Copyright Act, 1957.
- Section 38A and 38B of the Copyright Act grant performers certain exclusive rights and moral rights over their performances.
The Election Commission of India (EC) has introduced a new e-sign feature on its ECINet portal and mobile app to streamline the addition, deletion, and correction of voter names. This feature requires applicants to verify their identity using Aadhaar-linked phone numbers via an OTP (One-Time Password) system. Previously, forms could be submitted without such rigorous verification, leading to allegations of fraudulent deletions or additions in various constituencies. The new system, developed with CDAC, aims to enhance the integrity of electoral rolls and prevent systematic attempts to manipulate voter lists by ensuring that only the specific voter can authorize changes to their details.
- The ECINet portal integrates over 40 of the Election Commission's earlier mobile and web applications into a one-stop platform.
- Identity verification is now conducted through Aadhaar-based authentication and OTP sent to linked mobile numbers.
- The feature applies to Forms 6, 7, and 8, which are used for voter registration, deletion, and corrections respectively.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, speaking at a meeting of 20 'like-minded' Global South countries at the UN General Assembly, warned that multilateralism is under attack. He noted that international organizations are being rendered ineffective or starved of resources, leaving developing nations to seek their own solutions. The meeting focused on the need for UN reforms and collective action against global 'shocks' like the pandemic, climate change, and trade uncertainties. India has consistently championed the 'Voice of Global South,' hosting summits to represent the interests of approximately 125 countries and pushing for an urgent resolution of conflicts impacting food and energy security.
- India hosted a high-level meeting of 20 'like-minded' Global South countries on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.
- Minister Jaishankar highlighted that international organizations are failing to address contemporary shocks like the pandemic and energy security.
- The 'Voice of Global South Summit' has been hosted by India for the past three years, involving about 125 countries.
The article discusses the Supreme Court's 2016 judgment in the Subramanian Swamy case, which upheld criminal defamation by arguing reputation is part of the right to life. However, recent judicial observations suggest the law is frequently misused as a tool for political retribution and intimidation. Unlike physical harm, reputational injury can be addressed through civil damages or retractions. The article argues that criminal defamation fosters opportunistic litigation and self-censorship, particularly among journalists. It notes that many countries, including the U.K., have abolished criminal defamation, suggesting India should follow suit to protect free expression and democratic debate.
- Criminal defamation allows for imprisonment for speech, which is often disproportionate to the actual harm caused to a reputation.
- The law is frequently used by political actors to silence criticism and harass rivals through lengthy and onerous litigation processes.
- Civil proceedings offer a more balanced approach by providing monetary damages without the threat of jail time for contested interpretations.
The Supreme Court of India recently dismissed a petition that sought to communalize a state-sponsored cultural event, the Mysuru Dasara festival. The court reaffirmed that secularism is a fundamental principle and part of the 'basic structure' of the Constitution. It clarified that the state cannot discriminate based on religion when organizing public events. The ruling emphasized that the constitutional right to practice religion (Articles 25 and 26) does not allow individuals to restrict others from participating in public festivities. This judgment reinforces India's pluralistic society and the Preamble's commitment to equality and secularism.
- Secularism is a core component of the Basic Structure doctrine of the Indian Constitution.
- State-sponsored events are public and cannot exclude individuals based on their religious identity.
- Articles 25 and 26 guarantee freedom of religion but do not support communal exclusion in public gatherings.
Justice M.M. Sundresh of the Supreme Court recently remarked that the time has come to decriminalize defamation. He expressed concern over the increasing use of criminal defamation laws by private individuals and political parties to settle personal scores. While the court upheld the constitutional validity of criminal defamation in the 2016 Subramanian Swamy case, recent benches have been more critical, often staying summons and advising against being 'too touchy.' The debate centers on whether defamation between private parties serves any public interest or if it merely stifles free speech guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a).
- Justice M.M. Sundresh suggested that defamation by private individuals should not be treated as a crime.
- The Supreme Court had previously upheld criminal defamation as a 'reasonable restriction' on free speech in 2016.
- Recent judicial observations suggest that courts should not be forums for settling political scores through defamation cases.
The Supreme Court is hearing a petition regarding the discretionary powers of Governors to withhold or delay assent to bills passed by State legislatures. Under Article 200 of the Constitution, a Governor has four options when presented with a bill, but the text does not specify a timeline. This has led to 'pocket vetoes' in several Opposition-ruled states. Legal experts and previous commissions, like the Sarkaria and Punchhi Commissions, have recommended fixed timelines (e.g., six months) for decisions. The Court's upcoming judgment in May 2025 is expected to clarify whether judicial review can be applied to such delays.
- Article 200 outlines the Governor's options: give assent, withhold assent, return for reconsideration, or reserve for the President.
- Article 163(1) states the Governor must generally act on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers.
- The Sarkaria Commission (1987) and Punchhi Commission (2010) suggested timelines to prevent political misuse of the Governor's office.
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and residents of Ladakh are protesting to demand constitutional safeguards for the region, which was made a Union Territory in 2019. Their primary demands include Statehood, inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil, and the filling of job vacancies. Protesters fear that without these protections, large industries and 'outsiders' will occupy their land and take away local businesses. While the Home Ministry has initiated some talks, the Leh Apex Body claims that discussions have been irregular and lack concrete progress.
- Ladakh became a Union Territory without a legislature following the reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir in 2019.
- The Sixth Schedule provides for Autonomous District Councils with legislative and judicial powers in tribal areas.
- Protesters emphasize the need to protect Ladakh's fragile ecology and unique cultural identity from industrial exploitation.
The Union Environment Ministry's decision to exempt uranium mining in Meghalaya from public consultation has triggered protests from local Khasi groups. The government issued an Office Memorandum (OM) to bypass procedural safeguards, citing national security. However, local communities and the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) argue that this violates tribal rights under the Sixth Schedule. Critics highlight that uranium mining is highly polluting and can irreversibly damage the landscape. They advocate for 'free, prior, and informed consent' as per global norms and suggest exploring alternative power-generating strategies instead of coercive extraction.
- The Union Environment Ministry exempted atomic and strategic minerals from public consultation via an Office Memorandum.
- Local Khasi groups in Domiasiat and Wahkaji have opposed uranium extraction since the 1980s due to radiation fears.
- The Sixth Schedule of the Constitution provides autonomous powers to tribal district councils to protect their rights.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has introduced the 'GST 2.0' regime, transitioning from a four-slab to a simplified two-slab tax system. Termed as 'bachat utsav' (festival of savings), the reform aims to reduce the tax burden on households, potentially saving them ₹2.5 lakh crore. The PM emphasized that this move, coupled with income tax exemptions up to ₹12 lakh for individuals, would benefit the middle and 'neo-middle' class. The reform is also intended to promote 'Aatmanirbharta' (self-reliance) by making domestic products cheaper and encouraging the MSME sector to regain its manufacturing excellence.
- The GST system has been simplified from a four-slab structure to a two-slab system to ease compliance.
- Many daily use goods previously taxed at 12% have been moved to the 5% slab.
- Income tax exemption has been provided for individuals earning up to ₹12 lakh per year.
The Supreme Court dismissed a petition challenging the selection of Muslim writer Banu Mushtaq to inaugurate the Mysuru Dasara festival. The Court emphasized that the Preamble enshrines secularism, liberty of thought, and equality as cardinal ideals. It reiterated that the State of Karnataka is secular and maintains no religion of its own. The bench noted that while the inaugural pooja is a religious activity, the "ribbon-cutting" is a secular state event. The judgment referenced landmark cases to affirm that secularism is a basic feature of the Constitution, preventing the State from discriminating between religions.
- The Supreme Court ruled that the State cannot distinguish between religions for public events like the Mysuru Dasara.
- Secularism was reaffirmed as a 'basic feature' of the Indian Constitution, as established in the Kesavananda Bharati and S.R. Bommai cases.
- The Court distinguished between secular state activities (like inauguration) and specific religious rituals performed before a deity.
India's recent condemnation of an Israeli strike in Doha as a 'violation of sovereignty' marks a notable shift from its previously muted responses to Israeli military actions. Analysts suggest this reflects India's deepening strategic ties with Qatar, a crucial supplier of natural gas and home to a large Indian diaspora. While India has maintained a balanced relationship with both Israel and Arab nations, this strong stance underscores a commitment to principles of territorial integrity. The move also highlights the growing importance of the Gulf region in India's energy security and its evolving role as a principled actor in West Asian geopolitics.
- India described the Israeli strike in Doha as a 'violation of sovereignty,' a stronger term than its usual 'concern.'
- Qatar is a vital partner for India due to its role as a major supplier of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG).
- The shift in rhetoric indicates that India's West Asia policy is becoming more nuanced, balancing strategic interests with international law.
The Supreme Court of India has highlighted the need for stricter action against farmers practicing stubble burning, a major contributor to winter air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR). While the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) was established as a statutory body to coordinate efforts across states like Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi, it has faced criticism for failing to exercise its powers independently of political pressure. The article argues that a 'carrot and stick' approach, involving better incentives for farmers and transparent enforcement of existing laws, is more effective than simply threatening imprisonment. Cooperation between the Centre and States remains crucial for a long-term solution.
- Stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana significantly worsens air quality in Delhi during October and November.
- The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) is a central statutory body empowered to address air pollution across state borders.
- Meteorological conditions, such as the receding southwest monsoon, trap toxic particulate matter near the ground.
The Supreme Court has established a three-month timeline for Governors to take a final decision on Bills passed by State legislatures. This intervention addresses the issue of 'stuck legislative business' where Governors sit on Bills for years without exercising options under Article 200. The article discusses the scope of 'discretion' under Article 163, clarifying that Governors must generally act on the advice of the Council of Ministers. It highlights that Article 355 imposes a duty on the Union to ensure State governments function in accordance with the Constitution, justifying judicial intervention when constitutional duties are neglected.
- Article 200 provides four options to the Governor: assent, withhold assent, return for reconsideration, or reserve for the President.
- The Court ruled that Governors cannot act independently of the Council of Ministers in legislative matters.
- The 3-month timeline aims to prevent the halting of the legislative machinery in states.
The Supreme Court stayed several controversial provisions of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, which aimed to regulate Muslim religious endowments. The Court halted the requirement that only Muslims practicing for five years can create a waqf and suspended the District Collectors' power to adjudicate property disputes. However, it upheld the removal of 'waqf-by-user' recognition and the capping of non-Muslim members on Waqf Boards. The government argues these amendments ensure transparency and curb corruption, while critics view them as an arbitrary interference in religious autonomy protected under the Constitution.
- The Court stayed Section 3C which authorized District Collectors to decide if a property is waqf.
- Provisions capping non-Muslim members in the Central Waqf Council at four were upheld as valid.
- The removal of 'waqf-by-user' recognition was upheld, but existing registered properties remain protected.
The Supreme Court is hearing petitions challenging the validity of 'Freedom of Religion' Acts enacted by ten Indian states. These laws, often called anti-conversion laws, aim to prevent conversions through allurement, fraud, or force. Petitioners argue that these laws are 'virtually anti-conversion' and have a 'chilling effect' on the fundamental right to profess and propagate religion under Article 25. The Court is questioning the definition of 'deceitful' conversion and whether these laws interfere with personal liberty and the right to choose a life partner in inter-faith marriages.
- Ten Indian states have enacted stringent anti-conversion laws, which are being challenged for violating constitutional rights.
- Article 25 of the Constitution guarantees the right to freely profess, practice, and propagate religion, subject to public order.
- Critics argue that the burden of proof in these laws often lies on the convert, which may be unconstitutional.
Observed on September 17, World Patient Safety Day highlights the global challenge where one in ten patients experiences harm during hospitalisation. In India, the National Patient Safety Implementation Framework (2018-25) provides a roadmap for embedding safety into clinical programs. Key initiatives include the Pharmacovigilance Program of India and accreditation by the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH). The article emphasizes the need for 'Patient Advisory Councils' to bring patient voices into decision-making and calls for a culture of safety across the entire healthcare ecosystem to prevent avoidable harm.
- World Patient Safety Day is observed annually on September 17 to promote global health safety and reduce patient harm.
- India's National Patient Safety Implementation Framework (2018-25) aims to integrate safety protocols into all levels of the health system.
- Less than 5% of hospitals in India have currently earned full NABH accreditation, highlighting a significant gap in safety standards.
The Supreme Court is hearing a Presidential Reference to clarify the constitutional position of Governors regarding the timeline for granting assent to Bills passed by State Assemblies. This follows a significant judgment on April 8, 2025. The Bench emphasized that the Constitution's silence on specific timelines in Articles 200 and 201 does not grant Governors 'unlimited discretion' to withhold Bills indefinitely. The proceedings highlight the tension between democratic principles and the Governor's role as a check on legislation. The Court aims to maintain the balance between federal cooperation and State autonomy.
- Articles 200 and 201 of the Indian Constitution deal with the Governor's power to grant or withhold assent to Bills.
- The Supreme Court clarified that Governors cannot sit on Bills indefinitely, as it paralyzes democratic governance and renders legislatures defunct.
- The proceedings involve a Presidential Reference under Article 143, which provides the Court's advisory opinion to the Centre.
In the case of Kiran vs Rajkumar Jivaraj Jain, the Supreme Court quashed a Bombay High Court order that had granted anticipatory bail to an accused in a caste-based crime. The Bench reaffirmed that Section 18 of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, creates a specific bar against anticipatory bail for such offences. The court cautioned against conducting 'mini-trials' at the bail stage and emphasized that the bar is constitutionally valid to protect vulnerable communities from intimidation and ensure effective prosecution.
- Section 18 of the SC/ST Act explicitly prohibits the grant of anticipatory bail for offences under the Act.
- The SC ruled that courts must only examine if a 'prima facie' case exists based on the FIR, without deep evidentiary analysis at the bail stage.
- The judgment highlights that electoral retaliation against SC/ST voters is a serious offence that undermines social justice.
The Supreme Court clarified that Aadhaar is part of the "right-to-vote statute" and can be used by voters for identity verification. This came during a plea challenging the use of Aadhaar for special intensive revision of electoral rolls in Bihar. The court noted that Section 23(4) of the Representation of the People Act, 1950, permits Election Commission officials to use Aadhaar to authenticate entries. While the petitioner argued Aadhaar is not proof of citizenship or residence, the court maintained its validity as a document for voter verification alongside other prescribed documents.
- Aadhaar is recognized as a valid document for voter verification under the Representation of the People Act.
- Section 23(4) of the RP Act, 1950, allows EC officials to use Aadhaar for authenticating electoral roll entries.
- The court rejected the argument that Aadhaar is inferior to other identity documents for electoral purposes.
The Supreme Court has stayed key portions of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, finding them "prima facie arbitrary." Specifically, the court stayed Section 3C, which allowed a Waqf to lose its character if a government official raised a doubt about its ownership. The court emphasized the principle of separation of powers, stating that determining property title belongs to the judiciary, not the executive. However, it refused to freeze the entire law, upholding the requirement for mandatory registration of Waqfs and the inclusion of non-Muslim members in Waqf Boards, while limiting their numbers to ensure community representation.
- The Supreme Court stayed Section 3C of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, which allowed unilateral alteration of property status by government officials.
- The court ruled that determining property title is a judicial function, and executive interference breaches the separation of powers.
- The requirement for mandatory registration of Waqfs was upheld, noting that unregistered Waqfs cannot claim legal protection.
The Ministry of Education has issued letters of intent to twelve top foreign universities to establish physical campuses in India, following UGC regulations introduced in 2023. This initiative is a core component of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to make Indian higher education globally competitive while remaining locally rooted. A U.K. university has already commenced operations in Gurugram. These campuses provide Indian students with access to international-quality education at a lower cost and foster research collaborations with Indian institutions in fields like AI and renewable energy. The move seeks to transform India into a global education hub.
- The UGC 2023 regulations provide foreign universities with operational autonomy and regulatory clarity to set up in India.
- The initiative aims to reduce the 'brain drain' and financial burden on families sending students abroad.
- Foreign campuses are expected to encourage healthy competition and raise the standards of domestic Indian institutions.
The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill 2025, passed during the monsoon session, has drawn criticism for its potential impact on India's digital economy. The Bill outlaws online real-money games, a move that critics argue violates the fundamental right to practice a profession under Article 19(1)(g). Furthermore, as 'betting and gambling' are State subjects under the Seventh Schedule, the Union's unilateral ban is seen as an encroachment on federalism. The industry was expected to generate ₹17,000 crore in GST revenue and employ 1.5 lakh people by 2025. Experts suggest that strict regulation and licensing would be more effective than total prohibition.
- The Bill bans real-money online gaming, potentially pushing the industry into the unregulated underground economy.
- Judicial precedents have consistently distinguished between 'games of skill' and 'games of chance,' protecting the former.
- The lack of consultation with State governments on a State subject raises significant constitutional propriety issues.
The expansion of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri-Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) to include all citizens aged 70 and above faces implementation delays in Tamil Nadu. While the Centre expanded the scheme to provide free treatment up to ₹5 lakh per year regardless of socio-economic status, the State and Union governments differ on beneficiary definitions and funding ratios. Tamil Nadu uses an annual income of ₹1.2 lakh for poverty determination, while the Centre relies on 2011 SECC data. Currently, the State's CMCHIS covers 1.48 crore families, but the Centre only shares the premium for 86.5 lakh families under the integrated scheme.
- The expanded AB PM-JAY provides ₹5 lakh annual coverage for all seniors aged 70+, irrespective of income.
- The standard funding ratio between the Centre and States is 60:40, rising to 90:10 for Himalayan and North-eastern states.
- Tamil Nadu seeks Central contribution for a larger pool of beneficiaries based on state-defined poverty lines.