Despite recent conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza raising doubts about its relevance, international law is not dying but facing challenges. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres affirms its continued importance, shaping state conduct daily in areas like aviation, maritime law, and human rights. While acknowledging imperfections and historical biases reflecting power structures, international law provides a crucial framework for peaceful coexistence, dispute resolution, and cooperation on global issues like climate change and health. Its effectiveness is challenged by violations by powerful states and a lack of political will, but it remains essential for protecting human rights and ensuring accountability. Strengthening institutions and promoting rule of law are key to its future.
- Recent global conflicts have led to doubts about the relevance of international law, but it continues to shape state conduct and provide a framework for resolution.
- International law's quiet accomplishments are visible daily in various sectors, from aviation regulations to human rights.
- Challenges include violations by powerful states, lack of political will, and slow enforcement mechanisms, alongside emerging issues like cyber warfare.
Eviction notices continue to be issued in the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve, threatening indigenous and forest-dwelling communities, despite the existence of the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006. The Forest Department claims encroachment on forest land, while the Supreme Court has directed a time-bound eviction plan with rehabilitation and due process, emphasizing Gram Sabha verification. Critics argue these evictions violate FRA provisions, ignore Gram Sabha's role, and disproportionately impact tribal communities, creating fear and displacement. The issue highlights the conflict between conservation efforts and the rights of traditional forest dwellers, underscoring the need for strict FRA implementation and balancing conservation with community livelihoods.
- Eviction notices in Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve are issued despite the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006, which recognizes forest-dwelling communities' rights.
- The Supreme Court has directed a time-bound eviction plan, emphasizing rehabilitation and verification by Gram Sabhas.
- The evictions are problematic as they violate FRA, ignore Gram Sabha's role, and disproportionately affect tribal communities.
The article critically examines the prolonged incarceration of political prisoners in India, citing the case of Sharjeel Imam, detained for over six years without trial under sedition and UAPA laws. It highlights how these stringent laws facilitate indefinite detention without bail, effectively punishing individuals before conviction and undermining fundamental rights. The author argues that such legal provisions are often misused to suppress dissent, silence activists, and disproportionately target minorities, creating a climate of fear and injustice. The delays in the justice system further exacerbate the plight of these prisoners, denying them due process and liberty.
- Political prisoners in India face prolonged detention without trial under stringent laws.
- Sedition and UAPA laws are criticised for enabling indefinite incarceration without bail.
- The misuse of these laws is seen as a tool to suppress dissent and target activists.
The Bombay High Court overturned the trial court's acquittal of Tarun Tejpal in a 2013 sexual assault case, finding the lower court's judgment 'perverse' and based on 'conjectures and surmises.' The High Court highlighted several errors, including the trial court's failure to consider the victim's testimony credibly, its focus on minor inconsistencies, and its disregard for the victim's right to privacy by allowing disclosure of her identity. The High Court emphasized that a victim's testimony is paramount and minor discrepancies do not negate the core incident. The judgment underscores the need for sensitivity in handling sexual assault cases and adherence to legal principles.
- The Bombay High Court found the trial court's acquittal of Tarun Tejpal 'perverse' and based on speculation, not evidence.
- The High Court criticized the trial court for discrediting the victim's testimony based on minor inconsistencies and for violating her privacy.
- It reiterated that a victim's statement is crucial in sexual assault cases and should not be dismissed due to minor discrepancies.
The digital arrest scam continues to persist, with scammers evolving techniques like SIM boxes, multiple mule accounts, and deepfakes to defraud victims. Despite a drop in reported complaints, low conviction rates indicate gaps in law enforcement and evidence gathering. Many scam operations originate from overseas compounds in Myanmar, the Golden Triangle, and Cambodia, often with alleged official patronage, making investigation and prosecution difficult. The Supreme Court has issued directions for the RBI to circulate SOPs for temporary debit holds, states to notify cybercrime coordination centres, and operationalize e-Zero FIRs, emphasizing continued vigilance and international cooperation.
- Digital arrest scams continue to evolve, utilizing advanced techniques like SIM boxes and deepfakes to deceive victims.
- Scam operations primarily originate from overseas compounds in regions like Myanmar and Cambodia, complicating cross-border investigations.
- Low conviction rates highlight significant challenges in law enforcement, evidence gathering, and victim reporting.
Police use of "less lethal" crowd control measures, such as lathis, tear gas, pellet guns, and shock-batons, in excess or misuse, can lead to severe long-term health consequences, turning peaceful demonstrations into medical crises. The U.S.-based Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) highlights injuries ranging from transient symptoms to lifelong disability and death. Indian law lacks clear regulations on the composition and deployment of these devices, leading to indiscriminate harm. Examples include head injuries from tear gas shells and pellet gun injuries causing vision loss. Experts call for better training, transparency, and accountability to minimize harm.
- Excessive use of "less lethal" crowd control weapons by police can cause severe, long-term health issues and even death.
- Indian law lacks clear regulations on the composition and deployment of crowd control devices, leading to misuse.
- Tear gas, pellet guns, and shock-batons have caused serious injuries, including respiratory issues, burns, head trauma, and vision loss.
The Supreme Court pulled up civic authorities in State capitals for failing to act against illegal constructions and unauthorized use of residential premises for non-residential purposes, despite earlier directions. The court restrained municipal authorities from issuing contradictory orders and warned that any interference would invite contempt proceedings. It directed civic authorities nationwide to identify illegal constructions, clear public spaces of stray cattle, and file compliance affidavits within three weeks. The directions arose from a Tamil Nadu case but were expanded pan-India, with the court noting Bhopal Municipal Corporation's unsealing of premises after a State policy intervention.
- The Supreme Court criticized civic authorities for inaction on illegal constructions and unauthorized commercial use of residential areas.
- The court issued a warning against any interference with its orders, threatening contempt proceedings.
- Nationwide directives were issued to identify illegal constructions, clear public spaces, and file compliance reports.
The Rajya Sabha passed the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, increasing the number of Supreme Court judges from 34 to 38, including the Chief Justice of India. The Bill, which had already passed in the Lok Sabha, is a Money Bill. Opposition members questioned the "hurry" in bringing an Ordinance first and then converting it into an Act. Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal stated that increasing the number of judges is a step towards improving judicial efficiency.
- The Rajya Sabha passed the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill.
- The Bill increases the total number of Supreme Court judges from 34 to 38.
- Opposition members raised concerns about the use of an Ordinance before the Bill.
The Bombay High Court directed social media platforms to remove deepfake and AI-generated videos falsely linking Union Minister Nitin Gadkari to the ethanol blending programme (EBP). The court found the content defamatory, alleging corruption and misuse of office by Gadkari and his family. Gadkari clarified he had no role in the EBP's decision-making, which is managed by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. The court expressed concern over the lack of a mechanism for removing abusive content without judicial intervention, forcing individuals to approach courts for relief.
- Bombay High Court ordered social media platforms to remove defamatory deepfake videos targeting Nitin Gadkari.
- The videos falsely linked Gadkari to the ethanol blending programme and alleged corruption.
- Gadkari clarified his non-involvement in the EBP's decision-making process.
The Union government informed the Supreme Court that a proposal for an umbrella scheme to modernize police forces nationwide has been sent to the Department of Expenditure under the Union Ministry of Finance for in-principle approval. This submission was made during a suo motu proceeding regarding non-functional CCTV cameras at police stations, initiated after a media report from Udaipur, Rajasthan. The scheme aims to cover the modernization of the police force as a whole, not just infrastructure. The court deemed this "significant progress" and requested an affidavit with details within two weeks.
- A proposal for a nationwide police modernisation scheme has been sent to the Finance Ministry for approval.
- The scheme aims to cover the entire police force's modernization, including human resources, not just infrastructure.
- The Supreme Court is monitoring the implementation of CCTV cameras at police stations, a key part of police modernization.
The Supreme Court, hearing a dispute between Shiv Sena factions, clarified that a group of MLAs or MPs cannot override the official directives of their parent political party merely because they hold a majority among elected members. Justice Joymalya Bagchi emphasized that the maturity of a a democracy is measured by the constancy of political parties and their members to their ideology. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal argued that such "mergers" orchestrated by factions for power undermine the electoral process and public mandate. The court aims to strike a balance between the electorate's decision to vote a party and individual representatives' liberty to express genuine disagreement.
- The Supreme Court ruled that a majority of lawmakers cannot defy their parent political party's directives.
- The court linked democratic maturity to the ideological constancy of political parties and their members.
- The case involves a dispute between Shiv Sena factions, highlighting concerns about manipulation and defection.
The Supreme Court has significantly expanded the scope of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (DV Act), to include women in live-in relationships, recognizing them as "aggrieved persons" entitled to protection. The article explains that this landmark interpretation ensures that women in relationships "in the nature of marriage" receive legal safeguards against domestic abuse, even without formal marriage. This ruling addresses the evolving societal norms and the need to protect vulnerable women who might otherwise be left without legal recourse. It underscores the judiciary's role in adapting laws to contemporary social realities and ensuring gender justice.
- The Supreme Court has expanded the Domestic Violence Act, 2005, to include women in live-in relationships.
- Women in relationships "in the nature of marriage" are now recognized as "aggrieved persons" under the DV Act.
- This interpretation provides legal safeguards against domestic abuse for women not formally married.
The arrest of Udhayanidhi Stalin, a prominent DMK leader and Minister, under the Public Safety Act (PSA) for criticizing the TVK government, is seen as a political misstep that could backfire on the ruling party. The article argues that such actions, intended to silence dissent, often amplify the opposition's message and create a perception of authoritarianism. The use of a stringent law like the PSA for political criticism raises concerns about democratic freedoms and the misuse of state power. This move could galvanize opposition forces and alienate voters, potentially harming the DMK's electoral prospects and undermining its image as a democratic party.
- Udhayanidhi Stalin's arrest under the Public Safety Act for criticizing the government is viewed as a political misstep.
- Such actions risk amplifying opposition messages and creating a perception of authoritarianism.
- The use of stringent laws like the PSA for political criticism raises concerns about democratic freedoms.
Despite new legislation, paper leaks and examination irregularities persist, highlighting the need to redefine "paper leak" beyond just printed papers and ensure institutional accountability. The article argues that breaches can occur at any stage of the examination lifecycle—from question setting to result processing—involving digital data, confidential instructions, or insider access. The CBI's closure reports in recent cases, citing no conventional paper leak, underscore the inadequacy of current definitions and investigation protocols. A comprehensive Public Examination Integrity Framework (PEIF) is proposed, emphasizing end-to-end SOPs, conflict-of-interest management, cybersecurity, and continuous monitoring to prevent breaches and restore public confidence.
- The definition of "paper leak" needs to expand beyond printed papers to include digital data, insider access, and other confidential disclosures.
- Examination breaches can occur at any stage of the lifecycle, from question development to result processing.
- Current investigation protocols are inadequate, as evidenced by CBI closure reports despite widespread irregularities.
The article reflects on the Prime Minister's call for forgiveness and a fresh start, arguing that this sentiment needs to be genuinely reflected in the actions of the police and judiciary. It highlights the persistent issues of custodial violence, arbitrary arrests, and delayed justice, which undermine public trust in the legal system. The piece suggests that true forgiveness and reconciliation require systemic reforms, including accountability for law enforcement, adherence to due process, and a focus on rehabilitation over punitive measures. It emphasizes that a mere rhetorical call for forgiveness is insufficient without concrete steps to ensure justice, fairness, and respect for human rights within the criminal justice system.
- The Prime Minister's call for forgiveness must be translated into concrete actions by police and the judiciary.
- Persistent issues like custodial violence, arbitrary arrests, and delayed justice erode public trust in the legal system.
- Systemic reforms are needed, including accountability for law enforcement and adherence to due process.
The article critiques India's film censorship practices, particularly concerning Hollywood films, highlighting a perceived cultural conservatism and double standards. It notes that while Indian cinema has evolved, censorship boards often apply stricter rules to foreign content, especially regarding intimacy and language. The piece argues that this approach, often driven by moral policing, is outdated and inconsistent with global cinematic norms and the viewing habits of a digitally connected audience. It calls for a more mature and nuanced censorship policy that respects artistic freedom and acknowledges the changing social landscape, rather than imposing arbitrary cuts that often lead to ridicule.
- India's film censorship, particularly for Hollywood films, is criticized for cultural conservatism and double standards.
- Stricter rules on intimacy and language are applied to foreign content, often seen as moral policing.
- This outdated approach is inconsistent with global cinematic norms and the viewing habits of a modern audience.
Kerala has decided to remove certain forest areas from Google Maps, particularly those identified as "no-go" zones, to prevent illegal quarrying, encroachment, and other illicit activities. This measure aims to protect ecologically sensitive regions and curb the exploitation of natural resources. The decision comes amidst concerns that publicly accessible mapping data facilitates illegal operations, making it easier for perpetrators to identify vulnerable forest lands. While the move is intended to safeguard biodiversity and enforce environmental regulations, it also raises questions about public access to information and potential implications for legitimate activities in these areas.
- Kerala is removing specific forest areas, especially "no-go" zones, from Google Maps to deter illegal quarrying and encroachment.
- The decision aims to protect ecologically sensitive regions and prevent the exploitation of natural resources.
- Publicly accessible mapping data is believed to facilitate illegal activities by helping perpetrators identify vulnerable forest lands.
The editorial highlights the difficulties faced by pensioners, particularly the elderly, in obtaining life certificates due to bureaucratic hurdles like physical presence and complex documentation. It criticizes the government's failure to implement simpler alternatives like digital life certificates effectively, leading to exclusion from welfare schemes. The article emphasizes that while preventing fraud is important, the process should not penalize genuine beneficiaries. It calls for a more compassionate and efficient system that leverages technology without creating new barriers, ensuring social security benefits reach those who need them most.
- The current process for obtaining life certificates for pensioners is overly bureaucratic and often requires physical presence, causing hardship for the elderly.
- Despite the availability of digital life certificates, their implementation has been inadequate, leading to continued exclusion of eligible beneficiaries.
- The government's focus on preventing fraud should not overshadow the primary goal of ensuring social security benefits reach genuine recipients.
Doxxing victims in India face significant challenges due to the absence of a dedicated law to address the unauthorized publication of personal information online. Victims are forced to navigate a complex and often inadequate patchwork of existing laws, including provisions from the Information Technology Act and the Indian Penal Code. This legal vacuum makes it difficult to seek timely and effective redressal, leading to prolonged suffering and potential re-victimization. The article highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive legal framework that specifically targets doxxing and provides robust protection for victims in the digital age.
- Doxxing victims in India struggle due to the absence of a specific law addressing online publication of personal information.
- Victims must rely on a patchwork of existing laws, which are often inadequate for digital crimes.
- The legal vacuum makes it challenging for victims to seek timely and effective redressal.
The article discusses the Supreme Court's landmark judgment recognizing sex work as a profession, granting sex workers rights and dignity. It explores the implications for their protection under law and access to social welfare schemes. However, it also highlights the challenges in implementation due to existing laws like the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act (ITPA) and deep-rooted societal stigma. The piece emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach that includes legal reforms, rehabilitation programs, and a shift in public perception to ensure sex workers' rights are fully realized.
- The Supreme Court has recognized sex work as a profession, entitling sex workers to dignity and equal protection under law.
- The judgment aims to provide sex workers with access to social welfare schemes and protection from exploitation.
- Challenges remain in implementing the judgment due to existing laws and pervasive societal stigma.
The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, passed by Parliament and assented by the President, aims to curb exam malpractices through time-bound investigations and speedy trials. It mandates investigations to be completed within 60 days and trials within three months in designated fast-track courts. Penalties for general offenses are increased to 5-10 years imprisonment and up to ₹50 lakh fine, with higher penalties for organized crime networks. The Bill also restricts court adjournments and transfers existing cases to new fast-track courts, addressing procedural delays and systemic pendency.
- The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, aims to curb exam malpractices.
- It mandates investigations within 60 days and trials within three months in fast-track courts.
- Penalties for general offenses are 5-10 years imprisonment and up to ₹50 lakh fine.
The National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM) issued a circular clarifying that qualified and registered practitioners of Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and Sowa-Rigpa are legally recognized medical practitioners and cannot be termed "quacks." The clarification was issued due to reports of ISM practitioners being targeted and harassed. NCISM emphasized the distinction between qualified ISM practitioners and unqualified individuals falsely claiming to practice medicine. It also clarified that legal recognition as an ISM practitioner does not automatically grant authority to practice modern (allopathic) medicine, which depends on state laws and court rulings.
- NCISM clarified that qualified and registered ISM practitioners are legally recognized and not "quacks."
- The clarification was prompted by reports of harassment against ISM practitioners.
- It distinguishes between legitimate ISM practitioners and unqualified individuals.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has penalized Zee Entertainment Ltd. and its promoters, Subhash Chandra and Punit Goenka, with a ₹1.5 crore fine and a one-year ban from the stock market. The action was taken for corporate misgovernance, specifically for diverting company assets to benefit promoter-linked entities. SEBI's quasi-judicial authority, N. Murugan, found that ZEEL's Hyderabad property was pledged to borrow ₹726 crore from IHFL without board or audit panel approval, a transaction that Mr. Goenka failed to disclose or prevent despite his knowledge.
- SEBI penalized Zee Entertainment Ltd. and its promoters for corporate misgovernance.
- A fine of ₹1.5 crore was imposed, along with a one-year ban from the stock market.
- The misgovernance involved diverting company assets to benefit promoter-linked entities.
More than 3,000 Group A officers from Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), including gallantry awardees and women officers, have moved the Supreme Court to challenge the Central Armed Police Force (General Administration) Act, 2026. They argue the Act makes it harder for CAPF cadre officers to be promoted to leadership positions by reserving a high percentage of senior posts for IPS officers on deputation. The petitioners seek to declare Sections 3 and 4 of the Act as "ultra vires" and demand implementation of a May 2025 Supreme Court ruling that favored CAPF cadre promotions.
- Over 3,000 CAPF Group A officers have challenged the CAPF (General Administration) Act, 2026, in the Supreme Court.
- The Act is criticized for reserving a high percentage of leadership posts for IPS officers on deputation.
- Petitioners argue this hinders promotion opportunities for CAPF cadre officers.