An opinion piece argues against the Chief Justice of India's (CJI) characterization of the Supreme Court Handbook on Combating Gender Stereotypes as "technical" and "Harvard-oriented." Released in 2023, the handbook aims to identify and replace gender-stereotyping language in judicial reasoning, highlight incorrect reasoning patterns, and compile relevant Supreme Court precedents. The author contends the handbook is firmly grounded in Indian realities and precedent, not foreign concepts. While acknowledging the need for improvement and practical training for judges, the article emphasizes that the handbook is a crucial institutional acknowledgment of how language can perpetuate or dismantle inequality, and its significance should not be diminished.
- The Supreme Court Handbook on Combating Gender Stereotypes, released in 2023, aims to eliminate gender-stereotyping language in judicial reasoning.
- The author argues that the handbook is rooted in Indian precedent and courtroom realities, not "Harvard-oriented" as suggested by the CJI.
- The handbook provides alternative language, explains incorrect reasoning patterns, and compiles Supreme Court decisions rejecting stereotypes.
The Supreme Court reiterated its long-held principle that Scheduled Caste (SC) protections and special provisions are available only to those practicing Hinduism, Sikhism, and Buddhism. This judgment arose from a Christian pastor's plea for SC/ST Act protection. The Court affirmed that an SC member converting out of these three religions ceases to be an SC. Historically, SC definition initially included only Hindus, later extended to Sikhs (1956) and Buddhists (1990). The editorial notes that while theological and constitutional arguments support this distinction, the exclusion of Christian and Muslim converts, who still face discrimination, remains a contested and politically surcharged issue, currently under review by a commission.
- The Supreme Court reaffirmed that Scheduled Caste benefits are limited to those practicing Hinduism, Sikhism, and Buddhism.
- Conversion out of these specified religions results in the loss of SC status, as per the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950.
- The original SC definition for Hindus was extended to Sikhs in 1956 and Buddhists in 1990, reflecting historical and political realities.
A study by Toxics Link revealed that 84% of 560 surveyed locations across Bhubaneswar, Delhi, Guwahati, and Mumbai continue to use banned single-use plastic items, three years after the nationwide prohibition. The report highlights significant enforcement gaps, with Bhubaneswar showing the highest non-compliance at 89%. Informal markets and small commercial establishments exhibit widespread use of banned items, attributing it to high customer demand and the higher cost of alternatives. The study calls for stronger national action, robust enforcement, and coordinated regulatory efforts to ensure compliance.
- 84% of surveyed locations in four major Indian cities continue to use banned single-use plastic items, indicating a significant failure in enforcement.
- Bhubaneswar recorded the highest non-compliance at 89%, followed by Delhi (86%), Mumbai (85%), and Guwahati (76%).
- Informal markets and small commercial establishments are major violators, citing high customer demand and costly alternatives as reasons.
A Supreme Court-constituted Advisory Committee, headed by former Delhi High Court judge Justice Asha Menon, has recommended to the Government of India that the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026, be withdrawn. The committee stated that the Bill's proposal to "deny self-identification" of gender goes against the Supreme Court's 2014 NALSA verdict. The chairperson called the amendment a "great shock" and a "tremendous setback" to efforts to mainstream transgender communities, as it removes the right to self-perceived gender identity and introduces a medical board's nod for certificates.
- A Supreme Court-constituted Advisory Committee has recommended withdrawing the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026.
- The committee argues that the Bill's denial of "self-identification" of gender contradicts the 2014 NALSA v. Union of India Supreme Court verdict.
- The Bill proposes to remove the right to a self-perceived gender identity and mandates a medical board's approval for transgender certificates.
The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026, is criticized for narrowing the definition of "transgender person" and removing the right to self-perceived gender identity. The Bill mandates medical board approval for certificates and requires hospitals to report surgeries, raising privacy concerns. It conflates intersex and transgender identities, ignoring international standards, and perpetuates exploitative structures like the hijra jamath-gharana system. The article argues the Bill lacks intersectionality, failing to address issues of caste, disability, poverty, or civil rights like marriage and adoption, thus undermining human rights and failing to provide a scientific, culturally grounded approach.
- The Transgender Persons Amendment Bill, 2026, narrows the definition of "transgender person" and removes the right to self-perceived gender identity.
- The Bill mandates medical board approval for transgender certificates and requires hospitals to report surgeries, raising privacy concerns.
- It is criticized for conflating intersex and transgender identities, violating international standards, and failing to address the specific needs of intersex individuals.
Harish Rana, who had been in a persistent vegetative state for 13 years, passed away at AIIMS, Delhi, days after the Supreme Court allowed the withdrawal of clinically-assisted nutrition and hydration (CANH). This judgment was the first of its kind in India, permitting passive euthanasia in specific circumstances. Rana, 32, had sustained 100% quadriplegic disability after a fall in 2013. His family, who had welcomed the court's decision, stating that no parent wanted to see their son suffer, donated his corneas and heart valves after his death. The case highlights the legal and ethical complexities surrounding end-of-life care and the right to die with dignity.
- Harish Rana, in a vegetative state for 13 years, passed away after the Supreme Court allowed the withdrawal of clinically-assisted nutrition and hydration (CANH).
- The Supreme Court's judgment was a landmark decision, being the first of its kind in India to permit passive euthanasia in such circumstances.
- Rana had suffered 100% quadriplegic disability due to a fall in 2013.
The Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice Surya Kant, ruled that systemic bias and long-held presumptions against women officers in the armed forces created an uneven playing field, hindering their chances for permanent commission (PC). The court upheld the right of women officers to equal opportunity, treatment, and dignity, granting them permanent commission and pensionary benefits. It found that Annual Confidential Reports (ACRs) of Short Service Commission Women Officers (SSCWOs) were graded casually, leading to lower scores compared to male counterparts who were eligible for PC. The court rejected the argument of vacancy caps, stating that the inclusion of SSCWOs for PC is a constitutional obligation, not a matter of discretion.
- The Supreme Court identified systemic bias and unequal opportunity structures against women officers in the armed forces.
- The court upheld the right of women officers to permanent commission and pensionary benefits, ensuring equal opportunity and dignity.
- Annual Confidential Reports (ACRs) for Short Service Commission Women Officers (SSCWOs) were found to be casually graded, disadvantaging them in career progression.
The Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2025 by Transparency International shows a global decline in perceived integrity, with the average score dropping to 42 out of 100. India ranks 91st out of 182 countries with a score of 39, showing stagnation over the past decade despite economic growth. Corruption incurs significant economic costs, estimated at 0.5% to 1.5% of India's GDP annually, diverting resources from crucial sectors. India's complex compliance architecture, with numerous imprisonment provisions in business regulations, also contributes to rent-seeking. While challenges exist, positive trends like digital public infrastructure, e-procurement, and GST network have reduced leakages and increased formalization, demonstrating that technology can reduce discretion.
- The Corruption Perceptions Index 2025 indicates a global decline in perceived integrity, with India stagnating at a score of 39 and rank 91.
- Corruption imposes significant economic costs, estimated to be between 0.5% and 1.5% of India's GDP annually, hindering development.
- India's complex regulatory framework, including numerous imprisonment provisions in business regulations, creates opportunities for rent-seeking.
The Supreme Court ruled that a person professing a religion other than Hinduism, Buddhism, or Sikhism cannot be considered a Scheduled Caste (SC) member. Conversion to any other religion results in immediate and complete loss of SC status, regardless of birth. The court invoked Clause 3 of the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950, which mandates this religious restriction. The ruling came in an appeal filed by Chinthada Anand, a Hindu-Madiga (SC) convert to Christianity, whose criminal proceedings under the SC/ST Act were quashed. The court clarified that "profess" implies public declaration and practice of a religion, not just personal belief, and outlined conditions for re-conversion.
- The Supreme Court ruled that SC status is limited to individuals professing Hinduism, Buddhism, or Sikhism.
- Conversion to any other religion leads to an immediate and complete loss of Scheduled Caste status, irrespective of birth.
- The judgment invoked Clause 3 of the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950, which explicitly states this religious restriction.
The article celebrates a decade of India's TB Champion initiative, which empowers individuals with lived experience of tuberculosis (TB) to support others and combat stigma. Launched in 2016, the program leverages the voices of TB survivors to educate communities, advocate for patient rights, and improve treatment adherence. These champions, often former patients, share their stories, provide peer support, and help navigate the healthcare system. The initiative has been crucial in fostering a sense of community, reducing isolation, and challenging misconceptions about TB. By amplifying patient voices, the program contributes significantly to India's efforts to eliminate TB by 2025, demonstrating the power of community-led interventions in public health.
- India's TB Champion initiative empowers TB survivors to support other patients and reduce stigma.
- The program, launched in 2016, utilizes lived experiences to educate and advocate for patient rights.
- TB Champions provide peer support, share stories, and assist patients in navigating healthcare.
The article highlights that at least one-third of tuberculosis (TB) patients in India experience symptoms of depression or anxiety, underscoring the need for integrated mental health support in TB care. The psychological burden of TB, including stigma, isolation, and treatment side effects, contributes to these mental health challenges. Untreated mental health issues can negatively impact treatment adherence and overall outcomes. The article advocates for routine screening for depression and anxiety, early intervention, and accessible mental health services within TB programs. Integrating mental health care into TB management is crucial for improving patient well-being, treatment success, and achieving TB elimination goals, especially given the high prevalence of mental health disorders in India.
- A significant proportion (at least one-third) of TB patients in India suffer from depression or anxiety.
- The psychological impact of TB, including stigma and isolation, contributes to mental health issues.
- Untreated mental health conditions can adversely affect TB treatment adherence and outcomes.
The article stresses the critical importance of integrating nutritional support into tuberculosis (TB) care, particularly in India, where malnutrition is a significant risk factor. Malnutrition weakens the immune system, increasing susceptibility to TB and worsening disease outcomes. Studies show that nutritional support reduces mortality, improves treatment adherence, and prevents relapse. India's Nikshay Poshan Yojana, providing ₹500/month for nutritional support, is a step in the right direction. However, challenges remain in ensuring consistent delivery and addressing the broader social determinants of health. A comprehensive approach that includes food security, dietary counseling, and community-level interventions is essential for effective TB control and achieving elimination goals.
- Malnutrition is a major risk factor for TB, increasing susceptibility and worsening outcomes.
- Nutritional support significantly improves TB treatment adherence, reduces mortality, and prevents relapse.
- India's Nikshay Poshan Yojana provides financial aid for nutritional support to TB patients.
The article advocates for a shift from a disease-specific approach to person-centered care in tuberculosis (TB) management, emphasizing holistic support beyond medical treatment. This integrated approach addresses co-morbidities like diabetes, malnutrition, and mental health issues, which significantly impact TB outcomes. It highlights the importance of community engagement, social protection, and addressing social determinants of health. The article notes that India, with its high TB burden, has made strides in this direction by integrating services and providing nutritional support through schemes like Nikshay Poshan Yojana. The goal is to ensure comprehensive care that improves adherence, reduces relapse, and prevents catastrophic costs for patients and their families.
- Person-centered care for TB involves holistic support beyond just medical treatment.
- Addressing co-morbidities like diabetes, malnutrition, and mental health is crucial for effective TB management.
- Community engagement and social protection are vital components of person-centered care.
The Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) in Meghalaya approved an amendment mandating that only Scheduled Tribe members can contest its polls. This decision effectively ends over seven decades of non-tribal participation in GHADC elections and follows weeks of unrest and ethnic tensions, which included protests where two people died. The State government had deferred the April 10 elections and extended the council's tenure to allow for these rule amendments. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma hailed the resolution as a "historic milestone," emphasizing its role in safeguarding the rights and self-governance of tribal communities under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
- The GHADC in Meghalaya amended its rules to restrict election candidacy exclusively to Scheduled Tribe members.
- This change ends non-tribal participation in council elections, a practice that had existed for over seven decades.
- The decision comes after weeks of ethnic tensions and protests, resulting in two deaths.
Despite projections for one of the hottest summers, the Delhi government has not yet declared a heat action plan to mitigate extreme heat and humidity impacts, especially on vulnerable populations. Delhi recorded 35.7°C on March 7, the highest in the first week of the month in 50 years. Last year's plan, prepared by DDMA and NDMA, recommended revising guidelines and undertaking long-term measures like "cool roofs" and identifying heat hotspots. However, officials indicate this year's plan is delayed due to pending meetings with departments. Critics note a lack of improvement in working conditions for laborers and poor implementation of long-term actions like cool roofs.
- Delhi government has not yet announced its heat action plan for the upcoming harsh summer.
- Delhi experienced a record high temperature of 35.7°C in early March.
- Previous recommendations included revising guidelines, promoting "cool roofs," and identifying heat hotspots.
The Union government plans to introduce an amendment Bill proposing a delimitation exercise based on the 2011 Census to implement the Women's Reservation Act, 2023, before the 2029 Lok Sabha elections. This move aims to increase Lok Sabha seats from 543 to 816, with 273 seats (33%) reserved for women. The amendments could be brought in during the ongoing Budget Session or a Special Session. States, particularly Southern States, have expressed concerns about maintaining their existing proportion of seats, fearing a loss of representation due to population control success. The government intends to maintain the pro rata basis for seat allocation to address these concerns.
- An amendment Bill for delimitation based on the 2011 Census is planned to implement the Women's Reservation Act, 2023.
- The delimitation aims to increase Lok Sabha seats from 543 to 816, reserving 33% (273 seats) for women.
- The government intends to introduce the Bill before the 2029 Lok Sabha elections.
The article debates the feasibility of compulsory voting in India, concluding it is neither desirable nor constitutionally sound, despite its potential to increase voter turnout. While voting is essential for democracy, it is not a fundamental or legal duty in India. Implementing compulsory voting would face practical difficulties, impose harsh penalties (as seen in other countries), and potentially violate the fundamental right to freedom of expression under Article 19(1). Instead, the focus should be on fostering voter enthusiasm through innovative campaigns, improving accessibility for migrant workers, and exploring secure remote voting technologies to enhance participation.
- Compulsory voting is not a fundamental or legal duty in India and raises constitutional concerns regarding freedom of expression.
- Practical difficulties and harsh penalties associated with compulsory voting make it undesirable and unfeasible for India.
- The Law Commission's 255th report indicated a 7% increase in turnout but linked it to strict enforcement of penalties.
India is witnessing a concerning trend of digital censorship, where social media accounts of activists and journalists are blocked, often for criticizing the government. The government utilizes emergency powers under the IT Rules, expanding the definition of "threat to public order." Critically, procedural safeguards under Section 69A of the IT Act 2000, which require reasoned orders and judicial review, are being diluted through Rule 16 of the 2009 Blocking Rules, making blocking proceedings confidential. This lack of transparency and executive-only review undermines the constitutional right to free speech and judicial oversight, effectively creating a "digital exile" for critics and signaling a move towards arbitrary censorship.
- Digital censorship in India is increasing, with social media accounts blocked for criticizing the government.
- The government uses emergency powers under IT Rules, expanding "threat to public order" definitions.
- Procedural safeguards of Section 69A of IT Act 2000 are diluted by Rule 16 of 2009 Blocking Rules, making blocking orders confidential.
India's humanitarian assistance, particularly food aid, to Afghanistan serves as a powerful message of solidarity and a crucial diplomatic tool amidst the Taliban regime. Despite the political complexities, India has consistently provided aid, demonstrating its commitment to the Afghan people and maintaining a presence in the region. This aid is vital for addressing the severe food insecurity in Afghanistan, often facilitated through UN agencies. Beyond immediate relief, India's efforts aim to foster goodwill and sustain long-term ties, underscoring its role as a responsible regional power and its 'neighbourhood first' policy, even in challenging geopolitical circumstances.
- India's food aid to Afghanistan is a powerful message of solidarity and a diplomatic tool.
- Despite the Taliban regime, India continues to provide humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people.
- The aid addresses severe food insecurity and is often facilitated through UN agencies.
An interfaith Iftar party held on a boat in Kashi is highlighted as a powerful symbol of communal harmony and mutual respect, challenging divisive narratives. The event, bringing together people from different faiths, embodies the inclusive spirit of Kashi and the Ganga, which have historically been centers of diverse cultural and religious traditions. It serves as a reminder that shared humanity and peaceful coexistence are integral to India's ethos, countering attempts to polarize communities. Such initiatives are crucial for fostering understanding and strengthening the social fabric, promoting unity over division.
- An interfaith Iftar party in Kashi symbolizes communal harmony and mutual respect.
- The event embodies the inclusive spirit of Kashi and the Ganga, historically centers of diverse traditions.
- It counters divisive narratives and promotes shared humanity and peaceful coexistence.
The Supreme Court has reiterated its strong condemnation of caste-based discrimination, particularly in the context of access to public resources like the Ganga river. The court's observations underscore the historical and ongoing challenges of untouchability and social exclusion, emphasizing that such practices violate fundamental human rights. It highlights the constitutional mandate to eradicate discrimination and promote social justice, urging society to move beyond archaic prejudices. The ruling reinforces the judiciary's role in upholding equality and ensuring that all citizens, regardless of caste, have equal access to public spaces and resources, aligning with the spirit of Article 17.
- The Supreme Court strongly condemns caste-based discrimination, especially regarding access to public resources like the Ganga.
- The court emphasizes that untouchability and social exclusion violate fundamental human rights.
- The ruling reinforces the constitutional mandate to eradicate discrimination and promote social justice.
The Supreme Court has intervened in India's surrogacy laws to address the rights of biological mothers, particularly concerning the use of donor gametes. The court's observations highlight the challenges faced by couples seeking surrogacy due to restrictive regulations and the need for a more inclusive framework. The Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, and its subsequent rules have been criticized for creating barriers, especially for those unable to produce their own gametes. The SC's stance emphasizes the right to parenthood under Article 21, pushing for amendments that balance ethical considerations with the fundamental rights of individuals.
- The Supreme Court is addressing the rights of biological mothers in surrogacy, especially regarding donor gametes.
- Existing surrogacy laws, like the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, are criticized for being overly restrictive.
- The SC emphasizes the right to parenthood under Article 21, advocating for more inclusive regulations.
The land acquisition process for the Great Nicobar project faces severe criticism for its undemocratic nature and disregard for tribal rights. Concerns have been raised regarding the displacement of indigenous communities like the Shompen and Nicobarese, and the potential environmental damage. Critics argue that the project lacks transparency, adequate consultation, and fair compensation, undermining the principles of free, prior, and informed consent. The NITI Aayog report, which initiated the project, is also under scrutiny for its recommendations, highlighting a conflict between development aspirations and the protection of vulnerable communities and ecosystems.
- The Great Nicobar project's land acquisition is criticized for being undemocratic and violating tribal rights.
- Concerns include displacement of Shompen and Nicobarese tribes and potential environmental harm.
- The process is accused of lacking transparency, consultation, and fair compensation.
The article highlights the historical significance of the Mahad Satyagraha, led by B.R. Ambedkar on March 20, 1927, where thousands of untouchables drank water from a public tank, asserting their right to equality. This act, predating the Salt Satyagraha, challenged internal societal sickness and demanded freedom from fellow Indians. The subsequent decade-long legal battle, which Ambedkar won in 1937, underscored the deep-rooted resistance to untouchability. The author argues that the Mahad Satyagraha's principles are enshrined in the Indian Constitution (Articles 15 and 17) and calls for its centenary in 2027 to be a year of honest reckoning on whether true equality and dignity have been achieved for all, especially the marginalized.
- The Mahad Satyagraha, led by B.R. Ambedkar on March 20, 1927, was a pivotal moment in India's fight against untouchability, asserting the right of depressed classes to access public resources.
- Unlike the Salt Satyagraha which challenged external British rule, Mahad Satyagraha confronted internal societal discrimination and demanded equality from fellow Indians.
- The decade-long legal battle following the Satyagraha, culminating in Ambedkar's victory in 1937, revealed the profound resistance to social reform.