LAW AND GOVERNANCE
Delhi High Court Directs Judges to Prioritize Criminal Cases Against MPs/MLAs
The Delhi High Court has instructed its judges to give priority to criminal cases involving members of Parliament and legislative assemblies for expeditious disposal. This directive comes in response to 34 pending cases where trial stays have exceeded six months. The court has transferred these cases to ensure their swift adjudication. Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma’s court is designated to handle such cases, but due to the transfer, some matters were rescheduled. Additionally, district courts handling cases against lawmakers are instructed to prioritize matters, starting with those carrying severe punishments. The court has urged judges to avoid unnecessary adjournments, aiming for swift resolution. This directive aligns with the Chief Justice of India’s guidelines to expedite these cases, emphasizing the need for efficient and timely justice delivery.
Calcutta High Court Expresses Concern over Sandeshkhali Allegations
The Calcutta High Court, hearing a suo motu case on sexual assault and land grabbing in Sandeshkhali, expressed deep concern over the allegations. Chief Justice T S Sivagnanam remarked that even if only one percent of the claims were true, it would be highly shameful. The court received a compilation of around 100 affidavits alleging sexual assault, land grabbing, and violence. The state’s Advocate General opposed transferring the cases to the CBI, citing lack of trust in central agencies. The court reserved judgment after hearing arguments. The case highlights the importance of addressing allegations promptly and ensuring the safety and justice for victims.
Supreme Court Petition Advocates for Return to Ballot Papers in Elections
With the Lok Sabha elections nearing, a Supreme Court plea advocates for returning to the use of ballot papers instead of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Filed by Advocate Mehmood Pracha, it contends that EVMs should be an exception, not the rule, emphasizing the sanctity of voting. Pracha argues that the widespread use of EVMs deviates from standard procedure and urges the Election Commission to justify their usage on a case-by-case basis. He cites the Representation of the Peoples Act and Conduct of Election Rules to support the plea. The move raises questions about the reliability and fairness of electronic voting systems.
GOVERNMENT SCHEMES
National Youth Award: Recognizing Excellence in Social Service
(Ministry Of Youth Affairs & Sports)
The National Youth Award, sponsored by the Ministry of Youth Affairs, celebrates the exceptional contributions of Indian youth in social service endeavors.
Objectives:
- Motivate youth for national and social service excellence.
- Foster a sense of community responsibility.
- Recognize outstanding contributions in diverse fields.
Eligibility:
- Indian citizenship.
- Age 15-29 on January 1st of the nominated year.
- Not employed in government services.
- Demonstrated remarkable social work.
Benefits:
- Medal, certificate, and ₹1,00,000 for individuals.
- Medal, certificate, and ₹3,00,000 for voluntary organizations.
Person With Disabilities Scheme In Colleges: Financial Assistance To Visually Challenged Teachers
(Ministry Of Social Justice and Empowerment)
The scheme aims to assist visually impaired permanent teachers in pursuing teaching and research by providing allowances for Readers and funding for Braille books, recorded materials, and other necessary aids.
Benefits:
- Annual allowance of Rs. 36,000.
- Allocation for:
- Payment to Reader.
- Purchase of Braille books/materials.
- Acquisition of recorded materials.
- Other related equipment for research, teaching, and learning.
- Reader’s payment capped at Rs. 50 per hour.
- Reimbursement based on actual expenditure, up to Rs. 36,000 annually.
- Submission of original bills to colleges, not required for UGC.
Eligibility:
- Visually impaired permanent teachers in UGC-recognized colleges in India under Sections 2(f) and 12B of the UGC Act.
Source-
READ MORE- 4th APRIL 2024
