India's Kerala High Court has prohibited the bursting of firecrackers at odd hours at&nbsp;religious spots citing the absence of any religious commandment to do so, media reports said.&nbsp;Justice Amit Rawal, presiding over a single judge bench, has ordered all District Collectors in the state to conduct raids in religious places with the assistance of the Commissioners of Police.

The court ordered the confiscation of illegally stored firecrackers and issued clear instructions prohibiting the bursting of firecrackers in religious places at unconventional times.

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"I...direct the Deputy Collector with the Assistance of the Commissioner of Police, Cochin and other districts, to conduct raids in all religious places and take into possession of the crackers illegally stored in all religious places and issue instructions that henceforth onwards no crackers shall be burst in religious places at odd time as prima facie there is no commandment in any of the holy book to burst crackers for pleasing the God," the court reportedly observed.

<h2>Petition seeking ban&nbsp;</h2>

The court's decision was in response to a petition seeking the court's intervention in preventing the use of firecrackers in religious places across Kerala. The petitioners argued that explosive licenses, issued by the District Collector under Explosive Rules, have been granted to a few temple authorities.

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The court concurred with the petitioners, stating that such licenses should not be granted because the use of firecrackers leads to noise and air pollution and disturbs the peace.

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The judges said that they had heard firecrackers being set off past midnight and deemed it necessary to take action over this. The court has warned that if any instances of firecracker use in violation of the order are reported, contempt proceedings will be initiated. According to Live Law, the matter is scheduled for further consideration on November 24.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Kerala High Court has prohibited the bursting of firecrackers at odd hours at religious spots citing the absence of any religious commandment to do so, media reports said.

India's Kerala High Court has prohibited the bursting of firecrackers at odd hours at religious spots citing the absence of any religious commandment to do so, media reports said. Justice Amit Rawal, presiding over a single judge bench, has ordered all District Collectors in the state to conduct raids in religious places with the assistance of the Commissioners of Police. The court ordered the confiscation of illegally stored firecrackers and issued clear instructions prohibiting the bursting of firecrackers in religious places at unconventional times. Also Read | PM Modi holds telephonic conversation with UAE President over ongoing situation in West Asia "I...direct the Deputy Collector with the Assistance of the Commissioner of Police, Cochin and other districts, to conduct raids in all religious places and take into possession of the crackers illegally stored in all religious places and issue instructions that henceforth onwards no crackers shall be burst in religious places at odd time as prima facie there is no commandment in any of the holy book to burst crackers for pleasing the God," the court reportedly observed. Petition seeking ban The court's decision was in response to a petition seeking the court's intervention in preventing the use of firecrackers in religious places across Kerala. The petitioners argued that explosive licenses, issued by the District Collector under Explosive Rules, have been granted to a few temple authorities. Also Read | Around 97,000 Indians held while unlawfully sneaking into US between Oct 2022 to Sept 2023: Report The court concurred with the petitioners, stating that such licenses should not be granted because the use of firecrackers leads to noise and air pollution and disturbs the peace. Watch | What does Apple's warning of 'state-sponsored attack' mean, experts explain × The judges said that they had heard firecrackers being set off past midnight and deemed it necessary to take action over this. The court has warned that if any instances of firecracker use in violation of the order are reported, contempt proceedings will be initiated. According to Live Law, the matter is scheduled for further consideration on November 24. (With inputs from agencies)

No holy text prescribes it: Kerala HC bans firecracker bursting at religious spots at odd hours

Ahead of the planned return of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to Pakistan, the Islamabad High Court has granted him protective bail in two corruption cases until October 24th. Nawaz Sharif is slated to return on October 21st after spending over four years in self-imposed exile.

Nawaz Sharif granted bail, his arrest warrants suspended

The high court in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, on Friday (Sep 29), upheld the convictions of over 200 people and sentenced them to various prison terms for committing atrocities on the residents of Vachathi village in the year 1992 which included heinous crimes like cruelty, rape and looting village properties.

The convicts included officials from the forest, police as well as revenue departments of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

Justice P Velmurugan, on Friday, also ordered the government to provide an immediate compensation of Rs 10 lakh each to all the 18 women who were victims of sexual assault during the infamous incident.

He further directed the government to recover 50 per cent of the amount from the accused who committed the offence.

Dismissing appeals from the accused, Justice Velmurugan said, "In view of the above discussion and for the foregoing reasons, this court finds all the accused have committed the charged offences. There are no merits in these appeals. All the criminal appeals stand dismissed as devoid of merits. The trial court is directed to secure the custody of the accused to serve the remaining period of sentence, if any". &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bengaluru-city-comes-to-standstill-amidst-shutdown-call-over-cauvery-water-sharing-50-arrested-640773">India: Bengaluru city comes to standstill amidst shutdown call over Cauvery water sharing, 50 arrested</a>

The court also directed the state government to either provide permanent jobs to the 18 victims or their family members or help them with self-employment opportunities for their livelihood.

The judge further directed the state government to take strict action against the then District Collector, the then Superintendent of Police and the then-District Forest Officer during the pertinent period.

<h2>Vachathi village incident</h2>

The incident took place on Jun 20, 1992, when the police teams raided the village along with forest and revenue officials who were searching for smuggled sandalwood at Vachathi village in Dharmapuri district. The assault on the villagers continued for about three days who were considered as "silent supporters" of notorious sandalwood smuggler Veerappan.

In the year 2011, a lower court in Dharmapuri had convicted and sentenced 215 men to prison terms ranging from 1 to 10 years.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The high court in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, on Friday (Sep 29), upheld the convictions of over 200 people and sentenced them to various prison terms for committing atrocities on the residents of Vachathi village in the year 1992 which included heinous crimes like cruelty, rape and looting village properties.

The high court in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, on Friday (Sep 29), upheld the convictions of over 200 people and sentenced them to various prison terms for committing atrocities on the residents of Vachathi village in the year 1992 which included heinous crimes like cruelty, rape and looting village properties. The convicts included officials from the forest, police as well as revenue departments of Tamil Nadu. Justice P Velmurugan, on Friday, also ordered the government to provide an immediate compensation of Rs 10 lakh each to all the 18 women who were victims of sexual assault during the infamous incident. He further directed the government to recover 50 per cent of the amount from the accused who committed the offence. Dismissing appeals from the accused, Justice Velmurugan said, "In view of the above discussion and for the foregoing reasons, this court finds all the accused have committed the charged offences. There are no merits in these appeals. All the criminal appeals stand dismissed as devoid of merits. The trial court is directed to secure the custody of the accused to serve the remaining period of sentence, if any". Also read: India: Bengaluru city comes to standstill amidst shutdown call over Cauvery water sharing, 50 arrested The court also directed the state government to either provide permanent jobs to the 18 victims or their family members or help them with self-employment opportunities for their livelihood. The judge further directed the state government to take strict action against the then District Collector, the then Superintendent of Police and the then-District Forest Officer during the pertinent period. Vachathi village incident The incident took place on Jun 20, 1992, when the police teams raided the village along with forest and revenue officials who were searching for smuggled sandalwood at Vachathi village in Dharmapuri district. The assault on the villagers continued for about three days who were considered as "silent supporters" of notorious sandalwood smuggler Veerappan. In the year 2011, a lower court in Dharmapuri had convicted and sentenced 215 men to prison terms ranging from 1 to 10 years. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Madras High Court upholds convictions of over 200 people in 1992 Vachathi assault and rape case

In a major setback to Pakistan's army, the Lahore High Court has struck down Punjab interim government's decision to hand over more than 45,000 acres of land to the military.

Pakistan: Lahore HC overrules land deal between Punjab government and Pakistan Army

As ministers and the Covid investigative panel debate turning over the evidence, which people are eager to see, the UK is awaiting a major High Court judgement on the former prime minister Boris Johnson's WhatsApp chats and diary entries.

UK awaits High Court's decision on ex-PM Boris Johnson's Whatsapp chats

Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan was on Friday granted two-week bail by Islamabad High Court in all lawsuits faced by him, including the Al-Qadir Trust case.

Khan was granted bail by a division bench comprising Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb and Justice Saman Rafat Imtiaz in the Al-Qadir Trust case after the bail plea of the PTI chief was heard at courtroom No.2.

The court further stated that the authorities cannot arrest Khan in any case registered after May 9 till May 17.&nbsp;

The bail was granted a day after Khan's arrest from the IHC premises was termed as “invalid and unlawful" by the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

"The court has granted Imran Khan a two weeks interim bail and has directed the authorities not to arrest him in the (graft) case," said Khan's lawyer Khawaja Haris while speaking to reporters.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Khan's lawyer also said that a plea has been submitted by them for the handover of Khan's mobile phone and for providing&nbsp;bulletproof vehicles to the leader for his security.&nbsp;

PTI lawyers gathered in large numbers in front of the court before the hearing and shouted "Khan your devotees are countless" and "the lawyers are alive", as the leader raised his fist above his head. However, the legal troubles for Khan don't seem to end soon.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/supreme-court-of-pakistan-declares-ex-prime-minister-imran-khans-arrest-unlawful-591350">Supreme Court of Pakistan declares ex-prime minister Imran Khan's arrest unlawful</a>

Pakistan's interior minister has pledged to ensure that Khan is re-arrested. Since getting ousted from power in April 2022, Khan became tangled in multiple legal cases.&nbsp;

Khan was arrested in the Al-Qadir Trust case on Tuesday from the Islamabad High Court premises when he was just making a regular court appearance in the capital.

His sudden arrest was followed by two days of chaos as thousands of his supporters rampaged through cities in protest, blocking roads and setting buildings on fire.&nbsp;

According to the police and hospitals, at least nine people were killed in the unrest.&nbsp;

In the wake of escalating tensions within the country over Khan's arrest, Islamabad Police on Friday tweeted, "Organised propaganda is being done against the law enforcement agencies under planning. Agitated protesters are present at several places with stones, slingshots, sticks and petrol bombs. The situation in Islamabad is peaceful and roads are open. Wherever the protesters tried to block the road, immediate action was taken."&nbsp;

"Troops of the Pakistan Army are patrolling different highways. Citizens are requested to cooperate with the police in establishing public order. Rangers, Punjab Police, FC and Islamabad Police are there to maintain public order. Punjab Police has been present for assistance in previous appearances as well," it added. &nbsp;

WATCH | Pakistan government: If released, we'll re-arrest Imran Khan

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On Thursday, the arrest of Imran Khan was called “invalid and unlawful" by the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial had stated that the arrest was unlawful because it happened inside the court premises, where Khan had reached with an intent to file a bail application.&nbsp;

"Your arrest was invalid, so the whole process needs to be backtracked," he said to Khan.

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Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan was on Friday granted two-week bail by Islamabad High Court in all lawsuits faced by him, including the Al-Qadir Trust case.

Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan was on Friday granted two-week bail by Islamabad High Court in all lawsuits faced by him, including the Al-Qadir Trust case. Khan was granted bail by a division bench comprising Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb and Justice Saman Rafat Imtiaz in the Al-Qadir Trust case after the bail plea of the PTI chief was heard at courtroom No.2. The court further stated that the authorities cannot arrest Khan in any case registered after May 9 till May 17. The bail was granted a day after Khan's arrest from the IHC premises was termed as “invalid and unlawful" by the Supreme Court. "The court has granted Imran Khan a two weeks interim bail and has directed the authorities not to arrest him in the (graft) case," said Khan's lawyer Khawaja Haris while speaking to reporters. Khan's lawyer also said that a plea has been submitted by them for the handover of Khan's mobile phone and for providing bulletproof vehicles to the leader for his security. PTI lawyers gathered in large numbers in front of the court before the hearing and shouted "Khan your devotees are countless" and "the lawyers are alive", as the leader raised his fist above his head. However, the legal troubles for Khan don't seem to end soon. ALSO READ | Supreme Court of Pakistan declares ex-prime minister Imran Khan's arrest unlawful Pakistan's interior minister has pledged to ensure that Khan is re-arrested. Since getting ousted from power in April 2022, Khan became tangled in multiple legal cases. Khan was arrested in the Al-Qadir Trust case on Tuesday from the Islamabad High Court premises when he was just making a regular court appearance in the capital. His sudden arrest was followed by two days of chaos as thousands of his supporters rampaged through cities in protest, blocking roads and setting buildings on fire. According to the police and hospitals, at least nine people were killed in the unrest. In the wake of escalating tensions within the country over Khan's arrest, Islamabad Police on Friday tweeted, "Organised propaganda is being done against the law enforcement agencies under planning. Agitated protesters are present at several places with stones, slingshots, sticks and petrol bombs. The situation in Islamabad is peaceful and roads are open. Wherever the protesters tried to block the road, immediate action was taken." "Troops of the Pakistan Army are patrolling different highways. Citizens are requested to cooperate with the police in establishing public order. Rangers, Punjab Police, FC and Islamabad Police are there to maintain public order. Punjab Police has been present for assistance in previous appearances as well," it added. WATCH | Pakistan government: If released, we'll re-arrest Imran Khan On Thursday, the arrest of Imran Khan was called “invalid and unlawful" by the Supreme Court. Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial had stated that the arrest was unlawful because it happened inside the court premises, where Khan had reached with an intent to file a bail application. "Your arrest was invalid, so the whole process needs to be backtracked," he said to Khan. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Islamabad High Court grants two-week bail to Imran Khan in all ongoing cases

Imran Khan, the former prime minister of Pakistan, was granted two-week bail by the Islamabad High Court a few days after his detention on corruption-related accusations by an anti-graft organisation. Imran Khan's immediate release was ordered by the Supreme Court on Thursday, which deemed his arrest to be "unlawful" and "illegal." Khan's arrest sparked widespread protests across Pakistan, and as his fans went on the rampage and looted and destroyed government facilities, the police tightened their prohibitory orders. Following nearly 2,000 arrests and at least eight fatalities, the administration enlisted the army to assist in bringing the situation back under control.

Pakistan: Islamabad High Court grants two-week bail to Imran Khan in all cases

Kerala High Court on Friday refused to put a ban on Sudipto Sen's controversial film The Kerala Story. A division bench of the Kerala High Court rejected a petition against the release of the controversial film. The petition sought a directive to cancel the ‘A’ certification granted to the movie by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).&nbsp;

The Kerala High Court division bench refused to stay the screening of the film The Kerala Story, whose trailer caused much uproar.&nbsp;The film's trailer claimed that tens of thousands of girls from non-Muslim communities have disappeared from Kerala and joined terror groups such as Islamic State. 
 
After watching the trailer of the movie, a division bench of Justices N Nagaresh and Sophy Thomas said that it does not contain anything against Islam or Muslims as a whole but was about ISIS. 
 
“What is against Islam? There is no allegation against the religion. The allegation is against ISIS,” the bench remarked. 
 
“Going through the trailers of the movie, we find it does not contain anything offensive to any particular community as a whole. None of the petitioners have watched movie,” the Court noted in its order, said a Bar and Bench report.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baps-swaminarayan-temple-vandalised-in-sydney-by-khalistan-supporters-reports-589067">BAPS Swaminarayan temple vandalised in Sydney by Khalistan supporters: Reports</a>

The bench remarked that&nbsp;Hindu sanyasis are depicted as smugglers or rapists in&nbsp;umpteen movies but it has not led to any adverse consequences. 
 
"There are umpteen number of movies where Hindu sanyasis are depicted as smugglers or rapists. Nothing happens, no one protests. Many such Hindi and Malayalam films are there," said Justice Nagaresh. 
 
After hearing all parties at length, the court&nbsp;refused to the stay the release of the film and further noted that the CBFC has examined the movie and found it suitable for public exhibition. 
 
"As provided by guidelines, the board has considered and examined the movie. From the statement of the Deputy Solicitor General, the producers have published a disclaimer that the film is fictionalised and dramatised. We are not inclined to pass an interim order restraining exhibition of film," the court said. 
 
Rubbishing the claims made in the movie that about 32,000 women were converted and sent for terror missions, the petitioners termed it fictitious that has no connection with reality.&nbsp;The producer of "The Kerala Story" told Kerala High Court that the teaser of the movie, which claimed that over 32,000 women from Kerala were recruited to ISIS, will be removed from their social media accounts. High Court has recorded the statement, reported Live Law.&nbsp;

Those who are now opposing the movie call it incredulous. However, the makers of the film are refusing to back down. The bench consisted of N Nagaresh and Mohammed Nias C P.&nbsp;

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This comes as Indian Supreme Court on Thursday refused to entertain a plea which sought to change the disclaimer of the movie from 'true story' to 'fiction'.&nbsp;

Earlier, Indian Supreme Court urged the petitioners to approach Kerala High Court for the matter.&nbsp;The petitioners also claimed that the statements used for the movie teaser will destroy the secular fabric of the state.

Watch | China issues report on US CIA's cyberattacks on other countries

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Clearing the air amid the controversy that has gained much traction not only in the Indian southern state but in all parts of the country, the film certification body in its counter affidavit filed in the high court, said the film does not claim accuracy of facts pertaining to historical events.

It added that the film is not offensive towards any person, dead or living, or against any organisation, any faith or any community.&nbsp;All events have been further verified and corroborated by historians, experts and various news reports, as per the film certification body.&nbsp;

Earlier, the Madras High Court also rejected a plea which sought ban on release of "The Kerala Story". 
 
"Why are you coming so late? If you'd come earlier, we could've asked someone to watch the movie and decide. You have not seen the movie yet. How can you assume that there will be problems? Moreover, the Kerala High Court is already seized of the matter..We're dismissing this case, sir. The Kerala High Court and the Supreme Court have already dealt with the issue," Justice Chandira said.

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Kerala High Court on Friday refused to put a ban on Sudipto Sen's controversial film The Kerala Story. A division bench of the Kerala High Court rejected a petition against the release of the controversial film.

Kerala High Court on Friday refused to put a ban on Sudipto Sen's controversial film The Kerala Story. A division bench of the Kerala High Court rejected a petition against the release of the controversial film. The petition sought a directive to cancel the ‘A’ certification granted to the movie by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The Kerala High Court division bench refused to stay the screening of the film The Kerala Story, whose trailer caused much uproar. The film's trailer claimed that tens of thousands of girls from non-Muslim communities have disappeared from Kerala and joined terror groups such as Islamic State. After watching the trailer of the movie, a division bench of Justices N Nagaresh and Sophy Thomas said that it does not contain anything against Islam or Muslims as a whole but was about ISIS. “What is against Islam? There is no allegation against the religion. The allegation is against ISIS,” the bench remarked. “Going through the trailers of the movie, we find it does not contain anything offensive to any particular community as a whole. None of the petitioners have watched movie,” the Court noted in its order, said a Bar and Bench report. Also Read | BAPS Swaminarayan temple vandalised in Sydney by Khalistan supporters: Reports The bench remarked that Hindu sanyasis are depicted as smugglers or rapists in umpteen movies but it has not led to any adverse consequences. "There are umpteen number of movies where Hindu sanyasis are depicted as smugglers or rapists. Nothing happens, no one protests. Many such Hindi and Malayalam films are there," said Justice Nagaresh. After hearing all parties at length, the court refused to the stay the release of the film and further noted that the CBFC has examined the movie and found it suitable for public exhibition. "As provided by guidelines, the board has considered and examined the movie. From the statement of the Deputy Solicitor General, the producers have published a disclaimer that the film is fictionalised and dramatised. We are not inclined to pass an interim order restraining exhibition of film," the court said. Rubbishing the claims made in the movie that about 32,000 women were converted and sent for terror missions, the petitioners termed it fictitious that has no connection with reality. The producer of "The Kerala Story" told Kerala High Court that the teaser of the movie, which claimed that over 32,000 women from Kerala were recruited to ISIS, will be removed from their social media accounts. High Court has recorded the statement, reported Live Law. Those who are now opposing the movie call it incredulous. However, the makers of the film are refusing to back down. The bench consisted of N Nagaresh and Mohammed Nias C P. Also Read | US regional bank Western Alliance quashes report of exploring potential sale This comes as Indian Supreme Court on Thursday refused to entertain a plea which sought to change the disclaimer of the movie from 'true story' to 'fiction'. Earlier, Indian Supreme Court urged the petitioners to approach Kerala High Court for the matter. The petitioners also claimed that the statements used for the movie teaser will destroy the secular fabric of the state. Watch | China issues report on US CIA's cyberattacks on other countries × Clearing the air amid the controversy that has gained much traction not only in the Indian southern state but in all parts of the country, the film certification body in its counter affidavit filed in the high court, said the film does not claim accuracy of facts pertaining to historical events. It added that the film is not offensive towards any person, dead or living, or against any organisation, any faith or any community. All events have been further verified and corroborated by historians, experts and various news reports, as per the film certification body. Earlier, the Madras High Court also rejected a plea which sought ban on release of "The Kerala Story". "Why are you coming so late? If you'd come earlier, we could've asked someone to watch the movie and decide. You have not seen the movie yet. How can you assume that there will be problems? Moreover, the Kerala High Court is already seized of the matter..We're dismissing this case, sir. The Kerala High Court and the Supreme Court have already dealt with the issue," Justice Chandira said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kerala HC refuses to stay release of ‘The Kerala Story’, says allegation against ISIS not religion

Pakistan Occupied Kashmir's (PoK) High Court bench on Tuesday disqualified Prime Minister Sardar Tanveer Ilyas from the legislative assembly for contempt of court.

After the court's verdict, Ilyas won't be holding the office of PoK's prime minister and a new premier will be elected by the legislative assembly.

The courts of PoK had on Monday served separate notices to Ilyas asking him to explain his position over his “derogatory remarks about the superior judiciary in his speeches at public meetings”.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-jammu-and-kashmirs-budget-twice-the-size-of-pakistans-imf-bailout-request-578174">Jammu and Kashmir’s budget twice the size of Pakistan’s IMF bailout request, documents show</a>

The notices, which were served through the PM's principal secretary, asked Ilyas to make separate appearances before the Supreme Court and the high court on Tuesday.

During a function held in Islamabad, Ilyas had indirectly held the judiciary responsible for affecting his government's functioning and interfering in the executive's domain through the grant of stay orders.

Ilyas had made a particular reference to a $15 million Saudi-funded education sector project, stating that it was in limbo because a stay order was issued on it by the court.

He also took strong exception to the “de-sealing by the courts of tobacco factories involved in tax evasion to the tune of billions of rupees”.

The high court's judgement was read out on Tuesday by Justice Chaudhry Khalid Rasheed, sentencing the PoK premier till the rising of the court.

After the announcement of the court's verdict, Ilyas - who was supposed to make an appearance before the Supreme Court – went to the Prime Minister’s House accompanied by the cabinet members.

Speaking on the court's verdict, PTI leader Fawad Chaudhry said that whether it was Pakistan's prime minister or that of PoK, respecting the court's decision was necessary.

“This country cannot be run by destroying the judicial system,” he stated, appealing to Ilyas to apologise and stating that he hoped the Supreme Court would give him relief.

He added that Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif should learn a lesson from the court's verdict.

WATCH | PoK assembly endorses Amit Shah's statement on opening of Sharda Peeth corridor

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<h2>Court issues notice</h2>

Presenting the clip of the prime minister's speech in the court's order, the PoK court said that a discussion was held on the matter by the judges’ council “in view of its seriousness” and it was unanimously decided “it could not be overlooked because the dignity and authority of the courts was on stake and nobody could be allowed to undermine it”.

“However, […] before issuing contempt notice we are intended to ask the prime minister to appear in person and explain his position on the referred news,” the court stated. Identical observations were made by the high court.

“Prime Minister Tanveer Ilyas has directly threatened the superior judiciary and the language of his speech at a public meeting is highly derogatory, improper and indecently worded,” the order stated.

Not just the latest statement, but his “previous track record from several months is [also] objectionable, unbecoming and improper,” it further stated.

The order read that the high court judges’ council unanimously decided not to leave the matter unattended “simply by shutting [its] eye from contemptuous and derogatory statement of the person who is at the helm of affairs.”

“By showing magnanimity and judicial restraint, we have opted, in the beginning of the proceedings, to serve a notice on the prime minister to personally appear before the full court to explain his position,” it added.

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Pakistan Occupied Kashmir's (PoK) High Court bench on Tuesday disqualified Prime Minister Sardar Tanveer Ilyas from the legislative assembly for contempt of court.

Pakistan Occupied Kashmir's (PoK) High Court bench on Tuesday disqualified Prime Minister Sardar Tanveer Ilyas from the legislative assembly for contempt of court. After the court's verdict, Ilyas won't be holding the office of PoK's prime minister and a new premier will be elected by the legislative assembly. The courts of PoK had on Monday served separate notices to Ilyas asking him to explain his position over his “derogatory remarks about the superior judiciary in his speeches at public meetings”. ALSO READ | Jammu and Kashmir’s budget twice the size of Pakistan’s IMF bailout request, documents show The notices, which were served through the PM's principal secretary, asked Ilyas to make separate appearances before the Supreme Court and the high court on Tuesday. During a function held in Islamabad, Ilyas had indirectly held the judiciary responsible for affecting his government's functioning and interfering in the executive's domain through the grant of stay orders. Ilyas had made a particular reference to a $15 million Saudi-funded education sector project, stating that it was in limbo because a stay order was issued on it by the court. He also took strong exception to the “de-sealing by the courts of tobacco factories involved in tax evasion to the tune of billions of rupees”. The high court's judgement was read out on Tuesday by Justice Chaudhry Khalid Rasheed, sentencing the PoK premier till the rising of the court. After the announcement of the court's verdict, Ilyas - who was supposed to make an appearance before the Supreme Court – went to the Prime Minister’s House accompanied by the cabinet members. Speaking on the court's verdict, PTI leader Fawad Chaudhry said that whether it was Pakistan's prime minister or that of PoK, respecting the court's decision was necessary. “This country cannot be run by destroying the judicial system,” he stated, appealing to Ilyas to apologise and stating that he hoped the Supreme Court would give him relief. He added that Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif should learn a lesson from the court's verdict. WATCH | PoK assembly endorses Amit Shah's statement on opening of Sharda Peeth corridor Court issues notice Presenting the clip of the prime minister's speech in the court's order, the PoK court said that a discussion was held on the matter by the judges’ council “in view of its seriousness” and it was unanimously decided “it could not be overlooked because the dignity and authority of the courts was on stake and nobody could be allowed to undermine it”. “However, […] before issuing contempt notice we are intended to ask the prime minister to appear in person and explain his position on the referred news,” the court stated. Identical observations were made by the high court. “Prime Minister Tanveer Ilyas has directly threatened the superior judiciary and the language of his speech at a public meeting is highly derogatory, improper and indecently worded,” the order stated. Not just the latest statement, but his “previous track record from several months is [also] objectionable, unbecoming and improper,” it further stated. The order read that the high court judges’ council unanimously decided not to leave the matter unattended “simply by shutting [its] eye from contemptuous and derogatory statement of the person who is at the helm of affairs.” “By showing magnanimity and judicial restraint, we have opted, in the beginning of the proceedings, to serve a notice on the prime minister to personally appear before the full court to explain his position,” it added. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

High Court disqualifies PoK PM Sardar Tanveer Ilyas for contempt of court

In India, the Punjab and Haryana High Court on Monday (March 27) used artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot developed by OpenAI's ChatGPT while deciding a bail case.&nbsp;

India-based media reports mentioned that the court noted that "any reference to ChatGPT and any observation made… is only intended to present a broader picture on bail jurisprudence, where cruelty is a factor".&nbsp;

In a first, Justice Anoop Chitkara referred to the AI text generator's answer in the legal ruling. He assessed the worldwide view on bail "when the assault was laced with cruelty".&nbsp;

Artificial intelligence has become the current hot topic in the tech industry, doing mundane tasks quickly and efficiently. AI chatbots are saving time and energy in day-to-day activities like writing, speech recognition, translation, etc.&nbsp;

AI chatbots are gradually becoming a significant part of some industries, but several experts have raised concerns. Its usage has become common in academics, journalism, etc, but the merge of AI in the judicial system is quite unique.&nbsp;

Before it passed the order, the bench asked the AI: "What is the jurisprudence on bail when the assailants assaulted with cruelty?"

The ChatGPT reply was: "The jurisprudence on bail for cases where the assailants have assaulted with cruelty will depend on the specific circumstances of the case and the laws and regulations of the jurisdiction&nbsp;where the case is being tried."&nbsp;

"However, in general, if the assailants have been charged with a violent crime that involves cruelty, such as murder, aggravated assault, or torture, they may be considered a danger to the community and a flight risk. In such cases, the judge may be less inclined to grant bail or may set the bail amount very high to ensure that the defendant appears in court and does not pose a risk to public safety.

"The severity of the assault, the defendant’s criminal history, and the strength of the evidence against them are all factors that a judge will consider when deciding whether to grant bail. It is important to note that the presumption of innocence is a fundamental principle of the justice system, and all defendants are entitled to bail unless there are compelling reasons to deny it.

"Therefore, even in cases where the assailants have assaulted with cruelty, they may still be granted bail if the judge determines that they do not pose a risk to the community or a flight risk," the AI-generated text read.&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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In India, the Punjab and Haryana High Court on Monday (March 27) used artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot developed by OpenAI's ChatGPT while deciding a bail case.

In India, the Punjab and Haryana High Court on Monday (March 27) used artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot developed by OpenAI's ChatGPT while deciding a bail case. India-based media reports mentioned that the court noted that "any reference to ChatGPT and any observation made… is only intended to present a broader picture on bail jurisprudence, where cruelty is a factor". In a first, Justice Anoop Chitkara referred to the AI text generator's answer in the legal ruling. He assessed the worldwide view on bail "when the assault was laced with cruelty". Artificial intelligence has become the current hot topic in the tech industry, doing mundane tasks quickly and efficiently. AI chatbots are saving time and energy in day-to-day activities like writing, speech recognition, translation, etc. AI chatbots are gradually becoming a significant part of some industries, but several experts have raised concerns. Its usage has become common in academics, journalism, etc, but the merge of AI in the judicial system is quite unique. Before it passed the order, the bench asked the AI: "What is the jurisprudence on bail when the assailants assaulted with cruelty?" The ChatGPT reply was: "The jurisprudence on bail for cases where the assailants have assaulted with cruelty will depend on the specific circumstances of the case and the laws and regulations of the jurisdiction where the case is being tried." "However, in general, if the assailants have been charged with a violent crime that involves cruelty, such as murder, aggravated assault, or torture, they may be considered a danger to the community and a flight risk. In such cases, the judge may be less inclined to grant bail or may set the bail amount very high to ensure that the defendant appears in court and does not pose a risk to public safety. "The severity of the assault, the defendant’s criminal history, and the strength of the evidence against them are all factors that a judge will consider when deciding whether to grant bail. It is important to note that the presumption of innocence is a fundamental principle of the justice system, and all defendants are entitled to bail unless there are compelling reasons to deny it. "Therefore, even in cases where the assailants have assaulted with cruelty, they may still be granted bail if the judge determines that they do not pose a risk to the community or a flight risk," the AI-generated text read. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Punjab and Haryana High Court asks ChatGPT's opinion in murder case

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on has been granted protective bail by the Lahore High Court in the case pertaining to protests outside the Election Commission of Pakistan after the poll body disqualified Khan in a prohibited funding case in 2022.

Lahore HC grants protective bail to Imran Khan

The Gauhati High Court has granted anticipatory bail to nine people&nbsp;being questioned by the Assam Police in connection with the state-led campaign against child marriages.&nbsp;The Gauhati High Court noted that there is no need to interrogate the apprehended or accused in custody in this matter while citing how the crackdown has caused ‘havoc in the private lives of people.’&nbsp;The Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses Act, 2012 (POCSO) and rape charges against individuals found guilty of child marriage were also denounced by the Assam high court. The claims and accusations made by the BJP-led Assam government were deemed "absolutely weird" by the&nbsp;High Court.

All of the petitioners in the child marriage cases were given instant clearance by Justice Suman Shyam to be released on bail, as per ANI reports.

"These are not matters of custodial interrogation. You (state) proceed as per law, we have nothing to say. If you find somebody guilty, file a charge sheet. Let him or her face trial and if they are convicted, they are convicted," the judge said.

"This (arrest) is&nbsp;causing havoc&nbsp;in the private life of people. There are children, there are family members, there are old people. This may not be a good idea to go for (arrests), obviously it is a bad idea," he observed on Tuesday (February 14).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-adani-row-the-indian-government-accepts-supreme-courts-suggestion-562350">India's top court to hear opposition lawmaker's petition against Adani</a>

<h2>Child marriages in Assam</h2>

In Assam, 4,225 incidents of child marriage have been registered as of February 14; 3,031 persons have been detained in total and 4,004 FIRs were filed when the crackdown began on February 3.

The state government does not even have space in the jails, Justice Shyam informed Additional Public Prosecutor D Das, and he recommended that the administration build larger prisons.

Justice Shyam responded to the government advocate's observation that cases had been filed under the POCSO Act's non-bailable charges and the rape (IPC Section 376) provision by saying, "What is the POCSO here? Merely because POCSO is added, does it mean the judges will not see what is there?"

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Air India to buy over 200 Boeing planes, deal is biggest in aviation history

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"The high court is not acquitting anybody and nobody is preventing the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explained-what-does-the-discovery-of-lithium-in-jk-mean-for-india-561632">government</a> from investigating the cases of child marriages," he added.

"Why Section 376 (of IPC)? Is there any allegation of rape here? These are all weird allegations, absolutely weird," Justice Shyam continued.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Gauhati High Court has granted anticipatory bail to nine people being questioned by the Assam Police in connection with the state-led campaign against child marriages.

The Gauhati High Court has granted anticipatory bail to nine people being questioned by the Assam Police in connection with the state-led campaign against child marriages. The Gauhati High Court noted that there is no need to interrogate the apprehended or accused in custody in this matter while citing how the crackdown has caused ‘havoc in the private lives of people.’ The Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses Act, 2012 (POCSO) and rape charges against individuals found guilty of child marriage were also denounced by the Assam high court. The claims and accusations made by the BJP-led Assam government were deemed "absolutely weird" by the High Court. All of the petitioners in the child marriage cases were given instant clearance by Justice Suman Shyam to be released on bail, as per ANI reports. "These are not matters of custodial interrogation. You (state) proceed as per law, we have nothing to say. If you find somebody guilty, file a charge sheet. Let him or her face trial and if they are convicted, they are convicted," the judge said. "This (arrest) is causing havoc in the private life of people. There are children, there are family members, there are old people. This may not be a good idea to go for (arrests), obviously it is a bad idea," he observed on Tuesday (February 14). ALSO READ | India's top court to hear opposition lawmaker's petition against Adani Child marriages in Assam In Assam, 4,225 incidents of child marriage have been registered as of February 14; 3,031 persons have been detained in total and 4,004 FIRs were filed when the crackdown began on February 3. The state government does not even have space in the jails, Justice Shyam informed Additional Public Prosecutor D Das, and he recommended that the administration build larger prisons. Justice Shyam responded to the government advocate's observation that cases had been filed under the POCSO Act's non-bailable charges and the rape (IPC Section 376) provision by saying, "What is the POCSO here? Merely because POCSO is added, does it mean the judges will not see what is there?" ALSO WATCH | Air India to buy over 200 Boeing planes, deal is biggest in aviation history "The high court is not acquitting anybody and nobody is preventing the government from investigating the cases of child marriages," he added. "Why Section 376 (of IPC)? Is there any allegation of rape here? These are all weird allegations, absolutely weird," Justice Shyam continued. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Gauhati HC grants bail in child marriage cases, says crackdown caused ‘havoc in private lives of people’

The High Court of Justice in Israel has overturned the appointment of Shas leader Aryeh Deri from the posts of interior minister and health minister in its&nbsp;latest ruling, with 10 judges backing the order and one voting against it. The judges consider Deri's appointment as “unreasonable in the extreme” in light of the numerous corruption charges against him, reported the Times of Israel.&nbsp;

Deri, who took the oath alongside the rest of the government on December 29, must therefore be fired by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in accordance with the court's verdict.

Together with Uzi Vogelman, Anat Baron, Daphne Barak-Erez, Yael Willner, and others, Court President Esther Hayut voted&nbsp;to revoke Deri's appointment. 
 
The ruling deepens a rift over the power of courts in Israel and could turn out to be the first coalition crisis for&nbsp;Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Also watch |&nbsp;US supplies reportedly kept in Israel to help Ukraine

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The high court ruled that Deri, the influential head of the ultra-Orthodox Shas party who has served repeatedly in Netanyahu's previous governments, is disqualified from serving as a minister after he was convicted last year for tax offenses and placed on probation as part of a plea deal.&nbsp; 
 
The verdict spells trouble for the coalition&nbsp;as some Shas members urged PM Netanyahu to find a solution so that Deri retains the title he deserves as head of a mid-sized party or else&nbsp;they could bolt the coalition, shrinking 64-seat majority by 11 seats in the 120-member Knesset. 
 
Talking to&nbsp;Kan public radio, Yakov Margi, a Shas Cabinet minister, said, "if Aryeh Deri isn't in the government, there isn't a government." 
 
Judge Yosef Elron was&nbsp;the only contrarian, arguing that Deri ought to be made to file an appeal with the Central Election Committee, which should then decide the case.&nbsp;Following covert warnings that the coalition would hasten its efforts to significantly curtail the court's authority in the event that Deri is found ineligible, it is unclear how the new administration will respond.

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The High Court of Justice in Israel has overturned the appointment of Shas leader Aryeh Deri from the posts of interior minister and health minister in its latest ruling, with 10 judges backing the order and one voting against it.

The High Court of Justice in Israel has overturned the appointment of Shas leader Aryeh Deri from the posts of interior minister and health minister in its latest ruling, with 10 judges backing the order and one voting against it. The judges consider Deri's appointment as “unreasonable in the extreme” in light of the numerous corruption charges against him, reported the Times of Israel. Deri, who took the oath alongside the rest of the government on December 29, must therefore be fired by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in accordance with the court's verdict. Together with Uzi Vogelman, Anat Baron, Daphne Barak-Erez, Yael Willner, and others, Court President Esther Hayut voted to revoke Deri's appointment. The ruling deepens a rift over the power of courts in Israel and could turn out to be the first coalition crisis for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Also watch | US supplies reportedly kept in Israel to help Ukraine The high court ruled that Deri, the influential head of the ultra-Orthodox Shas party who has served repeatedly in Netanyahu's previous governments, is disqualified from serving as a minister after he was convicted last year for tax offenses and placed on probation as part of a plea deal. The verdict spells trouble for the coalition as some Shas members urged PM Netanyahu to find a solution so that Deri retains the title he deserves as head of a mid-sized party or else they could bolt the coalition, shrinking 64-seat majority by 11 seats in the 120-member Knesset. Talking to Kan public radio, Yakov Margi, a Shas Cabinet minister, said, "if Aryeh Deri isn't in the government, there isn't a government." Judge Yosef Elron was the only contrarian, arguing that Deri ought to be made to file an appeal with the Central Election Committee, which should then decide the case. Following covert warnings that the coalition would hasten its efforts to significantly curtail the court's authority in the event that Deri is found ineligible, it is unclear how the new administration will respond. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Israel’s high court strikes down Shas leader Aryeh Deri’s appointment as minister over tax offenses

The Calcutta High Court has finally reached a resolution in one of the oldest pending cases in the nation. This week, a panel of India's oldest high court—whose current Chief Justice Prakash Shrivastava was born ten years after the case was initially filed in 1951—decided the country's longest legal dispute.

Although the dispute surrounding the dissolution of the former Berhampur Bank Limited has finally been resolved, Calcutta High Court has still two of the five oldest pending cases to resolve. All the cases were filed in 1952, The Times of India reported.

The Madras high court is currently hearing a case, while the other remaining cases are civil lawsuits being handled in the civil courts of Malda, Bengal, Satlok Express News reported. In an effort to settle these disputed matters, the Malda courts have scheduled hearings for March and November.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionnews.com/india-news/there-will-be-no-court-cases-in-india-if-we-have-a-happy-lot-of-citizens-chief-justice-ranjan-gogoi-239700" hreflang="en">There will be no court cases in India if we have a happy lot of citizens: Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi</a>

The National Judicial Data Grid lists the Berhampur case as the oldest case heard in any Indian court as of January 9. On January 1, 1951, a petition questioning the decision to shut down the Berhampur Bank was submitted, and on the&nbsp;same day, it was registered as "Case No. 71/1951." Several lawsuits were filed against debtors by Berhampur Bank in an effort to recover lost funds, many of whom filed court documents contesting the bank's claims.

The petition challenging the bank's liquidation was scheduled for two hearings before the HC last September, but no one showed up, according to court records.

Justice Kapur then asked the court's liquidator to provide a report. On September 19, the assistant liquidator notified the court that the matter had been resolved in August 2006. It was found that this was not corrected in the records, which is why the case was still listed as pending.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Calcutta High Court has finally reached a resolution in one of the oldest pending cases in the nation. This week, a panel of India's oldest high court—whose current Chief Justice Prakash Shrivastava was born ten years after the case was initially filed in 1951—decided the country's longest legal dispute.

The Calcutta High Court has finally reached a resolution in one of the oldest pending cases in the nation. This week, a panel of India's oldest high court—whose current Chief Justice Prakash Shrivastava was born ten years after the case was initially filed in 1951—decided the country's longest legal dispute. Although the dispute surrounding the dissolution of the former Berhampur Bank Limited has finally been resolved, Calcutta High Court has still two of the five oldest pending cases to resolve. All the cases were filed in 1952, The Times of India reported. The Madras high court is currently hearing a case, while the other remaining cases are civil lawsuits being handled in the civil courts of Malda, Bengal, Satlok Express News reported. In an effort to settle these disputed matters, the Malda courts have scheduled hearings for March and November. Also Read | There will be no court cases in India if we have a happy lot of citizens: Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi The National Judicial Data Grid lists the Berhampur case as the oldest case heard in any Indian court as of January 9. On January 1, 1951, a petition questioning the decision to shut down the Berhampur Bank was submitted, and on the same day, it was registered as "Case No. 71/1951." Several lawsuits were filed against debtors by Berhampur Bank in an effort to recover lost funds, many of whom filed court documents contesting the bank's claims. The petition challenging the bank's liquidation was scheduled for two hearings before the HC last September, but no one showed up, according to court records. Justice Kapur then asked the court's liquidator to provide a report. On September 19, the assistant liquidator notified the court that the matter had been resolved in August 2006. It was found that this was not corrected in the records, which is why the case was still listed as pending. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India’s oldest pending case reaches resolution after 72 years

In London's High Court, rival members of the royal family of Qatar are squabbling over ownership of the largest cut blue diamond in the world. One side is attempting to force a $10 million sale of the magnificent 70 carat "Idol's Eye" stone.

Tussle between two Qatari royals reach London high court

Cricketer M S Dhoni has moved the Madras High Court to initiate contempt proceedings and issue summons to IPS officer G Sampath Kumar for his alleged statements against the judiciary and the senior counsel in the cases against him in Supreme Court in the matter pertaining to match-fixing.

The case was listed, but was not heard due to a shortage of time.

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In 2014, Dhoni filed a civil suit to permanently restrain Sampath Kumar, who was the then Inspector General of Police, from making any statement linking him (Dhoni) to match-fixing and spot-fixing of matches. He prayed the court to direct him to pay Rs 100 crore towards damages.

By an interim order passed on March 18, 2014, the court restrained Sampath Kumar from making any statement against Dhoni. Despite the order, Sampath Kumar allegedly filed an affidavit before the Supreme Court containing disparaging remarks against the judiciary and the senior counsel representing the State in the cases against him. When it was brought to the notice of the Madras High Court, it took the same on its file in December 2021.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-want-to-ensure-india-reach-t20-world-cup-semi-finals-at-any-cost-shahid-afridi-makes-glaring-remark-531137">ICC want to ensure India reach T20 World Cup semi-finals at any cost: Shahid Afridi makes glaring remark</a>

After obtaining consent from Advocate-General R Shanmugasundaram on July 18 this year to file the contempt application, Dhoni preferred the present contempt application on October 11 this year to punish Sampath Kumar for his alleged action of making remarks against the judiciary in violation of the court's interim order passed in 2014. 
&nbsp;

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Cricketer M S Dhoni has moved the Madras High Court to initiate contempt proceedings and issue summons to IPS officer G Sampath Kumar for his alleged statements against the judiciary and the senior counsel in the cases against him in Supreme Court in the matter pertaining to match-fixing.

Cricketer M S Dhoni has moved the Madras High Court to initiate contempt proceedings and issue summons to IPS officer G Sampath Kumar for his alleged statements against the judiciary and the senior counsel in the cases against him in Supreme Court in the matter pertaining to match-fixing. The case was listed, but was not heard due to a shortage of time. ALSO READ: Alcaraz retires with injury as Auger-Aliassime powers into semi-finals In 2014, Dhoni filed a civil suit to permanently restrain Sampath Kumar, who was the then Inspector General of Police, from making any statement linking him (Dhoni) to match-fixing and spot-fixing of matches. He prayed the court to direct him to pay Rs 100 crore towards damages. By an interim order passed on March 18, 2014, the court restrained Sampath Kumar from making any statement against Dhoni. Despite the order, Sampath Kumar allegedly filed an affidavit before the Supreme Court containing disparaging remarks against the judiciary and the senior counsel representing the State in the cases against him. When it was brought to the notice of the Madras High Court, it took the same on its file in December 2021. ALSO READ: ICC want to ensure India reach T20 World Cup semi-finals at any cost: Shahid Afridi makes glaring remark After obtaining consent from Advocate-General R Shanmugasundaram on July 18 this year to file the contempt application, Dhoni preferred the present contempt application on October 11 this year to punish Sampath Kumar for his alleged action of making remarks against the judiciary in violation of the court's interim order passed in 2014. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Former India captain Dhoni moves Madras HC for contempt proceedings against IPS officer

The majority of judges on the Australian high court are now women after the appointment of justice Jayne Jagot on Wednesday. This will be the first time in history that women will outnumber men in the country’s high court as Jagot will replace justice Patrick Keane as the 56th justice of the court.&nbsp;

The announcement was made by attorney general Mark Dreyfus who also said that Jagot will take her position on October 17. Dreyfus, along with Prime Minister&nbsp;Anthony Albanese, described Jagot as an “outstanding lawyer and an eminent judge" as well as a “well-deserved appointment”.&nbsp;

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While the appointment created history by giving women the majority, there was some criticism regarding the lack of representation when it comes to South Australia. Jagot is a Sydney-based judge and her appointment meant that there remains disparity when it comes to judges from all parts of Australia.&nbsp;

Dreyfus made it clear that the decision was not taken to “ignore South Australia”. He also said that the gender of the candidate did not play a factor&nbsp;in the decision as she was the “best choice”.&nbsp;

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“I can only assure the people of Australia that this appointment is of the best possible person for this position to the high court of Australia,” Dreyfus said in the official statement.&nbsp;

“The government is very proud of the appointment that we are making today … and I am certain that she is going to serve with distinction. Justice Jagot is an eminent jurist and brings tremendous experience, and was nominated by very, very many people that I consulted with,” he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The majority of judges on the Australian high court are now women after the appointment of justice Jayne Jagot on Wednesday. This will be the first time in history that women will outnumber men in the country’s high court as Jagot will replace justice Patrick Keane as the 56th justice of the court.

The majority of judges on the Australian high court are now women after the appointment of justice Jayne Jagot on Wednesday. This will be the first time in history that women will outnumber men in the country’s high court as Jagot will replace justice Patrick Keane as the 56th justice of the court. The announcement was made by attorney general Mark Dreyfus who also said that Jagot will take her position on October 17. Dreyfus, along with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, described Jagot as an “outstanding lawyer and an eminent judge" as well as a “well-deserved appointment”. Also read | Two million without power as Hurricane Ian causes devastation in Florida While the appointment created history by giving women the majority, there was some criticism regarding the lack of representation when it comes to South Australia. Jagot is a Sydney-based judge and her appointment meant that there remains disparity when it comes to judges from all parts of Australia. Dreyfus made it clear that the decision was not taken to “ignore South Australia”. He also said that the gender of the candidate did not play a factor in the decision as she was the “best choice”. Also read | Fourth leak found on Nord Stream pipelines, says Swedish coast guard “I can only assure the people of Australia that this appointment is of the best possible person for this position to the high court of Australia,” Dreyfus said in the official statement. “The government is very proud of the appointment that we are making today … and I am certain that she is going to serve with distinction. Justice Jagot is an eminent jurist and brings tremendous experience, and was nominated by very, very many people that I consulted with,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia’s high court to have majority-female bench for first time in history

Another Indian sports body is in danger of being banned. The Indian Olympic Association has been placed under a committee of administrators by the Delhi high court.

Delhi High Court appoints three-member COA to take over IOA

The Delhi High Court has given a split verdict on the issue of criminalization of marital rape. A division bench comprising of two judges, gave conflicting views on plea seeking to criminalize marital rape in India.

Delhi High Court's split verdict on Marital rape; consent of women still an issue?

The rescue operations have ended after a fatal accident at the Trikut Ropeway service in Jharkhand's Deoghar in India took place on Sunday, authorities said.&nbsp;

The cars collided when one of them became partly dislodged from its cable. None of the cars fell to the ground but both became immobilised.&nbsp;

Reports have stated that the accident occurred due to the breaking of the sap of the ropeway operated on the mountain.&nbsp;

All the tourists trapped in cable cars have been rescued, while one more person fell off a helicopter when she was being winched up. The death toll in the incident is reported to be three.&nbsp;

"Three people have died in the mishap, including two tourists who fell from helicopters on Monday and Tuesday during rescue attempts, while 12 injured people are undergoing treatment at hospitals," officials said as quoted by news agencies.&nbsp;

Additional Director General of Police RK Mallick told India-based news agency PTI, "Of the remaining 15 people trapped in cable cars, 14 have been rescued while a woman fell off the chopper during the course of rescue operation."&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The woman has been identified as 60-year-old Shobha Devi, who was apparently declared dead on being taken to a hospital.&nbsp;

The rescue operations were undertaken jointly by the Indian Air Force (IAF), Army, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the district personnel.&nbsp;

The aerial tramway takes pilgrims to the top of a hill called Trikut, which Hindus consider holy.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Jharkhand High Court on Tuesday took suo motu cognizance of the mishap and ordered an inquiry into the matter. The court will hear the matter on April 26. The state has to file a detailed inquiry report through an affidavit.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IAF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IAF</a> carried out rescue of stranded passengers on the Trikut Hills ropeway in Deoghar district of Jharkhand on 11 &amp; 12 Apr 22. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IAF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IAF</a> Mi-17V5 &amp; ALH Mk III heptrs flew 28 sorties &amp; 26 hrs during this activity.
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The rescue operations have ended after a fatal accident at the Trikut Ropeway service in Jharkhand's Deoghar in India took place on Sunday, authorities said. The cars collided when one of them became partly dislodged from its cable.

The rescue operations have ended after a fatal accident at the Trikut Ropeway service in Jharkhand's Deoghar in India took place on Sunday, authorities said. The cars collided when one of them became partly dislodged from its cable. None of the cars fell to the ground but both became immobilised. Reports have stated that the accident occurred due to the breaking of the sap of the ropeway operated on the mountain. All the tourists trapped in cable cars have been rescued, while one more person fell off a helicopter when she was being winched up. The death toll in the incident is reported to be three. "Three people have died in the mishap, including two tourists who fell from helicopters on Monday and Tuesday during rescue attempts, while 12 injured people are undergoing treatment at hospitals," officials said as quoted by news agencies. Additional Director General of Police RK Mallick told India-based news agency PTI, "Of the remaining 15 people trapped in cable cars, 14 have been rescued while a woman fell off the chopper during the course of rescue operation." The woman has been identified as 60-year-old Shobha Devi, who was apparently declared dead on being taken to a hospital. The rescue operations were undertaken jointly by the Indian Air Force (IAF), Army, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the district personnel. The aerial tramway takes pilgrims to the top of a hill called Trikut, which Hindus consider holy. Meanwhile, Jharkhand High Court on Tuesday took suo motu cognizance of the mishap and ordered an inquiry into the matter. The court will hear the matter on April 26. The state has to file a detailed inquiry report through an affidavit. #IAF carried out rescue of stranded passengers on the Trikut Hills ropeway in Deoghar district of Jharkhand on 11 & 12 Apr 22. #IAF Mi-17V5 & ALH Mk III heptrs flew 28 sorties & 26 hrs during this activity. — Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) April 12, 2022 ×

VIDEO | Jharkhand ropeway accident: Three dead, trapped tourists rescued; HC orders inquiry

An appeal has been filed in the Supreme Court challenging the direction of the Karnataka High Court that has asked students not to insist on wearing any cloth on campuses of educational institutions which can instigate people, till the matter is resolved.

The plea filed by a student has sought a stay on the direction of the high court, which is hearing the hijab issue, as well as the proceedings going on before the three-judge bench.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-remember-burkini-the-other-controversial-outfit-before-hijab-row-452193">Remember Burkini? The other controversial outfit before Hijab row</a>

The appeal contended that the high court has sought to curtail the fundamental right of Muslim student women by not allowing them to wear the hijab.

The high court has posted the matter for Monday and also said educational institutions can resume classes for students.

The three-judge full bench of Chief Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi, Justice J M Khazi and Justice Krishna S Dixit, which was formed on Wednesday, also said it wants the matter to be resolved at the earliest but till that time peace and tranquillity is to be maintained.

"Till the disposal of the matter, you people should not insist on wearing all these religious things," Awasthi had said.

"We will pass an order. Let the schools-colleges start. But till the matter is resolved, no student should insist on wearing religious dress", he had said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hijab-row-indian-court-asks-students-not-to-wear-religious-things-till-disposal-of-the-matter-452163">Hijab row: Indian court asks students not to wear 'religious things' till disposal of the matter</a>

On Wednesday, Justice Dixit, who was hearing the case, referred the case to Justice Awasthi's consideration with a view that a larger bench may look into the case.

The Hijab row started in December end when a few students started coming to a government pre-university college in Udupi wearing Hijab. To protest against it, some Hindu students turned up wearing saffron scarves.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: Women, Hijab &amp; Choice

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The row spread to other educational institutions in different parts of the State, and the protests took a violent turn at some places earlier this week, prompting the government on Tuesday to declare three days holiday for the institutions.

An appeal has been filed in the Supreme Court challenging the direction of the Karnataka High Court that has asked students not to insist on wearing any cloth on campuses of educational institutions which can instigate people, till the matter is resolved.

An appeal has been filed in the Supreme Court challenging the direction of the Karnataka High Court that has asked students not to insist on wearing any cloth on campuses of educational institutions which can instigate people, till the matter is resolved. The plea filed by a student has sought a stay on the direction of the high court, which is hearing the hijab issue, as well as the proceedings going on before the three-judge bench. Also read | Remember Burkini? The other controversial outfit before Hijab row The appeal contended that the high court has sought to curtail the fundamental right of Muslim student women by not allowing them to wear the hijab. The high court has posted the matter for Monday and also said educational institutions can resume classes for students. The three-judge full bench of Chief Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi, Justice J M Khazi and Justice Krishna S Dixit, which was formed on Wednesday, also said it wants the matter to be resolved at the earliest but till that time peace and tranquillity is to be maintained. "Till the disposal of the matter, you people should not insist on wearing all these religious things," Awasthi had said. "We will pass an order. Let the schools-colleges start. But till the matter is resolved, no student should insist on wearing religious dress", he had said. Also read | Hijab row: Indian court asks students not to wear 'religious things' till disposal of the matter On Wednesday, Justice Dixit, who was hearing the case, referred the case to Justice Awasthi's consideration with a view that a larger bench may look into the case. The Hijab row started in December end when a few students started coming to a government pre-university college in Udupi wearing Hijab. To protest against it, some Hindu students turned up wearing saffron scarves. Watch | Gravitas Plus: Women, Hijab & Choice The row spread to other educational institutions in different parts of the State, and the protests took a violent turn at some places earlier this week, prompting the government on Tuesday to declare three days holiday for the institutions.

Hijab row: Plea filed in SC challenging Karnataka HC order

While hearing a batch of petitions challenging the ban on hijab in colleges, the high court&nbsp;in India's southern Karnataka state&nbsp;on Thursday asked students not to wear "religious things"&nbsp;till the disposal of the matter.

A bench of Chief Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi, Justice Krishna S Dixit and Justice JM Khazi of the High Court said that it will pass an order directing the reopening of colleges and asked students not to insist on wearing religious things till the disposal of the matter."Peace and tranquillity must be restored," the court said while adjourning the matter for Monday.

Yesterday, a single bench of Justice Krishna S Dixit of High Court had referred the petitions filed by Muslim girl students to a larger bench while observing that important questions relating to Constitutional rights and personal law are involved.

The hijab protests in the state began in January this year when some students at the Government Girls PU college in Udupi district in Karnataka alleged that they had been barred from attending classes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/look-at-your-own-record-indian-envoy-summoned-over-hijab-controversy-hits-back-at-pakistan-452080">‘Look at your own record’: Indian envoy summoned over hijab controversy hits back at Pakistan</a>

During the protests, some students claimed they were denied entry into the college for wearing hijab.Following this incident, students of different colleges arrived at Shanteshwar Education Trust in Vijayapura wearing saffron stoles.

The situation was the same in several colleges in the Udipi district.The pre-University education board had released a circular stating that students can wear only the uniform approved by the school administration and no other religious practices will be allowed in colleges.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-hijab-row-from-dress-code-to-protests-what-really-is-the-issue-451444">Karnataka hijab row: From dress code to protests, what really is the issue?</a>

Following these protests, a three-day holiday from February 9 has been declared in all the universities under the Department of Higher Education and colleges under the department of Collegiate and Technical Education (DCTE).

On Tuesday, the Karnataka High Court also appealed to the student community and the public at large to maintain peace and tranquillity while hearing various pleas challenging a ban on hijab in the state.&nbsp;

While hearing a batch of petitions challenging the ban on hijab in colleges, the high court in India's southern Karnataka state on Thursday asked students not to wear "religious things" till the disposal of the matter.

While hearing a batch of petitions challenging the ban on hijab in colleges, the high court in India's southern Karnataka state on Thursday asked students not to wear "religious things" till the disposal of the matter. A bench of Chief Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi, Justice Krishna S Dixit and Justice JM Khazi of the High Court said that it will pass an order directing the reopening of colleges and asked students not to insist on wearing religious things till the disposal of the matter."Peace and tranquillity must be restored," the court said while adjourning the matter for Monday. Yesterday, a single bench of Justice Krishna S Dixit of High Court had referred the petitions filed by Muslim girl students to a larger bench while observing that important questions relating to Constitutional rights and personal law are involved. The hijab protests in the state began in January this year when some students at the Government Girls PU college in Udupi district in Karnataka alleged that they had been barred from attending classes. Also read | ‘Look at your own record’: Indian envoy summoned over hijab controversy hits back at Pakistan During the protests, some students claimed they were denied entry into the college for wearing hijab.Following this incident, students of different colleges arrived at Shanteshwar Education Trust in Vijayapura wearing saffron stoles. The situation was the same in several colleges in the Udipi district.The pre-University education board had released a circular stating that students can wear only the uniform approved by the school administration and no other religious practices will be allowed in colleges. Also read | Karnataka hijab row: From dress code to protests, what really is the issue? Following these protests, a three-day holiday from February 9 has been declared in all the universities under the Department of Higher Education and colleges under the department of Collegiate and Technical Education (DCTE). On Tuesday, the Karnataka High Court also appealed to the student community and the public at large to maintain peace and tranquillity while hearing various pleas challenging a ban on hijab in the state.

Hijab row: Indian court asks students not to wear 'religious things' till disposal of the matter

A judgement by an Indian high court lowering the sentence of a man who is convicted of forcing a 10-year-old boy to perform oral sex has caused outrage across the country.

The Allahabad High Court in the northern Uttar Pradesh state had ruled that the man's offence did not fall under the stringent the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act’s definition of “aggravated penetrative sexual assault”, which carries a jail sentence of minimum 10 years.

Instead, the court said the offence should be viewed as “penetrative sexual assault" - a lesser offence that carries a minimum seven-year jail term.

Justice Anil Kumar Ojha of the Allahabad High Court passed his order on November 18, in which he upheld the conviction but questioned which section of POCSO would be applicable.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-sc-sets-aside-lower-courts-ruling-that-skin-to-skin-contact-is-essential-for-sexual-offence-case-430241">India's SC sets aside lower court's ruling that skin-to-skin contact is essential for sexual offence case</a>

“Perusal of the record reveals that informant and victim have supported the prosecution story and the evidence of prosecution witnesses are cogent, trustworthy, credible and probable, hence, finding with regard to conviction is confirmed,” he said.

The order caused outrage across India with many calling the judgement regressive.

Parliamentarian Mahua Moitra was among those who expressed her anger at the order.

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Oral sex doesn’t fall under ‘aggravated sexual assault’ in POCSO, says Allahabad HC after Bombay HC shockingly said skin to skin contact necessary for POCSO offence. 
 
Wake up High Courts- POCSO meant to save kids from vilest crimes. Don’t dilute it.
— Mahua Moitra (@MahuaMoitra) <a href="https://twitter.com/MahuaMoitra/status/1463180603210145792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“Wake up High Courts - Pocso meant to save kids from vilest crimes. Don't dilute it,” she tweeted.

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Allahabad HC lowers penalty imposed by Special Sessions Court on a convict guilty of having oral sex with a 10-year-old child in lieu of Rs 20 !! 
 
Reason - the crime committed by him is 'less serious' 
 
Are our Courts encouraging children prostitution by paedophiles?
— Katyusha (@Indian10000000) <a href="https://twitter.com/Indian10000000/status/1463083938302226437?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The judgement comes only days after the Supreme Court reversed a decision of the Bombay High Court which acquitted an accused who was jailed for groping a 12-year-old girl.

The high court ruled that the most important ingredient in convicting sexual offenders under POCSO Act is “sexual intent and not skin-to-skin.”

(With inputs from agencies)

A judgement by an Indian high court lowering the sentence of a man who is convicted of forcing a 10-year-old boy to perform oral sex has caused outrage across the country.

A judgement by an Indian high court lowering the sentence of a man who is convicted of forcing a 10-year-old boy to perform oral sex has caused outrage across the country. The Allahabad High Court in the northern Uttar Pradesh state had ruled that the man's offence did not fall under the stringent the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act’s definition of “aggravated penetrative sexual assault”, which carries a jail sentence of minimum 10 years. Instead, the court said the offence should be viewed as “penetrative sexual assault" - a lesser offence that carries a minimum seven-year jail term. Justice Anil Kumar Ojha of the Allahabad High Court passed his order on November 18, in which he upheld the conviction but questioned which section of POCSO would be applicable. Also read | India's SC sets aside lower court's ruling that skin-to-skin contact is essential for sexual offence case “Perusal of the record reveals that informant and victim have supported the prosecution story and the evidence of prosecution witnesses are cogent, trustworthy, credible and probable, hence, finding with regard to conviction is confirmed,” he said. The order caused outrage across India with many calling the judgement regressive. Parliamentarian Mahua Moitra was among those who expressed her anger at the order. Oral sex doesn’t fall under ‘aggravated sexual assault’ in POCSO, says Allahabad HC after Bombay HC shockingly said skin to skin contact necessary for POCSO offence. Wake up High Courts- POCSO meant to save kids from vilest crimes. Don’t dilute it. — Mahua Moitra (@MahuaMoitra) November 23, 2021 × “Wake up High Courts - Pocso meant to save kids from vilest crimes. Don't dilute it,” she tweeted. Allahabad HC lowers penalty imposed by Special Sessions Court on a convict guilty of having oral sex with a 10-year-old child in lieu of Rs 20 !! Reason - the crime committed by him is 'less serious' Are our Courts encouraging children prostitution by paedophiles? — Katyusha (@Indian10000000) November 23, 2021 × The judgement comes only days after the Supreme Court reversed a decision of the Bombay High Court which acquitted an accused who was jailed for groping a 12-year-old girl. The high court ruled that the most important ingredient in convicting sexual offenders under POCSO Act is “sexual intent and not skin-to-skin.” (With inputs from agencies)

Indian high court's judgement lowering sentence of man accused in child abuse causes outrage

Delhi High Court on Friday asked social media giant Twitter to remove objectionable material relating to Hindu Goddess. The court observed that Twitter should respect sentiments of the public as it was doing business for them.

The bench said Twitter was doing a good job and people were happy with it.

"Things are going to be removed or not?" the court asked the counsel for Twitter.

"You should respect the sentiments of general public as you are doing business for public at large. Their sentiments shall be given due importance... Why you should do things like this. You should remove this," a bench of Chief Justice D N Patel and Justice Jyoti Singh said.

"You remove it. You have done it in Rahul Gandhi's case also," the bench added.

Sidharth Luthra, senior advocate representing Twitter, said that if the court mentions it in the order, Twitter will abide by the direction.

The matter will be heard further on November 30.

Petition, in this case, was filed by one Aditya Singh Deshwal who said that he came across highly objectionable posts on Hindu Goddess Kaali which was put up by user with the name @AtheistRepublic. He said in his petition that the goddess was represented in disgraceful and outrageous manner.

The petitioner, represented through senior advocate Sanjay Poddar, said he intimated the grievance officer of Twitter that the content put by the used was in grave contravention of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 and non-compliance of the rules shall make Twitter lose its legal immunity provided under the Information Technology Act.

He claimed that Twitter repudiated that the content in the account is not of a category for which it takes action and therefore, it cannot be removed.

The plea sought direction for Twitter to remove the objectionable content from its platform and also permanently suspend the concerned used account.

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi High Court on Friday asked social media giant Twitter to remove objectionable material relating to Hindu Goddess. The court observed that Twitter should respect sentiments of the public as it was doing business for them.

Delhi High Court on Friday asked social media giant Twitter to remove objectionable material relating to Hindu Goddess. The court observed that Twitter should respect sentiments of the public as it was doing business for them. The bench said Twitter was doing a good job and people were happy with it. "Things are going to be removed or not?" the court asked the counsel for Twitter. "You should respect the sentiments of general public as you are doing business for public at large. Their sentiments shall be given due importance... Why you should do things like this. You should remove this," a bench of Chief Justice D N Patel and Justice Jyoti Singh said. "You remove it. You have done it in Rahul Gandhi's case also," the bench added. Sidharth Luthra, senior advocate representing Twitter, said that if the court mentions it in the order, Twitter will abide by the direction. The matter will be heard further on November 30. Petition, in this case, was filed by one Aditya Singh Deshwal who said that he came across highly objectionable posts on Hindu Goddess Kaali which was put up by user with the name @AtheistRepublic. He said in his petition that the goddess was represented in disgraceful and outrageous manner. The petitioner, represented through senior advocate Sanjay Poddar, said he intimated the grievance officer of Twitter that the content put by the used was in grave contravention of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 and non-compliance of the rules shall make Twitter lose its legal immunity provided under the Information Technology Act. He claimed that Twitter repudiated that the content in the account is not of a category for which it takes action and therefore, it cannot be removed. The plea sought direction for Twitter to remove the objectionable content from its platform and also permanently suspend the concerned used account. (With inputs from agencies)

Twitter asked by Delhi High Court to remove objectionable content on Hindu Goddess

The Indian government has defended in the Delhi High Court the legal validity of its new IT rule requiring messaging apps, such as WhatsApp, to trace&nbsp;the first originator of the information, saying that the law empowers it to expect such entities to create safe cyberspace and counter illegal content either themselves or by assisting the law enforcement agencies.

The government said that Section 87 of the Information Technology Act gave it the power to formulate Rule 4(2) of the Intermediary Rules -- which mandates a significant social media intermediary to enable the identification of the first originator of information in legitimate state interest&nbsp;of curbing the menace of fake news and offences concerning national security and public order as well as women and children.

In its affidavit filed in response to WhatsApp's challenge to the rule on the ground that breaking the encryption invades its users&nbsp;privacy, the Centre has claimed that platforms monetise users&nbsp;information for business/ commercial purposes are not legally entitled to claim that it protects privacy.

Also Read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-to-pay-french-publishers-for-news-content-422671">Facebook to pay French publishers for news content</a>

Petitioners (WhatsApp and Facebook), being multi-billion dollar enterprises, almost singularly on the basis of mining, owning and storing the private data of natural persons across the world and thereafter monetizing the same, cannot claim any representative privacy right on behalf of the natural persons using the platform,&nbsp;said the affidavit filed by Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.

WhatsApp collects users&nbsp;personal information and shares it with Facebook and third-party entities for business/commercial purposes (WhatsApp's privacy policy of 2016 and its 2021 update). In fact, the regulators of various countries dearly hold that Facebook should be fixed with accountability for its services and data management practices,&nbsp;it added.

The government&nbsp;said reasons regarding 'technical difficulties cannot be an excuse to refuse compliance to the law of the land and if a platform does not have the means to trace the first originator&nbsp;without breaking the encryption then it is the platform which ought to develop such mechanism&nbsp;in larger public duty.

The Rule does not contemplate the platforms breaking the end-to-end encryption. The Rule only contemplates the platform to provide the details of the first originator by any means or mechanism available with the platform. If the platform does not have such means, the platform ought to develop such mechanism considering the platforms widespread prevalence and the larger public duty, the affidavit said.

The government said if the intermediary is not able to prevent or detect the criminal activities happening on its platform, then the problem lies in the platform's architecture and the platform must rectify their architecture and not expect the change of legislation. Reasons regarding 'technical difficulties' cannot be an excuse to refuse compliance to the law of the land.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/facebook-planning-to-change-its-name-announcement-likely-in-a-week-report-422190">Facebook planning to change its name, announcement likely in a week: Report</a>

In August, a bench headed by Chief Justice DN Patel had sought the Centre's stand on WhatsApp petition challenging new rule on the ground it violates the right to privacy and is unconstitutional.

WhatsApp's parent company Facebook has also mounted a similar challenge to the rule.

In its plea, WhatsApp had said that the traceability requirement forced it break end-to-end encryption&nbsp;and thus infringe upon the fundamental rights to privacy and free speech of the hundreds of millions of citizens using its platform to communicate privately and securely.

The Centre, in its response, has said that the petition by WhatsApp is not maintainable as a challenge to the constitutionality of any Indian law is not maintainable at the instance of a foreign commercial entity. 
It further claimed that Rule 4(2) is an embodiment of competing rights of citizens of India&nbsp;and aims to preserve the rights of vulnerable citizens within the cyberspace who can be or are victims of cyber-crime.

The government said there are checks and balances to ensure that the rule is not misused or invoked in cases where other less intrusive means are effective in identifying the originator of the information. 
The identification of the first originator pertains only to viral content relating to heinous crimes, as specified in the rule, and not identifying all users or citizens, it said.

If the IT Rules 2021 are not implemented the law enforcement agencies will have difficulty in tracing the origin of fake messages and such messages will percolate in other platforms thereby disturbing peace and harmony in the society further leading to public order issues,&nbsp;the affidavit said.

The government has also said that in case of any legal proceeding having any message on the platform as evidence, WhatsApp would lose the defence of 'intermediary protection' but it does not mean that WhatsApp will be held guilty and its officials would be legally responsible.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/whatsapp-adds-indian-rupee-symbol-to-chat-box-for-digital-payments-417405">WhatsApp adds Indian Rupee symbol to chat box for digital payments&nbsp;</a>

The courts can include WhatsApp as a respondent and consider 'Contributory Negligence' and 'Vicarious liability on WhatsApp and its executives' (under Section 85). Such liabilities will fructify only when such a case comes up and WhatsApp is named as an entity that it is sufficiently proved that it has contributed to the commission of the crime,&nbsp;it added.

The government also said that the Supreme Court itself had asked the Central government to take all the steps necessary to identify persons who create and circulate electronic information&nbsp;about certain offences such as sexual abuse.&nbsp;

The Indian government has defended in the Delhi High Court the legal validity of its new IT rule requiring messaging apps, such as WhatsApp, to trace the first originator of the information, saying that the law empowers it to expect such entities to create safe cyberspace and counter illegal content either themselves or by assisting the law enforcement agencies.

The Indian government has defended in the Delhi High Court the legal validity of its new IT rule requiring messaging apps, such as WhatsApp, to trace the first originator of the information, saying that the law empowers it to expect such entities to create safe cyberspace and counter illegal content either themselves or by assisting the law enforcement agencies. The government said that Section 87 of the Information Technology Act gave it the power to formulate Rule 4(2) of the Intermediary Rules -- which mandates a significant social media intermediary to enable the identification of the first originator of information in legitimate state interest of curbing the menace of fake news and offences concerning national security and public order as well as women and children. In its affidavit filed in response to WhatsApp's challenge to the rule on the ground that breaking the encryption invades its users privacy, the Centre has claimed that platforms monetise users information for business/ commercial purposes are not legally entitled to claim that it protects privacy. Also Read | Facebook to pay French publishers for news content Petitioners (WhatsApp and Facebook), being multi-billion dollar enterprises, almost singularly on the basis of mining, owning and storing the private data of natural persons across the world and thereafter monetizing the same, cannot claim any representative privacy right on behalf of the natural persons using the platform, said the affidavit filed by Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. WhatsApp collects users personal information and shares it with Facebook and third-party entities for business/commercial purposes (WhatsApp's privacy policy of 2016 and its 2021 update). In fact, the regulators of various countries dearly hold that Facebook should be fixed with accountability for its services and data management practices, it added. The government said reasons regarding 'technical difficulties cannot be an excuse to refuse compliance to the law of the land and if a platform does not have the means to trace the first originator without breaking the encryption then it is the platform which ought to develop such mechanism in larger public duty. The Rule does not contemplate the platforms breaking the end-to-end encryption. The Rule only contemplates the platform to provide the details of the first originator by any means or mechanism available with the platform. If the platform does not have such means, the platform ought to develop such mechanism considering the platforms widespread prevalence and the larger public duty, the affidavit said. The government said if the intermediary is not able to prevent or detect the criminal activities happening on its platform, then the problem lies in the platform's architecture and the platform must rectify their architecture and not expect the change of legislation. Reasons regarding 'technical difficulties' cannot be an excuse to refuse compliance to the law of the land. Also read | Facebook planning to change its name, announcement likely in a week: Report In August, a bench headed by Chief Justice DN Patel had sought the Centre's stand on WhatsApp petition challenging new rule on the ground it violates the right to privacy and is unconstitutional. WhatsApp's parent company Facebook has also mounted a similar challenge to the rule. In its plea, WhatsApp had said that the traceability requirement forced it break end-to-end encryption and thus infringe upon the fundamental rights to privacy and free speech of the hundreds of millions of citizens using its platform to communicate privately and securely. The Centre, in its response, has said that the petition by WhatsApp is not maintainable as a challenge to the constitutionality of any Indian law is not maintainable at the instance of a foreign commercial entity. It further claimed that Rule 4(2) is an embodiment of competing rights of citizens of India and aims to preserve the rights of vulnerable citizens within the cyberspace who can be or are victims of cyber-crime. The government said there are checks and balances to ensure that the rule is not misused or invoked in cases where other less intrusive means are effective in identifying the originator of the information. The identification of the first originator pertains only to viral content relating to heinous crimes, as specified in the rule, and not identifying all users or citizens, it said. If the IT Rules 2021 are not implemented the law enforcement agencies will have difficulty in tracing the origin of fake messages and such messages will percolate in other platforms thereby disturbing peace and harmony in the society further leading to public order issues, the affidavit said. The government has also said that in case of any legal proceeding having any message on the platform as evidence, WhatsApp would lose the defence of 'intermediary protection' but it does not mean that WhatsApp will be held guilty and its officials would be legally responsible. Also Read | WhatsApp adds Indian Rupee symbol to chat box for digital payments The courts can include WhatsApp as a respondent and consider 'Contributory Negligence' and 'Vicarious liability on WhatsApp and its executives' (under Section 85). Such liabilities will fructify only when such a case comes up and WhatsApp is named as an entity that it is sufficiently proved that it has contributed to the commission of the crime, it added. The government also said that the Supreme Court itself had asked the Central government to take all the steps necessary to identify persons who create and circulate electronic information about certain offences such as sexual abuse.

Indian govt in high court defends IT rule requiring WhatsApp to trace originator of message

Campaigners including archaeologists and environmental groups have won a high court battle to prevent a road project that involves a tunnel near Stonehenge.

The plan involved constructing a £1.7bn scheme to overhaul eight miles of the A303 in Wiltshire next to the prehistoric monument. It was backed by the government last year.

However, the campaigners soon launched a judicial review calling for the decision to be overturned.

Mr Justice Holgate on Friday ruled that Grant Shapps acted 'irrationally and unlawfully' when he approved the project.&nbsp;

The court discovered that Shapps did not properly consider alternative schemes and that the decision-making process included no evidence of the impact on each individual asset at the world-famous historic site.

Campaigners from Save Stonehenge World Heritage Site (SSWHS), were quoted by The Guardian as saying that the court ruling “should be a wake-up call for the government”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stonehenge-could-lose-world-heritage-status-here-is-why-400296">Also read |&nbsp;Stonehenge could lose world heritage status, here is why</a>

They further said, “We could not be more pleased about the outcome of the legal challenge. The Stonehenge Alliance has campaigned from the start for a longer tunnel if a tunnel should be considered necessary.”

“It should look again at its roads programme and take action to reduce road traffic and eliminate any need to build new and wider roads that threaten the environment as well as our cultural heritage.”

Meanwhile, heritage bodies earlier said that&nbsp;

UNESCO would throw a “harsher spotlight” on the UK’s other 31 listed sites after Liverpool became only the third place in nearly 50 years to be stripped of its world heritage status.&nbsp;

Sites expected to come under the scrutiny of the body include Stonehenge, Edinburgh’s new and old towns, the Tower of London and Cornwall’s historic mining area.

The president of World Heritage UK, Chris Blandford, has complained that there was a “low awareness at the government level” of the importance of the country’s Unesco sites.&nbsp;

He further said many were critically underfunded and that ministers had shown a “great reluctance to want to make the most of our World Heritage offer”.

Campaigners including archaeologists and environmental groups have won a high court battle to prevent a road project that involves a tunnel near Stonehenge. The plan involved constructing a £1.

Campaigners including archaeologists and environmental groups have won a high court battle to prevent a road project that involves a tunnel near Stonehenge. The plan involved constructing a £1.7bn scheme to overhaul eight miles of the A303 in Wiltshire next to the prehistoric monument. It was backed by the government last year. However, the campaigners soon launched a judicial review calling for the decision to be overturned. Mr Justice Holgate on Friday ruled that Grant Shapps acted 'irrationally and unlawfully' when he approved the project. The court discovered that Shapps did not properly consider alternative schemes and that the decision-making process included no evidence of the impact on each individual asset at the world-famous historic site. Campaigners from Save Stonehenge World Heritage Site (SSWHS), were quoted by The Guardian as saying that the court ruling “should be a wake-up call for the government”. Also read | Stonehenge could lose world heritage status, here is why They further said, “We could not be more pleased about the outcome of the legal challenge. The Stonehenge Alliance has campaigned from the start for a longer tunnel if a tunnel should be considered necessary.” “It should look again at its roads programme and take action to reduce road traffic and eliminate any need to build new and wider roads that threaten the environment as well as our cultural heritage.” Meanwhile, heritage bodies earlier said that UNESCO would throw a “harsher spotlight” on the UK’s other 31 listed sites after Liverpool became only the third place in nearly 50 years to be stripped of its world heritage status. Sites expected to come under the scrutiny of the body include Stonehenge, Edinburgh’s new and old towns, the Tower of London and Cornwall’s historic mining area. The president of World Heritage UK, Chris Blandford, has complained that there was a “low awareness at the government level” of the importance of the country’s Unesco sites. He further said many were critically underfunded and that ministers had shown a “great reluctance to want to make the most of our World Heritage offer”.

High court victory for Stonehenge campaigners, here is all you need to know

Following news that IDBI Bank has entirely recovered its debts from the now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines, fugitive tycoon Vijay Mallya criticised banks for claiming he owed them money on Thursday.&nbsp;

Vijay Mallya launched a tirade on Twitter and said, "And the Banks say I owe them money!".

He shared a report on IDBI Bank fully recovering its dues from now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines.

According to the news clipping, IDBI Bank recovered ₹7.5 billion from Kingfisher.

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And the Banks say I owe them money ! <a href="https://t.co/XnWSjXnnF9">pic.twitter.com/XnWSjXnnF9</a>
— Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheVijayMallya/status/1420732695760486400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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His Tweet comes after a British court awarded him a bankruptcy order, clearing the way for a consortium of Indian banks led by the State Bank of India (SBI) to seek a global freezing order to recover a debt due by Kingfisher Airlines.&nbsp;

On July 26, the fugitive businessman claimed that the Enforcement Directorate is seizing assets "worth ₹140 billion at the behest of government banks against a debt of ₹62 billion."

Mallya also tweeted that the SBI-led consortium of banks had asked "court to make me bankrupt as they may have to return money to the ED," which he described as "incredible."&nbsp;

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ED attach my assets worth 14K crores at behest of Govt Banks against debt of 6.2K crores.They restore assets to Banks who recover 9K crores in cash and retain security over 5K crores more.Banks ask Court to make me Bankrupt as they may have to return money to the ED. Incredible.
— Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheVijayMallya/status/1419724187325845508?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The 65-year-old businessman remains on bail in the UK while a "confidential" legal matter, believed to be related to an asylum application, is resolved in connection with the unrelated extradition proceedings.

Mallya, who fled to the UK in March 2016, is wanted in India over a default of ₹90 billion that was loaned to Kingfisher Airlines (KFA) by several banks. India has been seeking his extradition from the UK. He had in the past offered to repay 100 per cent of "public money" but accused the banks and government of refusing his offer.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Following news that IDBI Bank has entirely recovered its debts from the now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines, fugitive tycoon Vijay Mallya criticised banks for claiming he owed them money on Thursday.

Following news that IDBI Bank has entirely recovered its debts from the now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines, fugitive tycoon Vijay Mallya criticised banks for claiming he owed them money on Thursday. Vijay Mallya launched a tirade on Twitter and said, "And the Banks say I owe them money!". He shared a report on IDBI Bank fully recovering its dues from now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines. According to the news clipping, IDBI Bank recovered ₹7.5 billion from Kingfisher. And the Banks say I owe them money ! pic.twitter.com/XnWSjXnnF9 — Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) July 29, 2021 × His Tweet comes after a British court awarded him a bankruptcy order, clearing the way for a consortium of Indian banks led by the State Bank of India (SBI) to seek a global freezing order to recover a debt due by Kingfisher Airlines. On July 26, the fugitive businessman claimed that the Enforcement Directorate is seizing assets "worth ₹140 billion at the behest of government banks against a debt of ₹62 billion." Mallya also tweeted that the SBI-led consortium of banks had asked "court to make me bankrupt as they may have to return money to the ED," which he described as "incredible." ED attach my assets worth 14K crores at behest of Govt Banks against debt of 6.2K crores.They restore assets to Banks who recover 9K crores in cash and retain security over 5K crores more.Banks ask Court to make me Bankrupt as they may have to return money to the ED. Incredible. — Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) July 26, 2021 × The 65-year-old businessman remains on bail in the UK while a "confidential" legal matter, believed to be related to an asylum application, is resolved in connection with the unrelated extradition proceedings. Mallya, who fled to the UK in March 2016, is wanted in India over a default of ₹90 billion that was loaned to Kingfisher Airlines (KFA) by several banks. India has been seeking his extradition from the UK. He had in the past offered to repay 100 per cent of "public money" but accused the banks and government of refusing his offer. (With inputs from agencies)

Vijay Mallya mocks banks for saying he still owes money, shares report

The London High Court declared fugitive Indian businessman Vijay Mallya bankrupt on July 26 in a major victory for Indian banks.

This will clear the way for a group of Indian banks led by the State Bank of India (SBI) to seek a worldwide freezing order to seize Vijay Mallya's Indian assets in order to recover debt owed by his now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines.

"As at 15:42 (UK time), I adjudicate Dr Mallya bankrupt," Chief Insolvencies and Companies Court (ICC) Judge Michael Briggs said in his ruling during a virtual hearing of the Chancery Division of the High Court in London.

The Indian banks, represented by the law firm TLT LLP and barrister Marcia Shekerdemian, had argued for the bankruptcy order to be granted in favour of the Indian banks. 
 
Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/london-court-declares-fugitive-businessman-vijay-mallya-bankrupt-indian-banks-can-realise-debt-400845/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Mallya reportedly attempted to appeal the High Court decision but was denied permission to do so.

An application by a lender consortium led by the SBI to alter their bankruptcy case in favour of surrendering their security over Mallya's assets in India was upheld by a UK court earlier this year in May.

Meanwhile, the 65-year-old businessman remains in the UK on bail pending the resolution of a "secret" court matter, believed to be related to an asylum application, in connection with unrelated extradition proceedings.

His lawyer, Philip Marshall, asked for a stay and a postponement of the ruling while legal challenges in India are still pending.

The judge, however, denied the requests, concluding that there was "insufficient proof" that the debt would be paid in full to the petitioners within a reasonable time. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The London High Court declared fugitive Indian businessman Vijay Mallya bankrupt on July 26 in a major victory for Indian banks. This will clear the way for a group of Indian banks led by the State Bank of India (SBI) to seek a worldwide freezing order to seize Vijay Mallya's Indian assets in order to recover debt owed by his now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines.

The London High Court declared fugitive Indian businessman Vijay Mallya bankrupt on July 26 in a major victory for Indian banks. This will clear the way for a group of Indian banks led by the State Bank of India (SBI) to seek a worldwide freezing order to seize Vijay Mallya's Indian assets in order to recover debt owed by his now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines. "As at 15:42 (UK time), I adjudicate Dr Mallya bankrupt," Chief Insolvencies and Companies Court (ICC) Judge Michael Briggs said in his ruling during a virtual hearing of the Chancery Division of the High Court in London. The Indian banks, represented by the law firm TLT LLP and barrister Marcia Shekerdemian, had argued for the bankruptcy order to be granted in favour of the Indian banks. Watch: Mallya reportedly attempted to appeal the High Court decision but was denied permission to do so. An application by a lender consortium led by the SBI to alter their bankruptcy case in favour of surrendering their security over Mallya's assets in India was upheld by a UK court earlier this year in May. Meanwhile, the 65-year-old businessman remains in the UK on bail pending the resolution of a "secret" court matter, believed to be related to an asylum application, in connection with unrelated extradition proceedings. His lawyer, Philip Marshall, asked for a stay and a postponement of the ruling while legal challenges in India are still pending. The judge, however, denied the requests, concluding that there was "insufficient proof" that the debt would be paid in full to the petitioners within a reasonable time. (With inputs from agencies)

UK court declares Vijay Mallya bankrupt, allowing Indian Banks to pursue recovery

Following the declaration of Vijay Mallya as "bankrupt" by the UK High Court, the fugitive businessman claimed that the Enforcement Directorate is seizing assets "worth ₹140 billion at the behest of government banks against a debt of ₹62 billion."

Mallya tweeted that the SBI-led consortium of banks had asked "court to make me bankrupt as they may have to return money to the ED," which he described as "incredible."&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-court-declares-vijay-mallya-bankrupt-allowing-indian-banks-to-pursue-recovery-400877">Also read | UK court declares Vijay Mallya bankrupt, allowing Indian Banks to pursue recovery</a> 
 
"ED attach my assets worth 14K crores at behest of Govt Banks against debt of 6.2K crores.They restore assets to Banks who recover 9K crores in cash and retain security over 5K crores more.Banks ask Court to make me Bankrupt as they may have to return money to the ED. Incredible," he tweeted.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
ED attach my assets worth 14K crores at behest of Govt Banks against debt of 6.2K crores.They restore assets to Banks who recover 9K crores in cash and retain security over 5K crores more.Banks ask Court to make me Bankrupt as they may have to return money to the ED. Incredible.
— Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheVijayMallya/status/1419724187325845508?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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On July 26, the London High Court declared the fugitive Indian businessman bankrupt, in a major victory for Indian banks.

This will clear the way for the group of Indian banks led by the State Bank of India (SBI) to seek a worldwide freezing order to seize Mallya's Indian assets in order to recover debt owed by his now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines.

"As at 15:42 (UK time), I adjudicate Dr Mallya bankrupt," Chief Insolvencies and Companies Court (ICC) Judge Michael Briggs said in his ruling during a virtual hearing of the Chancery Division of the High Court in London.

The Indian banks, represented by the law firm TLT LLP and barrister Marcia Shekerdemian, had argued for the bankruptcy order to be granted in favour of the Indian banks.

(With inputs from agencies)

Following the declaration of Vijay Mallya as "bankrupt" by the UK High Court, the fugitive businessman claimed that the Enforcement Directorate is seizing assets "worth ₹140 billion at the behest of government banks against a debt of ₹62 billion.

Following the declaration of Vijay Mallya as "bankrupt" by the UK High Court, the fugitive businessman claimed that the Enforcement Directorate is seizing assets "worth ₹140 billion at the behest of government banks against a debt of ₹62 billion." Mallya tweeted that the SBI-led consortium of banks had asked "court to make me bankrupt as they may have to return money to the ED," which he described as "incredible." Also read | UK court declares Vijay Mallya bankrupt, allowing Indian Banks to pursue recovery "ED attach my assets worth 14K crores at behest of Govt Banks against debt of 6.2K crores.They restore assets to Banks who recover 9K crores in cash and retain security over 5K crores more.Banks ask Court to make me Bankrupt as they may have to return money to the ED. Incredible," he tweeted. ED attach my assets worth 14K crores at behest of Govt Banks against debt of 6.2K crores.They restore assets to Banks who recover 9K crores in cash and retain security over 5K crores more.Banks ask Court to make me Bankrupt as they may have to return money to the ED. Incredible. — Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) July 26, 2021 × On July 26, the London High Court declared the fugitive Indian businessman bankrupt, in a major victory for Indian banks. This will clear the way for the group of Indian banks led by the State Bank of India (SBI) to seek a worldwide freezing order to seize Mallya's Indian assets in order to recover debt owed by his now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines. "As at 15:42 (UK time), I adjudicate Dr Mallya bankrupt," Chief Insolvencies and Companies Court (ICC) Judge Michael Briggs said in his ruling during a virtual hearing of the Chancery Division of the High Court in London. The Indian banks, represented by the law firm TLT LLP and barrister Marcia Shekerdemian, had argued for the bankruptcy order to be granted in favour of the Indian banks. (With inputs from agencies)

Attaching ₹140 billion assets over ₹62 billion debt 'incredible': Mallya on being declared bankrupt

While hearing a plea based case on Friday, a&nbsp;division bench of Chief Justice D N Patel and Justice Jyoti Singh observed, “It would be a disaster if vaccines are administered without trials that too in case of children.”

Tia Gupta, a minor, had filed a PIL seeking immediate vaccination for minors between 12 and 17 years of age.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-govt-issues-guidelines-on-covid-19-in-children-says-remdesivir-not-recommended-390531">Indian govt issues guidelines on COVID-19 in children, says Remdesivir not recommended</a>

Based on this plea, an affidavit was submitted by the Centre which said that a government policy will be developed and children will be vaccinated once experts approve.

The Centre notified the High Court that clinical trials for COVID-19 vaccines for children under 18 years of age are in progress and nearing completion.

Kailash Vasudev, appearing for the petitioner, argued that a specific timeline should be established for the completion of vaccine trials for children.

In response to which court officials warned that the case would be dismissed if the petitioner made such submissions. They added&nbsp;a timeline for the research was not possible.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazeneca-vaccine-to-be-tested-on-children-to-test-efficacy-363946">AstraZeneca vaccine to be tested on children to test efficacy</a>

The Centre informed the Delhi High Court that Zydus Cadila's COVID-19 vaccine may be available soon for children in the 12 to 18 year age group.

They added that while the trial of Zydus Cadila for children between the ages of 12 and 18 has been concluded, it is still subject to statutory approvals.

Earlier this month, the Ahmedabad-based pharmaceutical firm sought emergency use approval for ZyCoV-D. World's first Plasmid DNA vaccine, it is administered in three doses.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/need-to-step-up-measures-for-well-being-protection-of-children-during-covid-19-second-wave-sc-judge-383754">Need to step up measures for well-being, protection of children during COVID-19 second wave: SC judge</a>

However, India's drug regulator, Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI), is yet to approve the emergency use authorisation.&nbsp;

In addition, the affidavit claimed that vaccination is of the highest priority at the Center and that all endeavours are being made to reach 100 per cent vaccination in the shortest time possible while taking into account the availability of vaccine doses.

(With inputs from Agencies)

While hearing a plea based case on Friday, a division bench of Chief Justice D N Patel and Justice Jyoti Singh observed, “It would be a disaster if vaccines are administered without trials that too in case of children.

While hearing a plea based case on Friday, a division bench of Chief Justice D N Patel and Justice Jyoti Singh observed, “It would be a disaster if vaccines are administered without trials that too in case of children.” Tia Gupta, a minor, had filed a PIL seeking immediate vaccination for minors between 12 and 17 years of age. Also read | Indian govt issues guidelines on COVID-19 in children, says Remdesivir not recommended Based on this plea, an affidavit was submitted by the Centre which said that a government policy will be developed and children will be vaccinated once experts approve. The Centre notified the High Court that clinical trials for COVID-19 vaccines for children under 18 years of age are in progress and nearing completion. Kailash Vasudev, appearing for the petitioner, argued that a specific timeline should be established for the completion of vaccine trials for children. In response to which court officials warned that the case would be dismissed if the petitioner made such submissions. They added a timeline for the research was not possible. Also read | AstraZeneca vaccine to be tested on children to test efficacy The Centre informed the Delhi High Court that Zydus Cadila's COVID-19 vaccine may be available soon for children in the 12 to 18 year age group. They added that while the trial of Zydus Cadila for children between the ages of 12 and 18 has been concluded, it is still subject to statutory approvals. Earlier this month, the Ahmedabad-based pharmaceutical firm sought emergency use approval for ZyCoV-D. World's first Plasmid DNA vaccine, it is administered in three doses. Also read | Need to step up measures for well-being, protection of children during COVID-19 second wave: SC judge However, India's drug regulator, Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI), is yet to approve the emergency use authorisation. In addition, the affidavit claimed that vaccination is of the highest priority at the Center and that all endeavours are being made to reach 100 per cent vaccination in the shortest time possible while taking into account the availability of vaccine doses. (With inputs from Agencies)

Vaccinating children without clinical trials can be disastrous: Delhi HC

A consortium of Indian banks led by the State Bank of India (SBI) on Tuesday moved a step closer in their attempt to recover debt from loans paid out to Vijay Mallya's now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines after the High Court in London upheld an application to amend their bankruptcy petition, in favour of waiving their security over the businessman's assets in India.&nbsp;

Chief Insolvencies and Companies Court (ICC) Judge Michael Briggs handed down his judgment in favour of the banks to declare there is no public policy that prevents a waiver of security rights, as argued by Mallya's lawyers.&nbsp;

At a virtual hearing, July 26 was set as the date for final arguments for and against granting a bankruptcy order against Mallya after the banks accused him of trying to kick matters into the long grass and called on the bankruptcy petition to be brought to its inevitable end.&nbsp;

“I order that permission be given to amend the petition to read as follows: The Petitioners (banks) having the right to enforce any security held are willing, in the event of a bankruptcy order being made, to give up any such security for the benefit of all the bankrupt's creditors,” Justice Briggs' judgment reads.&nbsp;

"There is nothing in the statutory provisions that prevent the Petitioners from giving up security," he notes.&nbsp;

Mallya's barrister, Philip Marshall, had referenced witness statements of retired Indian judges in previous hearings to reiterate that there is public interest under Indian law by virtue of the banks being nationalised.&nbsp;

However, Justice Briggs found no impediment to the creditors relinquishing their security under Indian law because of the engagement of a principle concerning public interest and favoured the submissions made by retired Indian Supreme Court judge Gopala Gowda at a hearing in December 2020 in this regard.&nbsp;

“In my judgment the simple stance taken by Justice Gowda that Section 47 PIA 1920 is evidence of the ability of a secured creditor to relinquish the creditor's security is to be preferred," the ruling notes.&nbsp;

The Indian banks, represented by the law firm TLT LLP and barrister Marcia Shekerdemian, were also granted costs in totality for the petition hearings, as the ‘overall successful' party in the case.&nbsp;

"Dr Mallya should have been extradited by now. He was refused permission to go to the Supreme Court in May last year," Shekerdemian pointed out, in reference to one of Mallya's defence planks that the cases against him are 'politically motivated'.&nbsp;

The 65-year-old businessman remains on bail in the UK while a 'confidential' legal matter, believed to be related to an asylum application, is resolved in connection with the unrelated extradition proceedings. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A consortium of Indian banks led by the State Bank of India (SBI) on Tuesday moved a step closer in their attempt to recover debt from loans paid out to Vijay Mallya's now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines after the High Court in London upheld an application to amend their bankruptcy petition, in favour of waiving their security over the businessman's assets in India.

A consortium of Indian banks led by the State Bank of India (SBI) on Tuesday moved a step closer in their attempt to recover debt from loans paid out to Vijay Mallya's now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines after the High Court in London upheld an application to amend their bankruptcy petition, in favour of waiving their security over the businessman's assets in India. Chief Insolvencies and Companies Court (ICC) Judge Michael Briggs handed down his judgment in favour of the banks to declare there is no public policy that prevents a waiver of security rights, as argued by Mallya's lawyers. At a virtual hearing, July 26 was set as the date for final arguments for and against granting a bankruptcy order against Mallya after the banks accused him of trying to kick matters into the long grass and called on the bankruptcy petition to be brought to its inevitable end. “I order that permission be given to amend the petition to read as follows: The Petitioners (banks) having the right to enforce any security held are willing, in the event of a bankruptcy order being made, to give up any such security for the benefit of all the bankrupt's creditors,” Justice Briggs' judgment reads. "There is nothing in the statutory provisions that prevent the Petitioners from giving up security," he notes. Mallya's barrister, Philip Marshall, had referenced witness statements of retired Indian judges in previous hearings to reiterate that there is public interest under Indian law by virtue of the banks being nationalised. However, Justice Briggs found no impediment to the creditors relinquishing their security under Indian law because of the engagement of a principle concerning public interest and favoured the submissions made by retired Indian Supreme Court judge Gopala Gowda at a hearing in December 2020 in this regard. “In my judgment the simple stance taken by Justice Gowda that Section 47 PIA 1920 is evidence of the ability of a secured creditor to relinquish the creditor's security is to be preferred," the ruling notes. The Indian banks, represented by the law firm TLT LLP and barrister Marcia Shekerdemian, were also granted costs in totality for the petition hearings, as the ‘overall successful' party in the case. "Dr Mallya should have been extradited by now. He was refused permission to go to the Supreme Court in May last year," Shekerdemian pointed out, in reference to one of Mallya's defence planks that the cases against him are 'politically motivated'. The 65-year-old businessman remains on bail in the UK while a 'confidential' legal matter, believed to be related to an asylum application, is resolved in connection with the unrelated extradition proceedings. (With inputs from agencies)

Vijay Mallya loses bankruptcy petition amendment High Court battle in UK 

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