Legal News

A Bench of the Bombay High Court at Kolhapur – My Views : Justice AS Oka Writes Yesterday, on 18th August 2025, a historic moment unfolded in the judicial landscape of India as the Bombay High Court Bench at Kolhapur officially started functioning. This long-awaited development marks a new chapter in the history of the Indian judiciary. The opening ceremony, held on Sunday, was graced by the Hon’ble Chief Justice of India, making it a truly landmark occasion for the legal fraternity. Lawyers, judges, and citizens alike have welcomed the establishment of the new Bench, which is expected to bring justice closer to the people of six districts of Maharashtra. Justice Abhay Shreeniwas Oka, in his reflections on this occasion, extended heartfelt congratulations to all members of the Bar Associations who consistently fought and advocated for the establishment of this Bench at Kolhapur. He emphasized that this achievement is not just the success of one institution, but the collective voice of the people and the legal fraternity. At the same time, Justice Oka candidly expressed his views on the decision-making process adopted for setting up the Bench. He made it clear that his intention was not to revisit the past or question the achievement, but to ensure that in the future, a more transparent, consultative, and structured process should be followed whenever such important judicial decisions are made. Justice Oka also highlighted his willingness to train young advocates from the six districts under the jurisdiction of the Kolhapur Bench, so that they are better prepared to practice before the High Court. This noble thought underlines the importance of capacity building in the legal profession and empowering the next generation of lawyers. Why the Kolhapur Bench Matters It brings justice closer to people in western Maharashtra, reducing the burden of travel to Mumbai. It enhances the efficiency of the judicial system by distributing the case load. It opens new opportunities for young lawyers and law students in the region. Conclusion The establishment of the Bombay High Court Bench at Kolhapur is a remarkable milestone in Indian judicial history. While we celebrate this historic step, Justice Oka’s reflections remind us of the need for continuous improvement in our decision-making processes. His call for nurturing young advocates ensures that this Bench will not just be a building, but a thriving hub of justice, learning, and service. At Krishna Judiciary Coaching Chandigarh, we believe such developments inspire law students and aspiring judges across India to understand the evolving nature of the judiciary and prepare themselves for meaningful legal careers. 👉 For expert guidance in Judiciary Coaching, CLAT, Law Entrance, and UPSC preparation, connect with Krishna Judiciary Coaching Chandigarh at www.krishnastudyacademy.com or call us at 📞 9988003622.

Supreme Court Begins Hearing on Presidential Reference on Bill-Assent Timelines 1. What’s Happening? The Supreme Court has initiated hearings on a Presidential Reference concerning time limits for Governors and the President to grant assent to state bills under Articles 200 and 201 of the Constitution Live LawThe News MinuteThe Times of IndiaScroll.in. The reference probes whether the Court can impose judicially enforceable timelines or procedural directions on these constitutional authorities Hindustan Timesfidelegal.comScroll.in. 2. Case Background This reference follows the Supreme Court’s landmark April 8, 2025 judgment (Tamil Nadu Governor case), where a two-judge bench declared undue delays by the Governor in assenting bills unconstitutional and legally invalidated them Live LawThe News MinuteLive Law Hindi. The Court had imposed a three-month timeline for both Governors and the President to act—any undue delay would trigger “deemed assent”, effectively approving the bill automatically Live LawLive Law HindiThe News MinuteScroll.in. 3. Key Questions Posed by the President President Droupadi Murmu raised 14 critical constitutional questions, including: Whether Governors and the President are bound by advice from the Council of Ministers (Article 200). If their discretion under Articles 200 and 201 is subject to judicial review. Whether courts can enforce “deemed assent” mechanisms using Article 142. Whether imposing timelines absent in the Constitution is valid and justiciable Live Law. 4. Supreme Court’s Hearing Schedule The Constitution Bench, led by CJI B.R. Gavai (with Justices Surya Kant, Vikram Nath, P.S. Narasimha, and A.S. Chandurkar), began the hearing on August 19, 2025 Live LawLive Law HindiThe News Minute. States of Kerala and Tamil Nadu were given the first hour to raise preliminary objections. Days designated for hearing: Supporting parties (Attorney General and the Union): August 19, 20, 21, and 26. Opposing parties: August 28, and then September 2, 3, and 9. Rejoinders (if any): September 10. Written submissions were required to be filed by August 12, 2025, with Aman Mehta and Misha Rohatgi appointed as nodal counsel for the Union and the opponents, respectively Live LawLive Law HindiThe News Minute. 5. Key Legal Debates The Centre, via Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, contended that imposing strict timelines risks constitutional disorder by having one branch encroach on another’s powers. He argued such issues should be resolved through political, not judicial mechanisms The Pioneer. Legal scholars remain divided: Proponents argue timelines enhance accountability and prevent legislative logjams. Critics warn of judicial overreach when using Article 142 to impose such directives