SC Halts Execution In rape of minor
The SC has stayed the execution of a man sentenced to death for the 2018 rape and murder of a three-year-old girl in Gurugram. A bench of Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta and NV Anjaria passed the order while hearing the convict’s appeal against the Punjab and Haryana HC’s confirmation of the death penalty. The SC sought original case records, ordered a psychological evaluation of the convict and called for reports on his prison conduct and probation assessments. The matter will be heard after 12 weeks. The convict claims he has been falsely implicated.
Custody Deaths Spark SC PIL
The SC has suo motu registered a PIL over the lack of functional CCTV cameras in police stations, following reports of 11 deaths in custody over recent months. The court recalled its 2018 order mandating CCTV in police stations to curb human rights abuses and emphasised compliance. A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta stressed that cameras must cover all critical areas — lock-ups, entry, exit points, corridors — with night vision and audio, storing footage for at least one year. The 2020 directive also extended to central agencies like the CBI, ED, and NIA. The move aims to enforce transparency, accountability and safeguard citizens' rights amid concerns over custodial violence.
Tribal Identity Debate Erupts in MP
Madhya Pradesh Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar sparked a political row by stating tribals are Adivasis, not Hindus, urging pride in indigenous identity. Speaking in Chhindwara, he emphasised preserving tribal heritage. His remarks drew sharp criticism from Union Minister Durga Das Uikey, who called them divisive and misleading. Congress leader Ramu Tekam defended Singhar, framing the statement as tribal pride, not anti-Hinduism. The BJP sees this as a challenge to its narrative of tribal inclusion within Hinduism. Political observers say the Congress risks polarisation even as it may consolidate tribal support. The controversy could influence tribal voting ahead of elections.
Bihar strike draws mixed response
The NDA's five-hour Bihar bandh, called to protest alleged abuse against Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s late mother during a Congress event in Darbhanga, received a mixed response. While BJP and allies like JD(U), LJP, and HAM actively supported the bandh, reports emerged of BJP workers allegedly misbehaving with civilians.