SC November 2024: The Lawyers’ Post Conspectus

The Lawyers’ Post Conspectus for November 2024, where we compile and analyze the month’s most significant judgments from the Supreme Court of India. This edition brings insights into landmark decisions shaping the landscape of Indian law. From co-tenancy and property disputes to criminal justice and procedural standards, these rulings emphasize the judicial standards that underpin India’s legal framework. This curated collection aims to support legal professionals, law students, and individuals interested in the implications of these high-stakes cases.

1. Ramachandra Reddy v. Ramulu Ammal
   Partition Rights Affirmed Under Coparcenary Property Law
   The Supreme Court upheld the right of Govindammal’s heirs to a 2/3 share in the joint family property, stemming from a settlement deed. The Court rejected claims of an oral partition and clarified that such deeds must align with legal criteria for enforceability. The judgment emphasizes the importance of documentary evidence over unsubstantiated oral claims in property disputes.
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2. Devendra Kumar v. State of Chhattisgarh
   Conviction Upheld in Murder Linked to Land Dispute
   The Court dismissed the appeal against the life sentence under Section 302 IPC, affirming the prosecution’s evidence, including eyewitness testimonies and the motive rooted in a land dispute. It rejected claims of a sudden fight and heat-of-passion mitigation, maintaining the charge of premeditated murder.
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3. State of Haryana v. Amin Lal
   Adverse Possession Claims Invalidated Against Private Landowners
   The Supreme Court ruled that the State cannot claim adverse possession against private landowners, reaffirming that such a defense implies recognition of the plaintiff’s title. It held that permissive possession cannot mature into adverse possession, especially where documentary evidence supports ownership claims.
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4. Madhya Pradesh Madhya Kshetra Vidyut Vitran Company v. Bapuna Alcobrew Pvt. Ltd.
   Limitation on Electricity Dues Under Section 56 of the 2003 Act
   The Court clarified that electricity dues cannot be recovered beyond two years as per Section 56(2) of the Electricity Act, 2003. It quashed retrospective demands for dues from 1996–2000, deeming them time-barred, and emphasized that recovery must adhere to statutory limitations.
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5. Shambhu Chauhan v. Ram Kirpal alias Chirkut
   Revisional Jurisdiction Limited to Legal and Evidential Errors
   The Court reaffirmed that revisional authorities under the U.P. Consolidation of Holdings Act can only interfere with findings that are perverse or unsupported by evidence. It restored the trial court’s decision favoring the original tenants, emphasizing procedural regularity.
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6. M/S Ajay Protech Pvt. Ltd. v. General Manager
   Tribunal’s Mandate Extended Considering COVID-19 Delays
   The Supreme Court extended the mandate of an arbitral tribunal, citing sufficient cause due to delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. It clarified that Section 29A(4) of the Arbitration Act permits extensions when justified, even after the mandate expires, if proceedings resume promptly.
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7. Kamaruddin Dastagir Sanadi v. State of Karnataka
   Conviction for Cheating and Abetment of Suicide Restored
   The Court upheld the conviction under Sections 417 and 306 IPC, finding sufficient evidence of deceit in a marriage promise leading to the victim’s suicide. It emphasized the role of credible dying declarations and circumstantial evidence in affirming the conviction.
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8. Subrata Choudhury v. State of Assam
   Fresh Complaint After Negative Final Report Allowed
   The Supreme Court clarified that a second complaint on the same facts is permissible if the first complaint results in a negative final report, provided the requirements of Section 2(d) CrPC are satisfied. It emphasized the Magistrate’s discretion in treating a protest petition as a complaint.
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9. Prashant v. State of NCT of Delhi
   Quashing Denied in False Promise of Marriage Case
   The Court upheld the High Court’s decision refusing to quash an FIR alleging rape under false promise of marriage, emphasizing that contradictions in the complainant’s statements do not negate a prima facie case under Sections 376(2)(n) and 506 IPC.
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10. Manik Panjabrao Kalmegh v. Executive Engineer Bembla Project
    High Court Denies Cumulative Increase in Land Compensation
    The Supreme Court reviewed compensation for acquired land, fruit trees, and borewells, holding that cumulative annual increases in land valuation were discretionary. Compensation for awala trees and borewells was rejected for lack of admissible evidence.
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11. Anoop M. v. Gireeshkumar T.M.
    Higher Qualifications Excluded in Recruitment Notification Interpretation
    The Court affirmed the Kerala PSC’s adherence to prescribed qualifications for LDC recruitment, rejecting higher or equivalent qualifications unless explicitly allowed. It emphasized respect for previously adjudicated positions in recruitment matters.
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12. Dr. Rajiv Verghese v. Rose Chakkrammankkil Francis
    Interim Maintenance Adjusted to Ensure Reasonable Support
    The Court balanced competing claims by modifying interim maintenance to Rs.1,20,000 per month for the wife, considering the husband’s income and the couple’s prior standard of living. It underscored equitable support during pending divorce proceedings.
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13. Justice Shailendra Singh v. Union of India
    Uniform Pension Rules for High Court Judges
    The Court addressed discrepancies in provident fund contributions for High Court judges from the judiciary. It underscored uniformity and financial independence as essential for judicial impartiality, directing consistent implementation of pensionary benefits.
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14. Aligarh Muslim University v. Naresh Agarwal
    Minority Institution Rights Under Article 30 Reexamined
    The Supreme Court addressed whether AMU qualifies as a minority institution under Article 30(1), holding that amendments to the AMU Act did not alter the findings of Azeez Basha v. Union of India. The judgment underscored the conjunctive reading of “establish and administer,” and clarified minority status claims require independent establishment by the community.
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15. HPCL Biofuels Ltd. v. Shahaji Bhanudas Bhad
    Arbitration Invoked Despite IBC Proceedings
    The Court permitted arbitration under Section 11(6) of the Arbitration Act, ruling that insolvency proceedings under the IBC do not bar arbitration when claims predate insolvency. It clarified the procedural distinction between corporate resolution processes and arbitral dispute resolutions.
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16. Rajive Raturi v. Union of India
    Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities Reinforced
    The judgment emphasized compliance with accessibility standards under the RPWD Act, 2016. It directed State and Union Territories to expedite barrier-free infrastructure initiatives. Non-compliance was highlighted, with NALSAR tasked to report gaps and provide solutions.
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17. Commissioner of Customs v. Canon India Pvt. Ltd.
    Proper Officer Requirement in Customs Law Affirmed
    Revisiting the Canon India precedent, the Supreme Court reaffirmed that only designated proper officers under Section 2(34) of the Customs Act, 1962, can issue show-cause notices. It invalidated retrospective amendments attempting to bypass the statutory requirement.
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18. Hetram @ Babli v. State of Rajasthan
    Cross-Examination Essential in Section 319 Applications
    The Supreme Court clarified the standard for adding accused persons under Section 319 CrPC. It held that cross-examination evidence must be considered if recorded and omitted testimony can constitute contradictions, invalidating such additions.
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19. XYZ v. State of Gujarat
    Quashing of Atrocities Act Charges Requires Victim’s Presence
    The Court emphasized that settlements in heinous crimes under the SC/ST Act must be verified in the victim’s presence. It set aside a High Court order that quashed proceedings without due victim verification, citing affidavits as insufficient.
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20. Crystal Transport Pvt. Ltd. v. Fathima Fareedunisa
    Dissolution of Firm Subject to Final Account Reconciliation
    The Supreme Court upheld the preliminary decree for firm dissolution, directing comprehensive final account reconciliation. It clarified the application of Sections 37 and 48 of the Partnership Act and Rule 15 of CPC in resolving partnership disputes.
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21. C. Selvarani v. Special Secretary-Cum-District Collector
    Scheduled Caste Status Denied on Lack of Proof of Religious Affiliation
    The Supreme Court upheld the denial of a Scheduled Caste certificate to the appellant, emphasizing the necessity of adherence to criteria under the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1964. It reiterated that eligibility requires professing Hinduism, Buddhism, or Sikhism, rejecting claims based solely on ancestry without current religious conformity.
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22. Noida SEZ Authority v. Manish Agarwal
    Insolvency Resolution Overriding Lease Payment Defaults Clarified
    The Supreme Court dismissed the appeal of the NOIDA SEZ Authority, holding that the approval of the resolution plan under IBC overrode lease payment defaults. It affirmed that operational creditors’ dues must conform to the resolution framework, even if full claims are not admitted.
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23. Lifeforce Cryobank Sciences Inc v. Cryoviva Biotech Pvt. Ltd.
    Arbitration Dismissed Over Lack of Privity in Assigned Agreements
    The Court declined to appoint an arbitrator, ruling that the petitioner lacked contractual privity. It held that the assignment of rights under an agreement without explicit consent of the respondents does not create binding obligations for arbitration under the 1996 Act.
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24. Payal Sharma v. State of Punjab
    Quashment of FIR for Matrimonial Allegations Reviewed
    The Supreme Court restored criminal proceedings against a wife for alleged matrimonial offences under Sections 406 and 498-A IPC. It held that general allegations in matrimonial cases require evidence scrutiny, and dismissing such complaints prematurely undermines the judicial process.
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25. Rushi Thapa v. Oriental Insurance Co. Ltd.
    Enhanced Compensation for Child Accident Victim Affirmed
    The Court upheld the High Court’s enhancement of compensation for a child accident victim with 75% permanent disability. It applied the principle of future earnings potential based on minimum wage, recognizing the long-term impact of disability on quality of life.
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26. In Re: Directions in Demolition Cases
    Guidelines Issued for Demolition Actions Across India
    The Supreme Court framed detailed guidelines for demolitions to prevent arbitrary actions against accused individuals. It mandated notice, fair hearing, and proportionality, emphasizing due process under Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution.
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27. CCS Haryana Agricultural University v. Monika
    Eligibility for Outsourced Workers in Government Appointments Refined
    The Court overturned a High Court order granting appointment to an outsourced worker, holding that experience in non-regular posts does not equate to sanctioned positions. It emphasized strict adherence to recruitment advertisement criteria.
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28. State of Andhra Pradesh v. Dr. Rao V.B.J. Chelikani
    Land Allotment to Cooperative Societies Invalidated for Violating Equality Principles
    The Supreme Court upheld the Andhra Pradesh High Court’s decision to quash land allotments made under discriminatory government orders favoring certain societal groups, including MPs, MLAs, and Judges. It affirmed that such preferential allotments violated Article 14, mandating fresh allotments through transparent and non-arbitrary policies.
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29. State Bank of India v. Navin Kumar Sinha
    Departmental Proceedings Post-Superannuation Ruled Void
    The Court invalidated disciplinary proceedings initiated against an SBI officer after his superannuation. It held that extending proceedings without clear contractual or statutory authority violates service rules, thereby restoring the respondent’s service benefits.
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30. Shyam Kumar Inani v. Vinod Agrawal
    Specific Performance Denied Due to Deficiency in Agreement Validity
    The Court dismissed appeals seeking specific performance of agreements for sale of agricultural land, citing invalidity due to non-compliance with statutory requirements. It emphasized the necessity of valid registration and adherence to revenue laws in property transactions.
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31. Sonam Lakra v. State of Chhattisgarh
    Elected Sarpanch’s Removal Overturned for Procedural Impropriety
    The Supreme Court reinstated the appellant as Sarpanch, finding her removal arbitrary and procedurally flawed. It emphasized adherence to principles of natural justice and accountability in administrative decisions involving elected representatives.
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32. Tej Prakash Pathak v. Rajasthan High Court
    Changing Recruitment Rules During Process Invalidated
    The Court held that imposing additional qualifying criteria mid-recruitment violates candidates’ rights under Article 14. It reaffirmed that procedural fairness requires adhering to pre-declared “rules of the game” in public employment.
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33. Aslam Ismail Khan Deshmukh v. ASAP Fluids Pvt. Ltd.
    Arbitration Dispute on Shareholder Rights Allowed to Proceed
    The Court appointed an arbitrator to resolve disputes under a shareholders’ agreement, reaffirming the enforceability of arbitration clauses in commercial contracts under the Arbitration & Conciliation Act, 1996.
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34. Dr. Balram Singh v. Union of India
    Challenge to Inclusion of ‘Secular’ and ‘Socialist’ in Preamble Dismissed
    The Supreme Court dismissed challenges to the 42nd Constitutional Amendment, upholding Parliament’s authority to amend the Preamble. It affirmed that secularism and socialism align with the Constitution’s basic structure and evolving democratic principles.
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35. Tinku v. State of Haryana & Ors.
    Compassionate Appointment Rejected Due to Policy Limits
    The Supreme Court upheld the denial of a compassionate appointment claim after a lapse of 11 years since the appellant’s father’s death. It ruled that such claims must adhere to the timeline specified in government policies, emphasizing that compassionate appointments are exceptions to the standard recruitment process and must be construed strictly.
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36. Ramkrishna Medical College v. State of Madhya Pradesh
    Colleges Denied Compensatory Seats for Interim Order Delay
    The Supreme Court dismissed appeals from medical colleges seeking compensatory MBBS seats, ruling that procedural delays due to interim orders do not entitle institutions to special concessions. The judgment clarifies the boundaries of judicial intervention in academic seat allotments.
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37. Anjum Kadari & Anr. v. Union of India
    Madarsa Act Struck Down for Violating Constitutional Secularism
    The Court declared the Uttar Pradesh Board of Madarsa Education Act, 2004 unconstitutional for violating secular principles and Articles 14 and 21A. It noted that excessive State control infringes on minority educational rights under Article 30.
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38. Mahesh Damu Khare v. State of Maharashtra & Anr.
    FIR Quashing Denied in False Promise of Marriage Case
    The Supreme Court refused to quash an FIR alleging rape and cheating, emphasizing that accusations involving breach of trust and coercion require full investigation. It reiterated that offenses under Section 376 IPC are societal wrongs warranting detailed inquiry.
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39. Manjit Singh & Anr. v. Darshana Devi & Ors.
    Specific Performance Granted in Oral Agreement Case
    The Court restored a decree for specific performance based on an oral agreement, dismissing claims of bona fide purchase under Section 19(b) of the Specific Relief Act. It stressed that subsequent purchasers must prove good faith and absence of prior knowledge of the original contract.
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40. Indore Vikas Pradhikaran v. Shri Humad Jain Samaj Trust
    Fresh Tender Validated Despite Higher Bid Rejection
    The Supreme Court upheld IDA’s decision to issue a fresh tender despite receiving a higher bid earlier, citing adherence to terms in the Notice Inviting Tender (NIT). It ruled that bidders do not acquire vested rights to contracts until formal acceptance.
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41. M/s Arif Azim Co. Ltd. v. M/s Micromax Informatics FZE
    Arbitration Invoked Amid Dispute Over Jurisdiction and Seat
    The Court ordered arbitration in a dispute over a distributorship agreement, clarifying the interpretation of jurisdiction and the “seat” versus “venue” distinction under the Arbitration & Conciliation Act, 1996. It upheld the autonomy of parties in arbitration agreements.
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42. State Bank of India & Ors. v. Murari Lal Jalan & Anr.
    Non-Implementation of Resolution Plan Leads to Liquidation Order
    The Supreme Court upheld the liquidation of Jet Airways under Section 33(3) of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016, citing non-compliance with the approved resolution plan. It ruled that the adjustment of the performance bank guarantee as the first tranche payment violated the resolution terms and regulatory provisions.
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43. Ramji Lal Bairwa v. State of Rajasthan
    Compromise Rejected in Child Abuse FIR Quashing
    The Court reversed the Rajasthan High Court’s order quashing an FIR based on a compromise between the accused and the victim’s family. It held that serious allegations under POCSO and SC/ST Atrocities Act impact public interest and cannot be settled privately.
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44. Karakkattu Muhammed Basheer v. State of Kerala
    Circumstantial Evidence Supports Conviction in Murder Case
    The Supreme Court upheld the conviction and life sentence under Section 302 IPC, emphasizing the strong chain of circumstantial evidence linking the accused to the murder. It highlighted the sufficiency of forensic and testimonial evidence in cases with no direct witnesses.
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45. M.R. Ajayan v. State of Kerala & Ors.
    Allegations of Evidence Tampering Quashed for Lack of Jurisdiction
    The Supreme Court upheld the Kerala High Court’s decision quashing proceedings under Section 482 CrPC, ruling that cognizance in evidence tampering cases is barred without appropriate judicial sanction under Section 195(1)(b) CrPC.
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46. Aruna Dhanyakumar Doshi v. State of Telangana
    Quashing of FIR Denied in Elder Harassment Case
    The Court refused to quash an FIR alleging harassment under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007. It noted sufficient allegations requiring investigation and upheld the senior citizen’s rights under the Act.
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47. Directorate of Enforcement v. Bibhu Prasad Acharya
    Prior Sanction Under CrPC Required for Prosecution of Public Servants
    The Court clarified that Section 197 CrPC applies to PMLA proceedings against public servants, requiring prior sanction for cognizance of offenses committed during official duties. It emphasized the interplay between PMLA and CrPC provisions.
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48. Suresh Chandra Tiwari v. State of Uttarakhand
    Conviction Altered from Murder to Culpable Homicide
    The Court modified the conviction from Section 302 IPC to Section 304 Part I IPC due to lack of premeditation, reducing the sentence to seven years. It emphasized proportionality in sentencing based on the evidence.
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49. Didde Srinivas v. State SHO, Podduru Police Station
    Conviction Modified to Lesser Offense for Lack of Intent Evidence
    The Supreme Court altered the conviction under Section 376 IPC to Section 354 IPC, citing insufficient evidence of intent to commit rape but affirming the offense of assault with intent to outrage modesty. The Court upheld concurrent findings of trespass and reduced the sentence proportionally.
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50. The State of Punjab v. M/S Ferrous Alloy Forgings P Ltd.
    High Court Overreach in Writ Jurisdiction Addressed in Stamp Duty Refund Case
    The Court set aside the High Court’s directions on stamp duty refund in a sale certificate dispute, emphasizing adherence to statutory provisions under the Registration Act, 1908, and judicial restraint in writ jurisdiction.
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51. Kirloskar Ferrous Industries Ltd. v. Union of India
    Rule Validity for Mineral Royalties Upheld Under MMDR Act
    The Supreme Court upheld the validity of royalty computation rules under the Mineral Conservation and Development Rules, 2017. It affirmed the proportionality of royalty based on the average sale price, supporting sustainable revenue measures under the MMDR Act, 1957.
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52. K.S. Muralidhar v. R. Subbulakshmi
    Enhanced Compensation Awarded for Accident-Related Disability
    The Supreme Court increased compensation for a claimant with 100% functional disability from a vehicular accident, applying enhanced future prospects and non-pecuniary damages. It underscored adherence to principles from Pranay Sethi and Benson George.
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53. In Re: Manoj Tibrewal Akash
    Unlawful Demolition Without Compensation Held Unconstitutional
    The Court criticized authorities for demolishing private property without notice or compensation during road widening. It mandated proportional compensation and procedural safeguards, emphasizing Article 21 and due process under statutory law.
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54. Kali Charan v. State of U.P.
    Urgency Clause Misuse in Land Acquisition Overturned
    The Court invalidated land acquisition under urgency provisions of the Land Acquisition Act, 1894, noting lack of genuine public purpose and procedural arbitrariness. It restored property rights to affected landowners, enforcing strict adherence to Section 5A.
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55. Rajneesh Kumar v. Ved Prakash
    Litigant Negligence Bars Delay Condonation in Appeal Filing
    The Court upheld dismissal of an appeal delayed by 534 days, holding that negligence by counsel does not excuse litigants from due diligence. It reiterated that condonation of delay requires bona fide reasons, absent in this case.
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56. Nitin Mahadeo Jawale v. Bhaskar Mahadeo Mutke
    Delay in Filing Written Statement Beyond 4.5 Years Rejected
    The Supreme Court upheld the Bombay High Court’s decision rejecting condonation of a 4.5-year delay in filing a written statement, reiterating that negligence or blame on counsel cannot excuse such long and inordinate delays. It emphasized the litigant’s duty to act with vigilance in judicial proceedings.
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57. Kallakuri Pattabhiramaswamy v. Kallakuri Kamaraju
    Property Rights Clarified in Succession Disputes Under Partition Deeds
    The Court upheld the lower court’s ruling on partition claims, clarifying that rights under a partition deed granting life enjoyment to a beneficiary cannot be transformed into absolute ownership absent clear legal provisions. It rejected claims under the Hindu Succession Act to alter the deed’s terms.
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58. Ganapati Bhikarao Naik v. Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited
    Employment Rights of Land Losers’ Family Reviewed
    The Supreme Court evaluated the legality of a termination linked to false claims of familial ties for employment under a rehabilitation package. It upheld the inquiry findings and confirmed the termination, emphasizing procedural fairness in disciplinary proceedings.
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59. Union of India v. Wing Commander M.S. Mander
    Tribunal’s Conviction Reversal for Lack of Comprehensive Evaluation Overturned
    The Supreme Court reinstated the GCM’s conviction for a lesser offense of culpable homicide. It criticized the Armed Forces Tribunal for overlooking vital evidentiary and procedural aspects, reinforcing judicial scrutiny in military disciplinary cases.
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60. Central Organisation for Railway Electrification v. M/s ECI SPIC SMO MCML (JV)
    Arbitrator Appointment Process in Public Contracts Reevaluated
    The Court referred the constitution of arbitral tribunals under public contracts to a larger bench, questioning unilateral panel-based appointments’ compliance with neutrality principles under Section 12(5) and Article 14 of the Constitution.
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61. Nabha Power Limited v. Punjab State Power Corporation Limited
    Interpretation of Mega Power Policy Linked to Bidder Obligations
    The Supreme Court upheld the dismissal of claims for additional benefits under the Mega Power Policy due to the bidder’s failure to meet policy requirements. It clarified that contractual terms cannot override explicit statutory or policy conditions.
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62. Life Insurance Corporation of India v. Om Prakash
    Termination for Abandonment Without Adequate Notice Set Aside
    The Court upheld lower court findings invalidating LIC’s dismissal of an employee for abandonment without proper inquiry or adherence to procedural requirements under the LIC Staff Regulations. It directed reinstatement with consequential benefits.
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63. M/s Bajaj Alliance General Insurance Co. Ltd. v. Rambha Devi & Ors.
    Reassessment of Light Motor Vehicle License for Transport Vehicle Use
    The Supreme Court revisited the interpretation of Section 2(21) and Section 10(2) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, holding that separate endorsements for driving transport vehicles below 7,500 kg gross weight are unnecessary for LMV license holders. This decision reconciles conflicting rulings and emphasizes the harmonious construction of statutory provisions.
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64. Goqii Technologies Pvt. Ltd. v. Sokrati Technologies Pvt. Ltd.
    Arbitration Denied for Lack of Bona Fide Dispute Evidence
    The Court upheld the Bombay High Court’s refusal to appoint an arbitrator, citing insufficient evidence of valid disputes under the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996. The appellant’s claims were deemed speculative and unsupported by the audit report, precluding arbitration invocation.
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65. Siddamsetty Infra Projects Pvt. Ltd. v. Katta Sujatha Reddy & Ors.
    Review Jurisdiction Limited in Specific Performance Cases
    The Court dismissed the petitioner’s plea to review a 2022 judgment on specific performance, reaffirming that review jurisdiction under Article 137 of the Constitution is confined to errors apparent on the face of the record, absent in this case.
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66. Sonu Agnihotri v. Chandra Shekhar & Ors.
    Adverse Judicial Remarks Expunged by Supreme Court
    The Court expunged adverse remarks against a judicial officer by the Delhi High Court, emphasizing that such observations without foundation erode institutional integrity. Directions were issued for cautious exercise of discretionary judicial commentary.
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67. M/s Bharti Airtel Ltd. v. Commissioner of Central Excise, Pune
    MSPs Entitled to CENVAT Credit for Mobile Tower Components
    The Court ruled in favor of mobile service providers (MSPs), holding that towers and pre-fabricated buildings qualify as capital goods under the CENVAT Credit Rules, 2004, enabling input tax credits. It resolved conflicting High Court rulings on the issue.
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68. X v. State of Rajasthan & Anr.
    Bail in Rape Case Revoked for Pre-Trial Release Discrepancy Analysis
    The Supreme Court revoked bail granted by the Rajasthan High Court in a rape case, highlighting that pre-trial discrepancies should not undermine the victim’s testimony at the bail stage. It emphasized allowing trial completion before bail considerations.
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69. Vijaya Singh & Anr. v. State of Uttarakhand
    Conviction in Dowry Death Case Upheld Based on Circumstantial Evidence
    The Supreme Court upheld life sentences for a husband and mother-in-law in a dowry death case, finding the circumstantial evidence chain complete. It emphasized the weight of consistent testimonies despite contradictions raised by the appellants.
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70. Ramachandran & Ors. v. Vijayan & Ors.
    Devolution of Property Governed by Marumakkathayam Law Explained
    The Supreme Court upheld the High Court’s decision affirming that disputed properties belonged to the matrilineal tharwad under Marumakkathayam law. It clarified the non-binding nature of alienations made by individual members without consent from the tharwad. The judgment reinforced traditional principles of matrilineal succession.
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71. R. Kandasamy & Ors. v. T.R.K. Sarawathy & Ors.
    Specific Performance Denied Due to Buyer’s Lack of Readiness
    The Court set aside the High Court’s decree granting specific performance, reinstating the trial court’s finding that the buyer failed to demonstrate readiness to perform her contractual obligations. It emphasized adherence to stipulated timelines in sale agreements when time is of the essence.
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72. Gurmeet Singh & Ors. v. State of Punjab & Ors.
    Benefits Denied Under Proficiency Step-Up Scheme for Work-Charged Period
    The Supreme Court held that work-charged service prior to regularization cannot be counted for benefits under the Proficiency Step-Up Scheme unless explicitly permitted by policy. The Court dismissed claims based on perceived equal treatment violations under Article 14.
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73. Satyendra Singh v. State of Uttar Pradesh & Anr.
    Procedural Deficiencies in Disciplinary Inquiry Result in Relief
    The Court restored the State Public Services Tribunal’s decision quashing a disciplinary order for non-compliance with Rule 7(3) of the U.P. Government Servant Discipline and Appeal Rules, 1999. It reiterated the necessity of evidence-based inquiries in imposing major penalties.
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74. State of Karnataka v. Chandrasha
    Acquittal in Corruption Case Overturned; Trial Court’s Findings Restored
    The Supreme Court reinstated the trial court’s conviction under Sections 7 and 13(1)(d) of the Prevention of Corruption Act. It emphasized the presumption under Section 20 of the Act and the failure of the accused to rebut the prosecution’s evidence.
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75. Sunny @ Santosh Bhosale v. State of Maharashtra
    Conviction for Murder Affirmed Based on Eyewitness and Circumstantial Evidence
    The Court upheld the life sentence for murder under Section 302 IPC, emphasizing the coherence of witness testimonies and corroborative evidence. It dismissed contentions of material contradictions and inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case.
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76. Sangram Sadashiv Suryavanshi v. State of Maharashtra
    Bail Granted in Counterfeit Currency Case on Long Incarceration Grounds
    The Supreme Court granted bail to the appellant accused of offenses under Sections 489A, 489B, and 489C IPC due to prolonged incarceration and delayed trial. It criticized routine High Court practices of fixing unrealistic timeframes for trial completion, reiterating the principle that bail is the norm and jail the exception.
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77. Siddique v. State of Kerala & Anr.
    Anticipatory Bail Granted in Sexual Offense Case Citing Delayed Complaint
    The Court allowed anticipatory bail for the appellant under Sections 376 and 506 IPC, emphasizing the eight-year delay in filing the complaint. It directed compliance with bail conditions to ensure cooperation in the investigation and maintained the right to cancel bail on breach.
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78. Property Owners Association & Ors. v. State of Maharashtra & Ors.
    Constitution Bench Reaffirms Directive Principles’ Role in Property Reforms
    The Court upheld the validity of Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Act provisions under Article 31C, stating they align with the principles of Article 39(b). It clarified that community resources include equitable urban housing measures, balancing property rights with public welfare.
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79. Randeep Singh @ Rana & Anr. v. State of Haryana & Ors.
    Conviction Reversed for Procedural Gaps and Eyewitness Credibility Issues
    The Supreme Court overturned the conviction in a murder case citing the unreliable testimony of the sole eyewitness and procedural lapses in evidence collection. It reiterated the importance of stringent adherence to evidentiary standards in criminal trials.
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