Nation

Chief Justice of India, Surya Kant, recently highlighted the pressing challenges facing India’s justice system: rising litigation costs and prolonged court proceedings, which hinder ordinary citizens from accessing justice. Speaking at a seminar organized by the Odisha High Court Bar Association on “Ensuring Justice for the Common Man: Strategies to Reduce Costs and Delays”, he emphasized that justice must be accessible, timely, and humane to uphold constitutional dignity. The Story of an Elderly FarmerRecalling an early experience from his legal career, CJI Surya Kant shared the story of an elderly farmer waiting outside the court until afternoon because his case was listed far down the schedule. When asked why he continued to wait despite the uncertainty, the farmer smiled faintly and...

Every year on 18th December, India observes Minorities Rights Day to raise awareness about the rights, protection, and welfare of minority communities in the country. This day is linked to the 1992 United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Minorities and the establishment of the National Commission for Minorities (NCM) in India. The day serves as a reminder that all minority communities in India are entitled to their full constitutional rights. It also provides an opportunity to recognize the challenges they face and strengthen mechanisms for their protection. Here are the 5 key constitutional rights guaranteed to minorities in India: Religious Freedom (Articles 25–28):The Indian Constitution guarantees all citizens the freedom to practice, profess, and propagate their religion...

During his historic visit to Ethiopia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Ethiopian Parliament with a clear message: the world cannot progress if its systems remain trapped in the past. Emphasizing the vision of a united and forward-looking “Global South,” PM Modi highlighted the need for collaboration, inclusivity, and shared development. A Strong Message to the WorldPM Modi stated that nations of the Global South are now writing their own destinies. India and Ethiopia envision a world where developing countries do not act against one another but work together to advance collective progress. He stressed the need for reforms in global institutions like the United Nations Security Council and called for a world where development is equitable, technology is accessible, and soverei...

New Delhi: In a sharp and unsettling observation on judicial conduct, the Supreme Court has expressed concern over a growing trend of judges delivering a flurry of significant verdicts just before retirement, raising questions about impartiality and intent. The apex court warned that such a pattern, if driven by extraneous considerations, poses a serious threat to the credibility of the justice system. The remarks came from a Bench led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Justice Suryakant, along with Justice Joymalya Bagchi, while hearing a petition filed by a Principal District Judge from Madhya Pradesh, who had challenged his suspension just 10 days before retirement. The suspension was reportedly linked to two judicial orders passed by the judge shortly before his superannuation. ‘Hit...

New Delhi: Taking serious note of the worsening air pollution in Delhi-NCR, the Supreme Court on Wednesday described the crisis as an annual phenomenon and issued important directions aimed at mitigating the situation. In a significant relief and clarification, the Court modified its earlier order regarding action against old vehicles operating in the region. Action Limited to Pre-BS-IV Vehicles The apex court amended its August 12, 2025 order, granting the Delhi government permission to take action only against vehicles below BS-IV emission standards. This means enforcement agencies can now act against: 10-year-old diesel vehicles 15-year-old petrol vehiclesprovided they fall below the BS-IV category. The modification brings clarity after an earlier blanket restriction on...

New Delhi: Severe cold conditions have tightened their grip over Delhi and large parts of North India, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue an alert for dense to very dense fog and cold wave conditions from December 18 to 22. The weather system is expected to significantly impact road, rail, and air traffic due to poor visibility, especially during early morning and late-night hours. According to the IMD, states including Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttarakhand are likely to witness extremely low visibility during dawn and early morning hours. Authorities have advised commuters to exercise caution as transport disruptions are likely. Cold Wave Warning and Mountain Weather The IMD has forecast a strong possibility of cold wave conditions on December ...

New Delhi: Amid worsening air quality across Delhi-NCR and several parts of the country, the issue of rising pollution will be taken up for discussion in Parliament today. Following sustained demands from the Opposition in both Houses, the government has agreed to a detailed debate. Union Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Bhupender Yadav is scheduled to respond to questions, objections, and suggestions in the Lok Sabha at 5 pm. The pollution crisis has dominated proceedings since the beginning of the Winter Session, with Members of Parliament repeatedly flagging the severe health risks posed by hazardous air quality. Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi has been particularly vocal, urging the government to present a comprehensive and consensus-based action plan to tackle air ...

New Delhi: In a major step towards understanding the true state of mental health in the country, the Central Government has launched a nationwide National Mental Health Survey (NMHS-2) after a gap of nine years. The survey aims to assess the prevalence, patterns, and impact of mental health conditions across India, many of which often go undiagnosed and untreated until they become severe. Mental health experts note that a large number of individuals remain unaware that they are suffering from mental health disorders. As a result, timely treatment is missed, leading to a gradual worsening of their condition. Keeping this in mind, the government has initiated this comprehensive survey to generate reliable and updated data for effective policy planning. First Pan-India Coverage Since CO...

New Delhi: Amid the intense debates in the Winter Session of Parliament on issues such as Vande Mataram, MGNREGA, education bills, and Special Investment Regions (SIRs), a lighter moment caught attention when members from opposing parties interacted cordially. On Wednesday, a video surfaced showing Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kalyan Banerjee engaging in a friendly exchange with Union Minister and BJP MP Nitin Gadkari. While the exact conversation could not be clearly heard, the clip shows Banerjee pulling Gadkari slightly aside and saying, “Suniye na…” (Listen…), speaking softly into his ear. Following this, other MPs approached Gadkari to greet him and engage briefly in conversation. Banerjee returned shortly thereafter, discussing topics such as national highways and hydrogen-power...

New Delhi: Union Minister and BJP leader Ravneet Singh Bittu has claimed that Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra are involved in a serious disagreement. According to Bittu, Rahul Gandhi’s recent trip to Germany during the Winter Session of Parliament is a result of this familial and political discord. Bittu Alleges “Heavy Fight” Between the Gandhis In an interview shared by NDTV on X (formerly Twitter), Bittu stated, “There is a fight going on between the two Gandhis. A very serious fight. From what I have learned, Rahul Gandhi is upset over Priyanka Gandhi’s speeches in the House and has left due to problems within the family and the party.” Publicly, They Defend Each Other Despite Bittu’s claims, Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi are usually seen defen...