Orissa High Court: Brothel Customer Not Liable Under Immoral Traffic Act; Kerala HC Takes Contrary View

Kerala HC: Customers Visiting Brothels Can Be Prosecuted Under Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956

The Kerala High Court has ruled that customers who visit brothels for sexual activity can be prosecuted under the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956. This landmark interpretation shifts the earlier view that only brothel keepers were liable, making customers equally culpable for sustaining commercial sexual exploitation. For UPSC and State PSC aspirants, this is a key development in the realm of social legislation and criminal law.

Bombay HC Overrules Trial Court in Tarun Tejpal Case: Victim's Past Sexual History Inadmissible

The Bombay High Court's ruling in the Tarun Tejpal case highlights persistent judicial bias against rape survivors, with courts focusing on victim's character instead of accused's conduct. Legal experts emphasize that the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act 2013 defines consent as positive agreement, yet patriarchal notions still influence rulings. For UPSC, this connects to judicial reforms, gender justice, and landmark cases like Mathura and Vishaka.

SC Orders Fresh SIT Probe into 2012 Karnataka Rape-Murder, Sets 3-Month Deadline for Investigation

The Supreme Court has ordered a fresh SIT investigation into the 2012 rape-murder of a 17-year-old girl in Karnataka, severely criticizing the earlier probe as 'shocking the conscience'. The Court set aside the Karnataka High Court's dismissal of the victim's family plea for reinvestigation after the accused was acquitted in 2023. This landmark judgment reinforces judicial accountability for investigative failures and the right of victims to a fair probe.

Supreme Court Takes Suo Motu Cognisance of Delhi-NCR Sexual Assaults, Cites Article 21 and Nirbhaya Parallel

The Supreme Court has taken suo motu cognisance of recent sexual assault cases in Delhi-NCR, flagging lax patrolling and administrative failures that make public spaces 'zones of high risk'. The court invoked Article 21 (right to life and personal liberty) and drew a painful parallel to the 2012 Nirbhaya case, demanding accountability and a measurable response from authorities. This has major implications for law enforcement accountability, women's safety, and judicial oversight.

Karnataka HC Orders Interim Compensation Scheme for Mob Lynching Victims; Directs Compliance in 3 Months

Karnataka High Court has declared mob lynching a 'grave threat' to rule of law and directed the state to formulate an interim compensation scheme for victims within three months. The court also reiterated the stringent provisions of BNS Section 103(2) and the need for fast-track trials, making this a critical update for UPSC and state PSC exams focusing on criminal law reforms and human rights.

Kerala HC: Consent Irrelevant in POCSO Cases; Minor's Consent No Defence Under POCSO Act, 2012

The Kerala High Court has unequivocally ruled that consent is irrelevant in sexual offences against minors under the POCSO Act, 2012. This judgment reinforces the absolute protection of children below 18 years, regardless of any claimed 'romantic relationship'. For exam aspirants, this is a critical clarification of the POCSO Act's core principle—consent from a minor is legally void and cannot be a defence.

Supreme Court Rules NCSC Cannot Issue Binding Directions Under Article 338

The Supreme Court clarified that the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) has only recommendatory and advisory powers under Article 338, not adjudicatory powers. It cannot issue binding orders in service disputes. This ruling sets boundaries for constitutional commissions under Articles 338, 338A, and 338B.

BCI Orders Nationwide Inspection of Law Colleges, Bans Shift-Based Programmes in 6 Weeks

The Bar Council of India has directed all universities to physically inspect affiliated law colleges within six weeks and submit compliance reports. This follows Supreme Court concerns and a High Court judgment reaffirming universities' duty to ensure compliance. The BCI targets shift-based programmes and inadequate facilities, aiming to curb sub-standard legal education.