The Madras High Court's recent decisions reflect a wide range of judicial activities from the past week, addressing significant legal issues from patent disputes to the rights of public servants and the responsibilities of educational institutions. This summary provides detailed insights into the various rulings and observations made by the court during this period.
Denial of Bail to YouTuber Felix Jerald
The court dismissed the bail petition of YouTuber Felix Jerald in a case involving derogatory remarks made by Savukku Shankar against women police officers during an interview. Justice TV Thamilselvi emphasized the journalist's duty to edit out offensive content and uphold dignity in their conduct .
IIT-Madras Patent Rejection
In a case involving the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, the court upheld the Controller of Patents and Designs' decision to reject a patent application for a method of doping potassium into ammonium perchlorate. The court found the invention lacked an inventive step and economic significance .
Sexual Harassment Conviction Overturned
The court overturned a sexual harassment conviction, highlighting the necessity to ensure both women are not misused and that laws are not misused against men. The decision stemmed from a case where the victim was aware of the accused’s marital status .
Application Fee for AIBE
A plea to reduce the application fee for the All India Bar Examination (AIBE) was dismissed. The court noted that there was no statutory provision for the examination fee under the Advocates Act, and the fee of Rs. 3,500/- was not deemed exorbitant .
Quality Medical Treatment Rights
The court emphasized that no individual should be denied quality medical treatment due to economic constraints. This was in response to a plea by postgraduate doctors regarding their bond period and service during the COVID-19 crisis .
Access to Public Records
Justice G Jayachandran ruled in favor of a petitioner seeking access to records of a disproportionate assets case involving a politician, asserting the public's right to scrutinize the conduct of elected officials .
Campus Violence
The court took a firm stance against campus violence by teachers, stating that such actions could not be condoned merely with an apology letter. The ruling came in response to a petition from the teaching staff of Pachaiyappa’s Trust .
Advocate's Association Elections
The court directed the Bar Council of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry to facilitate elections for the Efmore Court Advocate's Association, ensuring proper conduct and necessary police protection .
Hospitality Industry Management
In a case involving SRM Hotels, the court highlighted the unsuitability of government staff for the hospitality industry, which requires courteous and prompt customer service. The decision involved setting aside a state government letter rejecting lease renewal for the hotel .
Tax Demand on Discounts
The court quashed tax demands on post-sale discounts received via financial credit notes, clarifying that such discounts do not constitute a service under GST law .
Special Bench for Public Spirited Persons
A plea was filed seeking the constitution of special benches for faster disposal of cases involving public-spirited persons, journalists, and YouTubers. The petitioner argued that the state was engaging in a "witch-hunt" against dissenting voices .
Removal of Sai Baba Idols
The court issued notice to the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowment Department on a plea seeking the removal of Sai Baba idols from Hindu temples under its control, arguing that it violated Agama principles .
Extension for Money Laundering Case Trial
The court granted an extension for the trial in a money laundering case against former Tamil Nadu Minister Senthil Balaji, citing multiple petitions filed by the parties as the reason for the delay .
Advocates Welfare Fund
The court directed the state government to release funds for the Tamil Nadu Advocates Welfare Fund, ensuring that families of deceased lawyers receive the benefits .
FIR Against BJP Minister
Minister Shobha Karandlaje approached the court to quash FIRs filed against her for comments made after the Rameswaram Café blast, arguing that the FIRs were politically motivated .
This weekly roundup illustrates the Madras High Court's active role in addressing diverse legal challenges and reinforcing the principles of justice across various sectors.
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