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Background of the Crisis India’s largest airline, IndiGo, faced unprecedented operational disruption between December 3 and 5, 2024 , resulting in 2,507 flight cancellations and 1,852 delays , stranding over three lakh passengers across the country. The disruption followed the enforcement of revised Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) norms, which imposed stricter caps on pilot duty hours and enhanced mandatory rest requirements. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) constituted a four-member inquiry committee to investigate the causes of the breakdown. Based on its findings, the regulator imposed a record financial penalty of ₹22.2 crore , issued warnings to senior leadership, and mandated sweeping systemic reforms within the airline.

Background of the Case The Supreme Court of India has delivered a strong message against unauthorised constructions, holding that courts must not legitimise illegal structures merely because municipal regulations allow compounding on payment of fees. The observations were made while dismissing a petition challenging the demolition of unauthorised constructions in Secunderabad, Telangana. The appeal arose from a judgment of the Telangana High Court which had ordered the removal of illegal constructions raised without permission from the Secunderabad Cantonment Board. A Bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi emphasised that post-facto regularisation of illegal constructions defeats the rule of law and encourages rampant encroachment on public and private land. Supreme Court’s Observations: Rule of Law Cannot Be Compromised The apex court categorically held that demolition is the correct legal course where unauthorised constructions are raised, a...

Supreme Court’s Landmark Decision The Supreme Court of India upheld the Gujarat High Court’s decision permitting the partial demolition of the 400-year-old Mancha Masjid in Ahmedabad to facilitate a road-widening project . The Court emphasized that the move was driven by public interest and not a violation of religious freedom under the Constitution. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi clarified that the main mosque structure will remain intact , with only a portion of the vacant land and platform being affected. The Court further noted that the development plan included similar demolitions of a temple , a commercial building , and a residential house , indicating that the action was not discriminatory or targeted . Religious Rights vs. Property Rights The Supreme Court categorically stated that Article 25 of the Constitution — which guarantees the right to freely profess, practice, and propagate religion — does not apply in this case. Instead, the dispute...

Supreme Court Expresses Concern Over CBI’s Disturbing Findings in Kolkata Doctor’s Rape and Murder Case In a recent hearing, the Supreme Court of India voiced its deep concern regarding the disturbing findings presented by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the ongoing investigation into the rape and murder of a doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital , a state-run facility in Kolkata, West Bengal . The case, which the Supreme Court took up suo motu , has brought attention to severe discrepancies in the investigation, particularly in the handling of evidence and the overall probe process. CBI’s Findings Raise Alarm in the Court A bench comprising Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud , along with Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra , expressed their dismay after reviewing the status report submitted by the CBI. The court stated that the findings in the report are "really disturbing," and echoed concerns raised by a lawyer regarding inconsistencies, such ...

PIL Filed in Delhi HC: Call for Reform in Coaching  Institute Guidelines Overview of the PIL A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Delhi High Court requesting a major overhaul of guidelines for coaching institutes. The PIL aims to address significant issues like fraud, exploitation, and safety concerns associated with these institutions. It specifically seeks to impose criminal liability on entities failing to adhere to new regulations. Key Requests of the PIL 1. Stricter Regulations for Coaching Institutes: The petition calls for the Centre and Delhi Government to establish robust rules for operating coaching institutes and paying guest accommodations, ensuring safety and regulation to prevent exploitation. 2. Focus on Holistic Education: The plea advocates for a shift in the education system from merely preparing students for entrance exams to fostering their overall development and personal growth. 3. Improved Student Housing: It highlights the need for saf...

Supreme Court Questions Delhi Government Over Tanker Mafias and Water Wastage; Seeks Affidavit The Supreme Court of India has raised serious concerns over the issues of tanker mafias and water wastage in Delhi, demanding an affidavit from the AAP government detailing the measures taken to prevent water loss in the capital. This development came to light on Tuesday when the apex court questioned the Delhi government during a hearing. Strong Objections to Tanker Mafias A vacation bench consisting of Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra and Justice Prasanna B Varale took a firm stand against the existence of tanker mafias in Delhi. The bench asked the Delhi government to explain the actions taken against these mafias and warned that if the state government fails to take effective action, the Delhi police will be directed to intervene. Affidavit Demanded The Supreme Court has instructed the Delhi government to submit an affidavit detailing the measures implemented to prevent water loss. This affi...