Topic
Constitutional validity in Indian law refers to whether a statute or government action complies with the provisions of the Constitution of India, particularly fundamental rights and separation of powers.
The Karnataka HC struck down the state’s move to raise SC/ST reservation to 56%, ruling it violates the 50% ceiling. The verdict impacts SC/ST aspirants for jobs and education in Karnataka, upholding the equality-affirmative action balance.
Supreme Court ruled the Uttar Pradesh Gangsters and Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act, 1986, creates no distinct offence, so charge-sheets based solely on a gang chart are unconstitutional. All pending prosecutions relying only on such charts are therefore quashed.
Karnataka High Court quashed a 12% Forest Development Tax (FDT) demand on timber purchases, holding that such demands cannot proceed until final resolution of pending appeals challenging the tax's constitutional validity. The interim order protects taxpayers from coercive recovery while the legal challenge remains unresolved.
Supreme Court affirms legislative discretion in fiscal levies, ruling that royalty, District Mineral Foundation (DMF), and National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET) contributions can be included in the 'sale value' for mineral royalty calculation under the MMDR Act. The judgment reinforces anti-evasion measures and validates subordinate legislation, impacting mining operators and state revenue frameworks.
Himachal Pradesh High Court rules that contractual service must be included in seniority calculations and pensionary benefits for government employees, striking down provisions of the Himachal Pradesh Recruitment and Conditions of Service Act, 2024. The judgment mandates reconsideration of employee claims, ensuring parity in service benefits regardless of employment terms.
Allahabad High Court ruled that the methodology under Section 9(1)(c) of the Delimitation Act, 2002, for reserving SC/ST constituencies based on population proportion is constitutionally valid and not arbitrary. The judgment reinforces judicial deference to legislative policy in electoral reservation matters, impacting future delimitation exercises.
MP High Court Indore declares Section 47-A of the MP Excise Act, 1915 unconstitutional, quashing vehicle confiscation orders passed without due process. The ruling mandates release of confiscated vehicles unless auctioned, reinforcing constitutional protections against arbitrary state action affecting property rights.
Bombay High Court ruled that Section 479(2) of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act, which delegates license fee-fixing power to the Commissioner, is constitutional under Article 14 when guided by detailed policy frameworks and municipal oversight. The judgment clarifies that such delegation is not arbitrary, impacting municipal corporations and advertisers relying on outdoor publicity licenses.
Bombay High Court adjourns constitutional challenge to Sections 3G(5) and (6) of the National Highways Act, 1956, pending Supreme Court's final determination.
Madras High Court declares Section 77A of the Registration Act, 1908 unconstitutional, quashing administrative cancellation of documents and restoring civil remedy.
The Customs Appellate Tribunal holds Rule 8(3A) of Central Excise Rules ultra vires, affirming that Cenvat credit cannot be denied for duty payment during default. Penalty must be imposed under Rule 27, not Rule 25.