Centre clears elevation of two advocates as HC judges
'In exercise of the powers conferred under clause (1) of Article 224 of the Constitution of India, the President is pleased to appoint... Ankhad and Nerlikar as Additional Judges of the Bombay High Court,' the official notification said. They will take charge in order of seniority.
Their names were among nine recommended for elevation by the Bombay High Court Collegium in April this year, in consultation with the two senior-most judges of the court. The Supreme Court Collegium later endorsed the recommendations after securing the concurrence of the chief ministers and Governors of Maharashtra and Goa.
According to the apex court's note on Ankhad's candidature, he has argued in cases leading to 56 reported judgments and is known for his expertise in commercial, contract, and arbitration matters.
Nerlikar, who has over two decades of experience in civil, criminal, constitutional, labour and service law, represented the Maharashtra government at the Aurangabad Bench for a decade. Since November 2023, he has served as additional government pleader and additional public prosecutor. His elevation, the collegium observed, would enhance social diversity in the judiciary as he belongs to a Scheduled Caste.
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Hans India
an hour ago
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CITU Calls for Nationwide General Strike on July 9 to Protect Constitutional and Labor Rights
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The Print
an hour ago
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Khap Panchayats rally for legal sanctity after HC's suo motu push. ‘We're backbone of rural justice'
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During the proceedings, Chief Justice Nagu emphasised the potential of community mediation, stating, 'Community mediation holds significant potential for resolving interpersonal disputes, such as those between neighbours, families, and communities. Despite being highly effective in delivering inexpensive and speedy resolution of disputes at the grassroots level, community mediation has not been enforced so far.' The court suggested that formalising Khaps' role under the Mediation Act could transform them into effective mediators, provided their practices align with constitutional norms. The Bench noted that, 'The Khap Panchayats in the rural Haryana exercise significant social influence within the community they represent and exercise a form of social governance in their respective areas.' The court directed the states, Union Territory, and the Centre to file their responses by 5 August 5, when the matter is next scheduled for hearing. Also read: After success in metros, SC panel & NALSA working on module to train community mediators in villages Demand for legal sanctity The high court's initiative has galvanised Khap Panchayats, with leaders viewing it as a historic opportunity to formalise their dispute resolution mechanisms. In Rohtak, the Phogat Khap held a large gathering on Wednesday, where leaders unanimously demanded legal recognition for their decisions. Kitab Singh, a senior leader of the Phogat Khap, told The Print, 'Giving legal responsibility to Khap Panchayats is a commendable step. Our decisions are rooted in community consensus and aim to maintain harmony. Legal recognition will strengthen our ability to resolve disputes peacefully and swiftly.' He highlighted Khaps' historical role in resolving disputes over land, marriage, and social conflicts, often preventing escalation to formal courts. In Jind, the Kandela Khap convened a meeting on Thursday. The Kandela Khap chief, Tek Ram Kandela, told ThePrint Friday, 'For centuries, Khap Panchayats have been the backbone of rural justice, settling disputes with fairness and community welfare in mind. The high court's move is a chance to formalise our role, ensuring our decisions carry legal weight while respecting constitutional values.' In Hisar, the Satrol Khap echoed similar sentiments, with its chairman Satish Chander noting while speaking to ThePrint, 'We welcome the court's initiative. Our mediation practices are community-driven, and with legal backing, we can bridge the gap between traditional and modern justice systems.' He said that during its meeting the Khap has also called for clear guidelines to ensure Khap decisions align with constitutional principles, particularly on issues like gender equality and fundamental rights. The high court's PIL has sparked a debate on integrating traditional institutions into India's legal framework. 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Khap Panchayats have been associated with controversial rulings, including demands for bans on live-in relationships, opposition to inter-caste and same-gotra (clan) marriages, and enforcing social boycotts against individuals or families deemed to have violated community norms. In March this year, the Banian Khap that met at Danoda village of Haryana had given a call for social boycott of 'live-in' couples in the presence of a minister Krishan Bedi. In another instance, the Sangwan Khap led by Independent MLA Sombir Sangwan had ordered 'Hukka-Paani Band' (ostracisation) of nine families in Charkhi village of Haryana in July 2023 for 'disobeying' the Panchayat's edict of not sowing paddy in the village. (Edited by Viny Mishra) Also read: Khap calls for 'social boycott, ban' on live-in relationships in Haryana minister's presence
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2 hours ago
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Can 70 judges do work of 94? Top court judge flags workload at Bombay High Court
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