The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) has voiced strong objections regarding the recent changes made to the Supreme Court emblem and the statue of Lady Justice, both unveiled without prior consultation with the legal community. The new statue, commissioned by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, features Lady Justice clad in a saree, holding the Constitution in one hand while omitting the traditional blindfold and sword. This redesign aims to reflect a more “Indianized” representation of justice but has drawn criticism for undermining the fundamental principle of impartiality in the judicial system.
SCBA President Vikas Singh articulated the association’s concerns, emphasizing the need for consultation with the Bar before implementing such significant changes. He described the process as “unilateral,” warning that these “radical” modifications may not align with the views of legal practitioners across the country. Singh’s statement highlights a crucial aspect of the legal profession: the respect for tradition and the established symbols that represent justice.
During the unveiling, Chief Justice Chandrachud defended the redesign, stating that the new depiction represents a justice system that sees all its citizens and aims for equality. He expressed that the blindfold traditionally associated with Lady Justice could be interpreted as a form of negligence towards societal realities, insisting that the law should not be blind to the conditions of the people it serves. The statue, designed by artist Vinod Goswami, stands approximately 6.5 feet tall and is crafted from fiberglass, embodying a blend of Indian cultural values and the principles of justice.
The SCBA’s resolution against these changes signifies a broader concern within the legal community regarding the implications of altering such iconic representations. Critics argue that the removal of the blindfold, a longstanding symbol of impartiality, could erode public trust in the judicial system. As debates continue, the SCBA urges for a more inclusive approach to decision-making, stressing that such emblematic representations are not merely aesthetic but hold significant legal and cultural importance.
The ongoing dialogue around the changes reflects the delicate balance between modernization and tradition in India’s legal landscape, and the SCBA remains committed to ensuring that the voices of legal practitioners are heard in future decisions.
New Delhi: Kataria Industries has announced its acquisition of Ratlam Wires’ wire manufacturing business for ₹30.6 crore, executed through a slump sale. The deal is a strategic move aimed at expanding Kataria’s foothold in the steel wire industry, particularly in sectors requiring specialized products like spring steel wires, PC strand wires, and both galvanized and ungalvanized wires. This acquisition bolsters Kataria’s production capacity, aligning with the company’s plans to cater to the increasing demand for steel wires in infrastructure and construction sectors.
Kataria Industries’ Managing Director stated, “This acquisition aligns with our vision to strengthen our product portfolio and enhance our capacity to serve the growing demands of steel wires across multiple industries.”
The purchase provides Kataria Industries access to Ratlam Wires’ state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, positioning the company for further growth. The deal reflects a broader trend of consolidation in India’s steel sector as companies focus on boosting efficiencies and expanding market share.
This acquisition is expected to drive competitive pricing and innovative product offerings, making Kataria a stronger player in the Indian steel wire market
Uttar Pradesh: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath recently met with Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat in Mathura, focusing on strategies for the upcoming Assembly bypolls in the state. This meeting is significant as it marks their first engagement since the Lok Sabha elections, where the BJP faced a sharp decline in its seat count, both nationally and in Uttar Pradesh.
During the meeting, which also included RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale, discussions revolved around enhancing coordination between the RSS cadre and the BJP, especially in light of the party’s lackluster performance in recent elections. The BJP won only 33 seats in Uttar Pradesh, down from 62 in the previous Lok Sabha elections, while the Congress-Samajwadi Party alliance gained 43 seats. The leaders are working to address organizational issues that were identified as contributing factors to this decline, signaling a commitment to reevaluate their approach ahead of the crucial bypolls.
The timing of this meeting aligns with the upcoming national executive meeting of the RSS, also known as the “Diwali baithak,” scheduled for October 25-26. This annual gathering will focus on the “RSS 100” plan and review previous speeches by Bhagwat, particularly emphasizing Hindu unity and the challenges posed by demographic changes and social discord. Bhagwat’s previous remarks highlighted the need for maintaining dignity and humility within the party, urging members to embody the values of a “true sevak” (servant).
As the BJP aims to recover from its recent setbacks, this meeting underscores the party’s determination to consolidate its organizational strength and reconnect with grassroots supporters. Adityanath’s proactive engagement with the RSS leadership reflects the urgency with which the BJP is approaching the upcoming electoral challenges, showcasing a unified front in preparation for the bypolls.
This concerted effort by the BJP and the RSS signals their strategy to regain voter trust and rectify past missteps, setting the stage for a renewed electoral push in Uttar Pradesh.
The recent proceedings of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) discussing the Waqf Amendment Bill were marred by chaos, leading JPC Chairman Jagdambika Pal to label the actions of Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kalyan Banerjee as “undemocratic” and “anarchist.” This comment follows a tumultuous incident where Banerjee broke a glass bottle during a heated confrontation with BJP MP Abhijit Gangopadhyay, raising concerns about decorum and conduct in parliamentary discussions.
Pal, reflecting on the uproar, remarked, “I escaped by God’s grace,” indicating the volatile nature of the environment during the meeting. Tensions escalated as the committee attempted to deliberate on sensitive issues related to the Waqf Bill, which has been a topic of significant political contention. Opposition MPs, frustrated with what they perceived as biased treatment from Pal, staged a walkout in protest. They subsequently wrote a letter to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, accusing the chairman of failing to maintain parliamentary norms.
In defense of his actions, Kalyan Banerjee contended that Pal’s leadership reflected a predetermined bias against the opposition, further inflaming the discord within the committee. Following the incident, the BJP called for Banerjee’s suspension, emphasizing the need for maintaining decorum in legislative proceedings.
The JPC’s proceedings have highlighted the growing rift between the ruling BJP and opposition parties, with each side accusing the other of undermining democratic principles. As discussions continue around the Waqf Amendment Bill, the clash serves as a reminder of the challenges inherent in navigating contentious legislative matters, especially in a politically charged atmosphere.
Political analysts suggest that the incident reflects broader issues within Indian parliamentary processes, where decorum and respect for differing viewpoints are often overshadowed by partisan conflicts. The BJP’s assertive stance, coupled with the opposition’s frustration, poses questions about the effectiveness of parliamentary debates and the ability of lawmakers to engage constructively on critical issues affecting society.
As the fallout from this incident unfolds, the implications for both the JPC and the broader political landscape remain to be seen, with all eyes on how parliamentary leaders can address the growing polarization and restore decorum in legislative discussions.
After a decade-long absence, Omar Abdullah has returned to the Chief Minister’s chair of Jammu and Kashmir, inheriting a complex political landscape that he has described as a “crown of thorns.” This metaphor, voiced by his father, Dr. Farooq Abdullah, encapsulates the challenges that come with leading a region still grappling with the ramifications of the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.
Omar took office on October 16, 2024, following elections held between September and October. His swearing-in ceremony was attended by notable political figures, including Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav. In his first address, Omar pledged to prioritize the restoration of statehood for J&K, reflecting widespread public sentiment on the matter. He noted that the new assembly would swiftly pass a resolution demanding this restoration, although critics argue that the Cabinet’s actions have not adequately represented the diverse political opinions of the region.
One of the most significant aspects of his return is the appointment of Surender Choudhary, a Hindu leader from Jammu, as his deputy. This move is seen as an attempt to ensure that Jammu feels included in the governance process, addressing fears of regional isolation. Omar emphasized his commitment to represent all communities in Jammu and Kashmir, aiming to bridge the historical divides that have characterized the region’s politics.
While he appears optimistic about his leadership role, the obstacles are formidable. Omar’s government operates under the constraints of a Union Territory, which diminishes its authority compared to a full-fledged state. Experts warn that navigating these limitations will be crucial as the government aims to foster healing and stability in a region long marred by conflict.
Reactions to his leadership have been mixed. Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti expressed hopes for healing the wounds inflicted on the people of J&K but cautioned that merely demanding statehood without restoring Article 370 is insufficient. Political analysts suggest that Omar must balance the aspirations of his constituents with the realities imposed by the central government, a challenge that could define his tenure.
As Abdullah steps into this role, he carries not only the expectations of his family legacy but also the hopes of a populace yearning for stability and progress in a historically turbulent region.
In a significant announcement, Akhilesh Yadav, the president of the Samajwadi Party (SP), declared that candidates from the INDIA bloc will contest the upcoming Uttar Pradesh bypolls using the SP’s iconic ‘cycle’ symbol. This strategic decision aims to consolidate opposition votes across the state as they gear up for elections on ten assembly seats.
Yadav emphasized that the alliance’s objective is clear: to win all the seats in contention. He stated, “All seats will be won by the INDIA bloc and the SP,” highlighting the bloc’s collective strength against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He also reiterated that this election is pivotal not only for political representation but also for safeguarding the Constitution and ensuring peace and justice for backward classes, Dalits, and minorities.
The upcoming bypolls are considered a crucial test for the INDIA bloc, which includes several opposition parties such as Congress, Trinamool Congress, and others. The SP has already announced candidates for six of the ten seats, and there is a sense of urgency to finalize the rest, especially given the internal dynamics and prior conflicts over seat-sharing arrangements within the alliance.
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra expressed optimism about the INDIA bloc’s potential in these elections. She stated, “We will work together and defeat the BJP,” signaling a commitment to collaboration despite previous tensions regarding candidate selection.
As the opposition gears up for this electoral battle, the focus will be on how well the alliance can mobilize support under the shared banner of the cycle symbol, marking a new chapter in UP’s political landscape ahead of the bypolls.
The Congress party has unveiled its candidates for the upcoming Rajasthan Assembly bypolls, scheduled for November 13, 2024. This electoral contest involves seven assembly constituencies that became vacant due to the deaths of incumbents or their elevation to the Lok Sabha. The party’s decision to contest these bypolls independently marks a significant shift from previous strategies, where alliances with regional parties were more common.
The list of candidates includes several prominent figures, with each selected to enhance the party’s chances of winning in their respective constituencies. The candidates are as follows:
1. Amit Ola – Jhunjhunu
2. Aryaan Khan – Ramgarh
3. Manoj Meghwal – Sujangarh
4. Ashok Kumar – Deoli-Uniyara
5. Revant Singh – Khinvsar
6. Savitri Bhati – Chorasi
7. Brij Mohan – Salumbar
Rajasthan Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra expressed confidence in the selections, emphasizing that the candidates have strong connections with the local populace and are viewed as highly winnable choices. “We have chosen the best candidates with a focus on ground connect and winnability,” he stated, reinforcing the party’s commitment to addressing local issues and enhancing grassroots engagement.
As the political landscape in Rajasthan heats up, the bypolls present a critical opportunity for Congress to reclaim lost ground against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which has also announced candidates for six of the seven seats. The BJP’s proactive approach indicates a competitive electoral atmosphere, with both parties keen on securing voter support in the lead-up to the general elections next year.
With the nomination deadline set for October 25, candidates are racing against time to finalize their campaign strategies. The election results are anticipated on November 23, making this an essential period for both parties to galvanize their support bases.
The Congress party’s decision to go solo in these bypolls reflects a strategic pivot, as it seeks to solidify its identity and message in the face of significant electoral challenges. As both Congress and the BJP prepare for intense campaigning, the outcomes of these bypolls could set the tone for the political dynamics in Rajasthan heading into 2024.
Round 2 of the triple header, in between the 3-way fight for constructors title, Formula 1 arrives in Mexico. The top 3- McLaren, Red Bull and Ferrari are separated by a mere 48 points. Five Grand Prix still to go, closely matched teams, championship could slip to anywhere. Red Bull’s Max Verstappen has a lead in drivers but it is not 100% safe. For constructors, McLaren and Ferrari have strongest driver pairing while Red Bull is pulled by Max alone.
At the previous grand prix in Austin, US, Ferrari had a dominating 1-2 while Verstappen and Lando Norris were involved in tense and controversial duel for the 3rd place on the podium. Verstappen ultimately secured 3rd after Norris received a controversial penalty in dying laps.
Mexico GP Preview
Upgrades
With F1 2024 about to reach its conclusion and cars reaching absolute peak of their development cycle, it is less likely to see major upgrades. Some teams like McLaren, Red Bull and Mercedes might bring minor changes to sort out their issues. While Ferrari delayed its upgrades at Austin to evaluate Monza and Singapore packages. Ferrari might tweak aerodynamics of the SF-24 or may look to improve its qualifying pace.
Track Analysis
The Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, has its own set of unique characteristics and challenges for drivers and cars. Located at almost 2.2 km above sea level, the air density here is low. It affects the aerodynamics and engine power of the car. Due to its low density, the air entering the internal combustion engine is significantly low, which is then compensated by the Turbo. It adds extra load on the Turbo. Overheating is inevitable if the driver is not careful. Thin air density affects cooling as well. Several crucial parts like brakes, power unit rely on air cooling. Braking systems go through violent decelerations, and need air for their cooling. This track tests the reliability of the cars.
Now it comes to the layout. By looking at long straights, a low downforce setup (like Monza) is expected. This is where this track tricks you. Teams opt for Monaco like high downforce setup. Mexico has its fair share of straights, high speed and low speed corners. But its the air that makes the difference. Even though power units don’t run at their peak potential here, the cars still reach speeds of 350 km/h. Thanks to the low density, drag is less effective and the need for more downforce to keep the car grounded around the corner arises. This 4.3km circuit consists of 17 turns varying in shapes and speeds, testing drivers and cars in million ways.
The first sector consists of a gigantic 1.2km straight to a heavy braking zone at turn 1, which is first of the double chicanes. The second sector is most technical, unforgiving and infamous for accidents. Slow speed corners (4-6) lead to a series of high speed corners in tandem, bringing the car’s aerodynamics in play. Downforce and stability is the lifeline here. The third and final sector goes through stadium section, a tricky slow speed turn 13, and the final corner- turn 17 leads back to the long straight to turn 1. It has 2 DRS zones aiding high speed here.
Weather
As for the weather, chances of rain is 20% for race and similar for qualifying on Saturday. Temperature is expected to revolve around 20-25 degree celsius (highest), 11-12 degree celsius (lowest). The conditions for Sunday to be a bit cloudier and cooler than Saturday with an increasing chance of showers in the afternoon due to daily convection. Light northerly wind are anticipated.
What to Expect
Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez is different from the COTA, Austin. Same cannot be expected here. However, COTA is believed to be the track that illustrates strengths and weaknesses of a car. Keeping that in mind, it will be a close call between McLaren and Ferrari. Red Bull’s car performs differently with different tyre compounds and is a proven tyre killer. Yet, Max Verstappen cannot be ruled out of contention especially after Austin upgrades were received positively by the drivers. Verstappen was strong in his first stint compared to McLarens of Norris and Piastri but plunged in the latter half.
(From left to right) Lando Norris, Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc, and a Red Bull Personnel at the podium of Imola GP 2024
Mexican GP is Sergio Perez’s home race, and the Red Bull driver will look to regain his lost mojo in front of his home crowd. His form is not only crucial for Red Bull’s constructors fight but also for his own future. He has not been on the podium since China, and the only strong weekend in Baku was stigmatised with his late crash with Carlos Sainz. If Perez fails again, Ferrari is for sure taking p2 from Red Bull this weekend. For Ferrari, only problem is their typical bad luck/run after a series of strong performances.
Mercedes endured a difficult weekend at US. Both of their drivers spun at the same spot. Lewis Hamilton was eliminated in Q1 and spun out and retired from the race on lap 2. Though George Russell recovered from pitlane start to a respectable p6 in the race. Mercedes is in no man’s land in constructors. They will only look to close the gap to top 3 which could improve their chances.
Similar case is with Aston Martin. They are not challenging neither are challenged by anyone. Upgrades at Austin didn’t work, like it has always been the case with Aston Martin. Fernando Alonso can bring in few points except that nothing can be expected.
Haas and VCARB are battling it out for 6th in constructors. Though Haas leads the fight, RB cannot be taken lightly. RB was comfortably at 6th once, however questionable strategies and failed upgrades hampered their chances. Liam Lawson, who replaced Daniel Riccardo, at Austin, is the driver to watch out for. The rookie started from back of the grid (due to power unit penalties) and recovered to p9, proving why Red Bull has so much faith in him. He also had an interesting duel with 2-time champion Fernando Alonso during the weekend and came out on top.
For Alex Albon, every race from now on will define his career. He has a reputation of being weak against strong teammates. It was clearly visible during his Red Bull days alongside Max Verstappen, and now his new rookie teammate Franco Colapinto is outperforming him. When Albon was paired against Nicholas Latifi and Logan Sargeant, he decimated them. Though none of Latifi or Sargeant can be counted as strong teammates. Franco was nowhere near contention until Williams boss James Vowels pulled the trigger on Logan Sargeant. Franco is a smaller and temporary threat. A much bigger challenged named Carlos Sainz will arrive next year. Sainz a top driver, race winner with excellent race-craft and a tactical genius is the strongest teammate Albon will face after Verstappen. Albon’s tendency to complain after hard racing does not help his case either. Like recently when he complained of Franco’s divebomb at the Singapore GP. He needs to up his game or lose his seat to Franco maybe in 2026. Franco Colapinto in limited opportunities showed what he is capable of and Vowels won’t let go a talent like this. His performances also indicate that the Williams car was not as bad as it looked.
Alpine and Sauber, the bottom two teams in the standings failed to score in Austin despite bringing upgrades. Alpine at least had few races where they scored points and could challenge Williams for p8 in standings. Sauber on the other hand has been the outright slowest team and the only team with 0 points. To make things worse, their strategies and pitstops spoils any good race they have once in a while. Pierre Gasly pulled off a blinder for Alpine last race.The Frenchman then had 6.9 seconds pitstop ruining his race.
The matter will remain between the title contenders. Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc have difficult but mathematically possible shot at the drivers championship. With the grid being so close, and difficult conditions, this race will be won on strategy, skills and controlled aggression of the drivers. The fastest car or driver might not win if they end up cooking their tyres or power unit components. While the midfield has been chaotic and closely matched. The Haas, RB and Williams battle for final points position is the one to look out for.
Predictions:
Top 5 in Qualifying:
Lando Norris
Max Verstappen
Charles Leclerc
Oscar Piastri/Carlos Sainz
George Russell
Top 5 in Race:
Charles Leclerc
Max Verstappen
Lando Norris/Carlos Sainz
Lando Norris/Oscar Piastri
George Russell
One of the top teams will possibly have a disaster, and the race will be interrupted by a safety car. Franco Colapinto and Liam Lawson will outperform their respective teammates once again. Sergio Perez will have a decent weekend though he won’t challenge anyone except one Mercedes.
Ladakhi climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has escalated his push for the inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, a long-standing demand that aims to secure greater autonomy and protection for the region’s cultural identity. Wangchuk, known for his innovative environmental initiatives, has been vocal about Ladakh’s exclusion from these protective provisions since the region’s bifurcation into a Union Territory in 2019.
Recently, Wangchuk criticized the current central government, contrasting its approach to the more responsive attitude during its previous term. “This government no longer shows the same willingness to listen to Ladakh’s concerns,” Wangchuk remarked. However, he also expressed a cautious optimism, stating, “We trust the government but are prepared to take the most extreme steps to ensure Ladakh’s future is protected”.
Wangchuk’s activism intensified in October 2024, as he led peaceful protests in Delhi, despite facing restrictions. His ‘padyatra’ (march) to raise awareness about Ladakh’s constitutional demands culminated in his detention at the Delhi-Haryana border. Still, Wangchuk remains determined, conducting a hunger strike along with several supporters to press for immediate dialogue with the central leadership.
Several political voices have rallied behind Wangchuk’s cause. Leaders from Ladakh’s civil society and opposition parties have echoed his demands, urging the government to recognize the unique cultural and environmental challenges facing the region. According to Wangchuk, “The protests aren’t just about political status; they are about safeguarding the fragile ecosystem and cultural heritage of Ladakh”.
As Wangchuk’s movement gains momentum, the Home Ministry has promised talks in December, though many remain skeptical about the government’s commitment. Wangchuk, however, has made it clear that his protest will continue until tangible assurances are given.
The situation highlights the growing discontent in Ladakh, as Wangchuk and his supporters continue to push for legislative protection and environmental preservation in one of India’s most ecologically sensitive regions.
The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), Punjab’s second-oldest political party, is grappling with an internal revolt as senior leaders push for a change in leadership, citing poor electoral performance and a decline in the party’s influence. Dissidents have openly challenged party president Sukhbir Singh Badal, demanding his resignation after the party’s poor show in both the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections. This discontent has only deepened the party’s crisis, threatening its very existence.
The rebel leaders, including prominent figures such as Jagir Kaur, Prem Singh Chandumajra, and Sikandar Singh Maluka, held a separate meeting in Jalandhar earlier this year, criticizing Sukhbir Badal for not listening to the party’s grassroots members. Jagir Kaur stated, “The party president does not make an effort to overcome the shortcomings. We are worried about how to rise from the situation we are in”. These dissidents have launched the “Shiromani Akali Dal Bachao” movement, with plans to form a committee to elect a new leader.
Sukhbir Badal, who has led the party since the demise of his father, Parkash Singh Badal, faces significant opposition within the party over unresolved issues like sacrilege cases and declining vote shares. The party’s core committee, SAD’s highest decision-making body, has been dissolved to address the growing dissent. Despite these moves, the rebels, emboldened by the support of senior Akali leaders, continue to demand a new direction for the party.
However, loyalists within the SAD, including Harsimrat Kaur Badal, have dismissed the rebellion, claiming that only a handful of members are involved. Harsimrat stated, “These are just five people trying to please the BJP,” and defended Sukhbir’s leadership by emphasizing his strong support within the party.
With Akali Dal’s vote share plummeting to 13.42% in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, down from 27.45% in 2019, the stakes are higher than ever for the party to reform and reclaim its position in Punjab’s political landscape. How Sukhbir Badal navigates this leadership crisis will likely determine the future of the party.
As the BJP aims to recover from its recent setbacks, this meeting underscores the party’s determination to consolidate its organizational strength and reconnect with grassroots supporters. Adityanath’s proactive engagement with the RSS leadership reflects the urgency with which the BJP is approaching the upcoming electoral challenges, showcasing a unified front in preparation for the bypolls.
The first sector consists of a gigantic 1.2km straight to a heavy braking zone at turn 1, which is first of the double chicanes. The second sector is most technical, unforgiving and infamous for accidents. Slow speed corners (4-6) lead to a series of high speed corners in tandem, bringing the car’s aerodynamics in play. Downforce and stability is the lifeline here. The third and final sector goes through stadium section, a tricky slow speed turn 13, and the final corner- turn 17 leads back to the long straight to turn 1. It has 2 DRS zones aiding high speed here.
