Jairam Ramesh counters PM, says it was a Congress govt. that gave constitutional status to panchayats
Mr. Ramesh also pointed out that it was the Congress-led UPA government in 2010 that marked April 24 as Panchayati Raj Diwas. “But our Prime Minister is trying to take credit for this today,” he said. Key Points
The HinduOhio's contentious battle over reproductive rights and the controversy surrounding 'partial-birth abortion
Ohio is currently engaged in a heated debate over reproductive rights, with the term partial-birth abortion taking center stage. Opponents of a constitutional amendment vote scheduled for November 7 are expressing concerns about the amendment's implications, using the term to argue against it. However, it is important to clarify that partial-birth abortion is a colloquial term for a medical procedure known as dilation and extraction (D&X), which is already banned in the United States. Key Points
Economic TimesSetback for HUL, Nestle, Patanjali and others as HC upholds anti-profiteering provisions under GST
The Delhi High Court has upheld the constitutional validity of anti-profiteering provisions under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) framework. Over 50 top companies, including Hindustan Unilever, Abbott, Johnson & Johnson, and Nestle, had challenged these measures. The court stated that the provisions are a consumer welfare measure and do not violate constitutional provisions. Key Points
Economic TimesDespite heavy protests, French President Emmanuel Macron signs pension reform into law
Key reform provisions, such as raising the retirement age to 64 and lengthening the number of years of employment necessary for a full pension, were approved by the nine-member constitutional Council, which found that the legislation complied with French law. The fight to put the bill into effect ended up being the biggest domestic obstacle of Macron's second term because of both the overwhelming public resistance to the revisions and his own declining personal popularity, Al Jazeera reported. Key Points
Economic TimesSC about to hear pleas to legalise same sex marriage: Follow us for live updates
The SC had referred the pleas on same sex marriage to a Constitution Bench on March 13, saying questions of 'seminal importance' were involved. Arguments are set to begin soon. Key Points
The Indian Express
Karnal assembly by-election: EC moves prompt debate over the legal provisions for by-poll
The statutory requirement is enshrined in Section 151-A. But since the constitutional mandate as per Article 164 (4) of the Constitution is that one cannot remain a minister for more than six months without being a member of the House. So the constitutional mandate will prevail – Vikram Chaudhri, senior HC advocate Key Points
Hindustan Times‘The voter is being badly cheated due to defections’
India News: Explore the implications of Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Speaker's decision on the anti-defection law and its impact on the voters. Understand the shortcomings and debates surrounding defections in Indian politics. Key Points
Times Of IndiaUS lawmakers call for withholding aid to Pak
Want constitutional order restored. A group of 11 influential US lawmakers have urged the Biden administration to withhold future assistance to Pakistan until Islamabad restores constitutional order and holds free and fair elections, it emerged on Sunday. Key Points
The Tribune IndiaOhio election: See why it is crucial for constitutional amendments and how it may impact abortion rights
The Ohio election, scheduled for Tuesday, may change not only the process of constitutional amendments, but it may also affect abortion rights. Know in detail why this election is significant for the state. Key Points
Economic TimesFali Nariman passes away, leaves a legacy of legal brilliance and integrity
Fali Nariman, a highly respected jurist and senior advocate to the Supreme Court of India, passed away at the age of 95. Known for his contribution to international arbitration and his distinguished career as a constitutional lawyer, Nariman argued several famous cases and received numerous accolades. His death has been mourned by the legal fraternity and he leaves behind a legacy of integrity and wisdom. Key Points
Economic Times
Biden to sign executive order boosting US contraception access
U. S. President Joe Biden will sign an executive order aimed at strengthening access to contraception, the White House said, a year after the Supreme Court overturned the constitutional right to abortion. Key Points
The HinduRSS, BJP are Indian avatars of Adolf Hitler, says Tripura CPI(M) chief
Speaking at a seminar titled ‘Save Constitution, Save Rights’ in Agartala, Chaudhury said that India was in a difficult situation and democratic, constitutional and human rights were at stake in the country. The seminar was organised to commemorate the 133rd birth anniversary of BR Ambedkar. Key Points
The Indian ExpressKovind panel suggests 18 amendments to Constitution, other statutes for simultaneous polls
A high-level committee on simultaneous elections in India has proposed 18 amendments to the Constitution and other statutes to implement the proposal. The panel, led by former president Ram Nath Kovind, recommends simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state assemblies as the first step followed by synchronised local body polls within 100 days. Key Points
Economic Times'A great giant of law and an intellectual', senior advocate Fali S Nariman dies at 95
Nariman, in his legal career spanning over 7 decades, was a part of cases that shaped constitutional law in independent India. PM Narendra Modi, CJI DY Chandrachud mourned his death. Key Points
ThePrintSC verdict on Article 370 settles J&K question. But it dilutes powers of states
Supreme Court affirmed that federalism & democracy are part of the Constitution’s basic structure. But its verdict undermined these core constitutional values to some extent. Key Points
ThePrint
Pakistan election commission criticises President Alvi for making inappropriate moves ahead of February 8 elections
Statements made by the president in connection with upcoming elections seemed to be in conflict with his constitutional role, says interim govt’s spokesperson. Pakistan’s election commission has accused President Arif Alvi of making inappropriate moves after he rallied behind concerns raised by jailed former prime minister Imran Khan’s party demanding a level playing field in the next general elections. Key Points
The Tribune IndiaSC seeks govt reply on Tamil Nadu plea accusing Governor of delaying bills
The Supreme Court has sought a response from the Indian government on a petition filed by the Tamil Nadu government against delays by the governor in processing bills. The court has called the issues raised a "matter of serious concern." | Latest News India Key Points
Hindustan TimesA ballot exercise and reminder of the Maoist menace
Although Maoist attacks have declined in recent years, polling day saw disturbances. That this insurgency isn’t over reveals a need to ensure that nobody can claim they are denied the benefits of India’s constitutional set-up. Key Points
mintThis procedure is banned in the US. Why is it a hot topic in fight over Ohio's abortion amendment?
Anti-abortion groups in Ohio are using the term partial-birth abortion in their messaging against a reproductive rights measure, despite the procedure being federally prohibited for over 15 years. The opposition campaign claims that the constitutional amendment would allow partial-birth abortions, but constitutional scholars argue that it would not override the existing federal ban. Ohio is the only state voting on abortion legality this November, but the issue will continue to be a central topic in future races in several states. Key Points
Economic TimesCongress to oppose Delhi services ordinance in Parliament
In response to questions on the Congress stand in Parliament on the Delhi ordinance, Ramesh said, The Congress party has always fought against the Modi government's assault on constitutional rights and responsibilities of the democratically elected state governments and local governments. ...There is no question of not opposing it. Key Points
Economic Times
Deliberate disinformation drive being carried out against Parliament, constitutional institutions: Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi
Taking a dig at the Gandhi family, Mr. Naqvi said a "sinister conspiracy" by the "democratically defeated dynasty" in the country and "anti-India coterie" in some foreign countries, "is not a coincidence, but an experiment." Key Points
The Hindu