GUWAHATI: With Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud set to retire on November 10, the Supreme Court is expected to issue several significant rulings that could reshape key areas of Indian law and social policy. Among these anticipated judgments are decisions on the minority status of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), the validity of the Uttar Pradesh Board of Madarsa Education Act, 2004, and matters of wealth redistribution. Here’s a look at five pivotal verdicts expected soon from the CJI-led bench:
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1. Minority Status of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU): A highly debated issue in legal circles, the question of AMU's minority status awaits resolution. The Supreme Court’s seven-judge Constitution Bench concluded hearings on February 1 and reserved judgment. The case, led by AMU and the AMU Old Boys Association, challenges a 1968 ruling that classified AMU as a central, non-minority institution. The upcoming verdict could significantly impact AMU's governance and institutional identity.
2. Madarsa Education Act Validity: Another closely watched decision involves appeals from Madarsas and Muslim individuals against the Allahabad High Court's ruling that struck down the Uttar Pradesh Board of Madarsa Education Act, 2004. CJI Chandrachud highlighted the importance of secularism, stating, “secularism means to live and let live.” The ruling will clarify the legal framework governing Madarsa education in Uttar Pradesh.
3. Wealth Redistribution Case: The court is also set to decide whether Article 39(b) of the Constitution permits the government to redistribute private property in the public interest. Initiated amid political discourse on wealth redistribution, the nine-judge bench's ruling could have major implications for property rights and public policy.
4. Delhi Ridge Tree Felling Dispute: Another pending judgment addresses illegal tree felling in Delhi’s ridge area and examines the role of the Delhi Lieutenant Governor (LG) in this matter. LG VK Saxena previously stated he was unaware that court approval was required for tree removal in this protected area, asserting no wrongdoing by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) Vice Chairman. The verdict will focus on environmental safeguards and accountability in urban governance.
5. LMV License Scope: The final ruling will define the legal scope of light motor vehicle (LMV) licenses, specifically whether these licenses authorize the operation of transport vehicles classified as LMVs. This decision follows disputes about insurance claims involving accidents where drivers held LMV licenses while operating transport vehicles. The court reserved its ruling on this issue on August 21.