At the heart of the current upheaval is the Supreme Court’s acceptance, in November 2025, of a uniform definition for identifying hills and ranges within the Aravalli system based on an elevation-based criterion. According to this framework, only those landforms that rise 100 metres or more above the surrounding local relief and clusters of two or more such hills within 500 metres of each other are formally designated as part of the Aravalli Range. Critics argue this criteria could exclude vast swathes of ecologically vital terrain from legal protection, leaving them vulnerable to development pressures.

Proponents of the earlier ruling maintain it brings clarity to a long-standing regulatory ambiguity—however, opponents see it as weakening safeguards for a mountain system regarded as the “green lungs” of northern India.

Supreme Court Review Demand and Letter to CJI & President

Renewed public and activist pressure comes after environmental lawyer and advocate Hitendra Gandhi filed a representation urging the Supreme Court to revisit its treatment of the so-called “100-metre rule.” Addressed to Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and also sent to the President of India, the petition argues that a strict numerical threshold fails to account for the functional ecological contributions of lower hills, foothills, and slopes that are critical for groundwater recharge, biodiversity, and climate moderation.

Legal experts say that although the Supreme Court’s decision stands, avenues such as a Review Petition remain available if it can be demonstrated that the decision undermines public interest or environmental protection obligations. Such a petition could prompt the court to reconsider or clarify its interpretation. Analysts note that the court has previously entertained complex environmental issues when presented with significant evidence or broader interdisciplinary concern.

Government Position: No Relaxation, Protection “Intact”

In response to widespread alarm, the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEFCC) and the Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav have repeatedly sought to reassure the public. Officials emphasize that the Supreme Court-approved framework protects over 90% of the Aravalli region, and that the existing freeze on new mining leases remains in place until a management plan for sustainable mining is finalized.

Minister Yadav clarified in recent media briefings that the revised definition is not intended to weaken protections but to improve regulatory clarity and enforcement. He stated that no new mining leases will be granted across the Aravalli hills and that a detailed, district-wise conservation and management plan is being developed in collaboration with the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE).

In press interactions, Yadav also challenged what he described as misinformation spread by some media and online channels, reinforcing that ecological safeguards remain firm even as administrative definitions evolve.

Public Reaction: Protests and Online Outrage

The reaction among the public has been swift and intense. Across social and traditional media, hashtags like #SaveAravalli and #ProtectGreenIndia have gone viral, as protests spread from digital platforms to physical rallies and sit-ins in cities such as Jaipur, Udaipur, and Gurugram.

Activists warn that excluding lower hills from the legal definition could have far-reaching ecological consequences, making them susceptible to construction and extractive pressures. Street demonstrations have been accompanied by online campaigns, petitions, and signature drives calling for a comprehensive ecological re-evaluation rather than a purely geometric threshold.

Several civic groups have drawn attention to historical data from the Forest Survey of India, which indicates that a significant portion of the region’s hills lie below the 100-metre mark—terrain regarded by many as functionally indispensable for groundwater recharge and dust storm mitigation.

Expert Views: Ecological and Legal Perspectives

Environmental specialists, urban planners, and conservationists have voiced serious concerns:

• Dr. Anita Sharma, Environmental Scientist: “The Aravalli hills are more than geological formations—they are a complex living system. Excluding lower elevations on paper undermines decades of ecosystem service that sustain life in the NCR and beyond.”
• Legal Analyst P. R. Verma: “The apex court retains the power to revisit its interpretation if presented with credible evidence that the decision jeopardizes fundamental environmental principles. A coherent Review Petition could open that door.”

Broadly, experts agree that while regulatory definitions should aid enforcement, they must not compromise protection of critical ecological functions.

Political Echoes and Broader Debate

The Aravalli issue has also seeped into the political arena. Leaders across parties have engaged in debate, with some expressing concerns about environmental stewardship and others defending the government’s balance of ecological and economic interests. The debate has heightened political engagement, particularly in regions that directly border or encompass segments of the Aravalli system.

Looking Ahead: What’s at Stake?

The Aravalli range’s protection lies at the intersection of law, environment, and public policy. As debates continue in courtrooms, protest grounds, and government offices, one point is clear: the outcome of this controversy will shape not just regulatory practice but how India balances ecological heritage with development imperatives for decades to come.

With public scrutiny high and legal challenges underway, the nation watches whether the Supreme Court will grant a fresh hearing or clarification that could reaffirm broader protections for one of its most critical natural assets.

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The Delhi Excise Policy Controversy

The Delhi excise policy, introduced by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, was intended to regulate liquor sales and distribution in the national capital. However, it soon attracted scrutiny, with allegations surfacing about irregularities and favoritism in the allocation of liquor licenses.

In 2022, the Delhi government scrapped the excise policy following an outcry from opposition parties and a CBI investigation into the matter. The CBI alleged that the excise policy had been designed to benefit certain private companies and individuals, violating established norms.

The case grew into a political flashpoint, with the opposition accusing the AAP government of corruption and mismanagement. The investigation intensified, and in a dramatic turn, Arvind Kejriwal was named in the case along with other key officials.

Arvind Kejriwal’s Arrest and Imprisonment

In October 2023, Arvind Kejriwal was arrested by the CBI in connection with the excise policy case. The arrest came after multiple rounds of questioning by the CBI, which accused the Delhi CM of being involved in a “scam” that caused significant financial losses to the exchequer.

Following his arrest, Kejriwal was sent to judicial custody in Delhi’s Tihar Jail, creating a massive stir in both political and public circles. AAP leaders called the arrest politically motivated and accused the central government of misusing investigative agencies to target political opponents.

Supreme Court Grants Bail

On Friday, the Supreme Court granted bail to Arvind Kejriwal after hearing arguments from both the defense and the CBI. The court noted that while the investigation into the excise policy case is ongoing, there was no substantial ground to deny bail to the Delhi Chief Minister at this stage. The court emphasized the importance of the principle that bail, not jail, should be the rule, especially in cases where the accused is not deemed a flight risk.

Kejriwal’s defense team argued that the charges against him were politically motivated and lacked solid evidence. They contended that the Delhi excise policy had been implemented transparently and that Kejriwal had no personal involvement in any wrongdoing. The Supreme Court appeared to agree, granting bail to Kejriwal with certain conditions, while allowing the CBI to continue its investigation.

AAP’s Reaction to the Verdict

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision to grant bail to Arvind Kejriwal. Senior AAP leaders and party workers celebrated outside Tihar Jail as Kejriwal walked out, hailing the court’s ruling as a victory for justice.

Addressing the media after his release, Kejriwal reiterated his innocence and accused the central government of orchestrating his arrest to suppress the AAP’s growing influence. He vowed to continue fighting for the people of Delhi and promised to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation.

Kejriwal’s supporters believe that his arrest and imprisonment were part of a larger political strategy to damage his reputation ahead of upcoming elections in Delhi and other states. However, the Supreme Court’s decision to grant bail has given a morale boost to the AAP and its supporters.

What’s Next in the Excise Policy Case?

Although Arvind Kejriwal has been granted bail, the Delhi excise policy case is far from over. The CBI has been directed to continue its investigation into the alleged irregularities, and there is a possibility of further legal proceedings in the case.

The Delhi CM’s release from jail is only the beginning of what promises to be a prolonged legal and political battle. With the opposition continuing to press for answers, and the CBI intensifying its probe, Kejriwal and his government will remain under the spotlight in the coming months.

The Supreme Court’s decision to grant bail to Arvind Kejriwal in the Delhi excise policy case marks a significant moment in Indian politics. While Kejriwal has walked out of Tihar Jail, the ongoing investigation into the excise policy will continue to be a major issue. For now, the AAP leader can focus on governance and upcoming political challenges, but the future of the excise policy case remains uncertain.

This case, with its mix of legal, political, and public interest dimensions, will continue to capture the nation’s attention in the days ahead.

Arvind Kejriwal’s journey from an activist to CM

Arvind Kejriwal’s journey from an activist to a prominent Indian politician is a remarkable story of determination and belief in change. Born in 1968, in the northern state of Haryana, Kejriwal started his career far from the political spotlight. He pursued a degree in mechanical engineering at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur and worked in the Indian Revenue Service as a civil servant.

However, it was his passion for social change that ultimately steered his life in a new direction. In the early 2000s, Kejriwal became a key figure in India’s Right to Information (RTI) movement, advocating for transparency and accountability in government processes. His work in the RTI movement earned him the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2006, sometimes referred to as Asia’s Nobel Prize.

Kejriwal’s activism reached new heights when he joined forces with veteran social activist Anna Hazare during the 2011 anti-corruption movement in India. This movement, calling for the implementation of the Jan Lokpal Bill (an anti-corruption law), resonated with millions across the country, frustrated by the growing cases of corruption.

Despite the movement’s widespread popularity, Kejriwal saw the limitations of activism without political power. In 2012, he made a bold decision—he transitioned from activism to politics by founding the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), a political party focused on eradicating corruption and championing the rights of the common people.

Kejriwal’s most significant political achievement came when he became the Chief Minister of Delhi in 2013, albeit for just 49 days in his first term. He resigned over the inability to pass the Jan Lokpal Bill in the Delhi Assembly, a decision that drew both criticism and admiration.

He made a remarkable comeback in 2015, leading the AAP to a sweeping victory by winning 67 out of 70 seats in the Delhi Legislative Assembly. Under his leadership, the AAP focused on key areas like improving education, healthcare, and water supply in the national capital. His approach to governance emphasized grassroots involvement and people-centered policies.

Since then, Kejriwal has served multiple terms as Delhi’s Chief Minister, continuing to build his political career on the foundations of transparency and service to the common people. His policies, especially in education and healthcare, have drawn national attention, with many seeing his governance style as a model for urban development in India.

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Role of the NTA:

The NTA (National Testing Agency) conducts the NEET-UG exam for admission to MBBS, BDS, AYUSH, and other related courses in both government and private institutions across the India.

The court decided not to stop the admissions counselling process. If any of the 1,563 candidates choose not to take the retest, their original marks (without the extra marks) will be used for their results.
The results of the re-test will be announced on June 30, and the government said that counselling for admission to MBBS, BDS, and other courses will begin on July 6.

Allegations Over Perfect Scores

A record 67 students scored a perfect 720, which has never happened before. Six of these students are from a centre in Faridabad, Haryana, raising concerns about possible cheating also they were from the same coaching centre.

Student Protests

On June 10, many students protested in Delhi, demanding an investigation into the alleged cheating. It has also been claimed that the grace marks contributed to these 67 students getting the top rank.
Petitioners from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh said that there was “no clear reason” for the grace marks.
They pointed out that some students received “statistically impossible” scores, including perfect scores of 720 out of 720.

The Supreme Court announced that all petitions, including those asking for the cancellation of NEET-UG 2024
due to the allegations of irregularities, will be reviewed on July 8.

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During the proceedings, Justice Hima Kohli and Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah expressed dismay at the insincere apologies from Patanjali and its founders, particularly focusing on Dr Mithilesh Kumar, the Joint Director of the state’s Food and Drug Administration. Dr Kumar, seeking leniency, explained that he assumed his role after the incidents occurred, but the court was unsympathetic.

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The court questioned why action was not taken against Patanjali despite repeated violations and even suspended three officers from the drug licensing authority for their inaction. It highlighted that the Uttarakhand FDA’s response, issuing warnings to Patanjali, was insufficient under the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act.

The court criticized Dr Kumar for failing to seek legal advice and take appropriate steps after receiving notices from the Health Ministry regarding misleading advertisements. Despite Dr Kumar’s assurance of registering action, the court ordered him to remain inactive for some time, condemning the negligence that endangered public health.

This condemnation follows previous reprimands directed at Patanjali’s co-founders for defying court orders and continuing to publish misleading advertisements. The court has also questioned the AYUSH Ministry’s inaction against Patanjali’s objectionable ads that undermined conventional medicine.

The legal dispute originated from a petition by the Indian Medical Association, which accused Baba Ramdev of conducting a smear campaign against COVID-19 vaccinations and modern medicine. The court’s intervention highlights the gravity of the issue and the importance of upholding regulations to protect public health and combat misinformation in advertising.

In summary, the Supreme Court’s stern rebuke of both the Uttarakhand drug licensing authority and Patanjali Ayurved underscores the need for strict enforcement of laws governing advertisement practices, especially in matters concerning public health and safety. The court’s actions aim to hold accountable those responsible for misleading advertisements and to uphold the integrity of regulatory frameworks aimed at safeguarding public welfare.

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The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader’s arrest on March 21 by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) prompted his legal team to file a petition in the Delhi High Court, seeking to challenge the legality of his arrest. However, the high court ruled against Kejriwal’s challenge, citing his repeated failure to comply with summonses issued by the ED in connection with the money laundering case. The court emphasized that investigative agencies must treat all individuals equally, without affording special treatment based solely on their public office.

In response to the high court’s decision, AAP leader and Delhi Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj criticized the ED and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), highlighting that no incriminating evidence had been found during their investigations related to the Delhi liquor policy case. Bharadwaj alleged witness tampering and pressure tactics by investigative agencies.

Bharadwaj drew parallels between Kejriwal’s case and that of AAP MP Sanjay Singh, pointing out that while the high court had denied relief to Singh, the Supreme Court had granted him bail. This juxtaposition underscores the political significance and legal complexity of the ongoing proceedings.

Arvind Kejriwal’s current appeal to the Supreme Court marks his return to the highest judicial authority in seeking redressal for his arrest. Notably, Kejriwal had previously approached the Supreme Court immediately after his arrest, only to withdraw his petition later in favor of pursuing legal remedies in the trial court.

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The underlying controversy revolves around allegations of irregularities linked to the Delhi government’s liquor policy, which was enacted in 2021 and subsequently repealed in the following year. The policy changes are suspected to have conferred undue benefits upon liquor licensees. Following a recommendation from Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, the CBI initiated an investigation into these allegations, while the ED is probing potential financial misconduct associated with the case.

In addition to Arvind Kejriwal, former Deputy Chief Minister and senior AAP leader Manish Sisodia is currently incarcerated in connection with the liquor policy case. Meanwhile, AAP MP Sanjay Singh, also embroiled in the same legal proceedings, has been released on bail.

The progression of events underscores the multifaceted legal and political dimensions surrounding the Delhi liquor policy case. Kejriwal’s appeal to the Supreme Court reflects a pivotal moment in his efforts to challenge the legal ramifications of his arrest and to navigate the complex legal landscape surrounding these contentious allegations.

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The post Arvind Kejriwal Back In Supreme Court After 18 Days And High Court Setback appeared first on FIRSTRAY NEWS.

Details of the Case:

1. Supreme Court Notice: The Supreme Court has taken cognizance of a plea challenging the Tamil Nadu government’s alleged ban on the live telecast of the “Pran Prathishta” ceremony of Lord Ram in Ayodhya. The court has issued a notice to the state government and others involved.
2. State’s Response: The Tamil Nadu government has informed the Supreme Court that there are no restrictions on the live telecast, poojas, archanas, annadhanas, and bhajans during the “Pran Prathishta” ceremony. The government dismisses the allegations, asserting that the plea is driven by political motives.
3. Permission Criteria: The Supreme Court emphasizes that permission cannot be denied solely on the grounds that other communities reside in the locality. It advocates for a harmonious society and advises against preventing events based on the diversity of communities.
4. Finance Minister’s Accusations: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had accused the Tamil Nadu government of banning live telecasts of Ayodhya Ram Mandir programs. She alleged anti-Hindu actions by the DMK-led government and claimed restrictions on puja, bhajan, prasadam, and annadanam in the name of Lord Ram in HR and CE-managed temples.
5. State’s Denial: The Tamil Nadu administration denies the accusations made by Nirmala Sitharaman, labeling them as “false news with ulterior motives.” The state asserts that no ban or restrictions have been imposed on events related to the Ayodhya Ram Mandir consecration.

The Supreme Court’s issuance of a notice and the Tamil Nadu government’s response highlight the legal and political dimensions surrounding the alleged ban on live telecasts of Ayodhya Ram Mandir events. As the “Pran Prathishta” ceremony unfolds in Ayodhya, the court proceedings will shed light on the veracity of the allegations and the constitutional principles governing religious practices and events in India.

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Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed condolences, highlighting Justice Beevi’s life as a remarkable chapter in women’s empowerment. He emphasized her unique strength in overcoming obstacles and noted her contributions to constitutional matters during her tenure as the governor of Tamil Nadu.

Justice Beevi, born in Pathanamthitta in 1927, was the eldest of eight children. Her father, Annaveetil Meera Sahib, a government employee, played a crucial role in supporting and encouraging the education of his children, particularly his six daughters, at a time when educational opportunities for Muslim girls were limited.

Having completed her schooling at Catholicate School in Pathanamthitta in 1943 and graduated in Chemistry from Women’s College, Justice Beevi initially aspired for a post-graduation in Chemistry. However, her father, inspired by the story of Anna Chandy, the first woman judicial officer in Travancore, persuaded her to pursue a law course, believing it would open more opportunities for career advancement.

In 1950, Justice Beevi made history by becoming the first woman law graduate to receive the gold medal from the Bar Council after passing the mandatory exam for enrollment as a lawyer. She continued to break barriers, entering the judicial service as a munsiff in 1958 and eventually becoming a district sessions judge in 1974.

Apart from her accomplishments in the legal profession, Justice Beevi served as the governor of Tamil Nadu from 1997 to 2001. Her legacy extends beyond her individual achievements, standing as an inspiration for the entire society, particularly women, and contributing to Kerala’s recognition as the state that produced the country’s first woman judge.

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The Supreme Court held a hearing on the sedition law on Monday. In which the central government appealed to avoid the hearing while the petitioner’s lawyer Kapil Sibal opposed it. The Supreme Court has given a day’s time advising the Central government to reconsider the Sedition Act and sought answers on how it will tackle the current pending cases and future offences.

Earlier, the central government, while clarifying its stance in the sedition case before the court, said that the central executive has taken this new decision keeping in mind the national interest and the unity and integrity of the country. However, this provision of penalty shall not be removed. No one can say that those who work against the country should not be punished. The government is working to amend it so that the hearing is postponed for now.

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