Top 5 Landmark Supreme Court Judgments of 2024: Shaping Justice and Democracy

The year 2024 witnessed the Supreme Court of India delivering a series of transformative judgments that significantly impacted the nation’s legal, political, and social landscapes. From reaffirming constitutional rights to promoting transparency and accountability, these rulings addressed critical issues ranging from electoral reforms and individual liberties to criminal justice and governance. With judicial interventions shaping national debates, the apex court reaffirmed its role as the guardian of constitutional values and the protector of fundamental rights.

Additionally, the Court’s emphasis on individual liberties was evident in granting bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and extending the decriminalization of adultery to the armed forces, reflecting progressive interpretations of the law. The reaffirmation of the right to protest further showcased the judiciary’s efforts to balance individual freedoms with societal harmony.

These judgments collectively highlight the evolving jurisprudence of the Supreme Court, shaping the legal framework to address contemporary challenges and ensuring that justice remains accessible, equitable, and relevant in modern India.

1. Withdrawal of Remission Granted to Bilkis Bano Convicts

In a significant judgment, the Supreme Court quashed the Gujarat government's order to release 11 convicts involved in the heinous gang rape of Bilkis Bano and the murder of her family members during the 2002 Gujarat riots. Originally sentenced to life imprisonment by a Mumbai court, the convicts had their remission controversially approved by the Gujarat government.

The Court emphasized that the appropriate authority to consider remission was the Maharashtra government, given that the trial and sentencing occurred in Mumbai. The judgment criticized the Gujarat government for acting "in tandem" with the convicts, highlighting a breach of the rule of law. Justice B.V. Nagarathna underscored that remission applications should only be entertained when convicts demonstrate genuine respect for legal principles. Furthermore, the Court affirmed its authority to quash administrative remission orders that contravene justice.

Implications:

This ruling reinforces the sanctity of judicial processes and the importance of adhering to jurisdictional protocols in remission matters. It serves as a precedent ensuring that executive decisions on remission are subject to judicial scrutiny, especially in cases involving grave offenses.

2. Invalidating the Electoral Bonds Scheme

In a unanimous decision, a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court invalidated the 2018 Electoral Bonds Scheme, which permitted anonymous donations to political parties by corporations, individuals, and organizations. The Court held that voters possess the right to be informed about the sources of political funding, a cornerstone of transparent and fair elections.

Among the notable judgments, the quashing of remission for Bilkis Bano’s convicts underscored the judiciary’s commitment to justice in sensitive cases. The landmark decision invalidating the Electoral Bonds Scheme reinforced the principles of transparency and fairness in political funding.

The judgment criticized the scheme for failing to protect donor anonymity effectively and for not fulfilling its intended purpose. The Court mandated an immediate cessation of bond sales and directed the Election Commission and the State Bank of India to publicly disclose all data related to electoral bond transactions.

Implications:

This landmark ruling enhances electoral transparency, enabling citizens to scrutinize the financial underpinnings of political entities. By dismantling the veil of anonymity in political donations, the judgment aims to curb potential quid pro quo arrangements and corruption, thereby strengthening democratic processes.

3. Bail Granted to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal

The Supreme Court granted bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the Delhi Liquor Policy scam. The Court noted Kejriwal's prolonged incarceration and the improbability of his trial commencing soon, leading to his release.

Implications:

This decision signifies a shift towards a more lenient interpretation of bail provisions under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. It underscores the judiciary's recognition of the need to balance stringent anti-corruption measures with the protection of individual liberties, especially concerning pre-trial detentions.

4. Decriminalization of Adultery in the Armed Forces

In a progressive move, the Supreme Court extended its 2018 judgment decriminalizing adultery to the armed forces. The Court ruled that adultery could not be a criminal offense within military establishments, aligning military law with the constitutional principles upheld in civilian contexts.

Implications:

This ruling harmonizes the application of fundamental rights across civilian and military domains, reinforcing the principle of equality before the law. It also prompts a reevaluation of disciplinary codes within the armed forces to ensure they conform to constitutional mandates.

5. Affirmation of the Right to Protest

The Supreme Court reaffirmed the constitutional right to peaceful protest, emphasizing that such demonstrations are integral to democratic discourse. The Court clarified that while protests are fundamental rights, they must be balanced against the rights of others and public order considerations.

Implications:

This judgment delineates the contours of the right to protest, providing guidance on maintaining harmony between individual freedoms and societal interests. It serves as a reference point for future cases involving civil liberties and state regulations.

The Supreme Court's judgments in 2024 have significantly shaped India's legal and social framework. These decisions underscore the judiciary's role in upholding constitutional values, ensuring justice, and fostering a transparent and equitable society.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court’s landmark judgments in 2024 underscore its pivotal role in upholding constitutional values, ensuring justice, and shaping a more equitable society. These rulings addressed critical issues such as the sanctity of judicial processes, electoral transparency, individual liberties, and democratic rights. By quashing the Gujarat government’s remission of convicts in the Bilkis Bano case, the Court reaffirmed the rule of law and the need for jurisdictional integrity in executive decisions. Similarly, the invalidation of the Electoral Bonds Scheme emphasized the importance of transparency in political funding, strengthening the democratic fabric.

These judgments collectively reflect the Supreme Court’s proactive stance in addressing socio-political challenges while maintaining the delicate balance between individual rights and societal interests. As a guardian of constitutional democracy, the Court continues to shape the nation’s legal landscape, ensuring justice and fairness in a rapidly evolving society.