The Delhi High Court is a high court located in New Delhi, the capital of India. It has jurisdiction over the Union Territory of Delhi, and is one of the three high courts in India’s capital region, along with the High Court of Uttar Pradesh in Allahabad and the High Court of Rajasthan in Jaipur. The Delhi High Court is known for its progressive judgments on issues such as human rights and the environment.
Landmark Judgements of Delhi High Court in India
Some of the landmark judgments of the Delhi High Court include:
Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code: In 2009, the Delhi High Court delivered a landmark judgment, which decriminalized homosexuality.
Right to Privacy: In 2017, the Delhi High Court held that the right to privacy is a fundamental right under the Indian Constitution.
National Anthem: In 2016, the Delhi High Court ruled that playing the national anthem in cinema halls before the start of a film is not mandatory, though it should be respected.
Environmental Protection: In 2018, the Delhi High Court passed a judgment stating that the government must take steps to reduce air pollution in the city.
Animal Rights: In 2017, the Delhi High Court banned the use of animals for entertainment in circuses and ordered the release of all animals kept in captivity for such purposes.
Right to Education: In 2012, the Delhi High Court passed a judgment making it mandatory for private schools in Delhi to reserve 25% of their seats for children from economically and socially disadvantaged backgrounds.
These are some of the notable judgements passed by Delhi High Court, there are many more across various domains.
Nirbhaya Rape Case in India
The “Nirbhaya” rape case refers to the brutal gang rape and murder of a 23-year-old woman in New Delhi, India, on December 16, 2012. The victim, whose name has been withheld by the Indian government, came to be known as “Nirbhaya,” which means “fearless,” in the media. The attack occurred on a bus she was traveling in with her male friend. The incident sparked widespread protests and demonstrations across India, leading to a series of legal and policy changes aimed at improving women’s safety and addressing gender-based violence.
The case was heard by a fast-track court, and in September 2013, four adult defendants were found guilty and sentenced to death. One defendant, who was a juvenile at the time of the crime, was sentenced to three years in a reformatory. The death sentences were upheld by the Delhi High Court in March 2014 and by the Supreme Court of India in May 2017. The four adult defendants were hanged on 20 March 2020.
The case received widespread media coverage and sparked public outrage and protests throughout India, leading to significant changes in laws relating to sexual crimes and the protection of women. It also led to discussions about the treatment of women in Indian society and the need for cultural and attitudinal changes to ensure the safety and equality of women.