orissa high court

Three orissa high court judges cycled to work on Monday, covering 4-5 km each way to promote fuel conservation and environmental awareness. This initiative aligns with the Prime Minister's call to reduce petrol and diesel dependence, sending a powerful message for sustainable living.

The orissa high court has ruled that statutory authorities cannot usurp powers not expressly conferred by law. The court stayed an interim suspension order on a sand quarry lessee, finding no provision in the Odisha Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 2016, for such immediate action pending adjudication of alleged violations.

The orissa high court is demanding answers from the Centre regarding strict adherence to safety advisories for ships carrying ammonium nitrate, especially at Paradip Port. The court emphasized the explosive nature of the chemical and potential risks to public safety. A PIL highlighted concerns over handling large quantities of this substance at Indian ports.

The orissa high court has upheld the Odisha government's decision to increase the financial powers of Block Development Officers to Rs 10 lakh without requiring the countersignature of panchayat samiti chairpersons. The court dismissed concerns that this move weakens elected representatives, citing existing safeguards and the amendment's aim for timely execution and transparency.

The orissa high court has expressed displeasure with the state government for delays in submitting a report on pension benefits for aided educational institution employees. The court has warned of punitive action against committee members if lapses are found and has ordered the state to disclose the committee's progress and members by May 21.

The orissa high court has ordered the State government to grant pension and retiral benefits to a retired municipal employee who served continuously for nearly 24 years. Justice R K Pattanaik ruled that denying benefits to an employee appointed against a sanctioned post, even if initially irregular, is a travesty of justice.

The orissa high court has ruled that individuals holding public office are not disqualified from serving as election or counting agents. This decision dismissed a petition challenging the election of BJD MLA Aswini Kumar Patra.

The orissa high court upheld the installation of road barricades in Cuttack's CDA area, emphasizing proactive safety measures against rising accidents. Dismissing a PIL, the court ruled that government policies based on data for public safety should not be easily challenged.

The orissa high court has ordered the Deputy Director of Mines in Berhampur to address a complaint regarding illegal laterite soil and stone extraction on government land in Ganjam district. Villagers had reported significant losses to the exchequer and environmental damage from these activities.

The orissa high court rejected the bail pleas of 17 individuals accused in the Odisha Police Sub-Inspector recruitment scam, deeming question paper leaks a "crime against society." Justice Satapathy emphasized the need for a strict approach to such socio-economic offenses, noting the conspiracy's impact on fair selection and the cancellation of the examination twice.

Tribal villagers have approached the orissa high court, alleging the state government's prolonged inaction in implementing the PESA Act, 1996. They seek directions to frame and enforce long-pending rules, arguing the delay deprives gram sabhas of self-governance and protection of community resources, leading to exploitation of tribal lands and resources.

The orissa high court dismissed a PIL challenging barricades in Cuttack's CDA area, emphasizing proactive road safety measures. The court ruled that such data-based government policies, aimed at preventing accidents in residential zones, should not be interfered with. It noted the barricades appeared temporary and did not fully obstruct emergency vehicles.

The orissa high court has criticized the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) and Cuttack Development Authority (CDA) for the poor condition of city parks, deeming their submitted reports inaccurate. The court noted a lack of basic facilities like drinking water and clean toilets, directing the CMC to file a fresh affidavit by July 13.

The orissa high court has directed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to proactively maintain cleanliness at Satyabrata Stadium, acknowledging the Cuttack Municipal Corporation's (CMC) resource constraints. A joint meeting between CMC and ASI is mandated to establish a long-term solution, with CMC continuing bi-weekly cleaning in the interim.

The orissa high court has ordered the state to report progress on pension benefits for aided educational institution employees by May 21. A high-power committee is examining the issue, with the court warning of punitive action for any lapses. This follows a single judge's ruling that employees are entitled to pension and retiral benefits.

The orissa high court has stayed an interim suspension order on a sand quarry lessee, ruling that statutory authorities cannot "usurp power" not expressly conferred by law. The court found no provision in the 2016 Rules authorizing interim suspension of quarry operations pending adjudication of alleged violations. The matter is listed for further hearing.

The orissa high court has questioned the Centre on strict adherence to safety advisories for handling hazardous ammonium nitrate cargo at ports, especially Paradip. A PIL highlighted concerns over public safety and port infrastructure, prompting the court to seek clarification on the implementation of a 2025 advisory mandating mid-sea anchorage for ships with large ammonium nitrate loads.

The orissa high court has ruled that individuals holding public office are permitted to serve as election agents for candidates. This decision led to the dismissal of a petition challenging BJD MLA Aswini Kumar Patra's victory.

Tribal organizations are taking a stand by petitioning the orissa high court, claiming the state's chronic delays in enforcing the PESA Act, 1996. Despite being enacted almost three decades ago, Odisha has not put into place the necessary legislation, resulting in tribal Gram Sabhas lacking the constitutional authority needed for self-rule and the safeguarding of their resources.

The orissa high court denied bail to BJD leader Dillip Kumar Nayak, arrested in a multi-crore cheating case. Justice Satapathy cited serious financial impropriety and the ongoing investigation, noting it's too early to deem the case civil. Nayak faces allegations of duping an investor of over Rs 15 crore in a real estate venture.