High court reserves judgment on row over photographers in Konark temple

Cuttack: Orissa high court on Thursday reserved judgment on the row over photographers at Konark Sun Temple after the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) fixed matriculation as minimum qualification to operate at the 13th century monument, which is also a world heritage site.Initially, photographers who had been issued licence by the ASI had moved the high court in 2015 with grievance that unchecked photography at the Sun Temple was adversely affecting their livelihood. While disposing of the petition on January 5, 2022, a single judge bench had ordered, “It follows that apart from tourists, only those who have valid licence for purpose of conducting photography in precincts of protected monuments are to be allowed to enter.”But the matter returned to the HC after an appeal was filed with the ASI adopting a policy under which it issued licence only to those photographers who fulfilled the minimum matriculation qualification criteria. The ASI had issued licenses to only 10 candidates who fulfilled the criteria. But the appeal claimed the policy affected the livelihood of 154 photographers who had been operating inside the temple for decades.

BRS MLAs' case: Hearing ends, Telangana high court reserves judgment

Justice B Vijaysen Reddy of Telangana High Court concluded hearings on writ petitions filed by BRS and BJP to disqualify three defected BRS MLAs under anti-defection law. Senior advocates argued that the petitions were filed prematurely before the Lok Sabha polls to gain publicity. The judge reserved his judgment after considering various legal precedents.

ASI statement sparks mandir-masjid row

A controversy emerged in Madhya Pradesh over the Vijay Surya Mandir, managed by the ASI. Hindu groups sought permission to worship on Aug 9, which was denied after ASI classified the site as a mosque per a 1951 notification. Hindu groups claim it has been a place of worship since 1972.

March of tech unstoppable: CJI opens portal to display high court judgments

Chief Justice of India, Justice DY Chandrachud, emphasized the importance of embracing technological advancements to improve court accessibility and efficiency. Speaking at the launch of the e-DHCR portal, he highlighted its role in democratizing legal knowledge. The portal offers access to Delhi High Court judgments since 1968. Additionally, a caf managed by neurodiverse individuals was inaugurated.

Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India. Don't miss daily games like Crossword, Sudoku, Location Guesser and Mini Crossword.