CJI Surya Kant Addresses NLSIU Bengaluru Convocation Amid Student Agitations and Row
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant addressed the convocation ceremony at the National Law School of India University in Bengaluru following weeks of student protests and uncertainty. The event had been rescheduled after earlier agitations, mirroring previous objections raised by students at NALSAR University of Law in Hyderabad. Speaking to the graduating law students, the CJI noted that the period leading up to the gathering was marked by challenges and uncertainty caused by external forces. He stressed the importance of intellectual independence, open discourse over suppression, distinguishing individuals from positions, and maintaining dignity while disagreeing.
DMK MPs Meet In Chennai, Demand Removal Of SIR, Return To Ballot Papers And Support Youth Protests
The DMK convened a meeting of party Members of Parliament at the headquarters in Chennai to discuss issues regarding the SIR process. The party voiced support for youth and student demonstrations, with representatives attending protests to stand with citizens. The party decided to seek time with the President to submit a memorandum requesting the complete revocation of the SIR process and a return to ballot papers in future elections. The party stated that large-scale voter deletions during the process caused its assembly election defeat. In addition, the party stated it will never enter into an alliance with the Congress.
Veteran Music Composer Dies at 76; Cinema Industry Mourns; Over 400 Film Scores Remembered
A veteran music composer has passed away at the age of 76 at a private hospital in Chennai due to health issues. Having made a debut in 1986, the composer scored music for over 400 films across Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam cinema. Known for scoring iconic themes and tracks for leading film stars, the composer maintained decades of close collaboration within the film industry. Tributes and condolences were offered by political leaders and cinema personalities, with industry members paying their last respects.
SC Child Sexual Abuse Order: Guidelines for Social Media, National Database & Safeguards
The Supreme Court has issued directions to the Centre to formulate guidelines for social media platforms to address child sexual abuse material online. Rejecting a blanket ban on internet access for children, the court observed that access to the internet is a fundamental right. It directed the Centre to develop a national database for perceptual hash matching and URL lists to flag and remove abusive content across platforms. Emphasising the need for safeguards, the court mandated grievance redressal mechanisms and verification before deletions to prevent political misuse or targeting of dissent. The apex court also highlighted primary school safety awareness programmes and noted regulatory authorities and intermediaries must make collective efforts to remove harmful content.