Legal Bites June 2025: Monthly Legal Updates

Welcome to the Legal Bites Monthly Legal Updates for June 2025! This edition brings you a comprehensive roundup of the 52 most important legal, national, and international developments that made headlines in June 2025. From groundbreaking court verdicts and transformative government initiatives to historic sporting moments, global policy shifts, and technological breakthroughs, this month captured a dynamic snapshot of change and continuity.

Whether you’re a law student, legal professional, policymaker, or an engaged citizen, this curated summary offers valuable insights into how these events are shaping India’s legal framework and influencing global discourse. Scroll down to stay informed and updated!

June 2025: Key Legal, National, and International Highlights

1. India Clinches 21 Medals at Ulaanbaatar Open 2025: India delivered a stellar performance at the Ulaanbaatar Open 2025—part of the United World Wrestling (UWW) Ranking Series—held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia from May 29 to June 1, 2025. The Indian contingent secured 21 medals (6 gold, 7 silver, and 8 bronze), finishing second in the overall medal table behind host nation Mongolia. (June 1, 2025)
2. South Africa’s Heinrich Klaasen Retires from International Cricket: South African wicketkeeper-batter Heinrich Klaasen, aged 33, has announced his immediate retirement from international cricket on 2 June 2025, citing a desire to focus on family and franchise T20 opportunities after a distinguished seven-year white-ball career. (June 2, 2025)
3. Elon Musk Launches XChat: Elon Musk has unveiled XChat, a new encrypted messaging feature on X (formerly Twitter), aiming to rival apps like WhatsApp and Telegram. Initially available to premium users, XChat includes end-to-end encryption, disappearing messages, file sharing of all types, and audio/video calls without requiring a phone number. (June 3, 2025)
4. Five New Non-Permanent Members of the UN Security Council: The UN General Assembly elected Bahrain, Colombia, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Liberia, and Latvia as non-permanent members of the UN Security Council for the 2026–2027 term. These countries will join the 15-member Council from January 1, 2026, replacing Algeria, Guyana, South Korea, Sierra Leone, and Slovenia. Notably, Latvia will serve on the Council for the first time in its history. (June 3, 2025)
5. Supreme Court Clarifies Preconditions for Refusing Industrial Closure under Section 25-O: The Supreme Court in Harinagar Sugar Mills Ltd. v. State of Maharashtra (2025) held that a refusal to permit industrial closure under Section 25-O must come from a competent authority and be timely, well-reasoned, and procedurally sound. Emphasising that closure is a serious legal act, the Court ruled that the State’s power is not absolute and must be exercised with constitutional fairness and legislative discipline, protecting the interests of both employers and employees. (June 4, 2025)
6. Supreme Court Cautions Against Overreliance on Circumstantial Evidence: In Vaibhav v. State of Maharashtra (2025), the Supreme Court set aside the murder conviction of a medical student accused of killing his friend with his father’s pistol, ruling that the circumstantial evidence did not form a complete and conclusive chain of guilt. (June 4, 2025)
7. Supreme Court Upholds Railways’ Right to Act Against Misdeclared Goods Post-Delivery: The Supreme Court’s judgment in Union of India v. Kamakhya Transport Pvt. Ltd. settles an important question in railway freight jurisprudence. Delivery is not the end of liability when it comes to misdeclared goods. The ruling upholds the Railways’ right to enforce compliance post-delivery, thereby protecting the integrity of its freight operations. (June 5, 2025)
8. PM Modi Launches “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” Campaign: On World Environment Day 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the nationwide “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” (One Tree in the Name of Mother) campaign at Buddha Jayanti Park, Delhi, by planting a Peepal sapling. The initiative encourages citizens to plant a tree in honour of their mother, linking emotional gratitude with environmental stewardship.  (June 5, 2025)
9. Bengaluru Declared India’s Leopard Capital: Bengaluru has emerged as India’s new ‘Leopard Capital’ after a year-long camera trap survey recorded 80–85 leopards across its outskirts—more than any other metro, including Mumbai. Around 54 leopards were found in Bannerghatta National Park, with others roaming nearby forest patches and private lands. (June 5, 2025)
10. Medical Proof Alone Not Enough to Prosecute for Rape, Rules J&K High Court: In Basit Bashir v. UT of J&K (2025), the Jammu & Kashmir High Court held that medical evidence confirming intercourse is not sufficient to frame rape charges without credible proof linking the accused. The Court quashed charges under IPC and POCSO, noting the absence of allegations from the victims, lack of forensic evidence, and the voluntary nature of their interaction with the petitioner. The ruling reinforces that rape accusations must be backed by solid, corroborative evidence—not mere suspicion. (June 6, 2025)
11. India Inaugurates World’s Highest Rail Bridge Over Chenab: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Chenab Railway Bridge in Jammu & Kashmir, now the world’s highest railway arch bridge at 359 meters above the river. (June 6, 2025)
12. Government Launched UMEED Portal for Waqf Property Governance:  Ministry of Minority Affairs launched the UMEED Central Portal—Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development—a major digital initiative to transform Waqf property administration across India. (June 6, 2025)
13. India Wins Historic Bronze at 2025 Women’s Ice Hockey Asia Cup: India’s women’s ice hockey team clinched their first-ever bronze medal at the 2025 IIHF Women’s Asia Cup held in Al Ain, UAE. The team secured third place with key wins, including a dramatic overtime victory against the host nation. (June 6, 2025)
14. Russia Patents Orbital Drone Launch System for Space Station: Russia has achieved a significant milestone in space technology by securing a landmark patent for a drone-launching system from orbital platforms. First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov announced that the patented technology will allow the upcoming Russian Orbital Station (ROS) to serve as the world’s first space-based drone platform. (June 7, 2025)
15. US President ordered a ban on the entry of citizens from 12 Countries: His latest travel ban bars nationals from entering the United States, citing concerns over terrorism, weak identity verification systems, high visa overstay rates, and poor criminal record-keeping. The measure was issued as a presidential proclamation, similar to an executive order. (June 9, 2025)
16. Puducherry Becomes India’s 19th Legislature to Go Paperless with NeVA:  Union Minister Dr L. Murugan inaugurated the National e‑Vidhan Application (NeVA) for the Puducherry Legislative Assembly, marking its transition to a fully digital, paperless legislative system. With this launch, Puducherry joins 18 other state and UT legislatures in adopting the NeVA platform—a flagship initiative under India’s Digital India programme—enabling real-time access to proceedings, live streaming, and multilingual support, all funded by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs. (June 9, 2025)
17. FIR Alone Cannot Bar Passport Renewal: In Raju Kattakayam v. State of Kerala (2025), the Kerala High Court held that mere registration of an FIR does not justify denial or renewal of a passport under the Passport Act, 1967. The Court clarified that unless judicial cognizance of the offence has been taken or criminal proceedings are pending before a court, an FIR alone cannot trigger a legal bar. The judgment reinforces the balance between administrative discretion and constitutional rights. (June 10, 2025)
18. Abuse of Criminal Law in Matrimonial Matters: The Bombay High Court in Ajay Rajendra Khare & Ors. v. State of Maharashtra sent a strong message against the misuse of matrimonial cruelty provisions under IPC (now BNS). While acknowledging the genuine plight of many women, it underscored that fairness must prevail on both sides. The ruling serves as a cautionary tale for complainants and investigating agencies alike and reinforces the principle that justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done. (June 10, 2025)
19. INS Guldar to Become India’s First Underwater Naval Museum: India is set to develop its first underwater naval museum and artificial coral reef using the decommissioned warship INS Guldar, off the coast of Sindhudurg, Maharashtra. The project, backed by the Union Ministry of Tourism with a grant of ₹46.91 crore, aims to promote eco-tourism and marine conservation. (June 10, 2025)
20. Child’s Education Must Not Suffer Due to Parent’s Conviction: Kerala High Court’s ruling in Shafeena P.H. v. State of Kerala is more than a legal directive—it is a compassionate stand that upholds the rights of a convict’s child. Emphasising the constitutional guarantee of education, the Court held that the punishment of a parent must not lead to collateral harm, especially in matters as fundamental as a child’s access to education. (June 10, 2025)
21. UN International Day for Dialogue among Civilisations: On June 10, 2025, the UN marked the first International Day for Dialogue among Civilisations, promoting intercultural understanding, respect, and unity. Established by UN resolution A/RES/78/286 on June 7, 2024—proposed by China and supported by over 80 nations—the day highlighted dialogue as vital to peace, development, and global cooperation. (June 10, 2025)
22. Thailand’s National Bird Spotted in India for the First Time: The Siamese Fireback, Thailand’s national bird, was recently spotted for the first time in Ranikhet, Uttarakhand. Known for its striking grey and crimson plumage, the sighting has excited birdwatchers and highlighted the region’s rich biodiversity. (June 10, 2025)
23. Prior Partition Not Required for Sale of Undivided Share, Rules Delhi High Court: In Raju Sardana v. Pawan Arya & Ors. (2025), the Delhi High Court held that a co-owner can legally sell their undivided share in joint property without prior partition under Section 44 of the Transfer of Property Act, 1882. The Court clarified that such a sale grants the buyer only the rights of the seller—joint enjoyment and the right to seek partition—not exclusive possession. (June 11, 2025)
24. Air India Flight AI171 Crashed After Takeoff, 260 Dead: An Air India Ahmedabad–London flight (AI171) crashed shortly after takeoff on June 12, 2025, killing 241 onboard and 19 on the ground. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner lost thrust and hit a hostel near B.J. Medical College, Ahmedabad. Only one passenger survived. (June 12, 2025)
25. India Ranks 131st in Global Gender Gap Report 2025: India ranks 131st out of 148 countries in the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2025, down two spots from last year. While India’s overall gender parity score slightly improved to 64.4%, major gaps remain in political empowerment and economic participation, despite modest gains in education and health. (June 13, 2025)
26. WhatsApp Chats in Court: In the case of Smt. Anjali Sharma v. Raman Upadhyay (2025), the Madhya Pradesh High Court ruled that WhatsApp chats between spouses are admissible as evidence in matrimonial disputes. The Court held that such messages can be marked as exhibits under Section 14 of the Family Courts Act, 1984, and clarified that the right to privacy under Article 21 is not absolute when weighed against the need for relevant evidence in family matters. (June 16, 2025)
27. Transgender Woman Entitled to Protection Under Section 498A: In Viswanathan Krishna Murthy v. State of Andhra Pradesh (2025), the Andhra Pradesh High Court affirmed that a transgender woman in a heterosexual marriage is entitled to protection under Section 498A IPC (now Section 84 BNS). (June 16, 2025)
28. Judges Can’t Be Prosecuted for Official Acts Without Sanction: The Madhya Pradesh High Court’s decision in Kamlesh Chaturvedi v. Saksham Adhikari Dwitiya Vyavhar Nyayadheesh & Ors. (2025) affirms that judicial acts done in official capacity, absent any clear malafide or corruption, are protected, and grievances against such acts should be pursued through appellate remedies, not criminal prosecution. (June 16, 2025)
29. Administrative Fairness Upheld: The case of Dr. Subhash Thakur v. State of Himachal Pradesh & Ors. (2025) marks a significant judicial reaffirmation of procedural fairness in departmental inquiries and the standards required for imposing penalties on government servants. The Himachal Pradesh High Court set aside the disciplinary action against Dr. Thakur, citing inconclusive findings in the inquiry and the absence of legally acceptable evidence. (June 17, 2025)
30. Kerala High Court Affirms Lifelong Duty of Co-Parenting Post-Divorce: In Navin Scariah v. Priya Abraham (2025), the Kerala High Court held that divorce ends a marriage but not the lifelong responsibilities of parenthood. Addressing a dispute involving a specially-abled child, the Court emphasised that custody and visitation issues must centre on the child’s well-being, not parental conflict. It permitted the father to participate in therapy and development sessions while directing both parents to cooperate respectfully. (June 17, 2025)
31. Madras High Court Rules Husband’s Consent Not Needed for Wife’s Passport: In J. Revathy v. Union of India (2025), the Madras High Court held that a married woman does not require her husband’s permission or signature to apply for a passport, reaffirming her independent legal identity. Justice N. Anand Venkatesh criticised the insistence on spousal approval as patriarchal and unconstitutional, asserting that such practices violate Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution. (June 18, 2025)
32. Parents Not Bound to Shelter Son and Daughter-in-Law: In Chandiram Anandram Hemnani v. Senior Citizens Appellate Tribunal & Ors. (2025), the Bombay High Court affirmed that senior citizens are not legally obligated to accommodate their son and daughter-in-law in their self-acquired home if it compromises their peace or dignity. (June 18, 2025)
33. Working Wife Still Entitled to Maintenance If Income is Insufficient: In Shachindra Kamala Prasad Shukla v. Priya Shachindra Shukla (2025), the Bombay High Court reaffirmed that a wife’s employment does not automatically bar her from receiving maintenance under Section 24 of the Hindu Marriage Act. Despite earning a modest salary, the Court found the wife’s income insufficient to maintain a lifestyle comparable to that of her matrimonial home. (June 18, 2025)
34. India–France Joint Military Exercise SHAKTI 2025 Concluded in France: The India–France Joint Military Exercise SHAKTI-VIII concluded at Camp Larzac, France. The drill involved Indian Army troops from J&K Rifles and French Foreign Legion units, focusing on counter-terrorism, urban warfare, and joint tactical operations, strengthening bilateral defence cooperation and interoperability. (18th June 2025)
35. DU Launches JAIHIND Scheme to Empower Tribal Students: Delhi University has launched the JAIHIND (Janajati Immersive Holistic Intervention for Novel Development) scheme for 25 meritorious students (13 boys, 12 girls) from the Tangkhul Naga tribe in Manipur’s Ukhrul district. (18th June 2025)
36. Maternity Leave Counts Towards Bond Service, Rules Madras High Court: In Dr. E. Krithikaa v. State of Tamil Nadu & Ors. (2025), the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court held that maternity leave must be counted towards the fulfillment of service bonds. Decided on 19 June 2025, the judgment affirmed that maternity leave is a legal right, not a concession, and must be respected in line with constitutional guarantees of equality and dignity. (June 19, 2025)
37. Slum Rehabilitation in Mumbai’s Congested Landscape: The Bombay High Court’s judgment in NAGAR v. State of Maharashtra reinforces that inclusive housing and environmental sustainability must go hand in hand. Instead of pushing slum dwellers to the city’s outskirts, the State is duty-bound to explore viable, eco-conscious solutions that protect both the rights of marginalised communities and the urban population’s need for accessible green spaces. (June 19, 2025)
38. Bombay High Court Allowed Abortion at 25 Weeks Based on Mental Trauma and Autonomy: In ABC v. State of Maharashtra (2025), the Bombay High Court permitted termination of a 25-week pregnancy, holding that mental anguish, social stigma, and personal distress constitute valid grounds under Article 21 of the Constitution—even without fetal abnormalities. (June 19, 2025)
39. Workplace Stress No Justification for Murder, Rules Chhattisgarh High Court: In Sant Kumar v. State of Chhattisgarh (2025), the Chhattisgarh High Court upheld the conviction of a CRPF constable who fatally shot four colleagues and injured another after alleged denial of leave and workplace harassment. Rejecting the plea for leniency under Exception 4 to Section 300 IPC, the Court held that the killings were premeditated and carried out in a cruel manner using two service rifles. The judgment stressed that workplace stress, however real, cannot justify such extreme violence—especially from trained armed personnel entrusted with public safety. (June 19, 2025)
40. Pension for Disabled Dependents is a Right, Not Charity: In Principal Accountant General v. A.V. Jerald (2025), the Madras High Court firmly held that pension benefits for mentally or physically challenged dependents of government employees are not acts of state benevolence but enforceable legal rights. The judgment reaffirms that such dependents are entitled to continued financial support, recognising pension as a vital safeguard for their dignity and livelihood. (June 19, 2025)
41. Karnataka High Court Mandates Display of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s Portrait in All Courtrooms: In a historic step, the Karnataka High Court has ordered the mandatory display of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s portrait in all courtrooms across the state, including the High Court and subordinate courts. The directive, based on a Full Court resolution and government requests, honours Ambedkar’s legacy as the chief architect of the Constitution and symbolises the judiciary’s commitment to justice, equality, and constitutional values. (June 19, 2025)
42. FASTag Annual Pass for Private Vehicles: The Government will roll out a ₹3,000 FASTag Annual Pass from August 15, 2025, for non-commercial private vehicles. It offers up to 200 toll-free trips on national highways or is valid for one year, aiming to reduce toll costs and congestion. Activation will be available via the Rajmarg Yatra app and NHAI platforms. (June 19, 2025)
43. UPSC Launches PRATIBHA Setu for Non-Selected Meritorious Candidates: The UPSC has launched PRATIBHA Setu, a platform to connect meritorious candidates who cleared all exam stages but missed the final merit list with government and private employers. Over 10,000 aspirants from exams like Civil Services and Engineering Services have enrolled, offering them a second career opportunity. (June 20, 2025)
44. Tripura Achieves Full Functional Literacy Under ULLAS Scheme: Tripura became the third state in India—after Mizoram and Goa—to achieve full functional literacy under the ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram. The milestone was celebrated in the presence of Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha, education officials, and community stakeholders. (June 23, 2025)
45. Allahabad HC Flags Gendered Impact of Live-In Relationship Breakdowns: In Shane Alam v. State of U.P. & Ors. (2025), the Allahabad High Court highlighted the unequal impact of live-in relationship breakdowns on women. While such relationships are legally recognised, their dissolution often leads to betrayal and abandonment, raising serious concerns about the protection of women’s dignity. (June 24, 2025)
46. Specific Performance Granted Despite Unregistered Sale Agreement: The Kerala High Court in Shaju v. Victory Granite Bricks Pvt. Ltd. (2025) reaffirmed that registration is not mandatory to seek specific performance of a sale agreement, so long as the proviso to Section 49 of the Registration Act, 1908 remains intact in that jurisdiction. (June 25, 2025)
47. India’s Youngest Astronaut Candidate for 2029 Space Mission: At just 23 years old, Jahnavi Dangeti from Palakollu, Andhra Pradesh, has become India’s youngest astronaut candidate, selected by U.S.-based Titan Space Industries for a low-Earth orbital mission scheduled in 2029.  (June 25, 2025)
48. Amit Shah Releases The Emergency Diaries on Samvidhan Hatya Diwas: Union Home Minister Amit Shah released the book The Emergency Diaries – Years That Forged a Leader in New Delhi, marking the 50th anniversary of the Emergency (observed as Samvidhan Hatya Diwas). (June 25, 2025)
49. Banks Cannot Deny Account for Lack of Aadhaar: In Microfibers Pvt. Ltd. v. Yes Bank Ltd. (2025), the Bombay High Court held that refusing to open a bank account solely due to the absence of an Aadhaar card is illegal. The Court emphasised that such a practice violates constitutional rights to privacy, dignity, and equality, and banks must comply with Supreme Court rulings and RBI guidelines. (June 26, 2025)
50. Post Offices to Accept UPI Payments from August 2025: Starting August 2025, all post offices in India will accept UPI payments at counters using dynamic QR codes, following a successful pilot in Karnataka. The move aims to modernise postal services and boost digital inclusion. (June 27, 2025)
51. Smriti Mandhana Creates History with Century in All Formats: Smriti Mandhana became the first Indian woman cricketer to score international centuries in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is, after her unbeaten 112 against England in a T20 match, marking a historic milestone in Indian women’s cricket. (June 28, 2025)
52. Saying “I Love You” Isn’t Always a Crime, Rules Bombay High Court: In Ravindra Narete v. State of Maharashtra, the Bombay High Court held that not every uncomfortable or inappropriate interaction amounts to a criminal offence under stringent provisions like the POCSO Act or IPC. The Court clarified that “sexual intent” must be clearly established to constitute offences like sexual harassment or assault. A single utterance of “I love you,” without any sexually explicit conduct or repeated pursuit, does not meet the legal threshold. (June 30, 2025)