Legal Bites May 2025: Monthly Legal Updates

Welcome to the Legal Bites Monthly Legal Updates for May 2025! This edition compiles and presents the 50 most significant legal, national, and international developments from May 2025. From landmark Supreme Court judgments and major government schemes to diplomatic milestones, sports achievements, and environmental initiatives, this roundup offers a concise yet comprehensive overview.

Whether you’re a law student, practitioner, policymaker, or simply a keen observer of current affairs, stay informed with insights into how these events are shaping India’s legal landscape and global standing. Scroll down to read more!

May 2025: Key Legal, National, and International Highlights

1. PM Modi Opens WAVES 2025 in Mumbai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated WAVES 2025, India’s first global media and entertainment summit, in Mumbai on May 1. The event drew participation from over 90 countries and highlighted India’s creative economy with the theme “Create in India, Create for the World.” (May 01, 2025)
2. VP Dhankhar Releases UP Governor Anandiben Patel’s Autobiography: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar launched Chunautiyan Mujhe Pasand Hain, the autobiography of Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, at AKTU, Lucknow. The book highlights her journey from rural Gujarat to a life of public service, emphasising women’s empowerment and education. CM Yogi Adityanath hailed it as an inspiring guide for the youth. Proceeds from the book will support education for underprivileged children. (May 01, 2025)
3. MP Launches India’s First AI-Based Forest Alert System: Madhya Pradesh has become the first Indian state to deploy an AI-powered real-time forest alert system. Launched in April 2025 across five divisions, the system uses satellite data and machine learning to detect illegal encroachments and deforestation. Developed by IFS officer Akshay Rathore, it enables swift field response through mobile alerts, enhancing forest protection and biodiversity conservation. (May 03, 2025)
4. Government Approves Greenfield Airports in Kota and Puri: Indian government has approved new greenfield airports in Kota (Rajasthan) and Puri (Odisha) to boost regional connectivity and tourism. The Kota airport, costing ₹1,507 crore, will serve the Hadoti region, while the ₹5,631 crore Puri airport aims to enhance religious tourism near the Jagannath Temple. (May 05, 2025)
5. Cashless Treatment Scheme for Road Accident Victims: Government of India has implemented the Cashless Treatment of Road Accident Victims Scheme, 2025, effective May 5, 2025. Under this initiative, road accident victims are entitled to cashless medical treatment up to ₹1.5 lakh for a maximum of seven days from the date of the accident at any designated hospital. (May 05, 2025)
6. 22nd Bharat Telecom Expo 2025 Kicks Off in New Delhi: The 22nd Bharat Telecom Expo 2025 began at Hotel Taj Palace, New Delhi. Jointly organised by the Telecom Equipment and Services Export Promotion Council (TEPC) and the Department of Telecommunications, the two-day event focuses on showcasing India’s potential as a global leader in telecom manufacturing and innovation. (May 06, 2025)
7. India–UK Free Trade Agreement Finalised to Boost Bilateral Trade: India and the UK concluded a landmark Free Trade Agreement aimed at doubling bilateral trade to $120 billion by 2030. The deal removes tariffs on 99% of Indian exports and reduces duties on key UK products like Scotch whisky and automobiles. (May 06, 2025)
8. Termination of Civil Judge During Probation: In Kaustubh Khera v. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors. (2025), the Supreme Court clarified the scope of judicial review in such cases. It reaffirmed the High Court’s discretion to assess the suitability of probationary judicial officers under Rule 11(c) of the M.P. Judicial Service (Recruitment and Conditions of Service) Rules, 1994. (May 07, 2025)
9. Rohit Sharma Retires from Test Cricket: Rohit Sharma announced his retirement from Test cricket, ending a career that spanned 67 matches with 4,301 runs and 12 centuries. The decision comes ahead of India’s Test series in England. He had proposed a mid-series retirement, which the BCCI declined. Sharma will continue to play ODIs for India. (May 07, 2025)
10. Bhutan Unveils World’s First Crypto-Powered Tourism Payment System: Bhutan launched a national crypto tourism payment system in partnership with Binance Pay and DK Bank. Tourists can now pay for flights, visas, hotels, and local services using over 100 cryptocurrencies. The system enables real-time QR-based payments, settled in Bhutanese ngultrum, aiming to boost digital inclusion and support small businesses. (May 07, 2025)
11. Scope of Appellate Jurisdiction in Interlocutory Matters: The Supreme Court’s ruling in Mahendra Magruram Gupta & Anr. v. Rajdai Shaw & Ors.(2025) is a reaffirmation of the foundational principles of procedural fairness and appellate restraint. An appeal against an interlocutory order is not a license for the appellate court to dispose of the entire suit, especially when the suit has not gone through the rigours of a trial. (May 08, 2025)
12. Ladakh Records World’s Highest Snow Leopard Density: A new study published in PLOS ONE confirms that Ladakh hosts the world’s highest density of snow leopards, with an estimated 477 individuals—68% of India’s total. Hemis National Park alone recorded 2.07 leopards per 100 km². The study highlights successful coexistence with humans and the role of community-led conservation in preserving this iconic species. (May 10, 2025)
13. Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer Visits India Amid Diplomatic Strains: Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer undertook his inaugural official visit to India, meeting with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to discuss bilateral and regional issues. The visit aimed to address tensions arising from President Mohamed Muizzu’s pro-China stance and the “India Out” campaign. (May 10, 2025)
14. India Women Win Tri-Nation ODI Series in Sri Lanka: India Women won the Tri-Nation ODI Series in Sri Lanka on May 11, 2025, defeating the hosts by 97 runs in the final. Smriti Mandhana scored a match-winning 116, while Sneh Rana’s 4-wicket haul sealed the win. Rana was also named Player of the Series for her 15 wickets. (May 11, 2025)
15. Virat Kohli Retires from Test Cricket, Capping a Glorious 14-Year Career: Virat Kohli retired from Test cricket after 123 matches, 9,230 runs, and 30 centuries. As India’s most successful Test captain with 40 wins, his exit—soon after Rohit Sharma’s—signals a major shift in Indian cricket. Though stepping away from Tests, Kohli continues in ODIs and recently led RCB to their maiden IPL title. (May 12, 2025)
16. US and Saudi Arabia Seal $142 Billion Arms Deal: US and Saudi Arabia signed a record $142 billion arms deal during President Trump’s visit to Riyadh. The agreement includes advanced defense systems, training, and support from major US firms, and forms part of a larger $600 billion investment package aimed at boosting strategic and economic ties. (May 13, 2025)
17. Unfair Enrichment: The Supreme Court in Vijaya Bank v. Prashant B Narnaware (2025) held that early resignation doesn’t amount to unfair enrichment if the employment bond is fair, lawful, and mutually agreed upon. Far from being unfair enrichment, such clauses are a means to ensure continuity, efficiency, and accountability in the modern workforce. (May 14, 2025)
18. Notice Under Section 148 of the Income Tax Act: In Neena Singh Thakur v. Pr. Commissioner of Income Tax (2025), the Himachal Pradesh High Court reaffirmed that Section 148A is a vital safeguard, not a mere formality, and held that a notice under Section 148 must be based on a reasoned, evidence-backed order—not vague or unsubstantiated grounds. (May 14, 2025)
19. Format Compliance Crucial for Availing Caste-Based Reservation: The Supreme Court in Mohit Kumar v. State of Uttar Pradesh (2025) has reaffirmed the criticality of adhering strictly to prescribed formats for caste certificates while applying for reserved posts. The Court held that failure to submit a caste certificate in the correct State-prescribed format can lead to disqualification from availing reservation benefits, even if the applicant genuinely belongs to a backward category. (May 15, 2025)
20. Section 12A of the Commercial Courts Act, 2015: The judgment delivered by the Supreme Court in M/S Dhanbad Fuels Pvt. Ltd. v. Union of India & Anr. (2025) addresses a significant procedural issue concerning the mandatory nature of Section 12A of the Commercial Courts Act, 2015 (“the Act”). This provision mandates pre-institution mediation for commercial suits that do not contemplate urgent interim relief. (May 15, 2025)
21. Indian Army Conducts ‘Teesta Prahar’ Exercise in Strategic Siliguri Corridor: Indian Army conducted ‘Teesta Prahar’, a large-scale integrated field exercise at the Teesta Field Firing Range in North Bengal’s Siliguri Corridor. The drill involved various combat and support arms, including Infantry, Artillery, Armoured Corps, Mechanised Infantry, Para Special Forces, Army Aviation, Engineers, and Signals. (May 15, 2025)
22. False Narratives in Dowry Death Cases: The case of Virender Pal @ Vipin v. State of Haryana (2025) serves as a landmark reaffirmation of the principles underlying the offence of dowry death. The Supreme Court’s meticulous analysis highlights that false narratives—however cleverly spun—cannot shield a husband from criminal liability when evidence points to sustained cruelty and unnatural death linked to dowry demands. (May 15, 2025)
23. One Rank One Pension for Judges: In the landmark judgment In Re: Refixation of Pension Considering Service Period in District Judiciary and High Court (2025), the Supreme Court of India has upheld the constitutional principles of equality and judicial independence by extending the One Rank One Pension (OROP) principle to members of the higher judiciary. (May 19, 2025)
24. FSSAI Warns Against Use of Banned Calcium Carbide for Fruit Ripening: FSSAI has issued a strict warning to traders and food businesses against using calcium carbide for artificially ripening fruits, especially mangoes. The regulator urged full compliance with the ban during the ongoing fruit season. (May 19, 2025)
25.  3 Years’ Bar Practice Mandatory for Civil Judge Exam: The Supreme Court of India revisited critical aspects of judicial service rules in All India Judges Association v. Union of India & Ors. (2025). The Court addressed long-standing concerns over promotions, quota allocation, and eligibility norms for judicial officers. This judgment marks a significant evolution in judicial policy, especially regarding the Limited Departmental Competitive Examination (LDCE), minimum practice requirement for judicial entrants, and structured incentives for meritorious service. (May 20, 2025)
26. India Joins WHO’s Historic Pandemic Agreement to Strengthen Global Health Preparedness: India joined 123 other nations in adopting the World Health Organisation’s first-ever Pandemic Agreement at the 78th World Health Assembly. This landmark accord aims to enhance global collaboration for pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response. Key provisions include equitable access to vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics, while respecting national sovereignty over public health decisions. (May 20, 2025)
27. World Hydrogen Summit 2025 Convenes in Rotterdam: World Hydrogen Awards, multiple H2 Tech Series stages, and site visits to hydrogen projects in the Port of Rotterdam. The summit served as a platform for forging partnerships and assessing progress in the hydrogen sector. (May 20, 2025)
28. 5th Shirui Lily Festival Celebrated in Manipur: 5th State-Level Shirui Lily Festival was held from May 20 to 24 at Heritage Ground, Vangayan in Shirui Village, Ukhrul. Organised by the Manipur Tourism Department, the event marked the 75th anniversary of the state’s iconic and endangered flower, the Shirui Lily, with a grand inaugural ceremony and cultural celebrations. (May 20, 2025)
29. Mizoram Declared India’s First Fully Literate State: Mizoram was officially declared a fully literate state by Chief Minister Shri Lalduhoma during a special function in Aizawl. With this achievement, Mizoram became the first state in India to attain 100% literacy. The event was attended by key dignitaries including Union Minister Shri Jayant Chaudhary and state education officials. (May 20, 2025)
30. Chief Justice of Manipur High Court: The President of India has appointed Justice Kempaiah Somashekar, Judge of the Karnataka High Court, as the Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court. (May 20, 2025)
31. GST Demands can be Challenged: Delhi High Court judgment in Infiniti Retail Ltd. v. Union of India provides clear guidance: Taxpayers must primarily avail of the statutory appeal route under the GST law to challenge demand orders. The writ jurisdiction under Article 226 is not an alternative to appellate remedies, unless exceptional circumstances warrant interference. (May 21, 2025)
32. UK Transfers Chagos Islands Sovereignty to Mauritius in Historic Agreement: United Kingdom signed a landmark agreement transferring sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, concluding a decades-long colonial dispute. Under the treaty, the UK retains control over the strategic Diego Garcia military base through a 99-year lease, paying Mauritius £101 million annually. (May 21, 2025) 
33. International Day for Biological Diversity 2025 Observed Globally: International Day for Biological Diversity marks the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity in 1992. The day promotes awareness of biodiversity’s vital role in sustaining life. Despite alarming rates of biodiversity loss driven by human activity, the IPBES Global Assessment stresses that solutions exist—and immediate action can still make a difference (May 22, 2025)
34. Maintenance Rights of Divorced Women: Delhi High Court’s ruling in Rajeev Bhardwaj v. Dipti Bhardwaj (2025) underscores the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rights of divorced women under Section 125 CrPC (Section 144 BNSS). It emphasises that maintenance is not a charitable dispensation but a legal duty grounded in social welfare and economic justice. (May 22, 2025)
35. Delhi Government Launches ‘Paryavaran Sanrakshak’ Initiative to Empower Youth: Delhi government, in collaboration with The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), launched the ‘Paryavaran Sanrakshak’ initiative aimed at sensitising approximately 2 lakh students across 2,000 schools and colleges about climate change and sustainable practices. (May 22, 2025)
36. Inclusion of Women in the Judiciary: The Supreme Court of India, in Pinky Meena v. The High Court of Judicature for Rajasthan at Jodhpur & Anr. (2025), not only reinstated a young tribal woman judge who was discharged from service during probation, but also made a powerful case for greater gender representation in the judiciary. (May 22, 2025)
37. Gujarat’s Asiatic Lion Population Touches 891 in 2025: Gujarat is now home to 891 Asiatic lions, marking a 32% rise since 2020. As per the 16th Lion Census conducted in May 2025, the majestic big cats have expanded beyond Gir to 11 districts in Saurashtra. The count includes 196 males, 330 females, 140 sub-adults, and 225 cubs. This surge reflects the success of sustained conservation efforts and wider habitat adaptation. (May 22, 2025)
38. National Commission for Women Launches Yashoda AI to Empower Women in Digital Literacy: The National Commission for Women (NCW), in collaboration with Future Shift Labs, launched ‘Yashoda AI: Your AI SAKHI’ at Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Rohilkhand University in Bareilly. This initiative aims to enhance AI literacy among women, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas, by providing essential knowledge in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital safety. (May 22, 2025)
39. RBI Transfers Record ₹2.69 Lakh Crore Dividend to Government for FY25: In a major boost to the Centre’s finances, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved a record dividend payout of ₹2.69 lakh crore to the government for the financial year 2024–25. The decision was made during the central bank’s 616th board meeting. (May 23, 2025)
40. Neeraj Chopra Secures Second Place at Janusz Kusocinski Memorial: Neeraj Chopra secured second place at the Janusz Kusocinski Memorial in Poland with a throw of 84.14m, extending his top-two finish streak to 22 events. Julian Weber of Germany won with 86.12m, and Anderson Peters placed third at 83.24m. (May 23, 2025)
41. Maternity Leave: A Constitutional Right: The Supreme Court’s judgment in K. Umadevi v. Government of Tamil Nadu (2025) rightly elevates maternity leave to a constitutional entitlement under Article 21. It reaffirms that the right to life includes the right to reproductive health, bodily autonomy, and maternal dignity. (May 23, 2025)
42. Defective Prayer and Plaint Dismissal: The Supreme Court’s ruling in Vinod Infra Developers Ltd. v. Mahaveer Lunia & Ors. (2025) serves as a caution against judicial overreach in rejecting suits at the threshold. It reaffirms that procedural technicalities cannot override substantive justice. As long as one valid cause of action exists, a suit must proceed to trial, and litigants must be allowed to prove their case. (May 23, 2025)
43. Additional Evidence After Chargesheet: In Sameer Sandhir v. Central Bureau of Investigation (2025), the Supreme Court reaffirmed the principle of procedural flexibility in criminal law, holding that although all relevant documents should accompany the chargesheet, omissions that do not cause prejudice to the accused may be rectified with the court’s permission. (May 23, 2025)
44. Consensual Relationship Turning Sour Not Ground for Criminal Action: In a landmark judgment emphasizing the need for scrutiny of rape allegations stemming from consensual relationships, the Supreme Court of India in Amol Bhagwan Nehul v. State of Maharashtra & Anr. (2025) quashed the criminal proceedings initiated under Sections 376, 504, and 506 of the Indian Penal Code. These provisions now correspond to Sections 64, 352, and 351 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Section 377 of the IPC has since been repealed. (May 26, 2025)
45. Anil Kumble Appointed as Karnataka’s Forest and Wildlife Ambassador: Former Indian cricketer Anil Kumble has been appointed as the Forest and Wildlife Ambassador of Karnataka. Announced by Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre, Kumble accepted the role without remuneration, reflecting his deep commitment to environmental conservation. Having previously served as vice-chairperson of the Karnataka Wildlife Board, Kumble aims to raise public awareness about forest and wildlife preservation. (May 27, 2025)
46. Nagshankar Temple: Assam’s Ancient Shiva Shrine and Turtle Haven: Nagshankar Temple in Assam’s Biswanath district is a 4th-century Shiva shrine, renowned for its religious significance and turtle conservation pond housing endangered softshell species. (May 27, 2025)
47. Gulveer Singh Wins India’s First Gold at 2025 Asian Athletics Championships: Indian long-distance runner Gulveer Singh secured India’s first gold medal at the 2025 Asian Athletics Championships in Gumi, South Korea, by winning the men’s 10,000m event. He further triumphed in the men’s 5,000m, setting a new championship record. (May 27, 2025)
48. Inherent Powers of High Courts under Section 528 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita: Allahabad High Court’s decision in Shashank Gupta Alias Guddu & Ors. v. State of U.P. & Anr. (2025) represents a critical reaffirmation of the inherent powers of High Courts under Section 528 BNSS. Departing from the rigid stance of Ramlal Yadav, the court has harmonised statutory powers with evolving constitutional jurisprudence. (May 27, 2025)
49. Public Trust Doctrine in Land Allotment Case: The Supreme Court’s judgment in Kamla Nehru Memorial Trust v. UPSIDC (2025) is a landmark in asserting accountability in public resource management and contractual enforcement. By affirming that even charitable trusts are not exempt from strict compliance with conditions of allotment and that statutory bodies must act transparently, the decision fortifies constitutional and administrative governance. (May 30, 2025)
50. Serena Williams Awarded 2025 Princess of Asturias Prize for Sports: Tennis legend Serena Williams has been honoured with Spain’s 2025 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, recognising her extraordinary career and societal impact. With 73 singles titles, including 23 Grand Slams, and four Olympic gold medals, Williams is celebrated as one of the greatest athletes in history. (May 31, 2025)