Procedural Defect in Informing Arrest Grounds Won’t Lead to Bail If No Prejudice Caused to Accused: Supreme Court

Posted inArrest & Related MattersNo Comments
The Supreme Court, in State of Rajasthan v. Jhabra Ram [2026 INSC 1169] has held that in the absence of demonstrable prejudice or denial of an opportunity to defend, an alleged procedural defect in the mode of service cannot ipso facto invalidate detention or entitle an accused to regular bail, more so in cases involving grave allegations of espionage affecting national security and sovereign integrity.

Section 17A PC Act Does Not Apply to Bribe Demand as It Is Unconnected to Official Duty: Supreme Court

Posted inCorruption Cases and Related MattersNo Comments
The Supreme Court, in Tejaram v. State of Rajasthan (2026 INSC 1147), has held that Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 does not apply where a public servant is accused of demanding illegal gratification, as the demand of bribe was “a pure criminal act unconnected to discharge of the official functions or duties”, and so fell outside the protection of Section 17A.

Limited Property of a Female Hindu Becomes Absolute Ownership Upon the Commencement of the Hindu Succession Act, 1956”

Posted inProperty & Succession
In Sultan Singh (Dead) through LRs and Others v. The Financial Commissioner, Government of NCT of Delhi [2026 INSC 1107], the Supreme Court has held that a widow’s pre-existing limited interest or ownership right is transformed into an absolute right under Section 14(1) of the Hindu Succession Act, 1956, if the property does not come under the exception described in Section 14(2) of the Act.

Cheque Dishonour Notice Sent to Correct Address Is Validly Served Even When Received by Family Member: Supreme Court

Posted inNegotiable Instruments Act
In Sainaba v. State of Kerala & Anr [2026 INSC 1069], the Supreme Court has held that a statutory notice under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, sent by registered post to the drawer’s correct residential address constitutes valid service even when the article is received and acknowledged by a family member. Personal receipt or signature of the drawer is not indispensable where the statutory presumption of service remains unrebutted.