Today in History (July 20th, 1969)
On July 20, 1969, NASA’s Apollo 11 mission made history when the Lunar Module, Eagle, landed on the Moon. Astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first humans to walk on the lunar surface, while Michael Collins orbited above in the Command Module, Columbia. Armstrong’s words, “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind,” were broadcast worldwide, marking a significant achievement in space exploration.
Summary of Today’s News
SC notices to Centre, WB govt. on ‘blanket’ immunity of Governor
The Supreme Court has sought responses from the Union Government and West Bengal regarding a plea challenging Governor C.V. Ananda Bose’s constitutional immunity from legal proceedings under Article 361. The petitioner, represented by Shyam Divan, disputes the Governor’s claim of blanket immunity in a molestation complaint and requests an investigation. The court, led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, has issued a notice and asked for the Attorney General’s assistance, while considering guidelines on the immunity’s scope.
DMK leader moves Madras High Court challenging 3 new laws
DMK organizing secretary R.S. Bharathi filed three PILs in the Madras High Court challenging the constitutionality of new laws replacing the Cr.P.C., IPC, and IEA, citing concerns over their Hindi and Sanskrit names. Justices S.S. Sundar and N. Senthilkumar issued notices to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs and the State government. Justice Sundar questioned the need for name changes and emphasized that law amendments should follow Law Commission recommendations and include Bar association feedback.
HC stays Khan’s move for V-C selection panel.
The Kerala High Court has stayed for a month the Governor’s notification to form search-cum-selection committees for appointing Vice-Chancellors at three universities. Petitioners argued that the Governor lacked authority under University Grants Commission regulations and the University Act, which they believe only grant this power to the State government. They contended that the Chancellor, being a legislative creation, can only exercise powers explicitly provided by legislation under Articles 162 and 246 of the Constitution of India.
SC to hear plea to probe ‘quid pro quo’ via electoral bonds.
Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud announced that a petition for a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe corruption and quid pro quo related to electoral bonds will be heard on July 22. Filed by Common Cause and the Centre for Public Interest Litigation, the petition alleges that major investigative agencies have become complicit in corruption. It claims that firms under investigation have donated heavily to the ruling party, influencing probe outcomes, and calls for a thorough investigation involving key agencies.
