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Showing posts from July, 2025

Janaki” and Judicial Wisdom: A Constitutional Lens on Artistic Freedom and CBFC's Role

Janaki” and Judicial Wisdom: A Constitutional Lens on Artistic Freedom and CBFC's Role By Advocate Prabal Bhandari www.prabalbhandari.com   In a moment that resonates with constitutional clarity and judicial maturity, the Kerala High Court reminded the nation this week that art is not to be shackled by arbitrary gatekeeping , especially not when the freedom of expression guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a) is at stake. The matter in question arose from a legal challenge filed by M/s Cosmos Entertainments , the production house behind the upcoming Malayalam film “ JSK: Janaki v State of Kerala ” , starring Union Minister Suresh Gopi . The controversy? The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) allegedly raised informal objections to the use of the name “Janaki” —claiming it refers to Goddess Sita and could, therefore, hurt religious sentiments. This objection, as presented by the Deputy Solicitor General of India , was purportedly based on the CBFC's interpretation of...
Navigating EPF Section 7A Proceedings: An Advocate's Guide to Compliance and Defence By Advocate Prabal Bhandari www.prabalbhandari.com   As an employer in India, navigating the complexities of labour laws is not just a regulatory obligation but a strategic imperative. Among these, the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) regulations hold significant weight. A crucial aspect often encountered by businesses, both large and small, is the proceeding initiated under Section 7A of the Employees' Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952. This section empowers the EPFO to determine the dues payable by an employer. For businesses, this can be a daunting prospect, often stemming from alleged non-compliance, under-reporting, or non-remittance of provident fund contributions. As an advocate specializing in labour and employment laws, I understand the intricacies of these proceedings and the critical steps required to protect your interests. This article ai...

Rights of Legal Heirs After a Plane Crash: A Legal Insight into the AI-171 Air India Boeing 787 Tragedy

Rights of Legal Heirs After a Plane Crash: A Legal Insight into the AI-171 Air India Boeing 787 Tragedy By Advocate Prabal Bhandari www.prabalbhandari.com The tragic crash of Air India Flight AI-171 shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad in May 2025 has devastated hundreds of families, claiming 274 innocent lives. While the investigation is ongoing, disturbing reports suggest that a software-triggered dual engine failure — allegedly caused by a known glitch in the Boeing 787 Dreamliner’s FADEC system — may have played a key role. As legal questions begin to arise, one must examine: What remedies are available to the families of the deceased? In India, the legal heirs of deceased passengers — including spouses, children, parents, or any legally recognized nominee — have the right to seek compensation for the irreparable loss they’ve suffered. This can be pursued both under Indian law and international legal frameworks, depending on the jurisdiction and facts of the case. Under th...

Maintenance Ka Kanoon: Har Baar Mard Hi Galat Nahi Hota!

Ma intenance Ka Kanoon: Har Baar Mard Hi Galat Nahi Hota! Explained by Advocate Prabal Bhandari A must-read for anyone navigating family law or fighting a maintenance case. In India, maintenance is often seen as a husband’s financial duty, especially after separation or divorce. But the reality is more nuanced—and the law, though empathetic to women, also acknowledges the rights and limitations of men . In my practice as an advocate, I’ve come across countless cases where men are forced to pay maintenance despite facing genuine hardships. So the question arises: Is a man always liable to pay maintenance? The answer is no — not always . Indian courts have clearly laid down instances where a man can be relieved of this obligation , provided he has substantial and honest reasons. Let’s break this down with clarity and support from landmark judgments. One of the key principles courts rely on is "sufficient cause" . In the case of C. Ali v. State of Kerala , the court observ...