2. Supreme Court stays Madras High Court order on return of Subash Chandra Kapoor to Germany
The Supreme Court on October 27, 2026 stayed the Madras High Court's September 8 order directing the Centre to take custody of Subash Chandra Kapoor from Tiruchirappalli Central Prison and return him to Germany. A bench of Justices BV Nagarathna and R Mahadevan halted implementation of the High Court judgment, which had allowed Kapoor's habeas corpus petition. Kapoor, a US citizen, was extradited from Germany to India on July 13, 2012, in an idol theft case registered at Udayarpalayam Police Station in Tamil Nadu. He was convicted on November 1, 2022, by the Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate, Kumbakonam, and sentenced to 10 years' imprisonment.
Why it matters for exams: This case tests the writ jurisdiction of the Supreme Court and High Courts, the habeas corpus remedy, and extradition of fugitives, which fall under Indian Polity and international cooperation in criminal matters.
Source: thenewsmill.com
3. SC seeks Centre's response to DNPA challenge on DPDP Act's application to journalism
The Supreme Court has sought the Union government's response to a petition filed by the Digital News Publishers Association (DNPA) challenging the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 and the Digital Personal Data Protection Rules, 2025. The DNPA argues that the law lacks a specific exemption for journalistic activities, which could affect investigative reporting, access to information and the protection of confidential sources. The matter has been listed for further hearing on November 17, 2026. The court has not ruled the law unconstitutional.
Why it matters for exams: This matter tests knowledge of data protection legislation and press freedom under Article 19(1)(a), along with the role of the Supreme Court in seeking government responses on constitutional challenges.
Source: nationpathindia.com
4. SC rules no UAPA bar on bail for foreign nationals; illegal entry must be proved
The Supreme Court held on October 27, 2026 that the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) does not bar granting bail to a foreign national. The bench said mere foreign nationality is not enough to deny bail under the Act. Illegal entry into India must be proved before bail can be denied on that ground.
Why it matters for exams: This ruling is important for Indian Polity topics on the judiciary and fundamental rights, and for the UAPA and bail provisions under internal security and criminal law.
Source: livelaw.in
5. Railways extends ₹10 lakh optional travel insurance to counter-booked reserved tickets
Indian Railways has extended its optional travel insurance to eligible reserved tickets bought at railway reservation counters from October 27, 2026. The cover offers benefits of up to ₹10 lakh for specified railway accidents and incidents, subject to policy terms. The premium is 45 paise per passenger, and both the ticket and the insurance must be paid digitally, with a valid mobile number required for policy communication. The extension follows a Supreme Court direction, and the Railway Board issued the implementing instructions.
Why it matters for exams: Railway passenger welfare schemes, insurance provisions and the role of the Supreme Court in policy directions are common topics in Polity and Current Affairs papers.
Source: nationpathindia.com