New Chief Justice all praise for state’s judiciary

Bengaluru: Justice Abhay Shreeniwas Oka, who recently took oath as the 30th Chief Justice of Karnataka High Court, was welcomed by the Karnataka State Bar Council and Advocates' Association Bengaluru on Monday. Addressing the advocates, Justice Oka said that the judiciary in the state is among the best in the country.

Appealing to the bar, the Chief Justice sought some time till he adjusted and adapted to the new assignment. “Like how cricketers take some time to adapt themselves while playing on foreign pitches, I too would take some time to adapt myself here," Justice Oka said, seeking the cooperation of bar and bench.

He praised the city's environment, saying it has over 200 live lakes. He expressed happiness that he is moving from one heritage building, the Bombay High Court, to another, the Karnataka High Court.

Justice Oka is known to encourage junior members of the bar. Apart from appearing as an advocate in various public interest litigations related to environmental issues, Justice Oka as a judge has dealt with a variety of issues that affect the civil rights of citizens.

Palike permission must for running LPG gas station: HC

The Karnataka High Court made it clear that trade licence issued by local authorities, such as Palike, is mandatory to operate LPG gas stations. According to Schedule 353 of the KMC act, it is mandatory to get such permission to operate LPG gas stations. A gas agency had challenged before the HC a notice issued by the BBMP to stop its operation for not obtaining a trade licence. The court directed the Palike to consider the application filed by agency seeking the licence in accordance with law.