Law students challenge Jan 22 public holiday; HC to hear plea today

Law students challenge Maharashtra government’s public holiday for Ram temple consecration, citing violation of secular principles laid down under the Constitution of India. They argue that the government identifying with a particular religion is an abuse of power and would destroy the secular fabric of India. They sought an urgent hearing on Sunday and the HC set up a special bench headed by Justice Girish Kulkarni to hear them at 10.30 pm on Sunday, Jan 21.