JOHN VALLAMATTOM vs UOI

The Supreme Court examined the constitutionality of Section 118 of the Indian Succession Act, 1925, which restricts the ability of Christians to bequeath property for religious and charitable purposes. The Court found that the provision discriminates against the Christian community, violating Article 14 of the Constitution, which guarantees equality before the law. The Court held that the restrictions imposed by Section 118 are unconstitutional and thus invalidated the provision, allowing for testamentary dispositions for charitable purposes without such limitations.