The Supreme Court highlights that consistent and final decisions are crucial for a strong justice system. It seeks a larger bench to interpret Section 428 CrPC properly.
New Delhi (April 22): The Supreme Court of India has said that important qualities like consistency, certainty, predictability, and finality in court judgments are very important for a strong and fair justice system. These qualities help people trust the courts and believe in the law.
A bench of Justices Dipankar Datta and Manmohan made this observation while hearing an appeal against a decision made by the Madras High Court in September 2020.
In that decision, the High Court had reduced the sentence of a convict by considering the time he spent in jail as an undertrial (a person waiting for trial) under Section 428 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). Because of this, the convict was allowed to be released early.
ALSO READ: Delhi High Court: “Gender Neutrality Is Essential For a Fair Justice System”
The Supreme Court bench did not pass a final decision on this issue but instead asked the Chief Justice of India to think about forming a larger bench with more judges. The purpose is to properly interpret Section 428 of the CrPC and give clear guidance on how it should be applied in future cases.
The bench stressed the importance of maintaining consistency in judicial decisions.
They said,
“Consistency, certainty, predictability and finality of decisions are the hallmarks of a sound justice delivery system.”
ALSO READ: Delhi High Court: Delay in Rape Cases Prolongs Victims Suffering
The judges believe that,
the justice system should not have different rulings for the same type of legal issue, as it creates confusion and unfairness.
The Court’s decision to refer the matter to the Chief Justice shows that they want a more detailed and authoritative judgment on how undertrial periods should be adjusted in criminal sentences. This is important because it will affect many other similar cases and provide clear legal direction for courts across the country.
This case also shows how the top court is careful and responsible in interpreting the law. By seeking the opinion of a larger bench, the Supreme Court ensures that complex legal questions are answered with proper discussion and seriousness.
ALSO READ: Supreme Court Justice Surya Kant: Bar and Bench Must Work Together for Justice
The Supreme Court did not overrule the Madras High Court’s decision immediately. Instead, it took a step toward a better and unified interpretation of the law by referring the matter for further legal discussion. This action is part of the Court’s effort to maintain harmony and fairness in India’s legal system.
In conclusion, this move by the Supreme Court reflects its commitment to a legal system where decisions are not only fair but also consistent and final.
As stated by the bench,
“Consistency, certainty, predictability and finality of decisions are the hallmarks of a sound justice delivery system.”
Click Here to Read Our Reports on Fair Justice System Case
