Today, On 6th March, The Supreme Court expressed disapproval of prolonged delays in hearing cases concerning personal liberty. The bench emphasized the need for swift justice, stating that long adjournments in such matters are unacceptable. The court urged lower courts to prioritize cases involving individual freedoms. The observation highlights the judiciary’s commitment to protecting constitutional rights without unnecessary delays.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court remarked that courts should not delay matters concerning personal liberty for extended periods.
A bench comprising Justices B.R. Gavai and Augustine George Masih made this observation after learning that the Punjab and Haryana High Court scheduled a hearing for a plea for temporary bail on medical grounds two months later.
The petitioner’s lawyer explained that he approached the high court for temporary bail because his client’s two-year-old daughter required urgent surgery. He pointed out that the high court had set the hearing for April 22, following an order issued on February 21.
Allowing the petitioner to request an earlier hearing from the high court, the bench stated,
“In matters of liberty, courts should not postpone issues for such long durations,”
They urged the high court to expedite the process, especially concerning the temporary bail related to the medical needs of the petitioner’s daughter.
The petitioner’s counsel mentioned that he had previously filed an application in the high court to expedite his regular bail hearing, but it was dismissed.
Justice Gavai inquired,
“Now, with this observation, do you think the high court will reject it?”
The bench noted that if the high court issues a notice on the plea, the respondent might request additional time to respond, potentially delaying the matter further.
They emphasized that the high court could address the issue more swiftly.
Justice Gavai remarked,
“We expect the high courts to at least give some weight to our request,”
The counsel further explained that the petitioner had sought interim bail before the high court, but the matter was scheduled for hearing alongside the main petition in April
The Supreme Court of India has always protected personal liberty as a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution, which gives every person the right to life and freedom. However, many people who are unfairly jailed or waiting for bail suffer because lower courts take too long to hear their cases due to delays and legal procedures.