The Allahabad High Court sharply criticised state authorities for their persistent failure to act promptly on a plea seeking medical termination of pregnancy for a minor rape survivor with mental disability. The Court highlighted delays that adversely affected the victim’s access to timely medical care.
The Supreme Court held that loss of case records cannot justify keeping a criminal investigation pending indefinitely, expressing concern over a nearly two-decade delay. Setting aside the Gujarat High Court’s order, it directed Gujarat Police to complete the investigation within six weeks to protect the right to a speedy trial.
The Madras High Court stressed that election petitions must be decided within a reasonable time, warning that prolonged delays undermine electoral accountability and democratic principles. Criticising the six-year pendency of the Radhapuram election appeal, the Court described the situation as a “grave mockery of justice.”
A Delhi court resolved a 17-year-old commercial dispute involving J&K Bank, emphasizing the negative impact of delayed justice on business confidence and the economy. District Judge Monika Saroha expressed concern over the lengthy litigation process and urged for quicker resolutions to enhance stability and promote economic growth.
Justice B.R. Gavai highlighted the critical role of judicial ethics and integrity at a conference in Gujarat, stressing that a judge’s conduct affects public trust. He warned that resigning to contest elections could harm perceptions of impartiality and emphasized the judiciary’s independence from other branches to maintain credibility and prevent justice delays.
