The Supreme Court issued directions for speedy disposal of pending bail applications nationwide, stressing protection of undertrial prisoners’ rights and personal liberty. A Bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant urged High Courts and investigating agencies to coordinate and avoid unnecessary delays.
The Supreme Court expressed strong displeasure over the prolonged pendency of bail and anticipatory bail applications in several High Courts, calling it a serious threat to personal liberty. The Court warned that it may issue mandatory guidelines if High Court Chief Justices fail to ensure timely hearings in bail matters.
The Supreme Court has raised serious concern over the rising backlog of gangster and terror-linked cases in Delhi, urging urgent reforms and special courts for speedy trials. The Bench stressed that trials must finish within six months and said “the question of granting bail” should not arise if proceedings move on time.
The Karnataka government, led by Siddaramaiah, has enacted a groundbreaking law to expedite the resolution of civil cases within 24 months. The Code of Civil Procedure (Karnataka Amendment) Bill, 2024 mandates mediation before hearings, aiming to reduce litigation and enhance judicial efficiency. This reform addresses the backlog of 10 lakh cases, promoting timely justice.
Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud urges citizens with pending cases before the Supreme Court to participate in a special Lok Adalat from July 29 to August 3, 2024, as part of the court’s 75th anniversary commemorations. The initiative aims to resolve disputes amicably and hassle-free, emphasizing the informal and technology-driven nature of the process.