Supreme Court Criticizes Maharashtra Government for Delays in Criminal Proceedings

Supreme Court's Stern Warning to Maharashtra Government

The Supreme Court has taken a strong stance against the Maharashtra government for its failure to expedite criminal case hearings and for merely opposing bail petitions. The court warned that it would expose the government's lax approach to the public.

A bench comprising Justices Ahsanuddin Amanullah and Shil Nagoo was hearing a bail application from a foreign national. The bench noted that numerous cases arise daily from Maharashtra where the government vehemently opposes bail but fails to take substantial steps to accelerate trial proceedings. According to the bench, a thorough examination of such cases often reveals weak evidence.

During the hearing, an accused in a kidnapping and murder case informed the court that he has been incarcerated for the past four years. His case had been listed in the lower court 86 times, yet he was presented only 33 times. The Supreme Court deemed the failure to present the accused in a timely manner as a serious oversight by the Maharashtra government.

Highlighting the accused's fundamental right to a speedy trial, the bench expressed deep concern. It pointed out that over the lengthy four-year period, only two out of 34 witnesses had been examined, which is quite alarming. The court clarified that when the state government strongly opposes bail, it also bears the responsibility to ensure the smooth progression of trials, a duty it has completely failed to fulfill.

The Maharashtra government's lawyer assured the court that all accused individuals are now being presented on every hearing date. In response, the court instructed the states to formulate a special policy to expedite the hearing process. The bench mandated that at least four witness statements be recorded each week and presented to the trial court. The court cautioned that if similar issues arise in the future, even stricter directives would be issued.