Supreme Court rebukes Maharashtra government in bail hearing
The Supreme Court on Thursday strongly criticized the Maharashtra government for opposing the bail plea of a foreign national arrested in a kidnapping and murder case. The bench, comprising Justices A.M. Khanwilkar and B.R. Gavai, warned that it would expose the state's conduct in public if it continued to delay the proceedings.
The accused, whose identity has not been disclosed, has been in judicial custody for four years. His counsel argued that the trial court had listed the case on 86 occasions without making significant progress, violating the constitutional right to a speedy trial under Article 21.
Four years in jail without trial progress
The foreign national was arrested in connection with a kidnapping and murder case, but the trial has been repeatedly adjourned. The Supreme Court noted that the accused has already spent a considerable period in custody, and further detention without trial would be unjust.
“We will expose you in public if you continue this attitude,” the bench told the Maharashtra government’s counsel, expressing displeasure over the state’s opposition to bail. The court emphasized that the right to a speedy trial is fundamental and cannot be ignored.
Court warns of consequences for delay
The Supreme Court directed the Maharashtra government to file a response within two weeks, warning that it would consider granting bail if the state fails to justify the delay. The bench also asked the trial court to expedite the proceedings and complete the trial within six months.
The case highlights the issue of prolonged pretrial detention in India, particularly for foreign nationals who may face additional challenges in accessing legal remedies. According to the National Crime Records Bureau, over 75% of undertrial prisoners in India are in jail for less than a year, but cases like this underscore the systemic delays in the justice system.
