NEW DELHI, May 11 (KNS): The Supreme Court on Monday called for a coordinated mechanism between High Courts, investigating agencies, and state governments to ensure expeditious disposal of bail and anticipatory bail applications, observing that delays in hearing such pleas directly impact the fundamental right to personal liberty.
A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi suggested that bail matters be listed on a weekly or fortnightly basis, and proposed an automatic software-based listing system to ensure cases not taken up are relisted within two weeks.
The top court directed that fresh bail pleas should ordinarily be listed within a week of filing, and status reports must be submitted before the first hearing to avoid unnecessary delays. It also recommended serving advance copies of bail applications on the offices of the Advocate General or designated state agencies.
Expressing concern over the huge pendency of bail applications in High Courts, particularly Allahabad and Patna, the bench advised them to evolve effective mechanisms for priority listing and speedy disposal.
The Supreme Court further observed that casual adjournments sought by Union or state governments in bail matters should be discouraged, and urged High Courts to fix an outer timeline for disposal of such cases.
Clarifying that its observations were not intended as criticism, the apex court said the measures aim to strengthen systemic efficiency and safeguard the rights of both undertrial prisoners and victims. (KNS)
