Delay in Bail Decisions Affects Fundamental Rights

Delay in Bail Decisions Affects Fundamental Rights
The Supreme Court has expressed dissatisfaction over the long delays by courts in deciding on bail petitions. The Court stated that even a day's delay in such cases adversely impacts citizens' fundamental rights. A bench comprising Justice B.R. Gavai and Justice P.S. Narasimha remarked on Friday that it does not appreciate the practice of keeping bail petitions pending for years in courts.
The Supreme Court emphasized the importance of personal liberty, stating that courts should prioritize and expedite bail hearings. The Court highlighted that it does not endorse the pattern of keeping bail petitions pending for extended periods.
This observation was made during the hearing of an individual’s petition. The petitioner informed the Supreme Court that their bail application has been pending in the Allahabad High Court since August last year without any progress. The case has been repeatedly adjourned by the High Court without any effective hearing.
The Supreme Court noted that it has been informed that the High Court has scheduled the hearing for November 11. While disposing of the petition, the bench directed that the High Court should hear the matter and issue a decision at the earliest, preferably within two weeks after November 11, 2024.