The Supreme Court today suggested a series of measures for the expeditious disposal of bail applications pending in high courts across the country. A bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi emphasised the need for a robust mechanism to ensure timely hearings of anticipatory and regular bail pleas while safeguarding the rights of victims.
The apex court suggested automatic listing of bail applications, fixing an outer timeline for their disposal and prioritising such matters in cause lists. It also recommended that bail pleas be listed weekly or fortnightly through a software-based system to avoid delays.
The court observed that the pendency of bail applications was particularly high in the Allahabad High Court and called for a definite hearing mechanism. Similar concerns were also raised regarding delays in the Patna High Court. The bench stressed that avoidable adjournments by government counsel should be discouraged and reminded courts of their duty to protect personal liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution.
The Supreme Court also underlined the importance of timely forensic science laboratory reports, especially in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) cases, and said investigating officers must ensure victims are able to participate in proceedings and avail legal representation. The observations came while hearing a petition challenging an order of the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
