नवीनतम
SC issues notice on plea for framework on wrongful conviction
NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: The Supreme Court has issued notice on a Public Interest Litigation seeking the creation of a comprehensive national framework for compensation and rehabilitation of individuals who suffer unjust or arbitrary imprisonment and are later discharged or acquitted.
The petition, filed by one Jawaharlal Sharma, seeks the constitution of an expert committee to draft a model scheme providing monetary and non-monetary relief to such individuals, including those subjected to prolonged pre-trial detention before being found not guilty.
A bench of Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta briefly heard arguments from Senior Advocate Gopal Shankarnarayanan, assisted by Advocate-on-Record Neha Rathi, appearing for the petitioner.
The court then issued notice to the union of India, all state governments, and union Territories, directing them to file their responses.
The petitioners have urged that the proposed committee be headed by a retired Supreme Court or High Court judge and be tasked with framing a uniform, rights-based mechanism for compensation and rehabilitation.
The plea highlights that wrongful or excessive pre-trial detention constitutes a grave violation of fundamental rights, and that acquittal alone cannot adequately remedy the profound harm suffered.
The suggested model framework includes the creation of a national fund to support victims of unjust incarceration, offering financial compensation, psychological counselling, livelihood and skill-development assistance, and structured support for reintegration into society.
The bench has directed that the matter be listed for further hearing after four weeks, following receipt of responses from the union and the states.
