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of <h1>Prompt trials upheld in criminal cases, Magistrate instructed to expedite proceedings</h1> <h3>Sanjay Gandhi Versus Union of India (UOI) and Ors.</h3> Sanjay Gandhi Versus Union of India (UOI) and Ors. - AIR 1978 SC 514 Issues:1. Denial of opportunity for the petitioner to examine police records in a criminal trial.2. Concerns regarding the length of litigation and the need for prompt trials in criminal cases.3. Interpretation of the Magistrate's role in committing cases for trial before the Court of Sessions.Analysis:1. The judgment emphasizes the importance of prompt trials in criminal cases, stating that no party has a vested right in slow-motion justice. The Court expresses concern over judicial delays that prolong litigation unnecessarily. In a specific case, a petitioner seeks modification of a time schedule set for committal proceedings, citing difficulties in examining voluminous police records. The Court rejects the petitioner's contention, noting that the Magistrate has already granted adjournments and opportunities for inspection. It highlights that not all records may be relevant for the defense, and excessive focus on irrelevant material is deemed unnecessary. The Court dismisses the petition but directs the Magistrate to commence the hearing promptly and examine key witnesses without further delay.2. The judgment underscores the significance of expeditious legal proceedings in criminal trials to uphold the principles of social justice. It references a previous case where a reasonable time schedule was set for committal proceedings with the consent of the parties involved. The Court stresses that a fair trial should not be delayed unnecessarily, as it can lead to exasperation among the parties. The Court acknowledges the seriousness of the offense in question and instructs the Magistrate to expedite the committal proceedings without undue procrastination. It allows a brief extension for the Magistrate to complete the necessary steps but emphasizes the importance of swift resolution in the case.3. The judgment clarifies the Magistrate's role in committing cases for trial before the Court of Sessions. It explains that if the police report discloses an offense triable solely by the Court of Session, the Magistrate is obligated to commit the case accordingly. The Court rejects the argument that truncating the Magistrate's jurisdiction would deny the accused an opportunity to prove innocence, noting that the Sessions Court can discharge the accused if necessary. It highlights the provisions under Section 227 of the Criminal Procedure Code, which allow for the discharge of the accused if unsupported allegations are made. The judgment reaffirms the Magistrate's duty to ensure a fair and expeditious trial process while upholding the principles of justice and procedural fairness.
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