Court Orders Grant Release for Vocational Training, Emphasizes Fair Trials, Swift Prosecutions

Khatri and Ors. Versus State of Bihar and Ors.

Khatri and Ors. Versus State of Bihar and Ors. - TMI Issues:
1. Disbursement of grant money to a petitioner who completed vocational training.
2. Monitoring the progress of cases pending in court to ensure speedy prosecution without prejudicing fair trial.

Analysis:

Issue 1: Disbursement of grant money to a petitioner who completed vocational training
The judgment addresses the application made by the advocate for the petitioners regarding the disbursement of a grant amount of Rs. 15,000 to a petitioner, Pawan Kumar, who completed vocational training. Pawan Kumar received training in soap making, candle making, orientation and mobility, and chalk making at the National Institute for Visually Handicapped, Dehra Dun. The court directed Pawan Kumar to file an affidavit within three weeks, committing to use the grant money for establishing himself in a business or vocation related to his training. Upon submission of the affidavit, the court ordered the release of the grant amount along with interest. Additionally, Pawan Kumar was required to provide a statement of account within six months, detailing the utilization of the grant for his rehabilitation through business or vocation setup.

Issue 2: Monitoring the progress of cases pending in court
The judgment also discusses the submission made by the advocate representing the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) regarding the progress of cases pending in the court of a Special Judicial Magistrate in Patna. The court had ordered the submission of a chart displaying the progress of cases to ensure the swift prosecution of cases based on CBI investigations. The court expressed concern over delays in prosecutions in Bihar and emphasized the importance of conducting trials promptly in the public interest. The court clarified that its intervention aimed at expediting trials did not intend to influence trial outcomes or prejudice the fair trial rights of the accused. The court rejected requests for disclosure of CBI investigation reports and for expediting hearings on compensation matters related to blinded prisoners to avoid any potential impact on the fair trial process. The court emphasized the need for fair and speedy trials conducted in accordance with the law, underscoring the importance of upholding the rights of the accused while ensuring efficient judicial processes.