SC issues notice seeking explanation for delay in completing time bound murder trial

The Supreme Court took note of negligence on part of the lower court judge for not abiding order of the apex court passed in 2016 to wind up the trial in a murder case within six months. 

However, about two years later, Special Judge (SC/ST Act) of Deoria, Uttar Pradesh, seek for extra time from the Supreme Court to wind up the trial of the case.  It was noted that the trial court had the liberty to pass orders if there were issues regarding the conduct of the prosecution or that of the accused in influencing witnesses. 

As per information from the apex court registry, the bench noticed that the dates for hearing in the murder case as given by the judicial officer were "not correct”. In addition, the bench observed that from 29 January 2019, seven adjournments were granted by the Presiding officer, out of all, three were granted to the accused.

The apex court has issued a notice to the Registrar General of Allahabad High Court and the Special Judge to justify the reason to delay.

“This would prima facie show serious lack of concern on the part of the Presiding Officer to adhere to the time-bound schedule for conclusion of the case that this Court had ordered.”

The Court also made scornful remarks on the conduct of the trial judge, and the matter has been further listed after four weeks.