SC to Lower Courts: Complete trial in criminal cases involving law makers within one year

March 14, 2014

In a bid to expedite proceedings against sitting MPs and MLAs in criminal cases, the Supreme Court sets a deadline for lower courts to complete trial in cases involving lawmakers within a year of framing of charges.

The apex court stated that all such proceedings involving lawmakers must be conducted on a day-to-day basis in order to expedite the trial.
As the trial is kept pending for years, lawmakers continue to enjoy membership of the legislative body despite being charged in a heinous offence.
Justice R M Lodha bench stated that the trial courts will have to give explanation to the Chief Justice of the respective high court if the trial is not completed within a year.
Though, the period can be extended by the Chief Justice of the high court, if he is satisfied with the reason given by trial judge for not completing the trial within this period.

Note: The court passed the ruling on a PIL filed by an NGO Public Interest Foundation, seeking its direction for expeditious trial in cases involving lawmakers.

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