Supreme Court declares speedy trial a right for victims as well as defendants
The Supreme Court ruled that the constitutional guarantee of a speedy trial under Article 21 applies not only to the accused but also to victims of crime.
In a recent judgment, the Supreme Court emphasized that excessive delays in criminal proceedings can harm society at large. The bench held that Article 21's speedy-trial provision is a valuable entitlement for victims, ensuring timely justice. This interpretation expands the scope of the right beyond the traditional focus on the accused.
Why it matters
It broadens constitutional protections, giving crime victims a clearer entitlement to timely justice.
In this story
speedy trialvictim rightsArticle 21Supreme Courtcriminal justicetrial delaysocietal impact
