Supreme Court Criticizes Casual Approach of Police in Court Matters

Supreme Court highlights lack of diligence in police procedures, emphasizing need for improved justice administration.

In a recent judgment, the Supreme Court of India expressed significant concerns over the casual approach adopted by the police in handling court matters. The case, titled "State of Uttar Pradesh v. Bhairo Singh," came under scrutiny as the Court found the police lacking in preparedness and in the provision of necessary details regarding the respondent's antecedents and the outcomes of related cases.

The bench, comprising Justices Ahsanuddin Amanullah and Nongmeikapam Kotiswar Singh, was particularly surprised at the filing of the case without complete details, which they deemed essential for a fair adjudication. The Court highlighted how the Sub-Inspector accompanying the respondent was unaware of these crucial details, pointing to a systemic casualness that could undermine the administration of justice at the grassroots level.

During the proceedings, Ms. Lubna Naaz, the advocate appointed by the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee to represent the respondent, requested additional time to gather proper instructions and assist the Court effectively. The Court granted this request, scheduling the next hearing for February 25, 2026. Meanwhile, the Court has ordered the records from the lower courts to be called for, and it directed the State to take all necessary instructions before the next hearing.

The Supreme Court also temporarily dispensed with the personal appearance of the respondent, entrusting the responsibility to the local Station House Officer (SHO) to ensure the respondent's presence when required by the Court. This decision underscores the Court's attempt to balance judicial efficiency with procedural fairness.

The judgment has raised critical questions about the efficacy and diligence of police procedures in legal matters, emphasizing the need for improved administration of justice to prevent such lapses in future cases.

Bottom Line:

Court expressed concern over the casual approach of the Police in handling court matters, highlighting the lack of preparedness and absence of relevant details in the presented case.

Statutory provision(s): Criminal Procedure Code, 1973

State of Uttar Pradesh v. Bhairo Singh, (SC) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2819501