LI Network
Published on: December 23, 2023 at 12:28 IST
The Delhi High Court has issued directives aimed at ensuring the prompt and effective disposal of criminal cases against Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of Legislative Assemblies (MLAs) pending in designated Courts.
Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Mini Pushkarna of the division bench instructed the Principal District and Sessions Judge of the Rouse Avenue Court to maintain a nearly equal caseload of criminal cases against MPs and MLAs at the same level.
The Court emphasized the need for expeditious handling of such cases, considering their nature and complexity, and acknowledged that some cases involve multiple accused or a significant number of witnesses. Designated Courts are urged to list these cases at least once a week, avoid unnecessary adjournments, and take all necessary measures for swift resolution.
In cases where the examination or cross-examination of a witness extends beyond a given day, the court urged daily listings until the conclusion of the witness’s evidence.
The Principal District and Sessions Judge is directed to collect monthly progress reports from designated courts and submit a consolidated report to the High Court, including a summary of work, an action plan, steps for expeditious disposal, and reasons for any delays.
Moreover, the court called for the timely disposal of revision petitions related to criminal matters before designated Sessions Courts within six months. Adequate infrastructure facilities for designated courts and the availability of technological infrastructure for efficient functioning are stressed in the court’s directives.
The Court instructed the Registrar (IT) to create an independent tab on the High Court’s website providing details on the year of filing, the number of pending cases, the stage of proceedings, and other relevant information.
Additionally, the Court directed the expeditious disposal of cases where trial stays have exceeded six months, with the Registrar General required to submit a status report on these cases.
The suo motu case was initiated by the court in 2020 to expedite the trial of cases against MPs and MLAs.
The next hearing for this matter is scheduled for February 12, 2024, as the court continues its efforts to streamline and expedite the resolution of criminal cases against lawmakers.
Case Title: COURT ON ITS OWN MOTION v UNION OF INDIA