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Issues:
1. Delay in trials and administration of justice in the State of Bihar. 2. Fundamental right to speedy trial. 3. Need for additional courts and judges in Bihar. 4. Release on bail for under-trial prisoners. Analysis: Issue 1: Delay in trials and administration of justice in the State of Bihar The Supreme Court addressed the issue of significant delays in trials and the administration of justice in Bihar. The Court highlighted the distressing situation where a large number of prisoners were languishing in jail without their trials commencing. The Court directed the sessions courts to expedite the trials of prisoners whose cases had been pending for an extended period, ensuring completion within six months. The Court emphasized the importance of providing legal aid to unrepresented prisoners and instructed the State to fund their legal representation. Issue 2: Fundamental right to speedy trial Building on a previous judgment, the Court reiterated that a speedy trial is a fundamental right implicit in the guarantee of life and personal liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution. The Court emphasized that any accused denied this right could approach the Court for enforcement. The Court sought information from the High Court regarding the number of judges in each district, pending cases, disposal norms, and the need for additional courts to ensure timely trials. Issue 3: Need for additional courts and judges in Bihar The Court requested the High Court to provide details on the number of judges in each district, pending cases, disposal norms, and the need for additional courts. The High Court was directed to communicate with the State Government to establish additional courts if required, ensuring timely disposal of cases and appointment of judges. The Court stressed the importance of taking necessary steps before the next hearing to address the backlog of cases. Issue 4: Release on bail for under-trial prisoners The Court directed the Magistrates to consider releasing under-trial prisoners on bail, especially those awaiting commitment since before December 31, 1976. Magistrates were instructed to assess eligibility for bail based on principles laid down by the Court. The Court emphasized the need for strict adherence to the directions provided in previous judgments related to the release of under-trial prisoners on bail, ensuring that the principles are followed by Magistrates and Sessions Judges in Bihar. In conclusion, the Supreme Court's judgment focused on addressing the delays in trials and administration of justice in Bihar, emphasizing the fundamental right to a speedy trial, the need for additional courts and judges, and the release on bail for under-trial prisoners to alleviate the burden on the justice system. The Court's directives aimed to expedite trials, provide legal aid, and ensure the timely release of eligible under-trial prisoners on bail.
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