The Tribune Editorial highlights a critical issue plaguing the Indian judiciary: the normalisation of delayed justice. Cinema often amplifies lived experiences, and in the case of the judiciary, it has made systemic anomalies seem familiar. The delay in delivering justice is now so routine that only the most extreme cases draw attention, without the outrage they deserve.
Shocking Examples of Delayed Justice
In Bihar, it took over 30 years to sentence an 85-year-old man to three years in jail for an attempt-to-murder case. The elderly man barely remembers the incident. In Uttar Pradesh, after a 27-year trial for criminal intimidation, a frail 80-year-old was ordered to stand in court for a day as punishment. He had faithfully attended all hearings. His confession and appeal for mercy finally led to a verdict. In Mumbai, an 80-year-old is set to go to prison for a crime committed 13 years ago.
Staggering Case Backlog
By 2025, the National Judicial Data Grid reported over 5.1 crore pending cases, with nearly 4.5 crore in subordinate courts. A speedy trial is a fundamental right, but it remains a distant dream for most undertrials. They account for more than 70% of the prison population. Many have spent more years in jail than the punishment prescribed for their alleged crimes.
Systemic Hurdles
Delay seems to be the default option in criminal procedure. Hurdles are expected at every stage: from the FIR to investigation, filing of chargesheet, framing of charges, trial, and appeal. The solutions are well-known: filling court vacancies, police reforms, technology integration, strong anti-corruption measures, hybrid courts, strengthening legal aid, and more lok adalats. However, the sluggish clean-up exacerbates the crisis of credibility.
A loss of trust in procedures opens a window for corruption. The Supreme Court has repeatedly expressed dismay over the state of affairs. Institutional efficiency demands a more direct and determined intervention.
Urgent Need for Reform
The editorial calls for an end to complacency. The judiciary must prioritise speedy trials and restore public trust. Without decisive action, the backlog will only grow, undermining the very foundation of justice.
