Bombay High Court Quashes Death Sentence Over Violation of Fair Trial Rights, Directs Fresh Trial

The Bombay High Court set aside a death sentence awarded by a Nashik Sessions Court in a 2017 rape and murder case of a minor, citing violation of the accused’s right to a fair trial.

The Court found that the accused was not properly represented by a lawyer at crucial stages, and the trial was conducted in undue haste.

It held that legal aid and effective representation are essential under Article 21.

Emphasising that even in grave offences fairness cannot be compromised, the Court quashed the conviction and ordered a fresh trial to be completed within a stipulated time.

[The State of Maharashtra v. Vilas Annasaheb Mahale]