Supreme Court Acquits Rape & Murder Accused Over Poor Legal Aid

The SC acquitted a man from Uttar Pradesh who was sentenced to death by a trial court for the rape and murder of a 9-year-old girl, citing inadequate legal representation. The Court stressed that for cases with potential life or death sentences, only experienced criminal lawyers with at least 10 years of practice should be appointed as legal aid advocates.

The Court found flaws in the trial, such as improper cross-examination and failure to comply with Section 313 of the CrPC.

The SC directed the public prosecutors to ensure accused individuals are informed of their right to legal aid at all stages and called for proper training for legal aid advocates handling criminal cases, further issuing guidelines for ensuring fair trials and adequate legal aid for prisoners.