Supreme Court Issues Fresh Directions to High Courts on Bail Matters

The Supreme Court expressed serious concern over prolonged delays in hearing bail and anticipatory bail applications and issued fresh directions to High Courts for their timely disposal.

The Court observed that matters involving personal liberty cannot be kept pending indefinitely and emphasised that unnecessary adjournments defeat the purpose of bail proceedings.

It directed High Courts to prioritise such cases and evolve mechanisms for faster listing and disposal.

The Court also stressed that investigating agencies and State authorities must cooperate to ensure timely hearings and avoid prolonged uncertainty for accused persons awaiting decisions on their bail pleas.