Supreme Court Sets Aside Madras HC Deadlines to Complete Probe and Trial in Cases Against Savukku Shankar

The Supreme Court set aside directions issued by the Madras High Court fixing timelines for investigation and trial in multiple criminal cases involving YouTuber Savukku Shankar.

The High Court had directed the police to complete the investigation and file charge-sheets within four months, and trial courts to conclude trials within six months. 

The Supreme Court held that such directions were unwarranted, as a writ court cannot compel the filing of charge-sheets or fix rigid trial timelines without assessing the stage of proceedings.

It observed that such orders interfere with investigative discretion and may undermine the right to a fair trial. Investigating officers and trial courts were directed to proceed strictly in accordance with law.

[Savukku Shankar v. State of Tamil Nadu & Ors.]