Delhi Police To Ensure Officers Attend Court For Depositions

Following strong protests by lawyers over police officers failing to appear in courts for deposition and evidence, the Delhi Police assured that its officials will henceforth attend proceedings diligently to avoid disruption of trials. Lawyers had raised concerns that frequent non-appearance of police witnesses caused repeated adjournments, undermining the efficiency of criminal justice and prolonging cases unnecessarily. The issue reached a flashpoint after several trial courts criticized the practice, observing that incomplete witness testimony delays convictions, hampers the accused’s right to speedy trial, and burdens the judiciary. Responding to the uproar, Delhi Police leadership issued directions mandating officers to prioritize court attendance over routine duties and warned of disciplinary action against those failing to comply. The Supreme Court and various High Courts have previously emphasized the importance of police accountability in ensuring smooth conduct of trials, and this development signals institutional recognition of the problem. By committing to a structural change, the Delhi Police seeks to restore confidence in its role as a responsible stakeholder in the justice system. The move also comes amid growing concerns over backlog of criminal cases in Delhi’s trial courts, where witness absence is a key cause of adjournments. If implemented effectively, the policy could significantly improve trial efficiency, reduce pendency, and strengthen faith in justice delivery. However, sustained monitoring and strict enforcement will be crucial to ensure compliance by rank-and-file officers.