‘Shocking State Of Affairs’ : Supreme Court Expresses Dismay Over Delayed Trials In Maharashtra Courts

The Supreme Court voiced grave concern over systemic delays afflicting criminal trials in Maharashtra, describing the situation as a “shocking state of affairs” and stressing the corrosive effect of prolonged adjournments on the administration of justice. The Court reviewed institutional and infrastructural bottlenecks, case pendency statistics, and practices that perpetuate delay — including routine adjournments, inadequate judicial and ministerial capacity, deficient case management and inconsistent compliance with timelines for evidence recording and witness attendance. Emphasising the accused’s constitutional right to a timely trial and victims’ right to closure, the Court urged corrective measures: stricter case management, judicial monitoring, adoption of calendar-based listings, fast-track mechanisms, and administrative reforms to reduce avoidable gaps. The article encapsulates the Court’s admonition that systemic lethargy undermines public confidence, calling for coordinated steps by courts, registry, and state authorities to restore pace and accountability in criminal proceedings.