Fair Trial Is A Constitutional Goal And Basic Fundamental Right Of Every Individual: Delhi HC
⚖️ Fair Trial as a Constitutional Goal and Fundamental Right
1. Introduction
Fair trial is the cornerstone of justice in any democratic society.
It guarantees that every individual is given an impartial, transparent, and just procedure before any deprivation of liberty or rights.
It is rooted in Article 21 of the Indian Constitution which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty.
The right to a fair trial is a basic facet of the right to life and liberty, essential to uphold the rule of law.
2. Key Features of Fair Trial
Right to be heard (audi alteram partem)
Right to legal representation
Right to a public hearing
Presumption of innocence until proven guilty
Impartiality of the judiciary or adjudicating authority
Reasoned and timely judgment
Protection against arbitrary or oppressive procedures
3. Delhi High Court's Stand
The Delhi High Court has emphasized in various rulings that the right to a fair trial is not just a procedural safeguard but a constitutional imperative.
Any infringement upon fair trial rights amounts to violation of fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution.
The Court has often reminded law enforcement, prosecutors, and judicial officers to ensure fair trial norms are strictly observed.
4. Relevant Case Law
a) Kartar Singh v. State of Punjab, AIR 1995 SC 569
The Supreme Court held that Article 21 includes the right to a fair trial.
The right to a fair trial encompasses right to adequate defense and a just procedure.
Denial of fair trial is a violation of fundamental rights.
b) Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India, AIR 1978 SC 597
Expanded the scope of Article 21 to include fair and just procedure.
No person shall be deprived of personal liberty except by a procedure established by law which is fair, just, and reasonable.
c) Hussainara Khatoon v. State of Bihar, AIR 1979 SC 1369
The Court highlighted the right to speedy and fair trial as an essential part of Article 21.
Emphasized the need to protect accused persons from prolonged detention without trial.
d) Delhi High Court: Shobha Rani v. Madhukar Reddi, 1988 SCC (Cri) 130
The Court underscored the importance of fair trial in ensuring justice.
Observed that violation of fair trial norms leads to miscarriage of justice.
e) State of Punjab v. Baldev Singh, AIR 1999 SC 1727
Reinforced that procedural safeguards and fair trial are constitutional rights.
Any violation vitiates the entire trial.
5. Constitutional and Legal Foundations
| Provision | Significance |
|---|---|
| Article 21 | Right to life and liberty; includes fair trial |
| Article 14 | Right to equality before law; fair treatment |
| Section 24 and 25, Indian Evidence Act | Right to cross-examination, to produce evidence |
| CrPC Sections 303-309 | Procedures to ensure fair trial (e.g., recording evidence) |
6. Importance of Fair Trial
Protects against arbitrary state action.
Ensures public confidence in the justice system.
Upholds the rule of law and constitutional democracy.
Safeguards the rights of the accused and victims alike.
Promotes justice through transparency and accountability.
7. Conclusion
The Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court have firmly established that the right to a fair trial is a fundamental constitutional right integral to the right to life and liberty under Article 21. Ensuring fair trial is not only a procedural necessity but also a vital aspect of justice and democracy.
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