New Delhi (National Times): In a firm stance against juvenile delinquency, the Supreme Court on Monday denied bail to a minor implicated in four identical criminal cases, citing his habitual criminal behavior as a serious concern.
The bench of Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice R Mahadevan remarked that the accused had become a repeat offender and could not exploit his age to escape legal consequences.
“He is incorrigible! Just incorrigible,” the Court observed, highlighting the gravity of the charges.
The Court also criticized the misuse of juvenile laws, stating, “In the name of being a juvenile, he cannot continue looting people. These are serious crimes, and yet offenders repeatedly evade justice under juvenile protections.”
The accused, previously granted bail in three cases, had approached the Supreme Court after the Rajasthan High Court refused to release him in a case of extortion and criminal intimidation.
The apex court acknowledged that the juvenile had been in custody for over 1 year and 8 months, but refused to grant relief, stating: “Even if the juvenile court finds him guilty, the maximum punishment he faces is three years. However, given the severity of his repeated offences, we are not convinced that he deserves bail.”
Additionally, the Court noted that charges had been framed, but the trial was being delayed due to witnesses failing to appear.
“If witnesses are not turning up, it affects the petitioner’s right to a speedy trial. The juvenile court must ensure that the prosecution produces its witnesses without further delay,” the Court directed.
Given the refusal of bail, the Supreme Court ordered the trial to be concluded within four months, directing the lower court to conduct proceedings on a daily basis if required.
“We instruct the trial court to expedite proceedings and ensure justice is delivered swiftly,” the bench ruled.
