Unjust denial of bail a threat to personal liberty, reforms urgently needed
Unjustified denial of bail and continuous postponement of related hearings are a serious threat to individual liberty. Bail is a critical component of the criminal justice system, so decisions about it should aim to harmonise protection of individual liberties with the demands of justice. The Supreme Court has in the past issued directives to ensure ‘bail, not jail’ as a guiding principle. However, this is not practised consistently by courts. So, India needs comprehensive bail reform that does not leave out disadvantaged groups. Please listen to the latest episode of All Indians Matter.