Representational Image | Photo: Mathrubhumi
In an unusual step, the prosecution was directed to pay Rs 1 lakh to the accused for delaying commencement of the case charged by the Narcotic Control Bureau. A youth named M Ananthan from Chennai was charged under NDPS act and was in judicial custody since 2018. The trial should have commenced early 2019 but was delayed due to the callous attitude of the prosecution.
The Madras High Court observed that there is absolutely no justification for the delay caused in commencing trial. In 2019 the Court had directed the prosecution to expedite the trial but the prosecution flouted it. The High Court reminded the prosecution that the accused had right to get the trial commence as per the directions of the SC that delay in trial infringes the right of accused for speedy trial.
Evaluating the circumstances, the high court observed that the prosecution was so irresponsible in delaying the trial. Hence the compensation was imposed on the prosecution.
The Court also directed that the trial should be completed within three months.
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