Speedy trial fundamental right, undertrial can't be subjugated to indefinite incarceration: SC

Speedy conclusion of trial is a fundamental right and an undertrial cannot be subjugated to indefinite incarceration, the Supreme Court said on Friday.

A bench of Justices Hrishikesh Roy and Pankaj Mithal granted bail to a man, who was in custody for about four years in a case lodged in Bihar, observing the case's trial wouldn't be over soon.

The top court's order came on a plea filed by one Raushan Singh, who challenged the Patna High Court's June verdict dismissing his bail application.

"An undertrial cannot be subjugated to indefinite incarceration. Speedy conclusion of trial is a fundamental right, well-recognised in our jurisprudence," the bench said.

Singh's counsel informed the bench that the petitioner was in custody since his arrest in October 2020, and the case's trial was still inconclusive.

The counsel appearing for the state said three more prosecution witnesses were to be examined in the case.