Supreme Court Justice Abhay Oka Condemns Politicians' Capital Punishment Promises Amid 'Mob Rule'

Justice Abhay Oka highlighted the perils of 'mob rule' incited by politicians promising capital punishment, asserting only the judiciary can issue verdicts. Addressing the Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa, he emphasized the judiciary's independence and sensitivity. Union Minister Ramdas Athawale's recent demand for death penalties in certain cases underscores Oka's points.

On Sunday, Justice Abhay Oka of the Supreme Court voiced concerns over the emergence of 'mob rule,' driven by politicians pledging capital punishment following certain incidents. He stressed that only the judiciary is empowered to deliver legal verdicts.

Speaking at a Pune conference organized by the Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa, Justice Oka reaffirmed the need for the judiciary's independence and the timely delivery of impartial judgments. He also mentioned that the judiciary faces unjust criticism in some cases where bail is granted.

Justice Oka emphasized the necessity of sensitivity among lawyers and judicial bodies to uphold constitutional values, warning that democracy would falter without this responsibility. His comments come in the context of recent incidents like the Kolkata rape and murder case, spotlighting the problematic promises of capital punishment by political figures.

(With inputs from agencies.)