Supreme Court Upholds Personal Liberty: Detention Orders Quashed

The Supreme Court has emphasized the imperative to handle cases affecting citizens' personal liberty swiftly, highlighting that even a day's delay matters. The Court quashed the detention of Appisseril Kochu Mohammed Shaji, citing a nine-month delay and negligence by prison authorities in handling his representation under COFEPOSA Act, 1974.

The Supreme Court has reaffirmed the necessity for authorities to swiftly handle cases pertaining to personal liberty, indicating that even a day's delay is crucial. The Court's 60-page verdict quashed the detention orders of Appisseril Kochu Mohammed Shaji, citing significant delays in representation handling by prison authorities.

A bench led by Justice B R Gavai observed that Shaji's detention order, under COFEPOSA Act, 1974, was marred by negligence and delay. The bench noted a lapse of around nine months in addressing Shaji's representation, which was pivotal in violating his rights under Article 22(5) of the Constitution.

Expressing stern disapproval, the bench noted that such delays and negligent handling by authorities undermine the fundamental rights guaranteed to citizens, leading to its decision to quash both the initial detention order and subsequent confirmations by lower authorities.

(With inputs from agencies.)