Identifying people by Race, Region, Sex or Caste is ‘Treading a Regressive Path’, SC orders urgent policy for time-bound trials in Discrimination Cases

On Wednesday, addressing concerns over delays in sensitive criminal matters, the Supreme Court called upon the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court to consider framing a policy for ensuring time-bound trials in cases of racial discrimination, particularly those involving individuals from the north-east. The Court highlighted the need to prioritise such matters, noting that prolonged delays risk undermining effective access to justice in socially significant cases.

The case arose from a plea highlighting persistent delays in the adjudication of racial discrimination cases, even where investigations were complete, and charge sheets had already been filed. Counsel pointed out that despite procedural readiness, trials were not progressing expeditiously, leaving victims without timely relief. The plea sought judicial intervention to ensure that such cases are not treated as routine but handled with urgency, given their societal implications.

The Bench stressed the need for systemic reform rather than case-specific directions. It observed that cases involving racial bias demand urgent attention and should be placed on a priority footing. Emphasising the constitutional commitment to equality, the Court remarked that “identifying persons on grounds of race, region, sex and caste would amount to treading a regressive path.” The Court, while refraining from issuing direct operational mandates, requested the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court to take a holistic policy decision to ensure the timely disposal of such cases.

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