Court Highlights Lack of Coordination in Prosecution, Orders Expedited Day-to-Day Trial
In a significant ruling, the Madhya Pradesh High Court, Indore Bench, presided over by Justice Gajendra Singh, dismissed the bail application of Prem Singh, accused under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. The dismissal comes in light of the serious nature of the crime and inefficiencies highlighted in the prosecution process.
Prem Singh, a member of the Rajput community, stands accused of involvement in the death of Ayush Malviya, who belonged to a Scheduled Caste. The incident reportedly occurred in July 2025, when Ayush was allegedly assaulted by family members of Prem Singh, leading to his death. The case has drawn attention due to its sensitive nature and the implications of caste-based violence.
The court noted the lack of coordination between the prosecution and police, which resulted in ineffective service of summons to key witnesses, including a police sub-inspector. The bench emphasized the need for the Superintendent of Police, Ratlam, to ensure proper service of summons and witness protection.
Justice Singh referenced the Supreme Court's guidelines on the expedited trial of sensitive cases, underscoring the importance of conducting trials on a day-to-day basis to minimize delays. The trial court has been directed to adhere to these guidelines and complete the trial within six months.
The High Court's order also included instructions for the In-charge of Police Station Namli, Ratlam, to ensure the protection of witnesses and facilitate their presence in court.
The ruling highlights the judiciary's commitment to addressing procedural inefficiencies and ensuring timely justice in cases of alleged atrocities against Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
Bottom line:-
Bail application under SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 - Dismissal of appeal citing lack of evidence, ineffective service of summons to witnesses, and failure in coordination between prosecution and police - Court emphasized conducting trials on a day-to-day basis and completing them within stipulated timelines.
Statutory provision(s): Scheduled Castes and The Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 Sections 14A(2) and 14(3); Criminal Procedure Code, 1973 Section 309.
Prem Singh v. State of Madhya Pradesh, (Madhya Pradesh)(Indore) : Law Finder Doc id # 2910586
