New Delhi, May 8: The Supreme Court of India on Friday issued a landmark directive to ensure the speedy trial of cases investigated by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The apex court ordered the establishment of at least one dedicated special court to handle 10 to 15 pending trials in NIA-related cases, emphasizing the urgent need to reduce delays in the judicial process.
A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi highlighted that the special courts must be operational within one month. The court underscored the significance of expediting trials in cases where the Centre, through the NIA, acts as the prosecuting agency, in order to ensure timely justice.
The bench further directed the Union government to consult the chief justices of the jurisdictional high courts to facilitate the creation of these exclusive courts under Section 11 of the National Investigation Agency Act, 2008. This move is expected to streamline NIA prosecutions and prevent the backlog of cases that often slows the delivery of justice in sensitive and high-profile matters.
By establishing dedicated special courts, the Supreme Court aims to enhance judicial efficiency, ensuring that NIA cases are adjudicated swiftly without compromising on due process or legal rigor.
