Supreme Court directs all High Courts and States to complete child trafficking trials in six months.
Case in News
Supreme Court orders speedy trial in child trafficking cases and raps Allahabad High Court and Uttar Pradesh Government
Case Overview
Case Name: Pinki vs. State of Uttar Pradesh and Anr,
In this case, a bench of Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice R Mahadevan of the Supreme Court of India issued significant directions relating to the handling of Human Trafficking cases. The case arose after the Allahabad High Court granted bail to accused persons in a child trafficking racket who was later absconded. The Uttar Pradesh government failed to seek bail cancellation by prompting strict observations from the apex court.
Key Aspects
- Accused involved in a large child trafficking racket were granted bail by the High Court of Allahabad.
- The accused did not appear for proceedings post bail.
- The state showed negligence in ensuring bail cancellation.
- Delay and laxity in proceedings of trial in child trafficking cases across India.
Legal Insights
- Invoked directions from a 2013 Supreme Court order on missing children who were treated as trafficked until proven otherwise.
- Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection) Act, 2000 and Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986.
- IPC Section 228A, JJ Act Section 21, and CrPC Sections 327 & 357 for victim protection and compensation.
Court’s Verdict
The Supreme Court of India cancelled the bail of all accused and ordered all High Courts for the completion of Human Trafficking case trials within 6 months. It also ordered all States and High Courts to implement recommendations from the BIRD report by giving warning that non-compliance may attract contempt. The Court will review the matter in October 2025.
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