Assam CM urges judicial reforms for faster resolutions in crimes against women, children

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma called for urgent judicial reforms to expedite case resolutions, particularly in sensitive cases involving women and children, during an address in Cachar on December 1.

 

Highlighting systemic challenges, Sarma emphasised the necessity of completing criminal investigations within two months and concluding trial processes within a year. "Society can only uphold democracy if justice is delivered efficiently and fairly," he stated.

 

The chief minister pinpointed a growing public frustration where victims, especially in serious crimes like rape, are increasingly seeking immediate resolution from law enforcement instead of traditional judicial channels. This trend, he argued, stems directly from prolonged court proceedings.

 

Sarma urged the legal community to take collective responsibility. "No guilty individual, especially those involved in crimes against women, should go unpunished," he declared. Simultaneously, he stressed the importance of protecting innocent individuals from wrongful prosecution.

 

Specifically addressing the legal fraternity in Assam, Sarma made a passionate appeal and urged lawyers not to seek unnecessary delays or adjournments in sensitive cases. He challenged advocates to prioritise swift justice, suggesting that if a client is innocent, they should be quickly acquitted, and if guilty, face legal consequences without unnecessary postponements.

 

Praising the district judiciary's handling of POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) cases, Sarma noted that the outcome is secondary to the speed and fairness of the judicial process. "What matters is the swift resolution of cases and the strong message it sends to society," he emphasised.