Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Apr 2: The Supreme Court has underscored that even a criminal is entitled to certain legal protections, directing all states and Union Territories to strictly adhere to custodial safeguards.

A bench of Justices Ahsanuddin Amanullah and Prashant Kumar Mishra stressed the crucial role of the police in maintaining public trust and societal security. "Ensuring public confidence in the police force is of utmost importance," the court observed.

The court pulled up Haryana Police after a man alleged unlawful detention and custodial abuse. His counsel presented an email sent to senior officials at 11:24 am, highlighting his arrest, following which an FIR was filed two hours later, allegedly as a reactionary move.

The bench noted apparent “high-handedness” and emphasized that even an accused must be treated as per the law. "A common man may exceed limits, but not the police," it remarked, warning officers against any future violations.

Directing state DGPs to enforce a "zero-tolerance" approach, the apex court stated that any recurrence would invite strict action. It also instructed its registry to circulate its 2024 verdict to all DGPs and the Delhi Police commissioner as a firm reminder of custodial rights.