The Chhattisgarh High Court has issued a directive to expedite the trial in a case under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, emphasizing the need for swift judicial proceedings. The case, CRMP No. 1095 of 2024, involves the petitioner Vijay Namdev @ Babu, who is currently facing charges related to narcotic offenses.
Background of the Case
The petitioner, Vijay Namdev @ Babu, son of the late Nakul Namdev, aged 45 years and residing near Sattipara Diwan Talab, Thana – Ambikapur, District Sarguja, Chhattisgarh, had previously sought bail, which was denied by the High Court on September 29, 2023, in MCRC No. 6243 of 2023. The court had then expressed its expectation that the trial court would endeavor to conclude the trial within six months, provided there were no legal impediments.
Legal Issues Involved
The primary legal issue in this case revolves around the timely administration of justice under the NDPS Act, which is known for its stringent provisions and severe penalties. The NDPS Act mandates strict timelines for the prosecution of cases to ensure that justice is not unduly delayed, which can otherwise result in prolonged pre-trial detention of the accused.
Court’s Decision
Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha presided over the matter. The Special Judge (NDPS Act) Ambikapur, District Surguja, had requested additional time to conclude the trial, citing the recent framing of charges on March 20, 2024, and the presiding officer’s assumption of charge on April 1, 2024. The trial court had fixed the date for considering the trial program, necessitating further time for the trial’s conclusion.
Upon reviewing the request, Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha found the reasons provided by the Special Judge to be reasonable. Consequently, the High Court directed the trial court to conclude the trial within an additional period of three months from the receipt of the order.
Key Observations by the Court
In his order dated May 2, 2024, Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha made several critical observations:
– “The learned Special Judge (NDPS Act) Ambikapur, District- Surguja (C.G.) appears to be reasonable in his request for additional time.”
– “The concerned trial Court is directed to conclude the trial within a further period of three months from the receipt of a copy of this order.”
The Registry has been instructed to send a certified copy of the order to the trial court for immediate compliance, ensuring that the trial progresses without further unnecessary delays.
Parties Involved
– Petitioner: Vijay Namdev @ Babu
– Respondent: State of Chhattisgarh, represented by the Station House Officer, P.S. – Ambikapur, District Sarguja
– Petitioner’s Counsel: None
– Respondent’s Counsel: Mr. Shailendra Sharma, Panel Lawyer
