In a hearing that stirred considerable debate, the Supreme Court attributed the prolonged pendency of bail applications in Bihar to the prevailing peace in the state. This observation came during the proceedings of the case [Nandan Mahto vs. The State of Bihar], where a lawyer highlighted the extensive delays faced by bail petitions, often extending up to nine months.
During the session, a plea was made to the Court to issue directives for expediting trials in such cases. “In Bihar, bail matters are pending for nine months,” the lawyer representing the petitioner stressed, seeking more swift judicial proceedings.
Responding to this plea, Justice Vikram Nath, accompanied by Justice Sandeep Mehta on the bench, remarked, “That is why there is some peace in Bihar.” This comment quickly became the focal point of discussions, suggesting a causal link between judicial delays and state tranquility.
The Court ultimately decided not to direct the trial court to speed up the process, and declined the bail request of the petitioner, Nandan Mahto. However, it allowed Mahto the option to withdraw his petition and reapply for bail at the trial court level.
“This petition is accordingly dismissed as withdrawn with liberty to the petitioner to surrender within two weeks from today and apply for regular bail before the Trial Court. If such a prayer is made, the same shall be considered by the Trial Court on its own merits,” the Court concluded.
