In a rather unusual remark during a Supreme Court hearing, Justice Bela M Trivedi addressed a plea for relief by an overweight accused by suggesting continued custody could aid in weight management. The incident occurred on Friday when the defense counsel highlighted the accused’s health issues related to her weight.
The dialogue unfolded as the counsel sought relief for the woman, hinting at her physical ailments without directly naming them. Justice Trivedi responded to the mention of the accused’s weight by questioning, “Should that be the ground for relief?” When the lawyer clarified the health concerns, she retorted, “Let her stay in custody so that her weight is reduced.”
Justice Trivedi, known for her stringent stance on bail provisions, has previously expressed her belief that the Supreme Court should not routinely intervene in bail matters. In a statement during a May 2024 hearing, she emphasized that such issues should conclude at the High Court level, commenting, “Bail matters, Supreme Court should not interfere. That is my opinion. It should rest and end with High Courts…Supreme Court has become a bail court.”
This latest comment has sparked a mix of reactions, highlighting the ongoing debate about the role of the judiciary in the personal health management of individuals in custody.
