Delhi LG T.S. Sandhu Calls for Stronger Prosecution, Better Conviction Rates

During a review meeting with officials of the Directorate of Prosecution, Sandhu expressed concern over low conviction rates, a growing backlog of cases and delays in the disposal of court matters. He called for urgent, measurable steps to strengthen the prosecution system and improve justice delivery.

“Justice delayed cannot become justice denied. Every avoidable delay and lapse must be addressed,” Sandhu said in a post on X, adding that all concerned agencies must work with urgency, coordination and accountability.

He also called for stronger scrutiny of charge-sheets before trial, fewer unnecessary adjournments and the timely production of witnesses in court.

According to an official statement, the Lieutenant Governor directed the Directorate of Prosecution to introduce outcome-oriented measures, strengthen case monitoring and overhaul existing tracking mechanisms. He also called for more streamlined file allocation and systematic identification of delays affecting trials.

Sandhu emphasised the need to comply with timelines prescribed under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which governs criminal procedure.

Among his suggestions was using trial in absentia wherever legally permissible. He also called for greater accountability among investigating officers, particularly regarding the quality of investigations and the collection and preservation of evidence.

The Lieutenant Governor further proposed analysing acquittals to identify shortcomings in investigations and prosecution. He stressed that lapses should be examined at every stage of a case, with responsibility fixed wherever warranted.

“Analyse acquittals, identify lapses and ensure accountability at every stage,” he wrote on X.

Sandhu also underscored the importance of closer coordination among prosecutors, the Delhi Police and forensic science laboratories (FSLs). He called for regular coordination and effective briefings of investigating officers to ensure that evidence is properly prepared and presented during trials.

The measures aim to address procedural weaknesses, improve the quality of prosecutions, and reduce avoidable delays in the criminal justice system.