Delhi L-G T.S. Sandhu Directs Govt Lawyers to Improve Conviction Rates, Tackle Trial Delays

Delhi Lieutenant Governor T.S. Sandhu on Monday directed government prosecutors to take concrete steps to improve conviction rates, reduce case pendency and address avoidable delays in court proceedings, stressing that “justice delayed cannot be allowed to become justice denied”.

During a meeting with officials of the Directorate of Prosecution, Sandhu expressed concern over low conviction rates, the growing backlog of cases and delays in the disposal of court matters in the National Capital.

He emphasised the need to strengthen pre-trial scrutiny of charge-sheets, minimise adjournments and ensure the timely production of witnesses.

In a post on X, Sandhu said, “Justice delayed cannot become justice denied. Every avoidable delay and lapse must be addressed. Directed all concerned agencies to act with urgency, coordination and accountability to strengthen prosecution and ensure more effective delivery of justice.”

In another post, he said he had reviewed the functioning of the Directorate of Prosecution, Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD), and expressed concern over low conviction rates, mounting case pendency and delays in disposal.

According to an official statement, the Lieutenant Governor directed the department to implement immediate, outcome-oriented measures to improve conviction rates.

He called for stronger monitoring mechanisms, an overhaul of case-tracking systems, streamlined file allocation and the identification of delays during trials.

Sandhu also stressed the need to ensure timely justice by adhering to the timelines prescribed under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).

Among his key suggestions was the operationalisation of “trial in absentia” wherever legally applicable. He also called for greater accountability among investigating officers regarding the quality of investigations and the collection of evidence.

To improve conviction rates, Sandhu suggested fixing accountability in cases resulting in the acquittal of accused persons.

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

The Lieutenant Governor also emphasised better coordination among prosecution teams, the Delhi Police and forensic science laboratories (FSLs). He called for stronger day-to-day coordination and more effective briefings of investigating officers to prosecutors.

The measures are aimed at addressing procedural shortcomings, improving the quality of prosecutions and ensuring more efficient disposal of cases.