In a significant verdict, the Supreme Court has underscored crucial factors to be considered by courts when determining the period of sentence for convicts before remission could be sought. The judgment, delivered by a three-judge Bench comprising Justices B.R. Gavai, K.V. Vishwanathan, and Sandeep Mehta, provides essential guidance for sentencing in criminal cases.
The judgment, authored by Justice Vishwanathan, highlights several factors that courts should take into account during sentencing deliberations. These factors include the number of deceased victims and their age and gender, the nature of injuries inflicted, the motive behind the offense, whether the offense was committed while the convict was on bail, the premeditated nature of the offense, the relationship between the offender and the victim, the abuse of trust, criminal antecedents, and the potential threat posed by the convict if released.
This comprehensive framework was developed after a thorough examination of 27 cases, including the recent decision in Ravinder Singh vs State Govt. of NCT of Delhi, (2024) 2 SCC 323. The genesis of the case lies in a tragic incident involving the brutal murder of a family, including a child and an elderly woman. The accused, allegedly engaged in an illicit affair with the deceased’s wife, committed the heinous crime and later attempted suicide.
The Trial Court initially sentenced the accused, but the case underwent further scrutiny upon appeal. The Supreme Court, recognizing the gravity of the situation, outlined the relevant factors to be considered in such cases, ensuring a fair and just approach to sentencing.
By providing clarity on sentencing guidelines and meticulously analyzing past cases, the Supreme Court aims to ensure consistency and fairness in the judicial process. This landmark judgment serves as a beacon for future sentencing deliberations, promoting accountability and justice in the legal system.
In light of this ruling, courts are expected to apply these factors diligently in similar cases, upholding the principles of justice and ensuring appropriate punishment for offenders.
