Chandigarh: Additional Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, Dr. Sumita Misra, has issued comprehensive directions to the Haryana Police & Prosecution Department to ensure effective and purposeful utilisation of the Plea Bargaining provisions contained in Chapter XXIII of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023. The objective is to expedite the disposal of criminal cases and further strengthen the justice delivery system across the State.
Dr. Misra emphasized that Plea Bargaining is a pro-justice statutory mechanism intended to facilitate early resolution of criminal cases where the offence is punishable with imprisonment of seven years or less. As per the law, an accused may apply for Plea Bargaining within 30 days from the date of framing of charges, enabling a faster and more efficient resolution process.
Dr. Sumita Misra stated that the provisions empower courts to allow the prosecution and the accused to arrive at a mutually satisfactory disposition under judicial supervision, after which the court may pronounce judgment in accordance with law. She observed that such measures are essential to reduce pendency, address excessive caseloads and optimise the use of judicial and administrative resources, which are currently under significant pressure due to the mounting backlog of cases.
The Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department has specifically directed that structured training and capacity-building programmes be organised for investigating officers, supervisory police officers and prosecution staff across all districts of Haryana. These training modules will focus on the legal framework, procedural requirements and ethical safeguards associated with Plea Bargaining to ensure its correct, uniform and lawful application in eligible cases. She stressed that proper training is crucial for identifying suitable cases at the appropriate stage and for guiding the process without compromising fairness or due process.
Dr Misra further emphasised the need for close and continuous coordination between police and prosecution agencies to ensure seamless implementation of the provisions. She called for periodic reviews and assessment meetings to monitor progress and address challenges, reiterating that timely adjudication is fundamental to justice delivery. Effective use of Plea Bargaining, she noted, can significantly enhance public confidence in the criminal justice system while upholding the constitutional guarantee of speedy trial.
