Apex Court Asks Delhi High Court to Take Up Appeal Out of Turn
The Supreme Court of India has directed the Delhi High Court to hear Kuldeep Singh Sengar’s appeal out of turn in the case relating to the death of the Unnao rape victim’s father.
The Supreme Court issued the direction while considering submissions that the appeal had remained pending for a considerable period despite the serious nature of the case.
Background: Conviction in Custodial Death Case
Kuldeep Sengar, a former Uttar Pradesh legislator, was convicted in connection with the death of the rape survivor’s father, who died following alleged custodial assault after Sengar’s arrest in an earlier case.
The trial court had found Sengar guilty of offences including culpable homicide not amounting to murder. He subsequently filed an appeal before the Delhi High Court challenging his conviction and sentence.
Appeal Pending Before Delhi High Court
Sengar’s counsel informed the Supreme Court that the criminal appeal had not yet come up for effective hearing before the Delhi High Court. Given the gravity of the allegations and the legal issues involved, the appellant sought early adjudication of the appeal.
The plea emphasised that prolonged pendency in criminal appeals impacts both the rights of the accused and the interests of justice.
Supreme Court Orders Priority Hearing
Taking note of the submissions, the Supreme Court directed the Delhi High Court to hear the appeal on a priority basis. The apex court clarified that it was not expressing any opinion on the merits of the case but was only ensuring timely consideration of the appeal.
The Court observed that criminal appeals involving serious convictions deserve expeditious hearing to uphold fairness in the justice delivery system.
Legal Significance of the Direction
Legal experts say the order reinforces the principle that delay in hearing criminal appeals can defeat substantive justice. While speedy trials receive constitutional emphasis, timely disposal of appeals is equally critical, especially in high-stakes criminal cases.
The direction also reflects judicial concern over prolonged incarceration during appellate proceedings.
What Lies Ahead
The Delhi High Court is now expected to list Kuldeep Sengar’s appeal for hearing at the earliest. The outcome of the appeal will determine whether the conviction in the Unnao victim’s father’s death case will stand or require reconsideration.
