In Brief
A petition sought a court order directing Parliament to enact comprehensive legislation against custodial torture based on the UN Convention Against Torture. The petitioner, a former Rajya Sabha Select Committee chairperson, argued that custodial torture violates the fundamental right to life and liberty. While the Court acknowledged that torture is a grave constitutional violation and that courts can award compensation as a public remedy, it held that directing Parliament to legislate would exceed judicial powers and violate separation of powers. The petition was dismissed, holding that the responsibility to enact laws rests with Parliament alone.
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