In Brief
The Supreme Court heard appeals against a High Court order that disposed of writ petitions with observations that could prejudice a criminal complaint. The case involved offences under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 and the Karnataka Prevention of Cow Slaughter and Cattle Preservation Act, 1964. The Court held that the Investigating Officer and trial Magistrate must proceed strictly on the basis of evidence and law, wholly uninfluenced by the High Court's observations, to ensure a fair and independent investigation and trial on merits. The appeals were disposed of with directions to the Magistrate to finalize the matter within six months.
The lawyer headnote and full judgment text are available to registered users.