In Brief
A man convicted of murder under Section 302 IPC and sentenced to life imprisonment applied for premature release after serving 17 years, 9 months of his sentence. The State rejected his application without considering his individual circumstances, prior criminal history, or conduct in jail. The Supreme Court held that administrative orders affecting fundamental rights must demonstrate considered judgment on case-specific facts. A blanket rejection based on general considerations applicable to all serious offences violates Article 21. The Court set aside the rejection and directed reconsideration within two months, examining all relevant factors.
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