Supreme Court directs High Courts to prioritise disposal of matters staying trials in heinous offences

By Staff Reporter | 9 Jan 2026
The Supreme Court of India has directed all High Courts to expeditiously dispose of matters in which interim orders have stayed criminal trials in heinous offences, including murder, rape and dowry death.

The bench expressed concern over prolonged pendency of revision and interlocutory petitions that have stalled trial proceedings for several years, in some instances exceeding two decades. The Court observed that such delays undermine the administration of justice and affect both victims and the accused.

The Court instructed Registrar Generals and Secretary Generals of all High Courts to place pending matters before their respective Chief Justices for immediate listing and disposal. It emphasised that matters concerning serious offences must be prioritised to ensure that trials are not unnecessarily stalled.

The Supreme Court noted that “justice delayed is justice denied” and highlighted the importance of speedy trials in heinous crime cases. The matter has been listed for further consideration on 15 January 2026, with High Courts expected to provide updates on the progress of pending stay petitions.

The directive comes following concern over institutional delay in criminal proceedings, including a case in the Rajasthan High Court where a revision petition had remained pending for more than 22 years, effectively stalling trial proceedings in a serious offence case.