Massive trial delays in IIOJK as 351 cases remain pending for five years

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 14th Mar, 2026) As many as 351 sessions cases have remained pending for over five years in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), prompting the Indian Supreme Court to express serious concern over the prolonged delay in criminal trials in the

territory.

As per Kashmir Media Service, the Supreme Court criticized the unacceptable delays, insisting that undertrial prisoners cannot be kept in custody indefinitely and asked authorities to present a concrete plan to fast-track pending trials.

The court stressed the urgent need for a practical road map to resolve the backlog and ensure speedy justice in the territory.

The observations were made by a bench comprising Justice J. B. Pardiwala and Justice K. V. Viswanathan while examining an affidavit submitted by Principal Secretary (Home) Chandraker Bharti. The affidavit stated that 351 cases involving 585 accused persons have remained pending in courts across Jammu and Kashmir for over five years.

According to the details submitted before the court, 235 cases are currently at the stage of recording oral evidence of prosecution witnesses.

In addition, 14 cases are at the stage of recording statements under Section 313 of the CrPC, 34 cases are awaiting final arguments, six cases are at the stage of judgment, and two cases remain at the charge or evidence stage.

The bench questioned the reasons behind such prolonged delays and asked why witnesses were not being produced for examination on time. Justice Pardiwala observed that once charges are framed, trial courts are expected to record evidence promptly and complete proceedings without unnecessary delay.

The court noted that much of the delay appeared to stem from the failure of prosecuting agencies to present witnesses before trial courts, adding that such reasons cannot justify prolonged trials.

The Supreme Court’s directive underscores the urgent need to address the justice backlog in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, sending a clear message that prolonged delays in criminal trials are intolerable and immediate action is required to uphold the rights of undertrial prisoners.