K. Sudarolivu vs State

P. Devadass, J.—Petitioner has been cited as 15th prosecution witness in the list of witnesses in the final report has come up with this petition for expeditious trial and disposal of C.C. No. 52 of 2014, pending on the file of learned Judicial Magistrate No. I, Tirunelveli.

Heard the learned counsel for the petitioner and the learned Government Advocate (Criminal side).

This case involves alleged swindling of money of Kulasekarapatti Panchayat. The complaint has been given by Block Development Officer.

Now, the principle of law relating to speedy disposal has been given a new dimension. Courts were under the impression that the accused alone is entitled to speedy justice. The right and plight of the victims of the crime has also become equally important. The victims of crime are also entitled to speedy justice.

In this case, P.W.15, who is an official, who was also instrumental in lodging the prosecution came for speedy trial and justice.

Altogether 22 witnesses have been cited in the final report. However, the trial is yet to take off. Petitioner is asking a minimum relief. In a way it will also ensure benefit to the accused also.

It has been submitted by the learned Government Advocate (Criminal side), prosecution is ready to produce the witnesses.

In the circumstances, the learned Judicial Magistrate No. I, Tirunelveli is directed to take expeditious steps to make ready the trial of C.C. No. 52 of 2014 and try the case expeditiously, and dispose it of at an early date, preferably within five months from the date of receipt of a copy of this order.

Both the prosecution as well as the defence counsel will cooperate with the learned Magistrate to complete the trial of the case within the time fixed by this Court.

Accordingly, this Criminal Original Petition is disposed of.