EXAMINING THECONSTITUTIONAL VALIDITY OF PLEA BARGAINING IN INDIA: A STUDY OF ITS COMPATIBILITY WITH THE PRINCIPLES OF NATURAL JUSTICE AND DUE PROCESS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29121/shodhkosh.v5.i4.2024.3278Keywords:
Constitutional, Criminal Justice System, Defendants, Due Process, Natural Justice Plea BargainingAbstract [English]
The Indian judicial system has long been plagued by a backlog of cases, leading to delays in justice and an increased burden on the courts. Plea Bargaining is a relatively new concept in the Indian criminal justice system (CJS) that has been widely adopted to address the backlog of cases and expedite the judicial process. However, there are concerns about the constitutionality of plea bargaining in India, particularly concerning its compatibility with the principles of natural justice and due process. This research paper will examine the constitutional validity of plea bargaining in India and its compatibility with the principles of natural justice and due process. The study analyses the legal framework governing plea bargaining in India, including relevant constitutional provisions, statutes, and case law. Furthermore, the study critically analyzes the necessity and impact of plea bargaining within the Indian criminal justice system, highlighting its potential to expedite justice while safeguarding accused individuals' rights. The research concludes that, when applied within a framework of fairness, the plea bargaining is compatible with natural justice and the rule of law in India.
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