🔍 What Happened

The Supreme Court of India reminded courts that denial of bail should not be used as a punishment before conviction.

🧾 Summary

While hearing a criminal appeal, the Supreme Court stressed that pre-trial detention must not become punitive. The Court held that bail decisions must focus on factors such as flight risk, evidence tampering, and seriousness of offence — not public sentiment or moral judgments. It observed that prolonged incarceration without trial violates the fundamental right to personal liberty under Article 21. This ruling strengthens safeguards for accused persons, especially in cases where trials take years to conclude.

🟢 Public Takeaway

Being accused does not mean guilt — bail is meant to protect liberty until guilt is proven.