Why rely on ancient mode in Internet age: SC on bail order delays

The Supreme Court on Friday expressed wonder that in the era of Internet, the jail authorities continue to rely on ancient mode of communication, to receive bail orders. The apex court issued notice to the states on suo moto matter pertaining to delay in release of convicts from jail after bail.

New Delhi: The Supreme Court issued notice to the states on suo moto matter pertaining to delay in release of convicts from jail after bail. Responding to the argument on the impediment of lack of internet connectivity in release of jail inmates, Chief Justice of India N V Ramana asked states to respond if internet connectivity is required in jails. The court also directed the secretary general to respond to it in two weeks.

The bench comprising of Chief Justice of India NV Ramana, Justice L Nageswara Rao and Justice AS Bopanna heard the matter. There are instances where fake and fabricated orders are given. In such instances, jail authorities require authentic copies and some prisoners could not be released on bail.

"We had ordered release in some matters, and they were not released since they (jail authorities) did not receive authentic copy of orders. This is too much," said CJI Ramana. "The bench, elaborating on the system, said "We are contemplating a system called ASTER: Ask and secure transmission of electronic records. It is meant to communicate all orders to jail authorities concerned without waiting. We are directing Supreme Court Secretary General to place a report in two weeks so that we will try to implement the scheme in a month,"

However, the court said, at first, states would have to respond if they have internet connectivity required for the scheme. The top court asked secretary general to place a proposal before court.