MADHAV HAYAWADANRAO HOSKOT vs STATE OF MAHARASHTRA

The Supreme Court held that under Section 363 of the Criminal Procedure Code, 1973, an accused must be provided a copy of the judgment free of cost immediately after pronouncement. The Court emphasized the importance of Articles 21 and 22 of the Constitution, which guarantee the right to a fair procedure and legal counsel. The Court found that the failure of jail authorities to deliver the judgment copy to the accused violated his rights, leading to the dismissal of his special leave petition. The Court also highlighted the need for correctional approaches in sentencing, advocating for nominal punishment in serious social offenses.