HUSSAINARA KHATOON & ORS. vs HOME SECRETARY, STATE OF BIHAR, GOVT. OF BIHAR, PATNA

The Supreme Court held that pre-trial detention without a speedy trial violates Article 21 of the Constitution of India, which guarantees the right to life and liberty. The Court emphasized that a procedure that keeps individuals incarcerated for extended periods without trial cannot be deemed 'reasonable, just or fair'. Consequently, the Court directed the release of under-trial prisoners on personal bonds, asserting that expeditious trials are integral to justice and human rights.