MATHEW AREEPARMTIL & ORS. vs STATE OF BIHAR AND ORS.

The Supreme Court, under Article 32 of the Constitution, addressed the plight of Adivasi accused languishing in jails without trial for petty offences. The Court ordered that those facing sentences of 7 years or more be released on personal bond, while others with ongoing trials could also be released on bail unless special circumstances exist. Additionally, it mandated the release of accused if no proceedings occurred within 3 years of FIR under Section 169 Cr.P.C., and emphasized that misuse of Section 144 Cr.P.C. should be avoided.