SUK DAS & ANR. vs UNION TERRITORY OF ARUNACHAL PRADESH

The Supreme Court held that the right to free legal assistance is a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution of India, particularly for accused persons unable to afford legal representation due to poverty. The Court found that the trial was vitiated as the Additional Deputy Commissioner failed to inform the appellant of his entitlement to free legal aid, which is essential for a fair trial. Consequently, the Court set aside the conviction and sentence of the appellant and quashed the dismissal from service based on that conviction.