Raj Bala vs State Of Haryana And Ors. Etc. Etc

The Supreme Court emphasized the principle of proportionality in sentencing, stating that punishment must reflect the gravity of the crime while considering factors such as the nature of culpability, antecedents of the accused, and potential for reformation. The Court reiterated that sentencing should not be excessively harsh or lenient but should be guided by rational judicial discretion based on the specific facts of each case. The judgment reinforces the need for a balanced approach in sentencing, ensuring that the collective cry of society is addressed without compromising the individual circumstances of the offender.