MALLIKARJUN KODAGALI (DEAD) REPRESENTED THROUGH LEGAL REPRESENTATIVES vs THE STATE OF KARNATAKA

The Supreme Court emphasized the need to prioritize the rights of crime victims, highlighting the inadequacies in the current legal framework, particularly regarding the registration of FIRs and the trial process. The Court referenced Section 357A of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, which mandates victim compensation schemes, but noted that mere compensation is insufficient. The judgment calls for a balance between the rights of victims and accused, advocating for reforms to enhance the judicial experience for victims, including infrastructure improvements in court settings. The Court reaffirmed its commitment to addressing victim rights, building on precedents such as Lalita Kumari v. Government of Uttar Pradesh and Sakshi v. Union of India.