"Just incorrigible!": Supreme Court denies bail to juvenile offender, orders for expeditious trial

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday refused to grant bail to a juvenile, emphasizing that being a repeat offender does not shield him from the law due to his age.

A Bench comprising Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice R Mahadevan took note of the minor’s criminal history, highlighting that he has four identical cases against him.

"He is incorrigible! Just incorrigible," the Court remarked, adding that juveniles cannot repeatedly evade consequences under the guise of their age.

In the present case of extortion and criminal intimidation, the Rajasthan High Court denied him bail. Notably, the juvenile is already out on bail in three other cases.

While acknowledging that the accused has been in custody for one year and eight months—exceeding half of the maximum three-year sentence under juvenile law, the Court remained unconvinced to grant relief.

Further, the Bench noted delays in trial proceedings due to the non-appearance of witnesses and directed the presiding officer of the juvenile court to ensure their presence.

Ordering an expeditious trial, the Apex Court directed the trial court to conclude proceedings within four months, by conducting hearings on a day-to-day basis if necessary.