Ujjwal Nikam flags delay in acquittal appeals, seeks timely justice

Ujjwal Nikam, public prosecutor and Rajya Sabha MP, raised concerns about delays in hearing appeals against acquittals.

Nikam cited Supreme Court observation that as of March 25, 2025, over seven lakh criminal appeals were pending in high courts, including thousands of acquittal appeals.

He argued that delayed acquittal appeals can leave innocent individuals under the shadow of unresolved prosecution.

Section 419 of Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023 governs appeals against acquittals, allowing state or complainant to challenge if grave error of law or evidence appreciation.

Nikam emphasized state's responsibility as major litigant to ensure timely justice in criminal administration.