Tripura's Justice System Under Scrutiny: Over 65,000 Cases Pile Up as Conviction Rates Plummet

Tripura's judicial landscape is currently grappling with a formidable challenge, as highlighted by Chief Minister Manik Saha himself. A staggering figure of over 65,000 cases remains pending across various courts in the state, casting a long shadow over the efficacy of its justice delivery system.

This revelation came during the poignant Police Week 2024 celebrations, where the CM addressed critical issues facing law enforcement and the judiciary.

Adding to the concern, the conviction rate in Tripura has experienced a significant downturn. From a commendable 48% in 2021, it dipped to 42% in 2022, and further plummeted to a worrisome 32.8% by December 2023.

This alarming trend underscores a pressing need for introspection and reform within the investigative and judicial processes.

Chief Minister Saha minced no words in emphasizing the critical importance of a robust criminal justice system for the welfare of society. He called upon police personnel to enhance their investigation techniques, stressing that a strong prosecution relies heavily on meticulous and scientific evidence collection.

He highlighted the necessity of submitting chargesheets in a timely manner and ensuring that cases are pursued with utmost diligence from their inception.

The CM urged the police force to adopt a more scientific approach to crime investigation, leveraging modern tools and forensic analysis to build irrefutable cases.

He also recognized the evolving nature of crime, pointing out the growing menace of drug trafficking, and called for intensified efforts to curb this societal ill, linking it directly to the disruption of law and order.

To bolster these efforts, Tripura has already taken proactive steps. The establishment of a Forensic Science College and the setting up of a dedicated Cyber Police Station are significant milestones aimed at equipping the state's law enforcement with advanced capabilities to combat complex crimes in the digital age.

These initiatives are crucial in adapting to new criminal methodologies and enhancing the quality of evidence.

The Chief Minister's address served as a powerful reminder of the solemn duty of the police and judiciary to maintain peace and ensure justice. The journey towards a more efficient and equitable justice system in Tripura will undoubtedly be challenging, but with focused efforts on scientific investigation, timely legal processes, and enhanced training, the state aims to overcome these hurdles and restore public confidence in its institutions.