Equality Before Law: SC Rules Against VIP Privileges in Criminal Trials
- ByAdmin --
- 11 Apr 2025 --
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A senior bureaucrat accused of bribery in Gujarat requested “special exemptions” from attending trial proceedings due to “high-level duties.”
The trial court allowed it.
But in a 2025 appeal, the Supreme Court reversed that order, declaring that no one—no matter how senior—stands above the law.
Legal Anchor: Article 14
Article 14 guarantees equality before the law and equal protection of the laws.
It means:
- All citizens are subject to the same laws
- Status, power, or position doesn’t offer immunity in civil or criminal procedures
What the Court Said
- Trial exemptions can only be granted in exceptional circumstances, not bureaucratic routine
- Allowing such exemptions violates judicial fairness and public trust
- Courts must ensure that process doesn’t favor the privileged
“There is no VIP lounge in the courtroom,” the bench observed sharply.
Broader Implications
- Applies to politicians, celebrities, civil servants, and corporate bigwigs
- Reaffirms judicial impartiality
- Encourages trial courts to maintain uniform standards for appearance, bail, and testimony
When the gavel falls, the Constitution ensures everyone stands on the same floor.
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