New Delhi( KCN):
May 21: In a significant development concerning the liberty of a convict awaiting premature release, the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India came down heavily on the Government of West Bengal for delaying the issuance of the final approval order despite a favourable decision already having been taken by the authorities.
The matter was heard in SLP (Crl.) No. 17336/2025 — Sanjoy Paul vs State of West Bengal & Anr. — before a Bench comprising Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah and Justice R. Mahadevan.
Appearing on behalf of the petitioner, Advocates Mr. Maneesh and Mr. Bal Kishan Sharma prominently assisted the Court and highlighted the prolonged delay in implementing the Court’s earlier directions relating to the petitioner’s premature release under the State policy. Other advocates appearing for the petitioner included Mr. Harish Kaushik, Mr. Mohsin Raja, and Mr. Asit Kumar Roy.
During the hearing, counsel for the State informed the Court that although a favourable decision had already been taken on February 27, 2026, the matter was still awaiting formal approval from the State Government.
Taking serious exception to the delay, the Supreme Court observed that it was “shocked” by the stand adopted by the Government of West Bengal. The Bench further remarked that when the liberty of a person is involved, the Government cannot casually sit over the matter.
The Court categorically stated that it “cannot shut its eyes to the situation” and directed the competent authority to pass the final order within five days.
In a stern warning, the apex court further directed that if the final order is not placed on record on the next date of hearing, the Chief Secretary of West Bengal shall remain personally present before the Court to explain the delay.
The matter has now been listed on May 25, 2026, at the top of the Board.
The strong observations made by the Supreme Court are being viewed as a significant reaffirmation of the importance of personal liberty and timely administrative action in matters concerning premature release of convicts.
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