AIROnline 2024 SC 839

Supreme Court Of India

Hon'ble Judge(s): C. T. Ravikumar, Sanjay Karol , JJ

Prevention of Witch (Daain) Practices Act (9 of 1999) , S.4— Constitution of India , Art.21, Art.51A— Prevention of witch practices - Stay of proceedings under Act of 1999 - Legality - Victim was not only accused of witchcraft but was also physically and verbally abused, disrobed, and assaulted in public - Another person who was present was also disrobed, and her jewellery was snatched - Court granting a stay of proceedings should not grant a stay in a mechanical manner - Dignity is an invaluable aspect of Indian Constitutional jurisprudence - Protection of dignity for all human beings as also the protection of women against discrimination form important parts of obligations under International Law in so far as India is concerned - Matter was directed to be placed on file of concerned District Court to proceed in accordance with law - Trial against accused persons shall proceed on day-to-day basis - Accused persons were directed to appear before Trial Court. (Para 17 27) .....