2024 has been a defining year for India's criminal justice system.
The courts weren't just handing out judgments — they were reshaping how we think about rights, justice, and accountability.
Let’s walk through some of the most important criminal law decisions that made headlines this year.
1. A New Language for Child Protection: Goodbye "Child Pornography"
In a historic decision (Just Rights for Children Alliance v. S. Harish, September 2024), the Supreme Court said something powerful:
Words matter.
The court directed that we stop using the term "child pornography" and instead say "Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitative Material" (CSEAM).
Why? Because calling it "pornography" made it sound less serious, almost casual. But we’re talking about crimes against children — there’s nothing casual about that.
Justice Pardiwala explained that the new term puts the focus where it should be: on the victim's suffering and the criminal's exploitative intent.
Also, now, even possessing such material is a punishable offense — not just creating or distributing it.
A small change in words, a huge change in mindset.
2. ED’s Arrest Powers Get a Reality Check
For years, people accused the Enforcement Directorate (ED) of misusing its power to arrest under the PMLA (Prevention of Money Laundering Act).
In May 2024, the Supreme Court finally stepped in.
It ruled:
Once the special court takes cognizance of the case, the ED can't arrest the accused without court permission.
It also eased the harsh bail conditions under PMLA.
This was a huge moment — protecting people from being arrested without strong reasons and making sure that due process is followed.
Justice, after all, is not just about punishment — it’s about fairness.
3. Bulldozer Politics Meets the Constitution
Demolitions of homes and shops in the name of "punishing criminals" became a disturbing trend.
But the Supreme Court, in November 2024, made it crystal clear:
You can't punish people by demolishing their homes without due process.
The court said authorities must:
- Issue proper notices,
- Provide time to respond, and
- Record everything (videography!) to ensure transparency.
And importantly, the court reminded everyone that justice cannot have a religious or political bias.
A powerful reminder that the Constitution, not bulldozers, must be the foundation of governance.
4. Swift Justice: Trainee Doctor's Rape and Murder
In a tragic case that shook the nation, a police volunteer was found guilty of raping and murdering a 31-year-old trainee doctor in Kolkata.
In just a few months, the court sentenced him to life imprisonment.
This case led the Supreme Court to order the setting up of a national task force — aimed at making hospitals and workplaces safer for women.
One case, many lessons:
- Speedy trials are possible.
- Workplace safety isn’t optional.
- Justice should not be delayed.
5. Legislators Are Not Above the Law
Another bombshell came in the case of Sita Soren v. Union of India.
The big question was:
If a lawmaker takes a bribe for voting a certain way in Parliament, can they be prosecuted?
Earlier, many believed that legislators had immunity. But the 2024 ruling said:
No immunity for bribery.
Lawmakers are public servants, not kings. Accountability must start at the top.
Final Thoughts
This year’s judgments show a clear shift in India’s legal system:
- More rights for individuals,
- More checks on government power, and
- Stronger protection for the vulnerable.
The courts are sending a strong message — justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done.
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