UditVani, New Delhi : The Supreme Court on Monday, 24 November 2025, took up Writ Petition (Civil) No. 1147 of 2025, filed by Jawaharlal Sharma, seeking the constitution of an expert committee to draft a national framework for compensating individuals who suffer unjust or arbitrary imprisonment and are later discharged or acquitted.
A Bench comprising Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta briefly heard submissions from Senior Advocate Gopal Shankarnarayanan and Advocate-on-Record Neha Rathi, appearing for the petitioner. After hearing the matter, the Court issued notice to the Union of India, all States, and all Union Territories, directing them to respond.
The petition urges the Supreme Court to establish a committee, headed by a retired judge of the Supreme Court or a High Court, to frame a model scheme for compensation and rehabilitation. It calls for a dedicated national fund to compensate individuals who undergo prolonged incarceration before eventual acquittal or discharge, arguing that such experiences amount to a violation of fundamental rights.
The plea also proposes the inclusion of monetary and non-monetary relief measures, such as psychological counselling, livelihood support, and social reintegration assistance.
The Court has directed the matter to be listed after four weeks for further hearing.
