What is Death Penalty?
Historical Background
Key Points
9 points- 1.
Awarded for 'rarest of rare' cases as defined by the Supreme Court.
- 2.
Requires confirmation by the High Court.
- 3.
The convict has the right to appeal to the Supreme Court.
- 4.
The convict can file a mercy petition to the President of India under Article 72 and to the Governor of the State under Article 161.
- 5.
Debate on its effectiveness as a deterrent.
- 6.
Concerns about its irreversible nature in case of wrongful conviction.
- 7.
Arguments based on human rights and the right to life.
- 8.
India's stance is that it is a necessary evil for heinous crimes.
- 9.
Alternative punishments include life imprisonment.
Visual Insights
Death Penalty in India: Key Aspects
A mind map illustrating the key aspects of the death penalty in India, including legal framework, constitutional provisions, and related concerns.
Death Penalty
- ●Legal Framework
- ●Constitutional Provisions
- ●Judicial Review
- ●Ethical Concerns
Evolution of Death Penalty Jurisprudence in India
A timeline illustrating the key milestones in the evolution of death penalty jurisprudence in India, including landmark judgments and legislative developments.
The death penalty in India has been subject to ongoing debate and judicial scrutiny. The Supreme Court has consistently emphasized the 'rarest of rare' doctrine, but concerns remain about its application and the risk of executing innocent people.
- 2015Supreme Court guidelines on mitigating circumstances in death penalty cases.
- 2018Law Commission of India recommends abolishing the death penalty except in cases of terrorism.
- 2020Supreme Court emphasizes the need for individualized sentencing in death penalty cases.
- 2023Parliament debates on potential reforms to the death penalty sentencing process.
- 2025High acquittal rate of death row prisoners raises concerns over trial convictions.
- 2026Study reveals 574 people on death row, the largest number since 2016.
Recent Developments
5 developmentsIncreasing global trend towards abolition of the death penalty.
Debate on whether it violates fundamental human rights.
Focus on reforming the criminal justice system to prevent wrongful convictions.
Supreme Court's emphasis on ensuring fair trial and due process in death penalty cases.
Cases involving terrorism often lead to calls for the death penalty.