Overview
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he case of Kartar Singh vs State of Punjab (1994) stands as a landmark judgment in constitutional law that strikes a balance between national security and individual fundamental rights. Arising at a time when India was grappling with intense terrorism particularly in Punjab, the case challenged the constitutionality of stringent anti-terrorism laws, namely the Terrorist Affected Areas (Special Courts) Act, 1984 and the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Acts (TADA) 1985 and 1987. Kartar Singh v. State of Punjab (1994) remains an important case that underscores the role of Judiciary in scrutinizing laws enacted in the name of national security while protecting constitutional liberties.Explore other Landmark Judgments.
Case Overview |
|
Case Title |
Kartar Singh vs State of Punjab |
Citation |
1994 SC (3) 569 |
Date of the Judgment |
11th March, 1994 |
Jurisdiction |
Supreme Court |
Bench |
Justice R.M Sahai, Justice S.R Pandian, Justice M.M Punchhi, Justice K. Ramaswamy and Justice S.C Agrawal. |
Petitioner |
Kartar Singh |
Respondent |
State of Punjab |
Provisions Involved |
Article 20 (3) and Article 21 of the Constitution of India. |
The ruling by the Supreme Court in Kartar Singh vs State of Punjab (1994) addressed the constitutionality of the stringent anti-terrorism laws enacted in the 1980s, including the Terrorist Affected Areas (Special Courts) Act, 1984, and the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Acts (TADA) of 1985 and 1987. This case is important as it highlights the conflict between safeguarding public order and ensuring the protection of fundamental rights provided in the Constitution of India.
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In the 1980s, India faced severe terrorist activities, particularly in the areas of Punjab resulting in violence and unrest. In response, the Central Government enacted the Terrorist Affected Areas (Special Courts) Act, 1984, and TADA Acts of 1985 and 1987, in order to combat terrorism through stringent measures. Kartar Singh challenged these acts, arguing that the acts violated the fundamental rights provided under Part III of the Constitution of India. Kartar Singh Case analyzed the constitutionality of the TADA Acts and addressed concerns about competency of the legislature, fundamental rights, and procedural safeguards.
The following issues were addressed in Kartar Singh vs State of Punjab:
The following legal provisions were involved in Kartar Singh vs State of Punjab:
Articles 245-254 of the Constitution of India
Articles 245-254 of Indian Constitution 1950 concerning the division of legislative powers between the Union and State governments.
Doctrine of Pith and Substance
The doctrine of pith and substance was used to determine the true objective of legislation touching upon subjects in multiple legislative lists.
Article 21 of the Constitution of India (Right to Speedy Trial)
The fundamental right to a speedy trial under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution and its potential compromise under TADA.
Confession and Article 20(3) of the Constitution of India
Protection against self-incrimination under Article 20 of the Indian Constitution and the admissibility of police confessions .
Section 438 of the Criminal Procedure Code, 1973 (Anticipatory Bail)
Addressed the impact of the inapplicability of Section 438 of Criminal Procedure Code, 1973 on Article 21 of the Constitution of India.
The Supreme Court in Kartar Singh vs State of Punjab (1994) upheld the constitutionality of the TADA Acts, affirming the Union Government’s legislative competence under Entry 1 of List I. The Supreme Court highlighted the need for strict measures to deal with terrorism while ensuring that the laws do not infringe Articles 14, 20, and 21 of the Constitution of India.
The decision in Kartar Singh v. State of Punjab (1994) led to public outcry and protests to repeal TADA in 1995. The Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA), 2002 on similar lines was enacted but was later on revoked. The provisions from TADA and POTA were incorporated into the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in Kartar Singh vs State of Punjab judgment.
The Kartar Singh vs State of Punjab case summary reflects how the judiciary worked to protect individual rights while also supporting the need for national security. The Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of the anti-terrorism laws, recognising the state's responsibility to tackle terrorism. At the same time, the judgment did not ignore the concerns raised—dissenting opinions in the Kartar Singh Case pointed to the risk of misuse of power.
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