Sukhdev Pehalwan to Be Freed After Completing 20-Year Sentence; Court Slams Delay
Top Court Delivers Key Verdict on Life Imprisonment
The Supreme Court of India has ruled that convicts serving a fixed-term life sentence must be released once their sentence is complete. This decision comes in the case of Sukhdev Pehalwan, who was convicted in the 2002 Nitish Katara murder case.
Pehalwan has completed his 20-year sentence. The court ordered his immediate release, saying no further approval or remission is required in such cases.
Concern for Other Convicts in Similar Situations
The court also raised concerns about other prisoners who might still be in jail despite serving their full sentence. It directed that all such convicts be released immediately.
“If this attitude continues, every convict will die in jail,” said Justice BV Nagarathna, part of the two-judge bench that issued the ruling.
Previous Release Blocked by Sentence Review Board
Although the Supreme Court had already approved Pehalwan’s release on July 29, the Sentence Review Board (SRB) blocked it. The SRB cited concerns about his conduct in prison.
Pehalwan had completed his sentence in March 2025, but the delay forced him to file a petition in the Supreme Court. He was granted three months of furlough—a temporary release—while the matter was under review.
Court Criticizes Delhi Government’s Stance
The Delhi government, represented by Additional Solicitor General Archana Pathak Dave, argued that a life sentence means jail for the convict’s entire natural life. She claimed release could only happen through remission.
However, Senior Advocate Siddharth Mridul, representing Pehalwan, stated that the sentencing order clearly set a 20-year term, which ended on March 9, 2025. He argued there was no legal basis to keep him in jail any longer.
Supreme Court Reprimands Review Board
The court expressed strong disapproval of the Sentence Review Board for ignoring its earlier release order.
“What kind of behaviour is this?” the bench questioned, criticizing the board’s decision to hold Pehalwan in custody beyond the court’s order.
Nationwide Impact of the Ruling
This judgment may lead to the release of several convicts across India who:
- Received fixed-term life sentences
- Have already completed their sentence
- Remain in jail due to bureaucratic or procedural delays
The ruling reinforces the importance of following sentencing orders and protecting the legal rights of convicts who have completed their punishment.
The Supreme Court’s verdict on fixed-term life imprisonment is a strong reminder that justice must not be delayed. The decision not only frees Sukhdev Pehalwan but also brings hope to others waiting for rightful release.
