Witnesses should be treated with importance: SC judge

Witnesses have not been treated with the kind of importance they deserve but the situation is improving now, Supreme Court judge Justice Madan B Lokur today said.
Inaugurating a 'Vulnerable Witness Deposition Complex' at Tis Hazari court here, Justice Lokur said that "in most cases, witnesses have got no stake. They may be just an eyewitness or a part of the investigation. They have no gain or loss in most cases. But still they are not treated properly."
The deposition complex has been set up to provide separate space for vulnerable witnesses like children and sexual abuse witnesses or victims, to depose freely, without fear and humiliation.

This complex is equipped with a separate entrance, waiting area, pantry and a video link to the court so that witnesses can depose without facing the accused or public.
Delhi High Court Chief Justice G Rohini, addressing the event, said testimonies of the witnesses form essential ingredients in a criminal trial.
"The role of victim in a criminal trial can never be lost sight of. Since their testimonies establish the guilt of the accused, it is imperative for justice to be done, to ensure protection of witnesses and victims," she said.
HC judges Justices Gita Mittal and R K Gauba addressed the event, which was also attended by District and Sessions judges Rekha Rani and A K Chawla and other trial court judges.