The criminal justice system in India is a complex interplay of procedural laws, institutional frameworks, and judicial interpretation. Despite constitutional safeguards and a well- established legal structure, the criminal investigation and trial processes are often marred by systemic inefficiencies, procedural delays, police brutality, custodial deaths, and misuse of prosecutorial discretion.

The criminal justice system in India—anchored in the CrPC, IPC, and Evidence Act now replaced by BNNS, BNS and BSA —is constitutionally designed to ensure fair and speedy trials. However, systemic deficiencies such as custodial torture, prolonged under trial detention, police insensitivity, and political interference frequently compromise this aim.

This paper critically examines each stage—from FIR and investigation to trial and appeal— highlighting judicial safeguards and identifying persistent gaps. Drawing on key recent rulings, including bail jurisprudence in UAPA/NDPS cases and courts intervening in police lapses, this exegesis suggests targeted reforms to align India’s criminal process with constitutional morality and international standards.