Kondagaon Reviews Undertrial Prisoners’ Cases, Court Infrastructure and Hit-and-Run Compensation Mechanism

June 18, 2026 : A high-level review meeting of the Undertrial Review Committee, Monitoring Cell and Hit-and-Run Compensation Committee was held in Kondagaon under the chairmanship of Principal District and Sessions Judge and Chairman of the District Legal Services Authority, Shri Khilawan Ram Rigari. The meeting took place in the Mediation Hall and was attended by senior judicial, administrative and police officials, including Additional District and Sessions Judge Vikram Pratap Chandra, Collector Ms. Nupur Rashi Panna, Superintendent of Police Pankaj Chandra, Chief Judicial Magistrate Reshma Bairagi Patel, District Legal Services Authority Secretary Gayatri Sai, and representatives from the prison, prosecution and public works departments.

During the Undertrial Review Committee meeting, members examined cases involving prisoners who have remained in custody for prolonged periods, those who have been granted bail but are unable to fulfil bail conditions, and inmates who have already spent a substantial portion of the maximum sentence applicable to their alleged offences. Judge Rigari directed the concerned authorities to ensure prompt action in eligible cases and provide relief in accordance with the law. The committee also emphasized safeguarding the rights of prisoners and improving their access to justice. Discussions were also held regarding the case of Shankar Mahto and preparations for the Special Lok Adalat to be organized by the Supreme Court on August 21, 22 and 23.

The Monitoring Cell reviewed matters related to judicial infrastructure in the district. The Principal District Judge instructed the district administration to expedite the process for commencing construction of the new District and Sessions Court building. The meeting also assessed the progress of residential facilities being developed for judicial officers and court staff. In addition, deliberations focused on establishing a fully equipped, air-conditioned victim-friendly room with child-friendly facilities and attached washrooms for victims, their families and children visiting the court premises.

The Hit-and-Run Committee discussed measures to ensure timely compensation for victims and families affected by road accidents involving unidentified vehicles. Officials reviewed the compensation claim process for cases involving death or grievous injury and directed the police and transport departments to prepare and submit all required documents to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate without delay. The meeting also stressed the need for coordinated awareness campaigns and outreach programmes to ensure that eligible victims are informed about available compensation schemes and legal remedies.