Article summary
Abstract
- Honesty serves as a cornerstone of any fair and just legal system, and its significance in Indian criminal jurisprudence is both profound and multifaceted. This paper explores how honesty manifests across various dimensions of the Indian criminal justice system—from witness testimony and judicial conduct to police investigations and prosecutorial actions. By critically examining statutory provisions, judicial pronouncements, and real-world challenges, the study highlights the pivotal role that integrity plays in ensuring equitable outcomes. It also delves into how the erosion of honesty—through perjury, biased investigations, and systemic corruption—undermines public confidence and the rule of law. The research further identifies institutional weaknesses that allow dishonest practices to persist, including delays, inadequate accountability mechanisms, and the lack of effective witness protection. Ultimately, the paper argues that for Indian criminal jurisprudence to truly uphold the ideals of justice, honesty must not only be expected from all stakeholders but also enforced through stronger legal, procedural, and ethical frameworks.