Report No. 78

3.10. Arrests during agitation.-

On occasions as a result of some agitation, hundreds and even thousands of persons defy the law and court arrest. At times like these, there is a sudden spurt in the number of under-trial prisoners. Many of such persons who deliberately defy the law and court arrest do so as a symbolic measure. It is plain that most of them would not offer bail and thus ask to be released pending their trial. Sometimes these persons are, as a result of Government decision, released without being put on trial. In case of trial, the sentence which is ultimately imposed upon them is generally of a nominal nature. It is desirable that they should be put up for trial soon after their arrest, so that the jails do not remain congested with these under-trial prisoners.