A Story of Machal Lalung
Machal Lalung's story is a perfect example of what can happen if the fundamental rights given to us by the Constitution of India are not available in practice.
Machal Lalung, a resident of Assam, was only 23 years old when he was arrested. He was alleged of causing serious injuries. If found guilty, the maximum penalty under this provision is 10 years in prison. However, Machal was sent to jail where he was found mentally unstable to stand trail and was therefore sent to a mental hospital in Tejpur for treatment.
He was treated successfully and the doctors wrote twice to the jail authorities to initiate the trial. However, nobody paid any attention. He was finally released in July 2005. He was then 77 years of age. he had spent 54 years in jail and his case had never come up for hearing. He was freed when a team appointed by the National Human Rights Commission intervened, on a bail for Re 1.
Machal Lalung died two years later. Who is responsible for this?
Aneisha Sharma, a filmmaker who made the film 'Freedom at the Edge' on Lalung's life, remarks " It was a strange life that our system forced upon this innocent man."
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ReplyDeleteWell written.. however educated we seem to be.. we rarely dwell on our constitutional rights and duties.. an eye opener.. lovely Sumati
ReplyDeleteThanks Pressy
DeleteVery heart touching...Human Rights a social power untapped. An apt story to reveal it's importance.
ReplyDeleteI have never heard about this story. Thank you Sumati for bringing this up. True this is perfect example of not following the constitution.
ReplyDeleteAn eye opener for all! Unfortunately issues like Machal case are not given coverage by media and people want to remain oblivious to such stories. As an informed citizens we must pledge that no life is lost and devoid of the dignity we all deserve as human beings.
ReplyDeleteWell written article. We need to have more programs making people aware of their constitutional rights and of course a corruption-free environment.
ReplyDeleteVery important and essential aspect you've brought forward of justice system in India through this heart wrenching story. Unfortunately very less attention is paid to this part of the system. I think there is an immediate need of some action on these outdated Prison Acts about the undertrials prisoners. Perfectly compiled.
ReplyDeleteThought-provoking article.
ReplyDeleteAfter reading this article I remember a Marathi movie 'Court' which has a similar story. Machal Lalung had to languish 54 years in jail.This is very pathetic.This article compells us to think about our legal system and judiciary.
Very nice topic selection. It’s a very nicely explained blog. Very thought provoking 👍🏽
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