New Delhi, Dec 09, 2025

The Supreme Court on Monday expressed strong displeasure at the Uttar Pradesh government for its prolonged failure to frame a standard operating procedure (SOP) for mandatory medical examinations of individuals detained at police stations. A bench comprising Justices K.V. Viswanathan and S.V.N. Bhatti called the delay “disappointing” and directed the state to place the SOP on record by December 31, 2025.

The case stems from a directive by the Allahabad High Court that all persons called to police stations must undergo a medical examination before leaving custody. The measure was aimed at preventing custodial violence, ensuring proper documentation of injuries, and protecting the constitutional rights of detainees. The Supreme Court had upheld the High Court’s order in February 2024 but, at the state’s request, allowed Uttar Pradesh to prepare detailed guidelines rather than follow a blanket directive, giving the government eight weeks to frame the SOP.

Despite repeated reminders and assurances, the state has failed to act. The bench highlighted that multiple deadlines were missed. In May 2024, the state claimed the SOP was in its final stages, while in February 2025, it assured the court that the SOP would be filed within a week. However, even after these promises, the only step taken was the formation of a committee, with no SOP submitted.

The court stressed that proper medical documentation at the time of release from police custody is crucial. Such documentation serves as a check against custodial abuse, ensures accountability, and protects the rights of individuals who may be vulnerable while in detention. It also provides crucial evidence in case of any complaints of maltreatment, helping to maintain public trust in law enforcement agencies.

The Supreme Court observed that the casual approach of the Uttar Pradesh government was concerning. Despite assurances, the state has repeatedly failed to comply with judicial directions. The bench emphasized that ensuring medical examinations for detainees is not just a procedural formality but a vital step to uphold human rights and prevent misuse of authority in police stations across the state.

To enforce compliance, the Supreme Court has listed the matter for January 5, 2026. The bench also directed that if the SOP is not submitted by December 31, the state home secretary must file an affidavit explaining why the undertaking made to the court was not fulfilled. The order underlines the judiciary’s insistence on strict accountability and timely action from the executive.

Legal experts note that such directives by the Supreme Court highlight the importance of procedural safeguards in policing. While police custody is a sensitive period where individuals are particularly vulnerable, clear SOPs and medical checks help ensure transparency and prevent abuse. The court’s strict notice to Uttar Pradesh is a reminder that even after repeated instructions, the state machinery is expected to act promptly in matters affecting citizens’ rights.

With the new deadline set, Uttar Pradesh is now under pressure to finalize the SOP and present it to the court. Any further delay could lead to serious consequences for state officials responsible for implementing these orders. The Supreme Court’s intervention reinforces the principle that protecting the rights of detainees is a non-negotiable responsibility of the state.

The court’s directions are a strong signal that measures to prevent custodial violence cannot be postponed indefinitely and must be implemented as per the law. By setting a firm deadline, the Supreme Court is ensuring that safeguards for police detainees are not just theoretical but actively enforced.

 Supreme Court Slams Uttar Pradesh Government Over Delay in SOP for Medical Examination of Police Detainees, Sets December 31 Deadline

The Supreme Court has pulled up the Uttar Pradesh government for not finalizing a standard operating procedure (SOP) for medical examinations of people held in police custody. The bench of Justices K.V. Viswanathan and S.V.N. Bhatti called the delay “disappointing” and asked the state to submit the SOP by December 31, 2025.

This comes after the Allahabad High Court had directed that anyone called to a police station must undergo a medical check before leaving. The move is aimed at preventing custodial violence, recording injuries, and protecting detainees’ rights. The Supreme Court had upheld this order in February 2024 but allowed the state to prepare detailed guidelines instead of blanket instructions.

Despite repeated deadlines and promises, the UP government has not filed the SOP. Earlier claims that the SOP was “almost ready” or would be submitted within a week have not been followed up. So far, the only step taken was forming a committee, with no concrete procedure in place.

The court stressed the importance of proper documentation at the time of release, saying it helps prevent abuse and ensures accountability. The bench also warned that if the SOP is not filed by December 31, the state home secretary must explain the delay to the court.

Legal experts say this move highlights the need for clear procedures to protect citizens in custody. The Supreme Court’s strict notice reminds the government that safeguarding human rights in police stations is non-negotiable and urgent. With the deadline now fixed, the state is expected to act quickly and ensure detainees are protected through proper medical checks.