The Supreme Court of India has affirmed that the right to a speedy trial is a fundamental human right, following a nearly 40-year-old case involving five police constables in Uttar Pradesh. The incident dates back to 1989, when the constables engaged in a physical altercation over food served by their canteen cook while on duty at the Kumbh Mela. The case, which involved charges of 'simple hurt', remained pending for decades, during which time two of the accused died and the state underwent bifurcation in 2000. Justice J.B. Pardiwala, presiding over the case, emphasized that prolonged delays in trials undermine a person's dignity and the essence of fair trial. The court has instructed the Allahabad High Court to compile a report on pending cases and judicial vacancies in Uttar Pradesh, highlighting the urgent need for reforms in the judicial system. The next hearing regarding the status report is scheduled for July 13, 2026.