SC lays down 4-factor test to avoid undue sympathy in sentencing

The Supreme Court of India has established a four-factor test to ensure that sentencing in criminal cases avoids undue sympathy and adheres to the principles of justice. The Court emphasized that leniency in punishment, such as opting for monetary compensation instead of imprisonment, could compromise the integrity of the justice system. This ruling seeks to maintain a balance between compassion and accountability in judicial decisions, reinforcing the importance of proportionality in sentencing. The decision comes in light of various cases where courts have leaned towards more lenient sentences, raising concerns about the potential for undermining the rule of law. The four-factor test will encourage judges to consider the severity of the crime, the impact on victims, the broader societal implications, and the need for deterrence when determining appropriate penalties. This move is seen as a significant step towards ensuring that justice is not only done but is also perceived to be done, thereby enhancing public trust in the judicial process.