GS-2Editorials04 September 2026indianexpress.com

Presumed guilty, SIR’s spreading stain

The article critically examines a specific legal provision or policy, referred to as 'SIR,' which reportedly reverses the burden of proof, leading to individuals being 'presumed guilty' rather than innocent until proven otherwise. It highlights the detrimental impact of this provision on fundamental rights, principles of natural justice, and the rule of law, discussing its widespread negative consequences across various aspects of society.

The article critically examines a specific legal provision or policy, referred to as 'SIR,' which reportedly reverses the burden of proof, leading to individuals being 'presumed guilty' rather than innocent until proven otherwise. It highlights the detrimental impact of this provision on fundamental rights, principles of natural justice, and the rule of law, discussing its widespread negative consequences across various aspects of society.

Exam linkage

GS Paper II: Indian Constitution—fundamental rights, significant provisions and basic structure. Structure, organization and functioning of the Judiciary, judicial review. Government policies and interventions and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

Syllabus mapping

Indian Polity & GovernanceFundamental RightsJudiciary & Judicial ReviewResources Industrial LocationStatutory Quasi Judicial BodiesLiberalization Industrial Policy

This topic appears in Mains

Questions on Indian Polity & Governance come up regularly in GS papers. Practice writing an answer — and see exactly what earns marks.

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