The duration of police custody is strictly limited by law to prevent prolonged detention without trial. In most jurisdictions, a detainee must be presented before a magistrate within a specified time, such as 24 hours in India or 48 hours in the United States. Any extension beyond this initial period requires judicial approval.
These time limits ensure that investigations proceed swiftly and prevent unnecessary deprivation of liberty. Failure to comply with these time restrictions can result in legal repercussions for law enforcement and may lead to the release of the detainee.
Impact on Justice
Time-bound police custody ensures efficiency in investigations while protecting individuals from indefinite detention. This legal constraint also upholds the principles of justice and fairness, ensuring that the rights of detainees are not compromised in the name of crime prevention.