The Maharashtra government’s decision to make public servants witnesses in any crime that warrants provision of over seven years’ jail term, has caused disquiet among teachers in state-run schools.
In a bid to improve conviction rate, the state had issued a resolution in May this year, which stated that public servants would be made witnesses in the investigation and hearing of a crime case, which amounts to seven or more years of imprisonment.
The decision was also meant to ensure that witnesses do not turn hostile and are able to regularly remain present in court for hearings.