People will obey laws if hands and legs are chopped, says Karnataka High Court

June 2, 2026

Bengaluru: The Karnataka High Court on Monday made strong remarks on rising crime and the need for stricter enforcement of laws while hearing a bail plea filed by an engineering student accused in a rape case.

Justice R. Nataraj observed that people often take the law for granted in a democracy and suggested that only severe consequences make individuals realise the importance of obeying the law. The court expressed concern over crimes being committed casually and repeatedly, stating that offenders are not being dealt with firmly enough under existing legal mechanisms.

During the hearing, the judge remarked that the law has “lost its teeth” due to weak enforcement and stressed the need for stronger deterrence to curb criminal activities. The observations came in the context of discussing the seriousness of the allegations and the broader issue of law and order.

The court’s comments have drawn attention for their sharp criticism of the perceived lack of fear of legal consequences among offenders. The bail petition remains under judicial consideration.