Human dignity, stemming from right to life, does not end with death penalty. In this context, throw light on various controversies surrounding capital punishment in the country.

1. Retribution & proportional punishment for heinous crimes in 'rarest of rare' cases (Bachan Singh case)
2. Act as a strong deterrence against crimes like raping minor.
3. Justice to victim who suffered heavy losses (Eg. Nirbhaya case)
4. Restores faith in criminal justice system of society.

Capital punishment - against right to life & dignity

1. Against law of modern societies based on restitution & rehabilitation.
2. Understanding aggravating & mitigating factors behind crime → societal failure (eg → childhood trauma may turn into criminal)
3. No conclusive evidence to prove its a strong deterrence.
4. UNGA recommends taking it away.

Way forward

1. Ensure fair trial, analysis of all mitigating circumstances for holistic case (SC)
2. Case to case basis followed on 'rarest of rare' doctrine.
3. Timely disposal of mercy petitions (Article 72, 161)