As per case facts, a seven-year-old victim was found raped and murdered in the house of Accused No. 1, a relative, after she went missing. Accused No. 1 absconded and ... was later arrested. The trial court convicted Accused No. 1 for murder and sexual assault, sentencing him to death, and convicted Accused Nos. 2, 3, and 4 for misleading villagers. The accused appealed, alleging significant procedural lapses, including denial of effective legal aid, lack of counsel during critical stages of the trial, and insufficient time for appointed advocates to prepare. The question arose whether the trial, conducted without proper legal representation, violated the accused's right to a fair trial under the Constitution, warranting a de novo proceeding. Finally, the Court held that the trial was flawed due to the denial of effective legal assistance at crucial stages. Consequently, the judgment and all sentences were set aside, and the case was remanded for a fresh de novo trial to ensure that all accused receive proper legal representation and a fair opportunity to defend themselves, emphasizing strict adherence to legal aid guidelines.