Simplified Explanation of the Judgment:
In a recent judgment dated April 24, 2024, the Patna High Court acquitted four men convicted for murder in a 2012 incident from Siwan, Bihar. The appellants were previously sentenced to life imprisonment by the Sessions Court for the alleged killing of one individual and causing injuries to two others following a dispute over fishing rights in a village pond.
The High Court observed multiple discrepancies and lapses in the prosecution's case:
The First Information Report (FIR) was not written by the informant himself.
Key medical evidence, including the post-mortem report, was missing.
The doctor who conducted the post-mortem was not brought as a witness.
Injuries reported were minor and superficial.
Independent witnesses did not support the prosecution version.
Moreover, many witnesses testified that the case might have been politically motivated, orchestrated by a local political rival of one of the appellants. The High Court found that the Trial Court had overlooked significant evidentiary gaps and inconsistencies, and hence, there was no sufficient basis to uphold the convictions.
Significance of the Judgment:
This judgment underscores the importance of solid and complete evidence in criminal trials. It serves as a reminder that conviction for serious charges like murder must rest on credible and corroborated proof. The ruling also safeguards individuals from being wrongfully convicted due to political or personal rivalries, ensuring fairness in criminal justice delivery.
Legal Issues Decided and Court's Decision:
Did the prosecution prove the murder charge beyond a reasonable doubt? ✓ No.
Whether omissions in medical and testimonial evidence invalidated the trial verdict? ✓ Yes.
Final Decision: Conviction set aside; all accused acquitted.
Case Title: Ram Awadh Kishore Prasad & Ors. Vs The State of Bihar
Case Number: Criminal Appeal (DB) No. 1031 of 2017 with Criminal Appeal (DB) No. 858 of 2017
Citation(s): 2024(4) PLJR (207)
Coram: Hon'ble Mr. Justice Ashutosh Kumar and Hon'ble Mr. Justice Khatim Reza
Advocates:
For the Appellants: Mr. Ajay Kumar Thakur and Ms. Vaishnavi Singh
For the State: Mr. Ajay Mishra, APP
Link to the Judgment: NSMxMDMxIzIwMTcjMSNO-2U8heeuSu9M=
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