05 April 2024 Evidence >> Criminal Law   |   Murder Homicide >> Criminal Law  

In a closely watched case, the Supreme Court of India upheld the conviction of Chandan for the murder of Rakesh. The verdict hinged on the powerful eyewitness testimony of PW-2, the sister-in-law of the deceased.

On the evening of May 28, 1993, at around 8:15 PM, PW-2 provided a harrowing account of witnessing Chandan viciously stabbing Rakesh during their walk together. Despite attempts to save Rakesh, he tragically succumbed to his injuries later that night.

A post-mortem examination provided irrefutable evidence, confirming the fatal nature of the knife wounds Rakesh sustained. Adding a significant piece to the prosecution's puzzle, Chandan's apprehension on the same day in possession of a bloodstained knife proved to be a critical turning point. Forensic analysis definitively matched the blood on the knife to the deceased, leaving little room for doubt.

The defense strategy focused on the lack of an established motive for the crime. However, the court delivered a clear judgment, emphasizing that a demonstrable motive was not essential when a credible eyewitness provided a detailed account of the events. The court meticulously weighed the eyewitness testimony alongside the incriminating evidence – the bloodstained knife and the matching blood type – concluding that these elements collectively established Chandan's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

With this decisive ruling, the Supreme Court effectively upheld the initial conviction and dismissed Chandan's appeal, bringing a measure of closure to this emotional case.

Indian Penal Code, 1860    

Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973