Indian Penal Code, 1860, Section 302 – Murder – Motive – The lack of motive was inconsequential when direct evidence established the crime – The appellant was convicted under Section 302 of IPC for the daylight murder. The conviction and sentence were upheld by the High Court. The prosecution’s case rested on the testimony of PW-2, an eyewitness, who saw the appellant stabbing the deceased multiple times with a knife. The appellant was caught soon after the incident with the blood-stained knife, which was forensically matched to the blood of the deceased. The prosecution established the guilt of the appellant beyond a reasonable doubt.
The defence argued that the prosecution failed to establish any motive for the appellant’s crime. However, the Court held that the absence of motive did not discredit the eyewitness testimony, which was reliable and conclusive evidence of the crime. The lack of motive was inconsequential when direct evidence established the crime.
The Court dismissed the appeal and affirmed the orders of the Trial Court and the High Court. The interim bail granted to the appellant was vacated, and he was directed to surrender before the Trial Court within four weeks to serve the remaining part of his sentence. (Para4, 5)
SUPREME COURT OF INDIA
2024 STPL(Web) 234 SC
CHANDAN Vs. STATE (DELHI ADMN.)
Criminal Appeal No.788 of 2012-Decided on 5-4-2024
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