MUNNA versus STATE OF M.P.

MUNNA versus STATE OF M.P.

Although the testimony of the prosecutrix can be sufficient to convict for rape without corroboration, if there are inherent infirmities and discrepancies, the accused is entitled to benefit of doubt; in this case, the circumstances as a whole created such doubt, warranting acquittal.

Parties
Appellant: Munna; Respondent: State of M.P.
Jurisdiction
India
Judgment Date
16 September 2014
Procedural Posture
Criminal Appeal / Appeal From Conviction by Trial Court, Confirmed by High Court, Supreme Court Decision
Outcome
Appeal allowed, conviction set aside, appellant acquitted
Legal Topics
Rape, Evidence, Benefit of Doubt
Criminal Law Rape Evidence Benefit of Doubt

Case Brief

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Parties

Munna

Appellant

State of M.P.

Respondent

Procedural Posture

Criminal Appeal / Appeal From Conviction by Trial Court, Confirmed by High Court, Supreme Court Decision

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Whether conviction under Section 376 IPC (rape) can be sustained solely on prosecutrix's testimony despite inherent infirmities
  2. 2 Evidentiary value of prosecutrix's testimony without corroboration

Ratio Decidendi

Although the testimony of the prosecutrix can be sufficient to convict for rape without corroboration, if there are inherent infirmities and discrepancies, the accused is entitled to benefit of doubt; in this case, the circumstances as a whole created such doubt, warranting acquittal.

Court Disposition

Appeal allowed, conviction set aside, appellant acquitted

Orders

  • Conviction of the appellant set aside
  • Appellant acquitted of rape charge under Section 376 IPC