Allahabad High Court Acquits Three Accused in 35-Year-Old Murder Case

The Allahabad High Court has recently acquitted three individuals previously convicted of a murder that took place 35 years ago. The division bench, comprising Justice Rajiv Gupta and Justice Shiv Shanker Prasad, highlighted significant doubts concerning the reliability of the dying declaration of the deceased and noted unexplained delays in filing the First Information Report (FIR).

Case Background:

• Date of Incident: August 1989
• Victim: Brother of the complainant
• Accused: Three individuals, now acquitted
• Incident Details: The deceased was returning home with the complainant and another person when the accused allegedly attacked him brutally over a prior grudge. The victim succumbed to his injuries subsequently.

High Court’s Observations:

1. Dying Declaration: The court expressed skepticism about the dying declaration, pointing out that its contents were neither read to the deceased nor to his father, thereby questioning its credibility.
2. FIR Delay: The court found an unexplained delay in registering the FIR against the accused, which raised doubts about the prosecution’s case.

Court’s Decision:

• The court acquitted the three accused due to the inconsistencies and procedural lapses identified, particularly concerning the dying declaration and the delayed FIR.
• Judges: Justice Rajiv Gupta and Justice Shiv Shanker Prasad.

Significance:

This ruling emphasizes the critical need for procedural diligence and the accurate recording of statements in criminal cases. The judgment reflects the court’s commitment to ensuring that convictions are based on reliable and uncontested evidence, maintaining the integrity of the judicial process.

Case Outcome:

• Acquittal: The three individuals previously convicted by the trial court were acquitted by the Allahabad High Court.
• Reason: Doubts regarding the dying declaration and unexplained FIR delays.

The verdict underlines the judiciary’s role in safeguarding the rights of the accused, ensuring that justice is served only when supported by credible and thoroughly scrutinized evidence.