SC Upholds Family Members’ Testimony in Dowry Death Cases: Rejects Doubts on Interested Witnesses

In a significant ruling, the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India has upheld the credibility of evidence provided by family members of deceased individuals in cases of dowry death, dismissing doubts raised on their status as interested witnesses.

The Division Bench comprising Justice Dipankar Datta and Justice SVN Bhatti emphasized the pivotal role of family members as witnesses, stating, “If the evidence of the family members in a case of dowry death is to be discarded on the ground that they are interested witnesses, we wonder who would be the reliable witness to testify for bringing the culprit to book.”

The case in question revolves around the unnatural demise of a woman within seven years of her marriage. Her husband and in-laws faced trial for various offenses including Sections 302, 498A, and 201 of the Indian Penal Code along with provisions of the Dowry Prohibition Act. While acquitted by the Trial Court, the husband was convicted under Section 498A by the High Court, prompting the State to challenge the decision.

The State contended that the High Court erred in not presuming dowry death, citing evidence of cruelty inflicted upon the deceased due to dowry demands. Conversely, the defense argued insufficient material and raised doubts on the credibility of interested witnesses.

Upon examination, the Supreme Court noted evidence pointing towards the woman’s suicide following harassment over dowry. It vehemently rejected doubts on the credibility of family members, asserting their critical role in unveiling the truth.

The Court, aligning with precedent, remitted the case to the Sessions Court for the trial of the husband alone. While confirming the family members’ acquittal, it upheld the husband’s conviction under Section 498A and set aside the sentence based on incorrect facts. Furthermore, the Court remitted the case to the Trial Court to continue the trial from the stage of defense evidence.

This landmark judgment reaffirms the significance of family members’ testimony in dowry death cases and underscores the judiciary’s commitment to delivering justice in such sensitive matters.