In Brief
This criminal appeal challenged the conviction of nine accused persons for murder, rioting, and arson under Sections 302/149, 436/149, 148 and 307/34 IPC. The appellants argued they were implicated solely because they were relatives of the principal accused, with no specific overt act attributed to them. The Supreme Court held that mere presence in a mob or familial relationship is insufficient for conviction; the prosecution must prove each accused's specific participation and common object. Finding no credible evidence of actual involvement, the Court acquitted all nine accused.
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