In Brief
The State of Karnataka appealed against the High Court's acquittal of three accused persons convicted at trial for rioting, causing grievous hurt, and murder. The appellants argued that eye-witness testimony and medical evidence proved guilt. However, the Supreme Court upheld the acquittal, finding fatal discrepancies in the prosecution case: inconsistencies about the time and place of the incident, unexplained investigative delays, unnatural conduct by a key witness, and contradictory statements from multiple witnesses. These flaws meant the prosecution failed to prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt, justifying the High Court's decision.
The lawyer headnote and full judgment text are available to registered users.