In law of evidence dying declaration is an exception to hearsay which to be
exercised by courts very carefully as it could convict the accused without
following the due process of fair trial.[1] This theory is based on traditional
philosophy that the dying person has no fear of truth and not want to meet the
creator with a lie on the lips. Based on legal maxim "nemo moriturus praesumitur
mentire"[2] means, that a man will not meet his maker with a lie in his mouth.
The emotional and psychological intensity of facing imminent death creates an
environment where truth prevails.[3]
The paper aims to examine the merits of the dying declaration specially when the
statement is woman's last words admitted as relevant fact in issue, and
accepting the testimony as corroborative evidence leading to conviction. It
seeks to understand how the judges appreciate evidence and value of such
statements. Courts applying their judicial mind have deviated from the
traditional rule taking a contrary view. The law of evidence in India where such
solitary witness who is victim and also often where it is a single piece of
substantial evidence, section 32 (1) of the Indian evidence act, 1872, defines
dying declaration which is admitted as relevant facts written or verbal used as
corroborative evidence to ascertain the truth.[4]
The paper acknowledges that there is always two sides of every case and analyse
the tests applied to understand the verity of the such dying declaration and
conundrums where such statement are given to third person such as magistrate or
certified by a doctor where the rule of caution is to be exercised and when
there are multiple dying declarations in such instances what are the test to be
applied when treating such statements as conclusive and important piece of
evidence.
Issues to be considered in judgements where the courts overlooked possibilities
where the dying declaration could be tainted.
Research Question.
- "Rule of First Opportunity" Whether there is reasonable doubt to believe the dying declaration was led by someone?[5] Even court have reproduced eleven factors to determine its weightage.
- Time taken to file the F.I.R (first information report).
- Examination of the person who recorded dying declaration is Essential.
- Two possibilities - Benefit of doubt to be always given to accused.[6]
- The character of the solitary witness should be of sterling quality and caliber.[7]
Should the person's last words should be considered as gospel truth?
Different ways to appreciating dying declarations.[8]
- Signs & Gestures.
- Oral and written.
- Incomplete dying declaration.
- Who can record dying declaration.
Introduction
In legal proceedings, evidence holds utmost importance in ensuring justice and
reaching to conclusion and granting relief to the aggrieved. The evidence law is
a procedural law and also Lex Fori. In cases of serious offices as murder or
where death occurred of a victim as a result of manslaughter, in Indian law of
evidence the statements made by the deceased and in this article more
specifically the victim is a woman and her last words carry substantial weight
as admissible evidence and becomes sole testimony for the conviction of the
accused.[9]
The statements made which narrate the cause of death or
circumstances in act and series of transactions that the death is caused. The
traditional way of believing is based on legal maxim "nemo moriturus praesumitur
mentire"[10] The person dying has no reason to lie at the time of meeting his
maker one doesn't want to die with a lie on his lips.[11] However it is
necessary to prove the person who gave dying declaration actually died because
of the person who is accused on trial.[12]
The Purpose of this article is to see
whether her last words could always be considered as Gospel Truth and what tests
would the courts apply when the general rule of evidence says the serious the
crime the burden of prove is to given as beyond reasonable doubt. In the paper
would also analyse the provision that deals with dying declaration which is
section 32 (1) of the Indian Evidence Act 1872 with the help of significant case
laws and recent judgements, as the aforementioned section departs from the
general rule as the maker of the statement as last words cannot be cross
examined to check the veracity of the allegations made on the accused.
When
dying declaration is the only admission that is replied upon for conviction, the
purpose of the article is to understand what are the test that are involved and
how do courts decide when be lenient and when to be strict while considering
dying declaration as the basis of the sole conviction which is made in various
way such as orally, in writing, or by their actions and inasmuch as who is the
person to whom the dying declaration is made.[13]
Dying declaration is not been defined in any statute expressly. In India, dying
declaration is admissible in both criminal and civil cases, in recent times.
Initially dying declarations was more discusses in the realm of criminal
jurisprudence. This paper will highlight the history and origin of the
concept.[14] The current position of the law in India discussing some recent
judgement and the test the judges apply in order to render justice and the
essentials of the application in common law practice.
Background & History.
Whenever there is a suit or legal proceedings are initiated, the adjudication of
the matter has to considered on the general rule of best evidence, and also the
principles of natural justice which means one party gets to cross examine the
other party. Dying declarations are contrary to the general principles as the
maker of the dying declaration is no longer available for deposition and other
party doesn't get to cross examine the veracity of the statement made against
the accused.
The concept of 'Dying Declaration' in legal context was first
discussed in the case of R v. Woodcock[15], before the death of the victim he
accused of Woodcock of the crime, the court believing that under the
circumstances where a person's death is eminent and the statement made by him,
he has very little motive to lie or fabricate his statement, and the way he made
the statements appeared to be reliable and trustworthy, making an exception to
the hearsay rule. The person to whom the statement was made was the magistrate.
A dying declaration is exception to hearsay rule as the evidence lead cannot be
cross-examined, before the aforementioned case, evidence law which applies to
civil and criminal jurisprudence. In later development with the case of State v.
O'Shea[16] significant because it further established the admissibility and
importance of dying declarations in legal proceedings. The caselaw confined
dying declarations to case where death had occurred, as it recognized its
implications is civil cases and allowed the theory of dying declarations only
for criminal cases.
This was made on the basis that an accused may lie or simply
will never tell the truth making it self-serving even during their last breath
as personal liability extends to the legal representatives in civil cases. This
was later argued that making dying declaration confined to only criminal
jurisprudence has no logic as it would then come as an inference that a
particular class of people will never speak the truth and such cannot become a
principle of law, and when dying declarations can be admitted only in criminal
cases and not civil cases is no logic.
The two above case laws have laid the foundation of the concept of 'Dying
declaration' from two most prominent English law jurisdictions. In English law
dying declaration qualifies only when victim fully comprehends his eminent death
and such statement is made under such apprehension. The admissibility is based
on the principle that impending death is eminent, as the Indian law diverges
from that principle and the dying declaration need not be made without the
expectation of impending death.[17] Dying declaration in Indian Law is covered
under Sec 32 (1)[18] 'when the statement is made by a person as to the cause of
the death, or as to any of the circumstances of the transaction which resulted
in his death...'
In the case of
Pakala Swami v. Emperor[19] the letters were
given by the deceased to his wife before going to a place where the victim was
murdered. The court admitted those letters in form of written statements as
dying declaration and when the letter was given to the wife there no
apprehension of impending death. The statute doesn't specify in which form the
dying declaration is to be made, what is important is dying declaration should
retain the crucial factors of narrating the transactions and circumstances which
lead the victim to death.[20]
Different Ways And Procedure How The Court Appreciates Evidence
The Indian Evidence Act doesn't prescribe the different ways the dying
declaration is appreciated; therefore, the evolution of this legal concept has
largely been shaped through judicial pronouncements. Over the period, Indian
courts have interpreted and applied the provisions of the Evidence Act to
accommodate various forms of dying declarations, including verbal statements,
gestures, and even written communications. Through a series of legal precedents
and judgments, the admissibility and relevance of different modes of dying
declarations have been followed as common law practice, ensuring that the law
remains flexible to the evolving needs of justice.
This judicial evolution of
legal interpretation within the Indian legal system, wherein courts adapt and
refine legal principles to meet the demands of contemporary jurisprudence.
Before court admits the evidence based on the way it is appreciated the court
recognizes the fact that 'a dying man seldom dies' and 'truth sits upon the lips
of a dying man'[21]
Exception to the hearsay rule the court needs to first
satisfy the victim who is the sole witness to the crime, and exclusion of the
victims' statement would tend to defeat the ends of justice. Secondly, victim
should be component at the time of making the statement, the lucidity of the
victim while making the statement makes the statement worthy to be held
admissible, and under the circumstances of the case the following facts should
themselves should be relevant in the following cases where, when it relates to
cause of death, made during the course of business, the statement should not be
self-serving statement, or the statement is given as opinion as to public right
or custom or matters, or relates to existence of relationship, statement made in
will or deed relating to family, and in relating transactions made under section
13 (a)[22], a statement, whether oral or written or otherwise connected to
circumstances of the death of the person qualifies as
'Dying Declaration', its
relevance is placed in victims anticipation of death, regardless of suit or
legal proceedings involved.
Nonetheless, if the victim survives the statement
doesn't become irrelevant but cannot be admitted under section 32, and can be
admitted under section 157[23] of the Indian evidence act to contradict,
corroborate, impeach, or confirm the credibility of the statement made by the
victim.[24]
Gestures and Signs
In the case of
Queen-Empress v. Abdullah[25], the appellant stood accused of
murdering Dulari, a prostitute, by slashing her throat with a razor. Dulari was
discovered one morning with her throat slit and was promptly taken to the police
station and then to the dispensary. Despite her severe injuries, Dulari remained
alive until the morning. The post-mortem report indicated severe cuts to her
windpipe and the anterior wall of her gullet. While at the police station,
Dulari, though unable to speak, remained conscious and communicated through
gestures and signs.
The magistrate, in the presence of a sub-inspector,
questioned her regarding her assailant. Although unable to vocalize, Dulari
conveyed her responses through hand movements. When the magistrate inquired
specifically about Abdullah, Dulari affirmed his involvement with a gesture.
Furthermore, when asked about the weapon used, Dulari indicated affirmatively
towards a razor. The magistrate duly recorded Dulari's dying declaration, which
was admitted as evidence in Abdullah's prosecution.
In a recent judgement of
Manjunath v State of Karnataka[26] the court cautioned
such signs and gestures could be prone to tutoring, prompting, or imagination,
court needs to also see the people present during its recording, making it
challenging to rule out any influence on the statement's authenticity.[27] The
court also reiterated Irfan@Naka v. State of U.P[28] and court must ask
questions while dealing with dying declarations and the gamut of consideration,
it was observed that questions regarding the identity of the person who recorded
the dying declaration, its accuracy, and identity of individual when declaration
was recorded, all of it is not certain which raises doubt about the authenticity
of such dying declaration.[29]
Oral and written
When the victim names the accused to person present, orally or in writing by any
of them then such statement is also admitted as dying declaration. However, the
victim may also dispose the hearsay evidence is no evidence and yet as dying
declaration it is admissible. Statements made in conscious state, the court
should be satisfied that the statement oral or written should be with free will,
in conscious state and statement should satisfy court to be lucid. In case of
Amar Singh V. State of Rajasthan[30]
The victims' mother and brother gave the
evidence, that the victim has orally made submission month prior to the incident
of the that the victim husband used to taunt and harass the victim that she came
from the poor family and demanded dowry. The court referring to Pakala Swami v.
Emperor[31] and upheld Lord Atkins opinion as the transactions which resulted on
the death of the victim were admitted accepting that they had proximate effect.
A dying declaration can be made to anyone, even the statements made to police
are not admissible but law of evidence makes no distinction between dying
declaration given to the police officer and one recorded by a magistrate. Among
all classes of people, the person who is the witness or recorder of the dying
declaration, magistrate and doctors are the most reliable sources, presumably,
as the party corroborating the dying declaration of the victim has not
self-serving interest. The essentials for applicability no particular form of
recording the statement is prescribed, and so the that a statement recorded by a
police officer or close relative requires more scrutiny.
While their testimony
can provide context and additional information, courts typically scrutinize such
statements carefully, especially if there's a familial relationship between the declarant and the affirming relative. This cautious approach is necessary to
ensure that the dying declaration is reliable and free from undue influence.
Instead, courts often seek corroborating evidence or testimony from impartial
witnesses to support the veracity of the declaration. By doing so, the judicial
process aims to uphold fairness and integrity in determining the validity and
admissibility of dying declarations as evidence.
In the case of
Koli Chunilal Savji v. State of Gujarat[32] the Supreme Court
highlighted the need for careful scrutiny of dying declarations, especially when
they are affirmed by relatives of the deceased. The court emphasized that while
relatives may provide valuable information, their testimony alone may not be
sufficient to establish the authenticity of the dying declaration. Instead, the
court emphasized the importance of corroborating evidence and independent
witnesses to validate the declaration's credibility. This judgment underscores
the principle that the affirmation of a dying declaration by relatives is not
conclusive and must be evaluated in light of other corroborative evidence to
ensure fairness and justice in legal proceedings.
Incomplete Dying Declarations.
The legal position regarding incomplete dying declarations varies depending on
the jurisdiction and specific circumstances of the case. In general, an
incomplete dying declaration refers to a statement made by a person who is
believed to be on the verge of death but is unable to provide a full or coherent
account of the events due to their physical condition or other constraints.
Courts typically assess incomplete dying declarations with caution, recognizing
that the declarant's incapacitation may limit the reliability or
comprehensiveness of the statement. However, such declarations may still be
admitted as evidence under certain conditions, particularly if they contain
relevant details or provide insights into the circumstances surrounding the
incident.
In Indian jurisprudence, incomplete dying declarations have been considered by
courts, and their admissibility and weight have been subject to scrutiny. One
such case is the landmark judgment of Laxman v. State of Maharashtra[33] where
the Supreme Court of India examined the issue of incomplete dying declarations.
The Victim had been set on fire, due to the severity of her injuries she was
unable to provide further details or complete her statement. Despite its
incompleteness, the trial court admitted her dying declaration as evidence
against the accused.
Analysing the principles of admissibility of dying declarations, the court
emphasized the importance of victim's clarity and lucidity of mind at the time
of making the statement. While an incomplete statement may raise doubts abouts
its reliability, it can still be considered unless material facts are
corroborated with the evidence, Supreme court upheld the admissibility of such
incomplete statement provided it contains crucial information identifying the
accused and it needs to consistent with other evidence when corroborated.
Test To Be Applied Before The Conviction Is Made Solely On The Basis Of Dying Declaration
In many legal systems, including India, a conviction cannot be solely based on a
statement without further corroboration or application of tests to ascertain its
reliability. This principle is especially applicable to dying declarations,
where the declarant is unavailable for cross-examination and may not have the
opportunity to clarify or corroborate their statement.
In the absence of corroboration or reliability tests, a conviction based solely
on a dying declaration may be deemed unsafe or unreliable. Courts often require
additional evidence or circumstances to support the dying declaration and ensure
that the conviction is based on a solid foundation of evidence.
Therefore, while dying declarations can be significant evidence in criminal
cases, they are typically not sufficient on their own to secure a conviction
without further corroboration or reliability tests to establish their veracity.
"Rule of First Opportunity"
The "Rule of First Opportunity" in dying declarations refers to the principle
that the first person who has the opportunity to record or witness the dying
declaration should do so promptly and accurately. This rule emphasizes the
importance of preserving the dying declaration in its original form without any
alteration or influence from subsequent individuals. It underscores the need for
immediate recording of the dying declaration by a competent authority, such as a
magistrate or a doctor, on whom the high level of reliance is placed.
This
ensures that the declaration is accurately captured while the declarant is still
in a conscious and coherent state. The Rule of First Opportunity serves to
prevent potential tampering or manipulation of the dying declaration by
subsequent individuals who may have an interest in the case. By recording the
declaration promptly and without delay, the integrity of the evidence is
preserved, and its reliability is enhanced.
Failure to adhere to the Rule of First Opportunity may raise doubts about the
authenticity of the dying declaration and could affect its admissibility and
weight in legal proceedings. Therefore, courts often place significant
importance on compliance with this rule when evaluating the reliability and
probative value of dying declarations.
In case of
Paniben v. State of Gujarat[34] decided by the Supreme Court of India
emphasized the importance of promptly recording dying declarations by the first
person who has the opportunity to do so. The Court held that dying declarations
should be recorded without delay and in the presence of witnesses to ensure
their reliability and authenticity. The Court further stated that any delay in
recording the dying declaration could raise doubts about its veracity and may
render it inadmissible as evidence. It emphasized that the Rule of First
Opportunity must be strictly adhered to in order to preserve the integrity of
dying declarations and prevent any potential tampering or manipulation.
This case underscores the significance of the Rule of First Opportunity in
Indian jurisprudence and highlights its role in ensuring the reliability and
admissibility of dying declarations in legal proceedings when dying declaration
becomes the basis of sole conviction.
Time taken to file the F.I.R (first information report)
The time taken to file the First Information Report (FIR) before giving a dying
declaration can be a crucial factor in legal proceedings, especially in cases
where the delay may impact the reliability or credibility of the dying
declaration.
Here are some key points to consider:
- Promptness of Filing FIR: Courts generally expect the FIR to be filed promptly after the commission of the offense. A delay in filing the FIR may raise questions about its authenticity and the reliability of the information contained therein. However, the exact timeframe considered "prompt" may vary depending on the circumstances of each case.
- Impact on Dying Declaration: If there is a significant delay between the commission of the offense and the filing of the FIR, it may affect the weight given to the dying declaration made thereafter. Courts may scrutinize the circumstances surrounding the delay and assess whether it could have influenced the declarant's state of mind or the accuracy of their statement.
- Explanation for Delay: The prosecution may be required to provide a reasonable explanation for any delay in filing the FIR. Valid reasons for delay, such as the declarant's medical condition or logistical constraints, may mitigate concerns about the reliability of the dying declaration.
- Admissibility: Despite a delay in filing the FIR, a dying declaration may still be admissible if it is found to be reliable and consistent with other evidence in the case. However, the delay and its impact on the credibility of the dying declaration will likely be scrutinized by the court.
In
State of Maharashtra v. Suresh[35] stated the significance of promptness in
filing the FIR and its impact on the reliability of the dying declaration. The
Court held that while a delay in filing the FIR may not necessarily render the
dying declaration inadmissible, it could affect its weight and credibility. The
Supreme Court observed that a prompt FIR lends credibility to the prosecution's
case and provides a contemporaneous record of the events. Conversely, a delay in
filing the FIR may raise doubts about the reliability of the evidence, including
the dying declaration. While the Court acknowledged that there may be valid
reasons for a delay in filing the FIR, it emphasized the need for the
prosecution to provide a reasonable explanation for the delay. The Court further
highlighted the importance of corroborative evidence to support the dying
declaration, especially in cases where there is a delay in filing the FIR and
its impact on the admissibility and credibility of the evidence presented in
court.[36]
Examination Of The Person Who Recorded Dying Declaration Is Essential
Examination of the person who recorded the dying declaration is often considered
essential in legal proceedings, particularly in cases where the dying
declaration serves as a significant piece of evidence. The person who recorded
the dying declaration can authenticate the document or statement, confirming its
accuracy and veracity. Their testimony provides assurance to the court regarding
the reliability of the dying declaration. The individual who recorded the dying
declaration can testify about the circumstances under which it was made. This
includes details such as the victims mental state, physical condition,
surroundings, and any external influences present at the time.
Importantly, Cross-examination of the person who recorded the dying declaration
allows the opposing party to challenge their testimony and probe for any
inconsistencies or discrepancies. This helps in testing the credibility and
reliability of the evidence. Overall, examination of the person who recorded the
dying declaration plays a crucial role in ensuring the integrity, reliability,
and admissibility of the evidence presented to the court. It helps establish the
authenticity of the declaration and provides clear and unbiased admissibility of
such dying declaration.
One significant case law that underscores the importance of examining the person
who recorded the dying declaration is Kake Singh v. State of Rajasthan[37],
decided by the Supreme Court of India. Supreme Court emphasized the necessity of
examining the person who recorded the dying declaration to establish its
authenticity and reliability. The Court held that the testimony of the person
who recorded the dying declaration is essential to confirm the circumstances
under which it was made and to ensure adherence to proper procedure. The Court
further observed that the failure to examine the person who recorded the dying
declaration may cast doubt on its authenticity and may affect its admissibility
and weight as evidence. Therefore, the Court stressed the importance of
examining the recorder to establish the credibility and veracity of the dying
declaration. This case underscores the significance of examining the person who
recorded the dying declaration in legal proceedings and highlights its role in
ensuring the integrity and reliability of the evidence presented to the court.
Two possibilities - Benefit of doubt to be always given to accused.
The "two possibility" test in dying declarations refers to a legal principle
used to assess the reliability and credibility of such statements. Essentially,
it involves evaluating whether there are only two possible explanations for the
statement made in the dying declaration.
Firstly, whether there are only two plausible explanations for the content of
the dying declaration. One explanation is that the statement accurately reflects
the truth about the events described by the declarant. The other explanation is
that the statement is false, fabricated, or influenced by external factors.
Secondly, In the absence of other Explanations and if there are no alternative
explanations that account for the statement's content, apart from truthfulness
or fabrication, it strengthens the reliability and credibility of the dying
declaration. In essence, the two-possibility test helps courts assess the
reliability of dying declarations by evaluating the likelihood that the
statement accurately reflects the declarant's true perceptions and experiences.
If the test suggests that truthfulness is the only plausible explanation for the
statement, it enhances the probative value of the dying declaration as evidence
in legal proceedings. However, if other reasonable explanations exist, such as
coercion or confusion, the reliability of the dying declaration may be called
into question.
In the case of
Dhanpal v. State[38] the court held that if two reasonable
conclusions are possible on the basis of the evidence on record which
contradicts each other as dying declarations, the appellate court should not
disturb the finding of acquittal recorded by the trial court.
The character of the solitary witness should be of sterling quality and caliber.
In cases of dowry death of crimes against women, it is generally difficult to
find any corroborative evidence except the victim herself, and statements made
by such victim is sufficient for conviction. In the case of Reena Devi v State
of Haryana[39] the court said "the statement of prosecutrix cannot be treated as
gospel truth and the Court has to see that she is a witness of sterling quality.
If the statement of prosecutrix is held to be gospel truth and Courts are bound
to hold someone guilty just because there is allegation by prosecutrix, it would
be travesty of justice and there would be no need to conduct trial. The
statement recorded by Magistrate under Section 164 or police authorities under
Section 161 of CrPC[40] would be sufficient to put a person behind the bars and
hold him guilty.
Keeping in view of the High Court upheld the judgment of the
trial court saying that the findings recorded by trial court are well reasoned,
fair, reasonable and cannot be termed as perverse in any manner, thus, it does
not warrant interference.[41] The Court said that the appellant just to cover up
delay has alleged that she was threatened by respondent and due to fear she did
not disclose about alleged incident to her parents. The Trial Court has rightly
concluded that there is unexplained delay in registration of FIR and it appears
that FIR was registered to spite the boy side at a later point of time just
because respondent refused to marry appellant.[42]
Conclusion
In conclusion, the law of evidence recognizes dying declarations as an exception
to the hearsay rule, acknowledging the unique circumstances under which they are
made and their potential significance in legal proceedings. However, while dying
declarations carry weight as admissible evidence, they must be approached with
caution, especially considering their potential to impact the outcome of a trial
and the rights of the accused. The principle that "persons last words should not
always be considered as gospel truth" underscores the need for careful scrutiny
and assessment of dying declarations, taking into account various factors such
as the declarant's mental state, the circumstances surrounding the statement,
and the presence of corroborating evidence.
Shedding light on the evolution of the concept of dying declarations in Indian
jurisprudence, tracing its origins from English common law principles to its
current application under the Indian Evidence Act, 1872. Through an analysis of
significant case laws and legal precedents, the paper has explored the
complexities and challenges associated with dying declarations, including issues
related to reliability, completeness, and the admissibility of different forms
of statements.
Several key principles and tests have emerged from the examination of dying
declarations, including the "two possibility" test, the "Rule of First
Opportunity," and the importance of corroborative evidence. These principles
serve as guiding principles for courts when assessing the credibility and
admissibility of dying declarations, ensuring that justice is served while
upholding the rights of the accused.
Overall, while dying declarations play a crucial role in the administration of
justice, their use must be balanced with the principles of fairness,
reliability, and due process. By adhering to established legal principles and
applying rigorous scrutiny to dying declarations, courts can ensure that justice
is served equitably and uphold the integrity of the legal system.
End-Notes:
- Vepa P. Sarathi, Law of Evidence (6th edn, 2006) 75.
- Idaho v. Wright, 497 U.S. 805, 820 (1990).
- Aviva A Orenstein, 'Her Last Words: Dying Declarations and Modern Confrontation Jurisprudence' (2010) Articles by Maurer Faculty 6.
- Malvika Bisht, 'A Study on Dying Declaration and Its Importance' (2021) 4 Intl J.L. Mgmt. & Human. 710.
- Irfan@Naka v. State of U.P., 2023 SCC OnLine SC 1060, decided on 23-08-2023.
- Dhanpal v. State., (2009) 10 SCC 401.
- Rai Sandeep@Deepu alias Dipu v. State (NCT of Delhi)., 2012 8 SCC 21.
- Sonia Balhara, 'Dying Declaration in India' (2022) 2 Law Essentials J 187.
- A detailed Study on Dying Declaration under Law of Evidence, JCLJ (2021) 2(1) 679.
- Supra. Note 2.
- Supra. Note 4.
- Umakant v. State of Chhattisgarh, (2014) 7 SCC 405.
- Supra. Note 5.
- Priyanka Rao & Tusti Arya, 'Nemo Moriturus Proesumitur Mentiri: Dying Declaration in India' [2023] 5 Indian J.L. & Legal Rsch 1.
- (1789) 1 Leach 500.
- 105 A.2d 833, 16 N.J.
- Swati Thapa & Isha, 'Dying Declaration' (2018) 1 Int'l J.L. Mgmt. & Human. 129.
- Indian Evidence Act of 1872.
- 1939 41 BOMLR 428.
- Supra. Note 5.
- B Lakshmi Narayana, 'Recording of Dying Declarations' (2017) Workshop 25-26.
- The Indian Evidence Act, 1872., Section 13.
- The Indian Evidence Act, 1872., Section 157.
- Supra. Note 21.
- (1885)ILR 7ALL385.
- 2023 LiveLaw (SC) 961.
- Suraj Kumar, 'Examination Of Person Who Recorded Dying Declaration Essential: Supreme Court' (11 July 2023) LiveLaw.in http://www-livelaw-in./top-stories/supreme-court-guidelines-on-dying-declarations-and-eyewitness-testimonies-241838?infinitescroll=1.
- Supra. Note 6..
- Supra. Note 28.
- 2010 (9) SCC 64.
- Supra. Note 19.
- (2000)4GLR3277.
- (2002) 6 SCC 710.
- (1992) 2 SCC 474.
- (2000) 1 SCC 471.
- Id.
- Supp SCC 25, AIR 1982, and (1981) SCC (Cri).
- Supra. Note 7.
- 2022 SCC Online P&H 2591.
- The Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973.
- Kriti Kumar, 'Statement of rape victim cannot be treated as gospel truth to convict an accused; Punjab & Haryana High Court upholds order of acquittal by trial court' (10 July 2022) LiveLaw.in http://www-livelaw-in./statement-of-rape-victim-cannot-be-treated-as-gospel-truth-to-convict-an-accused-punjab-haryana-high-court-upholds-order-of-acquittal-by-trial-court..
- Id.
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