Case Note & Summary
The appellant, Ramu Appa Mahapatar, was convicted under Section 302 IPC for the murder of Manda, with whom he was in a live-in relationship. The prosecution's case rested primarily on extra-judicial confessions made by the appellant to PW-1 (landlord), PW-3 (brother of deceased), PW-4 (wife of PW-3), and PW-6 (acquaintance). The appellant informed PW-1 that his wife had died and went to inform her relatives. At the deceased's brother's house, he confessed to assaulting Manda after a quarrel, leading to her death. PW-1 later discovered the body and lodged an FIR. The trial court convicted the appellant, and the High Court affirmed. The Supreme Court, on appeal, examined the testimonies of the witnesses and found them consistent and credible. The court noted that the extra-judicial confession was made voluntarily and was corroborated by the discovery of the body and the circumstances. The court dismissed the appeal, upholding the conviction and life sentence.
Headnote
A) Criminal Law - Murder - Extra-Judicial Confession - Section 302 Indian Penal Code, 1860 - Credibility of Extra-Judicial Confession - The appellant was convicted for murder of his live-in partner based on extra-judicial confessions made before PW-1, PW-3, PW-4, and PW-6. The court examined the testimonies and found them consistent and credible, rejecting the appellant's contention that the confession was weak and unreliable. Held that the extra-judicial confession, being voluntary and corroborated by the discovery of the body and other circumstances, was sufficient to uphold the conviction (Paras 10-14).
Issue of Consideration
Whether the extra-judicial confession made by the appellant before multiple witnesses is credible and sufficient to sustain a conviction under Section 302 IPC.
Final Decision
Appeal dismissed. Conviction and sentence of life imprisonment under Section 302 IPC upheld.
Law Points
- Extra-judicial confession is a weak piece of evidence but can be relied upon if it inspires confidence and is corroborated by other circumstances
- Credibility of witnesses in extra-judicial confession cases
- Circumstantial evidence in murder cases
