DNA Evidence Not Conclusive Proof In Rape Cases: Calcutta HC
DNA Evidence Not Conclusive Proof in Rape Cases: Calcutta High Court
🔹 Meaning of the Principle
DNA evidence is a powerful scientific tool that helps establish biological connection between the accused and the victim.
However, the Calcutta High Court has held that DNA evidence alone cannot be treated as conclusive or the sole basis to convict an accused in rape cases.
The Court stresses the importance of looking at the entire evidence on record, including circumstances, testimonies, and other material, not just DNA.
🔹 Judicial Reasoning
DNA Evidence Is Corroborative, Not Standalone
DNA evidence is highly reliable but only shows physical presence or biological connection.
It does not prove consent or the absence thereof, nor the context of sexual activity.
The Court insists DNA evidence should corroborate the victim’s testimony and other evidence.
Assessment of the Victim’s Testimony
The victim’s statement, description of the incident, and conduct before and after the alleged offence are crucial.
Credibility, consistency, and voluntariness of victim’s testimony are evaluated alongside DNA proof.
Possibility of Alternative Explanation
DNA presence may be explained by consensual relations, prior contact, or other innocent causes.
Court must examine whether the accused had consent or not, which DNA alone cannot determine.
Role of Circumstantial and Medical Evidence
Other evidence like injuries, medical reports, and behavior after the incident matter.
A holistic view avoids wrongful convictions based on scientific evidence alone.
🔹 Illustrative Example
DNA of the accused found on the victim’s body.
Accused claims consensual relationship.
Victim’s testimony about absence of consent is inconsistent.
Court weighs all evidence and may acquit or hold accused not guilty despite DNA match if doubt exists about consent.
🔹 Key Points
| Aspect | Explanation |
|---|---|
| DNA is scientific proof of contact | Shows biological presence but not consent or context |
| Victim’s testimony vital | Needs to be credible and consistent alongside DNA |
| Alternative explanations possible | DNA presence can have innocent explanations |
| Whole evidence must be considered | Medical, circumstantial, and testimonial evidence matter |
| Avoid wrongful convictions | Relying solely on DNA can lead to miscarriage of justice |
🔹 General Judicial Approach
Courts are cautious not to give DNA evidence overriding importance.
They emphasize proof beyond reasonable doubt, which DNA alone cannot satisfy in rape cases.
The entire factual matrix is analyzed before conviction.
🔹 Conclusion
The Calcutta High Court’s ruling underlines that while DNA evidence is important, it cannot be the sole or conclusive basis for convicting an accused in rape cases. Judicial prudence demands that DNA evidence be viewed as part of a wider evidentiary framework including testimony, medical and circumstantial evidence.
RELATED Blog
0 comments