Failure to Put Crucial DNA Evidence Vitiates Trial: P&H High Court Sets Aside Death Penalty

The Punjab and Haryana High Court set aside the conviction and death penalty awarded in a rape and murder case, holding that the trial was vitiated due to serious procedural lapses.

The Court held that crucial incriminating evidence, including DNA, forensic, and toxicology reports, was not properly presented to the accused during examination under Section 313 of the CrPC.

It observed that such omission caused prejudice and violated the accused’s right to a fair trial.

The Court further observed that mechanically placing evidence without seeking a clear explanation undermines justice, and accordingly ordered a fresh trial from the Section 313 stage.

[State of Haryana v. Vinod]