Karnataka High Court: DNA Test Can Override Presumption of Paternity

The Karnataka High Court has ruled that DNA test results can serve as conclusive evidence to dispute paternity, even under Section 112 of the Indian Evidence Act, which presumes a child born during marriage to be the husband’s.

The court clarified that while the presumption is strong, it is not irrebuttable, and scientific evidence can override it if it conclusively proves otherwise.

The court added that compelling such tests without a need for the same violates the sanctity of marriage as well as the fundamental right to privacy and dignity granted to a couple.