Minor Discrepancies In Later Statements Don’t Undermine Credibility Of First Dying Declaration: Supreme Court

The Supreme Court upheld the conviction of a woman accused of murder, holding that when multiple dying declarations exist, the first declaration cannot be disregarded if it is found to be reliable, consistent, and duly corroborated by evidence.

The Court was hearing an appeal challenging the Gujarat High Court’s decision that had reversed the appellant’s acquittal for setting the victim ablaze. The defence contended that inconsistencies among the three dying declarations warranted the benefit of the doubt.

However, while dismissing the appeal, the Court ruled that minor discrepancies in subsequent statements do not dilute the credibility of the first declaration when it inspires confidence.

[Jemaben v State of Gujarat]