Lucknow Court Directs Police to Register FIR Against Woman for False Rape Allegations
A special court in Lucknow has issued a significant order. The court has directed the Lucknow police to register a First Information Report against a woman. This action comes after the court acquitted a man she had accused of serious offences more than fourteen years ago.
Court Finds Evidence Unreliable and Contradictory
The court carefully examined the evidence presented during the trial. It observed that the evidence placed on record was unreliable. The evidence was also riddled with contradictions. These issues made it unsafe to sustain a conviction against the accused man.
In its detailed judgment, the court noted specific problems with the complainant's account. The statements made by the woman at different stages of the proceedings were inconsistent. Her testimony failed to inspire confidence in the court.
Prosecution Fails to Meet Mandatory Standard of Proof
The prosecution faced a critical challenge. It was unable to prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt. This standard is mandatory in all criminal trials in India. The court emphasized that without meeting this high bar, a conviction cannot stand.
During the lengthy hearing, the defence team played a crucial role. They highlighted numerous discrepancies in the complainant's statements. The defence also pointed out that medical and documentary evidence did not adequately support the prosecution's version of events.
Court Initiates Proceedings for False Evidence
Following the acquittal, the court took a further step. It ordered the initiation of proceedings against the complainant. This action falls under Section 344 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. The section deals with giving false evidence during judicial proceedings.
The court directed that notice be issued in this regard. This formal step begins the process of holding the woman accountable for her alleged false accusations.
Background of the Long-Running Case
The case has a complex history. It was originally registered in 2011 at a police station in Lucknow. The allegations involved serious charges under sections relating to rape and criminal intimidation. Provisions of the SC/ST Act were also invoked.
The trial continued for several years before reaching its conclusion. The court finally delivered its verdict after extensive proceedings. The accused man was already on bail during this period.
Court Accepts Defence Arguments and Takes Administrative Actions
The court accepted the arguments presented by the defence team. It termed the contradictions in the evidence as serious. This acceptance formed the basis for the acquittal decision.
With the acquittal complete, the court addressed administrative matters. It cancelled the personal and surety bonds of the accused man. The court also discharged the sureties from their obligations, formally closing that aspect of the case.
This ruling highlights the judicial system's commitment to thorough examination of evidence. It underscores the importance of reliable testimony in serious criminal cases.