Headline
The Supreme Court of India quashes case of abetment to suicide against woman.
Summary
The Supreme Court of Indiq on 21st January, 2025, quashed criminal proceedings against Laxmi Das for abetment to suicide U/S 306 read with 107 of Indian Penal Code (IPC). The Court stated that her remarks didn’t have any direct or indirect instigation important to constitute the offence.
Key Facts
- Case Name: Laxmi Das vs. The State of West Bengal & Ors.
- Judges Name: Justice BV Nagarathna and Justice SC Sharma.
- Laxmi Das, the Appellant, was accused of abetting the suicide of her son’s lover’s by not allowing their marriage and allegedly asking her to do suicide if she could not live without him.
- The Calcutta High Court had upheld the FIR against her U/S 306 and 107 of Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Legal Insights
The Court observed:
- There was no direct or indirect instigation connected to the suicide.
- There was no mens rea to abet suicide.
- Mere disapproval of marriage or remarks did not constitute the offence of abetment.
Impact
This judgment of the Supreme Court shed light on the strict need of direct involvement and intent under Section 306 of Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Why It Matters
The ruling of the Supreme Court reaffirms the requirement for clear evidence of instigation or positive acts to constitute the charges of abetment to suicide.
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