Rakshita Mathur, DME Law School, GGSIPU
ABSTRACT
In this paper, we shall analyse the case of Chahat Khan v. State of Haryana (AIR 1972 SC 2574). Herein, various rules were set with regard to offences set in the Indian Penal Code – culpable homicide (s. 299), murder (s. 300) and grievous hurt (s. 322).
Within this paper, we will discuss the facts of the case, followed by the legal issues as well as the ratio decidendi. Furthermore, I have also analyzed the case from my perspective, with a final conclusion containing my understanding of this case. My analysis of this case has helped me in understanding the relationship between culpable homicide, murder and grievous hurt within the Indian Penal Code and their implementation in the legal system of India.
The case has been crucial when it comes to discussing mens rea, i.e. intention of the accused while the crime was being committed and the motive behind this intention. Mens rea, directly translates to ‘mental element’. Therefore, this case has held significant importance with regard to the idea and intention behind the crime.
Keywords: Murder; Homicide; Grievous Hurt; Mens Rea; Actus Reus.
