From Lapses To Lessons: Evaluating Evidentiary Standards And Investigative Lapses In Child- Centric Crime - A Case Analysis Of Putai V. State Of Uttar Pradesh (2025 INSC 1042)
- IJLLR Journal
- Sep 10
- 1 min read
Dinesh Kumar T, Lovely Professional University, School of Law
ABSTRACT
This comprehensive analysis of the Supreme Court’s judgment in Putai v. State of Uttar Pradesh (2025 INSC 1042), a case concerning the brutal sexual assault and murder of a 12- year-old minor girl. The prosecution’s case rested solely on circumstantial evidence, which, upon judicial scrutiny, revealed serious procedural and evidentiary deficiencies including an inconclusive primary DNA report, a supplementary DNA report that was neither put to the accused during their examination under Section-313 of the CRPC nor supported by expert testimony, lapses in maintaining the chain of custody through evidence gathering, and unreliable dog squad tracking without proper records or corroboration. Despite the gravity of the offence, the Supreme Court underscored that suspicion, however strong, cannot substitute proof beyond reasonable doubt, leading to the acquittal of both appellants.
Notably, the Bench demonstrated a sensitive and considerate approach towards the minor victim, emphasizing that justice in such cases demands scientifically sound, timely, and procedurally flawless investigations, particularly under the framework of the POCSO Act. The judgment highlights the dual necessity of upholding due process while ensuring justice for vulnerable victims, serving as a pivotal precedent for future prosecutions. It further calls for systemic reforms in forensic evidence handling, chain of custody protocols, and specialized training for investigators and prosecutors to ensure that convictions in heinous crimes are legally tenable and procedurally beyond reproach.
