Supreme Court of India acquitted two men, Avtar Singh and Sohan Lal, who were accused in a rape case. The apex court observed that there was insufficient evidence brought on record to establish their connection with the alleged offense.

The incident in question occurred on 22nd July 1996, when the prosecutrix claimed that she was forcibly taken away by Avtar Singh, who then raped her after making her unconscious. Subsequently, Gian Singh and Sohan Lal were also accused of raping her on separate occasions. The prosecutrix further asserted that she was raped repeatedly for three days and was threatened with a knife during the ordeal.

While the Trial Court acquitted Gian Singh, it convicted Avtar Singh and Sohan Lal under Section 342 and 376(2)(g) of the Indian Penal Code. The Punjab and Haryana High Court upheld the Trial Court's decision.

However, the bench of Justices Hima Kohli and Rajesh Bindal at the Supreme Court noted that the prosecutrix's version of events was disbelieved by the trial court. The acquittal of Gian Singh played a crucial role in breaking the chain of events as narrated by the prosecutrix, leading to doubts about the credibility of her entire account.

The Supreme Court also highlighted some significant inconsistencies in the prosecution's case. It noted that the room where the prosecutrix claimed to have been detained and raped was situated in an under-construction haveli owned by Gian Singh, with laborers working there throughout the day. Despite this, the prosecutrix did not raise any alarm or seek help during her alleged confinement.

The court further pointed out that no external or internal injuries were found on the prosecutrix's body, including her private parts, and the medical examination suggested she was accustomed to sexual intercourse. These aspects, combined with discrepancies in witness statements, led the court to discredit the version presented by the prosecutrix.

While acknowledging the importance of victims' testimony in sexual offense cases, the bench emphasized that in this particular instance, the surrounding circumstances raised doubts about the prosecutrix's account.

As a result, the Supreme Court acquitted Avtar Singh and Sohan Lal, stressing that the prosecution had failed to present sufficient evidence to establish their guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Case details: Avtar Singh vs. State of Punjab

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