The Supreme Court on Friday made a significant ruling regarding a murder case in Tamil Nadu, shedding light on serious misconduct by police officials and the resulting miscarriage of justice. In a scathing judgment, the Court condemned the Tamil Nadu police for tampering with witnesses and ordered a thorough investigation by the Tamil Nadu Director General of Police (DGP).

The case in question drew the attention of the apex court due to alarming reports of police officials tutoring witnesses before their testimonies in court. The Court expressed deep concern over what it termed as a "gross misuse of power" by the police machinery. Such actions not only undermine the integrity of the legal process but also erode public trust in law enforcement agencies.

The bench of Justices Abhay S Oka and Pankaj Mithal highlighted the shocking nature of police interference in the judicial process. They underscored that the police cannot be allowed to manipulate or influence witnesses, a practice that strikes at the very core of fair trial principles. Moreover, the Court expressed surprise and disappointment over the oversight of these critical issues by both the trial court and the Madras High Court during their respective proceedings.

Upon reviewing trial court records, the Supreme Court found compelling evidence that witnesses were coached by the police on how to provide testimony in a particular manner. This unethical practice, conducted within the confines of a police station, raised serious doubts about the credibility and reliability of the witnesses' statements. The Court rightly pointed out that such "teaching" sessions could unduly influence witness testimonies, especially when the witnesses are already inclined or interested parties in the case.

Consequently, the Supreme Court quashed the verdicts of the High Court and the trial court that had previously convicted and sentenced two individuals in connection to the 2007 murder case. The Court emphasized that convictions based on testimonies of witnesses who were potentially tutored by the police cannot stand in the eyes of justice.

Case: Manikandan vs. State Rep by Inspector of Police,

CRIMINAL APPEAL NO. 1609 OF 2011.

Click to read/download judgment.