Tainted investigation and evidentiary lapses do not defeat conviction where reliable evidence proves guilt beyond reasonable doubt.

A conviction under Section 302 IPC was challenged on the basis of alleged tainted investigation and evidentiary infirmities, but the Court treated the prosecution evidence as reliable because material witnesses consistently supported the motive and prior threat, and an independent witness corroborated the surrounding circumstances. It held that investigation lapses, standing alone, do not justify acquittal where guilt is otherwise proved beyond reasonable doubt. Only a dishonest or guided investigation causing serious prejudice can undermine the conviction, while mere omissions or irregularities cannot displace otherwise credible evidence. The concurrent findings below were found justified on the evidence, and the conviction and sentence were upheld.

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Issues: Whether the appellant's conviction under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 could be interfered with on the ground of alleged tainted investigation and evidentiary infirmities in the prosecution case.

Analysis: The material witnesses consistently supported the prosecution version regarding the motive arising from non-payment of sale consideration for a buffalo and the prior threat to the deceased. Their testimony was not effectively challenged in cross-examination. An independent witness corroborated the threat and the surrounding circumstances. The Court held that lapses in investigation, even if apparent, do not by themselves entitle the accused to acquittal when the prosecution evidence otherwise proves guilt beyond reasonable doubt. The Court further reiterated that only a dishonest or guided investigation causing serious prejudice can undermine a conviction, whereas mere omissions or irregularities cannot displace otherwise reliable evidence. The concurrent findings of the courts below were found to be justified on the evidence.

Conclusion: The conviction and sentence were upheld and the challenge to the finding of guilt failed.

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