Question

In a criminal trial, Rajesh is accused of theft. During the investigation, the police recover a stolen laptop from a location known to be frequented by Rajesh. His fingerprints are found on the laptop. According to the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023, how should the court interpret this piece of evidence?

• A. The recovered laptop and fingerprints are automatically considered conclusive proof of Rajesh’s guilt.
• B. The recovered laptop and fingerprints are circumstantial evidence that can be considered along with other evidence but do not by themselves prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt.
• C. The evidence is inadmissible because the police did not obtain a search warrant before recovering the laptop.
• D. The fingerprints must be verified by at least two independent forensic experts before being presented in court.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The recovered laptop and fingerprints found on it are circumstantial evidence that can be considered along with other evidence to establish Rajesh’s guilt. However, this evidence alone is not sufficient to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The court must consider all the evidence presented in the case and weigh it carefully before reaching a verdict.