Legal Case Summary

Case Details
Case ID 14b9b476-c269-4e2f-a152-650f35226c69
Body View case body.
Case Number Criminal Petition No. 89 of 1984
Decision Date Dec 22, 1987
Hearing Date Dec 22, 1987
Decision The Supreme Court of Pakistan granted leave to appeal against the acquittal of Maqsood Javaid by the Lahore High Court. The case involved the murder of Aminullah, a student who was attacked by several individuals, including the respondent. The court found that the High Court had erred in not accepting the testimony of the eye-witnesses. The petitioners argued that the plea of alibi raised by the respondent was not supported by reliable evidence. Consequently, the court issued a warrant for the arrest of the respondent, allowing further examination of the case.
Summary The case revolves around the murder of Aminullah, which occurred on March 17, 1978, in a college hostel. The Supreme Court of Pakistan reviewed the case following the Lahore High Court's decision to acquit Maqsood Javaid, who was charged under section 302 of the Pakistan Penal Code for the murder. The prosecution's case relied heavily on the testimonies of three key eye-witnesses. The Court scrutinized the High Court's handling of the evidence, particularly regarding the credibility of the witnesses and the respondent's alibi. The Court's decision emphasized the importance of witness reliability and the proper evaluation of evidence in murder cases, thereby reinforcing the legal standards for handling such serious allegations. The ruling highlights a critical aspect of criminal law—ensuring that justice is served through a meticulous examination of both the prosecution and defense arguments. This case serves as a significant reference point for future cases involving similar circumstances, particularly in terms of witness credibility and the importance of thorough investigations in murder trials.
Court Supreme Court of Pakistan
Entities Involved
Judges ASLAM RIAZ HUSSAIN, MUHAMMAD AFZAL ZULLAH, SAAD SAOOD JAN
Lawyers
Petitioners Haji AMANULLAH KHAN
Respondents MAQSOOD JAVAID
Citations 1988 SLD 2196, 1988 SCMR 489
Other Citations Not available
Laws Involved Penal Code (XLV of 1860)
Sections 302