Legal Case Summary

Case Details
Case ID 419402cd-7d24-4bf2-9302-27e7c65d9483
Body View case body.
Case Number Criminal Appeal No. 133 of 1981
Decision Date May 11, 1985
Hearing Date Feb 17, 1985
Decision The Supreme Court upheld the conviction of the appellants for the murders of four individuals, affirming the evidence presented by eyewitnesses and the reliability of the investigation. The court noted that the presence of the accused at the scene and the consistency of testimonies supported the prosecution's case. However, considering the young age of some appellants and the influence of their elder brothers, the court modified their death sentences to life imprisonment, providing them with the benefit of Section 382-B of the Cr.P.C. The court emphasized the need for justice while weighing the circumstances surrounding the case.
Summary This case involves a complex family dispute resulting in the brutal murders of four individuals. The Supreme Court of Pakistan, in its decision, addressed crucial legal principles including the reliability of eyewitness testimony and the implications of familial relationships on criminal liability. The court underscored the importance of corroborative evidence and the role of the investigating officer in ensuring a fair trial. The tragic events stemmed from a longstanding family feud exacerbated by personal grievances, highlighting the intersection of personal relationships and legal accountability. The judgment reflects a nuanced understanding of justice, balancing the gravity of the crimes with the mitigating factors related to the ages and influences on the accused. This case serves as a significant reference point in criminal law, particularly regarding the treatment of young offenders and the assessment of evidence in familial contexts.
Court Supreme Court of Pakistan
Entities Involved Not available
Judges MUHAMMAD HALEEM, C.J., NASIM HASAN SHAH, ZAFFAR HUSSAIN MIRZA, JJ
Lawyers Not available
Petitioners LIAQAT SHAH, SHAH NAWAZ, SANA SHAH, NAZAR SHAH, ZUBAIR SHAH
Respondents THE STATE
Citations 1985 SLD 793, 1985 SCMR 1415
Other Citations Not available
Laws Involved Constitution of Pakistan (1973), Penal Code (XLV of 1860)
Sections Art. 185(3), 302, 307, 452, 148, 149