| Case ID |
d4a1cb1f-890f-43fa-abb6-fd1608ef5669 |
| Body |
View case body. Login to View |
| Case Number |
Criminal Petition No. 1802-L of 2017 |
| Decision Date |
Apr 21, 2022 |
| Hearing Date |
Apr 21, 2022 |
| Decision |
The Supreme Court acquitted Sajjad Hussain of the murder charges after determining that the prosecution failed to establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The court noted inconsistencies in witness testimonies and a lack of incriminating evidence linking the petitioner to the crime. The judges emphasized the principle that any reasonable doubt about the guilt of the accused must be resolved in favor of the accused, leading to the conclusion that the evidence presented did not sufficiently support a conviction. This decision highlights the importance of reliable evidence in criminal proceedings and underscores the legal principle of benefit of the doubt. |
| Summary |
In the case of Sajjad Hussain vs. The State, the Supreme Court of Pakistan addressed serious allegations of murder under the Pakistan Penal Code. The case revolved around the murder of Noor Hussain and Ghulam Abbas, where Hussain faced charges of Qatl-i-amd and abetment. Following a thorough review, the Supreme Court found substantial flaws in the prosecution's case, including the absence of direct evidence linking the petitioner to the crime, as well as inconsistencies among witness accounts. The court underscored the legal standard requiring that any reasonable doubt must benefit the accused. Ultimately, the court's ruling not only acquitted Sajjad Hussain but also reaffirmed the critical importance of upholding justice and ensuring that convictions are supported by solid and credible evidence. This case serves as a significant reference point for future criminal law cases, particularly regarding the burden of proof and the rights of the accused. |
| Court |
Supreme Court of Pakistan
|
| Entities Involved |
Not available
|
| Judges |
Ijaz Ul Ahsan,
Munib Akhtar,
Sayyed Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi
|
| Lawyers |
Sardar Muhammad Latif Khan Khosa,
Mirza Muhammad Usman
|
| Petitioners |
Sajjad Hussain
|
| Respondents |
The State and Others
|
| Citations |
2022 SLD 1103,
2022 SCMR 1540
|
| Other Citations |
Not available
|
| Laws Involved |
Pakistan Penal Code, 1860
|
| Sections |
109,
302(b)
|