Professional Documents
Culture Documents
CONCOURS, 2024
Before,
XX…..……………………..………………………………………………PETITIONER
CHEEKU REPUBLIC………………………………………………………RESPONDENT
CLUBBED WITH
MR.DUMBPUN.TRIVEDI…..………………………………………………PETITIONER
V
CLUBBED WITH
APPEAL NO 10/2023
MR.DEDBUL RANJAN…..………………………………………………APPELIANT
V
CHEEKU REPUBLIC.……………..…………………………………..RESPONDENT
TABLE OF CONTENT
INDEX OF AUTHORITIES......................................................................................................
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS ...................................................................................................
STATEMENT OF JURISDICTION..........................................................................................
STATEMENT OF FACTS ........................................................................................................
ISSUES RAISED .....................................................................................................................
SUMMARY OF ARGUMENTS .............................................................................................
1. MR. ARYAN M.’S STATEMENTS MADE IN PARLIAMENT WERE
VIOLATIVE OF THE RIGHT TO DIGNITY OF THE VICTIM UNDER
ARTICLE 21 OF THE CONSTITUTION
2. PRIVILEGES AND IMMUNITIES OF THE HOUSE OF THE
LEGISLATURES ENSHRINED UNDER ARTICLE 105 OF THE
CONSTITUTION CAN’T OVERRIDE THE FREEDOM OF THE PRESS
PROVIDED UNDER ARTICLE 19(1)(A) OF THE CONSTITUTION OF
CHEEKU REPUBLIC
3. ADDITIONAL EVIDENCE CAN BE ADMISSIBLE BEFORE THE HIGH
COURT WHILE DEALING WITH THE ISSUE OF DISCHARGE
4. THE HONARABLE SUPREME COURT SHOULD GRANT DISCHARGE TO
MR. DEDBULL RANJAN, IN THE IMMEDIATE CASE
ARGUMENTS
ADVANCED .................................................................................................
A. MR. ARYAN M.’S STATEMENTS MADE IN PARLIAMENT WERE
VIOLATIVE OF THE RIGHT TO DIGNITY OF THE VICTIM UNDER
ARTICLE 21 OF THE CONSTITUTION
A.1 . MR. ARYAN M.’S STATEMENTS IN PARLIAMENT, ARE NOT ONLY
INSENSITIVE BUT ALSO DEROGATORY, CAUSING SEVERE HARM TO
THE DIGNITY OF THE X
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PRAYER……………………………………………………………………………………...
INDEX OF AUTHORITIES
PAGE NO
1. Menaka Gandhi v. Union of India, 1978 1 SCC 248. 13
2. Keshav Singh v. Speaker, Legislative Assembly, 1965 AIR 745. 15
3. SR Bommai v. Union of India, 1994 2 SCR 644. 15
4. Tej Kiran Jain and Others v. Sanjiva Reddy and Others, 1971 SCR (1) 612. 16
5. Raja Ram Pal v. Hon'ble Speaker, Lok Sabha & Ors., 2007 3 SCC 184. 16
6. Gunupati Keshavram Reddy v. Nafisul Hasan, AIR 1954 SC 636. 16
7. Kaushal Kishore v. State of Uttar Pradesh, 2023 4 SCC 1. 16
8. Subramanian Swamy v. Union of India, Ministry of Law, 2016 SCC 302. 16
9. Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution. 17
10. Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Pvt. Ltd. v. Union of India, 1985 SCC 220. 17
11. Gunupati Keshavram Reddy v. Nafisul Hasan, AIR 1954 SC 636. 18
12. Ministry of I&B v. Cricket Association of Bengal, 1995 SCC 600. 18
13. Article 361A of the Indian Constitution. 19
14. Parliamentary Proceedings (Protection of Publication) Act, 1977. 20
15. Section 391 of the CRPC Code. 22
16. Rambhau & Anr. v. State of Maharashtra, 2001 SCC 759. 22
17. Zahira Habibulla H. Sheikh & Anr v. State Of Gujarat & Ors, 2004 4 SCC 158. 22
18. Section 386 of the CRPC Code. 23
19. Order 41 Rule 27 of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 23
20. Lakhan Singh v. Amarjeet Singh and others, Criminal Appeal No. 2191/2022. 23
21. Mohanlal Shamji Soni v. Union of India, AIR 1991 SC 1346. 23
22. Ramesh Chandra Agrawal v. Regency Hospital Ltd, 2009 9 SCC 709. 24
23. Andiswamy Chettiar vs. Subburaj Chettiyar, Civil Appeal No. 1333 of 2023. 24
24. Babubhai v. State of Gujarat & Ors., (2010) 11 SCC 508. 25
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25. Bhag Singh v. State of Haryana, (2007) Appeal (Civil) 1054 of 2005. 25
26. Section 227 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). 25
27. Avinash v. State of Madhya Pradesh, 2010 7 SCC 543. 26
28. State of Uttar Pradesh v. Ram Kishen, 2019 12 SCC 198 27
29. Dayal Singh and Ors. v. State of Uttaranchal, 2012 8 SCC 263. 27
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
SC SUPREME COURT
HC HIGH COURT
X SEXUAL ASSAULT VICTIM
CNS CHEEKU NYAYA SANHITA
BBP BASU BELLI BHAAT PARTY
CRPC CODE OF CRIMINAL PROCEDURE
ANR ANOTHER
ORS OTHER
SCC SUPREME COURT CASES
Hon’ble HONORABLE
SEC SECTION
AIR ALL INDIA REPORTER
SCR SUPREME COURT REPORTS
STATEMENT OF JURISDICTION
This Hon'ble Court possesses jurisdiction to entertain and adjudicate upon the Writ Petition
filed by X seeking redress for the alleged violation of her rights under Article 21 of the
Constitution.
The Supreme Court, being the apex judicial authority, is vested with the jurisdiction to
enforce fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution.
Article 32 of the Constitution confers upon this Hon'ble Court the power to entertain writ
petitions to enforce fundamental rights.
The Writ Petition filed by DumbPun Press invokes the jurisdiction of this Hon'ble Court to
protect and uphold the fundamental right to freedom of the press under Article 19(1)(a) of the
Constitution.
Article 32 empowers the Supreme Court to entertain writ petitions for the protection of
fundamental rights, including freedom of the press.
This Hon'ble Court possesses jurisdiction to hear the Criminal Appeal filed by Mr. DedBull
Ranjan, challenging the orders of lower courts, on matters relating to criminal law and
constitutional rights.
The Supreme Court, as the court of last resort, holds appellate jurisdiction over decisions of
lower courts in criminal matters. The Criminal Appellate jurisdiction of Supreme Court
mentioned in Article 134 of the Constitution.
STATEMENT OF FACTS
Republic of Cheeku, a diverse nation of over 1.3 billion people with a rich historical
tapestry shaped by a significant colonial era under British rule. The framers of
Cheeku's constitution drew inspiration from English legal traditions, creating a
constitutional framework that reflects a fusion of colonial influences and the nation's
aspirations for sovereignty.
Cheeku Republic operates as the world's largest democracy with a Parliamentary
System of Governance, embodying the principles of representative democracy and the
separation of powers among the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary. However,
recent years have witnessed a rise in intolerant politics marked by polarization,
religious and ethnic tensions, and curtailed freedom of expression.
The emergence of charismatic yet controversial leaders, exemplified by Daddy Dixit
of the Basu-Belli Bhaat Party (BBP), has further intensified political divisions. The
BBP, accused of employing intolerant politics, came to power in 2011, leading to
increased polarization along religious and ethnic lines.
This situation culminated in a brutal sexual assault incident in the Cheeku Republic,
specifically in Bubu Pradesh in October, trigg
ering widespread protests and demands for legislative reforms.
The parliamentary discussion on revisiting sexual offense provisions in CNS 1860
AND CRPC 1973 led to a heated confrontation between Mr. Aryan M., a polarizing
cabinet minister, and opposition members. Mr. Aryan's statement, alleging a
conspiracy between the victim and the opposition, resulted in chaos, leading to the
adjournment of the parliamentary session.
Proceedings of the parliament were being live reported by DumbPun Press, a large
media house notorious for publishing anti-government content live reporting of these
events by DumbPun Press, fueled the fire, The statement along with DumbPun Press’s
piece added to the public outcry and there were violent clashes between supporters of
the BBP and lower-caste student political leaders the next day
In response to the incident, the BBP, in the majority in the lower house, initiated a
breach of privilege motion against Mr. DumbPun Trivedi, the founding editor of
DumbPun Press.
Simultaneously, the sexual assault victim approached the Supreme Court, filing a
Writ Petition against Mr. Aryan M., alleging a violation of her Right to Dignity under
Article 21 of the Constitution.
Mr. DumbPun also filed a writ petition against the summons notice arguing that
privileges under Article 105 cannot override the Fundamental Right to Freedom of the
press provided under Article 19(1). He also believed that the live-reporting piece was
well-protected under Article 361-A of the Constitution and the Parliamentary
Proceedings (Protection of Publication) Act, 1977.
After 5 days after the date of publication in the DumbPun Press, The panel Debate
was organized on Apne log News Channel by Mr. Gaurav Samay Raina (Speaker,
BBP) and Mr. DedBull Ranjan (Founder, FloodConnect Foundation). During the
panel debate, heated arguments and threats were exchanged between Mr. Gaurav and
Mr. DedBull
Mr. Gaurav, a supporter of Mr. Aryan, was assaulted by Mr. DedBull during a public
gathering organised on 01/11/2023. Mr. Gaurav filed a police complaint on
03/11/2023 and Mr. DedBull was arrested. The case went through several stages:
In the Initial investigation Police filed an FIR and investigated the case. On
12/11/2023 Assistant Chief Judicial Magistrate committed the case to trial under
Sections 320, 322, 325 and 335 of the CNS. On 22/11/2023 Mr. DedBull filed a
discharge application in High Court, but it was dismissed. On 26/11/2023 Chief
Judicial Magistrate found insufficient evidence for grievous hurt and referred the case
for reinvestigation. A new application for discharge was filed based on the Chief
Judicial Magistrate's order but rejected by the Trial Court on 02/12/2023 then Mr.
Dedbull Ranjan applied again in the High Court under section 482 against the order of
trial court passed by 02/12/2023 but his appeal is rejected and Honarable HC says at
this stage he cant accept additional evidence other than that mentioned in section 239
and 240 of CRPC. Against This Mr. DedBull appealed to the Supreme Court, which
admitted the appeal
The Supreme Court, recognizing the interconnectedness of these issues, has scheduled
a joint hearing before a 7-Judge Bench on January 7th, 2024, to address crucial
constitutional questions arising from these complex circumstances.
ISSUE RAISED
1. Whether Mr. Aryan M.’s statements made in Parliament were violative of the Right to
Dignity of the victim under Article 21 of the Constitution?
2. Whether privileges and immunities of the House of the Legislatures enshrined under
Article 105 of the Constitution override the freedom of press provided under Article
19(1)(a) in the present case?
3. Is additional evidence admissible before the High Court while dealing with the
discharge issue?
4. In the instant case, whether Mr. DedBull Ranjan can be discharged or not?
SUMMARY OF ARGUMENTS
It is Humbly Submitted by the Counsel of Petitioner that Mr. Aryan M.'s statements in
Parliament, accusing the victim and opposition of a deliberate ploy, have caused severe harm
to the dignity of the sexual assault victim, violating her fundamental right to life and personal
liberty under Article 21. Counsel agrees that a special right is granted to Parliamentarians to
speak freely without any Coercion. Still, such a right can’t violate the Right to Dignity
granted in Article 21 of the Constitution. Parliamentarians are responsible for upholding
constitutional values, and Mr. Aryan M.'s statements breach this responsibility. Counsel
Seeks direction from the Honorable SC for appropriate action against Mr. Aryan M. for
violating the victim's right to dignity.
The Counsel of Petitioner Humbly submits that The summons and the subsequent breach of
privilege motion against Mr. DumbPun Trivedi violate the fundamental right to freedom of
the press guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution. The provisions of the
Parliamentary Proceedings (Protection of Publication) Act, 1977, also protect the publication
of reports on parliamentary proceedings. Article 19(1)(a) talks about Freedom Of the Press,
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which is a Fundamental Right, and the Press is Also Considered 4th Pillar of Democracy In
any Democratic Country. The press should run without any Duress or Pressure. The People
Of the Cheeku Republic have the right to see what their elected Representative is doing
inside the Parliament. The Counsel of Petitioner challenges the breach of privilege motion
and seeks protection for the press under Article 19(1)(a) and relevant statutes.
It is humbly submitted before the Hon’ble Supreme Court that the objective of discharge
proceedings is to ensure that no person is subjected to a trial when there is insufficient
evidence to justify it. Admitting additional evidence may be essential for the High Court to
make a well-informed decision on whether to discharge the accused. There is a need for the
admissibility of additional evidence during discharge proceedings for fair adjudication and
comprehensive examination of facts to ensure justice. Present case laws also support the
admission of additional evidence in discharge hearings. Restricting the High Court from
admitting additional evidence may lead to manifest injustice. If crucial evidence comes to
light post the framing of charges, it is in the interest of justice to allow its consideration to
prevent an innocent person from facing trial. The council argues that the interpretation of
procedural laws should be harmonious, ensuring that justice is served. A restrictive
interpretation prohibiting the admission of additional evidence would contradict the
overarching goal of delivering justice.
The Counsel of Petitioner Humbly submits that the lower courts, including the Chief Judicial
Magistrate and the High Court, have committed legal and procedural irregularities in
rejecting the discharge application. The reliance on false evidence and the refusal to consider
additional documents infringe upon Mr. DedBull Ranjan's fair trial rights. Counsel asserts
that the refusal to discharge him, despite the court's acknowledgment of insufficiency in
medical evidence, violates the principles of natural justice. The petitioner contends that
continuing proceedings without adequate evidence infringes upon his right to a fair trial. In
light of the insufficiency of medical evidence, non-examination of crucial witnesses,
discrepancies in findings, and the potential violation of principles of natural justice, The
Counsel for Petitioner urges the Supreme Court to discharge Mr Dedbull Ranjan from the
criminal proceedings.
ARGUMENT ADVANCED
It is humbly submitted by the counsel for the petitioners that Mr. Aryan M.’s Statements
Made in Parliament Were Violative Of The Right To Dignity Of The Victim Under Article
21 Of The Constitution. : Mr. Aryan M.'s statements in Parliament, accusing the X and
opposition of a deliberate ploy, have not only tarnished the reputation of the X but have also
exacerbated the trauma she has already endured as a survivor of sexual assault. These
statements go beyond political discourse and directly impact her right to live with dignity,
which is an integral part of the right to life and personal liberty under Artic`le 21 of the
Constitution.
Human dignity is an inherent and inalienable right that every individual possesses by being
human. In the context of sexual assault, recognizing and upholding the survivor's dignity
becomes paramount. Dignity encompasses the right to be treated with respect and empathy
and without any form of degradation.
Article 21 of the Constitution guarantees the right to life and personal liberty, and the
right to live with human dignity. The right to dignity includes protection from public
statements or actions that demean or degrade an individual. In 1Maneka Gandhi v.
Union of India the Supreme Court gave a new dimension to Art. 21. The Court held
that the right to live is not merely a physical right but includes the right to live with
human dignity within its ambit. Furthermore, the Supreme Court has held in Francis
vs. Union Territory (AIR 1981 SC 746) that the right to life would include the right to
live with human dignity.
Mr. Aryan M.'s statement alleging a conspiracy between the victim and the opposition
party to play caste politics not only casts unwarranted aspersions on the character of
the victim but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes. Such statements contribute to the
victim's stigmatization and compromise her right to live a life with dignity.
The Counsel asserts that the victim's mental and emotional well-being has been
adversely affected by the public discussion of the assault in Parliament. This impact
on the psychological integrity of the victim further underscores the violation of the
Right to Dignity. exual assault is a sensitive and deeply personal crime that inflicts
severe emotional, psychological, and sometimes physical trauma on the survivor.
Recognizing the gravity of such offenses, legal systems worldwide have developed
mechanisms to protect the identity and dignity of survivors.
Parliament, being a public forum where legislative matters are discussed and
decisions are made, is expected to uphold the highest standards of propriety.
Discussions within Parliament should be conducted with a sense of responsibility,
especially when dealing with matters as sensitive as sexual assault.
X may experience profound psychological distress when intimate details of the assault
are disclosed in a public setting. This disclosure not only invades the survivor's
privacy but also exposes them to public judgment, reinforcing the trauma and
inhibiting their ability to heal.
Public disclosures in Parliament can have a chilling effect on survivors coming
forward to report incidents of sexual assault. Fear of public exposure may deter
survivors from seeking justice, thus undermining the broader societal goal of
combating sexual violence.
1
Menaka Gandhi v. Union of India, 1978 1 SCC. 248.
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2
Keshav Singh v. Speaker, Legislative Assembly, 1965 AIR 745
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The State has a constitutional duty to protect the dignity of its citizens. Mr. Aryan
M.'s statements, being a representative of the state, directly implicate the State's duty
to safeguard the dignity of individuals, especially victims of sexual assault. In 3S. R.
Bommai v. Union of India (1994), the court emphasized that constitutional authorities
must act responsibly to preserve democratic values.
While parliamentary privilege protects freedom of speech within the legislative
domain, it must be harmonized with the fundamental rights of individuals. The
petitioner argues that the statements in question do not fall within the legitimate
bounds of parliamentary privilege when they erode an individual’s dignity.
In 4Tej Kiran Jain And Others V. Sanjiva Reddy And Others., the Supreme Court
observed that defamation proceedings cannot be instituted against the
parliamentarians for their speeches made in the parliament. The only caveat is that
such speech must be in the course of parliamentary business but here in this case
speech given by Mr.Aryan is not in Parliamentary Business.
In 5Raja Ram Pal v. Hon’ble Speaker, Lok Sabha, honorable SC establish that It is
beyond doubt that the Supreme Court possess the jurisdiction to examine matter
relating to particular power and privilege as asserted by the legislature. Raja Ram Pal,
who published a book critical of a former Prime Minister, faced a breach of privilege
complaint. The Supreme Court ruled that although legislative bodies have certain
privileges necessary for their functioning, these cannot override fundamental rights,
including freedom of speech and expression, unless a compelling justification exists.
Supreme Court of India in 6Gunupati Keshavram Reddy v. Nafisul Hasan held that
“Article 194(3) (i.e. privileges) was subject to Part III (i.e fundamental rights)
In 7Kaushal Kishore v State Of Uttar Pradesh Justice Nagarathna, in a partly
dissenting judgment, opined that dignity is a quintessential and basic constituent of
the rights guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution. Therefore, Article 19(1)(a)
of the Constitution cannot be cited as a reason for curtailing the rights under Article
21. She held that since the speech in the given case was disparaging, derogatory and
resembled hate speech, it could not be protected under Article 19(1)(a). court held that
facts of this case did not require balancing two fundamental rights, but rather dealt
3
SR Bommai v. Union of India, 1994 2 SCR 644.
4
Tej Kiran Jain and Others v. Sanjiva Reddy and Others, 1971 SCR (1) 612.
5
Raja Ram Pal v. Hon'ble Speaker, Lok Sabha & Ors., 2007 3 SCC 184.
6
Gunupati Keshavram Reddy v. Nafisul Hasan, AIR 1954 SC 636.
7
Kaushal Kishore v. State of Uttar Pradesh, (2023) 4 SCC 1.
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the press must be narrowly construed, and any attempt to suppress information should
be subject to strict scrutiny.
The framers of the Constitution recognized the critical role of the press in
disseminating information, shaping public opinion, and acting as a watchdog on the
government. This acknowledgment is reflected in the Constitution's commitment to
safeguarding freedom of the press.
Freedom of the press enables journalists to investigate, report, and comment on
matters of public interest. It is crucial in facilitating an informed public debate, a
cornerstone of democratic decision-making. An independent press acts as a check on
government actions and ensures transparency and accountability. It serves as a bridge
between the government and the citizens, holding those in power responsible for their
decisions.
Supreme Court of India in 11Gunupati Keshavram Reddy v. Nafisul Hasan held that
“Article 194(3) (i.e. privileges) was subject to Part III of the Constitution of cheeku
Republic
In the case of 12
Secretary, Ministry of I&B v. Cricket Association of Bengal the
Honorable SC reaffirmed the constitutional significance of press freedom. The Court
held that restrictions on the press should not be excessive and should be imposed only
in the interest of the sovereignty and integrity of India, the security of the state,
friendly relations with foreign states, public order, decency, or morality. It
emphasized that any attempt to stifle the press must be proportionate and reasonable.
While Article 105 grants certain privileges and immunities to the House of the
Legislatures, it is essential to recognize that these privileges are not absolute. The
Constitution envisages a delicate balance between the powers and immunities of the
legislature and the fundamental rights of individuals, including the freedom of the
press. This balance should be maintained to prevent the overreach of legislative power
Article 105 grants privileges to the Houses of Parliament, such as freedom of speech
and immunity from legal proceedings for speeches and votes. However, these
privileges are circumscribed by the need to protect the larger public interest and
11
Gunupati Keshavram Reddy v. Nafisul Hasan, AIR 1954 SC 636.
12
Ministry of I&B v. Cricket Association of Bengal, 1995 SCC 600.
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B3. THE COUNSEL FURTHER CONTENDS THAT ARTICLE 361A AND THE
PARLIAMENTARY PROCEEDINGS (PROTECTION OF PUBLICATION) ACT,
1977 PROTECT THE PUBLICATION OF PARLIAMENTARY PROCEEDINGS IN
THE HOUSE AGAINST ARTICLE 105 PARLIAMENTARY PRIVILEGE
The wording of 13Article 361A is “No person shall be liable to any proceedings, civil
or criminal, in any court in respect of the publication in a newspaper of a substantially
true report of any proceedings of either House of Parliament or the Legislative
Assembly, or, as the case may be, either House of the Legislature, of a State, unless
the publication is proved to have been made with malice” This clearly protect Press
and allow them to publish house Proceedings and Petitioner was exercising this article
to publish parliament proceeding report on his Newspaper Dumbpun press
13
Article 361A of the Indian Constitution.
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14
The Parliamentary Proceedings (Protection of Publication) Act, 1977 is an Indian
law that protects the publication of reports of proceedings in Parliament the main
Objective is to ensure public awareness of parliamentary proceedings by granting
legal protection to their publication in newspapers and broadcasts.
The act says No one can be sued (civil or criminal) for publishing a substantially true
report of parliamentary proceedings in a newspaper unless it's proven to be done with
malice. Definition of "newspaper": Includes printed periodicals, news agencies, and
broadcasting stations. The Act also applies to reports of proceedings broadcast over
radio or television.
Overall This Act safeguards freedom of the press and promotes informed public
participation in democracy. It enables newspapers and broadcasters to report on
parliamentary debates and decisions without fear of legal repercussions.
B4. THE ARTICLE 19(1)(a) IS ALIGNED WITH THE DEMOCRATIC
PRINCIPLES ON WHICH OUR COUNTRY CHEEKU REPUBLIC FORMED
AND MAKES OUR ELECTED REPRESENTATIVE ACCOUNTABLE BY
PUBLISHING THERE CONDUCT INSIDE THE HOUSE OF PARLIAMENT
Democracy is a foundational principle of the Indian Constitution, and it is enshrined
in the Preamble as a key feature of the country's governance. The essence of
democracy lies in the active participation of citizens, the protection of individual
rights, and the accountability of elected representatives.
Freedom of the press is considered one of the pillars of a vibrant democracy. It serves
as a crucial check on governmental power, provides a forum for diverse voices and
opinions, and ensures that citizens are informed, enabling them to make informed
decisions.
The press plays a pivotal role in democracy by acting as a watchdog, exposing
corruption, scrutinizing government actions, and facilitating public discourse. Any
undue restriction on the freedom of the press can have a detrimental effect on the
democratic fabric of the country.
Democracy thrives when citizens are well-informed and actively participate in the
democratic process. The press bridges the government and the public, holding public
officials accountable for their actions. Any curtailment of press freedom can impede
the ability of citizens to make informed decisions.
14
Parliamentary Proceedings (Protection of Publication) Act, 1977.
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15
Section 391 of the CRPC Code empowers the court to admit additional evidence at
the appellate stage if it considers such additional evidence necessary. The power to be
exercised is discretionary and cannot be utilized to fill up gaps and lacunae in the
evidence.
The appellate court's power to receive additional evidence under section 391 of the
Code fell for consideration in 16Rambhau and Another Vs. State of Maharashtra and it
was held that the powers under the section being like an exception shall always have
to be exercised with caution and circumspection to meet the ends of justice
The nature, scope and object of the powers to be exercised under section 391 of the
Code was also examined in 17Zahira Habibulla H. Sheikh & Anr vs State Of Gujarat
&
Ors and it was held that though under the provision a wide discretion has been
conferred, the powers could not be exercised for filling up any lacunae and the
appellate court while directing taking of additional evidence was required to record
reasons for the same. The powers under section 391 of the Code were held to be like
exception to the general rule and it was stated that the same must be exercised with
great care.
Section 391 is one such exception to the ordinary rule. If the appellate Court considers
additional evidence to be necessary, the provisions in 18Section 386 and Section 391
have to be harmoniously considered to enable the appeal to be considered and
disposed of also in the light of the additional evidence as well The legislative intent in
enacting Section 391 appears to be the empowerment of the appellate court to see that
justice is done between the prosecutor and the persons prosecuted. If the appellate
Court finds that certain evidence is necessary to enable it to give correct and proper
findings, it would be justified in taking action under Section 391.
15
Section 391 of the CRPC Code.
16
Rambhau & Anr. v. State of Maharashtra, 2001 SCC 759.
17
Zahira Habibulla H. Sheikh & Anr v. State Of Gujarat & Ors, 2004 4 SCC 158.
18
Section 386 of the CRPC Code.
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The powers under the section have been held akin to those under 19Order 41 Rule 27
of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908, and in view thereof, additional evidence cannot
be tendered at the appellate stage as a matter of right, and the power to be exercised
by the appellate court is to be based on discretion, sound judicial principles and in the
interest of justice.
In 20
Lakhan Singh VS Amarjeet Singh and other the High Court allowed an
application moved by the accused-applicant (appellant before the High Court-
respondent No. 1 herein) with reference to Sections 311 and 391 of the Code of
Criminal Procedure, 1973 and directed the Trial Court to take on record the additional
evidence and documents, as mentioned in the subject application; and to send the file
back along with additional evidence.
In 21Mohanlal Shamji Soni vs Union of India, the Honorable SC held that the Accused
should given full Opportunity to Prove his innocence; admission of additional
evidence helps court to achieve this objective
Allowing the presentation of additional evidence at the discharge stage ensures that
the accused is afforded a fair opportunity to contest the charges and present relevant
material that might impact the decision. The council further asserts that the right to a
full defense is a fundamental aspect of a fair trial. Any restrictions on presenting
additional evidence may curtail the accused's ability to counter the charges effectively
and could lead to an incomplete assessment. Legal proceedings are dynamic, and new
evidence may come to light after framing charges. Allowing the introduction of
additional evidence acknowledges the evolving nature of cases and ensures that the
court is equipped with all relevant information. Counsel argues that a rigid prohibition
on presenting additional evidence may lead to potential miscarriages of justice. If, for
19
Order 41 Rule 27 of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908
20
Lakhan Singh v. Amarjeet Singh and others, Criminal Appeal No. 2191/2022.
21
Mohanlal Shamji Soni v. Union of India, AIR 1991 SC 1346.
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instance, exculpatory evidence emerges post the framing of charges, the accused
should be permitted to bring such evidence to the court.
The right to a full defense is intertwined with the principles of due process and a fair
trial. Allowing the accused to present additional evidence ensures that the legal
process is transparent. At the stage of framing charges, the evidence available might
be incomplete or subject to reinterpretation. Allowing the accused to introduce
additional evidence ensures that a more comprehensive and accurate picture of the
case can be presented, contributing to the fairness and reliability of the legal
proceedings.
In 22Ramesh Chandra Agarwal v. Regency Hospital Ltd the Supreme Court held that
in the interest of justice, the court has the discretion to allow additional evidence if it
is satisfied that such evidence is necessary for a just decision. This decision
exemplifies the court's recognition of the evolving nature of legal disputes.
SC order in 23Andi Swamy Chettiar vs Subburaj Chettiyar case SC had held that an
appellate court, while hearing the matter finally, could exercise jurisdiction one way
or the other under Order XLI, Rule 27 of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908, specially
clause (b).
In the case of 24Babubhai v. State of Gujarat, the court set a significant precedent by
allowing the admission of additional evidence at the discharge stage. The key
arguments and observations from this case include. The court acknowledged that the
primary purpose of discharge proceedings is to prevent the abuse of the legal process.
Allowing the admission of additional evidence was seen to achieve this objective.
Emphasizing the importance of a fair decision, the court held that the High Court
should have the flexibility to consider additional evidence if it is crucial for arriving at
a just and equitable decision. The court recognized that a restrictive approach, barring
the admission of additional evidence, might lead to manifest injustice. In the interest
22
Ramesh Chandra Agrawal v. Regency Hospital Ltd, 2009 9 SCC 709.
23
Andiswamy Chettiar vs. Subburaj Chettiyar, Civil Appeal No. 1333 of 2023.
24
Babubhai v. State of Gujarat & Ors., 2010 11 SCC 508.
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of justice, the High Court should be empowered to consider all relevant material.The
case underscored the discretionary powers of the High Court in criminal proceedings.
Judicial discretion was seen as a tool to be used judiciously to balance the interests of
the accused and the interests of justice. The court's decision in Babubhai emphasized
that procedural fairness demands a certain degree of flexibility. Prohibiting the
admission of additional evidence rigidly would be inconsistent with the principles of
fairness. The decision in this case was in harmony with the statutory framework,
recognizing that the CrPC provides the High Court with broad powers to ensure a fair
and just decision at every stage of the criminal proceedings.
In 25Bhag Singh v. State of Haryana the Punjab and Haryana High Court allowed the
prosecution to submit a fresh medical report that had become available after the filing
of the discharge application. The Court concluded that the report contained vital
information relevant to the charges against the accused.
In India, High Courts have the discretion to admit additional evidence while dealing
with the discharge issue under 26Section 227 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. This
power is exercised cautiously and judiciously, considering various factors like the
nature of the evidence, its relevance and stage of the proceedings, and potential
prejudice to the parties.
D. THE HONARABLE SUPREME COURT SHOULD GRANT DISCHARGE TO
MR. DEDBULL RANJAN, IN IMMEDIATE CASE
The counsel, on behalf of the petitioner, submits that the circumstances surrounding
the alleged assault on Mr. Gaurav Samay Raina do not warrant the continuation of
criminal proceedings against him. The council seeks discharge, contending that the
evidence presented is insufficient to establish the charges under Sections 320, 322,
325, and 335 of the Cheeku Nyaya Sanhita (C.N.S.).
25
Bhag Singh v. State of Haryana, (2007) Appeal (Civil) 1054 of 2005.
26
Section 227 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC).
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27
Avinash v. State of Madhya Pradesh, [2010] 7 SCC 543.
28
State of Uttar Pradesh v. Ram Kishen, [2019] 12 SCC 198.
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29
Dayal Singh and Ors. v. State of Uttaranchal, 2012 8 SCC 263.
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Counsel submit that the legal proceedings against him should be discharged based on
violating his right to fair trial and natural justice, abuse of the legal process, the prima
facie evaluation of evidence, judicial error, and the overarching need to protect
individual rights. The Counsel for petitioner seeks the Supreme Court's intervention to
rectify the legal anomalies and uphold the principles of justice and fairness.
Wherefore in the light of the facts of the case, issues raised, arguments advanced, and
authorities cited, may this Hon’ble bench be pleased to adjudge and declare that:
1. For an immediate quashing of the impugned actions and statements made by Mr. Aryan M.
in Parliament, which are violative of the Right to Dignity of the sexual assault victim under
Article 21 of the Constitution.
2. For a declaration that the privileges and immunities of the House of the Legislatures under
Article 105 of the Constitution cannot override the freedom of the press provided under
Article 19(1)(a) in the present case.
3. For a declaration that additional evidence is admissible before the High Court while
dealing with the discharge issue, and for an appropriate order allowing the presentation of
such evidence.
And/Or
Pass any other order that it may deem fit in the interest of justice, equality,
s/d
On behalf of Petitioners