Medical Evidence in Dowry Deaths: An Evaluation by Indian Courts

Dowry Death has been one of the most barbaric forms of cruelty inflicted on young brides in the matrimonial home. Over the years, it assumed dangerous proportions calling for immediate legislative changes. Supreme Court judgment dated 11th Oct 2006 held that the demand for dowry or money from the parents of the bride has shown a phenomenal increase in last few years. Cases are frequently coming before the Courts, where the husband or in-laws have gone to the extent of killing the bride if the demand is not met. These crimes are generally committed in complete secrecy inside the house and it becomes very difficult for the prosecution to lead evidence.

Forensic medical evidence has proved to be a crucial area in establishing the fact of ‘unnatural’ death before the Indian courts. An evaluation of cases indicates that proper scientific evidence has assisted the courts to establish the cause of deaths, while the absence of it has created a dilemma, leading to the acquittal of the accused. The paper emphasizes on the significance and indispensability of Forensic Medical evidence for the purpose of prosecuting an accused for the offence.