Inimical Relationship Between Victim and Accused Requires Cautious Evaluation; Acquittal in Molestation Case Upheld: Himachal Pradesh High Court

In a judgment reaffirming the need for judicial caution in evaluating testimony where animosity exists, the Himachal Pradesh High Court has upheld the acquittal of an accused, Rajesh Kumar, in a molestation case. The Court observed that when the victim admits to having non-cordial or inimical relations with the accused, her statements must be examined with greater care, especially when there is unexplained delay in reporting. Testimony of victim with…