TARLOK SINGH vs STATE OF PUNJAB

The Supreme Court modified the death sentence imposed under Section 302 IPC to life imprisonment, emphasizing the importance of Section 235 of the Criminal Procedure Code, which allows the convicted person to present mitigating circumstances for sentencing. The Court held that while failure to provide an opportunity under Section 235(2) does not affect the conviction, it is crucial for determining an appropriate sentence. The Court considered factors such as the time elapsed since the death sentence, the absence of motive, and the fact that co-accused received lesser sentences, ultimately concluding that life imprisonment served the ends of justice.