RAMBHAU vs STATE OF MAHARASHTRA

The Supreme Court clarified the application of Section 391 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, emphasizing that additional evidence may be admitted only when necessary and must not prejudice the accused. The Court held that this provision is an exception to the general rule that appeals are decided on trial court evidence, and it must be exercised with caution to serve the ends of justice. The judgment also reaffirmed the principle that the doctrine of finality in judicial proceedings remains intact despite the exercise of this power, as it does not constitute a retrial.