State Of Maharashtra vs Rajendra & Ors

The Supreme Court held that the presumption under Section 113-A of the Evidence Act does not apply unless the prosecution establishes that the death was suicidal and that the deceased was subjected to cruelty, requiring direct evidence. The Court found that the High Court erred in acquitting the accused under Sections 498-A, 304-B, and 306 IPC, all read with Section 34 IPC, as the evidence presented indicated a prima facie case of dowry-related harassment and death. Consequently, the Supreme Court reversed the High Court's judgment and reinstated the charges against the accused.