Penal Code, 1860–Secs. 498-A & 306 [Corresponding Secs. 85 & 108 of BNS, 2023]–Conviction–Proper Section–Deceased burned herself using kerosene–It is evident from her statement (Ex-P. 11) that there is a lack of substantial evidence linking the appellant to any action of abetting her in act of suicide–The assertion that deceased recorded to such a tragic decision without viable alternatives is not a presumption that can be readily accepted–No compelling evidence to show that the appellant actively encouraged or faciliated deceased’s suicide–Most of prosecution witnesses turned hostile–Held, conviction u/s. 306 cannot be sustained–Sentence for the offence u/s. 498-A is reduced up to the period of already undergone.
