In a notable verdict from Delhi, a man accused of dowry death and cruelty toward his wife was acquitted by the Additional Sessions Judge Geetanjali, highlighting significant gaps in the prosecution’s evidence. The case, which lingered in the judicial system for over a decade, revolved around Govinda, who had been married to Maya since 2010. Maya’s death on August 30, 2014, under abnormal circumstances, led to accusations against Govinda by her family and subsequent charges by the Pul Prahaladpur police.
During the trial, the court scrutinized the testimonies of various prosecution witnesses, including Maya’s parents and other relatives. However, it became evident that there was no concrete testimony regarding any specific dowry demands or acts of cruelty by Govinda. The judge noted the absence of any precise allegations or evidence of harassment linked directly to dowry demands.
Furthermore, the medical examinations played a crucial role in the court’s decision. The medico-legal case (MLC) findings showed no external injuries on Maya, and the autopsy report did not suggest any violence prior to her death. Instead, it attributed her death to postpartum septic shock, a complication related to childbirth, rather than any physical abuse or neglect.
The judgment underscored the prosecution’s inability to prove the essential elements of dowry-related harassment and cruelty, leading to Govinda’s acquittal. The judge emphasized that the allegations against Govinda were vague and uncorroborated by dates or specifics of the purported harassment.
