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Issues involved: Refusal to grant leave to question judgment of acquittal u/s 378(3) of Cr.P.C.
Issue 1: Refusal to grant leave to question judgment of acquittal The appellant-State challenged the one-line order "Dismissed" by the Himachal Pradesh High Court without assigning reasons for refusing to grant leave to file an appeal against the acquittal. The respondents faced trial for alleged offenses under various sections of the IPC. The prosecution's case detailed an incident where the accused persons set fire to the complainant's house. Despite witnesses and evidence, the High Court acquitted the accused due to perceived delays in lodging the FIR and disputes between the parties. Issue 2: Interpretation of Section 378 of Cr.P.C. Section 378(3) of the Cr.P.C. deals with the power of the High Court to grant leave in case of acquittal. The State Government can direct the Public Prosecutor to appeal against an order of acquittal, but such an appeal can only be entertained with the leave of the High Court. The trial Court's failure to carefully appraise the evidence obligated the High Court to grant leave and independently re-evaluate the evidence to determine the guilt or innocence of the accused. The High Court's refusal to grant leave without providing reasons was deemed unsustainable and contrary to legal principles. Significance of providing reasons in judicial decisions The Supreme Court emphasized the importance of providing reasons in judicial decisions, citing previous cases that highlighted the necessity of a speaking order. Reasons serve as a link between the decision-maker's thought process and the outcome, ensuring transparency and accountability in the judicial system. Failure to provide reasons can impede the appellate function and judicial review. The right to reason is considered essential for a fair judicial process and is a fundamental aspect of natural justice. Conclusion The Supreme Court found the High Court's judgment unsustainable due to the lack of reasons for refusing to grant leave to file an appeal against the acquittal. The Court set aside the judgment, granted leave to the State to file the appeal, and directed the High Court to hear the appeal in accordance with the law. The decision emphasized the importance of providing reasons in judicial decisions to ensure transparency and fairness in the legal process.
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