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Appeal against conviction under s. 380 of the Indian Penal Code by the High Court of Andhra Pradesh after appeal against acquittal. Analysis: The prosecution alleged that the appellants, along with others, removed a Printing Press to Korlakota, leading to their conviction under s. 380 of the Indian Penal Code. The case revolved around the ownership of the Press, with conflicting claims presented by the prosecution and the defence. The prosecution relied on witness testimonies, including Pappala Chinna Ramadasu, while the defence argued that the Press was legally transferred to the second appellant. The defence presented evidence to support their claim, including a handwriting expert's testimony confirming the authenticity of key documents. The Additional District and Sessions Judge found in favor of the defence, stating that the matter should be decided in a Civil Court and directed the acquittal of the appellants. The High Court, however, reversed the acquittal, focusing on the declaration by Pappala Chinna Ramadasu as the basis for proving theft. The High Court's judgment was challenged in the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court criticized the High Court's interpretation of the law regarding a bona fide claim of right as a defense to theft. The Supreme Court clarified that a genuine claim of right can be a valid defense against theft, citing legal precedents and established principles. The Court emphasized that ownership of the Press is a matter of general law and must be determined by a Civil Court. The Supreme Court concluded that the appellants had a bona fide claim of right to the Press, warranting their acquittal. The Supreme Court set aside the convictions, acquitted the appellants, and ordered the remittance of any fines imposed. In summary, the Supreme Court allowed the appeal, emphasizing the importance of a bona fide claim of right as a defense to theft and directing that ownership disputes should be resolved in Civil Courts rather than through criminal proceedings.
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