Suicide

Usually in case of suicidal death, weapon is firmly clutched in working hand of deceased with index finger fixed curved tight on trigger due to cadaveric spasm

In committing suicide, fire shot is made contact with body surface that could cause entry wound at the size of width of barrel of weapon.

Investigating Officer, admitted that there were rumors that the deceased was mentally not stable, due to which she might have committed suicide

Provisions of S.174, Cr.P.C. had not been complied with by Investigating Officer, who was bound to inquire about commission of suicide by a person, or had been killed prior to registration of case

On receipt of information in respect of suicide Police Officer would intimate it to the nearest Magistrate having powers to hold inquiry, and thereafter proceed to spot and investigate the matter in the presence of two or more respectable persons hailed from the place and draw a report of apparent cause of death; describing full details, mode and manner of commission of crime; and weapon used and in case of doubt, refer the dead body with view to be examined by the nearest Civil Surgeon; or other qualified doctor appointed by Provincial Government

No such procedure had been adopted in the present case, which made the case doubtful, and was fatal to prosecution case.

Purpose of investigation under section 174, Cr.P.C. or inquiry under section 176, Cr.P.C. is only to ensure that no offence has been committed in connection with death of a person

Such investigation or inquiry is not to establish that suicide has occurred.

Principles.

Suicide Suicide-A form of culpable homicide-Discussion.