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      Question

      The Supreme Court's landmark judgment in Chetan v. The

      State of Karnataka established a critical principle regarding circumstantial evidence. The case involved murder allegations where the accused was the last person seen with the victim, and circumstantial evidence was the primary basis for conviction. The Supreme Court held that: Which of the following articulates the principle established in Chetan v. State of Karnataka regarding circumstantial evidence?
      A Circumstantial evidence can form the basis of conviction only when supported by at least two eyewitnesses. Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
      B A fact is proved when, based on reason and evidence, it appears so probable that a prudent person would act upon the supposition that it exists, and all circumstances must point to guilt beyond reasonable doubt. Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
      C The "last seen together doctrine" is conclusively applicable only in cases where the accused is proven to have motive. Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
      D Circumstantial evidence is inadmissible in cases involving premeditated crimes. Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
      E The burden of proof shifts to the accused once circumstantial evidence establishes proximity to the crime scene. Correct Answer Incorrect Answer

      Solution

      In Chetan v. The State of Karnataka, the Supreme Court clarified that the standard for proving a fact (including through circumstantial evidence) under Section 2(j) of the BSA is when "based on reason and evidence, it appears so probable that a prudent person ought, under the circumstances of the particular case, to act upon the supposition that it exists." The judgment reiterated that all circumstances must form a complete chain pointing to guilt beyond reasonable doubt, and no single circumstantial fact alone suffices. This case applies the definition of "proved" under BSA Section 2(j) to circumstantial evidence analysis, establishing that courts must undertake systematic evaluation of the totality of circumstances.

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