Calcutta High Court On Absence Of Independent Witnesses And Fair Investigation

The Calcutta High Court analysed whether the absence of independent witnesses undermines the fairness of a criminal investigation. The Court held that the lack of independent witnesses does not automatically vitiate prosecution, but it requires courts to scrutinise the investigative process more closely. It stressed that fair investigation is integral to fair trial rights, and authorities must corroborate witness statements with material evidence. The ruling emphasises judicial duty to ensure credibility, impartiality and procedural integrity while also recognising practical constraints in securing neutral witnesses.