In Lok Mal @ Loku v. The State of Uttar Pradesh, the Supreme Court on March 7, 2025 upheld a conviction under Sections 376 and 323 IPC, affirming that the absence of injury marks on a victim’s private parts cannot by itself discredit her testimony. The bench of Justices Sandeep Mehta and P. B. Varale reiterated that the prosecutrix’s evidence, if found “wholly trustworthy, unshaken, and inspiring confidence”, suffices to sustain a conviction, even in the absence of corroborative medical evidence.
The Court emphasized that physical injuries may not always be present in sexual assault. This should not undermine reliable testimony. It directed lower courts to avoid using non-injury as a tool to reject credible claims. Instead focus on the overall circumstances and consistency of the victim’s account.
Why It Matters
This ruling strengthens judicial sensitivity in sexual assault cases. It reinforces the principle that a recording of victim’s credible testimony merits full consideration, irrespective of medical findings. Courts are cautioned against dismissing cases due to lack of visible injuries, a common ground for wrongful acquittals.
Consult a lawyer if you feel a credible claim is being undermined solely due to absence of physical injury or medical corroboration.
