Law: Pakistan Penal Code, 1860

Section: 324, 109, 148, 149, 337-A(i), 337-F(i), 337-L(2), 337-F(v), 337-F(vi), 354, 337A(ii), 337A(i), 337F(iv), 341, 148, 149

Law: Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898

Section: 497(2), 161

Tagline : (1) The value of cross versions recorded for one and the same incident with conflicting and distinct accounts. (2) Case of further inquiry in the cross version cases and concession of bail.

Summary

The Supreme Court of Pakistan allowed the criminal petition, converted it into an appeal, and confirmed pre-arrest bail for the petitioners in a cross-version case arising from conflicting FIRs registered on the same day for the same incident, holding that the matter required further inquiry to determine the aggressor.-

Core Points

• Petitioners faced recall of ad-interim bail by Lahore High Court; delay of 53 days condoned in interest of justice.
• Incident involved armed attack allegations under PPC sections 324, 109, etc., in FIR No.884/2024, countered by cross-version FIR from Khurram Hayat claiming attack by complainant's side.
• Cross-versions created reasonable scepticism on guilt, necessitating further inquiry under Section 497(2) Cr.P.C. rather than deeper evidence appreciation at bail stage.
• Bail confirmed tentatively, with trial court directed for expeditious proceedings; cancellation possible if misused.--

Legal Provisions

Order