Legal valuation of accomplices deposition in criminal jurisprudence and the essentiality of independent corroboration.

Abstract

The following research project is related to the importance of Independent corroboration of evidence with an accomplice’s evidence. It is highlight that the Qanoon-e-Shahadat Order 1984 states than an accomplice is a competent witness against the other co-accused and that his testimony cannot be discarded on the ground that there is no independent corroboration to the evidence produced. In the following research different legal regimes have been discussed where independent corroboration is insisted upon. It is also pertinent to mention that under Islamic criminal justice system an evidence put forth by an accomplice is totally reject and in its land mark decision the honorable Federal Shariat Court has not only termed it to be un-Islamic but has also declared it null and void. Hence under different legal regimes and theories it is established that Independent corroboration is not only necessary but if its not there then it will defeated the purpose of justice.