Intent

Posted on by Rudrajyoti Nath Ray

Chandrasekhara Aiyar J in Basdev v. State of Pepsu, AIR 1956 SC 488 observed, “demarcating line between ‘knowledge’ and ‘intention’ is no doubt thin.” Das Gupta J in Smt. Mathri v. State of Punjab, AIR 1964 SC 986 explained ‘intent’. It is derived from ‘archery’ or ‘aim’. It can only be deduced or inferred. Some relevant considerations are, nature of weapon used; places where injuries were inflicted and nature of injuries caused.

It would be proper to hold, ‘intent’ and ‘knowledge’ cannot be equated with each other; ‘intention’ requires something more than mere foresight of consequences; it requires a purposeful doing of a thing to achieve a particular end.

– Hon’ble Justice J.B. Pardiwala, Anbazhagan v. State, [Criminal Appeal No. 2043 of 2023].

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'The Last Word' seeks to include not only wise and witty sayings but also curiosities. These words are not of obligation but of delight. I am not alone in my refusal to believe, law is tedious. For all who escaped these percipient eyes, mea culpa maxima. History, after all, has many cunning passages, contrived corridors and issues.