LANGPOKLAKPAM KIRANJIT SINGH Vs. STATE OF MANIPUR

JUDGEMENT

(1.) Heard Mr. M. Gunedhor, learned counsel for the Petitioner; Heard also Mr. Athouba Khaidem, Learned P.P for the State.

(2.) The present petition has been filed challenging the order dated 20-07-2017 passed by the learned Special Judge, Imphal West, Manipur in Special Trial (POCSO) Case No. 7/2015/1/2015 by which the learned Special Judge rejected the prayer of the petitioner for supplying questions prepared by the Court for submission of written statement under section 313 cr.p.c.

(3.) The Petitioner was arrested in connection with FIR No. 31(10)WPS-I/W under section 4 of pocso act and is facing trial. The prosecution closed the evidence after examining 11(eleven) witnesses and thereafter, the Trial Court proceeded for examination of the accused petitioner under section 313 cr.p.c. The petitioner thereafter submitted an application praying for furnishing a copy of the questions prepared by the Trial Court prior to examination under section 313 cr.p.c. with prayer to permit the accused petitioner to file written statement in compliance of the provision under section 313(5) cr.p.c. so as to enable him to fully understand the questions and explain the incriminating materials against him. The Trial Court however, declined the request of the accused petitioner on the ground that the questions prepared were not yet final as the prosecution and the defense counsel are yet to suggest the relevant questions. However, the accused Petitioner was permitted to submit written statement and the fixed the case on 20.07.2017 for examination of the accused under section 313 cr.p.c.