Delhi APO 2005

Which one of the following statements is correct? The 'alibi' under section 11 of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872 is decided on the basis of

Verified Answer
A. preponderance of probability
B. preponderance of probability beyond reasonable doubt
C. preponderance of possibility beyond reasonable doubt
D. preponderance of higher probability or improbability as well as beyond reasonable doubt

Explanation:

The burden of proving an alibi lies on the accused. In criminal law, the standard of proof for the accused to establish a defense is generally on a 'preponderance of probabilities'. While a successful alibi must be so convincing as to make the prosecution's case impossible (thereby creating a reasonable doubt), the standard for the defense to prove its own facts is not 'beyond reasonable doubt'. Section 11 itself refers to facts making the existence or non-existence of a fact 'highly probable or improbable', which aligns with a higher degree of probability.