(Sanjay Karol, J.) (Oral) - The present appeal arises out of the judgment dated 10th January, 2001 passed by Judicial Magistrate, Ist Class, Kasauli at Solan in case No. 102/2 of 1996 titled as State v. Balak Ram acquitting the accused of the charged offence under Sections 279, 337 and 338 of the Indian Penal Code.

2.As per the case of the prosecution, on 28th January, 1996 at about 11.30 a.m. vehicle No. HP-14-1457 being driven by Raj Kumar (PW-5) was on its way from Solan towards Barog. After reaching at a place known as Doridiwal (Near Congress Bhavan, Solan), bus bearing No. HP-14-3537 being driven by accused at a high speed came and hit the vehicle driven by Raj Kumar (PW-5). The accident occurred due to rash and negligent driving of the accused as a result of which passengers suffered injuries. The matter was reported with the Police by Shri Bhag Chand (PW-9), Cleaner of the bus driven by PW-5. His statement (Ext.PW-9/A) under Section 154 Cr.P.C. was recorded by the Police. Based on the same, FIR No. 13/96 (Ext.PW-8/A) was registered with Police Station, Solan under Sections 279 and 337 I.P.C. The police machinery was set into motion and Kulwant Singh (PW-11)