The right to a fair trial includes the right to present one's own evidence, including examination of defense witnesses.

ORDER This Criminal Original Petition has been filed challenging the order dated

21.03.2025 passed by the learned XV Metropolitan Magistrate, George Town, Chennai, in C.C.No.1353 of 2022, by which the petitioner’s request to examine his wife as a defense witness was rejected.

2. The petitioner is facing trial in connection with Crime No.329 of 2022.

After the closure of prosecution evidence and examination of the petitioner under Section 313 Cr.P.C., the petitioner filed a memo dated 18.03.2025 expressing his intention to examine his wife as a defense witness. However, the said request was rejected and the case was directed to be posted for arguments.

3. The petitioner submits that he had earlier filed petitions to recall PW-1 and to produce certain documents, which were also dismissed. It is further contended that the trial has proceeded in a mechanical manner, and adequate opportunity was not afforded to defend the case. The grievance of the petitioner is that despite specific intent to lead defense evidence, the trial Court hastened to conclude the proceedings.

4. On perusal of the materials and the sequence of events, it appears that though the petitioner had earlier cross-examined the witnesses, the opportunity to lead defense evidence, especially to examine his wife, ought not to have been denied, more so when the right to a fair trial includes the right to present one’s own evidence.

5. In such circumstances, and in the interest of justice, the order dated

21.03.2025 is set aside. The trial Court is directed to afford one final opportunity to the petitioner to examine his wife as a defense witness. The Court shall thereafter proceed to conclude the trial in accordance with law. Both parties and their counsel are directed to extend full cooperation for early disposal of the matter without seeking unnecessary adjournments.

6. With the above observations, this Criminal Original Petition stands allowed.

Consequently, connected miscellaneous petition is closed.