RAJU SANTARAM KAMBLE vs STATE OF KARNATAKA — Crl.A. No. 605/2002

Case Summary: Raju Santaram Kamble v. State of Karnataka Outcome: The Supreme Court allowed the appeal and acquitted Raju Santaram Kamble of rape charges under Section 376 IPC, granting him benefit of doubt. The Court set aside the High Court's judgment that had confirmed the trial court's conviction and 7-year sentence. Reasoning: The Court found the victim's testimony inconsistent and unreliable. Critical evidence contradicted the prosecution's case: medical examinations revealed no injuries, no semen traces on the victim's garments, and an intact hymen. The victim's account was uncorroborated by her father's cross-examination testimony and medical doctors' findings, who reported the victim was "clean and neat" with no contusions or struggle marks. Disposition: The appellant's bail bond was discharged, and he was released. This case analysis is maintained by casestatus.in based on publicly available court records.