Fair trial is the hallmark of criminal procedure. Fair trial contemplates justice to both the parties, the victims and the accused.
Doubtless, the petitioner in the present case had ample opportunity to cross-examine the aforesaid witness but he did not utilise the same. Be that as it may, this Court cannot lose sight of the fact that a fair trial is the hallmark of criminal procedure. It entails not only the rights of the victims but also the interest of the accused. It is the duty of every Court to ensure that fair and proper opportunities are granted to the accused for just decision of the case. In furtherance of the above, adducing of evidence by the accused in support of his defence is also a valuable right and allowing the same is in the interest of justice.