Attempt of Suicide (sec.309 IPC) and Abetment of Suicide (sec.306 IPC) often becomes a Dilemma for the Medicolegist - A Case Report

Suicide (self annihilation) is a common incident affecting the people of all classes throughout the globe. . It is a peculiar crime where both the accused and victim is same person. Attempt to suicide and abetment of suicide is punishable under Sec. 309 and Sec.306 of Indian Penal Code. Medicolegists should be very cautious regarding the opinion while dealing such cases because many times the exact cause and circumstance of the incident remains concealed. Thorough investigation, meticulous examination including visit to the scene of crime is utmost essential to take correct decision to avoid miscarriage of justice. Such a situation arose when a young married male person was admitted in unconscious state in hospital with history of attempt of suicide by hanging. The case was booked under Sec.309 of Indian Penal Code by the police. But presence of some unexplainable mysterious mechanical injuries over his body found during medicolegal autopsy following his death after eight (8) days put the forensic experts in a dilemma to rethink the background. This interesting case report is depicted here for better understanding of such similar incidences.