Section 265-K of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) of Pakistan grants the court the authority to acquit an accused person at any stage of the trial if the court believes there is no probability of conviction based on the available evidence. This provision is intended to prevent unnecessary prolongation of a trial where it is clear that the prosecution has not produced enough evidence to warrant a conviction.
Key Features:
- Acquittal at Any Stage: The court can use this section to acquit an accused at any stage of the trial, even before the defense begins its case.
- Insufficient Evidence: The court must be convinced that there is no probability of conviction due to a lack of sufficient evidence presented by the prosecution.
- Prevention of Frivolous Prosecution: Section 265-K is aimed at preventing frivolous or groundless prosecution from proceeding to full trial, saving time and resources.
This provision empowers the court to act in the interest of justice when the evidence does not support the charges. However, it is applied with caution to ensure that no miscarriage of justice occurs by prematurely acquitting an accused person who may otherwise be guilty.