A is tried for murder of B. Which one of the following is NOT a relevant fact?

Correct option is B

The correct option is (b) B was a drug addict.

Explanation:

In a murder trial, a fact is considered "relevant" if it helps establish a motive, preparation, or conduct related to the crime. Under Section 6 of the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), 2023 (which corresponds to Section 8 of the old Indian Penal Code/Evidence Act), the relevancy of facts is determined by their connection to the "fact in issue" (the murder).

• Option (a), (c), and (d) are relevant: These establish a clear motive for the murder. If B was aware of A's previous crime and used that information to extort money or threaten A, it provides a logical reason why A would want to kill B to silence him or end the extortion. In fact, this is a classic illustration used in legal textbooks and the statute itself (Illustration 'a' to Section 6 of BSA).
• Option (b) is NOT relevant: The mere fact that the victim (B) was a drug addict does not, by itself, explain why A would murder him. A person's general character, habits, or lifestyle choices (like being an addict) are generally considered irrelevant in a criminal trial unless they directly form part of the transaction or explain a specific motive/conduct related to the accused.

Information Booster:

Section 6 of BSA 2023 (Motive, Preparation, and Conduct): This section is crucial for circumstantial evidence. It states that any fact is relevant if it shows:

1. Motive: The "why" behind the crime (e.g., revenge, greed, fear of disclosure).
2. Preparation: Steps taken to commit the crime (e.g., buying a weapon, scouting the location).
3. Conduct: Behavior before or after the crime (e.g., the accused absconding, destroying evidence, or the victim's behavior influencing the accused).