Is a confession made to police in Imphal admissible in court?

Detailed Legal Analysis

A confession made to the police in Imphal is not admissible in court under Section 25 and 26 of the Evidence Act, as reinforced by the Manipur Rent Control Act 2013. The Manipur High Court has consistently held that confessions made during police custody are inherently unreliable and often obtained under coercion.

Only a confession made before a magistrate under Section 164 CrPC is admissible, provided it is voluntary and recorded in the manner prescribed. The magistrate must ensure that the confession is not made under any threat or inducement from the police.

If it is found that a confession was obtained through torture, the Manipur High Court can order an inquiry and exclude the confession from evidence. Any violation of these safeguards is a ground for acquittal and can be raised during trial.