Appeals Court Upholds Conviction Despite Recanted Testimony
In a ruling that has sparked controversy, an appeals court upheld the conviction of a father accused of shaking his baby to death—even after the medical examiner who testified at trial recanted. Legal experts argue the decision highlights systemic flaws in addressing wrongful convictions tied to disputed forensic science.
Case Background: Reliance on Shaken Baby Syndrome
The defendant, Rajesh Verma (name changed for legal reasons), was convicted in 2018 of second-degree murder in the death of his 6-month-old daughter. The prosecution’s case hinged on testimony from Dr. Anil Kapoor, who initially stated the infant’s injuries—brain bleeding and retinal hemorrhages—were definitive signs of Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS).
However, in 2022, Dr. Kapoor reversed his position, citing advancements in medical research. He acknowledged that Priya’s symptoms could have resulted from accidental trauma or undiagnosed medical conditions.
Court Rejects New Evidence, Upholds Conviction
The appeals court ruled that Dr. Kapoor’s recantation did not meet the legal threshold to overturn the verdict. The court emphasized that the original jury had sufficient evidence to convict, despite the evolving medical consensus on SBS.
Legal advocates condemned the decision, calling it a failure to correct potential injustices. “Courts often demand near-impossible proof of innocence post-conviction,” said Advocate Meena Sharma, a wrongful conviction specialist.
Growing Doubts Over Shaken Baby Syndrome
SBS has faced increasing skepticism in forensic medicine. Once considered undeniable proof of abuse, research now suggests symptoms like brain bleeding can stem from accidents, infections, or genetic disorders. Several convictions have been overturned worldwide as scientific understanding shifts.
In India, where forensic standards are still developing, critics warn against relying on outdated theories. “Judicial systems must adapt as medicine evolves,” said pediatric neurologist Dr. Sanjay Patel.
Family and Advocates Demand Justice
Verma’s wife, Neha, insists her husband is innocent, pointing to Priya’s prior health issues. “The doctor admitted he might have been wrong—why won’t the court listen?” she said. Advocacy groups, including Innocence Network India, are pushing for reviews of similar SBS-related cases.
Next Steps: A Supreme Court Appeal?
Verma’s legal team plans to appeal to the Supreme Court, challenging the weight of recanted medical testimony. The case could set a precedent for how courts handle evolving forensic evidence.
For now, the ruling leaves Verma imprisoned—a stark example of the legal system’s struggle to reconcile science and justice.
— NextMinuteNews
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