Meaning and Concept of Motive in Law
Motive refers to the reason or intention that prompts a person to commit a particular act. In criminal jurisprudence, motive explains why an offence was committed, though it is distinct from intention. While intention relates to the mental element necessary to constitute a crime, motive provides the background or driving force behind that intention. Motive is not an essential element of a crime, but it often plays an important role in understanding human conduct. Law recognizes that crimes are usually committed for some motive such as revenge, greed, jealousy, or fear, but proof of motive is not always mandatory for conviction.
Legal Position and Statutory Provisions
Under Indian law, motive becomes relevant mainly as a supporting or corroborative fact. Section 8 of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872 makes motive relevant as it explains the conduct of the accused. However, absence of motive does not necessarily weaken the prosecution case if there is strong direct or circumstantial evidence. Courts have consistently held that when evidence is clear and convincing, motive becomes insignificant. Conversely, when the case is based on circumstantial evidence, proof of motive assumes greater importance to establish a complete chain of circumstances.
Importance and Limitations of Motive
Motive helps courts assess the probability of guilt and understand the mental background of the accused. It is particularly useful in cases of murder, conspiracy, and circumstantial evidence. Motive strengthens the prosecution case but does not replace proof. A person may commit a crime without a clear or apparent motive, and sometimes motives remain hidden. Therefore, motive alone cannot be the basis of conviction. Courts treat motive as an aid to evidence, not a substitute for it. Thus, motive is relevant but not decisive.
Real-Time Illustration
A real-time example can be seen in murder cases based on circumstantial evidence. If the accused had a long-standing property dispute with the deceased, the motive becomes relevant under Section 8 of the Evidence Act. However, if eyewitnesses clearly prove the act of murder, the prosecution need not establish motive separately. This shows that motive supports the case but is not compulsory when direct evidence exists.
Mnemonic for Easy Recall
A useful mnemonic to remember the relevance of motive is “WHY”.
W – Why the act was done
H – Helps explain conduct
Y – Yet not essential
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