PLEA OF INSANITY AS A DEFENSE IN CRIMINAL CASES: AN UPDATE

Mc'Naughten Rule is die commonest formulation for plea of insanity in most countries. Although assessment of the mental state at the time of offence is difficult, few instruments have been devised for this purpose. In the USA, efforts are being made to abolish the insanity defense and in the United Kingdom, amendments in the provisions of insanity defense have been proposed. The authors have stressed the need for some changes in the relevant sections of Indian Penal Code to increase the credibility of Psychiatric testimony in such cases.