Multiple choice

Directions: Go through the problem and encircle the most appropriate answer.

During a wrestling competition organized in Chanduram Akhada in New Delhi between X and Y, two famous wrestlers. Y died as a result of an injury sustained during the wrestling bout. X and Y were not enemies of each other, but both of them were ambitious to achieve the highest title in wrestling, namely, 'Hind Kesari'. There was some competitive spirit between them. A case is field against X for causing the death of Y. In the court the referee stated that X and Y were wrestling in the usual manner.

  1. X is not guilty of causing Y's death because he did not intend to kill Y and that there is always some risk involved in wrestling, and that Y had voluntarily undertaken that risk.

  2. X is guilty of causing Y's death because he should have wrestled with necessary care and attention so as to avoid a serious injury to his opponent and thereby endanger his life.

  3. X is guilty because perhaps he wanted to eliminate his rival in the sport of wrestling so that he could easily get the highest award of 'Hind Kesari'.

  4. X is not guilty because Y might not have taken proper precaution to protect himself during the wrestling competition.

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

X is not guilty because death during a consensual sporting activity like wrestling does not amount to criminal liability when both parties voluntarily participate knowing the risks. There was no intent to cause death or injury beyond what's normal in the sport. The principle of 'volenti non fit injuria' (consent to harm) applies here - Y voluntarily undertook the known risk inherent in wrestling.