R v Dudley and Stephens (1884)

R v Dudley and Stephens is a landmark case in the English common law, but its reasoning was later adopted by the Indian courts, particularly in the context of IPC Section 300 (murder). In this case, four sailors were stranded in a lifeboat with limited food and water. To save themselves, they decided to kill and eat the youngest crew member. The two survivors were later prosecuted for murder. The court ruled that their actions were justified as a last resort to save their lives.

Agree, I think. The case is an extreme example of the doctrine of 'necessity,' which allows individuals to take actions that would otherwise be considered a crime if it's essential to prevent a greater harm. This concept is relevant in Indian criminal law, particularly in cases where a person is forced to choose between two evils.