The Supreme Court recently clarified that absconding by itself does not prove a person’s guilt. However, it is a relevant fact under Section 8 of the Indian Evidence Act, 1872, because it shows the conduct of the accused and may suggest a guilty mind. The Court emphasized that even an innocent person might run away out of fear, but such behaviour cannot be ignored and should be considered with other evidence. Case law: Chetan Vs State of Karnataka CRIMINAL APPEAL No.1568 OF 2013