The principle of "presumed innocent until proven guilty" is a fundamental concept in the justice system, which holds that an individual accused of a crime is considered innocent until the prosecution can prove beyond a reasonable doubt that they are guilty.
This principle is based on the idea that it is better to err on the side of caution and acquit an innocent person than to convict an innocent person. It is also seen as a protection against government abuse of power, ensuring that individuals are not unfairly punished or subjected to unjustified persecution.
In practice, this principle means that the prosecution bears the burden of proving their case, and that the defendant has the right to remain silent and not incriminate themselves. It also means that the defendant is entitled to a fair trial, with the opportunity to present evidence and challenge the evidence presented by the prosecution.
While this principle is enshrined in law, in practice it is not always adhered to, particularly in cases where the accused is a member of a marginalized group, or in cases where the public perception of the crime is particularly heinous. However, the principle remains an important cornerstone of the justice system, serving to protect the rights and freedoms of individuals accused of crimes.