SITAL SINGH Vs. STATE OF PUNJAB

JUDGEMENT

(1.) This appeal by special leave is directed against the confirming judgment of the Punjab and Haryana High Court upholding the conviction of the appellant for offences punishable under Sections 302, and 324 of the Penal Code and sentences of imprisonment for life and a fine of Rs. 2,000/-, in default, rigorous imprisonment for two years and a fine of Rs. 500/- with a default sentence of rigorous imprisonment for six months in three sets with a direction that the sentences of imprisonment would run concurrently.

(2.) One Gurdial Singh and his three sons - Sital Singh, Avtar Singh and Narvail Singh were put on trial on the charge of murder of one Baldev Singh and for causing injuries to several others. Prosecution alleged that at about 8 p.m. on March 27, 1980, Harbhajan Singh (P. W. 3), his two sons - Baldev Singh (deceased) and Balvinder Singh, and some others who were near the tubewell were returning to their respective houses. On the way near the village Primary School, the accused persons who were armed with fire arms and a spear met them. Avtar Singh started abusing Harbhajan Singh for helping one Balkar Singh in getting released on bail in a proceeding under Section 107 of the Criminal P. C. Mutual threats followed and soon Sital Singh fired a shot at Baldev Singh which hit him below the abdomen. Avtar Singh fired from his pistol which hit Baldev Singh on the back and he fell down, Gurdial and Sital fired from their guns and injured many others. Baldev died on the way to hospital.

(3.) Defence was one of complete denial of the charges. The trial Court acquitted Narvail Singh on benefit of doubt and convicted the three others under Sections 302 and 324, I. P. C. On appeal, the High Court acquitted Gurdial Singh by doubting his presence at the incident and acquitted Avtar Singh in respect of the charge under Section 302, I. P. C. The appeal of Sital Singh was dismissed and he has come up to this Court challenging his conviction.