(1.) This appeal has been preferred by accused Anter Singh (hereinafter referred to as 'the accused') who faced trial along with 3 others for allegedly having committed homicidal death of one Hansraj (hereinafter referred to as 'the deceased'). While accused-appellant was charged for alleged commission of offence punishable under Sections 302, 302 read with Section 34 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 (in short 'the IPC') and Section 25(1)(a) and 27 of the Arms Act, 1959 (for short 'the Arms Act'), the other three accused were charged for commission of offence punishable under Sections 302 and 302 read with Section 34, I. P. C.
(2.) Trial Court found that the accused-appellant was guilty of the alleged offences punishable under Section 302, I. P. C. and Sections 25 and 27 of the Arms Act. Life imprisonment, one year and three years sentences respectively were imposed for the three offences. The other accused persons were found to be not guilty. The High Court affirmed the conviction and sentence.
(3.) Prosecution version as unfolded during trial is as follows :