STATE OF KARNATAKA Vs. S RAVIKUMAR

JUDGEMENT

(1.) STATE is in appeal against acquittal of the respondents for the offence punishable under Sections 498-A, 506 read with Sec.34, I.P.C.

(2.) PROSECUTION case is, PW1-Jyothi was married to the 1st respondent-S.Ravikumar. His parents, viz., Sannashetti (father) and Rajamma (mother) demanded and received Rs.30,000/- in cash and 65 grams of gold as dowry. They were not satisfied. They continued to raise demand, asking her to get Rs.20,000/- as additional dowry. Since she could not get it from her parents, 1st respondent is alleged to have assaulted her. Other accused also joined him in perpetrating physical and mental cruelty. In this regard, she alleged 1st respondent would insert a stick in her mouth with a view to compel her to yield to his demand. Such acts became intolerable and she informed her parents. Such harassment continued uninterrupted and ultimately she lodged complaint. During investigation, Ravikumar and his parents came to be arrested. They pleaded not guilty and were put to trial during which prosecution examined in all 11 witnesses and relied on15 documents.

(3.) HEARD Sri Raja Subrahmanya Bhat, learned HCGP, and Sri B.A.Somanna representing the respondents.