(1.) Heard the learned counsel for the appellant and the learned State Public Prosecutor.
(2.) The criminal appeal is preferred by the accused against the conviction and sentence imposing sentence of death for an offence punishable under Sec. 302 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 (hereinafter referred to as ' the IPC- , for brevity), while also imposing lesser punishments for offences punishable under Sections 364, 366A, 201 and Sec. 376 of the IPC. The reference by the State is to seek confirmation of the death sentence imposed against the appellant.
(3.) The facts of the case as stated by the prosecution, are as follows: