REGISTRAR GENERAL, HIGH COURT OF KARNATAKA Vs. DODDAHANUMA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) The case of the prosecution is that on 7.11.2000, in the afternoon, accused Nos.1 to 5, with a common intention to commit murder and dacoity, armed with deadly weapons, entered the first floor of the house No.30, 7th Cross, 6th Main of Agrahara Dasarahalli, Magadi Main Road, belonging to P.W.1. They committed murder of Smt.Geetha, who was alone in the house by stabbing her neck, back, stomach and other parts of the body. They robbed the golden mangalya chain, golden mati (earrings) and other golden ornaments from her, as well as a saree and shirt.

(2.) A complaint was lodged by P.W. 1 and a case was registered in Crime No. 438 of 2000 for the offences punishable under sections 302 and 396 read with sections 34 of I.P.C. Investigation was taken up. The charge-sheet was filed. The accused pleaded not guilty. The case was set-down for trial.

(3.) In order to prove its case, the prosecution examined in all 15 witnesses and marked 24 Exhibits, along with 17 Material Objects. One Exhibit was marked on behalf of the defence. By the impugned judgment, the Trial Court convicted accused Nos. 1 to 5 for the offence punishable under section 396 of I.P.C. and sentenced them to death, along with a fine of Rs. 5,000/- each.