MD. YOUSUF Vs. STATE OF A.P.

JUDGEMENT

(1.) THE sole accused in S.C. No.557 of 2008 on the file of the VI Additional District & Sessions Judge, Medak at Siddipet, is the appellant herein. He was alleged to have harassed his wife Rajiya Sulthana Begum for dowry and murdered her. The trial Court convicted him for the offences punishable under Section 498 -A and 302 IPC. Sentence of rigorous imprisonment for three years and fine of Rs.500/ -, in default to suffer simple imprisonment for three months was imposed for the offence punishable under Section 498 -A IPC and sentence of imprisonment for life and fine of Rs.2,000/ -, in default to undergo simple imprisonment for six months was imposed for the offence punishable under Section 302 IPC. Both the sentences were directed to run concurrently.

(2.) THE complaint Ex.P -14 about the incident was submitted by PW -1 - father of the deceased. He stated that he has three daughters and three sons, the marriage of his second daughter Rajiya Sulthana Begum was performed about 18 years ago with the accused, and they were blessed with two daughters and a son. It was alleged that the accused became addicted to liquor for the past one year and used to harass Rajiya Sulthana physically and mentally, demanding money, which she earned by rolling Beedies. He further alleged that the accused who was working as Driver on a Truck remained in the house for three days preceding the incident, and at 1.00 p.m., on 11.06.2008 he picked up quarrel with his wife, tortured her and ultimately poured kerosene and set her ablaze. The incident is said to have been informed to him by his daughter herself and that she was struggling for life.

(3.) THE prosecution examined PWs.1 to 14 and filed Exs.P -1 to P -16. MOs.1 to 4 were taken on record. No evidence was adduced by the defence.