RAMESH PRASAD Vs. STATE OF MADHYA PRADESH

JUDGEMENT

(1.) The appellant/accused has challenged his conviction and sentence in this appeal being aggrieved by the judgment dated 24.02.1995, passed by IInd Additional Sessions Judge Mandla, in S.T. No.98/93, whereby the appellant has been convicted for offences punishable under Sections 302 and 201 of the IPC and sentenced for life and three years R.I. with fine of Rs.500/- respectively with default stipulation.

(2.) As per the prosecution story, the incident took place in the intervening night of 25th and 26th April, 1993 at village Makke, District Mandla. Deceased Urmila Bai aged about eight years was residing with the appellant and was sleeping with her Bua Mantura Bai in the house. On the next day, her dead body was found in the field of Janghela. She had sustained fatal injuries. On the information, Police Station, Nainpur registered merg. Then, FIR has been lodged against the appellant and other accused persons for offences punishable under Sections 302 and 201 of the IPC. Charge sheet was filed against them.

(3.) In the trial Court, appellant abjured his guilt. He pleaded innocence and stated that he has been falsely implicated in this case. After recording the evidence of witnesses, the trial Court found only the appellant guilty for committing murder of his step daughter/deceased Urmila by immolating (Bali) in front of a temple. He was convicted for offences punishable under Sections 302 and 201 of the IPC and sentenced as mentioned above, whereas other accused persons have been acquitted from the charges levelled against them.