LAXMAN SOREN Vs. STATE OF ORISSA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) The present Criminal Appeal is directed against the judgment and order dtd. 28/3/2006 passed by the learned Adhoc Additional District & Sessions Judge (F.T.C.), Baripada in S.T. Case No.11/147 of 2004, arising out of G.R. Case No.702 of 2003, whereby the appellant was convicted under Sec. 354 of the IPC and sentenced to undergo rigorous imprisonment for one year along with fine of Rs.500.00 (Rupees Five Hundred), in default to undergo R.I. for 3 months.

(2.) The present appeal has been pending since 2006. When the matter was called for hearing continuously, none appeared for the appellant. Therefore, on 17/4/2026, this Court requested Mr. Tushar Kumar Mishra, learned counsel, who was present in Court to assist the Court as Amicus Curiae. He has readily accepted the same and after obtaining the entire record assisted the Court very effectively. This Court records appreciation for the meaningful assistance rendered by Mr. Mishra.

(3.) Heard Mr. Tushar Kumar Mishra, learned Amicus Curiae for the appellant and Mr. A.K. Apat, learned Additional Government Advocate for the State.