RESHAM SINGH Vs. STATE OF PUNJAB

JUDGEMENT

(1.) The present petition lays challenge to judgment dated 4.9.2004 passed by the Additional Sessions Judge, Faridkot whereby appeal preferred by the petitioner against his conviction and sentence for offence under Section 409 of the Indian Penal Code (for short "IPC") has been dismissed while affirming findings recorded by the trial Court.

(2.) The facts relevant for disposal of the petition are that as per allegations, on 26.11.1993, Gurdev Singh Brar, Assistant Plant Protection Officer, Faridkot wrote letter Ex. PE to the Senior Superintendent of Police, Faridkot alleging that Resham Singh Beldar (petitioner herein) working with Agricultural Development Officer of Block, Faridkot committed misappropriation of an amount of Rs. 1,61,754/- handed over to him by Rattan Singh Sodhi, the Agricultural Development Officer for deposit in the treasury through challans, towards sale proceeds of the insecticides. An enquiry was conducted by the District Training Officer, Faridkot and Resham Singh was found guilty and it was revealed that he used to affix stamps from his custody and signatures on behalf of the bank employee on the challan forms and thereafter returned the challan forms in the office.

(3.) The trial court on appreciation of evidence adduced by the prosecution held the petitioner guilty for committing offence punishable under Section 409 IPC and sentenced accordingly. The matter was carried in appeal by the unsuccessful petitioner but the plea of the petitioner did not find favour with the Court in appeal and as a result, the findings of the trial Court were affirmed vide judgment impugned in the present proceedings.