AMRISH PAL Vs. STATE OF PUNJAB

JUDGEMENT

(1.) The instant appeal has been preferred by the accused (hereinafter referred to as Appellant), challenging the judgment dtd. 13/5/2008 passed by the Special Judge, Bathinda whereby the appellant was convicted and sentenced as follows:-

(2.) The case of the prosecution in a nutshell revolves around the allegation that on 8th of March, 2005, the appellant, who was serving as Patwari, demanded and accepted an illegal gratification of Rs.600.00 from the complainant, Jagsir Singh, for entering the mutation of redemption of mortgage in the revenue records.

(3.) The complainant, Jagsir Singh, had previously mortgaged his land measuring 23 Kanals and 6 Marlas to secure a loan from the bank. Upon repayment of the loan on 22nd of February, 2005, the bank issued "No Objection Certificates" (Exhibit PN and Exhibit PO). When the complainant approached the appellant to record the mutation of redemption, the appellant initially delayed the process and, on 7/3/2005, demanded Rs.1000.00 as a bribe, which was later negotiated to Rs.600.00.