SURINDER KUMAR Vs. STATE OF HARYANA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) THE petitioner was found in possession of 10 kg of opium when he was suspected and stopped by Inspector Jagjit Singh, along with other Police employees, on 3.3.1998, in the area of Bus Stand, Grand Truck Road, Ambala Cantonment. A sample of 100 gms. out of the whole opium was taken. After due investigation, the petitioner was challaned, charged, tried, convicted and sentenced to rigorous imprisonment for one year and a fine of Rs. 100/- and in default of payment of fine, he was to suffer further R.I. for one month.

(2.) THE petitioner preferred an appeal which was heard by the Additional Sessions Judge, Ambala and dismissed without interference in the matter of sentence and fine.

(3.) IN view of the facts, circumstances and the antecedents of the petitioner, narrated above, which are not contradicted by the learned counsel for the other side, I think that the petitioner, if given a chance to reclaim himself, he may become a useful member of the society. His remaining in jail with other criminals, who may be hardened criminals, will not be in the interest of the society also.