STATE OF HIMACHAL PRADESH Vs. LEKH RAJ

JUDGEMENT

(1.) THIS appeal by the State is directed against the judgment dated 31.12.2002 delivered by the learned Sessions Judge, Hamirpur, whereby he acquitted the accused of having committed offences punishable under Sections 306 and 498 -A read with Section 34 IPC.

(2.) THE undisputed facts are that Santosh Kumari (deceased) was married to Lekh Raj, respondent No.1. Julfi Ram and Vidya Devi, respondent No.2 and 3, respectively, were the father -in -law and mother -in -law of the deceased. Reena Devi, respondent No.4, was the sister of Lekh Raj i.e. the sister -in -law of the deceased. It is not disputed that Santosh Kumari committed suicide by consuming poison on 2nd August, 2001 in her matrimonial house at village Ghumarun. PW -1 Shri Beli Ram, father of the deceased, informed the police telephonically that he had received information from his son -in -law that Santosh Kumari had consumed poison and had expired. On the basis of this telephonic information daily diary report No.12 Ext.PW -16/A was recorded.

(3.) WE have heard Mr. Rajesh Mandhotra, learned Deputy Advocate General, on behalf of the State and Ms. Divya Sood, learned counsel for the accused.