GIRDHARI LAL Vs. STATE OF RAJASTHAN

JUDGEMENT

(1.) Girdhari Lal, the appellant herein, was put to trial before learned Additional Sessions Judge Jhunjhunu, who vide judgment dated 2.8.2000 convicted the appellant under Sec. 304-B I.P.C. and sentenced him to undergo life imprisonment.

(2.) The informant Jugal Kishore Soni (PW-1) submitted a written report at Police Station Bagad on 11.8.1998 with the averments that his daughter Babita (since deceased) was married to appellant Girdhari Lal four years back. Soon after the marriage Babita was harassed for the demand of dowry. Earlier also the in-laws of Babita made attempt to sat her ablaze and neighbours rescued her. The in-laws confessed their guilt and assured not to harass Babita again but she was burnt to death on 10.8.1998. On that report the case under Sections 304-B and 498-A I.P.C. was registered and investigation commenced. After usual investigation charge sheet was filed. In due course the-case came up for trial before the learned Additional Sessions Judge, Jhunjhunu. Charge under Sec. 304-B I.P.C. was framed against the appellant, who denied the charge and claimed trial. The prosecution in support of its case examined as many as 9 witnesses. In the explanation under Sec. 313 Crimial P.C. the appellant claimed innocence. Two witnesses in defence were examined. Learned trial Judge on hearing final submissions convicted and sentenced the appellant as indicated herein above.

(3.) We have heard learned counsel for the parties and with their assistance weighed the material on record.