LACHHMAN DASS Vs. STATE OF PUNJAB

JUDGEMENT

(1.) LACHHMAN Dass, Harbhajan Singh, Dhan Kaur and Gurdev Kaur appellants stand convicted under Section 498-A, Indian Penal Code. They have been sentenced to two years R.I. and a fine of Rs. 500/- or in default of payment of fine to undergo further R.I. for six months each. They have, however, been acquitted of the charge under Section 306 Indian Penal Code. They appeal.

(2.) SURJIT Kaur deceased was also known as Rani. She was married to Harbhajan Singh accused about three years prior to the present occurrence. Two children were born out of this wedlock. After about one year of the marriage, the accused started maltreating the deceased on account of inadequate dowry. At the time of birth of daughter of the deceased, the accused had remarked that her parents had not brought anything. They also used to say that she was not of fair complexion. The deceased always complained of maltreatment by the accused.

(3.) DR . Jaswinder Singh PW1 conducted autopsy on the dead body of Surjit Kaur on 22.2.1985 at 11.30 a.m. Death was opined to be due to asphyxia as a result of drawing. The time that elapsed between injuries and death was stated to be less than fine minutes and between death and post-mortem within 36 hours. After necessary investigation, the accused were challaned and committed.